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Plant essential oils have been used for hundreds of years as natural medicines to combat a multitude of pathogens, including bacteria, fungi, and viruses. The paper reports the chemical compositions of essential oil hydrodistilled from the leaves and rhizomes of Amomum unifolium Gagnep. from Vietnam. The main classes of compounds present in the essential oils were monoterpene hydrocarbons (10.1% and 23.9%, respectively), oxygenated monoterpenes (14.5% and 4.9%, respectively), sesquiterpene hydrocarbons (40.9% and 21.9%, respectively), and oxygenated sesquiterpenes (20.1% and 26.8%, respectively). Diterpenes (16.1%) were identified in sizeable proportion in the rhizome essential oil. The constituents occurring in higher amounts in the leaf essential oil were aromadendrene (6.9%), occidenol (6.8%), β-phellandrene (6.2%), β-elemene (5.7%), and δ-elemene (5.0%). However, the main compounds of the rhizome essential oil were β-phellandrene (18.5%), torulosol (16.1%), germacrene D (5.7%), α-cadinol (5.5%) and (6S, 7R)-bisabolene (5.1%). The leaf essential oil of A. unifolium displayed higher antibacterial activity than the rhizome oil. The leaf oil showed activity towards S. aureus ATCC 6538, and B. pumilus ATCC 14884, with MIC values of 75.0 μg/mL and 37.5 μg/mL, respectively. On the other hand, the rhizome essential oil displayed activity against the organisms at MIC value of 150.0 μg/mL. Both essential oils exhibited antibacterial activity to E. coli ATCC 8739, with MIC value of 150.0 μg/mL. The antimicrobial activity of A. unifolium essential oils are being reported for the first time as a confirmation of the ethnomedical uses of A. unifolium in the treatment of diseases especially antimicrobial infections. Furthermore, the paper discusses the chemotaxonomy of Amomum oil samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Food spoilage caused by foodborne microorganisms will not only cause significant economic losses, but also the toxins produced by some microorganisms will also pose a serious threat to human health. Essential oil (EOs) has significant antimicrobial activity, but its application in the field of food preservation is limited because of its volatile, insoluble in water and sensitive to light and heat. Therefore, in order to solve these problems effectively, this paper first analyzed the antibacterial effect of EOs as an antimicrobial agent on foodborne bacteria and its mechanism. Then, the application strategies of EOs as a sustained-release antimicrobial agent in food preservation were reviewed. On this basis, the release mechanism and application cases of EOs in different antibacterial composites were analyzed. The purpose of this paper is to provide technical support and solutions for the preparation of new antibacterial packaging materials based on plant active components to ensure food safety and reduce food waste. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Clove oil extraction has garnered increasing attention for its diverse applications, ranging from traditional medicine to the food and cosmetic industries. This paper presents a comprehensive bibliometric review aimed at mapping the evolving landscape of clove oil extraction research. By systematically analyzing a wealth of scholarly publications, the advances, challenges, and future directions in this field. Our bibliometric analysis encompasses key dimensions, including publication trends, prolific authors and institutions, prevalent research themes, and methodological approaches are highlighted. The review identifies notable advancements in clove oil extraction methodologies, shedding light on novel techniques and innovations that have shaped the research landscape. Concurrently, challenges such as standardization, sustainability, and economic feasibility are scrutinized, providing a nuanced understanding of the current limitations in the field. Furthermore, we delve into emerging research directions and propose avenues for future exploration. The synthesis of this bibliometric review not only consolidates existing knowledge but also serves as a valuable resource for researchers, practitioners, and policymakers interested in the sustainable development of clove oil extraction. Through this mapping exercise, we aim to guide the trajectory of future research, fostering innovation and addressing the challenges associated with this vital aspect of essential oil production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The chemical constituents of essential oils from Zingiber plants are known to exhibit chemical variability. The objective of this work was to analyze for the first time the contents and the chemical diversity of the essential oils from the leaves, stems and roots of Zingiber pellitum Gagnep, belonging to Zingiberaceae family collected in Binh Chau-Phuoc Buu Nature Reserve, Ba Ria-Vung Tau, Vietnam. The essential oils were isolated by hydrodistillation and their constituents were investigated by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC/MS-FID). The essential oils from Z. pellitum were obtained in yield of 0.20% (leaves), 0.12% (stems) and 0.27% (roots). The essential oils from the leaves of Z. pellitum consist mainly of β-caryophyllene (51.7%), β-pinene (12.0%), α-pinene (10.0%), while β-caryophyllene (24.9%), β-pinene (19.8%) and α-humulene (18.8%) were the main constituents of the stems essential oil. On the other hand, 9-epi-(E)-caryophyllene (7.5%), humulene epoxide II (7.4%), α-humulene (6.4%), caryophyllene oxide (5.9%), β-caryophyllene (4.9%), camphene (4.3%), epi-α-cadinol (4.0%) and cyperotundone (4.0%) were the significant compounds of essential oil from the roots of Z. pellitum. Since the composition of the studied leaves, stems and roots of Z. pellitum essential oils differed considerably from each other and previous reports on the other parts of the plant, the paper discusses further the chemotaxonomic implications of the obtained data with respect to Zingiber pellitum and other Zingiber essential oils from Vietnam. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper reports that the main constituent of essential oil from the leaves of Macclurodendron oligophlebia (Merr.) Hartl. growing in Vietnam was α-pinene (81.7%), while α-pinene (67.4%) and limonene (11.2%) were the major compounds in fruit essential oil. The composition of essential oils from the leaves and fruits of Melicope ptelefolia (Champ. ex Benth.) T.G. Hartley was characterized as germacrene D (34.0% and 31.1%, respectively), bicyclogermacrene (5.5% and 7.6%, respectively), d-elemene (9.9% and 9.0%, respectively) and α-pinene (6.5% and 9.8%, respectively). The fruit essential oil contains limonene (4.9%) and (E)-β-ocimene (8.1%). The fruit essential oils of M. oligophlebia and M. ptelefolia exhibited anti-candial activity towards Candida albicans ATCC 10231, with minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) value of 8.0 μg/mL and 32.0 μg/mL, respectively. M. oligophlebia fruit oil also showed action against Enterococcus faecalis ATCC 29212, Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923, and Bacillus cereus ATCC 14579, each with MIC value of 32.0 μg/mL. Also, M. oligophlebia leaf showed higher activity against Pseudomonas aeruginosa ATCC 27853 (MIC, 32.0 μg/mL). The other oil samples exhibited varying degrees of antimicrobial activity with MIC values of either 64.0 μg/mL or 128. 