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This work describes the chemical composition of the stems of Astronium graveolens Jacq. (Anacardiaceae). The CH 2 Cl 2 and EtOAc soluble fractions of this extract were subjected to chromatographic procedures that allowed obtaining the unreported dimers (7" R *, 8" S *) 2′, 4,4′, 5-tetrahydroxychalcone-(2 → 7", 8 → 8")-2′", 4", 4′"- trihydroxy-7", 8"-dihydrochalcone and (7 S *,8 R *,7" S *,8" S *)-2′,4,4′,5,7-pentahydroxy-7,8-dihydrochalcone-(2→7",8→8")-2′",4",4"'-7 ", 8 "- dihydrochalcone, the previously isolated chalcone dimer named matosine (7 S *,8 S *,7'' S *,8" R *)-2′,4,4′, 5,7-pentahydroxy-7,8-dihydrochalcone-(2→7", 8→8")-2′", 4", 4′"-trihydroxy-7", 8"- dihydrochalcone). Besides these specific chalcone dimers, sitosterol, sitosterol-3- O -β-D-glucoside, methyl gallate, gallic acid, and quercitrin were also isolated. These compounds were identified by mono and bidimensional NMR data analysis and HRMS. Methanolysis of triacylglycerides yielded a mixture of fatty acid methyl esters, which were identified by GC-MS. The profile indicated this fraction is composed of saturated (54.13 %) and unsaturated (46.21 %) fatty acids, and palmitic acid and oleic acid are the major components. The brine shrimp test of the extract showed that the soluble fraction CH 2 Cl 2 of the stems exhibited high toxicity; meanwhile, the EtOAc soluble fraction presented moderate toxicity. The Elmann test indicated that the EtOAc was considered an expressive AChE inhibitor, and the chalcone dimers 1 , 2, and 3 present excellent anticholinesterase activities inhibiting 83.88 %, 70.72 %, and 62.60 % AChE at concentrations of 500 µM, respectively. [Display omitted] • New chalcone dimers were isolated from Astronium graveolens stem. • Astronium graveolens extracts and isolated chalcone dimers inhibit anticholinesterase enzyme. • Chalcone dimers were isolated for the first time in Astronium genus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Traditionally, it represents an alternative for respiratory and gastrointestinal disorders. • Absence of trichomes and presence of resinous ducts on the stem. • Druse-type crystals on the petiole and midrib. • Presence of paracytic stomata on the abaxial surface. • The histochemistry revealed the location of the metabolites. Anacardium occidentale belongs to the Anacardiaceae family and is popularly known as cashew. It is provided with several pharmacological activities, described in the National List of Medicinal Plants of Interest to the Unified Health System. Its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antimicrobial, antidiabetic, molluscicidal, and larvicidal activities stand out. As it is a plant of great economic and medicinal importance, it is necessary to characterize the pharmacobotanical profile of this species. Thus, the present work aims to carry out a microscopic and histochemical characterization applied to the quality control of A. occidentale. Cross-sections of the stem, petiole and leaf blade were performed, as well as longitudinal sections of the stem and paradermal sections of the leaf blade. Anatomical studies were performed under light, polarization and scanning electron microscopy. For histochemical analysis, different reagents were used according to the metabolite under investigation. Among the anatomical structures that provide a detailed diagnosis of the studied parts of this species, the presence of resin ducts, druse crystals, glandular trichomes, paracytic stomata, and isobilateral mesophyll stand out. Histochemistry identified the location of different substances, such as starch, phenolic compounds, lipophilic compounds, lignin, essential oils, tannins, triterpenes, steroids, and calcium oxalate crystals in the leaf blade. Through the analysis of ultra-anatomical images by SEM-EDS, it was also possible to verify that the crystals found in the leaf blade are calcium oxalate. Its elemental composition was shown in detail. In view of the results, the importance of this study is justified because important characteristics of the anatomical structure of the stem and leaves of this medicinal species of wide distribution in Brazil are now identified. They are essential parameters for the determination of botanical authenticity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Medicinal plants can show allelopathic potential. • Plant extracts rich in phenols, flavonoids and tannins showed high allelopathic activities. • Annona dioica (Annonaceae), Stryphnodendron adstringens (Fabaceae) and Palicourea crocea (Rubiaceae) decelerated U. decumbens seed germination. • Alternative methods for controlling U. decumbens in areas of ecological restoration. Invasive grasses, those of the genus Urochloa act aggressively, thereby inhibiting the germination and growth of native species. We investigated the allelopathic potential and constituent content of different plant species to determine their effect on the germination of Urochloa decumbens (Stapf) R.D. Webster. Eighteen (18) species from the families Anacardiaceae (1), Annonaceae (6), Euphorbiaceae (1), Fabaceae (2), Myrtaceae (1), Rubiaceae (4), Sapindaceae (2), and Tropaeolaceae (1) were selected to obtain methanolic extracts at 1% (m/v). The total phenols, flavonoids, condensed tannins, flavonols, and saponins were evaluated by colorimetric methods. To evaluate the allelopathic effect of methanolic extracts 25 seeds from U. decumbens were distributed in Petri dishes containing two sheets of germitest paper and 2 mL of extract, and they were maintained at 25 °C under white light. All methanolic extracts showed total phenols, flavonoids, flavonols, and condensed tannins; however, saponin was identified in A. coriacea, A. crassiflora, A. sylvatica, Psychotria carthagenensis, P. leiocarpa, and Tropaeolum majus. Annona dioica (Annonaceae), Stryphnodendron adstringens (Fabaceae), and Palicourea crocea (Rubiaceae) have allelopathic potential and showed decelerated U. decumbens seed germination and inhibited hypocotyl and radicle growth. These findings provide insights into alternative methods for controlling U. decumbens in areas of ecological restoration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Marking nut or Bhilawa is the fruit of plant Semecarpus anacardium Linn (Family; Anacardiaceae). It belongs to Semecarpus genera which also includes cashew nuts. It is closely related to Rhus and Toxicodendron genera, which includes poison ivy and poison sumac and causes similar skin reaction due to the presence of compound urushiol. Marking nut dermatitis is an uncommon problem but has special importance in military dermatology. Individuals can get exposed to this plant during camping which can result in an irritant or allergic contact dermatitis. It can also be applied deliberately to cause factitious dermatitis. We present 5 cases of factitious dermatitis resulting from application of marking nut. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The reliability of estimates of tropical lowland vegetation cover based on lacustrine pollen records has long been debated. Here, we assess the reliability of relative pollen productivity estimates (RPPs) obtained in tropical Hainan island using surface pollen assemblages from six reservoirs and the Regional Estimates of Vegetation Abundance from Large Sites (REVEALS) model. The resulting REVEALS estimates are compared to observations of vegetation coverin the studied region and pollen percentages. The REVEALS estimates for most tropical taxa including Poaceae, Moraceae, Euphorbiaceae, Mallotus/Macaranga , Castanopsis/Lithocarpus , were more similar to the observed vegetation cover than estimates based on simple pollen percentages, suggesting that the previously reported RPPs are reliable. The REVEALS estimates for some taxa (i.e. Rubiaceae and Anacardiaceae) are comparable to those based on pollen percentages, but RPPs for these taxa are difficult to evaluate. However, the pollen percentages for some taxa including Asteraceae and Papilionaceae agree better with the observed vegetation cover than the REVEALS corrections, implying either that there are problems with the corresponding RPPs or that there is bias in the observed vegetation data used for validation. We suggest that the reliability of the RPPs for plant taxa in tropical areas depends strongly on their abundance in the pollen and vegetation data: high abundance implies high reliability and vice versa. REVEALS cover estimates for groups of taxa consistently agreed well with observed vegetation cover, suggesting that the REVEALS model can be applied even in tropical regions if individual species are grouped, which may be useful when reconstructing historical landscape changes in tropical Asia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Schinus molle L. is a medicinal species belonging to the Anacardiaceae family. It is commonly referred to as "aroeira" and its leaves and roots are utilized for treating different pathological conditions. However, despite its widespread use in traditional medicine, there is a lack of in-depth toxicological studies. To evaluate the acute toxicity and genotoxicity of S. molle aqueous extract/ethanol-soluble fraction in rats. First, a purified aqueous extract was obtained from the leaves of S. mole through infusion (referred to as EESM) and its compounds were identified using LC-DAD-MS data. Female rats were then subjected to acute oral toxicity tests using doses of 5, 50, 300, and 2000 mg/kg of ESSM. Studies on genetic material, including the micronucleus test and comet assay, were conducted on male and female Wistar rats using the same doses as in the acute toxicity test. For both assays, ESSM was administered orally. The main metabolites annotated from ESSM were dimeric proanthocyanidins, phenylpropanoids acids, flavan-3-ols, simple organic acids (C6–C1), a flavonol di- O -glycosylated (rutin), and O -glycosylated megastigmane. The ESSM did not exhibit any acute toxic effects, such as changes in biochemical, hematologic, or histopathological analysis. Furthermore, no changes were observed in comet assay or micronucleus tests when rats were given doses of 5, 50, 300, or 2000 mg/kg of ESSM. The results showed that the ESSM does not induce acute toxicity or exhibit genotoxicity up to a dose of 2000 mg/kg. [Display omitted] • Schinus molle L. is a medicinal species belonging to the Anacardiaceae family. • Despite its widespread use there is a lack of in-depth toxicological studies. • The aqueous extract/ethanol-soluble fraction (ESSM) did not exhibit any acute toxic effects. • No changes were observed in comet assay or micronucleus tests. • ESSM does not induce toxicity up to a dose of 2000 mg/kg. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Four new phenols and one new aminobenzoic acid derivative, with five known phenols were isolated from the roots of Rhus chinensis Mill. Their structures were elucidated by UV, IR, HRESIMS, 1D and 2D NMR spectra, as well as optical rotations. Compound 4 significantly inhibited mouse ear inflammation (inhibitory rate of 44.03%), and significantly extended the time of pain response (extension rate of 48.55%), showing significant anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects in vivo. [Display omitted] • Five new compounds were isolated from roots of Rhus chinensis Mill. • The structures were elucidated mainly by UV, IR, HRESIMS, NMR spectra. • Compound 4 showed anti-inflammation and analgesic effects in vivo. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pistacia integerrima galls are traditionally applied for the treatment of various diseases pathological conditions and diseases. The aim of the present study was to explore the phytochemical and pharmacological importance of galls of Pistacia integerrima. The phytochemical study of the galls of Pistacia integerrima led to the purification of flavonoids namely 3,5,7,4/-tetrahydroxy-flavanone (1), naringenin (2), 3,5,4/-trihydroxy,7-methoxy-flavanone (3) and sakuranetin (4). The extracts, various fractions, and purified compounds were evaluated for antibacterial and antifungal sensitivity. The methanolic and chloroform fraction exhibited excellent activity against K. pneumonia, E. coli, B. subtilis, and S. aureus with an inhibitory zone of 16-24 mm. The isolated flavonoids (1-4) were screened for antibacterial properties. Among tested samples compounds 1 and 2 exhibited significant effect against S. aureus E. coli , and B. subtilis, S. epidermis with inhibitory zone 20 to 31 mm followed by compound 3 compared to the maximum effect of Imipenem with the zone of inhibition of 29 mm. Similarly, the extract and flavonoids (1-4) were also assessed for antifungal activity, among tested samples the chloroform and methanolic extracts exhibited the promising activity against tested fungal species. The n- hexane fraction was found least active among the entire samples. Compounds 1 and 2 exhibited promising effects against F. solani, M. canis, T. logifusus, and C. glabrata (18-58 mm) followed by compounds 3 , and 4 also showed good sensitivity against F. solani, M. canis, T. logifusus and C. glabrata (22-46). Interestingly no substantial cytotoxicity was detected in the case of the MTT screening test, thus our results indicate the safety profile of the extracts and flavonoids. [Display omitted] • Flavonoids (1-4) were isolated from the galls of Pistacia integerrima. • The extracts and isolated compounds exhibited excellent antibacterial effects against selected bacterial strains. • The extracts and isolated compounds also have excellent antifungal activity against selected fungal strains. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Dobinin V is the first example of 7,8- seco -11,12,13-trinoreudesmane sesquiterpenoid in nature. • A possible biosynthetic pathway of dobinins V−Z, and AA is proposed. • Lipid-lowering activity of eudesmane sesquiterpenoids was first discovered. • Dobinin AA showed significant in vitro lipid-lowering activity. • Dobinins X and Y showed moderate in vitro antimalarial activities. Six undescribed noreudesmane sesquiterpenoids (dobinins V-Z, and AA; 1 – 6) were isolated from Dobinea delavayi , including 1 as the first example of 7,8- seco -11,12,13-trinoreudesmane sesquiterpenoids with a unique skeleton fusing by a cyclohexane and a six-membered lactone. NMR and HR-ESI-MS spectroscopies were used to identify the structures of dobinins V-Z, and AA, and single-crystal X-ray diffraction experiment was conducted to verify the structure of dobinin V. A biosynthetic pathway of dobinins V-Z, and AA was suggested based on the structure. The isolated compounds were tested in vitro for lipid-lowering activity and for antimalarial activity against Plasmodium falciparum 3D7. Eudesmane sesquiterpenoids were discovered to have lipid-lowering activity for the first time. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Two new benzophenones 1 and 2 were isolated from Dobinea delavayi. • Complete spectral data of athyriol (4) were reported for the first time. • α -Hydroxycaffeic acid (6) was isolated as a natural product for the first time. • α -Hydroxycaffeic acid (6) exhibited significant in vitro antimalarial activity. Two new benzophenones, 2,6,3′,4′-tetrahydroxy-4-methoxybenzophenone (1) and 2,6,4′-trihydroxy-4,3′-dimethoxybenzophenone (2), together with four known phenolic compounds (3 - 6) were isolated from the roots of Dobinea delavayi (Anacardiaceae). Structures of the isolated compounds were determined by the comprehensive analyses of the physicochemical properties and spectral data (NMR and MS). In vitro antimalarial activity and cytotoxicity of isolated compounds were evaluated by β -hematin formation inhibition assay and MTT colorimetric assay, respectively. Compound 6 exhibited significant in vitro antimalarial activity with IC 50 value of 42.1 μg/mL. Compound 4 exhibited weak cytotoxicity against HepG2 and MCF-7 cells with IC 50 values of 169.2 and 192.0 μg/mL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A. indica has an allelopathic effect on the germination of M. urundeuva seeds. • A. indica is capable of reducing photosynthetic pigments. • A. indica released margocinolid, epoxyazadiradione, margosinona, iso-azadirolida. Azadirachta indica have allelopathic potential, attributed to the presence of allelochemicals capable of altering plant diversity in surrounding areas. This work aimed to evaluate if the decomposed leaves of A. indica can affect the germination and growth of Myracrodruon urundeuva. A. indica leaves were collected at the end of senescence and mixed with soil in different concentrations and decomposed for 90 and 180 days. Through phytochemical analysis, it was found the presence of diterpenes and triterpenes, such as margocinolide, epoxyazadiradione and salimuzzalin. Leaf decomposition negatively affected germinability, emergence speed and the germination synchrony index of M. urundeuva , especially during the first decomposition period. The residues of the leaves of A. indica also negatively affected the length of the young plants of M. urundeuva , since the lengths of the stem and root were reduced, and the treatment of lower concentration a reduction in root length was observed only in the first decomposition period (T1). Leaf residues in the first decomposition time also negatively influenced the total biomass of M. urundeuva , in all treatments evaluated. The decomposition were also able to change the amount of photosynthetic pigments in the first decomposition period, since the total chlorophyll content had a reduction from the average value of 3.23 to 2.40 g/kg, corresponding to a 25.71 inhibition. The observed results suggest that the compounds present in the litter of A. indica have an allelopathic action, being necessary to limit the use of the former in areas that need ecological restoration and in preserved natural environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Secretory ducts of Anacardiaceae produce a heterogeneous secretion. • Two kinds of ducts are mainly present in Anacardiaceae: resin and gum ducts. • The kind of duct is linked to its location and origin in the plant body. Secretory ducts in vegetative and reproductive organs of Anacardiaceae have long been documented. However, despite the numerous studies on the anatomy and ultrastructure of these ducts, our knowledge about a possible diversity of duct metabolism in a same plant is scarce. In this study, we aimed to revisit the structure, distribution and metabolic diversity of ducts in vegetative and reproductive organs of Anacardiaceae. The distribution and anatomy of the secretory ducts in the stem, leaves, flowers and fruits of four species of Anacardiaceae were studied and their secretions histochemically characterized. Differences in the composition of the secretion according to the distribution of the ducts were detected, and more than one type of duct can occur in the same organ. In vegetative organs all the phloem ducts produce a complex, mixed resin mostly composed of lipophilic compounds (resin sensu lato). Medullary ducts of Anacardium and Spondias produce only gum, while in Tapirira they have a mixed resin. In reproductive organs, the secretion has a similar composition to the vegetative organs in each species, except in the fruits of Anacardium , where the ducts produce only lipids (resin sensu stricto). The general morphology of the ducts and the production of resins are conservative not only in Anacardiaceae, but also in other Sapindalean families. Our findings demonstrated for the first time in Anacardiaceae the presence of two kinds of ducts, which produce different classes of compounds depending on their origin and distribution. Earlier descriptions referring Anacardiaceae gum-resin and/or latex ducts are in the current article denominate as resin ducts sensu lato. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Rhus javanica seeds exhibit combinational dormancy. • Mechanical scarification makes pericarp water-permeable. • Scarification for up to 20 min improved water absorption and germination. • Cold stratification of water-permeable seeds enhanced germination. • Combined mechanical scarification and cold stratification promoted germination. Seeds with combinational dormancy have both physical (PY) and physiological (PD) dormancy. Chemical scarification and cold-moist stratification alleviate PY and PD, respectively. Therefore, we tested the effectiveness of mechanical scarification and cold-moist stratification for the release of combinational dormancy in Rhus javanica seeds to minimize the possibility of any internal damage and determine the optimal germination conditions. Mechanical scarification by a brushing machine and cold-moist stratification for 12 weeks weakened the pericarp and improved water absorption and percent germination. Prolonging mechanical scarification for up to 20 min further improved water absorption and percent germination; however, there was no significant difference in germination after 20 min (64.9%) and 40 min (63.1%) of mechanical scarification. The removal of blister-like structures in nontreated seeds by mechanical scarification enhanced water absorption. Further, cracks between the two inner pericarp cell-layers improved water absorption. Combined mechanical scarification (20 min) and cold-moist stratification (12 weeks) effectively broke combinational dormancy of R. javanica seeds and, therefore, comprise a suitable treatment for seed germination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Sixty plant species with edible fruits in southern Africa recorded. • Mineral properties for many fruits reported here for the first time. • Wild indigenous fruits contain high amounts of calcium, potassium and magnesium. • Most fruits tested contain vitamin C, but not vitamin A. Southern Africa harbours a diverse range of wild edible indigenous fruits, which have provided populations with food for years and most are anticipated to have potentially good nutritional value. The aim of this study was to conduct a literature survey as a means to identify knowledge gaps and to conduct mineral and vitamin analyses. A total of 60 species, distributed in 35 families are recorded. Selected 14 fruits were evaluated for their micronutrient composition, namely; minerals and vitamins (A and C). Mineral elements potassium and calcium were present in substantial amounts in most fruits ranging from 522 to 14289 mg/kg. Even though most fruits were high in only one mineral element, Cordyla africana had the highest content of six minerals (i.e. Al, Fe, Mn, Pb, Se and Zn). Most fruits showed the presence of vitamin C and absence of vitamin A. Only Dovyalis longispina (903 mg/100 g), Manilkara mochisia (25 mg/100 g), Garcinia livingstonei (11 mg/100 g) and Syzygium guineense (1.7 mg/100 g) displayed significant amounts of vitamin A. Overall, the study showed that most wild edible fruits have good nutritional value, however, these fruits require more scientific scrutiny in order to thrive in the commercial markets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Chaco Region is the third biogeographic and morpho-structural territory of South America after the Amazon and Cerrado savannahs. This region is one of the few areas in the world where the transition from the tropics to temperate zones does not consist of a desert but of semi-arid woodlands and savannahs. The modern biodiversity patterns of the region were severely affected by the climatic and environmental changes that occurred during the Quaternary. Remains of an extinct megamammal Neosclerocalyptus sp. (Upper Pleistocene) and charred fossil woods inside of sedimentary nodules, was recently discovered in Chaco Argentina. The aim of paper is the paleoenvironmental reconstruction of quaternary sedimentation in the western Chaco through the taxonomic identification of charred woods and siliceous microfossils analysis. Twenty-three charcoal fragments related to Anacardiaceae, Apocynaceae, Fabaceae, Rhamnaceae and Malvaceae were identified. The phytolith analysis showed that Poaceae elements were the most abundant compared to the other herbaceous and non-herbaceous elements, along with algae and sponge microfossils. Eco-anatomic features of the charcoals and the microfossil remains suggest that environment and climate conditions existed in the area during the Upper Pleistocene were similar to the current one. Finally, the results reveal the presence of natural wildfires during the Quaternary in the region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Terminthia paniculata (Sanyeqi) is widely used for treating inflammation and rheumatic arthritis in the folk areas of Yunnan province, China. Its total extract was first revealed with xanthine oxidase (XO) inhibitory activity in vitro and anti-hyperuricemic effect in vivo. Bioassay-guided separation on Fr. A5 yielded six chalcone-flavonone heterodimers, termipaniculatones A-F. Their structures were elucidated based on extensive spectroscopic analyses involving HRESIMS, 1D and 2D NMR, UV, IR and [ α ] D , and the absolute configuration of termipaniculatone F was verified by ECD calculation. Termipaniculatones A and E showed obvious XO inhibitory activity with IC 50 values of 55.6 and 89.5 μ M, respectively, which took effects via a mix-type mode. A molecular modeling study revealed that termipaniculatone A was well located into the active site of XO by interacting with Glu802, Arg880, Thr1010 and Val1011 residues. Termipaniculatone A showed anti-hyperuricemic effects by decreasing serum uric acid levels and inhibiting XO activity in both serum and liver on potassium oxonate (PO)-induced hyperuricemia mice, and anti-inflammatory activity through alleviating paw swelling on monosodium urate (MSU)-induced mice, at the concentration of 20 mg/kg. This is the first time to reveal the anti-hyperuricemic and anti-acute gouty arthritis potency of T. paniculata and the characteristic biflavonoids as active constituents, which provides valuable information for searching new XO inhibitors from natural sources. Image 1 • Six undescribed chalcone-flavonone heterodimers were isolated from T. paniculata. • Termipaniculatones A and E showed obvious XO inhibition (IC 50 = 55.6 and 89.5 μ M). • Termipaniculatone A protected hyperuricemia and acute gouty arthritis in vivo. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• An optimized in vitro mango pollen germination has been developed. • Pollen germination was clearly affected by temperature. • Differences were observed among cultivars in pollen germination at different temperatures. • The results open the way to expand mango cultivation to areas with Mediterranean climates. Previous studies in mango (Mangifera indica) had reported how low pollen viability can reduce yields. In this work, an improved in vitro pollen germination method for mango is used to assess germination range at different environmental conditions. Since mango is an andromonoecious species, pollen performance was studied in hermaphrodite and male flowers. The results showed a similar number of pollen grains per anther and pollen viability and germination between the two mango flower morphs. Pollen germination was also studied at different temperature conditions, and results showed that percentage of pollen germination improved along the flowering season with increasing temperatures. Pollen germination at controlled temperatures slowed down at low temperatures. Differences were found between genotypes in pollen behavior at different temperatures opening the possibility of selecting mango genotypes with pollen more adapted to cold temperatures, especially for subtropical conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The first records of fossil plants from the Ñirihuau Formation (middle Miocene) were published by Edward Berry at the beginning of the last century. They consist of a small collection of leaf imprints obtained from the southern margin of the Ñirihuau River valley, western Río Negro, Argentina. Based on these records, Berry described a few ferns, gymnosperms and angiosperms. Among these impressions, stand out two specimens that Berry interpreted as pinnate leaves of Cycadaceae (now Zamiaceae) that he assigned to the new species Zamia australis Berry. However, after a review of Berry's original materials of Z. australis , and new specimens collected in recent years in the same fossil locality, it is concluded that these putative zamiaceous remains are in fact angiosperm leaves. They show great similarity with those of the current South American species Lithraea molleoides (Vell.) Engl. (Anacardiaceae). To encompass these remains, a new combination, Lithraea australis (Berry) is proposed. From a paleophytogeographic point of view, the recognition of a L. molleoides closely related species suggests that the plant communities of the upper section of the Ñirihuau Formation were part of the "Transitional Province" or at least constituted the ecotone between it and the " Nothofagidites " Province. • New and historical fossil leaves from the Miocene of Patagonia are studied. • They were originally referred by Berry (1928) to the cycad Zamia australis. • Features observed in these remains allow its relocation in the family Anacardiaceae. • A new combination, Lithraea australis , is here proposed. • Paleophytogeographic implications from this fossil record are briefly discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Ethnopharmacological relevance Holigarna caustica (Dennst.) is commonly used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of painful conditions such as eye irritation, inflammation, arthritis, skin diseases, cuts and wounds. Aim of the study The present study was undertaken to investigate the anti-nociceptive and anti-inflammatory activities of the methanol extract of H. caustica leaves and to elucidate its possible mechanism(s) of action. Materials and methods Fresh leaves of H. caustica were collected, dried, and extracted with methanol (MEHC). MEHC was subjected to activity testing, using chemical-induced (acetic acid and formalin test) and heat-induced (hot plate and tail immersion test) pain models. To determine the possible mechanism behind the anti-nociceptive activity of MEHC, the opioid antagonist naltrexone was used to evaluate the involvement of opioid receptors in the case of formalin, hot plate and tail immersion tests, while the involvement of the cGMP and ATP-sensitive K+ channel pathways were assessed using methylene blue and glibenclamide respectively, in the acetic acid-induced writhing test. In parallel, the carrageenan-induced paw oedema model was used to determine the anti-inflammatory potential of the extract. Exploratory and motor behaviours were evaluated by the open-field test. Various bioactive compounds potentially responsible for the anti-nociceptive and anti-inflammatory activities were ascertained using GC-MS analysis. Results MEHC showed strong, significant and dose-dependent anti-nociceptive activity in all chemical-induced and heat-induced pain models at all experimental doses. The association of opioid receptors with the observed anti-nociceptive effects was confirmed by using naltrexone. The cGMP and ATP-sensitive K+ channel pathway was also shown to be involved in the anti-nociceptive activity of MEHC. In addition, MEHC exhibited a dose-dependent inhibition of inflammatory oedema induced by carrageenan. MEHC was not connected with changes in either the locomotor