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The reinforcement of natural fibers in polymer composites is becoming more popular as time goes on due to their biodegradability, availability, lightweight, nontoxic, and nonhazardous characteristics. The goal of this research is to use natural resources like fibers in polymer composites. The matrix was made with the composites of epoxy resin in which fibers derived from the tree of Balanites Balanites aegyptiaca were utilized as reinforcement. To enhance the surface properties of these fibers, they were treated with sodium hydroxide solution (NaOH). By varying weight (5, 10, 15, and 20 wt.%) of the raw fibers treated with NaOH in epoxy resin several composite samples were produced using the hand lay-up technique. The effect of adding Balanites aegyptiaca fibers treated with NaOH to measure mechanical properties such as tensile, bending, and impact, as well as absorption of water and chemical resistance, and SEM morphology was studied. The composite with 15 wt.% Balanites aegyptiaca fibers exhibited the best mechanical properties, absorption of water, and chemical resistance to the composites, indicating that it has the strongest bonding and adhesion between fibers treated with NaOH and epoxy matrix. The surfaces of the tested composites displayed an interfacial adhesion between the matrix and the fibers, which is vividly visible in SEM micrographs of the fractured surfaces of tested composites. The composites that are reinforced with fiber and treated with NaOH are more resistant to water and chemicals than composites with untreated fibers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

DESERT date or Balanites aegyptiaca (L.) Del is one of the most prevalent, wild plant species in the arid regions of Africa and the Middle East. The desert date tolerates a broad range of soil types and can be found in a variety of habitat types. It has a wide ecological distribution but is mainly found on level alluvial sites with deep sandy loam and free access to water. B.egyptiaca is used in African and Indian traditional medicine. Many underutilized tree species are good sources of food, fodder and possible therapeutic agents. B. aegyptiaca tree is considered drought tolerant and a potential source of many secondary metabolites. This study investigated the adaptive and physiological response to severe aridity and drought stress on the growth of B. aegyptiaca in El-Kharga Oasis, which is the driest region in the Western Desert. Clay soil was found to be dominant in the mechanical soil analysis. Weakly to moderately calcareous soil carbonate was found, and the estimated pH values of the soil solution appeared to be slightly alkaline and exhibited a comparatively high electric conductivity. Total free amino acid concentration was greater than that of soluble protein and sugar. Results indicated that B. aegyptiaca is a drought-tolerant plant in severely arid areas that are subject to drought stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the increasing impacts of climate change, establishing more sustainable and robust plants such as desert dates (Balanites aegyptiaca) seems to be necessary. Known for its resilience in arid conditions, this tree has the potential to become a more important food source, particularly for its potential to yield edible oil. This study characterized Balanites kernel oil (BKO) as a promising oil source in arid regions, studying the influence of geographical origin and environmental factors. Moroccan and Sudanese BKO samples were analyzed and compared with Mauritanian BKO. In the fatty acid profile, unsaturated fatty acids constituted over 70% of the BKO profile, with a predominance of linoleic acid (Li), oleic acid (Ol), palmitic acid (Pa), and stearic acid (St). Consequently, the predominant triacylglycerols were PaLiLi, PaLiOl, LiLiOl, OlLiOl, and StLiOl. α-Tocopherol dominated the tocochromanol composition (324 to 607 mg/kg), followed by γ-tocopherol (120 to 226 mg/kg), constituting 90% of the total tocochromanols. The total phytosterol content in BKO ranged from 871 to 2218 mg/kg oil, with β-sitosterol dominating (58% to 74%). Principal Component Analysis revealed that the geographical origin significantly influences BKO composition, emphasizing environmental factors, particularly water deficit and/or temperatures. Notably, Moroccan BKO collected from an area characterized by high aridity and relatively low winter temperatures, showcased a unique profile in fatty acid, phytosterols, and tocochromanols. The valorization of BKO presents an opportunity for local agricultural development in arid regions and a role model for plant development and agricultural practices in other parts of the world. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Balanites aegyptiaca tree is widely used in many countries where it occurs. However, in Morocco its nutritional properties and chemical composition have not been extensively studied. This study aims to investigate its potential health benefits, focusing on bioactive compounds found in the fruit, including the pulp, shell and kernel. The fatty acid composition, phytosterol content, triacylglycerols and tocopherol levels of the lipid fraction extracted from different parts of Balanites fruit were analyzed using chromatographic techniques. Additionally, the antioxidant activity was assessed through the DPPH, ABTS, and FRAP assays. Results showed that the pulp, shell and kernel are rich in oleic acid, with percentages of 47.2%, 45.9%, and 41.9%, respectively. The linoleic acid content was consistent across all three parts. The shell had the highest phytosterols content, with β‐sitosterol being the most abundant in all three parts. The analysis revealed some variability in the identification of tocopherols, with the kernel containing the highest content of tocopherols, mainly α‐Tocopherol at 399 mg kg−1. The fruit, in its entirety, exhibits antioxidant activity as evaluated by three different methods: DPPH, ABTS, and FRAP. Overall, the study demonstrates that the fruit of B. aegyptiaca growing in Morocco possesses properties that could be utilized in the food and medical industries. Practical Application: The fruit parts of the Balanites tree (Balanites aegyptiaca) are rich in fatty acids, tocochromanols, and phytosterols, exhibiting significant antioxidant capacity. This study reveals the potential of the bioactive compounds of the fruit, which offers substantial practical applications as a natural source of antioxidants in food formulations and nutraceuticals. By leveraging the bioactive compounds identified in this study, researchers and industries can investigate the development of functional food and cosmeceuticals formulations to enhance human health and well‐being. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Activated carbon is an attractive adsorbent for capturing various environmental pollutants, including CO2. Herein, an optimal synthesis and impressive performance of activated carbon made from Balanites aegyptiaca (Desert date) seed shells is reported, which is an abundant agricultural waste in the Middle East and Africa. The synthesis route involved pretreating the biomass with KOH and heating it under a suitable temperature profile. An optimal KOH‐to‐biomass ratio and multi‐stage carbonization yielded activated carbon with a surface area above 3000 m2/g and an average pore size of nearly 4.1 nm. At 0 °C, this activated carbon exhibited CO2 uptake of 11.3 mmol g−1 that surpassed the uptake capacity of previously reported activated carbons. The selectivity towards CO2 was also found to be significantly higher compared to other gases. Thus, the present approach demonstrates an efficient conversion of agricultural waste to activated carbon for capturing CO2 and other environmental contaminants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This experiment aimed to assess the regulatory effects of treatment with Balanites aegyptiaca fruit ethanol extract (BA-EE) on oxidant/antioxidant status, anti-inflammatory cytokines, and cell apoptosis gene expression in the abomasum of Haemonchus contortus–infected goats. Twenty goat kids were assigned randomly to four equal groups: (G1) infected-untreated, (G2) uninfected-BA-EE-treated, (G3) infected-albendazole-treated, (G4) infected-BA-EE-treated. Each goat in (G1), (G3), and (G4) was orally infected with 10,000 infective third-stage larvae. In the fifth week postinfection, single doses of albendazole (5 mg/kg.BW) and BA-EE (9 g/kg.BW) were given orally. In the ninth week postinfection, the animals were slaughtered to obtain abomasum specimens. The following oxidant/antioxidant markers were determined: malondialdehyde (MDA), glutathione (GSH), glutathione-S-transferase (GST), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT). The mRNA gene expression of cytokines (IL-3, IL-6, IL-10, TNF-α) and cell apoptosis markers (Bax, Bcl-2) were estimated. (G1) showed significantly reduced GSH content and GST and SOD activities but a markedly increased MDA level. (G3) and (G4) revealed a markedly lower MDA level with pronouncedly elevated GSH, SOD, and GST levels. The antioxidant properties of BA-EE were superior to those of albendazole. The mRNA gene expressions of IL-3, IL-6, IL-10, TNF-α, and Bax-2 were upregulated in (G1) but downregulated in (G3) and (G4). Bcl-2 and Bcl-2/Bax ratio expression followed a reverse course in the infected and both treated groups. We conclude that BA-EE treatment has a protective role in the abomasum of H. contortus–infected goats. This could be attributed to its antioxidant properties and ability to reduce pro-inflammatory cytokines and cell apoptosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Balanites aegyptiaca Delile (BA) is an enduring xerophytic woody and spinous flowering tree and is commonly known as desert date or Ingudi (Hingot). It belongs to the family Zygophyllaceae, which is specific to be drought areas of Nigeria, Africa, South Asia and India (Rajasthan). In Ayurveda, this traditional medicinal plant is reported for the management of jaundice, syphilis, yellow fever, metabolic disorders, liver, and spleen problems. The main aim of the review is to compile its medicinal uses and further advancements to showcase the promises inherited in various parts of the plant for the benefit of mankind. As per the literature survey, various researchers have focused on the detailed investigation of BA including the phytopharmacological evidence, chemical constituents, nano-formulations, commercialized products, and clinical trials. Several remarkable scaffolds and isolated compounds like diosgenin, yamogenin, balanitin1/2, balanitin 3, bal4/5, bal6/7, rutin-3-glycosides, 3,7-diglycosides, (3, 12, 14, 16)–(12-hydroxycholest-5-ene-3,16-diyl-bis)-D-glucopyranoside and balanitoside have been identified. Additionally, this traditional plant has been scientifically proven by in vitro and in vivo. Based on the complete review of this plant, most of the compounds have been isolated from the fruit and kernel part. Additionally, based on the literature, a histogram was developed for pharmacological activity in which antidiabetic study was found to be more compared to other pharmacological activity. As a spinous desert dates, this plant needs to be explored more to bring out newer phytochemicals in the management of various diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Balanites Aegyptiaca is a medicinal plant used in Africa's folk medicines to treat wide range of diseases. Phytochemical analysis of ethanolic extract of balanites aegyptiaca revealed the presence of flavonoids, Glycosides, Alkaloids, Tannins, Anthraquinones, Terpenoids, phenols, saponins. However, steroids was found to be absent. The plant was evaluated for potential antimicrobial activity against medically important bacterial and fungal strains. The antimicrobial activity was determined in the extracts using agar well diffusion method. The antibacterial and antifungal activities of extracts in different concentrations 5, 10, 15, and 20 mg/ml were tested against two Grampositive Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus Epidermis; two Gram-negative, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and two fungal strains, Aspergillus flavus, Candida albicans. The zones of inhibition of the extracts were compared with that of different standards like ampicillin 1mg/ml for antibacterial activity and fluconazole 1mg/ml for antifungal activity. The results showed that the extract exhibited a remarkable inhibition of the microbial growth against the tested organisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper reports tests in the Adrar region of the promising woody species, Balanites aegyptiaca, in 2014. The species behaviour at different development stages (nursery, juvenile stage and adult stage) was monitored and evaluated. The evaluation took the criteria into account. The obtained results showed a significant correlation between the number of leaves and growth in height; showing that direct seeding is the most appropriate planting technique. Dendrometric parameters are positively related, resulting in a slenderness factor of 60% with a yield of 799.9 ± 481 fruits per tree. These preliminary results suggest that the work should be replicated, with a view to domesticating the species in southern Algeria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fusarium oxysporum is the causative agent of tomato wilt and is an important disease of tomato crops worldwide. Management through chemical fungicides causes serious environmental damage and human health. This study assesses the antifungal potential of biochemical compounds of Azadirachta indica and Balanites aegyptiaca seeds extracts identified by GC-MS analytical method against F. oxysporum. Acetone, methanol and aqueous extracts of A. indica and B. aegyptiaca at 15, 30 and 60 μL/mL concentrations and synthetic fungicide (3.33 g/L) were tested in vitro in triplicate. Mycelial growth and Minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC50, MIC90) were evaluated 8 days after inoculation (DAI). As results, 55 and 34 phytochemical compounds were identified in seed extracts of A. indica and B. aegyptiaca respectively. Methanol extract of A. indica and B. aegyptiaca at 60 μL/mL concentration showed a total inhibition (100%) of F. oxysporum mycelial growth. Low MIC50 values were obtained with aqueous extract of A. indica (8.77 μL/mL) and methanol extract of B. aegyptiaca (17.91 μL/mL). The tentative action mode showed that the methanol extract of both plants induced wall lysis of F. oxysporum. These results suggest that A. indica and B. aegyptiaca seed extracts have potent antifungal activity and could be used as an alternative to control F. oxysporum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of anthelmintic resistance and the high cost of conventional anthelmintics have led to the evaluation of medicinal plants as an alternative source of anthelmintics. In the current study, in vitro experiments were conducted to determine the possible anthelmintic effects of Balanites aegyptiaca stem bark aqueous extract on Strongyle larvae and the earthworm Pheretima posthuma. The in vitro studies revealed that the extract at graded concentrations of 300 mg/ml, 400 mg/ml, 500 mg/ml and 600 mg/ml exhibited larvicidal activity (p<0.05) against earthworms with 600 mg/ml having the highest activity causing paralysis and death. In a similar vein, a graded concentration response was observed against Strongyle larvae. The highest effective concentration on larvae was 250 mg/ml which had a larval mortality rate of 100% and a mortality index of one (1) comparable with that of albendazole. The IC50 and IC99 values for the time of paralysis were 442.7mg/ml and 767.80mg/ml respectively. The anthelmintic activity exhibited by the extract could be linked to the presence of phytochemicals present in the plant. These findings support the folkloric use of this plant in the control and management of gastrointestinal nematodes in humans and animals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study was carried out in Egyptian Deserts Gene Bank (EDGB), North Sinai Research Station, Desert Research Centre, Egypt. The present study investigated the responses of Balanites aegyptiaca seeds to some chemical and physical factors, such as mechanical scarification, chemical scarification, GA3 (gibberellic acid), dry