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Micronutrient deficiency is wide spread and highly affects morbidity, mortality, and well-being of human beings. Micronutrient deficiency gradually manifests into diseases, which effects pathophysiology directly or indirectly. There is an imprecision in the diagnosis of micronutrient deficiency because of two causes; the selection of the standard biomarker and the diagnostic technique used. In appropriate diagnosis could increase the severity of the disorder. Instead of a single a combination of biomarkers can give more stringent results for micronutrient testing. Several traditional analytical techniques are used for diagnosis but HPLC, ELISA & LCMS/MS are most sensitive and reliable methods used by CLSIA-certified labs. However, these techniques require well-equipped, centralized laboratory facilities. The diagnostic era moves toward the Point of Care Testing (POCT), a boon in emerging diagnostics, breaking all paradigms of traditional analytical techniques. POCT led us toward the development of biosensors, which encompasses many techniques like paper-based sensors, microfluidic chip, wearable devices, and smartphone-assisted diagnostics, which become more popular diagnostic tools. This outlook summarizes the micronutrients like vitamins A, B5, B6, B7, B9, B12 C, D, and E and Minerals like iron, calcium, zinc, magnesium, and sodium; along with its biomarkers, analytical techniques, and point of care innovation in micronutrients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One of the major impacts of climate change in the agricultural sector relates to changes in the suitability of areas that are used for planting crops. Since peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) is one of the most important sources of protein, an assessment of the potential shifts in peanut crop planting areas is critical. In this study, we evaluated the effects of climate change on the potential distribution of peanut crops in Australia. The current and potential future distributions of peanut crops were modeled using Species Distribution Models (SDMs) of CLIMatic indEX (CLIMEX). The future potential peanut crop distributions in Australia for 2030, 2050, 2070, and 2100 were modeled by employing CSIRO-Mk3.0 and MIROC-H Global Climate Models (GCMs) under SRES A2 climate change scenarios from CliMond 10' database. The results indicated an increase in unsuitable areas for peanut cultivation in Australia throughout the projected years for the two GCMs. The CSIRO-Mk3.0 projection of unsuitable areas in 2100 was higher (i.e. 76% of the Australian continent) than the MIROC-H projection (i.e. 48% of the Australian continent). It was found that the projected increase in dry stress in the future could cause limitations in areas that are currently suitable for peanut crop cultivation. Looking into the future suitability of existing peanut cultivation areas, both GCMs agreed that some areas will become unsuitable, while they disagreed with the suitability of other areas. However, they agreed on the important point that only a small number of existing peanut cultivation areas would still be suitable in the future. Using CLIMEX, the present study has confirmed the effects of climate change on the shifts in areas suitable for peanut cultivation in the future, and thus may provide valuable information relevant to the long-term planning of peanut cultivation in Australia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Currently, phylloremediation has emerged as a highly effective method for eliminating air pollutants, particularly polyaromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). When PAHs accumulate on the phyllosphere, they significantly impact the fungal communities residing on leaf surfaces. This study aimed to investigate how pollution distribution patterns affect the diversity and PAH-degrading abilities of phyllosphere fungi, alongside identifying suitable mathematical models for PAH degradation. Leaf samples from two locations, Maradana and Sapugaskanda, were identified as having the highest PAH concentrations through principal component analysis. The fungal diversity in these highly contaminated regions was varied, with dominant species exhibiting greater PAH-degrading capabilities than those in less polluted areas. Thirty-five morphologically different epiphytic fungal strains were isolated on Potato Dextrose Agar (PDA) medium using the sample leaf wash. Two different fungal strains were selected as the best PAH degraders among those 35 different strains. These fungal strains were identified as Trichoderma harzianum P4M-16, and Fusarium solani P11M-46 based on ITS sequence data. Notably, these fungal species were more prevalent in highly polluted urban areas compared to less contaminated sites. High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) analysis revealed that these two fungal species degrade PAHs more efficiently than others. Their kinetics assays demonstrated alignment with four degradation models when breaking down phenanthrene, naphthalene, pyrene, and anthracene. Scanning electron microscopy images showed that these fungi function as endophytes, extending their mycelium into the core leaf tissue layers beyond the epidermis. Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GCMS) analysis indicated that F. solani P11M-46 produced non-toxic byproducts during the breakdown of phenanthrene and anthracene, confirming their eco-friendly nature. Overall, our findings suggest the promising potential of using phyllosphere fungi in bioremediation processes for environmental pollutants such as PAHs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The phytochemical compounds in the leaf extracts of Castanopsis indica and C. tribuloides were evaluated, and their antioxidant and antimicrobial potential were assessed. The TPC was found to be 193.12 and 159.49 mg GAE g−1 dry weight, and the TFC was 108.12 and 96.49 mg QE g−1 dry weight, for C. indica and C. tribuloides, respectively. C. indica had higher DPPH scavenging activity, with an IC50 value of 15.10 μg mL−1. Both extracts showed substantial antimicrobial activity against the tested bacteria. GC-MS analysis showed the presence of 76 VoCs in C. indica leaf, and 71 VoCs in C. tribuloides. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pleurotus is an edible fungus, distributed worldwide. It is known for its nutritional value and various medicinal properties. It is been the first time formulated as a bioactive in textile finishing due to its antibacterial properties. In this study, anthraquinone (AQ) is extracted from edible Pleurotus ostreatus by traditional soxhlet extraction, and the bioactive is characterized and used in textile fabric coating to check the efficiency of its antibacterial properties and finally, the efficacy of the fabric is studied. The extracted AQ is analyzed for its various structural fidelities using GCMS, FTIR, LCMS, NMR, and HPLC. This structural predicted AQ is treated with fabrics to enhance the antibacterial activity. The bleached cotton woven fabric was utilized as a textile substrate for this research. Citric acid is used as a cross-linking agent and potassium alum was used as a mordant. The mordant treated fabrics were engrossed with various concentrations of bioactive AQ extract such as 25%, 50%, 75%, and 100%.for 30 min and padded separately in the presence of citric acid to sustain 5.5 pH. It was again immersed in the solution for another five minutes and the process was repeated and squeezing to get a wet pick up of 85% on the weight of the fabric. At 80 °C for 3 min the fabric was dried and restored at 110 °C for 5 min on a lab model curing chamber. This treated fabric was further evaluated for fragrance test, colour intensity, olfaction test followed by an antibacterial assay using gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria. A zone of inhibition of 27.70 mm, 30 mm, 32 mm, and 33 mm was observed for 25%, 50%, 75%, and 100% extracts of anthraquinone. From the analysis carried out, it was concluded that the anthraquinone extract performed as a good antibacterial agent against gram-positive bacteria (Listeria monocytogenes) and gram-negative bacteria (Escherichia. coli) and helped prevent bacteria and other microorganisms from attaching to the fabric surface. Hence, healthcare personnel are protected with functional clothing as well as fabrics all around the home, including socks, mattresses, baby diapers, and coverings. From the olfaction China GB method, it was concluded that the treated fabric had a peculiar smell with aromatic and herbal flavours with a good odour. Thus, it can be inferred that anthraquinone treated fabric retains the fragrance due to its better binding property. Based on the subjective studies it was noticed that this fragrance could last up to 20 washes and for more than 4 weeks. This allows the attire and textile industry to utilize fragrance-treated fabric in developing innovative and hygienic attire products in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, bacterial isolates form Bat guano of a lime stone cave capable of producing antibiotics are reported. Screening of bacterial strains was carried out from top, middle, and bottom layer of the guano sample. Out of 20 isolated strains, three showed antimicrobial activity against all tested ATTC strain of common bacterial (both gram positive and gram negative) and fungal species. 16s RNA gene sequencing of the strain showing maximum activity revealed the isolated strain as Bacillus subtilis. Optimum production of antimicrobial compounds took place in TSB medium after 72 h of incubation at 30 °C. FTIR of crude extract showed chemical similarity with bacitracin. GCMS analysis of the crude extract revealed a range of antimicrobial and anticancer compounds. It is concluded that Bacillus subtilis strain isolated from Bat Guano is a potential source of novel antimicrobial compounds of broad-spectrum nature and have inhibitory effects against potential pathogens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A pilot-scale treatment method was used in the present study to test the biosorption of textile dye from textile effluent and carbon dioxide using Chlorella vulgaris RDS03. The textile dye effluent treatment achieved that textile dye biosorption capacity (qmax) rate of 98.84% on 15 days of treatment using Chlorella vulgaris RDS03. The Langmuir and Freundlich isotherm kinetics model indicated that the higher R2 value 0.98. The microalga Chlorella vulgaris RDS03 was captured-96.86% of CO2 analyzed by CO2 utilization and biofixation kinetics, 4.65 mgmL−1 of biomass, 189.26 mgg−1 of carbohydrate, 233.89 mgg−1 of lipid, 4.3 mLg−1 of bioethanol and 4.9 mLg−1 of biodiesel produced. We performed fatty acid methyl ester (FAME) profiling using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GCMS). We found 40 types of biodiesel compounds, specifically myristic acid, pentadecanoic acid, octadecanoic acid, palmitic acid, and oleic acid. The high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) validated and analyzed the produced bioethanol. Novelty of the Research • Unicellular microalga Chlorella vulgaris RDS03 was isolated from the freshwater region and investigated their biosorption efficiency against hazardous synthetic azo textile dyes. • Chlorella vulgaris RDS03 ability to biosorption 96.86% of environmental polluted carbon dioxide • Treated biomass was used to produce ecofriendly, unpolluted and green energy such as biofuels (biodiesel and bioethanol) [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study focusses on the bio-fabrication of leaf extracts of Annona muricata dyed bamboo woven fabric and its application in wound healing. Annona muricata was exposed to ultrasonic-assisted extraction (UAE) with acetone for fabric finishing. Bioactivity is characterized and employed in textile fabric coating to evaluate the efficacy of its antibacterial and wound healing characteristics. The treated fabric was then tested for antibacterial activity using gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria, aroma, color intensity, olfaction, and invivo wound healing. The invivo test was carried out in wistar rats for 21 days for 50%, 75%, and 100%. According to the results of the analysis, the extract is a good antibacterial agent against gram-positive bacteria (Bacillus subtilus) and gram-negative bacteria (Pseudomonas sp.), which aids in the prevention of bacteria and other germs from sticking to the injured area since the leaf extracts have high antibacterial properties. The wound healing impact of the plant extract coated with bamboo fabric on in vivo wound models in rats (Wistar albino rats) demonstrated a significant increase in wound closure, showing the efficacy of the coated fabric. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cancer, a global health problem due to its increasing prevalence coupled with high mortality rate. Chemotherapy is an aggressive form of drug therapy. Herbal therapy is safer and healthier to treat specific medical issues. Nigella sativa has been used as traditional medicine for centuries. The crude oil extracted from seed is effective against diseases but vegetative part of N. sativa has always been ignored for its therapeutic potential. Hence, it was hypothesized that vegetative part could be potential antineoplastic source against cancer. Therefore, reactive oxygen species determination and antineoplastic activity were performed against Hep2 and MCF7 cancer cell lines. n-butanol extract of Vegetative Part (VP) caused maximum cell death of Hep2 (58% cell viability). The chloroform VP extract showed 38% cell viability at 10 mg mL-1. The extracts with significant activity were later on validated through GCMS and LC-MS, following literature in PubChem, NIST and Spectrabase libraries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bacterial strain (Pseudomonas kilonensis MB490) isolated