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Piper peepuloides a well-known medicinal plant of Piperaceae family is used by many tribal groups to treat inflammation and diabetics in India. In the study, different extracts such as petroleum ether, chloroform, ethyl acetate, ethanol and aqueous of Piper peepuloides fruits are evaluated for its secondary metabolites, in vitro antioxidant and Anti-bacterial activity. Among various extracts, Piper peepuloides fruits ethanol extracts showed the maximum amount of phenolics (1394.64 mg GAE/g extract), tannin (1365.21 mg GAE/g extract) and flavonoid (797.89 mg RE/g extract) content. It also revealed the presence of highest antioxidant property by estimating DPPH% (IC50: 55.28 µg/mL), ABTS (32055.56 µM TE/g extract), FRAP (248.33), Phosphomolybdenum (196.13 mg AAE/g), Superoxide (65.6%) radical scavenging activity and Piper peepuloides ethyl acetate and ethanol extract of fruit sample showed a significant zone of inhibition for Citrobacter freundii (14 mm), Enterobacter cloacae (13 mm), Burkholderia cepacian (16 mm), Klebsiella pneumonia (14 mm) and Escherichia coli (17 mm) at a concentration of 10 mg/ml. Piper peepuloides fruit extracts have a tremendous amount of antioxidant potential, making them a good source of natural antioxidant supplements for food to protect against oxidative stress-related diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was designed to investigate the phytochemical and the antioxidant activities of fruits, peels and leaves extracts of Citrus reticulata. The total alkaloids, saponin, phenolic acid and flavonoids were determined spectrophotometrically while antioxidant potentials were evaluated with 2,2'-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) protocols. The fruit extract shows the highest phenolic acid content of 33.94 mg/GAE/g. Flavonoids content was highest in the peels extract 14.30 mg/QE/g. All the extracts showed significant antioxidant activities H2O2, DPPH along a concentration gradient. Antioxidant capacity is also high in the test plant suggesting its biomedicinal value to human health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The physical, biochemical and antioxidant properties of one white pulped (Hylocereus undatus; DG-I) and two red pulped dragon fruit species (H. polyrhizus, DG-II; H. costaricencis, DG-III) grown under subtropical conditions of north-west India were determined. Fruit size, fruit weight, pulp weight and pulp: peel ratio was significantly higher in DG-III, though the fruit numbers and yield per pillar was significantly less than other species. The pH, TSS, acidity, total sugar, reducing sugars and moisture content in all the species varied between 4.78-5.72, 8.63-9.31 oBrix, 0.30-0.56%, 6.64-6.91%, 4.60-4.76% and 83.44-85.82%, respectively. Total phenols and flavanols content in DG-I was 24.04 mg GAE 100 g-1 and 14.54 mg RE 100 g-1, whereas in red pulped it was significantly higher; varying between 49.12-56.40 mg GAE 100 g-1 and 30.41-31.10 mg RE 100 g-1 fruit pulp, respectively. ß-carotene values in red pulped species DG-II and DG-III were 47.48 and 43.82 µg 100 g-1, respectively compared to corresponding values of 1.96 µg 100 g-1 in DG-I, a white pulped dragon fruit. Similarly, DPPH-RSC, FRAP, CUPRAC and ABTS values for red pulped dragon fruit ranged between 238.98-262.04 µmol 100 g-1, 358.8-386.40 µmol TE 100 g-1, 830.40-917.0 µmol TE 100 g-1 and 571.4-589.60 µmol 100 g-1, respectively in DG-II and DG-III in comparison to respective values of 108.75 µmol 100 g-1, 192.6 µmol TE 100 g-1, 525.6 µmol TE 100 g-1 and 400.2 µmol 100 g-1 in DG-I. The ß-lain, responsible for imparting red colour in DG-II and DG-III was absent in white pulped DG-I. Seed oil content in both groups of dragon fruit varied between 31.90-33.5% with highest proportion of an essential fatty acid, linoleic acid (46.32-47.96%). In conclusion, red pulped dragon fruit has a considerably higher antioxidative potential than white one and these species may play a vital role in ensuring nutritional security for millions of people in developing nations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ficus cunia is used by many tribes in India to combat several disease conditions such as liver disease, ulcer, dysentery, gynecological disorders and has been reported for the existence of various phenolic compounds. Phenolic compounds are highly spread and broadly dispersed in medicinal plants and are known for several health maintenance abilities. Medicinal plants comprising phenolic compounds display antioxidant and anti-inflammatory abilities which may play a vital role in controlling hypercholesterolemia. Free radicals are responsible for the pathogenesis of chronic diseases. Hypercholesterolemia is supposed to arise from oxidative stress. The purpose of the study was to determine the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-HMG-CoA reductase potential along with the simultaneous determination of phenolic compounds in hydroalcoholic extract of Ficus cunia fruits. In the current study estimation of total phenol and flavonoid content, in vitro antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-HMG-CoA reductase screening and a simple and consistent high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) method were established for simultaneous determination of phenolic compounds (gallic acid, catechin, caffeic acid, rutin, ellagic acid and quercetin) in the hydroalcoholic extract of Ficus cunia fruits (HAFC). Total phenolic and total flavonoid contents in the HAFC were found 58.12±3.6 mg gallic acid equivalents/g and 