heat treatment, potassium nitrate (KNO3) in solutions of water, sulphuric acid (H2SO4), hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), tap and hot water. Results indicated that the highest germination percentage 73.50% was achieved with dry heat treatments at 60 °C for 15 minutes. Treated seeds with dry heat treatments at 60 °C for 15 minutes enhanced standard germination percentage to 70.62 % and germination rate to 1.3. GA3. Hot water and mechanical scarification gave the best results in germination percentage, germination rate and standard germination. Some treatments were found to decrease germination percentage, standard germination and germination rate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fusarium oxysporum is the causative agent of tomato wilt and is an important disease of tomato crops worldwide. Management through chemical fungicides causes serious environmental damage and human health. This study assesses the antifungal potential of biochemical compounds of Azadirachta indica and Balanites aegyptiaca seeds extracts identified by GC-MS analytical method against F. oxysporum. Acetone, methanol and aqueous extracts of A. indica and B. aegyptiaca at 15, 30 and 60 µL/mL concentrations and synthetic fungicide (3.33 g/L) were tested in vitro in triplicate. Mycelial growth and Minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC50, MIC90) were evaluated 8 days after inoculation (DAI). As results, 55 and 34 phytochemical compounds were identified in seed extracts of A. indica and B. aegyptiaca respectively. Methanol extract of A. indica and B. aegyptiaca at 60 µL/mL concentration showed a total inhibition (100%) of F. oxysporum mycelial growth. Low MIC50 values were obtained with aqueous extract of A. indica (8.77 µL/mL) and methanol extract of B. aegyptiaca (17.91 µL/mL). The tentative action mode showed that the methanol extract of both plants induced wall lysis of F. oxysporum. These results suggest that A. indica and B. aegyptiaca seed extracts have potent antifungal activity and could be used as an alternative to control F. oxysporum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

THE CURRENT study offers quantification of soil, vegetation structure, and species distribution in 44 samples related to Balanites aegyptiaca in the Egyptian Deserts (the Eastern and Western Deserts). Egypt's Deserts were very dry. Throughout the research sites, 132 different plant species were counted. They belonged to 105 genera and 43 different families, and they were made up of 49 annuals and 83 perennials. The three largest families by the number of documented species are Asteraceae, Poaceae, and Fabaceae, which account for 33.33% of all recorded species. The most prevalent species, which represent a typical spectrum of desert life forms, were therophytes, phanerophytes, and chamaephytes. Six distinct vegetation groups, each with a distinct floristic composition, were identified after the classification of the vegetation was studied using the TWINSPAN technique. Detrended correspondence analysis (DCA) revealed that the first two DCA axes could distinguish these groups. Redundancy analysis (RDA) could also be used to effectively interpret and explain them. Sand, clay, water content, organic matter, sodium, potassium, calcium, and magnesium contents all closely correlated with the first four redundancy axes and accounted for 76.1% of the species-environment relationships among the studied stands. The vegetation pattern in the study areas was clearly demonstrated by classification and ordination. Because this area of study seemed to have a simple xerophytic floristic composition with Saharan Arabian elements, it was relatively unaffected by human disturbances. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Effectiveness of Balanites aegyptiaca conservation and sustainable exploitation requires a better knowledge of the intrinsic environmental factors linked with its current and future geographic distribution. This study aimed to map suitable areas for the conservation and domestication of B. aegyptiaca under present‐day and future climate conditions in Benin. A total of 424 occurrence records of B. aegyptiaca were combined with the environmental variables of two climatic scenarios (optimistic RCP 4.5 and pessimistic RCP 8.5) following the biodiversity modeling approach (biomod2). Findings were that under current and future climate conditions (RCP 4.5 and 8.5), almost one‐third of the country's area (protected and non‐protected areas), mainly located in the semiarid zone, presents a high probability of suitable areas for the conservation and domestication of B. aegyptiaca by 2055 time horizon. Exceptionally, a fine portion of medium suitable area for its distribution was found in the coastal area. Whatever the future climatic scenarios, a probable potential extension of the suitable areas (2.52% for RCP 4.5 and 0.43% for RCP 8.5) will be noted, thus emphasizing a positive impact of climate changes on the species. These findings are timely and could be used for setting appropriate management policies targeting the species in Benin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Balanites aegyptiaca (L.), is commonly known as 'desert date', or 'Hingot' is an evergreen, woody, true xerophytic, spinous, perennial flowering tree belongs to the family Balanitaceae. It is widely distributed in sandy, plain and dry land areas of dry land areas of Africa, South Asia and throughout the drier parts of India specially in Western Rajasthan, West Bengal and Maharashtra. B. aegyptiaca is a multipurpose plant with high economic potential for the people of desert. Different parts of the plant are confirmed to be utilized in folkloric medicines for the treatment of many diseases in India and Asia. All parts of the plant have gifted various pharmacological activity. The fruit and nuts of collected germplasm accessions are showing peculiar morphological variation in size, shape colour and weight. This preliminary study shows presence of variability among widely distributed population of this plant which will further help in understanding natural variation available in habitat before planning exhaustive collection and conservation programme for genetic improvement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research investigates the potential of Balanites aegyptiaca (desert date) seed shells, an abundant renewable bio-waste product, as a precursor for producing low-cost activated carbon for the removal of the herbicide 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D) from aqueous solution via batch technique adsorption. The chemical activation process was carried out using ZnCl2 as an activating agent at 700°C and 1:2 impregnation ratio. The activated carbon was characterized by “Boehm” titration, measurements of pH of the point zero charge, scanning electron microscopy, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy and specific surface areas (SMB) by methylene blue adsorption. The effects of initial herbicide concentration, contact time, solution pH, and solution temperature on the sorption capacity were investigated. Equilibrium data were fitted to the Langmuir, Freundlich, Temkin, Redlich– Peterson, Sips, and Toth models. The highest correlation coefficient (R2) values were obtained from Temkin model, with values of 0.997, 0.999, and 0.996 at 298.15, 308.15, and 318.15 K, respectively. The enthalpy change (ΔH°), entropy change (ΔS°) and free energy change (ΔG°) were also evaluated. The negative value of ΔG° shows that the adsorption process is spontaneous, and the positive value of ΔH° shows the endothermic nature of the process. The experimental data were tested through the pseudo-first-order, pseudo-second-order, and intraparticle diffusion models. The pseudo- second-order kinetic model was the most fitting to the kinetics data (R2 > 0.981). Results showed that Balanites aegyptiaca seed shell activated carbon is very efficient for the removal of 2,4-D from aqueous solutions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microsporum gypseum is a dermatophyte with a geophilic nature that is found all over the globe. It mainly causes tinea in the scalp, arms, and legs in humans. Squalene