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This paper aimed to screen the enzymatic activities and evaluate the carotenoid production level of twenty-two halophilic archaea isolated from Sfax solar saltern sediments. The molecular identification performed by sequencing the 16S rRNA genes showed that all strains have a high similarity degree (99.7-100%) with Halobacterium salinarum NRC-1. The strains were screened for the presence of eight hydrolase activities using agar plate-based assays. The most detected enzyme was gelatinase (77.27% of total strains), followed by protease (63.63%) and amylase activities (50%). The carotenoid production yields of the strains ranged between 2.027 and 14.880 mg/l. The UV-Visible spectroscopy of pigments revealed that it was a bacterioruberin type. When evaluated and compared to the standard β-carotene, the antioxidant capacities of these pigments showed a scavenging activity of more than 75% at a concentration of 5 μg/ml for three strains (AS16, AS17, and AS18). Then a sequence of one-step optimization processes was performed, using the one-factor-at-a-time approach, to define the optimum conditions for growth and carotenoid production of the highest carotenoid producing strain (AS17). Different environmental factors and nutritional conditions were tested. Variations in these factors were found to deeply influence growth and carotenoid production. A maximum carotenoid production (16.490 mg/l), higher than that of the control (14.880 mg/l), was observed at 37 °C, pH 7, 250 g/l of salinity, with 80% air phase in the flask at 110 rpm, in presence of light and in culture media containing (g/l) 10, yeast extract; 7.5, casamino acid; 20, MgSO

Resume Introduction L’epaisseur du detrusor (ED) et l’index de protrusion prostatique (IPP) sont etroitement lies a l’obstruction sous vesicale. Le but de notre etude etait d’evaluer le lien entre ces parametres echographiques et le debit urinaire maximal (Qmax) chez les malades suivis pour hyperplasie benigne de la prostate. Methodes Il s’agit d’une etude prospective observationnelle incluant des patients de plus de 50 ans suivis pour hyperplasie benigne de la prostate. Nous avons evalue la severite des troubles mictionnels par International Prostatic Symptom Score (IPSS). Une echographie pelvienne a ete faite a tous les patients pour evaluer le volume prostatique, le volume de repletion vesical, le residu post mictionnel, l’ED et l’IPP. Tous les patients ont eu une debimetrie, avec evaluation du Qmax. Un Qmax inferieur ou egal a 15 ml/s etait considere pathologique. Nous avons recherche des correlations entre ED, IPP et le Qmax. Resultats Soixante malades ont ete inclus dans notre etude. Nous avons mis en evidence une forte correlation negative entre l’ED, l’IPP et le Qmax (r= −0,59, r= −0,61 respectivement). Les patients dont le Qmax etait pathologique avaient une ED et une IPP plus elevees que ceux avec un Qmax normal, les differences etaient significatives (p Conclusion L’epaisseur du detrusor et l’index de protrusion prostatique presentent une forte correlation negative avec le Qmax. Ces parametres echographiques pourraient dispenser de la mesure du Qmax en cas d’impossibilite de realiser une debimetrie. Niveau de preuve Grade B.

Introduction: Post-traumatic rupture of the posterior urethra is a serious injury that can compromise the micturition and erectile prognosis of the often-young patient. The management of this lesion is still controversial, leaving the choice between early endoscopic realignment or suprapubic catheterization with deferred urethroplasty. The objective of this study was to report our clinical experience and outcomes with early endoscopic realignment (EER) for patients with pelvic fracture urethral injury. Patients and Methods: We underwent a retrospective review of patients with pelvic fracture associated urethral injury who underwent EER from 2010 to 2020. Preoperative, perioperative, and postoperative outcome data were collected. Complications for the surgical procedure was analyzed, as well as post-operative stenosis, urinary incontinence and erectile dysfunction. The primary endpoint was success, defined as satisfying micturition with no urethral stricture at the time of last follow up. Results: A total of 26 patients underwent primary endoscopic realignment. The median duration from injury to EER was 15.4 ± 10.25 hours. No patient experienced complications from endoscopic realignment. EER was successful in 16 patients (61.53%) at a median follow up of 34 months (18–54). Ten patients (38.46%) developed a urethral stricture during follow up. Seven patients (26.92%) were treated by one or two direct visual internal urethrotomy. Only 3 patients (11.53%) required urethroplasty. There were no urethroplasty failure after previous EER. Two patients (7.69%) reported stress urinary incontinence after EER. Four patients (15.88%) developed de novo erectile dysfunction. Conclusion: Early endoscopic realignment allows some patients to avoid a heavier surgical treatment, and doesn’t compromise the realization of a later urethroplasty.

Salinity stress has significant deleterious effects on agricultural lands and plant yields. Plants undergo a series of physiological and molecular changes to reduce salt-induced damage. However, these mechanisms remain insufficient. The inoculation of plant growth promoting bacteria to improve plant health under stress conditions offers promise. Bacillus velezensis FMH2 has been shown to protect tomato fruits against black mold disease and to improve seed tolerance to abiotic stresses. During this study, the major physiological and metabolic changes connected with FMH2 mitigation of abiotic stress tolerance in tomato plants were explored. In presence of different salt levels, FMH2 showed a high potentiality to colonize internal plant tissues and to produce several plant growth promoting metabolites such as siderophores, indole acetic acid, and hydrolytic enzymes. FMH2-treatment promoted plant growth (root structure, plant elongation, leaf emission, fresh and dry weights, water content, etc.) in absence as well as in presence of salt stress. FMH2 treatment decreased endogenous Na+ accumulation and increased K+ and Ca2+ uptake. Furthermore, B. velezensis FMH2-treatment improved chlorophyll contents, membrane integrity and phenol peroxidase concentrations, and reduced malondialdehyde and hydrogen peroxide levels under saline conditions with a significant salinity × strain interaction. The present study suggests the endophytic strain FMH2 involved different mechanisms and regulatory functions to enhance plant oxidative systems and regulate ion uptake mechanisms supporting both growth and stress management.

