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This study assessed the metabolite content and bioactivities of Kakadu plum (KP) from Western Australia (WA). LC-MS/MS and UHPLC-PDA analyzed sugar, vitamin C, and ellagic acid (EA). Functional properties were evaluated by spectroscopic technique, agar well diffusion, and microplate dilution methods. WA KP exhibited higher total sugar (16.3 ± 1.0 g/100 g DW) and free ellagic acid (EA) (23.2 ± 1.7 mg/g DW), along with abundant vitamin C (25.20 ± 0.16 to 131.50 ± 0.20 mg/g DW) compared to Northern Territory KP fruits. The fruit showed strong antioxidant activities, α-glucosidase inhibition, and effectiveness against bacteria, with positive correlations to total phenolic content (TPC), vitamin C, and EA. These findings highlight WA KP's potential for functional foods and pharmaceuticals, emphasizing the importance of TPC, vitamin C, and EA in selecting high-quality fruit. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: There is an ongoing ambiguity surrounding the phylogenetic relationships of Embioptera, but fossil evidence can provide substantial information for phylogenetic analysis. Webspinners possess a potentially rich diversity within Cretaceous Myanmar amber. One new genus and three new species are described here and classified into the families Clothodidae and Scelembiidae. A comparison between extant and extinct species of the Clothodidae revealed that the non-cracking of the male tenth abdominal tergum, rather than hemitergites, may be a plesiomorphy. Additionally, the structure of the ocelli is increasingly found in fossil groups. These findings provide significant materials for studying the early evolution of Embioptera and understanding its morphology. One new genus (Ocrognethoda gen. nov.) and three new species of webspinners (Ocrognethoda olivea gen. et sp. nov., Gnethoda lata sp. nov. and Parasorellembia hamata sp. nov.) are described from the Upper Cretaceous of Myanmar amber. Ocrognethoda olivea gen. et sp. nov. and Gnethoda lata sp. nov. are attributed to the family Clothodidae due to their simplified and symmetrical male terminalia, in which the tenth tergum is undivided. Parasorellembia hamata sp. nov. is classified in the family Scelembiidae by a specialized abdominal apex: fused cerci, a broad right hemitergite of the tenth abdominal tergite, and ocelli presence. Moreover, based on the discovery of new genus and species, the male terminalia of Clothodidae and Sorellembiinae are briefly discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Terminalia bellerica is well-known for producing edible fruits with pharmacotherapeutic properties. Traditional healers use these species to treat and control diabetes mellitus, its side effects, and other illnesses. Involved in this disease's pathophysiological process, extensive research has been conducted to validate and comprehend these bioactive claims scientifically. This research aims to ascertain the bioactive metabolite contents of different solvent polarities, including ethyl acetate, hexane, distilled water, and methanol. The phenol concentration was determined using the Follin-Ciocalteu procedure to be between 23.45 and 160.41 mg GAE/g. The aluminum chloride colorimetric technique measured flavonoid concentration from 88.52 to 7.12 mg QE/g. The quantitative values of tannic acid, which spanned from 0.78 to 5.32 mg TAE/g, were determined by spectrophotometry UV-VIS. The extracts' capacity to reduce free radical damage ABTS (2, 2' azinobis (3-ethylbenzene-thiazoline-6-sulfonicacid) and DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) was examined. The extract ethyl acetate exhibited the most significant level of antioxidant activity, with IC50 values for DPPH and ABTS of 28.17 and 22.22 g/ml, respectively. Staphylococcus aureus (23 mm) and were tested for antibacterial and antifungal activity in a methanol extract (21 mm). In vitro, antidiabetic activities were assessed using α-glucoside and α-amylase inhibition. The ethyl acetate extract has α-glucoside inhibition IC50 of 23.04 g/ml and α-amylase inhibition IC50 of 25.35 g/ml. T. bellerica seed includes secondary metabolites that show promise as lead chemicals in creating potent medications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Terminalia bellirica has been extensively investigated and used since time immemorial as part of Ayurvedic practice entirely because of its curable properties. Their antioxidant, hepatoprotective, antibacterial, and immune-modulatory activities are mostly attributed to the presence of glucoside, gallic acid, and its esters, chebulinic acid, etc. Aims and Objectives: The aim of the study is to analyze the effects of sub-acute administration of T. bellirica fruit pulp aqueous extract (TBFPAE) in ameliorating pain in mouse models of the Swiss albino strain. Materials and Methods: Young mice of Swiss albino strain typically 3 months' of age; Male gender and weighing approximately 20-30 g were used for the purpose of the study. The mice were investigated by grouping them into five sets of six each randomly as control, standard, and trial groups. Group I was allotted as vehicle and given 1% gum acacia (10 mL/kg) as control; Group II was given pentazocine (5 mg/kg) as standard for central anti-nociceptive activity, while the IIIrd, IVth, and Vth groups received the investigative product TBFPAE per oral in doses of 9, 18 and 36 mg/kg, respectively. Eddy's hot plate technique was employed for assessing central anodyne activity. Results: All the test groups of TBFPAE were found to have an analgesic effect but doses 18 mg/kg and 36 mg/kg demonstrated greater effects, especially at 30 and 60 min. Maximum analgesic effect with TBFPAE was seen with 36 mg/kg dose at 60 min. Conclusion: Therefore, T. bellirica has some analgesic potential. However, further studies are required to confirm its dose and usage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study sought to use tropical almond leaves (TALs) for the simple fabrication of iron-containing activated carbon (IAC). Iron precursor (FeCl3) and activating agent (KOH) were sequentially preloaded in TALs. One-pot pyrolysis then generated iron-based particles (8.7 wt%), mainly metallic iron crystals, within AC support. The specific saturation magnetization of IAC was measured to be 48.9 emu/g, highlighting its ability to be efficiently separated using external magnetic fields. Moreover, the activation process yielded IAC with a large total volume of 0.28 cm³/g and a high specific surface area of 463 m²/g. Accordingly, IAC was investigated as an oxidation catalyst to degrade methylene blue (MB) by H2O2. At pH 3.0, 800 ppm H2O2, and 0.10 g/L IAC, 95.3% of MB (200 ppm) was removed after 30 min of adsorption and 60 min of oxidation. Altogether, iron-containing activated carbon from fallen leaves of tropical almonds proved its potential for robust methylene blue degradation by H2O2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Eleven Terminalia species growing in streets and gardens in Cairo (Egypt) were investigated for their pollen morphology. The study's objectives were to explore the variation among Terminalia species' pollen pheno-characters and to categorize the various species within this genus according to these pollen characteristics. The results showed that there are significant variations in the pollen morphological characteristics in the genus under study, and as a result, these traits can be regarded as eurypalynous. Each of the two main categories of Terminalia species mono-morphic and di-morphic includes various pollen morphologies, ranging from spheroidal to prolate with hexa-aperture that may be similar or of two types. For each of the eleven species, an identification key and a clustering phenogram for the fifteen major pollen features have been created. The aperture type, aperture similarity, and exine ornamentation are some of the crucial traits for the differentiation of the species examined while the pollen shape class has a poor diagnostic character. According to the unique characteristics of the pollen morphology of the Terminalia species, three groups and two subgroups were identified. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Withania somnifera (Ashwagandha) exhibits anti-viral, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties and is active against cancer. • Headaches, liver disorders, and gastrointestinal issues can all be effectively treated using Terminalia bellirica (Behra). • Bellirica and W. somnifera have grown overused, posing a concern, and adulteration may prevent their usage in industry. • The phytochemical analysis and HPTLC profiles of W. somnifera and bellirica extracts imply that accidental or purposeful additions might not have the desired therapeutic impact. • The results of this study clearly indicate that HPTLC profiling should be used for appropriate authentication of raw drug market samples containing herbal medications. In the realm of traditional medicine, (Withania somnifera), commonly known as Ashwagandha, has long been revered for its multifaceted benefits, earning it the moniker "Indian Ginseng" or winter cherry within Unani systems. Its reputation precedes it, boasting a spectrum of advantageous properties such as antiviral, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory effects. Moreover, research suggests its potential efficacy against various cancers including breast, colon, prostate, ovarian, and lung cancer. Similarly, Terminalia bellirica , referred to as Behra, holds its own array of therapeutic potential, addressing maladies ranging from headaches to liver disorders, gastrointestinal discomforts, common colds, and constipation. However, the widespread popularity of these medicinal plants has led to concerns regarding their sustainability. Overexploitation poses a significant risk, potentially depleting these valuable resources. Compounded with this risk is the issue of adulteration or contamination, where other plant parts or species resembling the authentic herbs are utilized, compromising the safety and efficacy of the end the product. In a recent investigation, two samples each of authentic and commercial Withania somnifera and Terminalia bellirica were subjected to rigorous assessment through physiochemical, phytochemical, TLC, and HPLC chromatographic methods. Alarming findings surfaced, revealing instances of adulteration or contamination in both the Ashwagandha and Behra products. Phytochemical analyses and HPTLC profiles of various extracts unveiled the intentional or unintentional addition of undesired herbs or substitutions. These adulterants not only jeopardize the expected therapeutic outcomes but also dilute the potency and safety of the herbal medicines flooding the local markets. This study serves as a clarion call for stringent authentication measures in the procurement and utilization of herbal medicines. High-Performance Thin-Layer Chromatography (HPTLC) emerges as a reliable tool for confirming adulteration, urging stakeholders to adopt thorough authentication protocols to safeguard public health and preserve the integrity of traditional herbal remedies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lepidodexia Brauer and Bergenstamm is one of the most speciose genera of flesh flies found in the Western Hemisphere. With approximately 200 species and 33 subgenera, Lepidodexia generic level diagnosis primarily relies on male terminalia features. However, the monophyly of Lepidodexia has been questioned, and for some taxa, the male terminalia are poorly known, leading to uncertainty about the genus delimitation and internal relationships. To address these issues, we performed the first comprehensive phylogeny of Lepidodexia , covering 85 % of its subgenera. Our results enabled us to establish a clear diagnosis for Lepidodexia and to identify 14 groups of subgenera based on key morphological features. The taxonomic status of the subgenera Archimimus , Halliosca , Xylocamptops and the species Lepidodexia angustifrons is addressed. Furthermore, our study provides a foundation for future taxonomic and evolutionary research on this diverse and ecologically important genus of flesh flies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Shrimp is a popular commodity due to its fast growth and high economic value. However, stress-related disease outbreaks caused by intensifying agricultural practices and environmental factors have led to significant financial losses globally. Using chemical compounds to combat infectious pathogens has also led to antibiotic resistance and accumulation of residues in tissues and the environment, posing consumer risks. This study investigated the potential benefits of Terminalia catappa leaves (TCL) as a natural plant product-based dietary supplement for Litopenaeus vannamei postlarvae against Vibrio parahaemolyticus infection. Experimental diets with TCL extract were prepared and the feeding trial was carried out for 28 days with L. vannamei postlarvae (PL10). The growth parameters and digestive enzymes were measured. Vibrio challenge test was conducted for 48 h. Oxidative stress, immunomodulation and histopathology of hepatopancreases were analysed after vibrio challenge in PL given with/without TCL diet. The study revealed that TCL diet has an increased body weight and survival rate of the shrimp than basal diet via increasing digestive enzyme activity. TCL diet also increases the survival of shrimp against the vibrio challenge. It increases antioxidant enzymes and eliminates oxidative stress. TCL acts as an immunostimulant by increasing prophenoloxidase, crustin, lysozyme and penaeid 3a genes. Moreover, the cellular damage caused by oxidative stress to hepatopancreases of the shrimp was reduced. The findings in this study suggest that the TCL diet has a dual property of growth promoter and immunostimulant and can be a sustainable and cost-effective alternative to traditional aquaculture practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alzheimer's disease (AD) and diabetes are non-communicable diseases with global impacts. Inhibitors of acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and butyrylcholinesterase (BChE) are suitable therapies for AD, while α-amylase and α-glucosidase inhibitors are employed as antidiabetic agents. Compounds were isolated from the medicinal plant Terminalia macroptera and evaluated for their AChE, BChE, α-amylase, and α-glucosidase inhibitions. From 1H and 13C NMR data, the compounds were identified as 3,3′-di-O-methyl ellagic acid (1), 3,3′,4′-tri-O-methyl ellagic acid-4-O-β-D-xylopyranoside (2), 3,3′,4′-tri-O-methyl ellagic acid-4-O-β-D-glucopyranoside (3), 3,3′-di-O-methyl ellagic acid-4-O-β-D-glucopyranoside (4), myricetin-3-O-rhamnoside (5), shikimic acid (6), arjungenin (7), terminolic acid (8), 24-deoxysericoside (9), arjunglucoside I (10), and chebuloside II (11). The derivatives of ellagic acid (1–4) showed moderate to good inhibition of cholinesterases, with the most potent being 3,3′-di-O-methyl ellagic acid, with IC50 values of 46.77 ± 0.90 µg/mL and 50.48 ± 1.10 µg/mL against AChE and BChE, respectively. The compounds exhibited potential inhibition of α-amylase and α-glucosidase, especially the phenolic compounds (1–5). Myricetin-3-O-rhamnoside had the highest α-amylase inhibition with an IC50 value of 65.17 ± 0.43 µg/mL compared to acarbose with an IC50 value of 32.25 ± 0.36 µg/mL. Two compounds, 3,3′-di-O-methyl ellagic acid (IC50 = 74.18 ± 0.29 µg/mL) and myricetin-3-O-rhamnoside (IC50 = 69.02 ± 0.65 µg/mL), were more active than the standard acarbose (IC50 = 87.70 ± 0.68 µg/mL) in the α-glucosidase assay. For α-glucosidase and α-amylase, the molecular docking results for 1–11 reveal that these compounds may fit well into the binding sites of the target enzymes, establishing stable complexes with negative binding energies in the range of −4.03 to −10.20 kcalmol−1. Though not all the compounds showed binding affinities with cholinesterases, some had negative binding energies, indicating that the inhibition was thermodynamically favorable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Within the family Calliphoridae, the genus Calliphora Robineau-Desvoidy, 1830, includes species of medical, veterinary and forensic relevance. This study reports for the first time the presence of Calliphora rohdendorfi (Grunin, 1966) in the Italian territory, namely in Calabrian Apennines (Southern Italy). The adults of the species were captured by bait bottle and yellow pan traps within a monitoring project of Diptera Brachycera involving Parco Nazionale dell'Aspromonte (Aspromonte National Park), Parco Nazionale della Sila (Sila National Park) and Parco Naturale Regionale delle Serre (Natural Regional Park of Serre), between 2018 and 2021. Calliphora rohdendorfi was identified on detailed morphological bases of both sexes. This was the first description of the general morphology of the female and its terminalia through digital photographs acquired by stereomicroscopy. The species was captured in pine and beech forests at an altitude between 1010 and 1820 m a.s.l. in shaded mountain areas. Prior to the finding in Southern Italy, this species showed an unusually disjointed distribution in Caucasus, Germany and Poland, thus the presence of C. rohdendorfi in Calabrian Apennines provides new and interesting data that require further investigation, because the species could play a role as flower visitor, pollinator and forensic indicator. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Based on their high antioxidant capacity and noteworthy phytochemistry, Terminalia ferdinandiana fruit and leaves have attracted considerable recent interest for their therapeutic potential. Whilst those studies have reported a variety of therapeutic properties for the fruit, the anti-inflammatory potential of T. ferdinandiana has been largely neglected and the leaves have been almost completely ignored. This study investigated the immune-modulatory and anti-inflammatory properties of T. ferdinandiana fruit and leaf extracts by evaluating their inhibition of multiple pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines secretion in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated and unstimulated RAW 264.7 macrophages using multiplex bead immunoassays and ELISA assays. The methanolic extracts were particularly good immune-modulators, significantly inhibiting the secretion of all the cytokines and chemokines tested. Indeed, the methanolic extracts completely inhibited IL-10, IFN-γ, IL-1β, IL-6, MCP-1, and MIP-2a secretion, and almost completely inhibited the secretion of TNF-α. In addition, the methanolic T. ferdinandiana extracts also significantly inhibited cytosolic COX-2 levels (by 87–95%) and the synthesis of the PGE2 (by ~ 98%). In contrast, the methanolic extracts stimulated LTB4 secretion by ~ 60–90%, whilst the aqueous extracts significantly inhibited LTB4 secretion (by ~ 27% each). Exposure of RAW 264.7 cells to the methanolic T. ferdinandiana extracts also significantly down-regulated the cytosolic levels of NF-κB by 33–44%, indicating that the immune-modulatory and anti-inflammatory properties of the extracts may be regulated via a decrease in NF-κB transcription pathways. Taken together, these results demonstrate potent anti-inflammatory properties for the extracts and provide insights into their anti-inflammatory mechanisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Terminalia pallida Brandis, a Combretaceae family plant, has garnered attention due to its traditional medicinal uses and rich phytochemical diversity. In this study, we conducted a comprehensive analysis of the fruit extracts of Terminalia pallida Brandis to unravel the intricate composition of its metabolites and explore their potential therapeutic applications. Preliminary phytochemical analysis of the n-Hexane and alcohol extracts revealed distinct compositions containing steroids, lipids, saponins, flavonoids, tannins, proteins, carbohydrates, and amino acids. Advanced techniques such as Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GCMS) and Liquid Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (LCMS) were employed to delve deeper into the composition of these extracts. The GCMS analysis of the n-Hexane extract identified 54 compounds, a complex mixture of hydrocarbons and fatty acids. Notably, (Z)-Docosenoic acid methyl ester, 9(E)-Octadecenoic acid methyl ester, Methyl linoleate, and Stigmast-5-en-3-ol oleate. Furthermore, LCMS analysis of the alcohol extract revealed the presence of compounds like Orientin, Arctiin, Quercetin, Arjunolic acid, and Stigmasterol, etc. Orientin, Quercetin, Purpurin, and Pteropodine exhibited higher concentrations, suggesting their potential significance. In-silico docking studies were conducted using the above ligands on protein targets 1M48 and 2AZ5. The different binding affinities and interactions revealed by the docking data revealed the possible modes of action of these drugs. The importance of Terminalia pallida Brandis fruit extracts as sources of several bioactive chemicals is highlighted by this study. Integrating advanced analytical techniques with in-silico approaches revealed the contribution of phenolic compounds such as Resveratrol and Arctiin in Immunomodulation. This will further guide us to the in vitro and in vivo models. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The global need for food security has sparked interest in the potential of our indigenous food systems, including indigenous fruits and other wild edible flora and fauna. However, majority of these indigenous food resources remain underutilised despite its potentially high nutritional and economic benefits. This is largely due to the inadequacy of technical and practical information regarding the availability, propagation, and overall utility of the species. In this regard, the present study investigated the early growth responses of three selected indigenous fruit tree species, namely, Kalumpit (Terminalia microcarpa), Libas (Spondias pinnata) and Tibig (Ficus nota) to fertilisation and mycorrhizal inoculation following a Completely Randomized Design with treatments being Control, 2.5-g complete fertiliser (14:14:14), MYKOVAM, and Fertilisation + MYKOVAM. After 24 weeks (6 months), it was found that the selected indigenous fruit tree species can grow equally well without fertiliser or mycorrhizal inoculation. However, when necessary, MYKOVAM can be a better option than complete fertiliser. Findings showed that S. pinnata and F. nota seedlings inoculated with MYKOVAM yielded higher height increments than the fertiliser group. MYKOVAM inoculated F.nota seedlings also yielded higher diameter growth and total biomass than those treated with fertiliser. No significant variation in root volume was recorded for all selected indigenous fruit tree species among all treatments. Early growth of T. microcarpa was not enhanced by any of the treatments. The study, therefore, revealed relevant information that could enhance the mass propagation of these species in support of food security. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Terminalia ferdinandiana Exell. fruit have been used by the First Australians as a nutritious food and as a medicine for thousands of years. The antibacterial properties of T. ferdinandiana fruit extracts are well reported. However, the therapeutic potential of plants growing in different locations and environmental conditions have not previously been compared. Aim: This study compares the antibacterial efficacy of fruit harvested from two distinct locations in Australia and correlates these activities with their physiochemical properties. Materials and Methods: The growth inhibitory activity of the T. ferdinandiana fruit extracts were evaluated using solid phase disc diffusion and liquid microdilution MIC assays. Artemia nauplii bioassays were used to screen and compare the extracts from both locations. Results: The T. ferdinandiana extracts prepared from fruits sourced from the two distinct regions of Australia inhibited the growth of the panel of bacteria screened, including a highly antibiotic MRSA strain. In general, the methanolic extracts were substantially better inhibitors of bacterial growth than the aqueous extracts, and extracts prepared using the Northern Territory (NT)-derived fruit were substantially more potent than the Western Australian (WA) fruit extracts. MICs substantially <1000 μg/mL were noted for the NT methanolic fruit extract against the reference S. aureus and MRSA bacterial strains respectively. The potency of this extract against the MRSA strain indicates that this extract may function via a distinct mechanism compared to the standard antibiotics tested. Interestingly, the greater antibacterial potency of the NT fruit extracts correlated to high ascorbic acid levels, indicating that the antibacterial mechanism may involve modulation of the redox state. All extracts were nontoxic in the Artemia nauplii toxicity assay, indicating their safety for therapeutic usage. Conclusion: The T. ferdinandiana fruit extracts prepared from both NT and WA each had noteworthy antibacterial activity, although greater activity was noted for the NT fruit extracts. This activity correlated with the antioxidant/ascorbic acid content of the extracts. All extracts were also nontoxic in the Artemia nauplii bioassay, although future studies using mammalian cell lines are required to confirm their safety for therapeutic use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Terminalia ferdinandiana Exell. is an endemic Australian plant with a high anti-oxidant capacity. Liquid solvent extractions of T. ferdinandiana leaves are strong inhibitors of the growth of numerous bacterial pathogens. Despite these promising therapeutic properties, methods for the rapid extraction of large quantities of T. ferdinandiana leaves are lacking. This study aimed to develop a rapid supercritical extraction method to produce extracts which retain therapeutic properties and phytochemistry characteristics. Materials and Methods: Terminalia ferdinandiana leaves were extracted by both solvent maceration extraction and Supercritical fluid extraction (SCE). The extracts were tested for the ability to inhibit bacterial growth using the disc diffusion assay. The antibacterial potency was further quantified using liquid dilution MIC assays. Toxicity was evaluated using an Artemia franciscana nauplii bioassay and GC-MS headspace analysis was used to evaluate phytochemical similarity between the extracts. Results: Terminalia ferdinandiana leaf SCE displayed strong bacterial growth inhibitory activity against bacterial triggers of autoimmune inflammatory diseases, with efficacies similar to the smaller laboratory scale methanolic liquid extractions. The growth inhibition of the ethyl acetate and methanolic solvent extracts and the SCE were particularly noteworthy against P. mirabilis (MICs = 128, 227 and 208μg/mL respectively) and A. baylyi (MICs = 