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Endophytic fungi live inside plant tissues and increase their resistance to abiotic and biotic factors. Our work is concerned with interannual variations of mycoendophyte diversity of leaves of Pistacia atlantica Desf. of dayate Aiat, in the region of Laghouat (Algeria) and this for the spring of 2013 and 2016. The morphological identification revealed the presence of 26 fungal genera. The difference in diversity is very significant between the two years of sampling, according to calculated Shannon Weaver indices. Based on principal component analysis, the distribution of these leaf microorganisms is influenced by the climatic conditions of the study area. Aspergillus and Epicoccum are dominant for 2013. In 2016, Aspergillus and Cladosporium dominate. The persistence of Aspergillus gives it an important role in the fight against the stress suffered by the leaf of Pistacia atlantica.

Mycobionts make up most of the genetic diversity of underground life. Despite their abundance, their impact on terrestrial ecosystem processes is still poorly understood. Estimates suggest that 95% of plant species rely entirely on microbial symbiotes for growth and survival, underlining their importance in soil as a regulator of plant species richness and diversity. In this study, we explore an inventory of the fungal rhizobiome of two populations of Atlas pistachio in Laghouat (Algeria), a typical hot and arid region. Six healthy trees of different age classes were randomly sampled from each site during April 2016. In spite of the arid climate in our study area, microscopic identification revealed important fungal richness belonging to four phyla: Ascomycota, Glomeromycota and Basidiomycota with the exclusive presence of Mucoromycota in dayate Saadi. The fungal strains recorded indicate a high abundance of the Acaulospora sp. and Glomus sp. genera for the Glomeromycota phylum and Fusarium sp. genus for the other phyla. Shannon-Wiener diversity and evenness indices proved to be the highest at dayate Saadi. Dayate El Gouffa, however, is the least disturbed. Most of the strains recorded correspond to genera with a strong affinity for environments rich in organic matter, with high levels of total limestone, basic pH, and high levels of clay and fine silts as shown in the dayate Saadi soils. As for the dayate El Gouffa soils, they show a low organic matter content. They are less calcareous, with a very basic pH and predominance of coarse silts and coarse sands. The high rate of these granulometric fractions could explain the presence of Gigaspora sp. only in this daya. Our results indicated the strong impact of soils proprities on the rhizobiome community composition and might be explained by differences in the degree of fungi selectivity for each sampled site.

Inflammation is an important component of the immune response to pathogens and damaged cells. This study aims to assess and compare of anti-inflammatory activities in-vitro and in-silico of essential oils from galls formed on leaves of Pistacia atlantica Desf from two regions in Algeria (four samples from Ain-oussera and four samples from Laghouat). The anti-inflammatory activity was achieved by Nitric oxide inhibitory activity and viability of LPS‑activated RAW 264.7 macrophages, and inhibition activity of 15-Lipoxygenase (LOX), quercetin was used as a positive control. The essential oils from leave gall of Pistacia atlantica species is able to inhibited 15-LOX enzyme with IC50 0.004mg/mL and also inhibited the production of NO produced by macrophages (99.17%) without significant cytotoxic effect (78% cell viability). The molecular docking study confirm the inhibitory effect of the major compounds of the studied essential oil, even ADMET analysis indicate that the major compounds are not toxic.

Objective: To assess the anti-tumor effects of Pistacia atlantica methanolic extract (PAME) compared with cyclophosphamide against Ehrlich solid tumors in mice. Methods: Swiss albino mice (n=40) were divided into five groups: normal control mice, mice with Ehrlich solid tumors treated with normal saline, mice with Ehrlich solid tumors treated with cyclophosphamide intraperitoneally once a day for 14 d, or 50 mg/kg or 100 mg/kg PAME orally once a day for 14 d. Tumor growth inhibition, body weight, tumor markers, liver and kidney enzymes, oxidative stress markers, antioxidant enzymes, tumor necrosis factor-alpha level (TNF-α), and apoptosis-regulatory gene expression were evaluated. Results: Treatment of mice bearing Ehrlich solid tumors with PAME at 50 and 100 mg/kg orally significantly decreased tumor volume, body weight, tumor markers, liver and kidney enzymes, oxidative stress markers and TNF-α level in comparison with mice with Ehrlich solid tumors receiving normal saline. whereas PAME at 50 and 100 mg/kg/day significantly elevated the level of antioxidant enzymes (P

Pistacia atlantica Desf. fruit oil may be considered as a feedstock which is low cost and does not compete with food crops for biodiesel production. The aim of this paper was to investigate the effect of the variation in fatty-acid composition and oil accumulation in developing P. atlantica fruits on the resulting biodiesel properties. Samples were collected from two Algerian sites, i.e. Ain oussera and Laghouat. Gas-liquid chromatography revealed that the oleic acid (51.6–55.4% of fatty acids) was the major component, followed by linoleic acid (21.9–29.4%), and palmitic acid (12.7–19.4%). The highest tocopherol isomer contents were observed in the immature stage (200–256 μg g−1 oil). The quality of the biodiesels synthesized from immature and mature P. atlantica fruit oils was tested according to the international standards. All biodiesel samples exhibited a high energy content with a higher heating value (HHV) of 40 MJ kg−1. Meanwhile, the cetane number, long chain saturation factor, degree of unsaturation, oxidative stability and density were in the ranges 53–55, 4.3–5.6, 101–113, 3.4–3.8 h, and 852–862 kg m−3, respectively. The cold flow behavior of biodiesel was assessed through the cloud point (CP) and the cold filter plugging point (CFPP). The CP value ranged from −4.5 to −2.3 °C, and CFPP from −7.1 to −4.9 °C. The above fuel properties comply with the limits imposed by the EN 14214–08, GB/T 20828–07 and ASTM D6751-2010 standards, showing a promising source for biodiesel production in Algeria.

BACKGROUND: Biological activities of Pistacia atlantica have been investigated for few decades. The fruit oil of the plant has been used for treatment of wounds, inflammation, and other ailments in Traditional Persian Medicine (TPM). OBJECTIVES: The main objectives of this study were to analyze the chemical composition of Pistacia atlantica fruit oil and to study wound healing and anti-inflammatory effects of oil-absorbed bacterial cellulose in an in vivo burn wound model. METHOD: Bacterial cellulose membrane was prepared from Kombucha culture and Fourier-transform infrared was used to characterize the bacterial cellulose. Cold press technique was used to obtain Pistacia atlantica fruit oil and the chemical composition was analyzed by gas chromatography. Bacterial cellulose membrane was impregnated with the Pistacia atlantica fruit oil. Pistacia atlantica hydrogel was prepared using specific Carbopol. Burn wound model was used to evaluate in vivo wound healing and anti-inflammatory effects of the wound dressings containing either silver sulfadiazine as positive control, Pistacia atlantica hydrogel or bacterial cellulose membrane coated with the Pistacia atlantica fruit oil. Blank dressing was used as negative control. RESULTS: FT-IR analysis showed that the structure of the bacterial cellulose corresponded with the standard FT-IR spectrum. The major components of Pistacia atlantica fruit oil constituted linoleic acid (38.1%), oleic acid (36.9%) and stearic acid (3.8%). Histological analysis showed that bacterial cellulose coated with fruit oil significantly decreased the number of neutrophils as a measure of inflammation compared to either negative control or positive control (p

This study aimed to evaluate the quality aspects and shelf life of minced meat of trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) impregnated with derived essential oil (EO) of Pisticia atlantica ssp. Kurdica (Bene) f...