0 μg/mL. The leaf essential oil of M. oligophlebia displayed larvicidal activity against Aedes aegypti larvae with minimum lethal concentration (LC50) values of 16.71 μg/mL and 11.40 μg/mL, respectively at 24 h and 48 h. The fruit oil did not exhibit any larvicidal action. However, M. ptelefolia leaf and fruit showed activity at 24 h with LC50 values of 33.18 μg/mL and 35.06 μg/mL, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although complex coacervation could improve the water solubility, thermal stability, bioavailability, antioxidant activity and antibacterial activity of essential oils (EOs). However, some wall materials (such as proteins and polysaccharides) with water solubility and hydrophobic nature limited their application in complex coacervation. In order to improve the properties of EO complex coacervates, some efficient physical field technology was proposed. This paper summarizes the application and functional properties of EOs in complex coacervates, formation and controlled-release mechanism, as well as functions of EO complex coacervates. In particular, efficient physical field technology as innovative technology, such as high pressure, ultrasound, cold plasma, pulsed electric fields, electrohydrodynamic atomization and microwave technology improved efficient and quality attributes of EO complex coacervates are reviewed. The physical fields could modify the gelling, structural, textural, emulsifying, rheological properties, solubility of wall material (proteins and polysaccharides), which improve the properties of EO complex coacervates. Overall, EOs complex coacervates possess great potential to be used in the food industry, including high bioavailability, excellent antioxidant capacity and gut microbiota in vivo, masking the sensation of off-taste or flavor, favorable antimicrobial capacity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper reports the chemical compositions and antimicrobial activity of essential oils from Blumea lacera (Burm. f.) DC., Tridax procumbens (L.) L., and Ageratum houstonianum Mill., of Asteraceae family grown in Vietnam. The essential oils were isolated by hydrodisitllation and analysed by GC and GC/MS. The Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and Median inhibitory concentration (IC50) values were measured by the microdilution broth susceptibility assay. The main compounds of B. lacera were germacrene D (25.5%), 2,5-dimethoxy-p-cymene (20.6%), β-caryophyllene (17.9%), thymol methyl ether (6.3%). T. procumbens afforded essential oil whose major constituent was β-pinene (13.4%), while germacrene D (21.3%), α-pinene (19.0%), and β-caryophyllene (8.9%) constitute the bulk of A. houstenianum essential oil. The leaf essential oils of A. houstenianum collected in August (MIC, 8.0 μg/mL) and B. lacera (MIC, 16.0 μg/mL) were the most active against Enterococcus faecalis ATCC 29212, with corresponding IC50 values of 4.00 μg/mL and 5.67 μg/mL, respectively. The essential oil of T. procumbens exhibited the most potent activity towards Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923 and Bacillus cereus ATCC 14579, with MIC value of 32.0 μg/mL and IC50 values of 12.45 μg/mL and 7.89 μg/mL, respectively. Also, both A. houstenianum essential oils collected in August and April displayed antibacterial action against Pseudomonas aeruginosa ATCC 27853 with MIC values of of 64.0 μg/mL (IC50, 21.45 μg/mL) and 32.0 μg/mL and (IC50, 15.22 μg/mL). Both B. lacera and T. procumbens showed anti-candidal property with MIC value of 16.0 μg/mL, as well as IC50 values of 5.69 μg/mL and 8.66 μg/mL, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The edible fungi have both edible and medicinal functions, in which terpenoids are one of the most important active ingredients. Terpenoids possess a wide range of biological activities and show great potential in the pharmaceutical and healthcare industries. In this review, the diverse biological activities of edible fungi terpenoids were summarized with emphasis on the mechanism of anti-cancer and anti-inflammation. Subsequently, this review focuses on advances in knowledge and understanding of the biosynthesis of terpenoids in edible fungi, especially in the generation of sesquiterpenes, diterpenes, and triterpenes. This paper is aim to provide an overview of biological functions and biosynthesis developed for utilizing the terpenoids in edible fungi. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Terpenoids are aromatic metabolites in plants. They can improve the adaptability of plants to the environment. Some specialized terpenoids have immense value to people because of the applications to medicine, industry and agriculture. However, it is impossible to produce terpenoids in large quantities because of their complex chemical structures and low content in plants. The regulatory mechanism of terpenoids biosynthesis has gradually become a research hot spot. Here, we provide an overview on the synthesis and metabolic pathways, regulatory pathways, and key enzymes in the biosynthetic pathways of terpenoids. This paper will provide references for further exploring the molecular regulation and improving the content of terpenoids in plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper reports the chemical constituents and the antimicrobial activity of essential oils hydrodisitlled from the leaves of Alpinia globosa Hour (syn. Amomum globosum Lour.) and Alpinia tonkinensis Gagnep. The essential oils were analysed by gas chromatography (GC) and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC/MS) techniques. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values were measured by the microdilution broth susceptibility assay. The absolute yields of the essential oils were 0.16 % (v/w, ± 0.01) and 0.21 % (v/w, ± 0.02), respectively for A. globosa and A. tonkinensis, calculated on a dry weight basis. The major constituents of A. biglobosa were β-pinene (12.1 %), α-gurjunene (10.5 %) and (Z)-13-docosenamide (9.0 %). The compounds occurring in higher amount in A. tonkinensis includes β-pinene (33.5 %), (E)-β-ocimene (9.6 %), γ-terpinene (9.2 %) and α-pinene (8.4 %). The essential oil of A. tonkinensis inhibited the growth of Saccharomyces cerevisiae (ATCC 16404) with MIC value of 25.0 μg/mL. In addition, both essential oils displayed antimicrobial activity against Escherichia coli (ATCC 25922), Staphylococcus aureus subsp. aureus (ATCC 11632) and Fusarium oxysporum (ATCC 48112) with MIC value of 50.0 μg/mL. The chemical constituents and antimicrobial activity of the studied essential oils were being reported for the first time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Raspberry, the fruit of Rubus Chingji Hu, is a widely distributed economic staple food in China. It has long been used as a traditional medicine in mainland China to treat kidney enuresis, nocturnal emission and premature ejaculation in clinic. In this paper, six known compounds (1 – 6) were purified from the fruits of Rubus chingji. Their structures were elucidated as (16α)-16,17-dihydroxy-ent-kauran-2-one17-O-β-D-glucopyranoside (1), (16R) -16,17-dihydroxy-ent-kaurane-2-one (2), 3,3′-di-O-methylellagic acid 4-(5′′-acetyl)-α-L-arabinofuranoside (3), quercilicoside A (4), esculetine (5) and ethyl-β-D-glucoside (6). All the compounds were isolated from Rubus Chingji Hu for the first time. Compounds 3 and 5 shown distinctive free radical scavenging activities in DPPH and FRAP assays. In addition, no cytotoxicity was observed for compounds 3 and 5 against different cancer cells, suggesting that they might be useful as potential antioxidant agents against various reactive oxygen species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, hop aroma emerged as a key quality characteristic of popular beer styles. Accordingly, the instrumental analysis of hop derived odorants in beer advanced as a must have analytical technique for research and quality control purposes. Still, the analysis of hop aroma compounds is challenging. Substance concentrations might strongly vary depending on the beer style, matrix effects might hinder reliable quantification, and SPME-GC-MS based protocols are suspected to lack (long-term) stability. The current paper describes the validation and application of a headspace solid-phase microextraction (HS-SPME) – gas chromatography (GC) – tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS) method for analysis of 16 selected hop aroma compounds in beer. To enable rapid and reliable quantification of selected terpenes, terpenoids, and esters across a wide working range (1–1000 µg/L), instrumental parameters were optimized and three stable isotope labeled standards, namely d5-linalool, d2-myrcene, and d6-citronellol were synthesized and characterized by nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy. Extensive method validation and routine application proves the excellent selectivity, sensitivity, and robustness of the method in all relevant matrices such as light hopped lagers and dry-hopped ales. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Important 'floral' aromas naturally occur in grapes predominantly as flavourless glycoconjugate precursors. Since these aroma compounds can be released by hydrolysis, different glycosidase enzymes can potentially contribute different aromas to wines. In this paper, the effects of crude and purified Candida easanensis JK8 β-glucosidases on wine aroma precursors of Muscat of Alexandria grape powder were investigated by GC/MS combined with stir bar sorptive extraction (SBSE). A total of 19 bound volatile compounds were identified, including phenols, terpenes, aldehyde, ester and alcohols. The concentrations of terpenes especially nerol and geraniol, and β-Damascenone, a C13-norisoprenoid, contributes flowery and slightly fruity aromas were significantly increased in enzyme treated. These results suggest the potential application of this yeast β-glucosidase as an aroma-enhancing enzyme in winemaking. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Terpenoids are principal chemical compounds of Wedelia prostrata Hemsl. and have different biological activities, thus the study on separation and purification of terpenoids from W. prostrata Hemsl. is necessary. In this paper, high-speed counter-current chromatography (HSCCC) was successfully established for preparative isolation and purification of terpenoids from extracts of petroleum ether fraction which extracted from whole herbs of W. prostrata Hemsl. In the process, a total of 750 mg of sample was prepared for HSCCC isolation. Terpenoids were separated and purified with the two-phase solvent system n-hexane-ethyl acetate-methanol-water (9:1:9:1, 19:1:19:1, v/v/v/v). Therefore, 5α-hydroxy-2-oxo-p-menth-6(1)-ene (4.4 mg), 3α-angeloyloxy-ent-kaur-16-en-oic acid (5.6 mg), 3α-tigloyloxy-ent-kaur-16-en-oic acid (5.7 mg), 3α-phenylpropionoyloxy-ent-kaur-16-en-oic acid (7.3 mg), 3α-senecioyloxy-ent-kaur-16-en-oic acid (11.4 mg), and kaurenoic acid (12.3 mg) were obtained from W. prostrata Hemsl. and their purities reached standard determined by HPLC. Among them, 3α-phenylpropionoyloxy-ent-kaur-16-en-oic acid and 5α-hydroxy-2-oxo-p-menth-6(1)-ene were first isolated with high quantity as a useful chemical resource. The structures of these compounds were identified by ESI-MS, 1H-NMR, and 13C-NMR. The present results demonstrated that high-speed counter-current chromatography was a fast and efficient technique for preparative separation of six terpenoids from W. prostrata Hemsl. which provided a useful reference to solve the problem of their sample availability for drug development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context:Scrophulariagenus (Scrophulariaceae) includes about 350 species commonly known as figwort. Many species of this genus grow wild in nature and have not been cultivated yet. However, some species are in danger of extinction. Objective:This paper reviews the chemical compounds, biological activities and the ethnopharmacology of someScrophulariaspecies. Materials and methods:All information was obtained through reported data on bibliographic database such asScopus, United States National Agricultural Library, Biological Abstracts, EMBASE, PubMed, MedlinePlus, PubChem and Springer Link (1934–2017). The information in different Pharmacopoeias on this genus was also gathered from 1957 to 2007. Results:The structures of 204 compounds and their biological activity were presented in the manuscript: glycoside esters, iridoid glycosides and triterpenoids are the most common compounds in this genus. Among them, scropolioside like iridoids have shown potential for anti-inflammatory, hepatoprotective and wound healing activity. Among the less frequently isolated compounds, resin glycosides such as crypthophilic acids have shown potent antiprotozoal and antimicrobial activities. Conclusion:TheScrophulariagenus seems to be a rich source of iridoids and terpenoids, but isolation and identification of its alkaloids have been a neglected area of scientific study. The diverse chemical compounds and biological activities of this genus will motivate further investigation onScrophulariagenus as a source of new therapeutic medications. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Melaleuca polandii, commonly known as "Gold-tipped Bottlebrush", is widely grown in Indian gardens and parks as an ornamental plant. In the present study, the chemical composition, antioxidant, antimicrobial and cytotoxic activities of M. polandii leaf essential oil (MPLEO) have been investigated. GC-MS analysis of MPLEO isolated from plants grown along the coastal plains of Eastern India revealed the presence of 50 constituents with α-pinene (46.17%), 3Z-hexenyl acetate (10.10 %), α-terpineol (5.43%), limonene (3.63%) and ρ-cymene (2.44 %) as the major constituents. MPLEO exhibited moderate antioxidant capacity in DPPH, ABTS and Reducing ability assays with IC50 values of 7.94 ± 0.34 μg/mL, 5.71 ± 0.21 μg/mL and EC50 7.09 ± 0.35 μg/mL, respectively. Of the 5 bacterial strains tested, the EO exhibited highest sensitivity against Bacillus subtilis with the ZOI of 12.66 ± 0.57 mm and strong antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus saprophyticus with MIC value of 6.25 μg/mL. MPLEO exhibited significant cytotoxic effects against Human alveolar lung adenocarcinoma (A549), Human hepato-cellular carcinoma (HepG2), Human cervix adenocarcinoma (HeLa) and normal Human Embryonic Kidney cell (HEK-293) as evaluated through MTT assay with IC50 values of 9.5 ± 0.38 μg/mL, 22.73 ± 0.95 μg/mL, 20.41 ± 0.82 μg/mL and 237.68 ± 9.26 μg/mL, respectively. The findings of the present study demonstrated that MPLEO could be considered as a potential bioresource having applications in pharmaceutical industries as an antibacterial and antiproliferative agent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Solidago virgaurea L. popularly called Goldenrod is a member of the Asteraceae family. S. virgaurea sample were obtained from Binsar, Almora (Indian state of Uttarakhand). The essential oil from the aerial part was distilled out using steam distillation, and GC and GC-MS were employed for analysis. A total of 27 constituents from aerial part were identified constituting 92.92% of total oil composition. The aerial parts of S. virgaurea were found to contain limonene (25.57%), α-humulene (12.19%), linalool oxide (8.65%), benzyl salicylate (6.40%), 1,4-cineole (6.22%) and humulene epoxide (II) (5.93%). The antibacterial activity of this essential oil was studied using disk diffusion and broth microdilution methods on five human pathogen bacteria and six plant pathogenic bacteria. There was moderate to good antibacterial activity in the oil sample extracted from the entire aerial portion of the plant. We did the antileishmanial activity of essential oils with Leishmania donovani (Dd8) promastigotes and intracellular amastigotes. EO was safer on the J774.A1 macrophages and lethal to promastigotes and intracellular amastigotes at different concentrations (10, 50, and 100 μg/ mL). These findings support the traditional uses of S. virgaurea and suggest its potential as a natural remedy for bacterial infections and leishmaniasis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plants synthesize aromatic components during their secondary metabolism, these components are known as volatile oils or essential oils. Oils extracted from medicinal and aromatic plants have been investigated and applied due to their ethnomedicinal properties and the presence of abundant bioactive compounds. Many research studies examined the variations in the yield and composition of essential oil depending on the season and duration of the day-night period. The aim of the present study is twofold, we have performed a bibliometric analysis by using the Scopus database (data collection) and VOSviewer software (analysis) along with a comprehensive review of the literature published to date on the essential oils extracted from aromatic and medicinal plants, with an emphasis on their chemical profiles based on climatic and circadian periods. Extensive research on this relationship between abiotic factors (climatic and circadian) and chemical constituents, has identified significant variability among them. Phyto medicines and preparations with well-defined and verified bioactive volatile components, action mechanisms, and therapeutic potential of essential oils, have been utilized as pharmacological means. During this study, it was observed that this field is under-explored, and only limited data is available so far, therefore it has a lot of scope for future research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The widespread use of pesticides, particularly bifenthrin, has raised concerns