activity or motor responses of mice. In a GC-MS analysis, 40 compounds were identified, among which twelve are documented bioactive compounds with potent analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties. Conclusions Our current study revealed that MEHC possesses strong central and peripheral anti-nociceptive as well as anti-inflammatory activity. It may also be concluded that both opioid receptors as well as the cGMP and ATP-sensitive K+ channel pathway are involved in the anti-nociceptive mechanism of MEHC. This study rationalizes the ethnomedicinal use of H. caustica leaves in various painful conditions. Graphical abstract fx1 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lannea schweinfurthii var. stuhlmannii , an African tree ranging from Sudan southwards to South Africa, has its thicker roots covered by an unusual furry layer of hair-like structures originating from the periderm. Wool-like hairs harvested from this layer, known in the vernacular Tshivenḓa as vhulivhadza , is a widely used and traded natural product in Limpopo Province, South Africa. Here we provide a detailed account of the cultural uses of vhulivhadza based on original ethnobotanical surveys among the Vhavenḓa, as well as a review of the literature. Our findings indicate that vhulivhadza is a "magical medicine," mostly used to induce several forms of forgetfulness, both in humans and in animals. Various uses reported for L. schweinfurthii and L. alata , the latter an East African species with similar root bark hairs, suggest that the custom to use these hairs to induce forgetfulness is confined to southern Africa. The practice of taking traditional medicine to "forget something" or "to make people forget" is quite widespread in southern Africa. We discuss vhulivhadza and a few other plants used locally for this purpose, notably the mysterious sho-|õä plant of the now extinct | Xam culture, Asclepias crispa (Apocynaceae: Asclepiadoideae) and Galium tomentosum (Rubiaceae). The roots of Lannea schweinfurthii and other members of the genus are rich in phytochemicals, with at least some screenings for biological activity suggesting the presence of compounds that may affect the neurological system. In the absence of any comprehensive chemical or pharmaceutical analyses of vhulivhadza itself, the claimed memory-altering activities of this material can tentatively perhaps best be explained by psychological rather than physical (chemical) effects, but a more definite scientific explanation must await further study. • A detailed account of the cultural uses of vhulivhadza among the Vhavenḓa is presented. • The name refers to the wool-like hairs on roots of Lannea schweinfurthii var. stuhlmannii. • Vhulivhadza is a "magical medicine" used to induce several forms of forgetfulness. • Galium tomentosum (rooivergeet) and Asclepias crispa (witvergeet) have similar uses. • The sho-|õä plant of the now extinct | Xam culture is probably Galium tomentosum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The indigenous communities around Africa and most parts of the world rely on indigenous knowledge systems in identification of edible indigenous foods that supplement their livelihood. This is a practice that has been there since time immemorial. Information on edible indigenous fruit plants was documented among the Mapulana through semi-structured interviews. Eighty-two informants were interviewed on their knowledge of edible indigenous fruit plants. Fifty-two fruit plants species were reported to be part of dietary supplements of the Mapulana. The species belonged to 26 plant families with Anacardiaceae and Rhamnaceae being the dominant families. Native and naturalized fruit species shared unequal preference within the communities, with native fruits being highly preferred than naturalized. The high preference of native fruit plants species shows the potential of unexplored product development. The development of products should be encouraged by the fact that the Mapulana are already cultivating some of these edible indigenous fruit plants in the backyards of their homesteads. • Community elders are the sole consumers of indigenous fruit species. • Naturalized fruit species have not displaced the consumption to native species. • Knowledge of the fruit species still remains with parents and grand parents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Antiplasmodial, antitrypanosomal and anti-HIV-1 activities of crude extracts, fractions and some isolated compounds from two Cameroonian medicinal plants: Antrocaryon klaineanum Pierre (Anacardiaceae) and Diospyros conocarpa Gürke ex K. Schum. (Ebenaceae) were assessed. The phytochemical studies led to the isolation of eight compounds (1 – 8) from Diospyros conocarpa and six compounds (6, 9 – 13) from Antrocaryon klaineanum. These compounds were identified as mangiferolic acid (1), 3β, 22(S)-dihydroxycycloart-24E-en-26-oic acid (2), lupeol (3), aridanin (4), betulin (5), betulinic acid (6), bergenin (7), D-quercitol(8), entilin C(9), entilin A(10), antrocarine A(11), 7R,20(S)-dihydroxy-4,24(28)-ergostadien-3-one(12) and stigmasterol glucoside (13). The criteria for activity were set as follows: an IC 50 value < 10 μg/mL for crude extracts and < 1 μg/mL for pure compounds. The hexane/ethyl acetate (1:1) fraction of A.klaineanum root bark (AKERF1) and the hexane/ethyl acetate (1:1) fraction of A.klaineanum trunk bark (AKETF1) presented the strongest antiplasmodial activities with IC 50 values of 0.4 and 4.4 μg/mL, respectively. Aridanin (4) and antrocarine A(11), as well as the crude extract of D.conocarpa roots (EDCR), AKERF1 and AKETF1 showed moderate trypanocidal effects. The crude extract of A.klaineanum root bark (AKER) and AKETF1 exhibited attractive activities on HIV-1 integrase with IC 50 values of 1.96 and 24.04 μg/mL, respectively. The results provide baseline information on the use of A.klaineanum and D.conocarpa extracts , as well as certain components, as sources of new antiplasmodial, antitrypanosomal and anti-HIV drugs. • First evaluation of antimalarial and HIV-1 integrase activities of Antrocaryon klaineanum and Diospyros conocarpa. • Extracts active against HIV-1 integrase with IC 50 as low as 1.96 μg/mL. • Fractions of A. klaineanum exhibited antiplasmodial activities with IC 50 as low as 0.4 μg/mL. • Aridanin and antrocarine A displayed moderate trypanocidal effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract The Brazilian flora is very rich in edible fruits but only a fraction of this potential is known and properly used. In this study, we discuss the importance of Brazilian edible fruits using data recovered from the book "Dicionário das plantas úteis do Brasil e das exóticas cultivadas" (Dictionary of Useful Plants of Brazil and Exotic Cultivated), organized by the Portuguese botanist Manoel Pio Corrêa (1874-1934), in 1926. Data from 504 species were recorded from the book and several have attractive and/or sensorial characteristics, as tasty and sweet, that can contribute to stimulating their direct consumption. Only 25% of the recorded fruits have their health benefits determined in studies of bioactivity. A ranking (Priority Index = PI) was constructed in order to know the most promising fruits. Anacardium occidentale , Passiflora edulis and Acrocomia aculeata reached a higher PI. Among the families, Orchidaceae, Verbenaceae, Anacardiaceae and Caryocaraceae have a higher proportion of fruits with higher PI. Besides the health benefits, the market and management of these plants can contribute to biodiversity conservation and improve the income of local populations. Graphical abstract Examples of native fruits from Brazil. Unlabelled Image Highlights • Brazilian flora is rich in edible fruits but traditional knowledge about them is being lost. • Historical references are rich source for information on underutilized Brazilian plants. • A rank with the most promising Brazilian edible fruits was constructed. • Many recorded fruits have various bioactive components. • The better used of Brazilian fruits can contribute for conservation of biodiversity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract The genus Pistacia (Anacardiaceae family) is represented by several species, of which only P. vera L. produces edible seeds (pistachio). Despite the different flavor and taste, a correct identification of pistachio varieties based on the sole phenotypic character is sometimes hard to achieve. Here we used a combination of chemical partitioning and molecular fingerprinting for the unequivocal identification of commercial pistachio seed varieties (Bronte, Kern, Kerman, Larnaka, Mateur and Mawardi) of different geographical origin. The total phenolic content was higher in the variety Bronte followed by Larnaka and Mawardi cultivars. The total anthocyanin content was higher in Bronte and Larnaka varieties, whereas the total proanthocyanidin content was higher in Bronte, followed by Mawardi and Larnaka varieties. HPLC-DAD-ESI-MS/MS analyses revealed significant (P < 0.05) higher amounts of cyanidin-3-glucoside, idein, eryodictol-7-galactoside, quercetin-3-glucoside, luteolin-glucoside and marein in the variety Bronte, whereas higher amounts of peonidin-3-glucoside, okanin 4′-galactoside, hyperoside and quercetin-4′-glucoside were found in the variety Larnaka. The highest content of catechin was found in the Mawardi variety. A significantly (P < 0.05) higher total amount of fatty acids was found in the varieties Mateur, Kern and Bronte, followed by the varieties Larnaka and Mawardi, whereas the variety Kerman showed the lowest total fatty acid content. GC-FID and GC-MS analyses revealed the presence of several polyunsaturated fatty acids. Kern and Mateur varieties showed a significantly (P < 0.05) higher amount of linoleic acid, whereas the variety Bronte showed the highest amount of oleic acid. Molecular fingerprinting was achieved by ITS DNA PCR-RFLP analysis. Three different restriction enzymes (Rsa I, TaqαI and Pst I) were used to selectively cleave the resulting amplicons. A TaqαI site could be selectively found in the varieties Kerman, Larnaka and Mateur, whereas the digestion of the PCR products by Rsa I gave specific patters exclusively on Bronte and Mawardi. Digestion by Pst I gave specific patters exclusively on the Kern variety. The results showed that the Mediterranean varieties (Mateur, Bronte and Larnaka) show similar chemical patterns and (particularly for Mateur and Larnaka) a close phylogenetic