The present study was conducted to investigate the impact of refining process on the chemical properties (fatty acid composition and tocopherols, sterols, and polyphenolic contents), qualitative parameters (peroxide value, acid value, and p‐anisidine value), and antioxidant activity (DPPH radical scavenging assay and FRAP test) of Baneh (Pistacia atlantica var mutica) kernel oil. The results revealed that the refining process had no significant effect on the fatty acid composition. A major finding of this research was the increase in the tocopherol and sterol content up to the bleaching stage followed by their decrease in the deodorizing phase. Some tocopherol and sterol compounds in crude oil were dimerized or attached to other compounds by ester bonding, which are released during some stages of the refining process and this factor is responsible for their increase. In fact, during this process, these compounds are regenerated. The occurrence of this phenomenon in the refining process improved the DPPH radical scavenging power of Baneh kernel oil up to the bleaching stage. Moreover, the content of phenolic compounds decreased after refining of Baneh kernel oil, and only in the deodorizing stage, an increase of these compounds was observed. In general, the results of this study showed that the refining process had a completely different effect on the antioxidant compounds (especially tocopherols) compared to other oils.

Objectives A bio-guided selection and identification of the most active compounds obtained from Algerian Pistacia atlantica desf. Subsp. atlantica. Methods An antioxidant activity guided fractionation was performed on buds’ extract using extensive chromatographic and spectroscopic techniques. The antioxidant potentials of isolated compounds and other unpurified fractions were evaluated against DPPH radicals using TLC plates and test tubes. Results The results showed that all isolated compounds and fractions exhibited eminent DPPH scavenging potential. Two coumarins (7-ethoxycoumarin and 7-hydroxy-5-methoxycoumarin) and two flavonoids (3′,5,7-trihydroxy-4′-methoxyflavanone and 5,6,7,4′-tetrahydroxyflavonol-3-O-rutinoside) were isolated for the first times from the titled subspecies. Conclusions These results confirm that the species of P. atlantica is far from being exhausted of active compounds, especially polyphenols.

Osteoarthritis is the most common cause of disability and aging is the major risk factor. One of the low-risk herbal medicines for reducing pain and inflammation in persian medicine is Pistacia atlantica gum. A triple-blind placebo-controlled clinical trial was performed in order to evaluate the efficacy of P. atlantica gum ointment on knee osteoarthritis in elderly people. A total of 60 patients were randomly allocated to two groups. The intervention group used 4% P. atlantica ointment and the control group used placebo, topically applied three times a day, for 8 weeks. The patients were evaluated before and after the intervention using the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) scale. There were significant differences (p

Background: Bacterial infectious diseases caused by antibiotic resistance and biofilm formation agents are one of the most important challenges researchers and doctors face. Therefore, many studies have been done on medicinal plants to find phytochemical antibacterial and anti-biofilm agents. Objectives: In this study, the antibacterial and anti-biofilm activities of the acetone and aqueous extract of Pistacia atlantica leaf, fruit, and gall were evaluated against some bacteria. Methods: The leaves, fruits, and galls of P. atlantica were collected from the forests of Lorestan province, Iran. Antibacterial effects of extracts were studied by well diffusion method against Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus cereus, Enterococcus faecalis, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Escherichia coli. Microdilution method was used to evaluate the minimum inhibitory concentration and minimum bactericidal concentration of extracts. Anti-biofilm activity of acetone and aqueous extracts in sub-lethal concentration was investigated by crystal violet-stained microtiter method. Results: Acetone extract of P. atlantica had significant antibacterial effects against tested bacteria except for E. coli. There was a significant relationship between antibacterial activity and extract concentration (P

In this study, we investigate the effect of different abiotic environmental factors on the chemical constituents of Pistacia atlantica Desf and their bioactive potential. Altitude, temperature, precipitation, and harvest season were the key factors. Forty-three samples of P. atlantica, including leaves and galls, were collected from two different bioclimatic areas (Tilghemt and Aflou), at two separate seasons (2018 and 2019). Phytochemicals were quantified for each sample, and the biological activities were also determined. The present study aimed for the first time to highlight the relationship and the interactions between the environmental factors and the active substance contents of P. atlantica crude oils and phenolic extracts, by the implementation of multivariate statistical analyses. Four principal components were identified with an information percentage varied between 63.47% and 72.67%. The PCA analysis allowed us to classify the phytoconstituents of P. atlantica and their biological activities according to the geographical origin and the climatic conditions into two clouds of points. It seems from our findings that the harvest season factor could tip the scales and affected inversely the phytochemical constituents of P. atlantica leaves and their antioxidant potential. All results consistently supported the conclusion that the variation on the environmental factors had a significant influence on the chemical constituents of crude oils and phenolic extracts as well as their antioxidant activity and EC 3.2.1.1-α-amylase inhibitory effect.

BACKGROUND: The present work stands as an endeavor to uncover the ideal harvesting time of leaves in which they exhibits the maximum contents of bioactive molecules such as essential fatty acids, tocopherols and carotenoids. METHODS: A large scale investigation was carried out for the leaves of Pistacia atlantica involving a large number of populations collected over a period of four months during the growing season. The antioxidant activity was evaluated using both DPPH and β-carotene assays. The chemical percentage variability of the fatty acids was investigated using statistical analysis methods (Agglomerative Hierarchical Clustering “AHC”, also cited as CAH). OBJECTIVE: During the growth period, the effects of harvesting date on the total contents of lipids, tocopherols, carotenoids, fatty acids composition and also the antioxidant activities of the lipids were investigated. RESULTS: The content of myristic acid and other saturated fatty acids increased during leaf development, while linoleic, linolenic acids and unsaturated fatty acids decreased. The highest percentages of both linolenic C18:3 (27.25±5.92%) and linoleic acids C18:2 (17.68±3.80%) were obtained for the month of May at the first stage of leaves development (young leaves), but higher percentage levels of C18:1, were obtained for both consecutive months of August & September (28.83±6.50%; 27.79±8.63%, respectively) at intermediate developing stage. The lipids, tocopherols, carotenoids contents and the saturated and unsaturated fatty acids were dependent on the harvest time. The antioxidant activity showed higher powers at the first developing stage (May). Two main clusters and two sub-clusters of the fatty acids were distinguished and were also depending clearly on the period of the collection. CONCLUSIONS: The results showed that the FA were dependent on the period of collection of the leaves. The main result of this study illustrate the nutritional potential (richness in MUFA such as C18:1, 2, 3) of the oil of P. atlantica leaves, which can provide opportunities for rational exploitation in the food industries or for medicinal purposes.