The current study focuses on the tolerance of a strain of Halobacterium salinarum isolated from Sfax solar saltern (Tunisia) towards cadmium (Cd), lead (Pb), nickel (Ni), zinc (Zn), and copper (Cu) by using agar dilution methods in complex and minimal media. The results showed the least inhibitory metals based on Minimum Inhibitory Concentrations (MICs) were lead (MIC = 4.5 mM), cadmium (MIC = 4 mM), and nickel (MIC = 2.5 mM) in complex medium. The MICs of these metals were more inhibitory (MIC

The draft genome sequences of five archaeal strains, isolated from Sfax solar saltern sediments and affiliated with Halobacterium salinarum, were analyzed in order to reveal their adaptive strategies to live in hypersaline environments polluted with heavy metals. The genomes of the strains (named AS1, AS2, AS8, AS11, and AS19) are found to contain 2,060,688; 2,467,461; 2,236,624; 2,432,692; and 2,428,727 bp respectively, with a G + C content of 65.5, 66.0, 67.0, and 66.2%. The majority of these genes (43.69-55.65%) are annotated as hypothetical proteins. Growth under osmotic stress is possible by genes coding for potassium uptake, sodium efflux, and kinases, as well as stress proteins, DNA repair systems, and proteasomal components. These strains harbor many genes responsible for metal transport/resistance, such as: copper-translocating P-type ATPases, ABC transporter, and cobalt-zinc-cadmium resistance protein. In addition, detoxification enzymes and secondary metabolites are also identified. The results show strain AS1, as compared to the other strains, is more adapted to heavy metals and may be used in the bioremediation of multi-metal contaminated environments. This study highlights the presence of several commercially valuable bioproducts (carotenoids, retinal proteins, exopolysaccharide, stress proteins, squalene, and siderophores) and enzymes (protease, sulfatase, phosphatase, phosphoesterase, and chitinase) that can be used in many industrial applications.

We report the case of a 58-year-old male with a history of diabetes who presented with a macroscopic hematuria. On physical examination, he was afebrile. Investigations revealed an anemia. A CT scan showed a tumor of the bladder and upper excretory system with multiple lung, spleen and liver metastases. The patient received blood transfusions and a trans-urethral resection of the tumor was performed. The patient’s condition later deteriorated and skin lesions appeared on the back and the scalp. A biopsy of the lesions confirmed their metastatic nature. The patient’s condition deteriorated and he died 4 weeks later.

Detrusor thickness (DT) and intravesical prostatic protrusion (IPP) are closely related to bladder outlet obstruction. The aim of our study was to look for correlation between DT, IPP and maximum urinary flow (Qmax).It is a prospective, observational study including men over fifty managed for benign prostatic hyperplasia. Low urinary tract symptoms were assessed with the International Prostatic Symptom Score (IPSS). Pelvic ultrasound was performed for all patients measuring prostatic volume, bladder volume, post- void residual, DT and IPP. Uroflowmetry was performed for all patients, Qmax was noted. Qmax equal or less than 15ml/s was considered pathologic.Sixty patients were included for our study. Strong negative correlation was noted between DT, IPP and Qmax (r=-0.59, r=-0.61 respectively). Patients with pathologic Qmax had higher DT and IPP than those with normal Qmax, the difference was significant (P0.01). Threshold values predicting pathologic Qmax were 3mm for DT and 7mm for IPP. ROC analysis reveals for DT an AUC of 0.84 (95% CI 0.76-0.92) and for IPP an AUC of 0.88 (95% CI 0.80-0.97).Detrusor thickness and intravesical prostatic protrusion have strong negative correlation with Qmax. These parameters could be an alternative to Qmax measurement if uroflowmetry is unavailable.Grade B.

Herein we report the reaction of 2-(5-aryl-4H-1,2,4-triazol-3-yl)acetonitriles 1 a,b with appropriate Michael acceptors 2–4 to give novel [1,2,4]triazolo[1,5-a]pyridines 5–8, whose antioxidant properties have been investigated. A plausible reaction mechanism, supported by DFT calculations, has been proposed to explain the total observed regioselective formation of [1,2,4]triazolo[1,5-a]pyridine derivatives depending on the type of substituents on the Michael acceptor. Triazoles are well-known agents exhibiting antimicrobial, antitumor, anti-inflammatory, antihypertensive, anticonvulsant, antiviral and analgesic biological activities. On the other hand, pyridine is the key core of heterocyclic derivatives showing a variety of pharmacological properties. Several studies have revealed that a combination of different bioactive molecules, having different mechanisms of action, is a current strategy affording useful therapeutic agents. This is the case of the [1,2,4]triazolo[1,5-a] pyridine heterocyclic motif, present in a number of bioactive compounds, and largely used in materials chemistry. Accordingly, diverse synthetic methods have been described for the synthesis of differently substituted [1,2,4]triazolo[1,5-a]pyridines. Our group has recently reported the ultrasound-promoted facile and convenient “one-pot” procedure for the synthesis of novel [1,2,4]triazolo[1,5-a]pyridines in short reaction times and high yields, based on the reaction of 2-(5-aryl-4H-1,2,4-triazol-3-yl)acetonitriles, malononitrile (or ethyl cyanoacetate) and aromatic aldehydes, in absolute ethanol, in the presence of IRA-400..