about their impact on the environment and human health. Bifenthrin has been shown to have adverse effects on male reproductive health, making it a pressing issue to address. In this study, we investigated the potential of Citrus sinensis 'Maltese Half-Blood' essential oil (CsEO) to mitigate bifenthrin-induced testicular toxicity. Our approach combined molecular docking, network pharmacology, histopathology, along with in vitro and in vivo assays. to evaluate the antioxidant properties of CsEO and its ability to counteract bifenthrin's harmful effects. Our results showed that CsEO possesses robust antioxidant attributes, primarily due to its rich phytochemical composition. Limonene, α-pinene, and γ-terpinene were identified as the most contributive compounds. In rat models, CsEO treatment significantly alleviated oxidative stress markers induced by bifenthrin. Network pharmacology analyses revealed the intricate interactions between CsEO's molecular constituents and their biological targets, with compounds like cedrene and geraniol playing key roles. Molecular docking data demonstrated that certain essential oil components have binding affinities to protein targets that rival or even exceed those of bifenthrin. CsEO effectively counteracted bifenthrin-induced testicular oxidative stress, highlighting its therapeutic potential. Our findings provide compelling evidence that CsEO can effectively counteract the harmful effects of bifenthrin on testicular health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For the purposes of chemotaxonomic distinction of four pine species Pinus nigra, Pinus ponderosa, Pinus rigida and Pinus sylvestris growing in the suburban landscape of the central part of the Czech Republic, resin extracts from tree trunks, needles and female cones were analysed using gas chromatography-mass spectroscopy. Monoterpenes were shown to be the main terpene fraction of the resins of all studied pine species. On average, they made up 80% of the total terpene content. A characteristic monoterpene for distinguishing pine species was β-pinene, with high levels in P. ponderosa, moderate levels in P. rigida and low levels in P. sylvestris and P. nigra. P. sylvestris contained only trace amount of Δ-3-carene (0.6%) in resins from needles and thus belongs to the α-pinene chemotypic variation. Slight seasonal variability in terpene production was found for resins from needles of P. nigra and P. sylvestris. When comparing European populations according to the monoterpene composition of resins from needles, it can be stated that the α-pinene content increased in the order P. ponderosa < P. rigida < P. nigra < P. sylvestris while the β-pinene content changed in the opposite direction. This statement confirms the terpene biosynthesis uniformity of European pines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Helicoverpa armigera (Hübner) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) is an insect pest with great socio-economic importance in different agricultural regions worldwide. This species is highly adaptive and polyphagous, feeding on wild and cultivated host plants. Successive pesticide applications, which negatively affect the environment, are mainly used for managing H. armigera. Studies have investigated alternative methods with low environmental and socioeconomic impacts, including using essential oils. Essential oils are secondary plant-derived metabolites with insecticidal activity in different insect pest populations. Thus, the objective of this study was to evaluate the insecticidal activity of essential oils of Citrus aurantium (Linnaeus) (Rutaceae) and Citrus sinensis (Linnaeus) (Rutaceae) as well as their major component limonene on the biology and reproduction of H. armigera. The essential oils were characterized using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Further, their toxicity and the effects of their lethal and sublethal concentrations in larvae and on biological and reproductive parameters in adults were evaluated. All treatments exhibited insecticidal activity and lethal and sub-lethal effects on the biology and reproduction of H. armigera. Therefore, these essential oils could be used to control H. armigera. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wild growing Origanum majorana L. var. tenuifolium Weston was collected from three different locations (Om1: Avtepe, Om2: Alevkayası, Om3: Kozanköy) in North Cyprus. The essential oils were hydrodistilled and chemical composition analyses were simultaneously performed by GC-FID and GC-MS. The average yields of essential oils were 5.46-8.14%. Major compounds of flowering Om1 oil were cis-sabinene hydrate (45.0%) and terpinen-4-ol (11.1%) while those of Om3 (Kozanköy) oil were cis-sabinene hydrate (33.3%), terpinen-4-ol (12.3%) and α-terpineol (11.5%). In the post-flowering stage, the major compounds for Om1 and Om3, respectively, were cis-sabinene hydrate (16.7% and 18.8%), terpinen-4-ol (18.1% and 14.5%) and α-terpineol (23.9% and 20.0%). However, the main compound of the essential oils of the flowering and post-flowering oil of Om2 was α-terpineol (76.9% and 51.6%). Statistical Principal Component (PCA) and Hierarchical Cluster Analyses (HCA) tools demonstrated the composition variations of the essential oils at different times and locations. Om1 and Om3 (HCA similarity level: 98.98%) were similar while Om2 (HCA similarity level: 46.32%) was discordant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the study was to investigate the antibacterial and antibiofilm activities of Lavandula mairei and Thymus leptobotrys essential oils against Extended spectrum β-lactamase producing Enterobacteriaceae, responsible of nosocomial infections. PCR and sequencing methods detected three different resistance genes (blaSHV-42, blaSHV-12 et blaCTXM-15) in the studied strains. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis highlighted the predominance of carvacrol in both Lavandula mairei and Thymus leptobotrys essential oils. Their antibacterial activity was conducted by disk diffusion and microdilution methods. Great sensitivity of the multidrug resistant strains was noted for the two essential oils with inhibition zones' diameters ranging from 13.3±2.3 to 32.3±1.4 mm (Thymus leptobotrys) and from 22 to 34.66±0.57 mm (Lavandula mairei), and low minimal and bactericidal concentrations varying from 1.56 to 6.25 mg/mL (CMI) and from 1.56 to 12.5 mg/mL (CMB) for both essential oils. Four strains out of six, considered as the strongest biofilm producers by congo red agar and crystal violet methods, were chosen to evaluate biofilm inhibition and eradication effects of Lavandula mairei and Thymus leptobotrys essential oils. In most cases, these latter inhibited considerably the biofilm formation of the targeted strains with proportions greater than 80%. The eradication effect was lower, with rates not higher than 50%. Thus, these essential oils could be used as an effective alternative approach to prevent biofilm formation of multidrug resistant Enterobacteriaceae. To our knowledge, no previous works have reported the antibiofilm activity of Lavandula mairei and Thymus leptobotrys essential oils against these multidrug resistant bacteria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Immortelle (Helichrysum italicum) essential oil is one of the most valuable essential oils with its commercial importance and favorable characteristic properties in various cosmetic products and food products. Current research performed a comprehensive characterization of Immortelle essential oil using powerful and robust analytical techniques. The relative volatile composition of the Immortelle essential oil from Turkey was determined by GC-MS (gas chromatography-mass spectrometry) technique. Thirty-eight volatile compounds were identified. Average total phenolic content and DPPH radical scavenging activities (IC50) were determined as 54.24 mg GAE/mL essential oil and 0.27 mg/ml, respectively. FTIR and Raman spectroscopy fingerprints were determined for chemical characterization. The thermal profile was obtained by DSC (differential scanning calorimetry) analysis. The Immortelle essential oil (12.5 μg/mL) inhibited the growth of Caco 2 adenocarcinoma cells at the ratio of 48% without any deterioration in healthy L929 fibroblast cells according to the cytotoxicity analyses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The