The detection qualitative of Phytochemical compounds of extracts was carried out using color reagents, total content of phenols and flavonoids was specified using folin– ciocalteu and aluminium chloride method, respectively, and antioxidant activity was determined through its ability to free radicals scavenging using DPPH radical. The efficacy of the plant extracts against pathogenic bacteria was studied by agar well diffusion method with different concentrations, and microdilution method was used to measure minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of all plant extracts. The results showed presence of tannins, phenols, and flavonoids in all extracts of both plants, while saponins were found in aqueous extracts only, cardiac glycosides and coumarins were absent in all plant extracts. Ethanolic extract of Pistacia atlantica recorded the highest content of phenols and flavonoids as 263.76 ± 0.53 (mg GAE/g Dw) and 46.83 ± 0.55 (mg RE/g Dw), respectively. While aqueous extract of Pinus canariensis recorded the lowest content of of phenols and flavonoids 30.11 ± 0.37 (mg GAE/g Dw) and 5.43 ± 0.38 (mg RE/g Dw), respectively. Both plants have been shown to have good antioxidant activity, as ethanolic extract of P. atlantica recorded the best ability to free radicals scavenging 90.27% ±1.51, ethanolic extracts of both plants were the most effective in inhibiting bacteria especially at high concentrations (500 mg/mL); the inhibition zone diameter of P. atlantica extract was reached against Shigella boydii 33.56 mm, while aqueous extract of P. canariensis was the most effective against Pseudomonas aeruginosa; the inhibition zone diameter was 21 mm. MIC ranged between 5.468 and 43.75 mg/mL depending on plant extract and bacterial species. This confirms the importance of plant extracts as a natural source of antibacterial to confront problems of increasing bacterial resistance to antibiotics that threaten public health.

Silver nanoparticles AgNPs were synthesized from an extract of Pistacia atlantica plant. After mixing the silver nitrate solution and extract of P. atlantica leaves, they changed its color to dark brown. UV–vis spectroscopy result showed maximum adsorption at 468 nm, which represents the characteristic surface plasmon resonance of nanosilver. FTIR spectroscopy results recorded a downward shift of absorption bands between 500 and 1700 cm−1 indicting the formation of silver nanoparticles. X-ray crystal analysis showed that the silver nanoparticles are highly crystalline and exhibit a cubic, face-centered lattice with characteristic (111), (200), (220), and (311) orientations. Composition analysis obtained from SEM–EDXA confirmed the presence of elemental signature of silver. Results also showed that biosynthesized AgNPs exhibit remarkable antioxidant activity using DPPH method with IC50 = 0.47 mg/ml. In addition, synthesized AgNPs were also found to control the growth of E. coli, S. aureus and Acinetobacter baumnnii on nutrient medium with 13, 12 and 11 mm mm zone of inhibition, respectively. The main compounds that were identified in the methanolic and the ethanolic extracts of P. atlantica Desf are ascorbic acid, gallic acid, tannic acid, rutin, and quercetin which were performed by HPLC technique. The AgNPs synthesized from the leaf extract of P. atlantica can be a good method for the preparation of various nano formulations.

We report on one new cecidophyine species, Cecidophyes fibigiae n. sp. from Fibigia clypeata (L.) Medik. (Brassicaceae) and three new combinations and seven new records of phyllocoptine mites in Crimea: Abacarus hystrix (Nalepa 1896) from Elytrigia elongata (Host) Nevski (Poaceae), Aculodes cf holcusi Skoracka 2004 from Aegilops biuncialis Vis. (Poaceae), Aculops coronillae (Canestrini & Massalongo, 1893) n. comb. from Securigera varia (L.) Lassen (Fabaceae), Aculops longifilis (Canestrini 1891) n. comb. from Onobrychis miniata (Kit.) DC. (Fabaceae), Aculus sp. from Galium humifusum M.Bieb. (Rubiaceae), Anthocoptes recki (Bagdasarian, 1972) from Pistacia atlantica subsp. mutica (Fisch. & C.A. Mey.) (Anacardiaceae), and Anthocoptes thymi (Nalepa) n. comb. from Thymus callieri Borb. ex Velen. (Lamiaceae). Partial mitochondrial Cox1 sequences (about 1150 bp) of all found species were obtained (GB accession numbers MW439274–MW439282).

This study reports an efficient and fast procedure for the purification of laccase (PaL) obtained from the resin of Pistacia atlantica Desf. It was purified by one-step affinity chromatography and showed the specific activity of 393 U/mg with 81.9-fold purification. The molecular weight of PaL was estimated to be approximately 60 kDa using gel electrophoresis SDS-PAGE. Moreover, it depicted diphenolase activity and high affinity towards 2,6-dimethoxy phenol (Km = 10.01 ± 0.5 mM) and syringaldazine (Km = 6.57 ± 0.2 mM) comparing with plant-origin polyphenol oxidases reported in the literature. It should be noted that PaL possessed optimal activity at pH 7.5 and 45 °C. It also remained stable under different conditions of pH (6.5–8.0), temperature (25–45 °C), and when it was exposed to several metal ions. The MTT and flow cytometry assays demonstrated that the enzyme treatment significantly affected growth of HeLa, HepG2, and MDA-MB-231 cells with LC50 values of 4.83 ± 0.02, 61 ± 0.31, and 26.83 ± 0.11 μM after 72 h, respectively. Novelty statement This is the first attempt to isolate and characterize a new oxidoreductase from the resin of Pistacia atlantica Desf., native species of Iran, to recruit it in cytotoxicity researches. In the purification process by an efficient affinity column (SBA-NH2-GA), the enzyme was eluted promptly with a satisfied yield. The purified laccase exerted higher affinity to diphenolic compounds and pH-thermal stability compared to other plant-derived polyphenol oxidases. The purified enzyme was found to show anti-oxidant capacity and significantly inhibited the growth of cancerous cells in vitro. PaL showed more cytotoxic activity towards HeLa and MDA-MB-231 cells by induction of apoptosis. The cytotoxic activity of the laccase was measured by flow cytometry.

Background and objectives: Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a recurrent chronic inflammatory disease of the gastrointestinal tract. In Iranian traditional medicine, the oleo-gum-resin of the genus Pistacia is recommended for treatment of various diseases including gastrointestinal disorders. The present study investigated the therapeutic action of a combination of Pistacia atlantica subspecies kurdica oleo-gum-resin and honey in acetic acid-induced colitis in rats. Methods: Pistacia atlantica oleo-gum-resin was mixed with honey. The mixture was suspended in distilled water. Following induction of colitis with 4% acetic acid in all animals, except in sham group,themixture was orally administered for two consecutive days at the concentrations of 100, 200, 400 mg/kg. Other groups included the control, sham and a standard group (dexamethasone). Microscopic and histopathologic examinations were conducted in inflamed colonic tissue. The inflammatory biomarkers of colitis including interleukin 6 (IL-6), tumor necrosis factor (TNF-α), and myeloperoxidase (MPO) and the gene expression level of toll like receptor-4 (TLR-4) were assessed. Results: Pistacia atlantica oleo-gum-resin+ honey induced significant progress in macroscopic and microscopic scores. Colonic levels of MPO, IL-6, and TNF-α significantly declined in rats treated with the mixture; while significant decrease in mucosal gene expression of TLR-4 and significant improvement of colitis were observed. Pistacia atlantica oleo-gum-resin (400 mg/kg) + honey (400 mg/kg)reduced inflammation of the bowel and colonic ulcer severity shown by downregulation of inflammation cytokines, reduction of neutrophil infiltration, and suppression of TLR-4 expression. Conclusion: The combination might be a promising supplement for treatment of inflammatory disorders.

