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[Display omitted] • Mela Rosa Marchigiana pulp callus extract (MRME) reduces inflammatory response. • MRME can contrast senescence or High Glucose-induced inflammation. • In High Glucose- and LPS-induced inflammation, MRME reduces U937 mitochondrial respiration. • MRME modulates digestive enzymes that can help decreasing the absorption of glucose and triglycerides. The anti-inflammatory activity of the "Mela Rosa Marchigiana" (MRM) pulp callus ethanol Extract (MRME) was tested in different cellular models including (i) LPS-treated RAW 264.7; (ii) HUVEC exposed to short-term high Glucose (HG, 45 mM) or normal glucose (NG, 5 mM) concentrations; and (iii) HG (30 mN) and LPS-treated U937. To evaluate the anti-inflammatory effect of the extract, Nitric Oxide (NO) production was measured in RAW 264.6 cells, while IL-8, IL-1ß and MCP-1 expressions, along with modulation of some inflammation- or senescence-associated miRNAs (miR-21, miR-126, miR-17 and miR-217) were assessed in HUVECs and/or U937. MRME treatment reduced pro-inflammatory markers amount, suggesting a decreased generalised inflammatory response. Present findings indicate that MRME can contrast senescence- or HG-induced inflammation. Moreover, in HG- and LPS-induced inflammation, MRME reduced U937 monocyte activation by inhibiting mitochondrial respiration and inflammatory markers. Finally, the inhibitory potential of MRME on the digestive enzymes α-glucosidase, α-amylase and lipase activity was investigated. Our results support the idea that MRME has a positive effect on inhibition of endothelial/macrophage dysfunction under HG/senescence inflammatory conditions. Furthermore, the obtained results showed a modest inhibitory power of the extract (IC50 values: 2.98 ± 0.24, 1.77 ± 0.15, and 2.06 ± 0.31 mg/ml, respectively), which, however, could be of some help in decreasing the absorption of glucose and triglycerides. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Toxocara canis can produce the " larva migrans " syndrome in humans, and in puppies, it can cause severe digestive disorders. The most used treatments are based on anthelmintics, although there are reports of anthelmintic (AH) resistance. The Yucatan Peninsula has a great variety of plant species whose AH properties are still unknown. The objective of this study was to evaluate the in vitro AH activity of ethanolic (EE), methanolic (ME) and aqueous (AE) extracts from the leaves of five native plant species of the Yucatan Peninsula on T. canis eggs of dogs from Merida, Yucatan. As part of a screening, the EE of the plants Alseis yucatanensis, Calea jamaicensis, Cameraria latifolia, Macrocepis diademata, and Parathesis cubana were evaluated at doses of 2400 and 3600 μg/ml. The EE and AE of A. yucatanensis and M. diademata presented high percentages (≥ 91.3%) of inhibition of the larval development of T. canis after six days of exposure. The lowest LC 50 and LC 99 was presented by the ME from A. yucatanensis (255.5 and 629.06 µg/ml, respectively) and the ME from M. diademata (222.4 and 636.5 µg/ml, respectively), and the AE from A. yucatanenesis (LC 50 of 535.9 µg/ml). Chemical profiling of the most potent AH extract (Alseis yucatanensis) was carried out by LC-UV-HRMS. Data from the ME and AE from this plant indicated the presence of the known glucosylngoumiensine, kaempferol 3,7-diglucosyde, uvaol, linoleic acid and linolenic acid together with unknown alkaloids. The EE, ME and AE from leaves of M. diademata and A. yucatanensis could be developed as natural alternatives to control T. canis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plants have been reported showing strong antimicrobial properties. Investigation of plants originated antibiotic agents explored a new chapter in the field of pharmacology. This study was designed to screen Argemone mexicana L. for its antibiotic properties and its positive effect against pathogenic bacteria and fungi. Flowers, berries and leaves were extracted from three solvents (methanol, ethanol and chloroform) and Antibacterial and antifungal activates were performed through agar disc diffusion and agar tube dilution methods, respectively. Antibacterial activity of ethanol, methanol and chloroform was about 80% against maximum bacterial strains. Antifungal activity was observed more than 50%. Crude plant extracts were potent 50–60% against A. fumigates while above 75% against A. niger. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cancer is one of the chief causes of death in the world, and there are various treatment modalities for cancer. Most of them cause adverse side effects, and to overcome these limitations, plant-based extracts are studied for their anticancer property. In the present study, we have extracted the ethanolic extract of Passiflora incarnata leaves and nanoformulated it with synthesized liposomes, characterized the nanoformulation using different photophysical tools, and compared the anticancer activity of the nanoformulated ethanolic extract and ethanolic extract of Passiflora incarnata leaves in various cancer cell lines. The nanoformulated ethanolic extract was found to be reduced in size and more stable than the ethanolic extract. We have found that the nanoformulated ethanolic extract isolated from Passiflora incarnata leaves induced necrosis in cancer cells and the nanoformulation has a dose-dependent effect on the inhibition of cancer cell growth. The nanoformulation of the Passiflora incarnata leaves ethanolic extract reduced the toxicity of normal cells compared to the ethanolic extract. Biocompatibility was tested by in vivo studies using a zebrafish model, where we found that both the ethanolic extract and nanoformulated ethanolic extract of Passiflora incarnata leaves did not induce any developmental deformity up to 100 μg/ml concentration, making the formulation biocompatible. Thus, the nanoformulated ethanolic extract of Passiflora incarnata leaves can be proposed as a potent anticancer agent. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Mela Rosa Marchigiana pulp callus cultures produce long-lasting bioactive compounds. • Mela Rosa Marchigiana pulp callus extract showed in vitro antioxidant activity. • Mela Rosa Marchigiana pulp callus extract showed ex vivo antioxidant activity. • Mela Rosa Marchigiana pulp callus extract showed in vivo antioxidant activity. [Display omitted] The Mela Rosa Marchigiana (MRM) pulp callus, kept alive since 2017 by monthly sub-cultures, was investigated and morphologically described. In the present paper, the MRM callus ethanolic Extract (MRME) was prepared from one of the 2022 callus sub-cultures and analysed by GC-MS and GC-FID. The investigation was carried out to test whether a long-term culture could affect either the amount or the bioactivity (or both) of the triterpenes produced by the callus. To this aim, the 2022 extract (MRME 2022) was compared to the extract prepared a few years ago (i.e., MRME 2019). Obtained results showed that the composition of both extracts was almost the same, thus revealing that the callus culture efficiency of triterpenes production was nearly unchanged over time. When analysing the biological effect of the extract, all experimental tests, including cell-free, in vitro , ex vivo , and in vivo assays, confirmed that MRME 2022 significantly protected cells, tissues, or whole organisms from oxidative stress-induced damage. Present results could lead to future studies to test MRME as a possible ingredient of a nutraceutical formulation for healthy aging or for the prevention of oxidative stress-associated pathologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract An improved active packaging system was developed for fresh fruits using silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) coupled with calcium alginate (Ca-ALG). For the synthesis of AgNPs aqueous, ethanol and methanol extracts of Artemisia scoparia (AS) were used. These AgNP's were characterized using UV–Vis, SEM, EDS, AFM, FTIR and gel electrophoresis. Ethanol extract of AS (ASE) produced AgNPs with smallest size in comparison to aqueous AS (ASA) and methanol extract of AS (ASM). AgNPs synthesized from ASE had a size range of 12.0–23.3 nm and were tested on Human Corneal Epithelial Cells to evaluate their cytotoxicity. At 0.05 ng/mL of AgNP's concentration, no toxic effects were observed on the evaluated cell line. Therefore, 0.05 ng/mL of AgNPs mixed with edible coating of Ca-ALG were applied on strawberries and loquats as active coating to increase their shelf life. Significant improvement was observed in the quality parameters of strawberries and loquats such as microbial analysis, acidity loss, soluble solid content loss, weight