23.01±1.35 mg quercetin equivalents/g, respectively. HAFC showed good antioxidant activity (IC 50 =34.93±2.34 μg/ml for DPPH; IC 50 =49.25±2.3 μg/ml for ABTS). The FRAP and ORAC values of HFAC were found as 87.41±2.98 mg of ascorbic acid equivalents/g and 105±3.82 μM trolox/g extract. Anti-inflammatory activity was significant and increased gradually with concentration. HAFC showed promising inhibition of HMG-CoA reductase (IC 50 =37.50±1.80 μg/ml). The optimized HPLC method was performed for 65 min with detection wavelengths of 254, 278 and 300 nm, gradient elution system on a ZorbaxSB-C 18 Reversed phase column. The developed system was assessed by validation as per ICH guidelines. The results showed that ellagic acid was found in the highest amount (11.34±.01 mg/g) followed by catechin (5.18±.02) and gallic acid (4.23±.05) among the examined phenolic compounds while caffeic acid was not detected. The results of the present study suggest that the Ficus cunia extract has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory potential and is capable of lowering cholesterol levels. The developed RP-HPLC method may be useful for the quality control of plant extracts/herbal products. [Display omitted] • TPC and TFC of hydroalcoholic extract of F. cunia fruits were studied. • Anti-HMG-CoA reductase potential of the extract was evaluated. • Simultaneous determination of phenolic compounds in extracts by RP-HPLC. • Extract showed the great potential of HMG-COA reductase inhibitory activities. • Ellagic acid was found in the highest amount in the extract. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fruit of Cycas pectinata Buch.-Ham has been used as medicine by the local community in some parts of the north eastern state of India. Despite its uses for different purposes, the safety assessment study has not been conducted. Therefore, we have evaluated the acute and the sub-acute toxicity of methanolic extract of C. pectinata fruit (CPFE) in a mice model via oral route of administration. Phytochemicals analysis was carried out by liquid chromatography-mass spectroscopy (LC-MS), nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The acute toxicity study was performed at a single dose of 1000, 3000 and 5000 mg/kg and the sub-acute toxicity study at a dose of 100, 300 and 500 mg/kg was administered daily for 28 days. The calculated Lethal dose 50 (LD50) of CPFE was found to be 4000 mg/kg. Both acute and sub-acute studies showed that 5000 mg/kg and 500 mg/kg dose was toxic to the mice. The results of acute toxicity showed CPFE could have a mild toxic effect on the kidney at a dose of 3000 and 5000 mg/kg, as some deteriorated changes in the kidney along with increase creatinine levels were observed. Acute toxicity also showed an increase in white blood cells (WBC) at a dose of 3000 mg/kg. However, sub-acute toxicity studies do not show any detrimental effects on liver, kidney and hematological parameters. Thus, it can be suggested that CPFE at a dose of 100 and 300 mg/kg would be safe for consumption. The phytochemicals analysis by LC-MS, NMR and FTIR showed the presence of 32 major chemical compounds with certain biological activity like anti-neoplastic, antioxidant, and possible modulator of steroid metabolism (cholesterol antagonist and agonist of testosterone 17β-dehydrogenase) as predicted by PASS analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A green, simple and cost-effective, validated high-performance liquid chromatographic (HPLC) with UV detector has been developed an analytical method for the simultaneous determination of the most significant phenolic compounds viz. Gallic acid (GA), Quercetin (QC) and Ferulic acid (FA). The detection limit of GA, QC, FA was 0.303, 0.168, 0.0976 μg/mL and quantitation limit was 0.918, 0.051, 0.295 μg/mL, respectively. All parameters of planned validated method were carried out as per the ICH guidelines. This analytical method was applied to determine the phenolic compounds in fruits cultivated in India. Phenolic compounds in fruits extract were quantified using regression equations. This method can be scaled up to determine the alkaloids from several medicinal and poisonous plants samples in pharmaceutical, forensics and industrial areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In India nearly,3.56 million hectaresof area is being managed organically (certified) with limited internal inputs to keep fruits and vegetables chemical-free. Thepresent study aims to obtain bioactive volatile compounds profile of chili fruits grown under organic and conventional farming system in the same climatic conditions. Fields practicing organic farming ORG I (since last 2-3 year), ORG II (5-6 years) and ORG III (8-9 years) were selected. fruit extracts obtained from three experimental fields and one conventional field were analyzed through Gas Chromatography and Mass Spectroscopy. The current experimental study on comparative analysis of nutrient content and effect of pesticides on chili fruits has been conducted in the year 2018. Study based on soil quality, temperature condition, amount of organic matter, pesticide spray, and year of practicing as an organic field.GC-MS analysis of conventional chili recorded a high number of compounds contrasting to organically grown chili which recorded a lesser number of compounds.GC-MS analysis of chili fruit samples grown in different agricultural conditions showed various volatile compounds. Comaprative data shows higher compounds in conventionally grown samples while lower quantity in organically grown samples. Nutritional compounds like ascorbic acid (Vitamin C) were recorded 13.22% in organic fruits in comparison to conventional chili fruits (4.37%).Capsaicinoidsand fatty acid contents were reported manyfold in organically grown chili in comparison to conventional chili fruits. Reports are in favor to promote more and more organic farming systems for nutritional enhancement in food crops. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Fruits residue may act as a source of environmental pollution by releasing nutrients or toxic chemicals in the soil as well as providing a platform for the reproduction of various disease-causing vectors. Thus, recycling fruit waste in pharmaceutical or agricultural sectors may be one of the options for their management. Because of these aspects, the present study was conducted to assess the total phenolic and flavonoid contents in methanol extract from the seed of most commonly consumed fruits in India and their antioxidant properties using 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assay. Methods: The fruits were procured from the fruit shop corner and the seeds were separated manually. The total phenolic and flavonoid content in the methanol extract of seeds of test plants was quantified using standard methods. The DPPH scavenging potential of the extract was further evaluated. Result: The results of the present study showed that the extract of the seed of the test plant has significant amounts of total phenolics, varying from a minimum of 153.72 µg GAE/g to maximum of 344.20 µg GAE/g and flavonoids compounds, varied from a minimum of 118.7 µg OE/g to a maximum of 168.3 µgQE/g. The results further showed that the seed extract possesses DPPH inhibition potential (78.86%-87.39) and their IC50 ranged between 102.60 µg/ml-45.69 µg/ml. The DPPH activity also showed a strong positive relationship with the concentration of extracts and with total phenolic and flavonoid content. The present study suggests that the seed extract of the tested plant has a significant amount of total phenolics and flavonoids compound and possesses higher antioxidant activity. The individual phenolic compound should be identified for its commercial utilization and promotion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to evaluate the sleep modulating properties of Strychnos spinosa and Strychnos innocua fruits in Swiss albino mice. The depressant effect of the extracts on the central nervous system was studied using a diazepam-induced sleep model in mice. The mice were divided into four groups of six mice each. The test groups received Strychnos spinosa and Strychnos innocua fruits extracts at the doses of 250, 500, and 1000 mg/kg body weight intraperitoneally. In contrast, the control group received distilled water at 10 ml/kg. Diazepam (Ranbaxy®, India) was used as a standard drug and administered 30 minutes after the initial treatment. The lethal doses (LD50) of the two extracts were estimated to be >5000 mg/kg. The results obtained from the onset of sleep of rats administered methanol extracts of Strychnos spinosa, and Strychnos innocua fruits showed that the extracts at 250, 500, and 1000 mg/kg, respectively, did not significantly (p >0.05) alter the onset of sleep when compared with the control. The onset of sleep in the groups treated with Strychnos spinosa fruit extracts indicated a dose-dependent decrease pattern. The study also revealed a prolonged duration of sleep in all the experimental groups treated with the two extracts compared to the control group. The treated groups of 250, 500 and 1000 mg/kg significantly (p <0.05) prolonged the duration of diazepam-induced sleep in a dose-dependent manner when compared to the control group. The group treated with 1000 mg/kg of Strychnos innocua fruit extract was significant (p <0.05) compared to the control group. In conclusion, the high LD50 observed in this study suggests that the two extracts are relatively safe and contain promising bioactive ingredients that cause sleep modulation in mice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A field experiment was carried out at the Assam Agricultural University, Jorhat, Assam, India during 2018-2019 to evaluate the efficacy of different biopesticides against whitefly, Bemesia tabaci (Gennadius) on okra. The treatments viz., neem oil @ 5%, karanj oil @ 5%, Melia azedarach leaf extract @ 5%, garlic extract @5%, chilli fruit extract @5%, Beauveria bassiana @ 5%, Lecanicillium lecanii @ 5%, deltamethrin @ 10 g a.i./ha were applied at 15 days interval starting from seedling stage when whitefly infestation started. Results revealed that overall best performance of insecticides against whitefly recorded in deltamethrin treated plots with lowest mean population followed by neem oil, Verticillim lecanii. And observations for whiteflies were recorded at a weekly interval from three leaves per plant, starting from 14th Standard Meteorological Week (SMW). The maximum population of whiteflies (14.91 whiteflies/3 leaves) was observed during the 18th SMW. While the minimum population of whiteflies (3.04 whiteflies/3 leaves) was observed during 31st SMW. Whitefly population was significantly and negatively correlated with maximum temperature and minimum temperature and positively correlated with the bright sunshine hours and the correlation of whiteflies with all other weather parameters was negative and non-significant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Carissa carandas Linn. (family Apocynaceae) is a climbing shrub, with a height of 10 or 15 ft (3–5 m). It is found in Jharkhand and other states of India. It is commonly known as "Karunda" or "Jasmin flower Carissa." The major requirement for its growth is full exposure to the sun. C. carandas blooms and fruits throughout the year. Objectives: Gel of fruit extracts was formulated to determine its wound healing ability by applying it topically on wounds in Wistar rats. Materials and Methods: To study the wound healing activities, excision and incision studies, histopathology, and phytochemical studies were done. Ethanolic fruit extract of C. carandas was applied topically as 20% w/w gel. Excision and incision wound healing models were employed for determining wound contraction and tensile strength percentage. Results: The ethanolic fruit extracts of C. carandas (EFCC) 10% and 20% w/w showed effective activity compared to the simple ointment treated and untreated groups. EFCC 20% w/w had a better effect compared to EFCC 10% w/w. There was an increase in the rate of contraction of wounds on 18th post-wounding day (3.04 ± 0.55***) and increase in tensile strength (388.31 ± 0.59***). Tissue pathology of revitalized skin of EFCC revealed increased production of collagen, mononuclear cells, and fibroblasts. Apigenin (4',5,7-trihydroxyflavone) was also isolated from the extract. Conclusion: The EFCC ointment (20% w/w) showed a significant increase in wound healing activity, validating its use by the tribal people. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study was intended to evaluate nutrition and antioxidant potential of four Cucumis species from the Western Ghats of India. All the studied Cucumis species were found to be an excellent source of nutraceuticals. Leaves and fruits of Cucumis indicus were rich source of energy (296.84±0.20 and 333.52±0.15 kcal/100 g respectively) and several minerals. Cucumis maderaspatanus exhibited the highest flavonoids, tannins and terpenoids along with highest antioxidant potential. Chemometric analysis highlighted the influence of phytochemicals on the antioxidant activities from the organic and aqueous solvents extracts of four Cucumis species, wherein organic extracts found superior. Ethanolic leaf and fruit extracts of Cucumis maderaspatanus demonstrated highest alpha-amylase inhibitory activity (58.58±0.63 and 45.43±0.27 % at 1 mg extract). Similar trend was observed for alpha-glucosidase inhibition from the fruit extract of maderaspatanus (74.31±3.75 % at 100 µg extract). Acetone fruit extract of Cucumis indicus revealed the highest acetylcholinesterase inhibitory activity (31.63±0.16 % at 100 µg extract). Further, extensive research work is needed to explore the Cucumis species as functional food to manage diabetes mellitus and Alzheimer's diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present study, total phenolic and flavonoid contents in the methanol extracts of kernels obtained from the selected fruits such as Mangifera indica, Citrus sinensis, Citrus limetta, Punica granatum, and Carica papaya commonly marketed in India and their antioxidant properties were studied. Total phenolic and flavonoid contents in kernel extracts (measures in mg gallic acid equivalent (GAE)/g fresh weight and mg quercetin equivalent (QE)/g fresh weight, respectively) varied significantly with species (p <0.05) and ranged between 2.35–7.79 and 0.16–1.17, respectively. Antioxidant activities in kernel extract in terms of 2, 2-Diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl, 2, 2ʹ-Azino-bis 3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid and ferric reducing antioxidant power (expressed in µM ascorbic acid equivalent (AAE)/g fresh weight) was found maximum in M. indica (102.8, 182.3 and 48.8, respectively) among the tested fruits. Cluster analysis based on biochemical attributes indicated that the kernel of M. indica is biochemically different from other kernels. Thus the present study concludes that the kernel of M. indica should be scaled up for industrial utilization as it possesses significantly higher antioxidant activities as compared to other kernels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Trend analysis, graphical representation, and summarization of pharmacological research trends were carried out to act as guidance for the future. The main objectives of the research are to find out the complete research trend on the national tree of India so far and to validate its traditional uses along with the pharmacological hepatoprotective activity of Ficus benghalensis L. by developing three in vitro experimental models. Methods: The fruit of the said plant (F. benghalensis) was extracted with different solvent (petrochemical ether, chloroform, ethyl acetate, ethanol, water) system and the yield value was determined. Phytochemical screening was also done with a different solvent. In an in-vitro study, the liver of freshly slaughtered goat (Capra Capra) was used for various investigational tests, and the hepatotoxicity was induced by carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) at a dose of 2 ml/kg, Acetaminophen at a dose of 7 g/kg, and with Erythromycin at a dose of 1.4 g/kg. The ethanol extract of fruits of F. benghalensis at the doses of 100 mg/kg, 250 mg/kg, and 500 mg/kg were used to observe its hepatoprotective effect against drug/chemical-induced in vitro hepatotoxicity as the model developed here with against a standard molecule, Silymarin. Results: Amongst all solvents, ethanol was considered to be a universal solvent and resulted in a yield of 2.96%, which is maximum. Phytochemical screening of ethanol extract of fruit also showed the presence of alkaloids, steroids, flavonoids, carbohydrates, and glycosides. The protein concentration of liver homogenate based on comparison with standard protein concentration was found to be 1.6 mg/mL as measured at λmax of 750 nm. About the protein concentration, catalase (enzymatic) activity was also measured using the standard curve of H2O2, to calculate the specific activity of different models to compare the study results. Conclusion: The significant effect of the reduction of hepatotoxicity was found at a dose of 500 mg/kg of fruit extract against Silymarin. Evaluation of Hepatoprotective activity of fruit in terms of catalase activity with different models flourishing the new research scope to fulfill the shortage of availability of a new, efficient, safe hepatoprotective agent in upcoming days. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aims of this study are to evaluate phytochemical composition, antimicrobial and antioxidant activities of different solvent-assisted blood fruit pulp extracts. The extracts of blood fruit were prepared with various solvents namely, water, ethyl acetate, methanol and acetone. These extracts were divided into two groups, first group of extract were thermosonicated (treated) and the second group were not exposed to thermosonication (untreated). The sample extracts were then evaluated for their antimicrobial properties against various microorganisms. The results revealed that the antimicrobial activity of thermosonicated ethyl acetate extracts at 12 mg/mL concentration exhibited the highest inhibition zone of 19.4 mm against Staphylococcus aureus. The phenolic content of ethyl acetate extract was found to be the highest as compared to that of other solvent extracts and the values were 1508.08 and 1478.34 mg GAE/100 g for treated and untreated samples, respectively. The treated ethyl acetate extract antioxidative activity by DPPH, ORAC, ABTS, and FRAP assay were 1627.68, 2119.82, 938.11, and 2360.18 µmol TE/g, respectively. The minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC − 1.5 mg/mL) against the selected foodborne pathogens was obtained with thermosonicated ethyl acetate blood fruit extract. In the present study, it was observed that the thermosonicated ethyl acetate extract exhibits maximum antioxidant and antimicrobial activities than any other examined solvent extracts. The major bioactive volatile compounds found in treated ethyl acetate extracts were 2-bromotetradecane, tetracosane, heptadecane, eicosane and palmitic acid. These bioactive compounds can be utilizable for the development of functional, nutraceutical and pharmacological products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phoebe cooperiana U.N Kanjilal ex A. Das is an indigenous forest tree species yielding fruits consumed widely across the state of Arunachal Pradesh, India. As part of an initiative to domesticate the species, phenotypic variation in fruit and seed morphology as well as the biochemical properties of the pulp were assessed for 14 populations within the state. Nine fruit and seed characters were measured and 12 biochemical parameters of the fruits were analysed. Five trees were selected from each population and a minimum of 30 fruits were collected from each tree. Analysis of variance indicated significant variation in all fruit and seed morphological parameters. The coefficient of variation for fruit weight was reported to be 5.02%, seed weight 5.60%, pulp weight 5.36% and pulp fruit ratio 4.14%. Among biochemical parameters which are of nutritive value, crude protein, vitamin E and A were higher than that found in most common fruits and vegetables. These traits also showed significant variation among the 14 selected populations with crude protein values ranging between 5.99 and 10.76%, vitamin E between 4.80 and 7.33 mg/100 g and vitamin A between 1.88 and 3.13 mg/100 g. The fruits are also high in phenol with a mean value of 22.19 mg/g and displayed promising 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radical scavenging properties averaging 56.94% antioxidant activity. However, cyanogen content in the fruits was higher than the permissible amount for human consumption, for which processing is recommended before use. The opportunities for domestication are discussed and some promising traits and populations that can be utilized in the domestication programme are identified. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mosquito borne diseases pose a major threat to human health in India. But, these diseases lack vaccines and proper medication thereby leaving vector management as the best alternative for their control. Moreover, vector control is facing a huge challenge due to insecticide resistance development in them. Phytochemicals seem to have a future scope in ecofriendly vector management programs. Therefore, this study was done to assess the larvicidal activity of 4 different solvent extracts of the fruits of Heracleum nepalense, from the hill region of Darjeeling District of West Bengal against larvae of Aedes albopictus, Skuse. Larval mortality was observed after 24 h, 48 h and 72 h of exposure. Almost all the solvent extracts of the plant showed some amount of mortality. Among them diethyl ether extract showed 100% mortality at 200 ppm within 24 h followed by n-hexane, acetone and methanol extracts. GC-MS analysis showed the presence of different types of terpenoids such as Cadina-1(10), 4 diene (5.44%) and caryophyllene oxide (1.28%) in diethyl ether extract and 5-Caranol, (1S,3R,5S,6R)-(−)- (12.8%) and alpha copaenes (2.19%) in methanolic extract. In addition, diethyl ether extract contained furanocoumarins [(R)-9-((3,3-Dimethyl-2-oxiranyl)methoxy)-4-methoxyfuro(3,2-g)chromen-7-one (18.11%), Bergapten (4.77%), Phellopterin (2.82%)] which are specially synthesized by plants to defend themselves against herbivores. The outcome of the present study revealed that fruits of Heracleum nepalense possess great potential to be used as larvicide against Aedes albopictus larvae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Dillenia pentagyna Roxb. (Dilleniaceae) is an endangered medicinal plant, commonly known as "agai" and distributed randomly in the Terai belt of North East states of India. D. Pentagyna extract has been studied for therapeutic possessions. Objective: The proximate parameters and high-performance thin layer chromatography (HPTLC) analysis in the same plant of D. pentagyna of four-time harvest stage during the maturation of fruits were studied and also the antihypoglycemic activity of hydroalcoholic extract of D. pentagyna fruit. Materials and Methods: The proximate compositions were determined by measuring the amount of water removed from the food AOAC method and the chemical fingerprinting was carried out by HPTLC method. An acute oral toxicity study was carried out in healthy male Wister rats (110 g). The dose was finally made to 200 and 400 mg/kg body weight for oral administration after the LD50 estimation. Results: The most phenolic concentration was continuously decrease with during the maturation of fruits. After 21 days of treatment, level of blood glucose, as well as albumin, protein, creatinine, urea, and uric acid were significantly decreased when compared with the diabetic control. Hydroalcoholic (80% alcohol to 20% DW) extracts will be subjected to further extensive studies to isolate and identify their active constituents which are useful for against antidiabetic. Conclusion: D. pentagyna fruit could act as a source of functional compounds for the control of diabetes mellitus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Helicobacter pylori is a Gram-negative bacteria that enter the body and start living in the digestive tract and, as the years pass by, they form ulcers in stomach and small intestine. H. pylori attacks the lining of stomach and damages it due to which acid gets through it forming ulcer. Andrographis echioides is an annual herb which is present throughout South India. Compounds derived from plants have played an important role in the development of several clinically useful anticancer agents. Materials and Methods: Andrographis echioides fruit powder was extracted with methanol in a Soxhlet apparatus for 8-16 h and silver nanoparticles were prepared and treated with Helicobacter pylori with varying concentrations. Urease activity was determined and urease inhibition by the extract was calculated. Results and Conclusion: From the results it is evident that Andrographis echioides fruit extract can be used as an anti-ulcer and antibacterial agent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • A greener, cost-effective, ecological and simple method to synthesize AgNPs has been demonstrated in this work. • Phytochemical content evaluated, which may act as a reducing and capping agent for the biosynthesis of AgNPs. • The morphology and characterization of the biosynthesized AgNPs were carried out using FTIR, UV–vis spectroscopy, XRD, SEM, TEM, SAED and EDX studies. • Anti-bacterial study suggested that the AgNPs have the potential for biomedical applications. Biosynthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) has been reported in this study using the Ethanol extract of Alpinia galanga rhizome and Rhus semialata fruit found in Nagaland, India. The black solid phase obtained after the termination of the reaction was collected as the synthesized AgNPs which were then characterized through FT-IR, UV–vis spectroscopy, XRD, SEM, TEM, SAED and EDX studies. XRD studies revealed the nanocrystalline phase and cubic structure of the synthesized AgNPs. The particle size of the synthesized AgNPs ranged from 10.732 nm to 34.927 nm with an average diameter of 17.625 nm for Alpinia galanga extract and 10.264 nm to 16.441 nm with an average diameter of 7.289 nm for Rhus semialata extract. The phytochemical screening and FT-IR spectra revealed the presence of carbohydrate, flavonoid, phenol, protein, and tannin. The antibacterial activity of the synthesized AgNPs was also investigated in vitro showing a comparable activity against Bacillus subtilis , Escherichia coli , Klebsiella pneumonia, and Staphylococcus aureus. Maximum inhibition was shown by AgNPs of Rhus semialata extract against Bacillus subtilis with an inhibition zone of 15 mm. The antibacterial study showed promising results for their possible application in the pharmaceutical and medical industries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Red-fleshed dragon fruit offers an array of bioactive compounds. Its cultivation is gaining momentum in India, including in arid and semi-arid conditions. Among various factors, the fruit developmental stages and climatic conditions of locations greatly influence the biosynthesis and actual contents of different bioactive compounds and mineral contents of the fruit. The changes in physical attributes, and bioactive and mineral content in red-fleshed dragon fruit grown in semi-arid conditions in India were assessed and quantified at six developmental stages. Significant changes occurred in the physical attributes of the fruit and the bioactive compounds and mineral content during the fruit maturation stages of the red-fleshed dragon fruit. The fruit physical characteristics, such as fruit size, fruit and pulp weight gain, peel thickness, and