Background: Medicinal herbs such as Pistacia Atlantica (P. Atlantica) subsp. Kurdica have antimicrobial effects. The present study is aimed to investigate the nanocluster structure of P. atlantica subsp. Kurdica turpentine and its composing elements and antibacterial effect. Methods: 100 μl ethanol was used to dissolve oily turpentine. 2, 2.2, 2.4, and 2.6 μg/μl of turpentine were used for investigating the antibacterial effects using disk and well diffusion methods. Elemental and nanocluster structure analyses were performed by Energy-Dispersive X-Ray Microanalysis (EDXMA) and Field Emission (FE)-scanning electron. Two-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Bonferroni test were used for data analysis (p ≤ 0.001). Results and Discussion: EDXMA elemental analysis of turpentine included: Zinc (Zn), Magnesium (Mg), Fluorine (F), Oxygen (O), Silicon (Si), Carbon (C), and Argentum (Ag). A topography image of the turpentine showed a nanocluster surface with bright clusters in the background. The largest diameters of the growth inhibition zones (24.67 ± 0.58 mm in the disk diffusion and 23.67 ± 1.53 mm in the well diffusion) that were created by turpentine were observed against S. aureus ATCC 25923 at the concentration of 2.6 μg/μl. The diameter of the inhibition zone around bacterial growth had a direct relationship with turpentine concentration (p ≤ 0.001). Conclusion: The nanocluster structure of turpentine and its composed elements were detected in this research. Moreover, the antibacterial effects of turpentine were proved. Herbal substances are widely used in medical applications. Different elements of P. atlantica subsp. Kurdica turpentine can be used as antibacterial agents, but more in-vitro and in-vivo studies should be performed in this field.

The present study aims to determine the chemical composition of Pistaca atlantica Desf. collected in the Khenifra region (Morocco). Compounds chemicals of the essential oil were analyzed by gas chr...

Some herbs have a wide range of beneficial properties, including stimulating and strengthening the immune system, their use in fish farms improves growth. Sixty healthy rainbow trout were selected with 150 g weight. They were randomly divided into 2 groups of 30 each with 3 replications. The essential oil was added to the daily diet with 10 g / kg feed and after 3 months the fish were assayed and sampled. some blood parameters was performed. The results showed that the control group had lower food conversion ratio (p < 0.05). Also, consumption of essential oil at this dose had negative effect on liver function and liver enzymes significantly increased (p < 0.05). Total protein, albumin, and blood glucose were decreased and uric acid and creatinine were significantly increased (p < 0.05). The blood cells were significantly decreased. In the histological examination around the central veins of liver was severe degeneration. Evaluation of blood biochemical values showed that AST, ALT in the treatment group significantly increased and total protein and albumin in the treatment group decreased significantly (P

Bene oil (pistacia atlantica), as a plant source, is rich in phenolic and tocopherol compounds and has significant antioxidant, therapeutic and antimicrobial effects. Encapsulation of hydrophobic compounds in liposome system is an ideal solution for protecting them against destruction during storage. An important advantage of liposomes is the encapsulation of hydrophilic, hydrophobic and amphiphilic compounds by using natural phospholipids, such as lecithin, with beneficial effects. The aim of this study is to encapsulate the bene kernel oil in the form of microliposomes. For this purpose, the effect of composition of liposomes based on lecithin and cholesterol was studied using the Mozafari method. Liposomes are prepared using lecithin and cholesterol in the ratios of 60:0, 50:10, 40:20 and 30:30. Particle size, size distribution, zeta potential and encapsulation efficiency were characterised. According to the result, the size of liposomes was dependent on their composition, but the wasaffected significantly affected by adding cholesterol (P < 0.05). Average diameter of the particles was between 4 and 9 µm. Liposome with a ratio of 40:20 had the smallest size. By applying cholesterol, zeta potential increased from 16.4 mV to 32.39 mV, which indicates electrostatic stability of liposomes. In general, with encapsulation efficiency of 84.33%, the ratio of 40:20 is considered as an ideal concentration in the formulation of microliposomes. Based on the results, bene oil-loaded liposomes with a lecithin: cholesterol formulation ratio of :as 40:20 was chosen as an optimal formulation because of its smaller particle size, higher zeta potential and suitable stability, which can be used in trapping, delivering and releasing hydrophilic, adipose-friendly and amphiphilic compounds (dual-friendly).

The density, swelling, and fungal decay of poplar (Populus deltoides) wood treated with pistachio resin (PR) obtained from Pistacia atlantica were investigated. The white-rot fungus Trametes versicolor and the brown-rot fungus Coniophora puteana were used. Methanolic solutions of PR with different concentrations of 1%, 6%, 12%, and 15% were used as the preservative solution. Wood samples were saturated by two different vacuum/pressure (V/P) and dipping methods. The density, volumetric swelling of treated wood, and their mass loss (ML) caused by fungal decay were determined. The density of treated species increased to 15.4% and 5.8% for V/P and dipping methods, respectively, at 15% PR concentration. The volumetric swelling of the treated samples was reduced to 24.5% and 16.8% for V/P and dipping procedure, respectively, at 15% PR concentration. The mass loss of treated samples after exposure to T. versicolor was less than the untreated one (17.4% for V/P and 22.6% for dipping methods at 15% PR concentration). The results showed the better performance of V/P treatment in promotion of wood durability against fungal decay than the dipping method.

The present study reports on a green method for the fabrication of wound dressing loaded with Pistacia atlantica extract. The oil was extracted from P. atlantica plant using a solvent extraction process. The UV–vis spectroscopy showed that the phenolic compounds existed in the P. atlantica oil (PAO). The result of the antioxidant activity with the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assay illustrated an IC50 value of 7.26 mg/ml, which indicated that the PAO was a significant source of natural antioxidants. Then, the PAO-loaded polyvinyl alcohol (PVA)-sodium alginate (SA) nanofibres were successfully produced using the electrospinning process. The results of field emission scanning electron microscopy showed that the addition of the PAO to the polymer solution increased the diameter of the fabricated nanofibres, while the optimum blending concentration of the PAO for obtaining the maximum scaffold stiffness was almost 1.5% (w/v). The physical properties of the fabricated nanofibres were evaluated using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction technique, and thermogravimetric-derivative and thermogravimetric analysis. The results showed that the PAO was bonded to the structure of the PVA/SA nanofibres, and the crystallinity, as well as the thermal stability of the fabricated nanofibres increased due to this attachment. In addition, the experiments showed that the PAO concentration in the structure of the fabricated nanofibres played a major role in the drug release rate, and increasing the PAO concentration from the optimum value decreased the controlled release of the drug. Last, based on the two-film theory, a mass transfer model was developed to predict the PAO released from the fabricated wound dressing.