The use of compost extracts is steadily increasing, offering an attractive way for plant growth enhancement and disease management replacing chemical pesticides. In this study, potential mechanisms involved in plant growth promotion and suppressive activity against fungal diseases, of a compost extract produced from poultry manure/olive husk compost, were investigated. Results of physico-chemical and microbiological investigations showed high ability to reduce Fusarium oxysporum, Alternaria alternata, Aspergillus niger and Botrytis cinerea growth. The suppressive ability detected using confrontation test and the phytostimulatory effect tested on tomato seeds were related mainly to its microbial population content. Among 150 bacterial strains, isolated from the compost extract, 13 isolates showed antifungal activity against the four tested plant pathogenic fungi. Their identification based on 16S rRNA gene sequence revealed they belonged to different species of the genus Bacillus, Alcaligenes, Providencia and Ochrobactrum. When tested for their ability to produce cell wall degradation enzymes using specific media, the majority of the 13 isolates were shown to synthesize proteases, lipases and glucanases. Similarly, the best part of them showed positive reaction for plant growth promoting substances liberation, biosurfactant production and biofilm formation. In vivo tests were carried out using tomato seeds and fruits and proved that 92% of strains improved tomato plants vigor indexes when compared to the control and 6 among them were able to reduce decay severity caused by B. cinerea over 50%. Principal component analysis showed an important correlation between in vitro and in vivo potentialities and that Bacillus siamensis CEBZ11 strain was statistically the most effective strain in protecting tomato plants from gray mould disease. This study revealed the selected strains would be useful for plant pathogenic fungi control and plant growth promotion.

A series of Amidrazones, Triazoles, Thiatriazole and Triazine derivatives was synthesized, and their antibacterial and antioxidant activities were evaluated. Biological screening showed that the majority of the compounds possess a moderate antibacterial activity and a significant antioxidant effects. In order to further research the compound 3a, the crystal structure was detected by X-ray diffraction. Meanwhile, the structural assignments of the new products were done on the basis of IR, 1H NMR, 13C NMR, elemental analysis and HRMS (ESI) spectroscopy.

Over the last few decades, Rumex species have been recognized as a promising source of new compounds with numerous pharmacological activities. Therefore, the antioxidant activity of Rumex tingitanus (R. tingitanus) leaves extracts was evaluated in vitro and then confirmed in vivo as well as the antidepressant-like and toxicological effects of the extracts. The ethyl acetate fraction (Rt EtOAcF) followed by hydroalcoholic extract (Rt EtOH-H2O) showed a remarkable in vitro antioxidant activity. The hydroalcoholic extract (Rt EtOH-H2O) showed significant hepatoprotective activity against carbon tetrachloride- (CCl4-) induced liver toxicity which is seen from inhibition of the malondialdehyde (MDA) accumulation and enhancement of the liver antioxidant enzymes activities. The Rt EtOH-H2O and Rt EtOAcF extracts were able to reduce the immobility time in mice and then elicited a significant antidepressant-like effect. The ethyl acetate fraction (Rt EtOAcF) was purified and resulted in the identification of a new antioxidant component called 4′-p-acetylcoumaroyl luteolin. The Rt EtOAcF and the 4′-p-acetylcoumaroyl luteolin revealed a strong antioxidant activity using DPPH test with IC50 of 11.7 ± 0.2 and 20.74 ± 0.6 μg/ml, respectively, and AAI of 3.39 and 1.92 better than that of BHT, used as control.

This study was undertaken to investigate the antibacterial and antifungal activities of Rumex tingitanus leaves extracts as well as the identification of bioactive components and their performance in meat preservation. Total phenolics and flavonoids showed the highest content of phenolics and flavonoids in the ethyl acetate fraction (Rt EtOAcF). For antimicrobial efficacy, leaves extract and derived fraction were tested for their capacity to inhibit bacterial and fungal proliferation in vitro and in vivo . The ethyl acetate fraction showed the most potent antibacterial and antifungal activities compared to the others extracts. Thus, the efficacy of this extract to inhibit the proliferation of Listeria monocytogenes in minced beef meat model was examined. This fraction eradicates the L. monocytogenes population in meat in a concentration- and time-dependent manner. A bio-guided purification of the Rt EtOAc fraction resulted in the isolation of the compound responsible for the observed antimicrobial activity. This compound was identified as luteolin by analysis of spectroscopic data. Chemical compounds isolated in this article Luteolin (PubChem CID: 5280445); p -iodonitrotetrazolium chloride (PubChem CID: 64957); Amphotericin B (PubChem CID: 5280965); Gentamicin and (PubChem CID: 6419933); Hexane (PubChem CID: 8058); Methanol (PubChem CID: 887); Ethanol (PubChem CID: 702); Dimethylsulfoxide (PubChem CID: 679); Quercetin (PubChem CID: 5280343); Gallic acid (PubChem CID: 370).

Hexane, ethyl acetate and methanol extracts of Onopordum espinae leaves were investigated for their antibacterial activities against Bacillus cereus, Staphylococcus aureus, Enterococcus faecalis, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Salmonella enteritidis. Hexane and ethyl acetate extracts were toxic to Gram-positive bacteria with inhibition zone diameters ranging between 12 and 30 mm. Two products, hispidulin 1, and dehydromelitensin-8-(4ꞌ-hydroxy-methacrylate) 2 were isolated from the ethyl acetate extract of leaves and identified by 2D-NMR for the first time from this species. Ethyl acetate extractꞌs total flavonoid content was the highest, as 78.73 mg quercetin equivalents (QE)/g. The methanol extract showed the highest total phenolic content as 243.43 mg gallic acid equivalents (GAE)/g and gave the most important 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH)scavenging activity (EC50 = 86 µg/mL).