from agricultural fields of Mianwali, was selected to check its potential to degrade Organophosphate insecticide dimethoate (DM). Strain MB490 was able to degrade dimethoate equally well at given pH range (6.0, 7.0 and 8.0), thus showing its pH independence for dimethoate degradation. Optimum temperature for dimethoate degradation varied from 25–30 °C. There was more dimethoate degradation under shaking conditions with optimum growth. Strain MB490 showed 90% dimethoate degradation in M-9 broth and 90.6% in soil slurry, while exhibited 81.5% dimethoate degradation in soil microcosm within 9 days, based on HPLC analysis of bacterial samples supplemented with 200 mg/L dimethoate. The average half-life (t1/2) of dimethoate after bacterial degradation ranged from 1.95 days in 1st phase to 5 days in 2nd phase in M-9 broth, soil slurry and soil microcosm, while in control media without bacteria, it ranged from 30 to 64.3 days. GCMS investigation revealed the transformation of dimethoate into 5 metabolic products namely Methyl diethanol amine, Aspartylglycine ethyl ester, Phosphonothioic acid propyl-O, S-dimethyl ester, O, O, O-Trimethyl thiophosphate and omethoate which were ultimately mineralized by the strain MB490, providing energy for its growth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current study aimed to investigate the antioxidant, antibacterial, antidiabetic and antihemolytic potentials of heat-treated Petroselinum crispum, Trigonella-foenum graecum and Cymbopogon citratus. Ten min roasted and thirty min boiled fresh T. foenum-graecum and processed P. crispum revealed the highest DPPH scavenging activity (50% to 75% inhibition). All P. crispum samples displayed the highest antibacterial activity against K. pneumoniae and B. subtilis at 10, 20 and 30 min boiling and 20 min roasting and baking. The antidiabetic potency of herbs was increased upon 10 min roasting, while P. crispum was ineffective in reducing haemolysis. Pearson correlation analysis (PCA) displayed a positive relationship (r > 0.3) between phytochemicals and antioxidant activity and weak correlation (r < 0.3) with antidiabetic potentials. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GCMS) indicated that some compounds disappeared on heating the herbs, while some compounds showed an increase in concentration. All-inclusive, this study endorses the application of roasted P. crispum and T. foenum-graecum against various diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was to compare the antioxidant and antibacterial activity of Curcuma caesia rhizome extracts and to characterise its bioactive metabolites by Fourier Transform-Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy and Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectroscopy (GC-MS). Extracts were prepared using methanol, acetone and ethyl acetate by cold percolation methods. Compared to other extracts, methanol extract discovered to have the greatest antioxidant capacity. Analysis of FTIR spectra of all the extracts of Curcuma caesia shows the existence of several functional groups such as phenol, aldehydes and carboxylic group. But in methanol extract C≡C stretching bond, nitro compound and conjugated aldehyde were also presented. GC-MS extract assessment showed that sesquiterpene and monoterpenes were primarily presented. This research provides an efficient basis for separating the innovative bioactive compound from plant and assessing their effectiveness for antioxidant and antibacterial operations in particular. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Textiles that are in direct contact with human skin are problematic due to the possibility of transferring the dyes or their aromatic amine metabolites through direct contact. 18 samples of women underwear panties of different colors and fabrics materials were examined for their content of azo dyes using thermogravimetric-gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (TGA-GCMS) technique. The nature of fabrics (cotton, nylon, and polyesters) was identified based on their unique thermogravimetric analyses (TGA) pattern. Aromatic amines produced from thermal degradation of the samples were identified using NIST mass spectra data base. Aniline was found in all samples regardless of their color or fabric composition. Black cotton textiles were characterized by the presence of diaminobenzene, red cotton sample showed the presence of 4-amino-3-nitrobenzene-1-sulfonic acid, blue cotton sample showed the presence of chlorobenzenediamine and chloroaniline, and purple cotton textiles showed the presence of 4-nitroaniline. All four purple nylon samples contained nitroaniline and biphenylamine, the three red nylon samples contained nitroaniline and methyldihydro-thiadiazole, the two pink samples showed the presence of chloro-2-(trifluoromethyl) anilinechloro-benzenediamine, the purple polyethylene sample show the presence of diphenyldiazene, and the brown polyester sample showed the presence of 2-amino-1,4-phenylene) dimethanol. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mentha piperita is a hybrid mint, a crossbreed between watermint and spearmint. Indigenous to Europe and the Middle East, the plant is now widely spread and cultivated in many regions of the world. It is occasionally found in the wild with its parent species. This study has been undertaken to apply Mentha piperita bio extract on woven cotton textiles for antibacterial finish. With a view to understand the effect of various functional groups present in the herb, molecular characterisation was done using FTIR. Chemical groups responsible for antibacterial behaviour and the chemical structure of this plant were investigated through GCMS. Mentha piperita treated fabric has greater colour depth (K/S) in comparison to original fabric and it increases with increase in concentration. The mordanted fabrics were immersed in the 25%, 50%, 75% and 100% concentration of ethanolic extracted Mentha piperita for five minutes and padded individually in the presence of citric acid. The fabric was then dried at 80 °C for 3 min and cured at 110 °C for 2 min.The fabrics were evaluated for antibacterial activity against gram negative bacteria (Escherichia.coli) and gram positive bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus) by Agar Well Diffusion method. Zone of inhibition of 7 mm to 21 mm was measured for the different treated fabrics against gram negative bacteria (Escherichia.coli) when compared with 5 mm to 18 mm for gram positive bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus).Zone of inhibition in treated fabrics reveal that the antibacterial effect is more potent against gram negative bacteria. There is zone of inhibition for both gram negative and gram positive bacteria after 20 washing cycles. However, Mentha piperita treated fabric can retain 42.8–71.4% of its initial antibacterial property even after 20 washing cycles. Cotton fabrics also generate fragrance after treatment. Fragrance intensity ratings