chemical compositions of Thymus munbyanus subsp. coloratus essential oils, an endemic plant in north Africa, were investigated using gas chromatography with flame ionization detection and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. The antioxidant activity of the studied essential oils was evaluated through 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and 2,20-azinobis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) diammonium salt (ABTS) free-radical scavenging assays. Disc diffusion method and minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) determination were applied to investigate the antimicrobial activity of Thymus munbyanus subsp. coloratus essential oil against ten bacterial and fungus strains. Fifty-one compounds were identified accounting for 90.3-95.9% of the total amount. Camphor (04.09-25.92%) was the major component in the essential oils obtained from five localities, followed by myrcene (00.66-17.11%) in four stations, then borneol (07.37-38.96%) in the essential oil obtained from three samples. The chemical variability of Thymus munbyanus subsp. coloratus essential oils was studied using statistical analysis, in which we found a direct relationship between geo climatic conditions and their chemical compositions. Thymus munbyanus subsp. coloratus essential oils exhibited a good radical-scavenging activity with IC50 values up to 0.250 ± 0.51 and 0.596 ± 0.15 (mg/mL) in reductive potential of ABTS and DPPH free radicals, respectively, and a significant antimicrobial activity against Gram positive bacteria and fungal species with MIC up to 0.66 ± 0.28 (mg/mL) against Aspergillus flavus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bakuchiol (BAK) is a natural phenolic meroterpene isolated from the fruits of Psoralea corylifolia that exhibits a variety of pharmacological effects, including anti-aging, anti-microbial, hyperpigmentation, and anti-cancer activities. Furthermore, the usage of BAK is gaining popularity amongst researchers since it does not induce the same negative reactions as topical retinoids, such as blistering and scaling, allowing greater adoption for individuals with sensitive skin. The growing trend towards "clean" skin care products, as well as the hunt for retinoid substitutes, has elevated BAK to the status of a "must have" component in cosmetology and dermatology. Although, the pathogenesis of BAK is not completely understood yet it is known to play a pivotal role in acting as a scavenger of free radicals thus exerting an antioxidant effect which is helpful in the management of various skin disorders. It also regulates the expression of collagen and extracellular matrix synthesis enzymes which aids in reversing the signs of photo-aging. Moreover, natural sources of BAK are also being employed in traditional Chinese and Indian medicines due to their antitumor and anti-inflammatory properties. In this review we have provided the occurrence, extraction, isolation methods and structure-activity relationships of BAK. Moreover, this review discusses the pharmacological benefits of BAK, its novel and marketed formulations and a brief overview of its patents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The new natural products reported in 2020 in peer-reviewed articles in journals with good reputations were reviewed and analyzed. The advances made by Asian research groups in the field of natural products chemistry in 2020 were summarized. Compounds with unique structural features and/or promising bioactivities originating from Asian natural sources were discussed based on their structural classification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ContextGC-MS analysis is the best way to characterize volatile sulphur-containing compounds.Ferula(Apiaceae) is a genus of perennial herbs. Due to the occurrence of essential oils or oleoresins in theFerulaspecies, these plants usually possess strong aromatic scent. Terpenoid compounds were the most abundant constituents ofFerulaoils, however, in some ofFerulaspecies, the essential oils were dominated by volatile sulphur-containing compounds. ObjectivesFerula alliaceaBoiss. is considered one of the sources of the oleo-gum-resin asafoetida. In this study, we analyzed the hydrodistilled essential oil from its dried roots and provide new data about retention indices and mass fragmentation patterns of some volatile sulphur-containing compounds that are useful for future studies on this class of compounds. Materials and methodsThe roots ofF. alliaceawere collected during the flowering stage of plant, from Bezgh, Kashmar to Neishabour road, Khorasan-Razavi province, Iran, in June 2012. The oil was obtained by hydrodistillation using a Clevenger apparatus and analyzed by GC-MS. ResultsThis is the first report on phytochemical analysis ofF. alliacearoots. Seventy-six components, representing 99.5% of the oil, were characterized. The major components were 10-epi-γ-eudesmol (22.3%), valerianol (12.5%), hinesol (8.3%), guaiol (7.3%) andZ-propenyl-sec-butyl trisulphide (6.5%). Predominant mass fragment ions of the identified sulphur-containing compounds are explained in this paper. ConclusionThe volatile oil ofF. alliaceamostly contains oxygenated sesquiterpenes, however, its odour was dominated by sulphur-containing compounds. The most abundant sulphur-containing compound includesZ-propenyl-sec-butyl trisulphide (6.5%). [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

The aim of this study was to examine the effect of hydrodistillation time on the chemical composition and antioxidant activity of collected essential oils' (EOs') fractions from black pepper fructus for five hydrodistillation periods: I (0-15 min), II (15-30 min), III (30-60 min), IV(60-90 min) and V (90-120 min). In this way, an essential oil with the desired chemical composition and antioxidant activity can be selected. The essential oil was obtained by Clevenger-type hydrodistillation (CHD). The qualitative and quantitative composition of the collected EOs' fractions was determined by GC-MS and GC-FID analysis. The efficiency of EOs' fractions to scavenge DPPH radicals was evaluated spectrophotometrically. Essential oil yield was 3.0 ± 0.050 ml/100 g of plant material after 120 min of CHD. The content of monoterpene hydrocarbons and aromatic compounds decreased, while the content of oxygenated monoterpenes, sesquiterpene hydrocarbons and oxygenated sesquiterpenes increased with the time of CHD. The most abundant compound of EOs' fractions was (E)-caryophyllene, whose content increased with the time of CHD (I-V: 24.9-36.6%). Results indicated that all collected EOs' fractions exhibited antioxidant activity (EC50 values were in the range I-V: 81.27±0.327–8.02±0.044 mg/ml), where fraction V showed the highest activity. This study proved that CHD time and fractionation affect the composition and antioxidant activity of black pepper essential oil. Future research may be extended to examine other biological activities of black pepper EOs' fractions, as well as synergistic effects of other identified active components of the essential oil, in addition to (E)-caryophyllene, that would affect biological activities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the chemical compositions of essential oils obtained from three plants, namely Salvia officinalis, Lavandula angustifolia, and Mentha pulegium, along with their insecticidal activities and feeding deterrence against Plodia interpunctella, were investigated. The chemical composition of S. officinalis essential oil was majorly dominated by α-thujone (26.99%) and camphor (25.50%); on the other hand, limonene (66.12%), eucalyptol (66.12%), and camphor (14.31%) were the major compounds of L. angustifolia essential oil whereas for M. pulegium EO a dominance of pulegone (83.06%) was attained. M. pulegium essential oil showed important contact toxicity (100%) at 3 hours of exposure with the 0.25 μL/cm2 concentration, followed by S. officinalis and L. angustifolia with 90% of mortality reported with the highest concentration of 0.50% within 3 hours. A relative growth rate (RGR) of 0.08 mg/mg/day and -0.31 mg/mg/day was recorded with S. officinalis and M. pulegium oils, respectively, with the highest concentration of 32 μL/pellet. With L. angustifolia the lowest RGR of -0.08 mg/mg/day was attained with the 16 μl/pellet concentration. The food deterrence index