The uses of halotolerant bacteria isolated from naturally saline habitats have the potential to be useful crop protection agents for plants in stressful conditions. These beneficial microbes generate several plant growth regulators and bioactive molecules, which enhance plant protection from adversities, such as plant pathogens, salts and metals stresses. In this study, 15 halotolerant bacterial strains endowed with important antimicrobial activities were isolated from Sfax solar saltern (Tunisia). All of these strains were characterized by biochemical and molecular tools aiming to investigate their in-vitro and in-vivo antifungal potentialities, plant growth promotion capabilities and metal tolerance abilities under saline stress condition. The 16S rRNA gene sequencing showed that the isolated strains were affiliated to different phylum and three species were described for the first time as plant growth promoting strains (Idiomarina zobelli FMH6v, Nesterenkonia halotolerans FMH10 and Halomonas janggokensis FMH54). The tested strains exhibited several potentialities: to tolerate high salt and heavy metal concentrations, to produce biosurfactants, exopolysaccharides and extracellular hydrolytic enzymes, to form biofilms and to liberate plant promoting substances. Eight strains were able to protect tomatoes fruits from the proliferation of the fungal disease caused by Botrytis cinerea and six strains improved plant vigor indexes. Principal component analysis showed an important correlation between in-vitro and in-vivo potentialities and two strains Bacillus velezensis FMH2 and Bacillus subtilis subsp. spizizenii FMH45 were statistically considered as the most effective strains in protecting plants from fungal pathogens attack and promoting the growth of tomatoes seedlings under saline and multi heavy-metals stress conditions.

The present study aimed to investigate the acaricidal properties of six essential oils. They were extracted from some plant species (LamiaceaeandMyrtaceae) using the technique of hydrodistillation with the Clevenger apparatus. The chemical compositions of the essential oils under study were determined by gas chromatography–mass spectrometer (GC-MS). An Adult Immersion Test (AIT) and a Larval Immersion Test (LIT) were used to evaluate the acaricidal activity of these essential oils against the adults and larvae ofHyalomma scupense. GC-MS analysis showed the major constituents of each essential oil: 25.49% ofα-thujone (lavender); 46.82% of carvacrol (oregano); 78.78% of carvacrol (thyme); 40.27% of 1,8-cineole (blue gum); 17.45% of p-cymene (river red gum); and 26.96% of 1,8-cineole (rosemary). The biotests on the essential oils revealed that they inhibit the reproduction ofH. scupenseengorged females at a rate of 100 % with doses of 0.781 μl/ml of rosemary, 1.562 μl/ml of thyme, 3.125 μl/ml of lavender and oregano, and 6.250 μl/ml of blue gum and river red gum. After a treatment that lasted for 24 hours, essential oils showed a larvicidal activity with respective values of lethal concentrations (LC): LC50, LC90, and LC95(0.058, 0.358, and 0.600 μl/ml for thyme; 0.108, 0.495, and 0.761 μl/ml for rosemary; 0.131, 0.982, and 1.740 μl/ml for oregano; 0.155, 2.387, and 5.183 μl/ml for blue gum; 0.207, 1.653, and 2.978 μl/ml for river red gum; and 0.253, 2.212, and 4.092 μl/ml for lavender). This is the first report on the acaricidal activity of these essential oils againstH. scupense.The results obtained showed that the essential oils with chemotype carvacrol, 1,8-cineole,α-thujone, and p-cymene are highly acaricidal, and they can be used for ticks control. However, further studies on their toxicity in nontarget organisms are required.

In a previous study, Bacillus amyloliquefaciens strain CEIZ-11 has been isolated from a compost extract and showed a broad spectrum of antifungal activity against various plant pathogenic fungi. The potential of Bacillus genus to antagonize phytopathogens is due to the production of some metabolites, mainly cyclic lipopeptides. In the present study, polymerase chain reaction was used to screen CEIZ-11 for genes involved in biosynthesis of lipopeptides. Amplicons of expected sizes were detected as ituC and ituD, srfp and fenD involved in iturin, surfactin and fengycin synthesis respectively. Lipopeptides, extracted by acid precipitation of culture filtrate, exhibited strong antifungal activity with MIC values ranging from 9.8 to 156 μg/mL and an excellent stability to high temperature (20 min at 121 °C) and a large range of pH, 2–11. The crude lipopeptides was subjected to reverse phase high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Five major fractions were detected. Each fraction was further purified by revered phase C18 analytical column. Identification of individual fractions was done by liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectroscopy. Three families of lipopeptides were detected including three homologues of iturin A (A2, A3-5 and A6), one fengycin A having fatty acyl chain length of C16 and one surfactin (C12). To evaluate the potential application of B. amyloliquefaciens strain CEIZ-11 to control damping-off, tomato was used as model. The pot experiments results showed that CEIZ-11 could be a promising agent in biocontrol of damping-off.