Objective: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the neuroprotective effect of 150 mg / kg extract of the plant Pistacia atlantica against mercury-induced oxidative stress Methods: Hg was administered intraperitoneally (2,5 mg/kg body weight, one time a week), and P. atlantica and were given orally by gavage at a daily dose (150 mg/kg body weight) to rats for 32 days. 24 male adult Albinos Wistar rats were divided into four groups: group 1 Control, group 2 (HgCl2) group 3 (Hg + P. atlantica) and group 4 (P. atlantica). Paramatrical tests of oxidative stress and histological sections of the cerebral parenchyma. Results: Our results showed that the intraperitoneal injection of mercury chloride HgCl2 causes deleterious effects in the brain resulting in: a failure of redox status by disrupting the antioxidant defense system by a significant decrease in the activity of catalase glutathione peroxidase, glutathione-s-transferase and superoxide dismutase acetylcholinesterase and increase of the activity of the enzyme lactate dehydrogenase. The levels of lipid peroxidation markers were high in TBARS intoxicated rats with protein oxidation increased in the brain intoxicated by. The continuous use of mercury is also at the origin, in brain tissue However, supplementation of P. atlantica extract with mercury-treated rats attenuated some of the harmful and toxic effects of this metal. This clearly demonstrates the protective roles of this plant Keywords: mercury, Pistacia atlantica, Wistar rat, brain, antioxidant, neurotoxicity.

Escherichia coli is the cause of many surgical wound infections.This study was designed to investigate the antibacterial effects of hydroalcoholic extract of Capparis spinosa and pistacia atlantica on E. coli in surgical wounds using a rat model. The antimicrobial activity of Capparis spinosa and pistacia altantica extract was first determined by paper disk diffusion method to determine Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) and also Minimum Bactericidal Concentration (MBC). Then, 30 male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into three treatment groups. A circular incision was made on the dorsal inter-scapular region of each rat. Then, rats were inoculated topically with 1.5×108 CFU of E. coli at the site of skin wounds. The extracts of Capparis spinosa and Pistacia atlantica was applied to wounds twice a day during the experiment. Animals of the control group were left untreated. The results showed that the extract of Caparis spinosa and Pistacia atlantica had antimicrobial effects against Escherichia coli. The antimicrobial activity of Capparis spinosa extract against E. coli was higher than the Pistacia atlantica extract (The MIC and MBC values). Also there was a significant difference in the rats treated with the extracts in comparison to the control group. It can be concluded that the extracts of these plants have antimicrobial properties and inhibit the growth of Escherichia coli in infected wounds and thus can accelerate the wound healing process. Conflict of interest: None declared.

Resin extraction from wild pistachio trees is an extant agroforestry practice in Western Iran. This practice plays a great socio-economic role in rural communities, but its effects on tree survival and forest stand persistence is still unknown. The objective of this study was to assess how this practice could affect the persistence of wild pistachio stands. Specifically, we (1) analyzed the biometric indices of wild pistachio trees under resin extraction vs untreated trees, and (2) evaluated the changes in the distribution of biometric indices classes of resonated wild pistachio trees. Two paired stands, including an unmanaged stand and a managed stand were selected. Tree species was recorded and diameter at breast height (dbh) for all trees (dbh ≥ 5 cm) was measured. Total height, trunk height, and crown diameters were measured in wild pistachio trees as well. Results indicated that the traditional method of resin extraction alters the frequency distribution of trees in all the biometric indices measured. The median dbh (36 cm and 26 cm in unmanaged and managed stands, respectively), total height (6.4 m and 5.1 m, respectively) and crown area (44.2 m2 and 23.3 m2, respectively) differed significantly between investigated stands. Trunk height (2.7 m and 3.2 m, respectively) and trunk height to total height ratio (0.43 and 0.62, respectively) were significantly higher in the managed stand. Resin-tapped trees reached a lower height and crown size for a given stem diameter, indicating that resin-tapping induce some kind of stress and/or consumption of resources that slow down tree growth.

The aim of current study was to investigate the antimicrobial effect of gum essential oil of Pistacia atlantica (wild pistachio) tree (GEO) and design a new film based on polypropylene polymer coated with silica nanoparticles and GEO. The antimicrobial activity of the packaging film was evaluated with or without milk on Staphylococcus aureus, Salmonella enterica, Escherichia coli, and Listeria monocytogenes during 35 days. The results showed that GEO has significant antibacterial properties. It was most effective on Salmonella enterica, while its effect on Listeria monocytogenes was the weakest. Antimicrobial activity of the film without milk showed no significant differences among the different sizes of nanoparticles used (0.05, 0.025, and 0.051 g) (p ≥ .05). It can be concluded that polypropylene incorporated with GEO and silica nanoparticles active film had antimicrobial properties up to 35 days, while using with milk or without milk. Therefore, this type of packaging is effective to enhance the shelf life of milk.

Chronic exposure to mercury (Hg) increases the risk of developing serious human disorders from the embryo to adulthood. The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the hepatorenal protective effect of natural products such as the aqueous extract of Pistacia atlantica against the toxicity and oxidative stress induced by mercuric chloride in male rats. Adult Wistar rats weighing between 55 and 65 g were randomly assigned to 3 lots. The ani-mals were administered with mercury chloride (HgCl2) intraperitoneally for 32 days. The group intoxicated were administered with 2.5 mg/kg of HgCl2, while the group of treated by HgCl2 and P.atlantica received 2.5 mg/kg of HgCl2 and 150 mg/kg of aqueous extract of P.atlantica. The liver and kidney weight, and marker enzymes (alkaline phosphatase, serum total protein content, urea, uric acid, creatinine, direct and total bilirubin and lipid profile), the metal contents, and histopathological investigation were determinated. The results showed an decrease in levels of biochemical parameters in the serum of animals treated with HgCl2 and P. atlantica. An improvement of liver and kidney functions was also observed. The results showed that ad-ministration of Pistacia atlantica aqueous extract represents a promising candidate for the treatment of liver and renal damages.

Background: Pistacia atlantica kurdica has recently been shown to possess free radical scavenging ability. The current study aims to investigate the protective effect of this plant against cadmium-induced nephrotoxicity. Methods: Thirty-six rats were divided into 6 groups (6 in each), and treated as follows: group 1 received normal saline (control group), group 2 (positive control) received cadmium by drinking water (100 mg/ L/d), group 3 received 200 mg/kg of P. atlantica extract, and groups 4-6 received cadmium as well as 50, 100 and 200 mg/kg/d of P. atlantica extract (orally), respectively. After 2 weeks, oxidative damage and renal function markers were assayed by standard methods. Results: In cadmium group, a significant increase was observed in serum blood urea nitrogen (BUN) (PPPP. atlantica extract improved the LPO, TTM, and histopathological changes in renal tissue. Conclusion: In this study, although the P. atlantica extract did not have a significant effect on cadmiuminduced renal dysfunction, it did improve the oxidative/antioxidant balance in renal tissue.