of 200 respondents have been documented and evaluated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tadehagi triquetrum (L.) H.Ohashi, also known as Desmodium triquetrum (Fabaceae) is the most important plant in the herbal remedies. The present study focus on the isolation, in-silico and in-vitro studies of the two alkaloids C1 (5-(4-[(methylcarbamoyl) amino]-2-oxopyrimidin-1(2H)-yl) tetrahydrofuran-2-yl) methyl methyl carbamate is novel alkaloid and C2 13-Docosenamide is a known alkaloid. The chemical structures of compounds have been elucidated based on comprehensive techniques like GCMS, IR and NMR. In order to know the molecular mechanisms for the two compounds, in silico molecular docking study has been performed. Both compounds have shown perfect binding affinity to the enzymes TNF α, IL-4, IL-13 and 5 LOX Enzyme. The compounds also exhibited comparable G-scores and Glide energy values in comparison with the standard dexamethasone. In addition both the compounds have been tested for in vitro antioxidant assay by using ABTS and DPPH method and the results were compared with standard ascorbic acid. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A spatio-temporal analysis of representative concentration pathways (RCPs)-based projections of surface air temperatures under different combinations of global circulation models (GCMs) and RCPs for Satluj River Basin has been presented. The projections of temperature anomalies have been obtained for several meteorological stations in the basin using 16 different combinations of emission scenarios and global climate models (GCMs). For each combination, the projections of temperature anomalies have been analysed for two future time periods centred at 2030 and 2050. The results of the analysis conducted herein clearly indicate that the temperature will rise for all the future time scales with the maximum increase being projected under RCP8.5 compared to the baseline 1986–2005. However, there is large inter-model variability in the projections of temperature anomalies under different RCPs. Under RCP 8.5, the average temperature in Satluj basin is projected to rise by around 4°C by mid of the twenty-first century. The projections of temperature anomalies analysed herein could be potentially used for the evaluation of hydrological impacts of climate change in Satluj River Basin—a key basin in the Himalayan region from the view point of global warming. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The matrix effects in bell pepper samples were studied. The simultaneous determination of six organophosphorus (OPPs) pesticides (chlorpyrifos, dichlorvos, disulfoton, ethoprophos, fenchlorphos, and prothiofos), by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC/MS) method using sample preparation on QuEChERS-citrate, was developed and validated. Non-organic and organic bell peppers (Capsicum annuum L.) samples were analysed. Matrix-matched calibrations were established to correct matrix effect (ME) for quantification analysis of the six pesticides. All of the pesticides showed matrix-induced signal suppression, where chlorpyrifos and prothiofos were the pesticides that presented the most significant values, −65.54 and −65.31, respectively. The pesticides studied showed good linearity with correlation coefficient values higher than 0.99. The LODs ranged from 0.002 to 0.039 mg kg-1 and LOQs 0.006 to 0.130 mg kg-1. Only one sample of the bell pepper showed contamination with chlorpyrifos (0.177 mg.kg-1), corresponding to a value 17.7 times higher than the MRLs allowed for this crop by European Committee (EC) (0.010 mg.kg-1). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aloe barbadensis miller is a naturally occurring biomolecule. This study has been undertaken to apply Aloe barbadensis miller solution on woven cotton textiles for antibacterial finish. With a view to understand the effect of various functional groups present in Aloe barbadensis miller, molecular characterisation was done using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. Chemical groups responsible for antibacterial behaviour of Aloe barbadensis miller were evaluated. Characterisation of the chemical structure of this biomolecule was done through gas chromatography and mass spectrometry. Whiteness index of the treated cotton textiles decreases with increase in concentration of Aloe barbadensis miller. A larger zone of inhibition in Aloe barbadensis miller treated fabrics reveal that the antibacterial effect is more potent against both gram positive and gram negative bacteria at different levels of concentration. Cotton fabrics also generate fragrance after treatment with Aloe barbadensis miller solution. Fragrance intensity ratings of 200 respondents have been recorded and analysed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The phytocompounds in crude solvent extracts of Pereskia bleo leaves were identified and their cytotoxic effects on cancer cell lines were determined. Crude extracts were obtained via maceration and subjected to GCMS analysis. Then, each extract was incubated with HeLa, MDA-MB-231, SW480, and NIH/3T3 cell lines for 72 h. 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyl-tetrazolium bromide assay was done to determine IC50 values of each extract. Terpenoids, sterols, alkaloids, fatty acids and phenolic compounds were identified from the crude extracts of P. bleo leaves. Other compounds identified were γ-sitosterol, β-tocopherol, and γ-tocopherol. The ethyl acetate extract had potent cytotoxic effect against HeLa and MDA-MB-231 cancer cells as noted by the lowest IC50 values [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the aroma volatile compounds of commercial Chinese traditional fermented fish (Suan yu) from western Hunan were investigated. A total of 59 volatile compounds were identified and quantified by GC-MS combined with headspace solid-phase microextraction. Esters and alcohols presented over 50 percent of the overall aroma in concentration. With the calculation of odor activity values (OAVs), 20 odorants were recognized as aroma-active compounds due to their OAVs greater than 1, including esters (10), alcohols (5), acids (1), and aldehydes (4). Sensory evaluation revealed higher scores in estery, fruity, and grassy attributes than others. A positive correlation between sensory attributes and aroma-active compounds was clearly elaborated by partial least squares regression analysis (PLSR). PLSR results indicated that ethyl-2-methylbutyrate, ethyl 3-methylbutyrate, and ethyl decanoate were significantly and positively correlated with fruity attribute, while ethyl hexanoate and 1-octen-3-ol had a significant positive impact on estery and grassy attribute, respectively. This study elaborates the aroma profile of Suan yu from western Hunan of China, and implies the availability of PLSR for the flavor evaluation of fish products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context:Muntingia calabura L. (Muntingiaceae) exerts antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities, thus, it might be a good hepatoprotective agent. Objective: This study investigates the effect of methanol extract of M. calabura leaves (MMCL) on hepatic antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities in CCl4-induced hepatotoxic rat. Materials and methods: Sprague Dawley rats (n = 6) were treated (p.o.) with 10% DMSO (Groups 1 and 2), 50 mg/kg N-acetylcysteine (Group 3) or, 50, 250, or 500 mg/kg MMCL (Groups 4–6) for 7 consecutive days followed by pretreatment (i.p.) with vehicle (Group 1) or 50% CCl4 in olive oil (v/v) (Groups 2–6) on day 7th. Plasma liver enzymes and hepatic antioxidant enzymes and pro-inflammatory cytokines concentrations were measured while liver histopathology was examined. Results: MMCL, at 500 mg/kg, significantly (p < 0.05) ameliorated CCl4-induced hepatotoxicity by decreasing the plasma level of alanine transaminase (429.1 versus 168.7 U/L) and aspartate transaminase (513.8 versus 438.1 U/L) as well as the tissue level of nitric oxide (62.7 versus 24.1 nmol/g tissue). At 50, 250, or 500 mg/kg, MMCL significantly (p < 0.05) reduced the tumour necrosis factor α (87.8 versus 32.7 pg/mg tissue), interleukin-1β (1474.4 versus 618.3 pg/mg tissue), and interleukin-6 (136.7 versus 30.8 pg/mg tissue) while increased the liver catalase (92.1 versus 114.4 U/g tissue) and superoxide dismutase (3.4 versus 5.5 U/g tissue). Additionally, qualitative phytochemicals analysis showed that MMCL contained gallic acid, ferulic acid, quercetin, and genistein. Discussion and conclusions: MMCL ability to attenuate CCl4-induced hepatotoxicity could be helpful in the development of hepatoprotective agents with fewer side effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research work evaluates the impact of 1.2% pomegranate peel extract (Pp) (Punica granatum), 0.1% grapefruit seed (Gfs) (Citrus paradisi) extract, and synthetic preservative 1.25% sodium bisulfite on shelf life extension of Litopenaeus vannamei stored at 4 and 15°C. The application of isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC) for comparison of the extracts and chemical preservative on shrimp quality retention based on the overall heat production by microbial and enzymatic degradation was addressed. The occurrence of probable bioactive responsible for antimicrobial and antioxidant activity components in the extracts was examined through gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GCMS). At 4°C, Pp-treated shrimps resulted in 6.73 logCFU/g, 6.93 logCFU/g, 5.31 mgN/100 g, and 0.58 mgMDA/kg for aerobic plate count, psychrotrophic bacterial count, trimethylamine, and thiobarbituric-acid reactive substance, respectively, on the 15th day. At 15°C, Pp-coated shrimps retained quality until day 4. Isothermal calorimetric analysis resulted in a rapid and sharp peak for fresh samples, whereas there was broad and delayed peak for shrimp treated with Pp and sodium bisulfite. These observations prove that Pp counterpart the chemical preservative and outperform Gfs on shrimp quality retention. Results also indicate that isothermal calorimetry can be a useful technique for shelf life predictions and comparative evaluation of extract impact on shrimp quality retention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Climate change may increase the risk of biological invasions. However, current knowledge of this interaction is limited. Aims: We aimed to quantify (1) the effect of climate change on the potential distribution of invasive plant species in Spain, (2) the importance of the area of origin of such species and (3) the vulnerability of different biogeographic provinces to future changes in climatic suitability for invaders. Methods: We applied six methods of species distribution modelling to assess the variation of climatically suitable areas for 40 alien plants. We developed a Potential Area Change Index and used it as the response variable in modelling for three future emissions scenarios and three global circulation models over three time periods. The area of origin and biogeographic province in Spain were also considered. Results: We found a highly specific response for each plant species rather than a clear trend for the entire set of species. Predicted climate suitability increased over higher emission scenarios and longer projected time lags. Neotropical species showed the greatest potential climatic range expansion. We detected a strong interaction between the geographic origin of a species and the biogeographic province. Conclusions: Special attention should be given to the areas where aridification of climate is projected and where introduced neotropical species are likely to expand their range. Future work should develop accurate species-specific approaches that allow the management invasive plant species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the dried powder of seeds and pollen of Phoenix dactylifera was extracted using Soxhlet extractor and biochemical composition of lipophilic extracts was analysed by GCMS. Then, we have tested the antibacterial effect of fatty acids and volatile compounds found in these sub-products. The results revealed that the main fatty acids found in Deglet Nour seeds is are oleic acid (42.06%) followed by capric acid (24.16%), Takerbucht seeds extract contains mostly oleic acid (40.59%) and palmitic acid (20.19%), while Bent Kbala seed extract is rich in cis-vaccenic acid (52.09%) followed by capric acid (16.71%). Pollen extract have shown for the first time the richness in 14-methyl palmitic acid (33.31%), linoleic acid (31.16%) and linolenic acid (25.78%). Some of these elements seem to have a significant effect against some pathogenic bacteria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The focus of this paper is on the analytical methodologies, which include the extraction, fractionization and identification of active ingredients of root extract of medicinal tree Oroxylum indicum (L.) Vent. The genus Oroxylum indicum (L.) Vent. (Family Bignoniaceae] is a small deciduous, soft wooded tree. Every part of tree produces a broad spectrum of valuable compounds mainly flavonoids and phenolic compounds. Root of O. indicum has long been used in different ayurvedic preparations like Dashmularisht and Chyavanprash. A comparative study of compounds present in the chloroform, ethyl acetate and n-butanol fractions of root extract through gas chromatography mass spectroscopy was performed. Maximum number of compounds (50) were isolated in chloroform fraction, whereas in ethyl acetate, n-butanol and in aqueous fractions the number of compounds isolated simultaneously were 35, 24 and 22. Two compounds (9, 12-Octadecadienoic acid and baicalein) were common in all fractions. Other important compounds isolated were myristyl myristate, hydroxy methyl furfural, ascorbic acid 6-hexadecanoate, pseudopelletierine and squalene. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The genusCentaureaL. (Asteraceae) is widely distributed in Turkey and used as folk remedies for their several biological effects. In the present study hydrodistilled essential oils ofCentaurea lycopifoliaandCentaurea cheirolophawere analysed by gas chromatography and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) techniques, simultaneously. Caryophyllene oxide (13.4 %), spathulenol (12.1 %), phytol (6.3 %), hexadecanoic acid (6.1 %) and nonacosane (6.1 %) as the main constituents ofC. lycopifoliaoil, while hexadecanoic acid (25.8 %), heptacosane (10.8 %), tetradecanoic acid (8.1 %), nonacosane (7.7 %) and phytol (7.4 %) were the main constituents ofC. cheirolophaessential oil. The oils ofC. lycopifoliaandC. cheirolophawere subjected to a screening for their antibacterial activities by using broth microdilution technique. The oils demonstrated weak to moderate antibacterial effects against the tested pathogenic bacteria strains with the MIC values between 4000 to 125 μg/mL. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