This study describes the antimicrobial and antioxidant activities of the extracts of Hammada scoparia (H. scoparia) and its major alkaloids. Total phenolic content showed that the hydroethanolic extract has the highest phenolic concentration (75.32 mg GAE/g) followed by methanolic extract (59.75 mg GAE/g) and the dichloromethane one with a concentration of 35.23 mg GAE/g. The antioxidant activities exhibited by the hydroethanolic extract and the organic ones were assessed by three methods 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), β-carotene–linoleic acid system, and reducing activity. The hydroethanolic extract showed the highest scavenging activity (EC50 = 24 μg/mL) and a strong β-carotene–linoleate inhibition, better than the activities of the organic extracts. All the extracts, except of the hexane one, showed antibacterial activity against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative microorganisms with diameter inhibition zones ranged from 8 to 30 mm. The fractionation of the crude extract of H. scoparia afforded two major compounds, carnegine (1) and N-methylisosalsoline (2). The study of their antimicrobial activity showed that the carnegine was more active with minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimal bactericidal concentration (MBC) ranging from 0.125 to 0.5 mg/mL and 0.25–2 mg/mL, respectively. The time-kill curves of carnegine showed a potent and rapid bactericidal activity. The investigation of the antioxidant activity of these two alkaloids showed that, contrarily to the carnegine, the N-methylisosalsoline exhibited an antioxidant activity. The structure–activity relationship of these alkaloids was discussed.

The increasing insect resistance against Bacillus thuringiensis delta-endotoxins is a serious problem which makes it urgent to look for new eco-friendly strategies. Combining these toxins with other biomolecules is one of the promising strategies against insect pests. In this work, we evaluated the bioinsecticidal potential of Rumex tingitanus extracts and B. thuringiensis strain BLB250 against Spodoptera littoralis (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) larvae. The chemical composition of the hexane extract, the most active fraction, was analyzed to validate the correlation between chemical composition and biological activity. Among the tested extracts, only the hexanic extract showed toxicity against first and second instar larvae with LC50 of 2.56 and 2.95 mg g−1, respectively. The Bacillus thuringiensis BLB250 delta-endotoxins showed toxicity with an LC50 of 56.3 μg g−1. Therefore, the investigated combinational effect of BLB250 delta-endotoxins and R. tingitanus hexane extract proved significant synergistic effect against S. littoralis larvae. The GC-MS analysis of R. tingitanus hexane extract showed the richness of this extract in phytosterols such as β and γ-sitosterol (48.91%), campesterol (6.43%), and β-amyrin (8.92%) which are known for their insecticidal activity. This novel finding highlights the potential use of this combination against insect pests to prevent the appearance of resistance problems.

This research assessed the seasonal variation of the chemical composition and antibacterial and anticholinesterase activities of essential oils extracted from M. longifolia leaves. The leaves organic fractions were also investigated for their biological activities and pharmacological functions. The essential oil highest yield was recorded in the spring season. Pulegone (26.92%), 1.8 cineole (21.3 %), and L-menthone (10.66 %) were determined as its major compounds in the winter season. In the spring oil, the main components were pulegone (38.2 %) and oleic and palmitic acids (23.79 % and 15. 26 %, respectively). Oxygenated monoterpenes were predominant in the two analyzed samples. The tested oils and organic extracts exhibited promising antibacterial effects against all of the tested bacterial strains. Thanks to its richness in phenolic and flavonoid compounds, the ethyl acetate fraction (Ml EtOAcF) displayed the most active DPPH scavenging ability (IC50 =12.64 μg/ml) and an interesting β-carotene bleaching inhibition (IC50 =34.75 μg/ml) making it a potential candidate for anti-inflammatory evaluation on rats. This evaluation evidenced that M. longifolia pretreated rats showed a marked decrease in paw oedema and inflammatory cells. Additionally, a remarkable acetylcholinesterase inhibitory activity of the Ml EtOAcF (IC50 = 12.3μg/ml) and essential oils were also observed suggesting their neuroprotective property against Alzheimer's disease. Moreover, it was found that its activity level was season dependent. Our investigation, therefore, clearly revealed the medicinal characteristics of M. longifolia leave indicating their potential uses for natural remedies.

Emex spinosa (L.) Campd. (E. spinosa) locally known as "hillaioua" has always been used in folk medicine for the treatment of inflammation and pain. It is still being exploited by pharmaceutical companies for its potential remedial effects.In this study, the effects of E. spinosa (L.) Campd. against acute inflammation, pain and oxidative damage were evaluated.Total phenols and flavonoids were evaluated. Anti-inflammatory and analgesic activities the E. spinosa ethyl acetate fractions of the aerial (Es EtOAc-AP) and underground (Es EtOAc-R) parts were assessed on carrageenan-induced paw oedema (100 mg/kg BW) and acetic acid-induced writhing response (50, 100 and 150 mg/kg BW), respectively. The E. spinosa fractions effects on oxidative stress markers and inflammatory parameters were determined. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis was performed to identify various chemical components.The ethyl acetate fractions were shown to be the most active thanks to their phenolic and flavonoid contents richness. Intraperitoneal administration of E. spinosa ethyl acetate fractions at 100 mg/kg BW, one hour before carrageenan injection, significantly inhibited the oedema formation by 89.31% and 97.7% for the aerial and underground parts respectively when compared to the reference drug "dexamethasone" (51.9%). Besides, a significant increase (p ≤ 0.001) of the dermal antioxidant enzymes (the superoxide dismutase (SOD)), catalase (CAT) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) was observed five hours after carrageenan administration. The best restoration was obtained with Es EtOAc-R (82.04%, 93.55% and 93.55% respectively for SOD, CAT and GPx activities). Moreover, EtOAc-fractions treated mice proved their ability to restore both of CRP and fibrinogen (p 0.001). In addition, E. spinosa EtOAc-fractions attenuated abdominal contractions (p 0.05) by 71.69% and 82.41% for the aerial part and roots respectively at 150 mg/kg BW against 100% for dichlofenac sodium used as standard drug. The phytochemical analysis of Es EtOAc-AP and Es EtOAc-R by GC-MS may explain the obtained results. The analysis of the fractions demonstrated the presence of palmitic and linoleic acids known for their anti-inflammatory and analgesic capacities.These findings explain the traditional use of E. spinosa in folk medicine and suggest that E. spinosa fractions could be a promising herbal drug.