relationship, allowing a chemical and molecular partitioning with respect to the other varieties. Graphical abstract Phenolic compounds, fatty acids and ITS DNA-fingerprinting successfully discriminate pistachio varieties of different geographical origin. Image 1 Highlights • Pistacia vera varieties show quantitative and qualitative differences in phenolic compounds. • Fatty acid compositions reveal similar quality and differential content in P. vera varieties. • The chemical partitioning of P. vera allows the discrimination of the geographical origin. • Identification of sites of PCR-RFLP in the DNA genome allows P. vera DNA fingerprinting. • Biomolecular and chemical data discriminate P. vera varieties of different geographical origin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • Pollen spectrum more than geographical origin distinguishes Mozambiquean honey. • Vegetation and apicultural practices influence in the characteristics of these honeys. • According to the similar pollen spectrum, eight groups of types of honey were found. • High HMF, moisture and smoke compounds are consequence of apicultural practices. Abstract Honey from different provinces of North and Central Mozambique was characterised considering their physicochemical quality parameters, colour, sugars, total antioxidants, pollen analysis and volatile profile. Flora that surrounds the hives, and the apicultural practices also influence in their characteristics. According to a similar pollen spectrum, eight types of honey were found. In these, the predominant pollens were: I-Astragalus type; II- Acanthus sp; III-Celastraceae; IV-Brassicaceae; V-Anacardiaceae and Astragalus type; VI-Astragalus type and Myrtaceae; VII-Asteraceae family and VIII-unknown. Group I (from Nampula), especially distanced itself from the others mainly due to the special abundance of certain compounds (alcohols, aldehydes, esters, acids and terpenes). The presence of furan compounds largely identified in Sofala and Manica honeys could be due to inadequate beekeeping practices or storage conditions. A discriminant analysis correctly classified 96.7% of the groups, being electrical conductivity and moisture followed by the volatile-compound 3-Methylbutan-1-ol and the free acidity, the variables that most contributed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Rhus asymmetrica sp. nov. from the lower Oligocene of Cervera (Catalonia, Spain) is characterized by a trifoliate leaf with a symmetric sessile apical leaflet and asymmetric lateral leaflets. The apical leaflet displays a serrate margin and decurrent base with pinnate primary venation, craspedodromous secondary venation and an irregular reticulate tertiary framework. The lateral leaflets show a rounded base with a secondary basal vein in the distal part of the lamina, while the proximal part is straight or concave. Formerly, these specimens were accommodated within Rhus pyrrhae Unger. However, detailed study of the R. pyrrhae holotype has led us to emend its diagnosis to include its brochidodromous secondary venation pattern, which differs clearly from the venation pattern of the new species. Additionally, a number of leaf morphotypes from the Cervera palaeobotanical site that were erroneously attributed to Rhus by former authors have been segregated and related to Acer and Toxicodendron. The extant species R. aromatica displays the closest foliar structure to R. asymmetrica sp. nov. However, differences in the leaf morphology suggest that the new species grew under distinct palaeoclimatic conditions: (1) R. asymmetrica sp. nov. bears glands at the tips of the teeth of the lateral leaflets while R. aromatica is devoid of these glands. This character would help to prevent excessive evapotranspiration; (2) lateral leaflets of R. asymmetrica sp. nov. are asymmetric while in R. aromatica they are symmetric, suggesting that R. asymmetrica sp. nov. grew under a greater environmental stress than R. aromatica ; (3) R. asymmetrica sp. nov. displays fewer teeth with a larger tooth-area than R. aromatica. This would indicate growth under a warm climate with low seasonal contrast. These features are compatible with an open woodland habitat under subtropical palaeoclimatic conditions. Highlights • Rhus asymmetrica sp. nov. from the Oligocene of the Iberian Peninsula is described. • Living North American R. aromatica displays the leaf closest to R. asymmetrica. • Differences in leaf characters of R. asymmetrica and its NLR are climate-sensitive. • Glands in lateral leaflets teeth of R. asymmetrica point out to water stress. • R. asymmetrica shows few and large teeth as a response to warm and arid climate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlightss • Corrosion inhibition of mild steel in HCl solution by a green inhibitor was studied. • EIS results proved increased inhibition efficiency with increasing inhibitor concentration. • The inhibitor suppressed both anodic and cathodic reactions on the steel surface. • MD and MC simulations demonstrated inhibitors adsorption through active sites. Abstract The mild steel corrosion inhibition in 1 M HCl solution containing Mangifera indica (mango) (M. indica) leaves extract was examined by electrochemical and surface studies. The presence of many active components with aromatic and oxygen containing functional groups in the extract of M. indica was shown by transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) and ultraviolet-visible spectrophotometry (UV–Vis). Results revealed that with increasing inhibitor concentration and immersion time the inhibition efficiency increased and reached the maximum value of 92% after 24 h in the presence of 1000 ppm inhibitor. It was shown that in the presence of M. indica extract both iron anodic dissolution rate and cathodic hydrogen evolution reaction rate efficiently decreased reflecting a mixed inhibition action. The inhibitor adsorption on mild steel followed a Langmuir isotherm. Surface studies revealed the inhibitor film formation on the iron surface resulting in the surface damage decline and increase of hydrophobicity. Also, the theoretical results confirmed the inhibitor adsorption on the steel surface through its reactive sites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Anacardic acids (AnAs) of dried pistachio shells were extracted and investigated. • A green extraction procedure from agrifood waste was applied. • Epoxidation and tandem MS analysis were used to distinguish positional isomers of AnAs. • Epoxidated and native AnAs were separated using a C30 column. • The procedure is informative, simple, and effective and can be extended to other samples. Anacardic acids (AnAs) are important secondary metabolites that occur primarily in plants of the Anacardiaceae family, such as pistachio (Pistacia vera L.). Some AnAs have been associated with health benefits, and the position of the C C double bonds is a crucial feature of these metabolites. Herein, we propose a new strategy based on RPLC separation and detection by ESI-MS/MS, preceded by an epoxidation reaction. The procedure was applied to the green extracts of lignified pistachio shells, and a mixture of AnAs bearing alkyl chains 13:0, 15:0, and 17:1 emerged as prevailing. As positional isomers of AnA 15:1 (Δ8 and Δ6) and AnAs 17:1 (Δ10 and Δ8) were identified for the first time, their discovery paves the way to the systematic study of their potential health-beneficial effects. The developed method was validated and applied to quantify AnAs in pistachio ethanolic extract, showing contents higher than 10 mg/ 100 g of biomass. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

La baie rose ou « poivre rose » est une épice produite par le Schinus terebinthifolius , un arbuste de la famille des Anacardiacées qui est utilisée dans les préparations culinaires. Nous rapportons le cas d'un patient âgé de 18 ans aux antécédents d'allergie à la noix de cajou ayant présenté plusieurs réactions avec un poivre 5 baies contenant des baies roses. Il existe des réactivités croisées au sein de la famille des Anacardiacées dont font partie la noix de cajou, la pistache, la mangue et les baies roses. Ceci est expliqué par une similitude de structure entre ces différentes protéines notamment les protéines de la noix de cajou et la pistache : Ana o 1/Pis v 3, Ana o 2/Pis v 2 et Ana o 3/Pis v 1. Dans la littérature, des réactions ont également été rapportées entre la noix de cajou et les autres fruits à coque, l'arachide, le sumac, les agrumes, les fruits (mangue, kiwi, fruit du dragon, pomme de cajou). Ces réactivités croisées doivent être systématiquement recherchées à l'interrogatoire afin d'éviter de nouvelles anaphylaxies. Pink peppercorn is a spice produced by Schinus terebinthifolius , a shrub of the Anacardiaceae family which is used in culinary preparations. We report the case of an 18-year-old patient with a history of cashew nut allergy who presented several reactions with a 5-berry pepper containing pink peppercorns. There are cross-reactivities within the Anacardiaceae family, which includes cashew nuts, pistachios, mangoes and pink peppercorns. This is explained by a structural similarity between these different proteins, especially the cashew nut and pistachio proteins: Ana o 1/Pis v 3, Ana o 2/Pis v 2 and Ana o 3/Pis v 1. In literature reactions have also been reported between cashew and other tree nuts, peanuts, sumac, citrus fruits, fruits (mango, kiwi, red pitaya, cashew apple). These cross-reactivities must be systematically looked for when questioning to avoid further anaphylaxis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract The Anacardiaceae is a well-recognized family consists of an economically important nut and fruit crops. In this family, the studies on both anther wall and pollen development are very limited. The present paper describes a comparative study on the development of both anther wall and pollen of male and hermaphrodite flower buds of Mangifera indica L. var. Beneshan by combining light (LM), fluorescence (FM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Moreover, a description of the anatomy of the sterile staminodes of male flower buds also provided. Our study showed that the (1) anther wall contains two cell thick middle layers, (2) the presence of a secretory type tapetum, (3) tapetum cells contain large and uninucleate nucleus, (4) the presence of simultaneous cytokinesis (5) haploid microspores arranged in tetrahedral tetrads (6) the pollen grains shed at two-celled stage, (7) druse type calcium oxalate (CaOx) crystals were found in idioblast cells of anther connective tissue (8) both the anther wall and pollen developmental events in male and hermaphrodite flowers were found to be similar and (9) staminodes have failed to differentiate and form pollen grains. Overall, the study confirms the placement of M. indica in the tribe Anacardieae of Anacardiaceae and also provides information on correlation of the microspore development stage with flower bud and anther developmental stage for the establishment of in vitro culture for the production of doubled haploids in mango. Highlights • Anther wall and pollen development was described in mango. • The presence of secretory type tapetum, simultaneous cytokinesis and tetrahedral arrangement of microspores observed. • Presence of druse type calcium oxalate crystals also observed in connective tissue. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphical abstract Highlights • Four new fossil leaves are recovered from the early Eocene (Gurha Lignite Mine) of northwestern India. • They show affinities with Anacardiaceae, Malvaceae, Myrtaceae and Rubiaceae. • These fossil records provide strong evidence of humid tropical and paratropical evergreen forest with monsoon seasonality. Abstract Today the existence of tropical rainforests in the Indian subcontinent is restricted to the fringes of the Western Ghats, greater Assam region and some small places in Odisha. However, the palaeovegetation reconstruction in this study illustrates the existence of equatorial tropical forest in northwestern India (Bikaner, Rajasthan) during the early Eocene. Fossil leaves, described here, were collected from the Gurha lignite mine of Bikaner and showed affinities with Holigarna grahamii (Anacardiaceae), Pterygota alata (Malvaceae), Syzygium spp. (S. fruticosum and S. cumini) (Myrtaceae), and Gardenia spp. (G. lucida and G. gummiefra) (Rubiaceae). Contrary to the present-day dry and desertic conditions, the fossil records provide strong evidence of humid tropical and paratropical evergreen forest with monsoon seasonality existing in and around the study area during the depositional period. Any shift in climatic conditions has drastic effects on the vegetation cover of a region in time and space. This drastic change in climate has led to the extinction of tropical rain forest from this region. This might be due to the northward movement of the Indian subcontinent (away from the equator), formation of the Himalayas and monsoon or changes in monsoon pattern. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to compare the chemistry of plant volatile compounds (VCs) of the unripe and ripe fruit of Schinus terebinthifolia Raddi by gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC–MS). The yield, density, qualitative and quantitative composition, chemical diversity and equitability of the samples were compared. Both essential oils had residual traces of sesquiterpenoids and are mainly composed of monoterpenes which represent 80.65% of the total compounds identified for unripe fruits oil and 81.36% for ripe oil. The predominant substances of the VCs of the ripe fruits were δ-3-carene (46.67%) and α-pinene (14.98%), whereas the major compounds of that of the unripe fruit were limonene (37.49%) and δ-3-carene (19.98%). Only 13 of the 98 substances studied were common to both samples. The yield of essential oil from the fruit of S. terebinthifolia as the raw material for extraction, ripe fruit were twice more productive than the unripe fruit ones. In the ripe fruit, δ-3 carene and α-pinene are possible chemical markers of this species, while limonene can be used as a substance characteristic for unripe fruit. The results suggest differences in chemical composition between the ripe and unripe fruit of S. terebinthifolia according to its ripening stage and raise subsidies for a plant of natural extractivism of Brazilian Pepper. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction Mastic ( Pistacia lentiscus ) oleoresin (MO is used by traditional Baluch healers to precipitate wound healing and relieve episiotomy pain. Objective(s) To investigate the effects of MO on wound healing and episiotomy pain intensity in nulliparous Baluch women. Materials and methods This study had a mixed methods design. In the qualitative phase, we interviewed 9 traditional healers and 13 women to understand how the indigenous people use MO for wound healing. In the quantitative phase, a randomized controlled trial was performed on primiparous women during July 23-November 22 in 2016. One hundred and forty-seven women were randomly assigned to intervention (n=73) and control (n=74) groups. At 48 h postpartum, 15 g of MO was provided to the women to be administered for three days (through smoking the episiotomy wound). Pain and wound healing were measured at 3, 7, and 10 days postpartum using the visual analogue scale and REEDA scale, respectively. Results MO had no significant effect on episiotomy pain intensity at 3, 7, and 10 days postpartum ( p= 0.61 , p= 0.76, and p=0.45 , respectively). In addition, healing rates of the episiotomy wounds treated by MO (mean: 0.11±0.45, 0.15±0.51, and 0.15±0.57, respectively) were higher than those in the control group (mean: 0.21±0.70, 0.16±0.63, and 0.49±0.28, respectively) at 3, 7, and 10 days postpartum; however, the difference between the two groups was not significant ( p= 0.27 , p= 0.76 , and p =0.23, respectively). Conclusion In the current study, healing rates in the MO group were higher than those in the control group; however, further studies should be undertaken to identify the effects of MO. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current study aims at the molecular characterization of Pistacia atlantica Desf. Subsp atlantica in Northwestern Algeria. The genome size estimation was performed for the first time for the species using flow cytometry on 97 samples. The flow cytometry analysis led to estimate a very small genome (2C = 1.21 ± 0.02 pg). Meristematic somatic cells of male floral buds showed the best prometaphase which on (2 n = 2x = 30) chromosome complement was observed. Two chromosomes bearing satellites showed evident and large secondary constrictions. sixty-one genotypes were characterized using 6 SSR microsatellites. A total of 26 alleles were amplified. Allele frequencies ranged from 0.008 to 0.68. Eight rare alleles (30.8%) were observed. The observed heterozygosity (Ho) ranged from 0.35 to 0.67, while the expected heterozygosity (He) ranged from 0.48 to 0.77. The loci Pislen 526 and Pislen 114 were the most polymorphic with 7 and 6 observed alleles respectively. Pislen 526 and PKATG014 were the most informative markers. Cluster analysis based on the euclidean distance using (UPGMA) led to observe divergences between genotypes within site and between sites. The current study is the first molecular characterization of the subspecies; it indicated an evident diversity due to a genetic flow between populations. More genetic diversity studies are required to learn about the structure and the evolution of natural P. atlantica subsp. atlantica using more SSR markers and more accessions from other areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In higher plants, complex type N -glycans contain characteristic carbohydrate moieties that are not found in mammals. In particular, the attachment of the Lewis a (Le a ) epitope is currently the only known outer chain elongation that is present in plant N -glycans. Such a modification is of great interest in terms of the biological function of complex type N -glycans in plant species. However, little is known regarding the exact molecular basis underlying their Le a expression. In the present study, we cloned two novel Lewis type fucosyltransferases ( MiFUT13 ) from mango fruit, Mangifera indica L., heterologously expressed the proteins and structurally and functionally characterized them. Using an HPLC-based assay, we demonstrated that the recombinant MiFUT13 proteins mediate the α1,4-fucosylation of acceptor tetrasaccharides with a strict preference for type I-based structure to type II. The results and other findings suggest that MiFUT13s are involved in the biosynthesis of Le a containing glycoconjugates in mango fruits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The GC–MS fingerprint of mango active volatile compounds was established by headspace solid phase microextraction (SPE) coupled with gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC–MS). The active molecules were screened to explore the mechanism of their influence on the structure of the carrier proteins and elucidate the binding mechanism between the transporter and mango active molecules. [Display omitted] • Establish the fingerprint of mango active volatile compounds and carrier proteins. • To elucidate the effect of mango active molecules on carrier proteins. • The binding model of active small molecules and carrier proteins was constructed. • The results provided an idea for the research of flavored dairy products. The effects of mango active volatile components (VOCs) on protein function were investigated from the perspective of nutrient transport. The active volatile components of five varieties of mango were analyzed by headspace solid phase microextraction gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (HS-SPME/GC–MS). The interaction mechanism between active volatile components and three carrier proteins was discussed by fluorescence spectroscopy, molecular docking and dynamic simulation. The results showed that there were 7 active components in the five mango varieties. The aroma components represented by 1-caryophyllene and β-pinene were selected for further study. The interaction between VOCs small molecules and proteins is a static binding process, and its main force is hydrophobic interaction. The results of molecular simulation and spectral experiments showed that the binding ability of 1-caryophyllene and β-pinene to β-Lg was strong, so mango VOCs could possess a certain nutritional value in dairy products, expanding its application in dairy products in the food industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives Several polyphenols from renewable sources were surveyed for dentin biomodification. However, phenols from cashew nut shell liquid (CNSL, Anacardium occidentale) and from Aroeira ( Myracrodruon urundeuva ) extract have never been evaluated. The present investigation aimed to compare the