fruit firmness, along with eating quality parameters, such as soluble solids, sugars, acidity and soluble proteins, were observed at optimum at 35 days after anthesis (DAA). The decrease in total phenolics (29.96%), total flavonoids (41.06%), and vitamin C (75.3%) occurred throughout the fruit development stages, whereas the content of betalains, which was detected initially at 25 DAA, increased (48.6%) with the progression of the fruit development stages. However, the antioxidant capacity and free radical scavenging activity demonstrated variable trends throughout the fruit maturation period. There was an increasing trend in all the minerals up to 35 days, followed by a slight decrease, except for phosphorus content, which increased until the last stage of evaluation. The colour characteristics, in conjunction with the bioactive and antioxidant potential determined in the present study, suggest that red-fleshed dragon fruit can be harvested at 35 DAA for long-distance transportation, and from 35 to 40 DAA for local marketing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The fruits of Elaeocarpus floribundus Blume are edible and traditionally used for the treatment of dysentery and diarrhoea. • Ethanolic fruit extract exhibited good antimicrobial activity and ethyl acetate fraction showed the most active fraction. • The phytochemical investigation of the compounds associated with the antimicrobial activity of the ethyl acetate fraction. • Ethyl acetate fraction yielded seven compounds from the fruits for the first time. • Dibutyl succinate (1) was the most active compound among the isolated compounds. The fruits of Elaeocarpus floribundus Blume are edible and used for the treatment of dysentery and diarrhoea, a claim of which no scientific studies have validated and whose bioactive principles are unknown. Therefore, the present study centres in the evaluation of the antimicrobial activity of the ethanolic crude extract, fractions and the identification of its active constituents. The antimicrobial activity of the crude extract, fractions and the isolated compounds were determined using the broth microdilution method. Folin-Ciocalteu and aluminium chloride assays were utilized to determine the total phenolic and flavonoid contents. Respectively, while the essential minerals were determined using an atomic absorption spectrometer. The crude extract exhibited significant antimicrobial activity, while the ethyl acetate fraction was the most active against the microorganisms among the fractions. The purification of this bioactive fraction yielded seven compounds which are reported for the first time from this source. Dibutyl succinate (1) exhibited the highest growth inhibitory activity with MIC values of 60, 80, 90 μg/mL against S. dysenteriae , C. albicans , and B. subtilis, respectively. The elemental analysis of the fruit revealed it to be a good source of essential elements. This study indicates that dibutyl succinate (1) can be considered as the main bioactive compound in the fruits of E. floribundus. Therefore, it can be further studied for the treatment of diarrhoea in vivo. These results thereby affirm the traditional uses of the fruits of E. floribundus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fossil fuel depletion and strict government regulations have necessitated the finding of alternatives to conventional fuel sources. The growing population and better transport are increasing the need for energy every day. The pollution and disposal of agriculture and food waste are still serious problems to be tackled. Bioethanol has proved an alternative to S.I. engine diesel and gasoline. 10% ethanol blending is widely used by passenger cars worldwide and countries such as India have announced the implementation of a 20% ethanol blending in petrol. As a result, demand for ethanol is growing and there is inadequate bioethanol supply to meet demand. This paper portrays the extraction of ethanol from the waste pomegranate fruits and effect of its different blends on the spark ignited engine performance. Ethanol was extracted using fermentation and steam distillation processes from waste pomegranate fruit. Four blends were prepared on volumetric basis and tested for various performance and emission parameters at a constant compression ratio of 10:1 and wide-open throttle at various engine speeds. Indicated power, volumetric efficiency, and mechanical efficiency were improved by ethanol enrichment. Enrichments of ethanol decrease emissions of HC, CO and CO 2 , however increase nitrogen oxide emissions. The engine performance was found optimal for WPFE15 among all fuel blend studied. This study recommends the use of waste pomegranate fruits as a source for production of second-generation ethanol if after treatments be performed to reduce NOx emissions. This study proposes the use of waste pomegranate fruits for second-generation ethanol processing, if NOx pollution after treatment is carried out. • The first study on waste pomegranate fruit ethanol on SI engine performance. • Outcome will provide alternative source for ethanol production. • Different ethanol blends were prepared and tested. • Improved engine performance and emissions (HC, CO and CO 2 reduce while NOX increases) with ethanol addition. • Outcome will help in solid waste management and pollution control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The green synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) has currently been gaining wide applications in the medical field of nanomedicine. Green synthesis is one of the most effective procedures