This research assessed the seasonal variation of the chemical composition and antibacterial and anticholinesterase activities of essential oils extracted from M. longifolia leaves. The leaves organic fractions were also investigated for their biological activities and pharmacological functions. The essential oil highest yield was recorded in the spring season. Pulegone (26.92%), 1.8 cineole (21.3 %), and L-menthone (10.66 %) were determined as its major compounds in the winter season. In the spring oil, the main components were pulegone (38.2 %) and oleic and palmitic acids (23.79 % and 15. 26 %, respectively). Oxygenated monoterpenes were predominant in the two analyzed samples. The tested oils and organic extracts exhibited promising antibacterial effects against all of the tested bacterial strains. Thanks to its richness in phenolic and flavonoid compounds, the ethyl acetate fraction (Ml EtOAcF) displayed the most active DPPH scavenging ability (IC50 =12.64 μg/ml) and an interesting β-carotene bleaching inhibition (IC50 =34.75 μg/ml) making it a potential candidate for anti-inflammatory evaluation on rats. This evaluation evidenced that M. longifolia pretreated rats showed a marked decrease in paw oedema and inflammatory cells. Additionally, a remarkable acetylcholinesterase inhibitory activity of the Ml EtOAcF (IC50 = 12.3μg/ml) and essential oils were also observed suggesting their neuroprotective property against Alzheimer’s disease. Moreover, it was found that its activity level was season dependent. Our investigation, therefore, clearly revealed the medicinal characteristics of M. longifolia leave indicating their potential uses for natural remedies.

Juniperus phoenicea (J. phoenicea) is a wild tree belonging to the Cupressaceae family, commonly used for the treatment of several disorders. This study aimed to evaluate the potential protective effects of J. phoenicea hydroethanolic extract (EtOH-H2OE) against oxidation, acute inflammation, and pain in mice models. For the purpose, chemical compounds of J. phoenicea EtOH-H2OE were also analyzed by GC-MS. The J. phoenicea EtOH-H2OE showed a potent antioxidant activity in vitro, thanks to its richness in phenolic and flavonoid compounds. Mice treated with EtOH-H2OE (100 mg/kg BW) showed reduced paw oedema formation and decreased malondialdehyde (MDA) content. The evaluation of antioxidant enzyme activities in paw oedema tissue after five hours of carrageenan induction showed a significant increase (P<0.05). Inflammatory biomarkers explorations of J. phoenicea EtOH-H2OE-treated mice showed a restoration of the studied parameters to near-normal values. Furthermore, EtOH-H2OE of J. phoenicea produced a significant reduction of the number of abdominal writhes (P<0.05) in a dose-dependent way. Phytochemical analysis of the J. phoenicea EtOH-H2OE by GC-MS showed the presence of hexadecanoic and stearic acids known as anti-inflammatory and analgesic compounds. Our investigation provided evidence that J. phoenicea EtOH-H2OE can effectively reduce the inflammation and pain in mice models.

An efficient synthesis of new pyrrolopyrimidinones 3a-d and isoxazolopyrimidinones 4a-c from the respective aminocyanopyrroles 1a-d and aminocyanoisoxazoles 2a-c is presented. The synthesized compounds were screened for antimicrobial activity against a panel of bacteria and fungi. Compound 4c exhibits remarkable activity against a broad spectrum of Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria and pathogenic fungi.

Over the last few decades, Rumex species have been recognized as a promising source of new compounds with numerous pharmacological activities. Therefore, the antioxidant activity of Rumex tingitanus (R. tingitanus) leaves extracts was evaluated in vitro and then confirmed in vivo as well as the antidepressant-like and toxicological effects of the extracts. The ethyl acetate fraction (Rt EtOAcF) followed by hydroalcoholic extract (Rt EtOH-H2O) showed a remarkable in vitro antioxidant activity. The hydroalcoholic extract (Rt EtOH-H2O) showed significant hepatoprotective activity against carbon tetrachloride- (CCl4-) induced liver toxicity which is seen from inhibition of the malondialdehyde (MDA) accumulation and enhancement of the liver antioxidant enzymes activities. The Rt EtOH-H2O and Rt EtOAcF extracts were able to reduce the immobility time in mice and then elicited a significant antidepressant-like effect. The ethyl acetate fraction (Rt EtOAcF) was purified and resulted in the identification of a new antioxidant component called 4′-p-acetylcoumaroyl luteolin. The Rt EtOAcF and the 4′-p-acetylcoumaroyl luteolin revealed a strong antioxidant activity using DPPH test with IC50 of 11.7 ± 0.2 and 20.74 ± 0.6 μg/ml, respectively, and AAI of 3.39 and 1.92 better than that of BHT, used as control.