epoxidase (SE) is a crucial enzyme in M. gypseum for the biosynthesis of ergosterol. The medicinal plant Balanites aegyptiaca is an abundant supply of secondary constituents with great therapeutic values. In this research, the fruit epicarp portion was used to inhibit M. gypseum using experimental and computational techniques. The anti-dermatophytic activity of epicarp extracts on M. gypseum was evaluated using the poison plate method at five different concentrations. At 3 mg/mL, the M. gypseum was completely controlled by the fractioned chloroform extract of epicarp. The compounds from previous research were utilized for docking studies (Abuthakir et al., 2022). The ideal compounds and the drug terbinafine were then docked using Schrödinger's Glide module. It demonstrates that (3E)-7-Hydroxy-3,7-dimethyl-3-octen-1-yl-6-O-(6-deoxy-alpha-L-mannopyranosyl)-beta-D-glucopyranoside outperforms other substances and the drug terbinafine in docking analysis. Desmond, Schrödinger Molecular Dynamics simulations were also performed for (3E)-7-Hydroxy-3,7-dimethyl-3-octen-1-yl-6-O-(6-deoxy-alpha-L-mannopyranosyl)-beta-D-glucopyranoside-squalene epoxidase complexes. The complex appears to be more stable, according to the MD simulation research. This study indicates that (3E)-7-Hydroxy-3,7-dimethyl-3-octen-1-yl-6-O-(6-deoxy-alpha-L-mannopyranosyl)-beta-D-glucopyranoside could be used as a potential inhibitor of M. gypseum growth, and it could be studied further. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Objective: Tapinanthus globiferus is a hemi-parasitic plant used in ethonomedicine to treat different ailment including fungal infections. The aim of the study was to isolate the bioactive compound from leaf of T.globiferus growing on Balanites aegyptiaca. Material and Methods: The plant material was collected, identified pulverized to powder using mortar and pestle. The powdered plant material was subjected to maceration with 90o% methanol to obtained crude methanol leaf extract which was further partitioned with solvent of increasing polarity to obtained n-hexane, chloroform, ethylacetate and n-butanol fractions. Results: Chromatographic separation of ethylacetate fraction using a combination of silica gel column and sephadex LH-20 column led to the isolation of flavonoid (3,5,7-trihydroxy-2-(4-hydroxyphenyl)-4H-chromen-4-one). The structure of the compound obtained was established by Spectroscopic analysis (FTIR, NMR). Conclusion: Chromatographic studies of ethyl acetate fraction of T. globiferus growing on Balanites aegyptiaca, afforded a 3,5,7-trihydroxy-2-(4-hydroxyphenyl)- 4H-chromen-4-one. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of isolation of this compound from Tapinanthus globiferus growing on Balanites aegyptiaca. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study involved analysing the carbon-13 isotope ratio (δ13C) of cellulose, lignin, and whole wood powder of Balanites aegyptiaca to determine the optimal substrate for future ecophysiological studies. From seven different trees (i.e., three from the Sudanian zone and four from the Chadian Sahelian zone), 21 samples were taken for this study. Identical variation trends were observed with cellulose, lignin, and whole wood powder, with δ13C values for cellulose always higher than for the other substrates, although the trees were located under different climatic conditions. The means obtained were −26.0 ‰, −28.7 ‰, and −27.1 ‰, for cellulose, lignin, and whole wood powder, respectively. Spearman's correlation test, which was used to analyse relationships between the results, revealed a strong correlation (r2 = 0.93) between the δ13C cellulose values and those of whole wood powder from B. aegyptiaca, as well as between the δ13C cellulose values and those of lignin (r2 = 0.73). This strong correlation between cellulose and wood powder results, and between cellulose and lignin, suggests that the isolation of cellulose is not necessary for δ13C analysis of B. aegyptiaca wood. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The therapeutic importance of Balanites aegyptiaca in folk medicine for the treatment of several common human diseases has led researchers to conduct phytochemical and pharmacological studies on extracts from various parts of the plant. In the current study, the phytochemical composition of the B. aegyptiaca methanolic fruit extract was characterized, and its antimicrobial activity was evaluated together with the cytotoxic activity against MCF-7, PC-3, and Caco-2, compared with normal Vero cells. Further, its effects on cell cycle arrest, apoptosis induction and expression of apoptosis-related genes were assessed. The phytochemical screening revealed the presence of fatty acids and their esters in addition to phytosterols, steroid derivatives, and bioflavonoid glycosides with oleic and palmitic acids being the prevalent components (24.12 and 21.56%, respectively). The results showed considerable cytotoxic activity of the extract against the three cancer cell lines (MCF-7, PC-3, and Caco-2) with a selectivity index ranging from 5.07 to 6.52. This effect was further confirmed with the accompanied increased total apoptosis of treated PC-3 cells (19.22% of the total number of cells) compared to the control cells (0.64% of the total number of cells) with cell cycle arrest at G1 phase and the increased transcription of pro-apoptotic genes including P53 (3.69) and BAX (3.33) expressed as fold change (2^ ΔΔCT). The calculated minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) was similar (62.5 µg/mL) against the three tested bacterial strains (Acinetobacter johnsonii, Serratia marcescens and Agrobacterium tumefaciens), while it was higher than 1000 µg/mL for the fungal species (Rhizoctonia solani, Penicillium italicum, and Fusarium oxysporium). Our findings suggest a promising anticancer activity for B. aegyptiaca, which paves the way for more detailed future studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Balanites aegyptiaca is a valuable resource for local African populations. However, this natural resource is managed in an irrational and abusive way by local communities. In order to contribute to the enhancement and sustainable management of B. aegyptiaca, an approach combining two methods has been adopted. The first is based on an ethnobotanical survey relating to local knowledge of B. aegyptiaca products and the second is focused on the surface survey in 4 Divisions of the Far North Region of Cameroon. In total, 400 people aged at least 15 years were chosen according to their knowledge of B. aegyptiaca, ie 100 people in each Division. The experimental design is a split-plot (4 x 4), then Sub-Divisions (Kalfou, Mindif, Moutourwa and Pette) constitute the main treatment. B. aegyptiaca is an agroforestry species that plays a very important role in the life of local communities. The main products used are leaves (100%), fruits (98.19%) and seeds (90.06%). They are used mainly in consumption (98.19%) and marketing (91.67%). Garawa Park in Moutourwa Sub-Division is the richest in taxonomic diversity, with 20 species, divided into 14 genera and 11 families. On the other hand, B. aegyptiaca park of Ourosambo located in Kalfou Division is the least diversified with 9 species, divided into 7 genera and 6 families. The other parks show intermediate specific diversity, with the number of species varying from 10 species (Doyang) to 18 species (Toutka). The Shannon diversity index varies in the parks from 1.77 bit (Ourosambo) to 2.86 bit (Maoudine). Parkland vegetation has an "L" structure based on crown diameter and diameter at breast height (DBH). Depending on the heights, the vegetation presents an inverted "U" structure. These results could serve as a reference for the elaboration of strategies for the development and sustainable management of B. aegyptiaca parks in the Sudano-Sahelian zone of Cameroon. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In systematic botany, species delimitations are addressed most frequently. The desert date Balanites is a plant with the controversial membership in the Balanitaceae and Zygophyllaceae families. The morphological characters of Balanites showed close relationship with the members of Zygophyllaceae while barcode genes showed relatedness with the members of Celastraceae. On the other hand, Gymnosporia montana, a Celastraceae plant, showed close relatedness with Zygophyllaceae. In this study, cpDNAs (plastomes) of Balanites aegyptiaca and G. montana were extracted, sequenced, and annotated for the detailed analysis. These plastomes were compared and contrasted with plastomes of other members of allied groups from the NCBI databases. The comparative genomics study revealed that B. aegyptiaca related more with family Zygophyllaceae than Celastraceae. Detailed studies performed for molecular marker analysis showed distinction in marker patterns. It is concluded that B. aegyptiaca, assigned in a separate family, may be justifiable at genomic level, and screened markers can be used for identification and authentication. The nucleotide probes identified can be used for identification and authentication of these medicinally important plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study comprises of novel investigations to optimize the process of surfactant extraction from two different natural sources viz. protein-based sesame seed and saponin-based hingot fruit. This study is probably the first of its kind using aforementioned surfactants and the outcomes of the present study could increase the commercial use of above natural surfactants for foam concrete (FC) production. A methodical approach of experiment design based on the response surface methodology (RSM) was used to optimize the surfactant extraction and foam formation processes and the essential properties such as initial foam density (IFD), foam stability, foam bubble size, and surfactant viscosity were evaluated. Analysis indicated that increase in heating temperature (HT) from 50 to 100 °C and heating duration (HD) from 3 to 10 h resulted in 45% and 29% rise in the viscosity of surfactant, respectively. The aforementioned increase in viscosity subsequently resulted in reduction in IFD, foam drainage and bubble size. However, for sesame seed surfactant, adding to above, NaOH added as alkali for hydrolysis of protein has significant influence on foam behavior. The desirable combination of input parameters for sesame surfactant are 6% surfactant concentration (SC), 490 kPa Foam generation pressure (FGP), 6% NaOH concentration, 90 °C HT and 5 h HD. Similarly, for hingot surfactant, the derived parameters are 6% SC, 550 kPa FGP, 90 °C HT and 5 h HD. Furthermore, the performance of surfactants in foam cement paste was assessed and ASTM requirements are found to be met confirming its suitability for use in FC production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Local forests and fruit trees in sub-Saharan Africa play an important role to improve food and nutrition security, health and incomes generation. The support and the economic value of Non-Timber Forest Products (NTFPs) from tropical forests in people life has been widely investigated but several tree species' uses and contribution to households' well-being are yet to deepen. Balanites aegyptiaca is a native multipurpose tree whose several parts/organs are widely used in diversified domains. To date, the permanent gap related to B. aegyptiaca is to link the species use diversity and its economical contribution with local climate conditions, and the assessment of endogenous strategies to promote its resource conservation. This study aimed to highlight the contribution of B. aegyptiaca NTFPs in the local economy and local strategies to promote its products for endogenous conservation practices. Hence, socio-economic surveys were conducted in 120 households, five markets and nine associations across two climatic zones. Use values, use domains, economic value and local strategies for the species conservation were assessed. Results showed the used organs, and the used intensity varies significantly across climatic zones (p = 0.03). Local manufactured products are mostly from leaves and fruit. Informants reported widely almonds processing (78%). The species NTFPs are more commercialized in the Sudano-Sahelian zone (85%) compared to the Sahelian zone (15%). Average value per tree was estimated at 154 ± 28 FCFA (0.27 USD) per season in the Sahelian zone and 426 ± 19 FCFA or (0.74 USD) in the Sudano-Sahelian zone based only on fruit collection. Given its importance in local people life, endogenous strategies are adopted to safeguard the resource and for sustainably the species products. The multipurpose uses of B. aegyptiaca reported, the NTFPs financial benefits and the high resilience of the species show a great necessity to promote its domestication and in-situ conservation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The protein contents of heglig fruit shell and flesh parts were determined as 6.31% and 5.44% (w/w), respectively. The total phenol amounts of fruit shell and flesh parts were established as 138.13 mg GAE/100 g and 144.03 mg GAE/100 g, respectively. Kaempferol, quercetin, and resveratrol were the dominant phenolic constituents of heglig fruit parts. While kaempferol contents of fruit shell and flesh parts are identified as 10.30 mg/100 g and 15.83 mg/100 g, quercetin contents of fruit shell and flesh parts were detected as 8.26 and 24.71 mg/100 g, respectively. While K amounts of fruit shell and flesh parts are determined as 7,680.96 and 2,122.23 mg/kg, Ca and Mg contents of fruit shell and flesh parts were measured as 3,543.38 and 2,198.54 mg/kg to 547.88 and 599.58 mg/kg, respectively. Phytochemical investigation of heglig fruits portions showed the presence of some important phytochemical compounds. Mineral results exhibited some fluctuations depending on fruit portions. Practical applications: Balanites aegyptiaca fruit is used for food and feed in almost all parts of Africa. Bioactive compounds, antioxidant properties, polyphenols, and minerals of heglig fruit parts were evaluated. B. aegyptiaca (L.), a tree that is more valuable with its fruits and seeds, has a long history of use as a wide‐spread woody plant resource in the African continent. The heglig (laloub) fruit can be eaten as fresh and dried. Heglig's fruits and seeds are widely used in different countries of Africa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Forests have always been a source of wood, food, and medicine for the rural populations of the Sahel. Anthropogenic and animal pressures often lead to low tree recruitment rates and seedling survival. Under certain conditions, multipurpose species such as Balanites aegyptiaca have shown dramatic decreases in population numbers. The objective of the present study is to determine the natural colonisation behaviour of B. aegyptiaca and to develop vegetative propagation strategies. Surveys were carried out in the agroforest parklands of the Regional Centre for Agricultural Research of Maradi Research Station. An inventory was carried out in 1,500 m2 plots to determine the species' regeneration methods. We then tested seed germination success, and suckering induction, air-layering, and stem cuttings were carried out to determine the techniques best suited for the propagation of B. aegyptiaca. It emerged from this study that in nature, B. aegyptiaca is propagated naturally by dispersion of seeds (81.2%), as well as by rejection of the strain (13.5%) and by suckering (5.2%). The germination test showed that heavy seeds (38.4%) germinated best because they have a higher nutrient reserve. With a success rate of 11.1%, distal suckers react better than proximal suckers (5.5%) because they quickly acquire relative independence from the mother plant. As for air-layering, stems with large diameters react better (53.3%) than those with small diameters (46.6%) because they have thicker bark and store a large amount of elaborate sap responsible for rhizogenesis. In the stem segment cutting test, cuttings of small diameter react better at 30.8% than those of large diameter (12.6%) because they have a higher number of meristematic tissues. The stem segment cuttings seem to be the best adaptable alternative to the natural propagation of B. aegyptiaca because it combines ease of use, low cost, and a significant success