High added-value squalene (SQ) was purified in one step from olive oil deodorizer distillates (OODD) using preparative centrifugal partition chromatography (CPC) method, operating in the dual mode. The fractionation was performed using a non-aqueous biphasic solvent system consisting of heptane–acetonitrile–butanol (1.8:1.4:0.7, v/v/v), leading to the isolation of the target compound in 4 hours, using a preparative 1L column. Furthermore, a fast UHPLC-DAD method was developed and applied for the identification and quantification of SQ in both OODD and purified form. The content of SQ in the initial material was 23.4%, while the purity of the isolated SQ was 95.5%. The recovery of SQ was calculated at 76.3%. The productivity of the process was calculated at 234 mg/h/L. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Ocimumsp. taxonomy and nomenclature are in a state of confusion; thus species and cultivar identification are hampered by the large number of species belonging to this genus. In this study, we examined DNA barcoding and leaf essential oil (EO) composition methods for cultivar identification of local and recently introducedOcimumsp.Both barcodes ofrbcLaandmatKwere sequenced for each species in parallel with leaf EO composition analyses using gas chromatography and GC–mass spectrometry (GC–MS) of fiveOcimum basilicumcultivars. Antioxidant activities for the EO were determined using 2,2′-diphenypicrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and β-carotene-linoleic acid assays. The main EO constituents were methyl cinnamate (43.8%) inO. basilicumL., chavicol methyl ether (39.1% and 32.3%) inO. basilicumpurple ruffle and anise; respectively, and linalool (30.9% and 30.6%) inO. basilicumGenovese and bush green, respectively. All cultivars were classified into chemotypes easily using their EOs when compared with barcoding using core barcodes, which exhibited no variation among all species in both markers except forOcimum americanum, varying in a single base pair inmatK. We concluded that chemotyping performed better than barcoding in species and cultivar identification, and the search for a better barcodes should continue. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

The essential oil from Filifolium sibiricum (L.) Kitam were extracted using hydrodistillation and GC-MS was used to analyse the essential oil. The main components were espatulenol (8.55%), geranyl acetate (8.03%), caryophyllene oxide (5.47%), calamenene (4.79%), geraniol (4.28%), calamenene (4.53%), geraniol (4.06%), cedrene epoxide (3.23%), myrtenol (3.18%), transgeranylgeranio (3.13%), etc. The essential oil showed intensive inhibitory effects against MCF-7 with IC50 level of 0.78 mg/mL, HepG-2 with IC50 level of 0.44 mg/mL, SKOV-3 with IC50 level of 0.27 mg/mL, BGC-823 with IC50 level of 0.34 mg/mL. In the antibacterial test, the essential oil showed the significant antibacterial activities. The MIC and MBC values were 5.20 and 5.20 mg/mL against Staphylococcus aureus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The history of local Egyptian mint dates back to at least 1,000 BC, when the ancient Egyptians used it as part of their herbal medicine as found in Ebers papyrus. Our study focused on essential oil composition of local and recently introduced Mentha sp. and either suitability or toxicity for humans as traditional medicines. Leaf oils composition of four different Mentha sp.; spicata L. "mint", longifolia L. "wild mint", suaveolens "apple mint" and piperita "chocolate" of Egypt were analyzed using GC and GC-MS. The antibacterial (agar disc diffusion and minimum inhibitory concentrations methods) and antioxidant activities (2,2- diphenypicrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and β-carotene-linoleic acid assays) were examined. Main oils constituent were 1-carvone (53.90%), pulegone (56.43%), piperitenone oxide (35.14%) and L-menthol (30.84%) in Mentha sp.; spicata L., longifolia L., suaveolens "Apple Mint" and piperita "Chocolate"; respectively. The essential oil from M. longifolia demonstrated strong antibacterial activity against all tested plant and human bacterial pathogens, followed by apple mint. The highest total antioxidant activity was found in M. Spicata (79-85%); supporting ancient Egyptians believes and traditional folk. M. longifolia and M. piperita leaves essential oils enclosed toxic compounds and possible to use of Mentha oils as alternative of antibiotics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The essential oil composition and total phenolic content (TPC) of curcuminoids were studied in rhizomes of nineCurcuma longaL. accessions. Curcuminoids, present in commercially available turmeric rhizomes, play vital roles in various pharmacological activities. A simple, rapid, and sensitive high performance liquid chromatography photodiode array (HPLC-PDA) method was optimized for simultaneous determination of curcuminoids, namely, a mixture of curcumin, demethoxy curcumin (DMC), and bisdemethoxy curcumin (BDMC) in rhizomes ofC. longa. Chromatographic separation was performed on an RP C18 column within 13 minutes (11.4 to 12.95 minutes). Elution was accomplished by the application of acetonitrile and 1.5% acetic acid in water in a gradient system with flow rate of 2.0 mL min−1. PDA was employed for qualitative and quantitative analysis. The calibration curves were found linear (0.99) for all cucuminoids; the limit of detection and quantification ranged between 1.01 µ g mL−1to 1.16 µ g mL−1and 2.30 µ g mL−1to 3.05 µ g mL−1, respectively, while recovery values ranged between 97.97% to 98.32%. The amount of curcumin varied from 0.46% to 2.17%, DMC from 0.13% to 0.92% and BDMC from 0.06% to 0.52%. The validated method was successively used to determine the above compounds in C. longa rhizomes. The TPC in rhizomes ranged from 14.12 mg g−1to 27.72 mg g−1. The chemical composition of rhizome essential oil, analyzed by gas chromatography mass spectrometry (GCMS,) showed large variations in major compounds like ar-tumerone (7.31–38.66%), β-curcumene (1.58–24.53%), and curlone (1.55–15.97%). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to evaluate the antimicrobial and antioxidant activity of the essential oil (EO) extracted from the leaves of Laurus nobilis L. The oil was analyzed by gas chromatography and mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Twenty seven components were identified, representing 96.6% of the EO. The main compounds identified were 1,8-cineole (51.8%), α-terpinyl acetate (11.2%), and sabinene (10.1%). The oil was screened for possible antioxidant activity using two complementary test systems: DPPH (2,2-diphenylpicrylhydrazyl) free radical-scavenging and the β-carotene/linoleic acid assay. Both of these in vitro methods showed that the EO was a less powerful reducing agent than the well-known synthetic antioxidants, butylated hydroxytoluene and ascorbic acid. Also, the antimicrobial activity of the EO was tested against a panel of food-spoiling bacteria and one yeast strain. The minimum inhibitory concentration values for microorganisms that were sensitive to L. nobilis EO ranged from 125-2000 μg/mL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study deals with the chemical characterization of a medicinal and an aromatic plant of the Tunisian flora: Allium roseum var. odoratissimum, and aimed to identify new bioactive natural compounds in its flower essential oil. These compounds were extracted by hydrodistillation and were analyzed by GC and GC/MS, using an apolar column. The most important compounds characterized were organo-sulphurous (46%), including methyl 2-propenyl trisulfide, di-2-propenyl trisulfide, di-1-propenyl disulfide, di-2-propenyl disulfide, dimethyl trisulfide, methyl 2-propenyl disulfide, and di-1-propenyl trisulfide, found as 10.75, 9.07, 5.81, 4.98, 3.90, 3.30, and 2.53%, respectively. Moreover, heneicosane and pentacosane were identified for the first time at relatively high rates (8.18 and 4.49%, respectively) in the Allium roseum essential oil. This essential oil composition exhibited newly identified sulphurous compounds at relatively high rates (46.53%) when compared with what was found while using polar column. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The chemical composition of essential oil of Matricaria chamomilla was determined at four irrigation regimes (irrigation after 25, 50, 75, and 100 mm evaporation from class A pan, I1, I2, I3, and I4, respectively) under five plant densities (5, 10, 15, 20, and 25 cm intra-row spacing with constant inter-row spacing of 30 cm, D1, D2, D3, D4, and D5, respectively). Results of gas chromatography mass spectroscopy analyses of essential oil showed that the main components in all treatments were azulene-7-ethyl-1,4-dimethyl (chamazulene), limonene, bisabolol oxides A and B, trans-β-farnesene, bisabolone oxide and isobornyl isobutyrate<8-isobutyryloxy>. Analysis of variance for 33 constituents showed differences in Di-(2-ethylhexyl)-phthalate, Chamazulene, para-cymene, trans-β-ocimene and β-selinene. The highest concentrations of Di-(2-ethylhexyl)-phthalate (0.29%) and β-selinene (0.08%) were obtained from I1 and I2, and the lowest from I3 (0.17%) and I4 (0.02%), respectively. The highest concentrations of Chamazulene (18.32%) and β-selinene (0.10%) were obtained from D3 and D1 and the lowest from D1 (15.10%) and all other plant densities (0.03%), respectively. All irrigation regimes and plant densities had the same concentrations of para-cymene and trans-β-ocimene. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A GC-MS method was developed for the determination of free fatty acids (FFAs) in the alcohol extract of Tie Bang Chui. Six major types of FFAs were identified. All the six FFAs identified in alcohol extract were quantified with nonadecanoic acid as an internal standard. The results showed that the alcohol extract was abundant in three types of FFAs, linoleic acid (38.14%, 8.49 ± 0.22 mg/g) was the predominant fatty acid, followed by palmitic acid and oleic acid, unsaturated FFAs amounted to 71.35% of the total FFA content, and there was no trans FFA present. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objectives of this work are to study lump coal derived soot formation and related gaseous emissions during the pyrolysis process in a fixed bed. A laboratory scale movable fixed bed, a water cooled soot collection system and an electric reactor have been designed and employed in the process. Three kinds of coals sized at 3–5 mm, have been pyrolysed in the experiments. The ash content of the soot samples on the filter has been tested and analysed by using inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectrometer. The tar and soot have been separated by dissolving the samples in dichloromethane, and the yields of soot have been determined. The compositions of gases from the exit have been determined by gas chromatograph mass spectrometer. The results show that more tar has been converted to soot at higher temperatures and some of the saturated aliphatic hydrocarbons are condensed and polymerised to aromatic hydrocarbons. More tar has been converted to soot at longer residence times and some of the unsaturated aliphatic hydrocarbons are reformed to saturated aliphatic hydrocarbons. No small molecular compound exists at longer residence time. With high volatiles coal it is easier to form soot which releases more aromatic hydrocarbons. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to develop a quantitative gas chromatography mass spectrometry (GC-MS) method to determine the classical amphetamines and their methylenedioxylated derivatives in human hair. The procedure involved liquid-liquid extraction of hydrolysed hair spiked with deuterated internal standards and direct derivatization with perfluorooctanoyl chloride. After evaporation of the organic phase and dissolution in butylacetate, the derivatized compounds were injected into a GC-MS. Method validation results showed a linear range from 0.25 to 25 ng/mg for the target compounds: amphetamine (AM), methamphetamine (MA), methylenedioxyamphetamine (MDA) and methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA or ecstasy). An intra-day precision of 3-6 % RSD and an inter-day precision of 3-17 % RSD were observed. Trueness was between 96 % and 106 % for the target compounds. The limit of detection ranged from 0.07 to 0.14 ng/mg and of quantification from 0.24 to 0.46 ng/mg, depending on compound. The method was applied on 40 authentic hair samples (segmented or pooled hair), of which 15 cases involved amphetamine and/or ecstasy. The hair concentrations ranged from LOD to 3.2 ng/mg of AM in 7 cases, to 0.4 ng/mg of MDA in 3 cases and to 5.9 ng/mg of MDMA in 13 cases. MA was only detected once at trace level. The method, including the derivatization procedure, is simple and robust with a sensitivity that is satisfactory for measurement of