452, 780 and 104 μg/mL respectively). GC-MS analysis of the berry SCE revealed similar terpenoid components and similar abundances to those in methanolic solvent leaf extraction. Furthermore, all liquid extracts and the SCE were non-toxic in the Artemia franciscana toxicity assay. Conclusion: The T. ferdinandiana SCE retained the tested therapeutic properties, was non-toxic and had similar phytochemical profiles as the smaller scale liquid solvent extractions. Thus, SCE is a viable method of rapidly extracting large masses of T. ferdinandiana leaves to produce quality extracts that retain therapeutic properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The drive to move away from fossil fuels and related products has drawn significant attention to biomass and biomass-related products in recent times. This study reports the effect of three forest biomass sources namely acacia auriculiformis, terminalia randii, and delonix regia as combustion fuels in a retort heated, lowtemperature and top-lit updraft gasifier on biochars produced from two agricultural wastes: corn husk and corn cob. The combustion fuels were characterized using Thermogravimetric/Differential thermogravimetric analysis. Their TGA data were fitted to 16 kinetic models using the Coats-Redfern method. Characterization of the products was performed using Scanning Electron Microscopy/Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy and Fourier Transform Infra-Red Spectroscopy. Results revealed similar decomposition trends for combustion fuels. Different kinetic models predicted decomposition mechanisms of combustion fuels for the regions considered. Negative correlation was found between biochar yields and increasing carbonization temperatures with yields ranging from 64.6-37.8 % and 28.4-24.5% for corn husk and cob, respectively. Results indicate similar effects of combustion fuels on functional groups contained in biochar samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Terminalia argentea Mart. (Combretaceae), native to Brazil, is used in habitat restoration programs. Arthropods are bioindicators because their populations reflect changes in the environment. We evaluated the recovery of a degraded area by using ecological indices and analyzing arthropod interactions on T. argentea plants. The richness and diversity of sap-sucking Hemiptera and the abundance of tending ants and Sternorrhyncha predators increased with the number of T. argentea leaves. The correlation of the abundance of tending ants and Sternorrhyncha predators was positive with that of the sap-sucking Hemiptera, and the abundance of Sternorrhyncha predators was negative with that of tending ants and sap-sucking Hemiptera. The positive correlation between the abundance, richness, and diversity of insect groups and numbers of T. argentea leaves is an example of the bottom-up regulation mechanism, with the population dynamics of the lower trophic levels dictating those of higher trophic levels. The contribution of T. argentea, a host plant of many arthropods, to the recovery of ecological relationships between organisms in degraded ecosystems is important. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Terminalia canescens DC. Radlk. (family: Combretaceae) is native to northern Australia. Species of the genus Terminalia are widely used as traditional medicines to treat diverse ailments, including bacterial infections. However, we were unable to find any studies that had examined the antimicrobial activity of T. canescens. In this study, T. canescens was screened against a panel of bacterial pathogens, including multi-antibiotic-resistant strains. Solvents with different polarities were used to extract different complements of phytochemicals from T. canescens leaves. Methanolic and aqueous extracts exhibited substantial antimicrobial activity against various pathogens, including those that are multidrug-resistant strains. When combined with some selected clinical antibiotics, some extracts potentiated the antibacterial inhibitory activity. This study identified two synergistic, eleven additive, eleven non-interactive and eight antagonistic interactions. The toxicities of the plant extracts were examined in the Artemia franciscana nauplii assay and were found to be non-toxic, except the aqueous extract, which showed toxicity. Metabolomic liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC-MS) analyses highlighted and identified several flavonoids, including vitexin, quercetin, orientin and kaempferol, as well as the tannins ellagic acid and pyrogallol, which may contribute to the antibacterial activities observed herein. The possible mechanism of action of these extracts was further explored in this study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bioprospecting native Australian plants offers the potential discovery of latent and novel bioactive compounds. The promising cytotoxic and antibacterial activity of methanolic extracts of Pittosporum angustifolium and Terminalia ferdinandiana led to further fractionation and isolation using our laboratory's bioassay-guided fractionation protocol. Hence, the aim of this study was to further evaluate the bioactivity of the fractions and subfractions and characterize bioactive compounds using liquid chromatography mass spectroscopy (LC-MS/MS) and gas chromatography MS (GC-MS). Compounds tentatively identified in P. angustifolium Fraction 1 using LC-ESI-QTOF-MS/MS were chlorogenic acid and/or neochlorogenic acid, bergapten, berberine, 8′-epitanegool and rosmarinic acid. GC-MS analysis data showed the presence of around 100 compounds, mainly comprising carboxylic acids, sugars, sugar alcohols, amino acids and monoalkylglycerols. Furthermore, the fractions obtained from T. ferdinandiana flesh extracts showed no cytotoxicity, except against HT29 cell lines, and only Fraction 2 exhibited some antibacterial activity. The reduced bioactivity observed in the T. ferdinandiana fractions could be attributed to the potential loss of synergy as compounds become separated within the fractions. As a result, the further fractionation and separation of compounds in these samples was not pursued. However, additional dose-dependent studies are warranted to validate the bioactivity of T. ferdinandiana flesh fractions, particularly since this is an understudied species. Moreover, LC-MS/GC-MS studies confirm the presence of bioactive compounds in P. angustifolium Fraction 1/subfractions, which helps to explain the significant acute anticancer activity of this plant. The screening process designed in this study has the potential to pave the way for developing scientifically validated phytochemical/bioactivity information on ethnomedicinal plants, thereby facilitating further bioprospecting efforts and supporting the discovery of novel drugs in modern medicine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

How complex morphologies evolve is one of the central questions in evolutionary biology. Observing the morphogenetic events that occur during development provides a unique perspective on the origins and diversification of morphological novelty. One can trace the tissue of origin, emergence, and even regression of structures to resolve murky homology relationships between species. Here, we trace the developmental events that shape some of the most diverse organs in the animal kingdom--the male terminalia (genitalia and analia) of Drosophilids. Male genitalia are known for their rapid evolution with closely related species of the Drosophila genus demonstrating vast variation in their reproductive morphology. We used confocal microscopy to monitor terminalia development during metamorphosis in twelve related species of Drosophila. From this comprehensive dataset, we propose a new staging scheme for pupal terminalia development based on shared developmental landmarks, which allows one to align developmental time points between species. We were able to trace the origin of different substructures, find new morphologies and suggest possible homology of certain substructures. Additionally, we demonstrate that posterior lobe is likely originated prior to the split between the Drosophila melanogaster and the Drosophila yakuba clade. Our dataset opens up many new directions of research and provides an entry point for future studies of the Drosophila male terminalia evolution and development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The rare bee genus Habrophorula Lieftinck, 1974 is recorded for the first time from Vietnam. The genus is represented by a new species, Habrophorula belladeceptrix Tran, Engel & Nguyen, sp. nov., from Cao Bang Province and can be most easily confused with H. nigripes Wu from China. The species is most easily differentiated by the unique form of the male terminalia but can also be distinguished by differences in integumental and setal coloration. A revised key is provided to the species of the genus. Females of the new species were collected at flowers of Saurauia roxburghii Wall. and Saurauia napaulensis DC. (Actinidiaceae); males were collected at flowers of Lantana camara L. (Verbenaceae). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Incidence of alcohol consumption has significantly increased in last few decades. Alcoholism is associated with serious medical and economic consequences. Behavioral disorders like mood swings, inappropriate behaviour, poor judgment and concentration, slurred speech, memory loss, and lack of coordination are common in alcoholics. Apart from psychotherapy, the allopathic armamentarium against alcohol induced behavioural alterations is too limited. The rich heritage of Ayurveda in India is looked upon as a new hope for treating behavioural alterations in alcoholics Aim: To investigate the protective effects of ethanolic extract of Terminalia paniculata bark on ethanol-induced behavioral alterations. Material and methods: Behavioural aspects such as anxious behaviour, exploratory behavior, and locomotor activity by using a photoactometer (PAM), Elevated Plus Maze (EPM), Rotarod, and Open Field Activity (OFA) were performed in male albino Wistar rats treated with ethanol (E), ethanol and Terminalia paniculata (E-TP), ethanol and silymarin (E-SM). Additionally, Rats treated with normal saline were included as controls. Results: In the case of animal administered Terminalia paniculata in dose of 100mg/kg, locomotor activity increased significantly compared with animals receiving only ethanol. Terminalia paniculata and Silymarin have shown an increase in activity compared to depressed rats. In comparison with ethanol and other groups, time spent in open arm were significantly decreased with both doses of Terminalia paniculata (100mg/kg, 200mg/kg) and Silymarin. In case of entry of rats in close arm, after 4 weeks, time spent in close arm was significantly increased in control rats compared to all other groups. Conclusion: Behavioral affects in alcoholics is linked with serious personal and family problems. Since apart from psychotherapy, the allopathic armamentarium against alcohol induced behavioural alterations is too limited, alternative/conventional medical streams are gaining importance in recent years. Based on the results of the present study, Terminalia paniculata alone or in combination with other drugs can be looked upon as a future alternative prophylactic and therapeutic ayurvedic formulation for treating behavioral alteration in alcoholics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Terminalia ferdinandiana Exell, Terminalia grandiflora Benth., Terminalia microcarpa Decne., and Terminalia muelleri Benth. (family: Combretaceae) belong to the genus Terminalia. Plants of this genus have been extensively used as traditional medicines to treat a variety of illnesses, including pathogen infections. However, we were unable to find any studies that have investigated the antibacterial activity of T. microcarpa. Similarly, whilst some preliminary studies have examined the antimicrobial properties of T. muelleri and T. grandiflora, they did not test the extracts against antibiotic-resistant pathogens. This study screens the antimicrobial activity of T. grandiflora, T. microcarpa, and T. muelleri and compares it to that of T. ferdinandiana extracts prepared from both the fruit and leaves against a range of pathogens, including multi-antibiotic-resistant strains. Solvents with varying polarities were used to extract different phytochemical constituents from the leaves of T. grandiflora, T. microcarpa, and T. muelleri and from the fruit and leaves of T. ferdinandiana. The aqueous and methanolic extracts each displayed significant antimicrobial activity when tested against the bacterial pathogens, including against the multidrug-resistant strains. When these extracts were tested in combination with selected antibiotics, some extracts potentiated the antimicrobial activity. This study identifies twelve synergistic, fifty-eight additive, and sixty non-interactive combinations, as well as thirty antagonistic effects. The extracts were evaluated for toxicity using the Artemia franciscana nauplii lethality assay (ALA) and were each classified as non-toxic, with the exception of the methanolic and aqueous T. ferdinandiana fruit extracts and the aqueous and ethyl acetate T. ferdinandiana leaf extracts. Metabolomic analysis using liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC-MS) highlighted several flavonoids and tannins that may contribute to the antimicrobial activities reported herein. The potential antibacterial mechanism(s) of the T. ferdinandiana extracts are discussed in this study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT Paramycodrosophila Duda, 1924 is a small cosmopolitan genus which encompasses 16 described species. In the Neotropical region there are records of only two species, P. costaricana Duda, 1925 and P. nephelea Wheeler, 1968. In this paper, we describe the first 19 new species from South America – P. itatiaiensis n. sp., P. blauthae n. sp., P. rafaeli n. sp., P. boldrinii n. sp., P. roraimensis n. sp., P. amazonensis n. sp., P. moratoi n. sp., P. mineira n. sp., P. leonensis n. sp., P. marinhoi n. sp., P. viscondedemauaensis n. sp., P. pedraseladensis n. sp., P. vicenziae n. sp., P. pallidifacies n. sp., P. acreensis n. sp., P. mantiqueira n. sp., P. maculosa n. sp., P. melana n. sp., P. puri n. sp. – based on morphological traits. A distribution map and a taxonomic key for male imagoes of the Neotropical species was also produced. By adding 19 new species, we establish the Neotropical region as the biogeographical region with the most known diversity in the world for the genus.

In this study, an extensive exploration survey of wild progeny was conducted which yielded 18 candidate plus trees (CPTs) of Terminalia bellerica. Seeds of these CPTs were collected from diverse locations between 10°54′ and 28°07′ E longitude, and 76°27′ and 95°32′ N latitude, covering 18 different locations across 5 states of the Indian subcontinent. The objective of the progeny trial was to assess genetic associations and variability in growth and physio-chemical characteristics. Significant variations (p < 0.05) were observed among the growth traits, encompassing plant height, basal diameter, girth at breast height and volume, as well as physio-chemical characteristics such as leaf length, width, area and chlorophyll content, carotenoids, and protein in the progeny trial. Broad-sense heritability (h2b) estimates were consistently high, exceeding 80% for all growth and physiological related traits under investigation except for plant height, leaf length, and girth at breast height. A correlation study revealed that selecting based on plant height, leaf area, and girth at breast height effectively enhances T. bellerica volume. A moderate genetic advance in percent of the mean (GAM) was observed for most traits, except leaf length, leaf width, girth at breast height, and plant height. Across all 13 traits, phenotypic coefficient of variation (PCV) surpassed genotypic coefficient of variation (GCV). Utilizing principal component analysis (PCA) and dendrogram construction categorized the genotypes into seven distinct groups. In conclusion, the study has demonstrated that targeting girth at breast height and plant height would be a highly effective strategy for the establishment of elite seedling nurseries and clonal seed nurseries for varietal and hybridization programs in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two planthopper species of the family Nogodinidae are added to the fauna of Vietnam, both from two localities in Thua Thien-Hue Province: Bach Ma National Park and Phong Dien District. The first species belongs to Goniopsarites Meng, Wang & Wang, 2014, G. mientrunganus Constant & Pham, sp. nov., and the second belongs to Pisacha Distant, 1906, P. yinggensis Meng, Wang & Wang, 2014. Pisacha yinggensis was previously recorded from Hainan Island, China. These new records greatly extend the distribution of both genera, which were known from southern China, Hainan and North Vietnam, to the south, reaching the mid area of Central Vietnam. Sexual dimorphism is reported in P. yinggensis for the first time. Illustrations of habitus and male terminalia of the new species are given as well as distribution maps and photographs of live specimens and their habitat. The family Nogodinidae now comprises nine species in Vietnam, with three of them present in Bach Ma National Park. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current research was aimed to evaluate the antidiabetic activity of Terminalia citrina methanolic extract (TCME) by streptozotocin-induced diabetes in male Wistar rats. TCME exhibited better in-vitro antioxidant and alpha-amylase inhibitory activity as compared to other tested extracts. TCME at 250, 500, and 750 mg/kg showed notable (p <.05) antidiabetic potential by lowering fasting blood glucose level, restoring lipid level, serum amylase, HbA1c, kidney, and liver function tests as coevidenced from histological findings of the liver, pancreas, and kidney. TCME remarkably reinstated the antioxidant enzymatic activities (CAT: 0.181 ± 0.011 IU/mg protein, SOD: 21.45 ± 1.53 IU/mg protein) and reduced lipid peroxidation level (40.60 ± 2.41 µM/mg protein) in the liver and kidney tissue of diabetic rats at 750 mg/kg dose. The acute and subacute oral toxicity study of TCME exhibited no clinical toxicity signs and mortality. Its GC-MS spectrum unveiled the existence of 10-octadecenoic acid and other compounds which might have contributed to antidiabetic potential. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tropical almond (Terminalia catappa Linn.) is highly distributed within the tropics, but appears rather underutilized in developing countries like Nigeria. Specifically, relevant information regards the nutritional, health benefits, and pharmaceutical potential of roasted T. catappa nuts remains scanty. Comparing both raw and roasted T. catappa nuts should provide additional information especially from product development and potential commercial prospect standpoints. The changes in nutritional, health benefits, and pharmaceutical potentials of raw and roasted T. catappa nuts were, therefore, investigated. Whereas the raw T. catappa nuts obtained significantly (p < 0.05) higher protein, ash, moisture, crude fiber, as well as vitamins C, and B1-3 compared to the roasted ones, some contents like carbohydrates, energy, vitamin A, calcium, manganese, zinc, hydrogen cyanide, as well as oxalate would noticeably change (p < 0.05) after the roasting process. Twenty phytochemicals were identified in both raw and roasted samples with the concentrations of quinine, ribalinidine, sapogenin, flavan-3-ol and tannin significantly reduced, while catechin seemed enhanced upon roasting. Promising drug-likeness, pharmacokinetic properties, and safety profiles could be predicted among the phytochemicals. Overall, roasting T. catappa nuts should enhance the nutritional contents, which could aid both absorption and palatability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study was aimed to evaluate the phytochemical constituents, in vitro antibacterial and rate of kill assay of Terminalia avicennioides leaf extract against some bacteria associated with diarrhoea. The phytochemical constituents of the ethanol of Terminalia avicennioides leaf, aqueous, n-butanol, and ethyl acetate fractions of the leaf extract were determined using standard analytical methods. The antibacterial activities of the leaf extract and extract fractions against clinical isolates of Salmonella Typhimurium and Escherichia coli isolated from diarrhoeaic patients were determined in vitro by agar diffusion, dilution and time - kill methods. The result of phytochemical screening revealed the presence of carbohydrates, cardiac glycosides, saponins, flavonoides, tannins, alkaloids, phenols and triterpenes. The crude extract and extract fractions of T. avicennioides leaf were effective against the test bacterial isolates at varied concentration of extracts but the n-butanol fraction was more effective with Minimum inhibitory and Minimum Bactericidal Concentration of 6.25 and 12.5mg/ml. The clinical isolates of E. coli and S. Typhimurium were completely killed within 180 minutes of exposure to ethanol leaf extract and extract fractions at varied MBCs of 12.5 mg/ml and 25.0 mg/ml. The clinical isolates of E. coli and S. Typhimurium were more susceptible to n-butanol fraction within 120 minutes of exposure to the extract fraction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Caenorhabditis elegance and Heligmosomoides polygyrus are great model of parasitic nematodes for the identification of anthelminthic drugs. • By tracking the larvae's movement, the worm microtracker was used to assess the anthelminthic activity in a 96-well microplate. • The calculations of the interaction of the ligands of Terminalia macroptera and Bridelia micrantha with the tubulin alpha-1B protein receptor indicate that the ligands rich in hydroxyl groups interact better with the amino acids of protein. • The aqueous and ethanolic extracts of Terminalia macroptera and Bridelia micrantha have potent anthelmintic activity against the 4 life stage cycle stages of H. polygyrus and on the L4 stage of C. elegance. In tropical and subtropical African nations, helminthiases are widespread and devastating to school-aged children. This study was undertaken in order to objectively support the ethnobotanical use of the stem bark of Terminalia macroptera and the leaves of Bridelia micrantha as anthelminthic agent, using Heligmosomoides polygyrus and Caenorhabditis elegans. The flotation technique was used to obtain fresh eggs of H. polygyrus from the feces of experimentally infected mice and culture to different stages of the larvae. Caenorhabditis elegans L4 larvae were obtained after bleaching adult worms to create a synchronized medium and then was cultured until the L4 larval stage. By tracking the larvae's movement, the worm micro tracker was used to assess the anthelminthic activity in a 96-well microplate. The extract was tested at various concentrations and distilled water served as the negative control, and albendazole as the positive control. The percentage of larvae motility inhibition was calculated. The Glide module of the Schrodinger Maestro software was used to conduct the docking studies. The software's score function was used to rank and classify several potentials adduct patterns produced by molecular docking. For the ethanol and aqueous extracts of T. macroptera, the IC 50 of the ovicidal activity was 0.013 and 0.042 mg/ml, respectively, whereas for the ethanol and aqueous extracts of B. micrantha , it was 0.38 and 0.63 mg/ml. This demonstrates that ethanol extracts are more effective than water extracts in preventing hatching inside the host. T. macroptera larvicidal activity against L1, L2, and L3 larvae resulted in IC 50 values of 0.47, 0.29, and 0.004 mg/ml for the ethanol extract, respectively, while B. micrantha's had IC 50 values of 0.154, 1.4, and 0.047 mg/ml. Caenorhabditis elegans was very sensitive with IC 50 values of, 4.733, and 2.8 µg̸ mL, respectively, for the ethanol and aqueous extract. In B. micrantha , Isoquercetin has the most interaction with amino acids, Asparagine, Phenylalanine, Glycine, Glutamic acid, and Tyrosine, because of its abundant hydroxyl functional group as well as carbonyl group and benzene ring, which makes it have a better inhibitory effect on the receptor protein while that of T. macroptera was Orientin. These findings imply that B. micrantha and T. macroptera may be effective as an anthelminthic agent. However, additional in vivo research is required to verify this biological activity. In addition, the hydroxyl groups as well as the flavonoid backbone of these compounds are the reason for the good effect of these proteins on the receptor protein, and the in silico studies of these compounds on the receptor protein and its interactions with amino acids confirm this claim. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Euepalpus Townsend, 1908 is a small Neotropical genus of bristle flies (Diptera: Tachinidae: Tachinini), which includes two valid species whose taxonomy is unclear, mainly because males and females are sexually dimorphic. Males exhibit a pair of sexual patches on the dorsal surface of abdominal tergite 5, an unusual feature in Tachinidae. Here, the genus is revised, including a key to species and detailed descriptions and illustrations of the type material and males and females of each species. The male and female terminalia of Euepalpus species are described for the first time. Finally, I discuss the occurrence and distribution of sexual patches in Tachinini. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The genus Terminalia contains some of the most widely used plants in traditional medicine. Many species possess antifungal, antibacterial, antiviral, antiprotozoal, analgesic, antidiarrheal, antioxidant, antimalarial, anticancer, and anti-inflammatory properties. Some species also have cardiovascular and wound-healing effects. Despite their myriad of traditional uses, relatively few studies have examined the medicinal properties and phytochemistry of most Australian Terminalia spp. The high tannin content of Terminalia spp. has been postulated to be a major contributor to the medicinal properties of this important genus. However, the complexities of tannins are generally believed to make them a poor choice for drug design. Therefore, much of the interest in Terminalia species has been for their nutraceutical and pharmacognostic value, and they remain under-explored in terms of drug discovery. Recent studies have identified many other important phytochemicals within Terminalia species apart from the tannins and have established that these compounds may contribute to their therapeutic bioactivities. Several Australian Terminalia species (particularly Terminalia carpentariae C.T. White, Terminalia catappa L., Terminalia ferdinandiana Exell and Terminalia grandiflora Benth) have received the most attention due to their reported high antioxidant contents. In contrast, other Australian Terminalia spp. have been relatively ignored. This review discusses recent studies into the phytochemistry, medicinal properties and the underlying therapeutic mechanisms of Australian Terminalia species to help direct future areas of research into this important genus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Doxorubicin (DOX) is chemotherapy for breast and cervical cancer with serious side effects. Ketapang (Terminalia catappa) is a potential plant as a cochemotherapy agent. The purpose of this research was to examine the sensitivity of DOX as a cytotoxicity drug in combination with ethanolic extracts of ketapang leaves (EKL) against T47D and HeLa cancer cells. Cytotoxicity was determined using the MTT assay, with DOX concentration series (0.625-40 nM for T47D and 0.5-6 M for HeLa) and EKL (50-1000 g/mL) used in combination with the study. DOX and EKL combination assays utilizing their respective IC50 values were performed in T47D cells and HeLa cells, and the results were used to calculate the Combination Index (CI). Furthermore, the doubling time method was used to investigate the combination of DOX and EKL proliferation inhibition on both cell lines. DOX and EKL had IC50 values of 158 nM and 30 g/mL for T47D, respectively, and 3.4 M and 640 g/mL for HeLa cell growth. While DOX and EKL have a synergistic effect on T47D cells, their combined effect on HeLa cells is cytotoxic and dose-dependent. EKL increases the inhibitory effect of DOX on the proliferation of T47D and HeLa cancer cells. In T47D cells, the combination of DOX and EKL has a higher potential for cytotoxic and antiproliferative activity than in HeLa cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to evaluate the antioxidant and antiaging effects of Indian almond (Terminalia catappa Linn.) leaf extract (TCE) on high-glucose (GLU)-induced obese Caenorhabditis elegans. Since TCE contains high contents of flavonoids and phenolics, strong radical scavenging activity was confirmed in vitro. The stress-resistance effect of TCE was confirmed under thermal and oxidative stress conditions at nontoxic tested concentrations (6.25, 12.5, and 25 μg/mL). GLU at 2% caused lipid and reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation in C. elegans, and TCE inhibited lipid and ROS accumulation under both normal and 2% GLU conditions in a concentration-dependent manner. In addition, TCE proved to be effective in prolonging the lifespan of C. elegans under normal and 2% GLU conditions. The ROS reduction effect of TCE was abolished in mutants deficient in daf-16/FOXO and skn-1/Nrf-2. In addition, the lifespan-extending effect of TCE in these two mutants disappeared. The lifespan-extending effect was abolished even in atgl-1/ATGL-deficiency mutants. The TCE effect was reduced in aak-1/AMPK-deficient mutants and completely abolished under 2% GLU conditions. Therefore, the effect of prolonging lifespan by inhibiting lipid and ROS accumulation under the high GLU conditions of TCE is considered to be the result of atgl-1, daf-16, and skn-1 being downregulated by aak-1. These results suggest that the physiological potential of TCE contributes to antiaging under metabolic disorders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The genus Teucholabis has 310 valid species grouped in four subgenera. In Mexico, Teucholabis (Paratropesa) is represented only by one species described with material from Xalapa and Orizaba, Veracruz State, Mexico. The male terminalia of Teucholabis (Paratropesa) praeusta (Osten Sacken 1886) (Diptera: Limoniidae) and additional body characters of a male collected from Teocelo, Veracruz are described. The species is poorly known and reported only from the State of Veracruz. An identification key for adults and revision of characteristics of the subgenus Paratropesa are included. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: A new genus of hilarine dance fly, i.e., Tropicohilara, is described with six new included species. The new genus is recorded from the Amazon and Atlantic Forest biomes. The morphology and distribution of the genus are discussed. The genus Tropicohilara gen. nov. (Diptera: Empididae: Empidinae: Hilarini) is described and includes the following six new species from Brazil: Tropicohilara amazonensis sp. nov. (type species, Brazil: Amazonas, Manaus); T. bahiensis sp. nov. (Brazil: Bahia, Camacan); T. bella sp. nov. (Brazil: Pernambuco, Jaqueira); T. mineira sp. nov. (Brazil: Minas Gerais, Itamonte); T. paranaensis sp. nov. (Brazil: Paraná, Piraquara); and T. sinclairi sp. nov. (Brazil: Paraná, Morretes). The genus is presently recorded from the Amazonian and Atlantic Forest biomes. It differs from other hilarine genera by the following combination of characteristics: predominantly yellowish specimens; occiput somewhat conical in dorsal view; postpedicel elongate, male first fore tarsomere unmodified; hind tibia slightly shorter than hind femur; wing vein R2+3 with setae on ventral surface; male tergite 7 with a sclerotized band at posterior margin, tergite 8 reduced and upwardly directed so that terminalia can be flexed forward. A key to the species is provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pronomopsis rubripes Hermann, and Pronomopsis talabrensis Artigas are reported for the first time from Argentina (Salta and Jujuy) and the male terminalia of P. chalybea Hermann and P. talabrensis are described and illustrated for the first time. An updated distribution map and a key of the species of Pronomopsis Hermann are also provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The prionid genus Calocomus Audinet-Serville, 1832 is a South American group that is currently composed of five species. Of the known species, only C. kreuchelyi Buquet, 1840 is known by females. Herein, the unknown male of Calocomus kreuchelyi Buquet, 1840 is described, including its terminalia, and the species is newly recorded for the Casanare department. Additionally, a map of the geographical distribution of C. kreuchelyi and an updated key to the species of Calocomus are provided. The validity of the spelling “kreuchelyi” is discussed.

Terminalia petiolaris A. Cunn. Ex Benth. (genus: Terminalia, family: Combretaceae) is native to Australia. Terminalia spp. have traditionally been used to treat various ailments, including bacterial infections. Solvents of varying polarity were used to extract compounds from leaves of this species, and the extracts were tested against a panel of bacteria, including antibiotic-resistant strains. The methanolic and water extracts showed substantial inhibitory activity against several bacteria, including antibiotic-resistant strains in both disc diffusion and liquid dilution assays. Combining these extracts with selected conventional antibiotics enhanced the inhibition of bacterial growth for some combinations, while others showed no significant interaction. In total, two synergistic, twenty-five additive, twenty-three non-interactive and one antagonistic interaction were observed. The methanolic and ethyl acetate plant extracts were found to be non-toxic in Artemia franciscana nauplii toxicity assays. A liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry metabolomics analysis identified several flavonoid compounds, including miquelianin, trifolin and orientin, which might contribute to the observed activities. The potential modes of these active extracts are further discussed in this study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Based on the characters of adult's external morphology and terminalia, a new species of the genus Sarcophaga (s. lat.) (Diptera: Sarcophagidae) is reported from India. Adults of Sarcophaga (Lioproctia) mailansissp. nov. were collected from Kathua, Jammu and Kashmir, North India. An adult female was captured from decomposing chicken meat that had been used as bait for flesh fly collection. The female larviposit on chicken liver and are reared in ideal conditions to produce adult specimens. The morphological descriptions and illustrations of male, female and immatures of Sarcophaga (Lioproctia) mailansissp. nov. are provided in this article, that aid in identification of this medically and forensically relevant flesh fly species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Chebulagic acid (CA), found in beleric (Terminalia bellirica) fruit powder, has various biological activities. This study aims to encapsulate CA to overcome its solubility, astringency and bitter taste issues and determine its properties. The encapsulated chebulagic acid (ECA) was incorporated into orange juice (OR), and a storage stability study at ambient temperature (25 ± 2 °C) and sensory analysis using a 9‐point hedonic scale were conducted. The highest encapsulation efficiency (89.24% ± 0.08%), antioxidant activity (96.82% ± 0.03%) and considerable powder yield (~59.3% ± 1.07%) with better water absorption index (0.64 ± 0.008 g/g), water solubility index (98.04 ± 0.016/100 g) and swelling capacity (0.055 ± 0.002 g/g) were achieved at 140 °C spray drying temperature with 60% maltodextrin and 40% gum Arabic. At the ambient storage conditions (25 ± 2 °C), the storage stability of ECA was 640 days (54.19% ± 0.02%), CA was 130 days (52.46% ± 0.14%) and the addition of ECA increased the OR's storage stability to 200 days (50.13% ± 0.59%) with respect to the antioxidant activity. From the sensory evaluation, the OR and OR added with 0.2 g/100 mL ECA samples were preferred by the 100 panellists and liked immensely. Overall, the encapsulation of CA successfully masked the astringency and bitterness, improving the CA's stability and increasing the orange juice's storage stability with more consumer acceptability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Terminalia bellirica (TB) is noted for its medicinal values and associated with many siddha, ayurvedic and unani preparations. It is commonly known as bahera or beleric and seemed to be a common plant on plains and hill areas especially, in Southeast Asia. The present study aimed to compare its cytotoxicity and anti carcinogenic activity of the seed extracts using Vero and HepG-2 (hepatoma) cell lines by MTT method. T. bellerica seed was extracted with different solvents viz., methanol, ethylacetate, chloroform and aqueous. Among them, aqueous and chloroform extract activity was not confirmed with dose dependency on both of the cell lines, but, methanolic and ethylacetate extracts showed concentration dependent activities. Further, they were analysed on different concentration levels. The ethylacetate and methanolic extract showed IC50 value as 20.11± 0.30, and 61.9 ± 0.30µg/ml respectively on HepG2 cells. Their activity was statistically significant and confirmed by evaluation of Hill coefficient method. The treated cells revealed the cell shrinkage and decrease in viable cells than the counterparts in controls. Further the findings of the study revealed that TB extract markedly possessed anticancer and anti-proliferative effects against hepatocellular carcinoma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Coenosopsia Malloch has eight known species distributed from southern North America to south-eastern South America. The species of the genus are morphologically very homogeneous, and major differences remain in male terminalia. Remarkably, two of the main diagnostic characteristics of Anthomyiidae are absent in this genus: the setulae on the ventral surface of the scutellum and vein A1 reaching the wing margin. Some studies have attempted to propose biogeographical narratives, primarily for the Neotropical distribution of the genus. Herein, we describe three new species of Coenosopsia from north-eastern Brazil (Coenosopsia limeirai sp. nov.), southern Brazil (Coenosopsia ribeiroi sp. nov.), and central Mexico (Coenosopsia azteca sp. nov.) and present an identification key. In addition, we present an updated phylogenetic analysis based on morphological evidence, which recovered Coenosopsia as monophyletic based on five synapomorphies and four homoplasies. We also presented the first biogeographical hypothesis of Coenosopsia based on biogeographic methods (ancestral reconstruction character and S-DIVA analyses), which indicated a Mesoamerican origin of the genus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This investigation highlights the chemical seed husk extracts of Terminalia bellirica and Terminalia arjuna. On the other side, the consumer highly favored orange juice, but its shelf life is less than 7 days at 4°C. So, juice requires a preservation press to increase self-life. This chemical preservation may be harmful to health in the long run. This study showed the effect of aqueous and ethanol extracts seed husks (at 0.5 and 1% concentrations) on orange juice. Compared to sodium benzoate (Artificial chemical preservation) it stored all treatments at 4°C for 14 days. This study showed a higher quality of natural preservation during the juice storage period compared to artificial. Seed husk extracts are a natural product that showed control of pathogenic growth as artificial preservation. Orange juice still seems to be fresh for more than a week without detectable, unfavorite physical or chemical changes compared to the control at 4°C. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The abdominal and pregenital segments and genitalia were studied in males of Zaphne barbiventris (Zetterstedt, 1845) and Delia fabricii (Holmgren, 1872) (Anthomyiidae). The examined species are very similar in the structure of the sclerites and muscles of their terminal segments. Differences between Delia Robineau‐Desvoidy, 1830 and Zaphne Robineau‐Desvoidy, 1830 were found only in the structure of the pregenital segments and their muscles. Delia has well‐developed and well‐identified tergite VI, while tergite VI of Zaphne is fused in syntergosternite VI + VII + VIII as indicated by the insertion of muscles of ITM 5 running from tergite V. Within members of the muscoid grade, the skeleton and musculature of male terminalia of the Anthomyiidae were similar to that in the subfamily Azeliinae of the Muscidae and the Scathophagidae. The complete set of phallapodeme muscles, as well as the complete set of muscles of the pregenital sclerites and the position of cercal muscles M 26, has shown that the Anthomyiidae have more plesiomorphic character states than other members of the muscoid grade. Descriptions and figures of the terminal sclerites and muscles of Zaphne barbiventris are provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Infectious diseases remain a major source of death and sickness globally. Their management entails use of antimicrobials. However, emergence of microbial resistance to these agents is on the increase. Inflammation and oxidative stress also accompany disease states. Newer agents to counter microbes, inflammation and oxidative stress are needed. Terminalia avicennioides Guill and Perr. is regularly exploited as a traditional remedy to numerous complaints, comprising infections, inflammation and enhancement of well-being. This study was intended to examine the effects of the root extracts and fractions of T. avicennioides against select bacteria and fungi as well as their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant potentials. Antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant assessments were conducted with broth microdilution technique, lipoxygenase and 2,2-diphenyl-1-picryhydrazyl (DPPH) assays, respectively. Results: All the bacteria displayed varying susceptibility to the different extracts. The extracts caused good antibacterial activity towards Staphylococcus aureus, Salmonella typhimurium, Stenotrophomonas maltophilis, Enterobacter cloaca, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Echinococcus faecalis and Escherichia coli, but moderate for Proteus mirabilis and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Antifungal action varied from good to moderate against Fusarium spp, moderate against Aspergillus niger but inactive against Candida albicans. Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities were dose-dependent, recording robust activity at higher concentrations. The n-butanol fraction manifested the highest anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities, then ethylacetate while methanol extract showed better activities among hot and cold water extracts. Conclusions: The analysis of the biological activities of T. avicennioides root extracts and fractions revealed encouraging antibacterial, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities, which were dose reliant. The different extracts and fractions displayed variable grades of activity. The plant showed good antibacterial but weak antifungal action. These activities could be credited to polyphenols and other plant constituents. This report may explain some of the traditional medicinal uses of the plant and could open the door for further studies in search of newer compounds against microbial organisms, inflammation and/or oxidative stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A systematic treatment of the native Combretaceae in the Indo-Burmese region, including Sri Lanka, India, Pakistan, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh and Myanmar, is presented in a synoptic way. Four genera, 50 species and seven varieties are recognized and treated with keys to the genera and species, nomenclature, relevant synonymy, typifications, habitat, and distribution. A total of 22 names have been lectotypified, including second-step lectotypes for two names. Neotypes are designated here for 11 names and an epitype for one name. New varietal combinations have also been proposed for three names, namely Terminalia coronata var. parviflora, T. pendula var. fischeri, and T. pendula var. phillyreifolia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]