The present paper investigated the efficiency of Urtica dioica (U. dioica) on hemostatic and wound healing activities. U. dioica leaf extracts were evaluated for their antibacterial and antioxidant effects as well as their flavonoid and polyphenol content. The hydroethanolic extract (EtOH-H2OE), showing the most potent antibacterial and antioxidant activities in vitro, thanks to its flavonoid and polyphenol richness, was selected for hemostatic and wound healing evaluation. Twenty-four rats completing full-thickness wounds were split into four groups. The wounds were topically treated with saline solution, glycerol, “CICAFLORA,” and U. dioica EtOH-H2OE (50 µL/mm2) until day 11. The wound healing effect was assessed by macroscopic, histological, and biochemical parameters. Rats treated with EtOH-H2OE showed fast wound closure (92.39%) compared to the control animals (60.91%) on the 11th day of wounding (P < 0.01). Histopathological and biochemical explorations showed full epidermal regeneration and an improvement of the hydroxyproline content in the U. dioica EtOH-H2OE treated rats. Analysis of fatty acids and sterols by GC-MS showed the presence of unsaturated fatty acids and a high concentration of lupeol known for their involvement in reepithelialization. These results prove the efficiency of U. dioica EtOH-H2OE in wound healing and supported its traditional use.

This research investigated the Eucalyptus cinerea leaves efficiency in the Agrobacterium tumefaciens biocontrol, the causative agent of crown gall. GC-MS analysis of the essential oil (EO) showed that the main components were 1,8-cineole (61%) and camphene (15.13%). Thanks to its polyphenols, flavonoids, quinones, terpenoids, alkaloids, and tannins richness, the EtOAc-F exhibited the most potent antibacterial activity in vitro. Indeed, compared to the other fractions, it has the lowest MIC and MBC values of 0.312 mg/mL and 2.5 mg/mL, respectively. The GC-MS analysis of EtOAc-F confirmed its richness in antibacterial compounds including gallic acid (7.18%), shikimic acid (5.07%), and catechin (3.12%). The time-kill curve assay of EtOAc-F (2.5 mg/mL) showed a potent bactericidal effect after 20 min of direct contact with A. tumefaciens. In planta experiments, gall weights were significantly reduced when EtOAc-F was applied at 0.625 and 2.5 mg/wounds. Besides, the disease reduction rates in gall weight were 95% and 97.5%, respectively. Interestingly, no phytotoxic effect was observed since tomato seeds germinated in the presence of the different concentrations of EtOAc-F. These results suggest that EtOAc-F has a good potential to be a curative biocontrol agent for crown gall disease.

The present paper investigated the efficiency ofUrtica dioica (U. dioica)on hemostatic and wound healing activities.U. dioicaleaf extracts were evaluated for their antibacterial and antioxidant effects as well as their flavonoid and polyphenol content. The hydroethanolic extract (EtOH-H2OE), showing the most potent antibacterial and antioxidant activitiesin vitro, thanks to its flavonoid and polyphenol richness, was selected for hemostatic and wound healing evaluation. Twenty-four rats completing full-thickness wounds were split into four groups. The wounds were topically treated with saline solution, glycerol, “CICAFLORA,” andU. dioicaEtOH-H2OE (50 µL/mm2) until day 11. The wound healing effect was assessed by macroscopic, histological, and biochemical parameters. Rats treated with EtOH-H2OE showed fast wound closure (92.39%) compared to the control animals (60.91%) on the 11th day of wounding (P<0.01). Histopathological and biochemical explorations showed full epidermal regeneration and an improvement of the hydroxyproline content in theU. dioicaEtOH-H2OE treated rats. Analysis of fatty acids and sterols by GC-MS showed the presence of unsaturated fatty acids and a high concentration of lupeol known for their involvement in reepithelialization. These results prove the efficiency ofU. dioicaEtOH-H2OE in wound healing and supported its traditional use.

A straightforward method has been developed for the synthesis of 1,2,4-triazol-3-one 3 and 1,2,4-triazoles 6a, 6b, 6c, 6d starting from N1-substituted-N1-tosylhydrazonates 2 and hydrazine monohydrate. This methodology affords a number of 1,2,4-triazol-3-one 3 and 1,2,4-triazoles 6a, 6b, 6c, 6d in reasonable yields. The structures of all new compounds were elucidated using infrared, 1H and 13C NMR, high-resolution mass spectrometry, elemental analysis, and the X-ray crystallography (for compounds 3 and 6a). Some of the newly synthesized compounds were screened for their antibacterial activity.

A straightforward method has been developed for the synthesis of 1-phenyl-imidazo [2,1-c][1,2,4]triazole derivatives 5a–j and 1-phenyl-[1,2,4]triazolo[4,3-a]pyrimidinones derivatives 6a–g starting from 5-amino-1-phenyl[1,2,4]triazole and p-toluenesulfonic acid (PTSA). This methodology affords a number of 1-phenyl-imidazo [2,1-c][1,2,4]triazoles 5a–j and 1-phenyl-[1,2,4]triazolo[4,3-a]pyrimidinones 6a–g in reasonable yields and short reaction times. The structures of all new compounds were elucidated using infrared, 1H and 13C NMR, and high-resolution mass spectrometry. Some of the newly synthesized compounds were screened for their antimicrobial activity. [Supplementary materials are available for this article. Go to the publisher's online edition of Synthetic Communications® for the following free supplemental resource(s): Full experimental and spectral details.]