amphetamines and ecstasy in hair from abusers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Seeds of Enterolobium contortisiliquum were subjected to steam distillation to obtain a light yellow essential oil in a yield of 3 ml/kg of seeds. The major components of the oil were identified using gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and were furfural, limonene, linalool, estragole, carvone, and apiole with carvone representing more than 50% of the total composition. Antimicrobial activities of the essential oil were determined against four species of gram positive bacteria (Bacillus subtilis, Bacillus cereus, Staphylococcus aureus, Micrococcus luteus) and two gram negative bacteria (Klebsiella pneumoniae, Serratia Marcescencs). The essential oil inhibited the growth of all tested bacteria but was most effective against the gram positive bacteria. Chemicals that are responsible for the antibacterial effect of the essential oil were determined using the bio-autography thin layer chromatography (TLC) technique. The active compounds responsible for the activity were found to be carvone and estragole. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Seeds of three accessions of Dracocephalum heterophyllum growing wild in high altitude locations in the cold desert regions of trans-Himalaya were collected and propagated under polyhouse conditions at IHBT Palampur to evaluate, compare their growth performance and essential oil composition. Three different chemotypes viz., citronellol-rose oxides type, citronellol type and citronellal-trans rose oxide type were identified. Samples of essential oils were distilled separately from leaves and inflorescence of all the three cultivated accessions and characterised by capillary GC and GC-MS techniques, which showed variation in the volatile constituents. In all the three accessions, citronellol was higher in the inflorescence oils as compared to leaf oils. Rose oxides, which are important high odour value cyclic monoterpene ethers were found in the essential oil samples of leaves as well as in the inflorescence of accession II, whereas these constituents were absent in the leaves of other two accessions. The essential oil from the inflorescence part of accession I was devoid of both cis and trans isomers of rose oxide, while accession III contained only one isomer of trans rose oxide. Under polyhouse conditions, seed germination was higher in accession III, whereas aerial biomass was higher in accession I. In comparison to other accessions, yield of volatile oil was higher in both leaf and inflorescence of accessions I, whereas accession II had higher oil yield from inflorescence. This is the first report of volatile oil composition of three accessions of D. heterophyllum cultivated at Palampur having potential as a new source of high valued essential oil for introduction in the perfumery industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article examines the presence, distribution, nature and sources of 19 Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAH), in Patellae ( patella vulgate L. ) and seaweed ( vulva ) sampled in different stations of Sicilian coastal environments and analyzed for their polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) content. Analysis was performed by gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS) with selected ion monitoring (SIM), after saponification of the sample and clean up of the extract. In the limpets the total concentration of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons ranged from 34 to 750 µ g/Kg of dry matrix. The relative standard deviation (RSD) of the replicas on the concentrations of individual compounds ranged from 4 to 20%. The accuracy of method was estimated by analyzing “blank” samples spiked with known quantities of analytes and the recover percentage was 82 ± 12%. The detection limit (LOD) of analytical procedure was less than 0.2 µ g/Kg d.w. for all analytes. The quantification limit (LOQ) of analytical procedure was less 0.7 µ g/Kg d.w. The resulting distributions and weight ratios of specific compounds are discussed in terms of sampling location and origin. The results obtained show that levels of contamination vary from one sampling station to the next, while relative distributions of PAH is homogeneous in most stations. Lipidic content and total PAH concentrations were found not to be correlated and the compounds present in limpets were shown to be mainly of petrogenic origin. There is no evidence of coal-tar contamination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Extract of Naravelia zeylanica (Ranunculaceae) yielded three simple benzamides, 3,4-methylenedioxybenzamide, 4-methoxybenzamide and 4-hydroxy-3-methoxybenzamide. These simple C 6 C 1 metabolites have been encountered as natural products for the first time. The compounds were identified by direct comparison of their spectral ( 1 H- and 13 C-NMR) and chromatographic (GCMS) data with those of authentic samples. Authentic 4-hydroxy-3-methoxybenzamide was synthesized in one step by treatment of 4-hydroxy-3-methoxybenzonitrile with sodium perborate. Authentic 3,4-methylenedioxybenzamide was synthesized from the corresponding acid. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article focuses on the historical context, present condition, technique and materials of the reverse glass paintings by William Nicholson that were commissioned in 1913 by Edward Knoblock for his apartment in the Palais Royale, Paris, France. There are few detailed technical studies of twentieth‐century reverse glass painting, despite the technique appearing in the work of major artists such as Picasso, Pollock and Duchamp. The most notable exponents of the technique are Kandinsky, Klee and other members of Der Blaue Reiter (Lee Ward 1978). In the case of the reverse‐painted panels by Nicholson, it was essential to carry out an investigation of the materials and techniques employed in the execution of the panels to inform future conservation decisions and to evaluate different methods of redisplay. Both the priming and binding media were analysed to establish their character. Pigments used by Nicholson were also identified. This information, in turn, made a significant contribution to the exceedingly sparse technical information about Nicholson's work. A replica panel was made to gain an empirical understanding of Nicholson's working technique and material choice. It was also important to establish the chronology of the panels’ locations while they were still in Knoblock's possession. This helped to account for the stark differences in condition of separate panel sets and confirmed a link to a similar, now privately owned, panel set that had been thought to be by Nicholson. This study also contributes to our understanding of the methods used to create reverse glass paintings, and provides essential information from which to make treatment decisions. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]