The effect of different drying procedures on the quality characteristics of Pistacia atlantica subsp. kurdica is addressed in this work. Using five different drying methods include microwave, oven (40 and 60°C), sun, and shade, P. atlantica were dried. The variations in moisture content, drying rate, major components of essential oil, and texture property were assessed at the start and at the end points of the drying process. Comparison of the drying methods indicated that microwave drying to be most effective in lowering moisture content, while the shade drying had the lowest rate among methods. In the case of microwave, the dried seeds had highest brittleness, while the highest score for the penetration force was observed in oven 40°C. Regarding major elements of the essential oil (α‐pinene, α‐terpinen‐4‐ol, myrcene, β‐ocimene, β‐caryophyllene, and limonene), there were no significant differences between the five drying techniques, nor compared to the fresh sample. To model the drying process, six thin‐layer drying kinetic models were chosen. It was found that the Midilli–Kucuk model was the most suitable for explaining the drying curve of oven 40 and 60°C, microwave, and sun methods; Wang and Singh model was excellent to explain thin‐layer shade drying behavior of the P. atlantica seeds. In conclusion, in this study, an opportunity is represented to apply the most effective procedures to decrease the drying period and to achieve a product with appropriate safety and quality features., The Midilli–Kucuk model was found to be the most suitable for describing drying curve of oven 40 and 60°C, microwave, and sun methods; and Wang and Singh model was found to best explain thin‐layer shade drying behavior of the P. atlantica seeds. This study represents an opportunity to apply the most effective procedures to reduce the drying period.

The present study aimed to increase the seed germination and the initial performance of pistachio seeds by investigating the effects of the magnetic field and osmopriming treatments simultaneously. 10 treatment levels of 10, 20 and 30 mT for 5, 15, 25 minutes and 1 control treatment (without exposure to a magnetic field) were performed in three replicates and the best level of magnetic surface was selected. The results showed that seeds subjected to the magnetic field showed an increase in plumule length, radicle length, total length of seedlings, fresh and dry weight of plumule as well as radicle and germination speed compared with the control treatment. However, there was no significant difference in the germination percentage and uniformity of seeds. Magnetized seeds, with the superior selective treatment (10 mT for 15 minutes), were primed with solutions of potassium nitrate, humic acid and salicylic acid at levels of 10, 25 and 40 mM and a control level (the best level of magnetism) in three replicates. The best result was obtained from humic acid (25 mM). With regard to the low cost of the purchase or construction of magnetic devices and their positive effects, their application could be recommended (10 mT for 15 minutes) combined with the humic acid (25 mM)) so that the quality of pistachio seedlings production would be increased.

Introduction Pistacia atlantica subsp. kurdica is an important food source and a well-known medicinal plant in the Zagros Mountains of Iran. The present study aimed to investigate the effect of P. atlantica extract and essential oil in streptozotocin-induced diabetic mice. Materials and Methods Different doses of hydroalcoholic extract and essential oil of P. atlantica subsp. kurdica (50, 100, and 200 mg/kg) were given to streptozotocin-induced diabetic mice in separate groups for three weeks. At the end of treatment, blood samples were collected; then, oxidative stress markers, TNF-α, and lipid profile were determined in its serum samples. Results Our findings showed that the administration of P. atlantica extract for three consecutive weeks significantly improved the lipid profile, oxidative stress, and inflammation process by reducing lipid peroxidation and increasing total antioxidant capacity. Conclusion This study showed that P. atlantica subsp. kurdica has antioxidant and blood lipid-lowering effects that can be used as a supplement to improve diabetes complications.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: Busulfan is a chemotherapy drug that has side effects such as hepatic and renal injury. Pistacia atlantica from the family Anacardiaceae has a potent antioxidant agent due to phenolic compounds. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of Pistacia atlantica on histopathology and liver and kidney function indicators in busulfan-induced liver and kidney injuries in adult mice. METHODS: A total of 28 BALB/c mice were randomly divided into four groups (control, busulfan, bene and bene+busulfan). The busulfan group received 10 mg/kg busulfan as a single dose and intraperitoneally. The bene group received plate containing 10% of bene for 35 days. The bene+busulfan group received 10 mg/kg busulfan+10% bene. Then, liver enzymes alanine amino transferase, aspartate amino transferase, urea, creatinine and histopathology of liver and kidney investigated. FINDINGS: The mean urea (P= 0.009) and creatinine level (P= 0.02) in the busulfan group was 55.2±4.23 and 0.8±0.11 mg/dl that it was significantly higher than the bene + busulfan. A significant decrease in ALT level in the bene + busulfan group compared to the busulfan treated group (P= 0.03). In the bene treated group steatosis, necrosis and fibrosis in the liver parenchyma and glomerular sclerosis, inflammation and tubular atrophy in kidney tissue, was not observed. CONCLUSION: The results of present study indicated that administration of 10% bene for 35 days improved histopathology of kidney and liver as well as functional index of liver and kidney after renal-liver injury.

Defensive gall traits against natural enemies, such as predators and parasitoids, attracted much attention of ecologists and evolutionary biologists. To our knowledge, naturally occurring antioxidant compounds present in Pistacia atlantica Desf. Galls have not yet been reported and characterized. The objective of this study is to evaluate the effects of the harvest period and plant gender on these antioxidant activities. Furthermore, peaks present in chromatographic fingerprints, probably showing significant antioxidant activities, were identified. Three antioxidant assays, 2,2 diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and 2,2 azino-bis-(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS) radical scavenging besides the ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP), were applied to determine the total antioxidant activity in galls from both genders of Pistacia atlantica. Fingerprints of ten P. atlantica gall extracts were obtained by Ultra Performance Liquid Chromatography (UPLC). Extensive pre-treatment of the data and a linear multivariate calibration technique, Partial Least Squares (PLS), were used for model construction. Our findings highlighted that gender and harvest period affected the antioxidant activities. Major peaks, potentially influencing the antioxidant activity of the samples, were indicated by studying the regression coefficients of the PLS models. Individual antioxidant compounds of P. atlantica galls were identified by UPLC coupled to a hybrid quadrupole orthogonal time-of-flight mass spectrometer (Q-TOF/MS). The phenolic compounds methyl gallate and valoneic acid dilactone were considered to be important antioxidants in the FRAP and scavenging ABTS assays, while quinic acid showed to be the main component influencing the antioxidant activity measured with the DPPH method. The findings of the present study suggest that P. atlantica gall might be used as an accessible source of natural antioxidants and for the treatment of diseases resulting from oxidative stress.