In the present study, we evaluated in vitro antimicrobial and antioxidant properties of Thymelaea hirsuta extracts as well as its phytochemical composition. Total phenolic and flavonoid contents were highest in acetone and ethyl acetate extracts respectively. The different extracts were tested against a panel of microorganisms, food-borne bacteria and spoilage fungi, in order to evaluate the antimicrobial properties of this plant. Among the tested extracts, only the ethyl acetate one exhibited antibacterial and antifungal activities. Acetone extract showed only an antibacterial activity. The investigation of the mode of action of the active ethyl acetate extract by the time-kill curve showed a drastic bactericidal effect after 5 min using a concentration of 624 μg/ml. Also, it appears that the ethyl acetate extract is an antifungal agent with a cellular target includes the pump H+-ATPase. The antioxidant activities of the different extract were evaluated using DPPH, lipid peroxidation and hydroxyl radical scavenging methods. From the obtained results it can be noticed that ethyl acetate and acetone extracts exhibited the best performance. The major phenolic compounds of the ethyl acetate extract of T. hirsuta were identified by Gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS). A total of 16 compounds were characterized including p-hydroxybenzoic, p-coumaric, ferulic and caffeic acids known to have various biological activities. Tunisian “Ministry of Higher Education, Scientific Research and Technology”

This work is directed towards Bacillus amyloliquefaciens strain BLB371 metabolite production for biocontrol of fungal phytopathogens. In order to maximise antifungal metabolite production by this strain, two approaches were combined: random mutagenesis and medium component optimization. After three rounds of mutagenesis, a hyper active mutant, named M3-7, was obtained. It produces 7 fold more antifungal metabolites (1800 AU/mL) than the wild strain in MC medium. A hybrid design was applied to optimise a new medium to enhance antifungal metabolite production by M3-7. The new optimized medium (35 g/L of peptone, 32.5 g/L of sucrose, 10.5 g/L of yeast extract, 2.4 g/L of KH2PO4, 1.3 g/L of MgSO4 and 23 mg/L of MnSO4) achieved 1.62 fold enhancement in antifungal compound production (3000 AU/mL) by this mutant, compared to that achieved in MC medium. Therefore, combinatory effect of these two approaches (mutagenesis and medium component optimization) allowed 12 fold improvement in antifungal activity (from 250 UA/mL to 3000 UA/mL). This improvement was confirmed against several phytopathogenic fungi with an increase of MIC and MFC over than 50%. More interestingly, a total eradication of gray mold was obtained on tomato fruits infected by Botrytis cinerea and treated by M3-7, compared to those treated by BLB371. From the practical point of view, combining random mutagenesis and medium optimization could be considered as an excellent tool for obtaining promising biological products useful against phytopathogenic fungi. Scopus

A new 3-(5-alkyl-2-phenyl-2H-1,2,4-triazol-3-yl)thiazolidin-4-ones derivatives were obtained by condensation of 5-amino-1,2,4-triazoles, mercaptoacetic acid with aromatic aldehydes and catalyzed by Sm(SO3CF3)3 using microwave irradiation. The prepared compounds were tested for their antioxidant, antibacterial and antifungal proprieties. Some of these compounds displayed significant activities. Among them, compound 2e exhibited remarkable activity against a broad spectrum of Gram positive, negative bacteria and pathogenic fungal strains with low MIC values. The investigation of the mode of action of the most potent antifungal compounds on the fungus Pythium phanidermatum showed a membrane alteration and distortions of hyphal morphology. The newly synthesized compounds exhibited also promising radical scavenging activity.

The phenolic composition and antibacterial and antioxidant activities of the green alga Ulva rigida collected monthly for 12 months were investigated. Significant differences in antibacterial activity were observed during the year with the highest inhibitory effect in samples collected during spring and summer. The highest free radical scavenging activity and phenolic content were detected in U. rigida extracts collected in late winter (February) and early spring (March). The investigation of the biological properties of U. rigida fractions collected in spring (April) revealed strong antimicrobial and antioxidant activities. Ethyl acetate and n-hexane fractions exhibited substantial acetylcholinesterase inhibitory capacity with EC50 of 6.08 and 7.6 μg mL−1, respectively. The total lipid, protein, ash, and individual fatty acid contents of U. rigida were investigated. The four most abundant fatty acids were palmitic, oleic, linolenic, and eicosenoic acids.

 We present a new method for the synthesis of bis-triazolones 3, which result from the processing of novel bis-amidrazones 2 with ethyl chloroformate. The bis-amidrazones 2 are prepared by the reaction of the N1-tosylhydrazonates 1 with two equivalents of aliphatic diamine. The structures of the new products were determined through IR, 1H and 13C NMR studies as well as elemental analysis. The molecular structure of the compound 3c was also determined via an X-ray analysis. The antimicrobial activity of the synthesized compounds was evaluated against a panel of 09 bacterial strains using broth microdilution methods. Results showed that compounds exhibited moderate to strong antibacterial activity against the tested species.

Methanol is primarily metabolized by oxidation to formaldehyde and then to formate. These processes are accompanied by formation of superoxide anion and hydrogen peroxide. This article reports data on the effect of methanol-induced oxidative damage in experimental rats and the role of aqueous extract of Opuntia vulgaris fruit extract (OE) to counteract the toxicity induced by methanol. The animals were exposed to methanol at a dose of 2.37 g/kg body weight intraperitoneally for 30 days. OE was found to contain large amounts of polyphenols and carotenoids and significant antioxidant capacities highlighted by scavenging activities for 2,2-diphenyl-l-picrylhydrazyl. The treatment with methanol exhibited a significant increase in serum hepatic and renal biochemical parameters (alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, lactate dehydrogenase, bilirubin, urea, and creatinine). Methanol intoxication significantly increased hepatic and renal lipid peroxidation evaluated by thiobarbituric acid reactive substances in treated rats as compared to controls. However, hepatic and renal antioxidant enzymes namely superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione peroxidase were significantly decreased in methanol-treated animals as compared to controls. The results concluded that treatment with OE prior to methanol intoxication has significant role in protecting animals from methanol-induced hepatic and renal histopathological and oxidative damage. Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research in Tunisia.