dentin collagen crosslinking (biomodification) effectiveness of polyphenols from Aroeira stem bark extract, proanthocyanidins (PACs) from grape-seed extract ( Vitis vinifera ), cardol and cardanol from CNSL after clinically relevant treatment for one minute. Methods Three-point bending test was used to obtain the elastic modulus of fully demineralized dentin beams before and after biomodification, whilst color change and mass variation were evaluated after four weeks water biodegradation. Color aspect was assessed by optical images after biodegradation whereas collagen cross-linking was investigated by micro-Raman spectroscopy. Statistical analysis was performed with repeated-measures two way ANOVA and Tukey’s test (p < 0.05). Results The increase in elastic modulus after biomodification was in the order cardol > cardanol > aroeira = PACs with cardol solution achieving mean 338.2% increase. The mass increase after biomodification followed the same order aforementioned. Nevertheless, after four weeks aging, more hydrophobic agent (cardanol) induced the highest resistance against water biodegradation. Aroeira and cardol attained intermediate outcomes whereas PACs provided the lower resistance. Tannin-based agents (Aroeira and PACs) stained the specimens in dark brown color. No color alteration was observed with cardol and cardanol treatments. All four agents achieved crosslinking in micro-Raman after one minute application. Significance In conclusion, major components of CNSL yield overall best dentin biomodification outcomes when applied for one minute without staining the dentin collagen. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The activity levels of naturally occurring radionuclides Polonium-210 and lead-210 in different subjects including plant species have direct or indirect impact on human beings. High levels of ionising radiation cause oxidative stress and the interaction between antioxidative defense and radionuclides is not well established in plant systems. In this study, we aimed to understand the impact of oxidative stress caused by 210 Po and 210 Pb in two Mediterranean plants; Quercus coccifera and Pistacia lentiscus . We analysed the constitutive and seasonal levels of 210 Po, 210 Pb, lipid peroxidation levels, superoxide dismutase (SOD) and ascorbate peroxidase (APX) activities in the field-collected samples. The highest activity concentrations of 210 Po and 210 Pb were detected in both plants in summer and Q. coccifera had higher levels than that of P. lentiscus . SOD and APX activity trends were different between oak and mastic; as compared to P. lentiscus , Q. coccifera efficiently used the two major components of antioxidative defense. Lipid peroxidation levels were low in both plants in all seasons except that of spring which were in good agreement with high antioxidant enzyme activities. In conclusion, we found that high 210 Po and 210 Pb activity concentrations in oak and mastic did not interfere with their growth and life cycles. The ability of both plants for survival and adaptation to Mediterranean environmental constraints provided an additional advantage for coping radionuclide induced oxidative stress as well. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Caatinga biome, characterized by a species-rich seasonally dry tropical forest, but highly disturbed covers most of Brazil's Northeast. Endemic to this biome is the multipurpose tree Spondias tuberosa Arr., which forms numerous root tubers to resist drought stress. In order to develop improved soil management for reforestation with S. tuberosa the response of its root system to different soil amendments was studied with 52 seedlings, using goat manure, clay substrate, biochar as soil amendments, and mineral fertilizer. The default root architecture of three-year-old S. tuberosa and the relation between soil physical parameters and fine root dry matter (≤2 mm), root length density, root tuber volume, root tuber fresh weight, and shoot-root ratio were analyzed. Seedlings still formed a tap root with a maximum rooting depth of 63 cm and a maximum horizontal extent of 35 cm, developing 2–4 root tubers per seedling. Fine root dry matter in 3000 cm 3 soil samples differed significantly, ranging from 0.23 g in the control to 0.03 g in the treatment combining manure with biochar and mineral fertilizer. According to the orthogonal contrast, manure was the pivotal soil amendment affecting fine root dry matter negatively. Simultaneously, manure application led to increased soil water content compared to treatments without . The shoot-root ratio increased by 32% compared to the control, when S. tuberosa was grown in wet soils. Root tuber growth was significantly enhanced by manure addition. This effect is attributed to a reduction of soil bulk density as root tuber volume exhibited a negative correlation with soil bulk density. There was no statistical relationship between root tuber volume and seedling survival during the field experiment. Compared with the control, neither clay, biochar nor solely mineral fertilization significantly affected root growth. Soil management focused on improving water availability is suspected of hampering fine root growth of S. tuberosa seedlings, whereas reducing soil bulk density enables better root tuber development and could, therefore, be a promising measure to increase S. tuberosa drought resistance in the long term for more successful reforestation. Disregarding its negative impact on fine root growth, we assume manure is the most promising amendment among the tested treatments, due to its positive effect on root tuber growth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two new neolignans, named rebaneolignan A ( 1 ) and B ( 2 ), were isolated from the stem of Mangifera reba (Anacardiaceae), together with six known compounds ( 3 – 8 ). Their structures were elucidated on the basis of NMR spectroscopic analysis and the absolute configurations of 1 and 2 were determined by NOESY and CD data. All isolated compounds were found to possess more potent inhibitory activity, with IC 50 values ranging from 28.5 to 162.8 µM, than the positive control acarbose (IC 50 , 214.5 µM). Plausible biosynthetic pathways for the formation of 1 and 2 were proposed based on the oxidative β-5′ coupling reactions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Uniqueness and diversity of mango flavour across various cultivars are well known. Among various flavour metabolites lactones form an important class of aroma volatiles in certain mango varieties due to their ripening specific appearance and lower odour detection threshold. In spite of their biological and biochemical importance, lactone biosynthetic pathway in plants remains elusive. Present study encompasses quantitative real-time analysis of 9-lipoxygenase ( Mi9LOX ), epoxide hydrolase 2 ( MiEH2 ), peroxygenase , hydroperoxide lyase and acyl-CoA-oxidase genes during various developmental and ripening stages in fruit of Alphonso, Pairi and Kent cultivars with high, low and no lactone content and explains their variable lactone content. Study also covers isolation, recombinant protein characterization and transient over-expression of Mi9LOX and MiEH2 genes in mango fruits. Recombinant Mi 9LOX utilized linoleic and linolenic acids, while Mi EH2 utilized aromatic and fatty acid epoxides as their respective substrates depicting their role in fatty acid metabolism. Significant increase in concentration of δ-valerolactone and δ-decalactone upon Mi9LOX over-expression and that of δ-valerolactone, γ-hexalactone and δ-hexalactone upon MiEH2 over-expression further suggested probable involvement of these genes in lactone biosynthesis in mango. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cancer is now the second-leading cause of mortality and morbidity, behind only heart disease, necessitating urgent development of (chemo)therapeutic interventions to stem the growing burden of cancer cases and cancer death. Plants represent a credible source of promising drug leads in this regard, with a long history of proven use in the indigenous treatment of cancer. This study therefore investigated Anacardium occidentale , one of the plants in a Nigerian Traditional Medicine formulation commonly used to manage cancerous diseases, for cytotoxic activity. Bioassay-guided fractionation, spectroscopy, Alamar blue fluorescence-based viability assay in cultured HeLa cells and microscopy were used. Four compounds, zoapatanolide A ( 1 ), agathisflavone ( 2 ), 1,2-bis(2,6-dimethoxy-4-methoxycarbonylphenyl)ethane (anacardicin, 3 ) and methyl gallate ( 4 ), were isolated, with the most potent being zoapatanolide A with an IC 50 value of 36.2 ± 9.8 µM in the viability assay. To gain an insight into the likely molecular basis of their observed cytotoxic effects, Autodock Vina binding free energies of each of the isolated compounds with seven molecular targets implicated in cancer development (MAPK8, MAPK10, MAP3K12, MAPK3, MAPK1, MAPK7 and VEGF), were calculated. Pearson correlation coefficients were obtained with experimentally-determined IC 50 in the Alamar blue viability assay. While these compounds were not as potent as a standard anticancer compound, doxorubicin, the results provide reasonable evidence that the plant species contains compounds with cytotoxic activity. This study provides some evidence of why this plant is used ethnobotanically in anticancer herbal formulations and justifies investigating Nigerian medicinal plants highlighted in recent ethnobotanical surveys. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Some species of the Botryosphaeriaceae are capable of infecting a broad range of host plants. We studied the species diversity of Botryosphaeriaceae associated with marula ( Sclerocarya birrea subsp. caffra , Anacardiaceae ) trees in South Africa over two seasons, as well as species common to both S. birrea and adjacent mango ( Mangifera indica , Anacardiaceae ) trees in a subset of sites. Gene flow amongst populations of Botryosphaeriaceae shared on these tree species was tested using microsatellite markers. Twelve species were identified from S. birrea and eleven species were found on M. indica trees. From isolations done in 2006, the dominant species on S. birrea was Neofusicoccum vitifusiforme , while N. parvum was the dominant species isolated from M. indica . Neofusicoccum parvum was dominant in isolations from both hosts in 2012. Isolates of Botryosphaeria fabicerciana , Lasiodiplodia mahajangana , L. pseudotheobromae , L. theobromae , N. mediterraneum , and N. umdonicola were also collected from both hosts. Population genetic analyses on isolates of N. parvum suggested that three populations were present, each comprising isolates from both hosts. There was significant gene flow between N. parvum populations on these hosts. This ability to infect multiple hosts and to migrate amongst them facilitates the establishment and spread of species and genotypes of the Botryosphaeriaceae , such as N. parvum , in new areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Eight compounds were isolated from the stem bark of Antrocaryon klaineanum , and their structures determined by chemical and spectroscopic methods. Among these compounds, the ergostane-type antrocarine E ( 1a ) is a new compound, although the structure had already been published by mismatching the spectroscopic data with those of 2 . In this paper, we are reporting the valid spectroscopic values for antrocarine E and X-ray diffraction results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The volatile fractions and essential oils from Rhus coriaria fruits collected in four locations in Sicily (Italy) were characterized by GC–FID and GC–MS analysis. Monoterpenes were identified as the main class of constituents in volatiles spontaneously emitted by sumac fruits collected in two of the four sites (42.1–59.9% in ‘CNS’ and ‘CIN’ respectively), while non terpenic compounds predominated in the other two (46.1–52.8% in ‘MR’ and ‘CG’, respectively). The EO composition were characterized by high amount of non terpenic compounds (from 27.5 to 55.1%), followed by sesquiterpenes and diterpenes. p -anisaldehyde was the main constituent both in volatiles emitted by ‘CG’ sample and in its essential oil (28.4 and 20.8%, respectively). The comparison between the EOs obtained from the Sicilian samples differed from the EO obtained from sumac fruits purchased on the Jordanian market, even though a similar composition were evidenced with Turkish samples reported in the literature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High performance liquid chromatography coupled with electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (HPLC-ESI–MS) was used for the identification of the major phenolic compounds in mature P. atlantica fruits from the Guelmim region (southeast of Morocco). In this study twenty seven polyphenolic compounds are identified and quantitated. To date, this is the most comprehensive report on the polyphenolic content of Pistacia fruits. The profiles comprise, three major polyphenolic classes, namely gallates (18.76 g/kg; 63.92%), flavonoids (10.12 g/kg; 34.48%) and ellagic acid derivatives (0.47 g/kg; 1.60%) with a total of 29.35 g/kg detected. The major gallate was pentagalloyl glucoside (5.0 g/kg; 17.04% of total polyphenolics), the major flavonoid luteolin (3.18 g/kg; 10.83% of total polyphenolics) and the major ellagic acid derivative ellagic acid (0.25 g/kg; 0.85% of total polyphenolics). Identification of galloyl quinate, digalloyl quinates (x 2), galloyl glucoside, digalloyl glucosides (x 2), trigalloyl glucoside, tetragalloyl glucosides (x 2), pentagalloyl glucoside, 2″- O -galloyl-quercetin-3- O -galactoside, quercetin-3- O -rhamnogalactoside, quercetin-3- O -galactoside, ellagic acid diglucoside, luteolin-4′- O -glucoside, 2″- O -galloyl-luteolin-4′- O -glucoside, quercetin-3- O -glucuronide, kaempferol-3- O -glucoside, eriodictyol, apigenin, ellagic acid diglucoside, ellagic acid glucoside, methyl ellagic acid glucoside, and ellagic acid are described as phytochemical components of Pistacia fruits for the first time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Searsia chirindensis ( SC ) (Baker F.) (Anacardiaceae) has shown potential for the treatment of many neurological diseases however its effect on other bodily systems in neurotoxic models is not well-documented. In this study we investigated the effects of SC on blood glucose homeostasis, as well as its effect on liver and kidney function by assessing lipid peroxidation using the TBARS assay and measuring plasma and urinary electrolyte concentrations in a 6-hydroxydopamine parkinsonian model. The relative levels of phytochemicals were also quantified, along with testing free radical scavenging activity via the DPPH assay. Our results showed that SC decreases blood glucose levels but did not alter the liver and kidney function as reflected by the absence of electrolyte imbalances and lipid peroxidation damage. We also found that SC comprises primarily phenolic acids (945.73 ± 154.01 mg GA/g SC ) and triterpenoids (1997.21 ± 404.04 mg OA/g SC ) with minimal flavonoid content (12.98 ± 2.75 mg Q/g SC ) and exhibited strong free radical scavenging activity (≈ 80%). In conclusion, these results suggest that SC does not alter the renal and liver function at least in the different parameters studied. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lannea acida A. Rich. is a native plant of West Africa used in traditional medicine against diarrhea, dysentery, rheumatism, and women infertility. Eleven compounds were isolated from the dichloromethane root bark extract using various chromatographic techniques. Among those, nine compounds have not been previously reported, i.e. one cardanol derivative, two alkenyl 5-hydroxycyclohex-2-en-1-ones, three alkenyl cyclohex-4-ene-1,3-diols, two alkenyl 7-oxabicyclo[4.1.0]hept-4-en-3-ols, and one alkenyl 4,5-dihydroxycyclohex-2-en-1-one, together with two known cardanols. The structure of the compounds was elucidated using NMR, HRESIMS, ECD, IR, and UV. Their antiproliferative activity was evaluated in three multiple myeloma cell lines: RPMI 8226, MM.1S, and MM.1R. Two compounds showed activity in all cell lines with IC 50 values < 5 μM. Further investigations are needed to understand the mechanism of action. Nine previously undescribed compounds together with two known cardanols were isolated from the root bark extract of Lannea acida. Their antiproliferative activity was evaluated against three multiple myeloma cell lines. [Display omitted] • Nine undescribed compounds were isolated from the root bark of Lannea acida. • The compounds were characterized using HRESIMS, NMR, UV and IR spectroscopy. • The stereochemistry was determined by ECD. • The antiproliferative activity was evaluated on three multiple myeloma cell lines. • Two compounds displayed IC 50 values below 5 μM in the three cell lines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Medicinal plants are the mainstay of various chemical constituents responsible for curing or mitigating different pathological and non-pathological health issues. In this regard, the current research work was subjected to finding the best effective, new and safe leishmanicidal molecules. Pistacia integerrima is an important medicinal plant growing in Asia with various ethnopharmacological uses such as skin, respiratory and hepatic disorders. The folklore of this plant in skin problems encouraged us to evaluate the isolated compounds for leishmanicidal activity. In the current study, whole ethyl acetate extract was subjected to chromatographic analysis affording two flavonoid constituents, namely naringenin (1) and 3,5,4′-trihydroxy-7-methoxy-flavanone (2). The extract and isolated constituents were tested for leishmanicidal activity. Both compounds were docked into the target binding site (PDB ID: 5HJ9) using MOE 2016. Arginase was taken as the targeted enzyme which is an important enzyme for leishmania species' survival. Arginase up-regulates amastin that impacts amastigote replication and survival. This approach aimed to explore the binding modes of the two isolated flavonoids and to predict their inhibitory activity against arginase. The two flavonoid compounds isolated from P. integerrima were evaluated for their anti-leishmanial activity. Compounds 1 and 2 were tested at a concentration of 5 µg/mL against the selected Leishmanial species. The percent inhibition was 70.43 and 74.76 regarding compounds 1 and 2 , respectively with IC 50 of 29.43 and 16.43 μM. The reference standard drug used, amphotericin-B, displayed the highest leishmanicidal effect (IC 50 of 0.22 μM) with 84.09 % inhibition at half concentration compared to compounds 1 and 2. The molecular docking studies of these two compounds and the standard drug were performed in MOE software. According to the findings, compound 1 , naringenin, docked well in the binding site, with a docking score of −9.28 followed by compound 2 , 3,5,4′-trihydroxy-7-methoxy-flavanone with a docking score of −8.37. Both of the tested samples demonstrated excellent leishmanicidal effects. This pharmacological inhibitory profile provides a strong scientific profile to the folklore of Pistacia integerrima in the treatment of skin disorders especially leishmanial. A further mechanistic study is recommended to find the extract target responsible for the said activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sumac [ Rhus coriaria L. (Anacardiaceae)] is a widely used spice in the Middle East. In this study, the hepatoprotective effects of sumac fruit were evaluated using a rat model of paracetamol-induced liver injury. The experimental design relies on the pretreatment of rats with intraperitoneal sumac extract followed by a toxic dose of paracetamol. Tissue alterations, serum levels of oxidative stress markers, as well as gene expression of immunomarkers were evaluated. Rats pre-treated with sumac displayed attenuated signs of toxicity. Upon paracetamol intoxication, sumac-pretreated animals showed a minimal increase in liver enzyme levels. In parallel, serum albumin and total protein levels were close to normal. Moreover, pretreated sumac animals had preserved hepatocyte morphology, whereas unprotected animals had necrotic deformations. Importantly, these effects were dose-dependent and comparable to the silymarin-treated positive control group. In conclusion, sumac extract offers a potential hepatoprotective regimen against xenobiotic-induced hepatotoxicity and for oxidative stress management. • The hepatoprotective effects of sumac fruit were evaluated. • A rat model of paracetamol-induced liver injury was used. • Rats pre-treated with sumac extract displayed attenuated signs of toxicity. • Serum albumin and total protein levels were near-normal in sumac-treated animals. • Normal hepatocyte morphology was preserved in sumac-pretreated animals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]