experienced an increase to 89% with S. officinalis and L. angustifolia oils for the three concentrations; with M. pulegium, 68.18% was recorded with the 32 μL/pellet. In conclusion, this study suggests that these essential oils could potentially serve as an effective contact toxicant and a potent eco-friendly inhibitory of the feeding behavior of Plodia interpunctella larvae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The fruit pericarp of Zanthoxylum armatum DC is used in spices and to manage different diseases like toothaches, inflamed gums, arthritis, swollen joints, insect bites, diarrhea, common flu, and respiratory difficulties by local people. In this study, the essential oil was extracted from the fruit pericarp of Z. armatum DC collected from different commercial sites in Nepal using the hydro-distillation method. The chiral gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC/MS) was used to identify the chemical compounds present in the essential oil with their stereochemistry. Major constituents identified in all samples included linalool, limonene, and methyl trans-cinnamate. Linalool, a monoterpene alcohol, exhibited the highest percentages in all three samples, recording 58.31%, 58.45%, and 80.37% in Salyan, Surkhet, and Myagdi respectively. Notably, twenty-five enantiomeric components were identified using chiral GC/MS among its sixty constituents. The enantiomeric component distribution of linalool and limonene was in their (+) dextrorotatory form, while others were dominant in the levorotatory form. This research underscores that Z. armatum from the Myagdi district of Nepal, is a prominent source of the medicinally and industrially important compound linalool, along with exhibiting higher antimicrobial activity. To the best of our knowledge, this represents the first report of a chiral GC/MS study conducted on this plant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tropical Dry Forest (T-dF) is one of the most threatened ecosystems in the Neotropics, due to negative anthropogenic impacts on biodiversity and ecosystem services. Bursera simaruba (L.) Sarg. (indio desnudo, resbalamono), is among the species most reported for the T-dF of the Colombian Caribbean. In this work, the chemical composition and antioxidant and biological activities of B. simaruba essential oil (EO) were determined. EO chemical analysis from leaves and, petiole, and young branches bark (PYBB) of B. simaruba was carried out by Gas Chromatography coupled to Mass Spectrometry; polar and apolar columns were used for component separation. The biological activity of B. simaruba EO (PYBB) against Lasioderma serricorne (Coleoptera, Ptinidae) was determined by the preference area method. EO (PYBB) antioxidant capacity was determined by Oxygen Free Radical Absorbance Capacity (ORAC) assay. Reference antioxidant and standard terpenes were used for relative analysis of ORAC results. α-Terpinene (27.7% and 16.4%), p-cymene (22.8% and 44.0%), and g-terpinene (16.7% and 14.6%), were the main constituents in B. simaruba EOs (leaves and PYBB). EOs were represented by a high percentage of hydrocarbon monoterpenes (∼79.1% and ∼88.9%, leaves and PYBB); while hydrocarbon sesquiterpenes (∼3.1% and ∼4.6%, leaves and PYBB); contributed with a low percentage. B. simaruba EO (PYBB), showed attractant activity, at 0.4 μL.cm-2 (2h: -45%±7%; 4h: -50%±17%); in relation with Stay off, at 0.8 μL.cm-2, which was used as a positive control for repellent activity (2h: 66%±5%; 4h: 75%±21%). B. simaruba EO (PYBB) showed a very low antioxidant capacity (ORAC: 657.2±20.5 μmol Trolox/g sample), related to quercetin, used as reference antioxidant (50816.9±1559.1 μmol Trolox/g sample). However, EO ORAC was higher than the α-terpinene (68.0±10.8 μmol Trolox/g sample), γ-terpinene (51.2±2.0 μmol Trolox/g sample), p-cymene (105.6±6.4 μmol Trolox/g sample), used as standard terpenes. In conclusion, this is the first report on the chemical composition of the B. simaruba EO from Colombia, whose results differ from the previous ones from Jamaica and Guadeloupe. Chemical composition, reported here, with α-terpinene, γ-terpinene and p-cymene as principal compounds, could be used to establish a scientific support that explains some traditional uses. EO showed an attractive biological activity on L. serricorne. EO showed an antioxidant activity lowest quercetin (antioxidant reference), but higher that standard terpenes (α-terpinene, γ-terpinene and p-cymene). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plants of theCannabisgenus are the only prolific producers of phytocannabinoids, compounds that strongly interact with the evolutionarily ancient endocannabinoid receptors shared by most bilaterian taxa. For millennia, the plant has been cultivated not only for these compounds, but also for food, rope, paper, and clothing. Today, specialized varieties yielding high-quality textile fibers, nutritional seed oil, or high cannabinoid content are cultivated across the globe. However, the genetic identities and histories of these diverse populations remain largely obscured. We analyzed the nuclear genomic diversity among 340Cannabisvarieties, including fiber and seed oil hemp, high cannabinoid drug-types, and feral populations. These analyses demonstrate the existence of at least three major groups of diversity with European hemp varieties more closely related to narrow leaflet drug-types (NLDTs) than to broad leaflet drug-types (BLDTs). The BLDT group appears to encompass less diversity than the NLDT, which reflects the larger geographic range of NLDTs, and suggests a more recent origin of domestication of the BLDTs. As well as being genetically distinct, hemp, NLDT, and BLDT genetic groups produce unique cannabinoid and terpenoid content profiles. This combined analysis of population genomic and trait variation informs our understanding of the potential uses of different genetic variants for medicine and agriculture, providing valuable insights and tools for a rapidly emerging valuable industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Asiatic acid (1) is a natural triterpenoid isolated fromCentella asiatica. This paper reports the microbial transformation of asiatic acid by an endophytic fungusUmbelopsis isabellinato obtain derivatives potentially useful for further studies. Incubation of asiatic acid withU. isabellinaafforded two derivatives 2α,3β,7β, 23-tetrahydroxyurs-12-ene-28-oic acid (2) and 2α,3β,7β,23-tetrahydroxyurs-11-ene-28,13-lactone (3). The structures of these compounds were elucidated by spectral data. Compound3has formed an unusual lactone. These two products are new compounds. The possible transformation passway was also discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

The new natural products reported in 2019 in peer-reviewed articles in journals with good reputations were reviewed and analyzed. The advances made by Asian research groups in the field of natural products chemistry in 2019 were summarized. Compounds with unique structural features and/or promising bioactivities originating from Asian natural sources were discussed based on their structural classification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Depressive disorder is a severe psychiatric problem all over the world. Clinical therapeutic agents for the treatment of depression in the market targeting on monoamine neurotransmitters are far from satisfaction due to their adverse effects. Novel classes of antidepressant agents with different mechanisms and low toxicity are needed. Natural products from traditional Chinese medicines have been revealed as new sources to cure the depressive symptoms with various chemical structures and promising activities. This paper reviews natural products as antidepressants documented in Chinese patents so far. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