Pistacia Atlantica in folk medicine is used by Algerian traditional healers for treating a wide variety of diseases and conditions including dyspepsia, digestive problems, peptic ulcers, and, in particular, inflammatory diseases. The present study aimed to assess the phytochemical composition, in vitro antioxidant activity (using 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), ABTS+, and reducing power methods), enzyme inhibitory activity (towards α-amylase and urease), antibacterial activity, and in vivo anti-inflammatory activity of the unripe fruit extracts of Pistacia atlantica collected from different parts of the Djelfa region of Algeria. According to the findings, various aqueous extracts exhibited significant antioxidant and enzymatic activities in all tests, but showed that they have a weak inhibitory effect against all tested bacterial strains. Twenty-one minerals comprising both macro- and microelements (Ba, Br, Ca, Cl, Co, Cr, Cs, Eu, Fe, K, Mg, Mn, Mo, Na, Rb, Sb, Sc, Sr, Th, U, and Zn) were determined using the technique of neutron activation analysis (INAA). The result indicates that the concentration of the mineral element is close to the minimal FAO recommendation. In addition, the result revealed significant anti-inflammatory activities. The data generated can be a valuable source of information for the pharmaceutical industry and medical research. These results suggest that the unripe fruit extracts of Pistacia atlantica have an appropriate potential to be utilized across a wide range of contexts as an agent with multifunctional uses, as well as a natural remedy for other physiological diseases.

The Atlas Pistachio, Pistacia atlantica Desf., from the family of Anacardiaceae is a widespread species in Morocco and widely present in traditional pharmacopoeia 1. This species is frequently infected by Forda riccobonii and Geoica swirskii that are foliar galls-inducing aphids.The aim of this study was to compare the chemical composition of essential oils (EO) of the infected and healthy leaves of Pistacia atlantica. The extraction of essential oils was performed by hydro-distillation using Clevenger, phytochemical screening was realized by revelations tests and chemical composition was identified by gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (GC-MS).Phytochemical analysis showed the presence of some biologically active chemical compounds such as tannins, flavonoids, sterols and triterpenes. The infected leaves were richer in tannins than healthy ones, especially in gallic tannins.Also, the results reaveled that the EO yield of leaves with galls was higher (0.71%) than that of healthy ones (0.11%); also, the first type of leaves was predominated by α-Pinene (19.76%) followed by Terpinen-4-ol, Spathulenol and Sabinene with percentages of 11.94%, 8.90% and 7.63%, respectively. Whereas, healthy leaves were predominated by α-Amorphene (15.05%) followed by Terpinen-4-ol, Spathulenol and α-Muurolene with percentages of 7.17%, 6.46% and 6.20%, respectively.So, we arrived to conclude that infected leaves have a higher level of monoterpenes hydrocarbon than healthy ones that contains interesting molecules useful in differentes domains, especially in the health field.

Pistacia atlantica, an Irano-Touranian member of the Anacardiaceae family, is known for its distinctive ecological plasticity. Both ecological plasticity and phenotypic plasticity are closely related. This latter concept is defined as the variability of phenotypic expression of one genotype exposed to different environmental conditions and producing a large phenotypic range. It is likely that phenotypic plasticity plays an important role in diversification. The morphological features are very important for species characterization. They have mono or a polygenic determinism but they can be influenced by the environmental factors. In the current review, a taxonomic retrospection of Pistaciaatlanticais exposed focusing essentially on its taxonomic status evolution, followed by a botanical characterization of Pistaciaatlantica subsp. atlantica, the only observed representative of the species in North Africa., Arabian Journal of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants, Vol 5, No 3 (2019)

Background: Pistacia atlantica (P. atlantica) has been associated with beneficial medical effects on gastrointestinal complications. Objective: It was intended to assess the effects of P. atlantica in elimination of Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection and amelioration of gastric reflux and chronic cough. Methods: In this clinical trial study, 100 subjects with H. pylori infection who had the symptoms of gastric reflux and chronic cough were recruited and classified into two intervention and placebo groups, continuing 50 subjects each. The intervention group was administered two 500 mg doses of P. atlantica extract each day. The H. pylori antigen load in stool samples was evaluated using ELISA. The severity of cough and gastric re flux was also determined. Results: The subjects in two groups were age and sex matched and the baseline measurements were similar on the day 0. Nonetheless, it was observed that on the day 14, there was a significant reduction of H. pylori antigen load in the intervention group compared with the placebo group (P = 0.00021). Furthermore, the intensity of chronic cough was reduced significantly in the intervention group (P = 0.0014). The gastric reflux was improved in the intervention group at the end of the study. Conclusion: P. atlantica extract was beneficial in controlling H. pylori infection. It also improved the complications of the infection, like gastric reflux and chronic cough. Hence, it is highly recommended to value natural products, along with traditional antibiotics, in ameliorating H. pylori infection.

Background: The antimicrobial activity of plants has long been considered an effective mechanism for controlling pathogenic microorganisms. Objectives: This study aimed to identify phytochemical compounds of the seed extracts from ethnomedicinal plants of Pistacia atlantica, Cassia absus, and Quercus persica with Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) and investigation of their antibacterial and antioxidant activities. Methods: The seeds were collected from Lorestan Province, Iran. Their antibacterial and antiradical activities were analyzed by disk-diffusion and 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl assays, respectively. Ethanol (96%), methanol (80%), and distilled water extracts were obtained by the maceration method. The methanol extract was used for the analysis of chemical compositions. Results: About 40, 31, and 8 compounds were identified by GC-MS in the seeds of C. absus, P. atlantica, and Q. persica, respectively. Results indicated that 2,4-di-tert-butylphenol (36.043%) and tetradecanoic acid (4.92%) were dominated in the seed extracts of C. absus. However, germacyclopetene (38.119%) and 1,2,3-benzenetriol (8.115%) were dominated in the seed extracts of P. atlantica. Furthermore, 5H-tetrazole-5-thione, 1,4-dihydro-1,4-dimethy (38.505%), and tetradecanoic acid (30.546%) were dominated in the seed extracts of Q. persica. The highest inhibitory activity against Micrococcus luteus was observed on the methanol extract of C. absus with ascorbic acid. A significant difference was observed between the Inhibitory Concentration (IC50) values of methanol extract of C. absus with ascorbic acid. Conclusion: Because of the presence of antimicrobial compounds in the tested ethnomedicinal plants, they can be used to synthesize new antimicrobial drugs in medicinal and pharmaceutical sciences.

This study tests the diurnal variations of water status, leaf gas exchanges and chlorophyll fluorescence in Pistacia vera L. (P. vera L.) and Pistacia atlantica Desf. (P. atlantica Desf.) seedlings. At 40% of field capacity, diurnal variations in water uptake, relative water content (RWC) were estimated every hour between 5:00 am and 7:00 pm. The daily course of light, temperature, photosynthesis (A), stomatal conductance (gs), transpiration rate (E), intrinsic water use efficiency (A/gs), mesophyll efficiency (A/Ci), internal CO2 concentration (Ci) and chlorophyll fluorescence were measured every 3 h from 05:30 am to 7:30 pm in irrigated and stressed seedlings of the two studied species. The results showed a significant variation in all surveyed parameters over diurnal cycle. The stressed seedlings of P. atlantica exhibited considerably higher RWC, water uptake, A, gs, E, A/gs and A/Ci over diurnal cycles compared to P. vera stressed seedlings. In contrast, P. vera was more sensitive to water stress and excess light and temperature over the diurnal cycle. The midday stomatal conductance and photosynthesis decrease was more likely the result of low RWC caused by high transpiration rates, stomatal closture and photoinhibition. Photoinhibition is a protective mechanism of PSII, rather than a result of photo-damage of photosynthetic apparatus. P. atlantica revealed an important physiological feature that is maintaining photosynthesis at midday compared to P. vera. This might be due to internal regulation through several mechanisms mainly better osmotic adjustment, photoprotective mechanisms of PSII.