rate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present work was conducted in order to investigate the effect of auxin type (2,4-D and NAA) and concentration (0.00, 0.25, 0.50, 1.00 and 2.00 mg/l) on Balanites aegyptiaca callus cultures growth and production of secondary metabolites. Obtained results demonstrated that supplementation MS medium with 2,4-D at 2.0 mg/l could enhanced and recorded the ultimate values of callus fresh weight, antioxidant activity (%), total flavonoids, total phenolic compounds and total saponins contents and yields of Balanites aegyptiaca L. callus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While the impact of livestock grazing has been frequently assessed for grasses, little is known about how livestock affects tree seedlings and saplings. We explored the effects of goat, cattle and camel browsing on the survival of Balanites aegyptiaca seedlings and saplings, a broadleaved evergreen tree species indigenous to Sudan, in Dinder Biosphere Reserve-Sudan (DBR). We used a stratified sampling design with four sites: GOA (mainly browsed by goats), CAT and CAM being mainly browsed by cattle and camels, respectively, while CON was a control area without any livestock browsing. We tested the survival, mortality and recovery of seedlings and saplings across different sites. Our results revealed that mortalities of seedlings in GOA were almost four times higher than that of CAM and CON and twice that of CAT (F3,196 = 100.39, P <.001). Further, sapling mortality was three times higher in GOA than that observed in CAT and CON (F3,196 = 73.4, P <.001). We found that seedlings recover better than saplings, and, unexpectedly, goat browsing severely affected the natural regeneration of B. aegyptiaca in DBR compared to other livestock species. Our study findings contribute to sustainable forest management and show that particularly goat browsing needs to be suppressed for conservation of vulnerable tree species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Egyptian Journal of Botany is the property of Egyptian National Agricultural Library (ENAL) and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Background: Balanites aegyptiaca (L.) Delile, commonly known as desert date, is a thorny evergreen tree belonging to the family Zygophyllaceae and subfamily Tribuloideae that is widespread in arid and semiarid regions. This plant is an important source of food and medicines and plays an important role in conservation strategies for restoring degraded desert ecosystems. Results: In the present study, we sequenced the complete plastome of B. aegyptiaca. The chloroplast genome was 155,800 bp, with a typical four-region structure: a large single copy (LSC) region of 86,562 bp, a small single copy (SSC) region of 18,102 bp, and inverted repeat regions (IRa and IRb) of 25,568 bp each. The GC content was 35.5%. The chloroplast genome of B. aegyptiaca contains 107 genes, 75 of which coding proteins, 28 coding tRNA, and 4 coding rRNA. We did not observe a large loss in plastid genes or a reduction in the genome size in B. aegyptiaca, as found previously in some species belonging to the family Zygophyllaceae. However, we noticed a divergence in the location of certain genes at the IR-LSC and IR-SSC boundaries and loss of ndh genes relative to other species. Furthermore, the phylogenetic tree constructed from the complete chloroplast genome data broadly supported the taxonomic classification of B. aegyptiaca as belonging to the Zygophyllaceae family. The plastome of B. aegyptiaca was found to be rich in single sequence repeats (SSRs), with a total of 240 SSRs. Conclusions: The genomic data available from this study could be useful for developing molecular markers to evaluate population structure, investigate genetic variation, and improve production programs for B. aegyptiaca. Furthermore, the current data will support future investigation of the evolution of the family Zygophyllaceae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Balanites aegyptiaca (L.) Delile and Ricinodendron heudelotii (Bail.) Pierre are multipurpose wild oil plants (WOP) with high socio-economic and ethnoecological importance. Both WOPs remained neglected and underutilized at the national or regional level. In this study, their geographic distribution and structural characteristics were assessed in Benin. Inventory surveys were carried out along 170 linear transects for both species and 488 and 64 circular plots for B. aegyptiaca and R. heudelotii, respectively. The dendrometric, density, and diversity parameters were collected to characterize the stand structure of the species using linear and generalized linear models, Pearson pairwise correlation, Weibull distribution and the Importance Value Index. Adults of B. aegyptiaca were exclusively found in the semi-arid zone of Benin. The tree-density increased northward with high value in East Mekrou-Pendjari phytodistrict. The highest value for recruitment was obtained in the Atacora chain and West Mekrou-Pendjari phytodistricts in gallery forest and wooded savannah. As for R. heudelotii, adults were found in sub-humid and humid zones with an aggregated spatial distribution. The tree-density of R. heudelotii was not significantly affected by phytodistricts and land use types. The recruitment rate was high in South Borgou and West Plateau phytodistricts in the forest. The dendrometric characteristics were high in North Borgou and East Mekrou-Pendjari phytodistricts in farm/parkland for B. aegyptiaca and South Borgou and Pobe phytodistricts in gallery forest and forest for R. heudelotii. The demographic pattern of these species revealed a low potential for regeneration and recruitment of individuals from low to high diameter classes as a result of anthropogenic pressures. These results demonstrate the need to intensify the domestication or assisted natural regeneration of these species in degraded areas to promote and ensure their sustainable exploitation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study attempted to evaluate and rationalize the medicinal use of the methanolic extract of the fruits of Balanites aegyptiaca (B. aegyptiaca) in the treatment of hyperactive gut disorders. The in vivo, castor oil-induced diarrhea model in mice was followed to test its antidiarrheal effect. To test the antispasmodic effect and to explore its pharmacodynamic details, isolated small intestines (ileum) obtained from rats were selected to provide physiological conditions for the ex vivo assays. In the in vivo assays, the orally administered extract of B. aegyptiaca protected mice from diarrheal drops with resultant percent inhibitions of 40% and 80% at the respective doses of 200 mg/kg and 400 mg/kg, while the highest protection (100%) was observed with a positive control drug, loperamide, at 10 mg/kg. In the ileum, B. aegyptiaca produced an antispasmodic effect in a concentration-dependent manner by inhibiting the carbachol (CCh; 1 µM) and high K+ (80 mM)-evoked spasms with resultant EC50 values of 1.44 mg/mL (1.08–1.78) and 1.27 mg/mL (0.98–1.66), respectively. Papaverine, a known phosphodiesterase enzyme (PDE) inhibitor and blocker of Ca++ channels (CCB), also inhibited both CCh and high K+ induced contractions at comparable EC50 values of 8.72 µM (7.92–9.24) and 8.14 µM (7.62–8.84), respectively. Contrary to the extract and papaverine, verapamil showed distinctly higher potency in regard to inhibiting high K+, compared to CCh-evoked spasms that had EC50 values of 0.16 µM (0.13–0.261) and 2.54 µM (2.28–2.92), respectively. The inhibitory effects of B. aegyptiaca on PDE were further confirmed when the pre-incubated extract shifted the isoprenaline-mediated relaxation curves (CRCs) towards the left, similar to papaverine, whereas the CCB-like effect was confirmed when the pre-incubated tissues with B. aegyptiaca caused deflection in the Ca++ CRCs towards the right, constructed in Ca++ free medium with suppression of the maximum response. Thus, this study provides detailed, mechanistic support for the medicinal use of B. aegyptiaca in the treatment of hyperactive gut disorders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: The current research work reports the synthesis of highly efficient heterogeneous barium oxide with molybdenum oxide (BaO‐MoO2) catalysts for transesterification of Balanites aegyptiaca seed oil for biodiesel production. The synthesized catalysts are being characterized through several analytical techniques such as X‐ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), temperature‐programmed desorption (TPD) and Brunauer‐Emmett‐Teller (BET) to examine its suitability for biodiesel production. The biodiesel production process was optimized and optimum yield obtained was 97.8% using a set of optimum conditions such as methanol‐to‐oil molar ratio of 12, the processing time of 120 minutes, process temperature of 65°C and with catalyst loading of 4.5 wt%. Moreover, catalyst reusability was determined and it was found to be highly suitable for reuse with minimum loss of its activity. Further on, quality of the produced biodiesel was evaluated to show its suitability as fuel and its potential as an alternative to fossil diesel. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Balanites aegyptiaca L. Delile (B. aegyptiaca) is used in traditional medicine for the treatment of memory impairment. This work aims to evaluate the antioxidant and anticholinesterase potential of BA fruit pulp extract on excitotoxicity induced by monosodium glutamate (MSG). MSG was administered 30 minutes after treatment with B. aegyptiaca aqueous fruit pulp extract (50, 125, 250, and 500 mg/kg) and vitamin C (100 mg/kg) for 30 days. The negative control group received only MSG, while the control group was given distilled water daily. Behavioral tests parameters (using the novel object recognition, Y-maze, and Barnes maze tests), oxidative stress biomarkers (malondialdehyde, superoxide dismutase, and catalase), nitric oxide, and acetylcholinesterase activity and hippocampal architecture were evaluated. Results obtained revealed that different doses of B. aegyptiaca significantly reversed the deleterious effect of MSG on memory. This was displayed by a significant (p < 0.05) increment in the percentage of spontaneous alternation in the Y-maze test and a significant (p < 0.001) increase in discrimination index in novel object recognition observed with 500 mg/kg extract dose. Moreover, the extract (250 and 500 mg/kg doses) significantly (p < 0.001) increased direct search strategy and significantly decreased (p < 0.01) the time taken to find the target hole in the Barnes maze. A modulation of hyperactivity was observed after administration of all extract doses compared to the negative control group in the open arena. Furthermore, the highest dose of the extract caused a significant (p < 0.001) improvement in antioxidant enzymes activity, associated with a significant (p < 0.001) decrement in nitric oxide and malondialdehyde concentrations and a significant (p < 0.01) decrease in acetylcholinesterase activity. Treatment with the extract also restored normal hippocampal cell architecture. B. aegyptiaca fruit pulp extract could thus confer neuroprotection through its antioxidant and anticholinesterase potential. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The fruits of Balanites aegyptiaca, a wild savannah tree, constitute a promising source of steroidal sapogenins, chemicals in demand by the pharmaceutical industry, in addition to an untapped source of an edible fixed oil. Large guantity of the fruit (ca. 400 000 tons per annum) are traditionally collected and marketed in Sudan due to their edible mesocarp. This study is concerned with accumulation of the fixed oil as well as of steroidal sapogenins in 11 fruit developmental stages, from the young immature to the fully ripe, dry stages. The fruits were separated into "kernels" and combined "epicarp+ mesocarp" tissues. An infra-red spectrophotometric method was used for sapogenin quantification. Total sapogenin contents expressed per tissue was 0.5 mg in kernels and 2.5 mg in "epicarp=mesocarp" in the first stage (S1). Thereafter, these values rose sharply in later fruit developmental stages so that by stage S7 (a mature but still green stage), they contained maximum values of 22.0 and 60.0 mg/tissue, respectively. Similarly, balanites kernel oil (BKO) dramatically increased in amount with fruit development; from < 5.0% in the first two very young stages to over 45.0% of kernel dry weight by stages 7 and 8. Thus, harvesting fruits at the still green 7th stage would minimize losses of the dry, sapogenin-rich epicarp encountered during traditional harvesting and handling of dry fruits. "Epiarp+mesocarp" tissue contained both 25a and 25b sapogenins, the proportion of 25b increased with fruit maturation. On the other hand, kernel tissue contained only 25a (diosgenin type) sapogenin till the very late fruit stage, when plastid degradation occurred. Linoleic acid was the major fatty acid of balanites kernel oil in all fruit developmental stages. Linolenic and palmitoleic acids were present in the kernel oil of very young fruits but disappeared with the degradation of plastid-membrane lipids on further fruit maturation and desication. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Key message: Correlations were observed between Balanites aegyptiaca fruit morphology and kernel oil yield and quality, thus suggesting the possibility of selecting trees with smaller fruits and lower pulp/seed ratio for edible oil production. Phenotypic variations in fruit morphology (length, diameter, total fruit weight, anatomical part weight percentages) and kernel chemical traits (gross composition, amino acid content, fatty acid composition of kernel oil) were assessed in a natural population of Balanites aegyptiaca (L.) Del. grown in the South-East of Sudan, with the main aim of highlighting the potential of B. aegyptiaca kernel for edible oil production. Mature fruits were randomly collected from eight trees, representative of eight distinct categories for shape (length/diameter ratio) and size (weight). Significant tree-to-tree differences in fruit morphology and kernel composition have been registered. The smallest fruits were characterised by the highest kernel contribution to the whole fruit weight, while the largest fruits showed the smallest seeds. The highest oleic/linoleic acid ratio in kernel oil fatty acids was found in fruits characterized by the lowest pulp percentage; the maximum oil yield (highest kernel percentage and kernel oil percentage) was associated to the highest levels of polyphenolic antioxidants and the highest radical scavenging activity of kernel tissues. Experimental data suggested the possibility of selecting trees with large fruits and high pulp/seed ratio, suitable for direct consumption as human food, and trees with smaller fruits and lower pulp/seed ratio for oil production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Desert date tea (DDT) is originated from the local Balanites aegyptiaca flowers infusion. Thus, the objectif of this work is to evaluate the antioxidant activity, phenolic contents and the sensory quality of DDT. The antioxidant activity was determined, total phenols and total flavonoids were quantified. Total phenols and flavonoids followed LC-MS analysis, and sensory evaluation were also carried out. Substantial quantities were recorded for both quantity of phenolic and flavonoids accounted for 3.06 mg galic acid /g and 21.60 mg rutin /g respectively. Compounds like narcissin, hirsutrin, quercetrin, ilixantrin, rutin, isorhamnetin and diverse flavone were identified. Lower antioxidant activity and overall acceptability of DDT were noticed than that of quercetin and commercial green tea. The sensory result showed again that the green tea and DDT scored almost the same in flavor character. It can be concluded that DDT could be widely used as a source of polyphenols with antioxidant and sensory quality potential; therefore, introducing numerous health benefits for the consumer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The potential application of Truffle (Terfeziaceae) and Desert Date tree (Balanites aegyptiaca) for modulating the diabetes mellitus related symptoms has gained much interest. However, less firm evidence has come from data to increase the understanding of the mechanism by which Truffle and Balanites protect pancreatic β-cells. The present study aimed to evaluate the effect of methanolic extract of Truffle and Balanites aegyptiaca on the fasting blood glucose (FBG) level; the changes in pancreatic histology as well as the changes in iNOS and IL-1β genes expression level among STZ induced diabetic rats which might help in better clarification of possible mechanisms beside the beneficial effects of the studied plants on diabetes. The elevation of the FBG level, pathological pancreatic changes and the level of both IL-1β and iNOS gene expressions in diabetic rats were observed in comparison with negative control rats. This increase was declined significantly due to the administration of Truffle and Balanites extracts. All of the studied parameters did not completely reverse to the normal levels as compared with negative control rats. The obtained results concluded that the beneficial effect of Truffle and Balanites aegyptiaca on STZ-induced diabetes was at least partly due to the reduction of IL-1β and iNOS gene over the expression which can have a protective effect on β cell. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Climatic aridity and human pressure are factors responsible for the dynamics of species populations in West Africa savannas ecosystems, causing significant effects on their productivity. This study aimed to determine the factors that affect Balanites aegyptiaca fruit production in order to contribute to the control of the species management. Data were collected across two climatic zones and two contrasting land-use systems on trees with different stem diameter classes. A non-destructive method was applied to assess fruit biomass per tree. The results showed that climatic conditions had a significant effect on fruit production of Balanites aegyptiaca (p <.001). In contrast, land use did not affect the production of the species (p >.05). The average fruit biomass was estimated at 2.99 ± 2.03 kg and 6.32 ± 5.0 kg.tree−1, respectively, in the Sahelian and the Sudano-Sahelian zones. Fruit production was correlated to tree stem diameter, crown cover and tree height. B. aegyptica trees start fruiting in both climatic zones, when stem diameter is around 10 cm. This study contributes to highlight the important factors that drive B. aegyptiaca fruit production under different environmental conditions. The results of this study can guide for other similar studies on fruit bearing trees in tropical areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Balanites aegyptiaca L. is a multipurpose tree distributed in Africa and Middle East. Several parts of B. aegyptiaca have been suggested to have medicinal uses. So far the effect of ecological origin on the nutritional values and biological activities of B. aegyptiaca genotypes is rarely investigated. Further, metabolic profiling and assessment of the functional food value of B. aegyptiaca leaves are far from complete. In this study, biological activities and profiling of primary and secondary metabolites were investigated in the leaves of five B. aegyptiaca provenances collected from Egypt, Sudan, Saudi Arabia, and Yemen. Interestingly, all provenances showed notable antidiabetic, antioxidant, antiprotozoal, antibacterial, antifungal, and anticancer activities. Hierarchical clustering analysis revealed significant variability in the concentrations of individual sugars, organic acids, amino acids, fatty acids, vitamins, phenolics, and minerals among the provenances and these variations were provenance dependent. Medina provenance showed the heights diphenylpicrylhydrazyl (DPPH) scavenging and antifungal activities and was the most powerful against embryonic kidney adenocarcinoma and urinary bladder carcinoma cells. The highest inhibition against Escherichia coli and colon carcinoma cells was observed by Sudan and Cairo provenances. El‐Kharga and Yemen provenances showed the greatest activity against Trypanosoma cruzi and hepatocellular and urinary bladder carcinoma. Therefore, leaves of B. aegyptiaca possess good nutritive and biological capacities and might have potential applications in the food and medical industries. However, the strength of such activities is significantly affected by the provenance. Practical applications: According to the national Research Council (NRC) of United States, Balanites aegyptiaca L. is recognized among the 24 priority lost crops of Africa. B. aegyptiaca leaves contain considerable amounts of primary metabolites (e.g., sugars, EAAs, USFAs) and secondary (e.g., phenolic acids and flavonoids) metabolites, vitamins, and macro and microelements. The obvious existence of these nutritionally and medicinally related compounds supports the functional food value of B. aegyptiaca leaves. Moreover, the present results revealed that B. aegyptiaca is not only a foliage dietary plant, but also could be considered as a valuable source for neutraceuticals, which support its pharmacological value. So far, this is the first report to explore, in detail, the functional food value of B. aegyptiaca leaves by presenting a clear image about its metabolic profiling and biological activities, and how the provenance factor could affect these values. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The persistent problem of canine infection with Dipylidium caninum, in spite of the wide accessibility of drugs proposed essentially to kill cestodes, recommends the need to discover other effective alternative therapy. The present study aimed to explore the role of Balanites aegyptiaca fruits against the adult D. caninum, and whether its methanolic extract had any effect on the tegument of adult cestode which is essential for the protective function, following 12- and 24-h incubation in vitro. The tegumental alterations were assessed by using both light and scanning electron microscopic studies. Results: The Balanites extract exhibited cestocidal effect in vitro on D. caninum, and the tegument of the adult worm appeared to be its primary target. This finding was supported by differences in extract response depending on the exposure period. After 12-h incubation in vitro with Balanites extract, the tegumental changes concerned the scolex other than the proglottides, while by 24-h incubation, the changes in the adult cestodes concerned the whole body surface. Conclusion: The tegumental distortion appeared to be the main changes induced by treatment with the tested extract. This alteration would obviously disrupt the protective function of the tegument and facilitate expelling of the adult cestode from the dog’s intestine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Egyptian Academic Journal of Biological Sciences. B, Zoology is the property of Egyptian Academic Journal of Biological Sciences and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Extraction of biosurfactants from plants is advantageous than from microbes. The properties and robustness of biosurfactant derived from the mesocarp of Balanites aegyptiaca have been reported. However, the dark brown property of biosurfactant and lack of knowledge of its biocompatibility limits its scope. In the present work, the decolorization protocol for this biosurfactant was optimized using hydrogen peroxide. The hemolytic potential and biocompatibility based on cell toxicity and proliferation were also investigated. This study is the first report on the decolorization and toxicity assay of this biosurfactant. For decolorization of biosurfactant, 34 full factorial design was used, and the data were subjected to ANOVA. Results indicate that 1.5% of hydrogen peroxide can decolorize the biosurfactant most efficiently at 40 °C in 70 min at pH 7. Mitochondrial reductase (MTT) and reactive oxygen species (ROS) assays on M5S mouse skin fibroblast cells revealed that decolorized biosurfactant up to 50 µg/mL for 6 h had no significant toxic effect. Hemolysis assay showed ~ 2.5% hemolysis of human RBCs, indicating the nontoxic effect of this biosurfactant. The present work established a decolorization protocol making the biosurfactant chromatically acceptable. Biocompatibility assays confirm its safer use as observed by experiments on M5S skin fibroblast cells under in vitro conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]