The new natural products reported in 2018 in peer-reviewed articles in journals with good reputations were reviewed and analyzed. The advances made by Asian research groups in the field of natural products chemistry in 2018 were summarized. Compounds with unique structural features and/or promising bioactivities originating from Asian natural sources were discussed based on their structural classification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Turmeric (Curcuma longa L.), javanese ginger (Curcuma zanthorrhiza Roxb.), and pale turmeric (Curcuma heyneana Val. & v. Zijp) are medicinal plants that belongs to the family Zingiberaceae whose rhizomes contain essential oils and often consumed as traditional medicines based on empirical experiences and hereditary beliefs. This study aimed to determine the chemical components and antibacterial and antioxidative activities of the essential oils of turmeric, javanese ginger, and pale turmeric cultivated in Karanganyar, Central Java, Indonesia. α-Chamigrene (24.92%), zingiberene (29.53%), and 2-pinene-4-one (12.08%) were the largest components found in turmeric, javanese ginger, and pale turmeric, respectively. All the curcumas contain 1,8-cineol with concentrations of 3.32, 1.33, and 7.34% and α-pinene with concentrations of 0.48, 0.61, and 1.31% for turmeric, javanese ginger, and pale turmeric essential oils, respectively. The inhibition zones of turmeric, javanese ginger, and pale turmeric essential oils against Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923 were 10.16 (strong), 7.98 (moderate), and 11.59 mm (strong), respectively. Only the essential oil from pale turmeric showed antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli ATCC 25922 with an inhibition zone of 6.74 mm (moderate). The antioxidative activities (IC50) of turmeric, javanese ginger, and pale turmeric essential oils were 66.08 ppm (strong), 82.76 ppm (strong), and 50.23 ppm (strong), respectively. In the fields of medicines, cosmetics, and foods, turmeric, javanese ginger, and pale turmeric rhizomes essential oils can be used as natural antioxidants and antibacterials against S. aureus ATCC 25923. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this experiment was to use a single-factor design to investigate the effects of different supplementation levels of plant essential oil/palygorskite composite (EPO-Pal) on growth performance, blood parameters, and intestinal morphology of broiler chicken. A total of 960 one-day-old chicks were randomly assigned into 4 treatments with 6 replicates of 40 chicks each. The broilers were fed the basal diet supplemented with 0, 500, 750, and 1000 mg/kg EPO-Pal for 42 days, respectively. The results showed that the 500 or 750 mg/kg groups significantly increased the body weight, average daily feed intake and average daily gain of the broilers at 28 and 42 days (p < 0.05). Additionally, as compared to the control group, the 1000 mg/kg EPO-Pal group exhibited higher levels of immunoglobulins-A, immunoglobulins-G, immunoglobulins-M, and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol while having lower levels of tumour necrosis factor-α (p < 0.05). The content of interleukin-2 and the villus height-to-crypt depth ratio were significantly increased in the 750 mg/kg EPO-Pal group (p < 0.05). Moreover, the activity of total antioxidant capacity and superoxide dismutase were significantly enhanced in the 500 mg/kg EPO-Pal group (p < 0.05). The results are very promising, and EPO-Pal can be considered as an additive to promote the growth by enhancing immunity, antioxidant activity, and improving the intestinal morphology of broiler chickens. Dietary supplementation of EPO-Pal improved the growth performance by increased average daily feed intake of broiler chickens. Dietary supplementation of EPO-Pal enhanced plasma antioxidation and immune response of broiler chickens. Dietary supplementation of EPO-Pal can postively affect the intestinal morphology of broiler chickens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ghoongroo pigs have good adaptability in a low input production system with high prolificacy. The present study was conducted on pre-and post-weaned Ghoongroo piglets from 2–3 days to 12 weeks of age to evaluate the effect of a milk replacer and oregano essential oil (EO) on growth, physiological and immunological responses. Thirty six piglets were randomly divided into three groups. The control group (n = 12) was allowed to suck mother's milk. Second group piglets were provided milk replacer (MR) and piglets of the third group were provided milk replacer along with oregano EO at 500 mg/kg diet. After weaning, piglets were provided standard concentrate diets. The results showed that the body weight in MR and MR + EO groups were significantly higher compared with the control. The MR + EO group had better intestinal microbiota, greater nonspecific innate immunity with the phagocytosis efficacy of neutrophils, lower cortisol concentration and more stable thyroid hormones than the other groups. The better haematological status supported the rapid organ development and improved intestinal health status in both the experimental groups. In conclusion, milk replacer, especially with the inclusion of oregano EO, can lower weaning stress, enhance nonspecific immunity and improve growth and health status of piglets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To determine whether the terpene composition of the resins of Metasequoia and Sequoiadendron genera is useful for chemotaxonomic discrimination, extracts of resins from trunks, needles, and female cones were analysed by gas chromatography. High levels of a-pinene and trace amounts of sesqui- and diterpenes were typical for resins from trunks and needles of M. glyptostroboides. Resins from cones contained also a higher level of (E)-ß-caryophyllene. In resins of S. giganteum, the levels of monoterpenes and diterpenes were nearly balanced. The resins from cones were an exception: 14-isopropylpodocarpa-8,11,13-trien-13-ol predominates noticeably over a-pinene. Using cluster analysis of the terpenes from needle resins, a distinct proximity of Sequoiadendron from USA and Metasequoia from Japan and Sequoiadendron from France and Metasequoia from the Czech Republic was proven. This proximity was caused by the presence of the monoterpene a-pinene in a very high quantity. On the contrary, great differences among S. giganteum growing in Corsica, Croatia, and the Czech Republic were caused by the presence of high levels of different terpenes such as elemicin, safrole, and 14-isopropylpodocarpa-8,11,13-trien-13-ol, each of them being detected only in a single study. The results therefore indicated that there is a proximity between Metasequoia and Sequoiadendron genera but only in some populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The horse herd optimization algorithm (HOA), one of the more contemporary metaheuristic algorithms, has demonstrated superior performance in a number of challenging optimization tasks. In the present work, the descriptor selection issue is resolved by classifying different essential oil retention indices using the binary form, BHOA. Based on internal and external prediction criteria, Z-shape transfer functions (ZTF) were tested to verify their efficiency in improving BHOA performance in QSPR modelling for predicting retention indices of essential oils. The evaluation criteria involved the mean-squared error of the training and testing datasets (MSE), and leave-one-out internal and external validation (Q2). The degree of convergence of the proposed Z-shaped transfer functions was compared. In addition, K-fold cross validation with k = 5 was applied. The results show that ZTF, especially ZTF1, greatly improves the performance of the original BHOA. Comparatively speaking, ZTF, especially ZTF1, exhibits the fastest convergence behaviour of the binary algorithms. It chooses the fewest descriptors and requires the fewest iterations to achieve excellent prediction performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new sesquiterpene, 1-carbonyl-2,8-dihydroxy-11-oxabicyclo [4,4,1] germacra- 2(3),4(5),6(7),8(9)-tetraene (1) and four known compounds (3E, 23E)-3-caffeoyl-23-coumaroylhederagenin (2), (3E, 23E)-dicoumaroylhederagenin (3), morettinone (4), 24-ehylcholesta-3,6-dione (5) were isolated from the ethyl acetate layer of the fibrous root of Alangium chinense (Lour.) Harms. The structure of compound 1 was characterized by its 1H-NMR, 13C-NMR, DEPT, HMBC, HSQC spectrums, and the structures of the known compounds were determined by comparison of their spectroscopic data with those reported by the literatures. The obtained compounds were evaluated for their anti-inflammatory against cyclooxygenase (COX-2). Compound 1 has a good inhibitory effect against COX-2 with IC50 20.43 ± 4.72 μM. The compounds 2–5 have inhibitory effect against COX-2 with IC50 49.19 ± 0.76, 23.29 ± 0.99, 47.78 ± 1.33, and 44.44 ± 0.12 μM, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, plant essential oil (EO) is considered a potential food preservative because of its antibacterial and antioxidant properties. High safety and natural are the main advantages of its application. However, the direct use of EO has many limitations, such as low water solubility, high volatility, high sensitivity to the environment and strong odor. Therefore, encapsulating EOs to form a capsule-like substance is an effective way to protect the activity of EOs. Encapsulation could improve the stability of bioactive compounds, and endow EO with sustained-release characteristics which could extend the actuation duration. Except for playing an antibacterial role, the use of EOs as preservatives in food preservation also helps to protect or improve certain physicochemical properties of food to maintain the overall quality of food. This review classifies and summarizes the encapsulation methods, wall materials and effects of several EOs with strong antimicrobial activity, and clarifies the factors that affect the release of EOs from capsules. The application of EO capsules in food preservation and their various forms of preservation are also summarized to provide more references for future research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The poultry processing sector provides a sustainable source of animal protein of high nutritional quality. Plant essential oils were proposed as natural alternatives to enhance safety and extend the shelf life of poultry meat. However, the applications to this sector are limited due to the low stability and rapid oxidation of the essential oil. The emergence of active packaging incorporating essential oils has expanded potential food applications. Critical factors for successful development of active packaging interventions include appropriate essential oil selection, polymer source selection (carbohydrates-based, proteins-based), the bioactivity as a function of the packaging matrix as well as the target and food constituents, the minimum inhibition concentrations achievable in conjunction with processing conditions. The large gap between the commercially available active packaging and the demand for sustainable environmentally friendly packaging is an important limitation for current applications in chicken meat. Therefore, this article reviews the antimicrobial and antioxidant activity, the green extraction approaches and the applications of essential oils in controlled release packaging (CRP). Moreover, this review aims to fill gap between the CRP and their limitations to expand their potential applications in chicken meat. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The essential oils (EOs) of numerous Ocimum species are well-known. The EOs of O. forskaolii and O. americanum growing naturally in Saudi Arabia are compared chemically in the current study. The GC-MS and GC-FID analysis was used for identification and quantitation of EOs' chemical components, and the chemometric analysis was used to determine the differences between the two species. Additionally, against the weeds Dactyloctenium aegyptium and Chenopodium murale, the allelopathic potentiality of the two EOs was assessed. Fifty-one compounds were assigned as overall O. forskaolii EO' components, with abundance of mono- and sesquit-terpenes (40.49 and 55.15%, respectively). endo-Fenchol (18.15%), tau-cadinol (11.42%), β-atlantol (10.54%), α-eudesmol (7.29%), and α-terpineol (6.94%) were the major components. Sixty-one components were identified via the GC-MS analysis of O. americanum EO, with sesquiterpenes (81.24%) serving as the major class. α-Bulnesene (10.17%), germacrene B (7.72%), endo-borneol (5.51%), isoshyobunone (5.37%), and γ-eudesmol (5.31%) represented the main compounds. Chemometric study showed a distinct difference between the two species' chemical make-up of the EOs, which might be attributed to genetic changes. The extracted EOs of O. forskaolii and O. americanum demonstrated a significant allelopathic effect against the weeds D. aegyptium and C. murale. Compared to O. americanum, O. forskaolii EO demonstrated greater allelopathic activity. The main components of each species may be a candidate for the observed allelopathic activity, which may act singularly or in combination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The antifungal effects of laurel, myrtle and peppermint essential oils and their combinations were investigated in vitro on two strains of Alternaria alternata mycelial growth and in vivo on detached Citrus leaf disease incidence. Myrtle essential oil was rich in α-pinene and 1,8-cineole while peppermint essential oil in menthol and menthone. 1,8-Cineole was the main component of the essential oils from laurel, laurel + myrtle and peppermint + laurel. The combined peppermint and myrtle essential oil was characterized by the predominance of menthol and 1,8-cineole. All tested essential oils, incorporated in potato-dextrose agar, inhibited A. alternata mycelial growth and had a fungistatic effect at concentration 3 mg/mL of medium. A great synergism was detected between peppermint and laurel essential oils against the two strains of A. alternata. The combined laurel and peppermint essential oil reduced mycelial growth rates of inoculated detached leaves at concentration above 1.5 mg/mL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Elettaria cardamomum is known as the 'Queen of spices'; its leaf essential oil (EO) is least investigated and barely utilized. Here we report the chemical composition of E. cardamomum leaf EOs collected from five locations in the southern Western Ghats in India. EOs of fresh and dry capsules were also analyzed for comparison of their chemical profiles. The major constituents in cardamom leaf EOs were β-pinene (35.6–51.9%) and coronarin E (17.7–34.2%). In fumigant toxicity assays against two stored product pests, lowest LC50 against Tribolium castaneum was recorded in EO of fresh capsules (124.05 µL/L), followed by dry capsules (LC50 128.21 µL/L) and leaves (LC50 148.00 µL/L); LC50s of fresh, dry capsule and leaf EOs against Sitophilus oryzae were 30.24, 35.33 and 89.42 µL/L, respectively. This study demonstrates cardamom leaves as a source of untapped bioactive principles which can be viably utilized for the production of botanical pesticides. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to verify the seasonal influence on the Eugenia uniflora essential oils. The collections were carried out in October 2017 and March, May and August 2018. The extraction of the essential oils was performed by hydrodistillation and their composition was determined by gas chromatography. The yield of the essential oils was lower in winter (1.04% m/m). The composition of the essential oils in the different seasons did not change in relation to their compounds, differing only in their amounts. Germacrone was identified as the main compound, having a higher percentage in spring (48.05%) and summer (45.00%). Antioxidant activity (DPPH) may have been influenced by the higher percentages of germacrone, with better inhibitory concentration values (IC50) in summer (0.62 mg/mL), followed by spring (0.98 mg/mL). The E. uniflora essential oils tested have moderate to weak antibacterial activity and were more efficient against Escherichia coli. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Seseli is a large genus of aromatic and economically important herbs of the Apiaceae family that includes eighty-seven taxa, mainly distributed in Europe and Asia. Several species of this genus are extensively used in various popular medicines and based on their traditional uses, much research concerning biological activities have been carried out. In the present study, the chemical composition of the essential oil from aerial parts of Seseli bocconei Guss., a rare plant endemic of Sicily, was analysed by GC-MS. No one report has been previously published on the essential oil of this species. The result showed the presence of large quantity of monoterpene and sesquiterpene hydrocarbons whereas it was practically devoid of oxygenated terpenes. Main metabolites of the oil were germacrene D (18.48%) and sabinene (17.46%). Chemotaxonomic considerations with respect to other oils of Seseli taxa were carried out. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]