Acute liver failure (ALF) is a clinical condition with an unclear history of pathophysiology, Punica granatum L peel and Pistacia atlantica leaves are differentiated by the presence of a wide range of flavonoids and phenolic as antioxidant compounds. The purpose of this study was to investigate the hepatoprotective effects of Punica granatum L. peel and Pistacia atlantica leaves either in their normal and/or in their nano forms against thioacetamide induced acute liver failure in a rodent model. Male Wistar rats (n=60) were divided into six equal groups, the first group employed as a control; The second group administered a dose of 350 mg /Kg/ b.w of thioacetamide (TAA)-ip, from the third to the sixth group received TAA + [2mls / 100 g b.w/d] of aqueous extracts of Punica granatum L and Pistacia atlantica either in their normal and/or Nano forms consecutively for (14 days) .In the TAA challenged group, there was a substantial increase in liver enzymes, lipid profiles, LPO ( p= 0.05), and NO, as well as a substantial drop in GSH and SOD, which was followed by an increase in inflammatory cytokine (IL6, TNF-, and AFP), as well as a considerable increase in HSP70 level and DNA degradation. However, ip nano treatment of both extracts resulted in considerable and subsequent improvement of most of the compromised indicators. In conclusion: The current findings demonstrated the great performance of both plant nano extracts, as well as their hepatoprotective effects and possible therapeutic usefulness in the treatment of TAA-induced acute liver failure in experimental animals.

Key message The growth of UCB-1 pistachio rootstock seedlings in the earliest years is a poor predictor of subsequent growth. Therefore, rogueing during the 1st years of growth is not effective. Abstract The UCB-1 hybrid, produced from a controlled cross between Pistacia atlantica (female) and P. integerrima (male), is the main pistachio rootstock used in the USA. Variation has been observed in orchards planted with seedling UCB-1 rootstocks for over 20 years. Reduced vigor and stunting of some trees are of particular concern to growers due to decreased nut yield. This study was conducted to better understand the growth of non-grafted UCB-1, as well as between UCB-1 rootstock and Pistacia vera scions in commercial orchards. Phenotypic traits were evaluated in the non-grafted orchard. Grafted tree data were collected for both P. vera female scions and their UCB-1 seedling rootstocks in commercial orchards. The uniformity of tree height, trunk caliper, and canopy volume decreased annually during the first 5 years of growth. Individual tree growth was not linear and was poorly synchronized among siblings, causing the population to become increasingly less uniform as it aged. Consequently, growth in the earliest years is a poor predictor of subsequent growth. The strongest correlation was between growth parameters during the later years. There was a significant correlation between rootstock and scion caliper of the grafted trees in commercial orchards, with the least vigorous rootstocks producing the least vigorous scions. These data confirm the need to reliably rogue out seedlings that later will not be vigorous; however, our data show that rogueing based on the 1st years of growth is ineffective. This study suggests the need to develop predictive molecular markers for rootstock vigor.

Background: Ulcerative colitis is an idiopathic chronic, relapsing inflammation of the colon which is resulted from dysregulation of the mucosal immune system. In Iranian traditional medicine, oleoresin from Pistacia atlantica is used to treat gastrointestinal disorders, including peptic ulcers, dyspepsia and intestinal inflammation. Objective: In this study, we examined the therapeutic and protective effects of oleoresin in acetic acid-induced colitis in rat. Methods: The oleoresin was dissolved in Tween 80% (1% v / v) and doses of 100, 200 and 400 mg/kg were administered orally to animals. Three days after colitis induction, the rats were treated for 6 days and after determining the most effective dose in the treatment, the protective effect was evaluated using the optimal dose of the oleoresin for 6 days. In day 6, colitis was induced and continued for 3 days. At the end, animals were sacrificed for microscopic and macroscopic examination of colon tissues. Results: Dose dependently, Oleoresin of P. atlantica showed therapeutic effects on microscopic and macroscopic examination of colon tissue of rats with ulcerative colitis induced by acetic acid, in comparison with control group(P0.05). Conclusion: This study showed the beneficial effects of anti-inflammatory and wound healing oleoresin of P. atlantica in acetic acid- induced ulcerative colitis in rats.

Background: Pistacia atlantica subsp. kurdica is an endemic plant of Iran which belongs to Anacardiaceae family. This plant has been proposed as an efficacious remedy for gastrointestinal diseases such as inflammatory bowel disease, colitis, and peptic ulcer. Objective: In this study we decided to evaluate the efficacy and pharmacological mechanisms involved in anti-colitis effect of essential oil of Pistacia atlantica in Wistar rats. Method: Sixty Wistar rats were selected for this study and were categorized to 6 groups. Experimental colitis was induced with 3% acetic acid solution. Animals of treatment groups received different daily doses of the essential oil (25, 50, and 100 mg/Kg, orally) and.Sulphasalazine (as the standard drug), for 7 days. At the end of the study, the rats were sacrificed and the colon was removed and assessed for macroscopic and microscopic changes. Also, in order to identify the mechanisms involved in anti-colitis effect of this natural drug, the level of cyclooxygenase (COX)-2 were evaluated. Results: The essential oil of Pistacia atlantica gum significantly reduced macroscopic and microscopic scores of colitis compared with control group (P

A greenhouse pot experiment was conducted at the faculty of sciences of Gafsa to evaluate the effect of phosphorus treatment on two pistachio species. The seedlings of Pistacia vera and Pistacia atlantica were subjected to six levels of phosphoric acid (P2O5) (0, 5, 15, 30, 60 and 120 ppm). Stomatal conductance, net photosynthesis, chlorophyll fluorescence (OJIP) and total chlorophyll content were measured after 1, 2, 3, 6, 8, 9 and 12 weeks of treatment. During the experiment, phosphorus application at 5 ppm increased photosynthesis and stomatal conductance, relative to the treatment 0 ppm only in P. atlantica. However, phosphorus supply at 60 and 120 ppm induced toxicity leading to an inhibition of CO2 photo-assimilation rate, an alteration of photosystem II (PSII) structure and function and reduction in leaf chlorophyll content in both species. The (OJIP) transient showed complex changes in O-J, J-I and I–P phases of fluorescence. Due to phosphorus toxicity, both donor and acceptor sides of PSII were damaged, electron transport perturbed and chlorophyll pigment reduced which resulted in the fall of CO2 photo-assimilation rate, followed by mortality in both species.