for the production of AgNPs. The Diospyros malabarica tree grown throughout India has been reported to have antioxidant and various therapeutic applications. In the context of this, we have investigated the fruit of Diospyros malabarica for the potential of forming AgNPs and analyzed its antibacterial and anticancer activity. We have developed a rapid, single-step, cost-effective and eco-friendly method for the synthesis of AgNPs using Diospyros malabarica aqueous fruit extract at room temperature. The AgNPs began to form just after the reaction was initiated. The formation and characterization of AgNPs were confirmed by UV-Vis spectrophotometry, XRD, FTIR, DLS, Zeta potential, FESEM, EDX, TEM and photoluminescence (PL) methods. The average size of AgNPs, in accordance with TEM results, was found to be 17.4 nm. The antibacterial activity of the silver nanoparticles against pathogenic microorganism strains of Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli was confirmed by the well diffusion method and was found to inhibit the growth of the bacteria with an average zone of inhibition size of (8.4 ± 0.3 mm and 12.1 ± 0.5 mm) and (6.1 ± 0.7 mm and 13.1 ± 0.5 mm) at 500 and 1000 µg/mL concentrations of AgNPs, respectively. The anticancer effect of the AgNPs was confirmed by MTT assay using the U87-MG (human primary glioblastoma) cell line. The IC50 value was found to be 58.63 ± 5.74 μg/mL. The results showed that green synthesized AgNPs exhibited significant antimicrobial and anticancer potency. In addition, nitrophenols, which are regarded as priority pollutants by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA), can also be catalytically reduced to less toxic aminophenols by utilizing synthesized AgNPs. As a model reaction, AgNPs are employed as a catalyst in the reduction of 4-nitrophenol to 4-aminophenol, which is an intermediate for numerous analgesics and antipyretic drugs. Thus, the study is expected to help immensely in the pharmaceutical industries in developing antimicrobial drugs and/or as an anticancer drug, as well as in the cosmetic and food industries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The fruits of Spondias mangifera (S. mangifera) have traditionally been used for the management of rheumatism in the northeast region of India. The present study explores the probable anti-arthritis and anti-inflammatory potential of S. mangifera fruit extract's ethanolic fraction (EtoH-F). To support this study, we first approached the parameters in silico by means of the active constituents of the plant (beta amyrin, beta sitosterol, oleonolic acid and co-crystallised ligands, i.e., SPD-304) via molecular docking on COX-1, COX-2 and TNF-α. Thereafter, the absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion and toxicity properties were also determined, and finally experimental activity was performed in vitro and in vivo. The in vitro activities of the plant extract fractions were evaluated by means of parameters like 1,1-Diphenyl-2- picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), free radical-reducing potential, albumin denaturation, and protease inhibitory activity. The in vivo activity was evaluated using parameters like COX, TNF-α and IL-6 inhibition assay and arthritis score in Freund Adjuvant (CFA) models at a dose of 400 mg/kg b.w. per day of different fractions (hexane, chloroform, alcoholic). The molecular docking assay was performed on COX-1, COX-2 and TNF-α. The results of in vitro studies showed concentration-dependent reduction in albumin denaturation, protease inhibitors and scavenging activity at 500 µg/mL. Administration of the S. mangifera alcoholic fraction at the abovementioned dose resulted in a significant reduction (p < 0.01) in arthritis score, paw diameters, TNF-α, IL-6 as compared to diseased animals. The docking results showed that residues show a critical binding affinity with TNF-α and act as the TNF-α antagonist. The alcoholic fraction of S. mangifera extract possesses beneficial effects on rheumatoid arthritis as well as anti-inflammatory potential, and can further can be used as a possible agent for novel target-based therapies for the management of arthritis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gardenia latifolia Ait. (Rubiaceae) is also known as Indian Boxwood is a small deciduous tree often growing in southern states of India. In the present study, phytochemical profiling of methanolic extract of G. latifolia fruits were carried out using FTIR and LC-MS/MS analysis. Besides, its antioxidant and antimicrobial potential have been analysed using DPPH activity, differential pulse voltammetry and resazurin microtiter assay, respectively. Phytochemical profiling revealed the presence of 22 major diversified compounds and main were 3-caffeoyl quinic acid (chlorogenic acid), 3,4-Di-O-caffeoyl quinic acid, 6-O-trans-feruloylgenipin gentiobioside, 10-(6-O-trans sinapoyl glucopyranosyl) gardendiol, isoquercitrin, scortechinones, secaubryenol, iridoids and quercetin 3-rutinoside (rutin). The extract showed antioxidant activity (IC50 = 65.82) and powerful antibacterial activity with lowest minimum inhibitory concentration against Gram-positive Staphylococcus aureus (15.62 µg/µL), Bacillus subtilis (31.25 µg/µL) than gram negative Escherichia coli (62.5 µg/µL), Klebsiella pneumoniae (62.5 µg/µL), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (31.25 µg/µL). This study shows that the fruits of G. latifolia have tremendous potential to be used in food industries, phyto-therapeutics and cosmetic industries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]