loss and quality decay. Ca-ALG coating incorporated with AgNPs enhanced the shelf life of strawberries and loquats in comparison to no treatment and simple Ca-ALG coatings. This study provides an insight to food industry to extend the shelf life of fresh fruits using AgNP's formulated coatings. Graphical abstract Unlabelled Image Highlights • Improved active packaging system for fresh fruits using AgNPs coupled with Ca-ALG. • Artemisia scoparia (AS) Waldst & Kit was selected as main reducing agent. • The AgNPs concentration of 0.05 ng/mL proves no toxic effects in evaluated cell line. • The AgNPs formulated active coatings enhance the shelf life of strawberries and loquats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ethnopharmacological relevance Medicinal plants used in traditional medicines are affordable, easily accessible, safer, less toxic and considered as a rich or efficient source of bioactive molecules for modern therapeutics. Artemisia nilagirica (AR) has a long history of use in Indian traditional medicine to combat a wide variety of diseases including cancer. Aim of the study Considering the vast potential of traditional healing plants to deliver safer, less toxic and efficient chemotherapeutics, we have examined anticancer activity of ethanolic extract, bioactive fractions and sub-fractions of AR against different human cancer cell lines along with their phytochemical analysis to understand the insights of novel anticancer activities for further preclinical studies. Materials and methods Fresh plant material of AR was procured from the wild, dried and ground. The grinded materials was extracted in ethanol (AR-01) and fractionated into butanol (AR-02), ethyl acetate (AR-03), hexane (AR-04) and water (AR-05). The cytotoxicity was evaluated against three different human cancer cell lines, i.e. colon (DLD-1), lung (A-549), and breast (MCF-7) using Sulforhodamine B (SRB) assay along with non-cancerous VERO cells as control and doxorubicin (DOX) as positive control. As we observed strong cytotoxicity of AR-03 and AR-04 fractions against tested cells and marked cytotoxic effects particularly in colon cancer cell lines, we further re-fractionated, AR-03 into (AR-03A, AR-03B, AR-03C, AR-03D, AR-03E) and AR-04 into (AR-04A, AR-04B, AR-04C) sub-fractions by column chromatography and investigated against the same panel of cell lines in addition to one more colon cancer cell line (HT-29). Phytochemical analysis was performed through HPLC-ESI-QTOF-MS/MS fragmentation. Results Ethyl acetate (AR-03) and hexane (AR-04) fractions were found to be the most cytotoxic against all the tested cell lines. Further, AR-03E and AR-04A sub-fractions were found more specific cytotoxic selectively against DLD-1 cancer cell lines at 100 µg/ml concentration. HPLC-ESI-QTOF-MS/MS determination revealed the presence of 17 compounds in AR-01. Among them, 4 compounds were reported for the first time in this species. However, 3 identified compounds (artemorin, β-santonin and caryophyllene oxide) in AR-03E sub-fraction were commonly present in each bioactive fraction and may be considered as potential and safest cytotoxic agents for anticancer activity. Conclusions Experimental evidences reported in this paper for anticancer activity validate the traditional wisdom of Artemisia nilagirica as an anticancer herbal drug. To our knowledge, this is our first novel observation of cytotoxicity and selectivity of ethyl acetate and hexane sub-fraction of AR-01 i.e. AR-03E and AR-04A respectively against DLD-1 human cancer cell lines. HPLC-ESI-QTOF-MS/MS determination attributes the identification of cytotoxic compounds which may be used for further preclinical studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The fruit decoction of Xylopia aethiopica (Dunal) A. Rich. is widely used for the treatment of diseases associated with oxidative stress such as diabetes, particularly in Africa. The present study was aimed to investigate the effects of X. aethiopica fruit acetone (XAFA) fraction in ameliorating oxidative stress in a type 2 diabetes (T2D) model of rats. The crude X. aethiopica fruit ethanolic extract was fractionated using solvents with increasing polarity and acetone fraction showed significantly ( p < 0.05) higher in vitro antioxidant potentials which were measured by (1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl radical (DPPH), hydroxyl radical (HRS) and nitric oxide (NO) assays compared to other fractions. It was then subjected to in vivo antioxidant study in a T2D rat model. Acetone fraction depicted potent in vitro antioxidant actions (IC 50 : DPPH: 19.82 ± 0.73 μg/mL; HRS: 25.34 ± 6.19 μg/mL; NO: 14.45 ± 2.44 μg/mL) compared to other fractions. Additionally, a significant ( p < 0.05) and dose-dependent improvement on the in vivo antioxidant status was observed in the animals in diabetic treated groups (DXAL, DXAH) compared to the diabetic control (DBC) group. The results of our study suggest that XAFA possesses potent antioxidant potential and could be used to ameliorate oxidative stress associated metabolic complications such as T2D. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Colletotrichum gloeosporioides is a major anthracnose-causing agent, causing dark spots in important fruit crops such as banana, papaya and mango. Eucalyptus trees and shrubs are native to Australia, but are currently widely distributed. There is evidence that Eucalyptus species display activity against Colletotrichum gloeosporioides . In this work, the antifungal activity of essential oils and ethanolic extracts of three Eucalyptus species cultivated for wood in Colombia ( Eucalyptus camaldulensis Dehn., Eucalyptus globulus Labill. and Eucalyptus tereticornis Smith.) was evaluated. Leaf from the three Eucalyptus species was extracted by hydrodistillation and ethanol maceration to yield respectively the essential oil and ethanolic extract, which were tested against C. gloeosporioides Penz., using an agar macrodilution assay. Ethanolic extracts showed stronger inhibition than essential oils. Although the ethanolic extract of E. camaldulensis provided 98% of inhibition at a concentration of 5000 mg/L, the ethanolic extract of E. globulus inhibited by 50% at a lower concentration of 500 mg/L. The metabolites from essential oils and ethanol extracts were examined respectively by gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry (GC–MS) and ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography coupled to tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC–MS/MS). Both E. camaldulensis and E. globulus ethanolic extracts may be considered for antifungal formulations and as source of interesting anti- Colletotrichum compounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Azadirachta indica A. Juss. (Neem) has been used in India for the treatment of skin problems for centuries. However, no skin photoaging-related research has been performed with this agent. In the present study, neem leaf extract at 1, 10, and 50 μg/mL was investigated for its skin anti-aging effects in UVB-irradiated NHDFs and hairless mice. Regulation of molecular signaling pathways by neem leaf extract during UVB exposure was investigated in both in vitro and in vivo models. UVB-irradiated skin model treated with neem leaf extract showed increased type I procollagen and elastin as a result of enhanced synthesis via two pathways. Firstly, transforming growth factor TGF-β1 is up-regulated. Secondly, intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS), transcription activator AP-1 protein expression, and MAPK are down-regulated. The down-regulation of signaling molecules caused the suppression of type I procollagen degrading enzymes such as matrix metalloproteinase-1 and type I procollagen synthesis inhibitor such as interleukin-6. In particular, topical application of neem leaf to UVB-irradiated hairless mice was shown to be very effective in treating the symptoms of skin aging such as wrinkles, thickening, water loss, and erythema. Therefore, our results indicated that neem leaf ethanolic extract is a promising anti-aging candidate for topical therapy products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ethnopharmacological relevance Salvia sclarea L., clary, is an aromatic plant traditionally used in folk medicine for the treatment of various diseases and conditions. Although it has been primarily used as a stomachic, there are data on traditional use of S. sclarea as an agent against gingivitis, stomatitis and aphthae. Aim of the study The aim of the study was to examine the effect of the S. sclarea ethanolic extract on the lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced periodontitis in rats from the immunological and histopathological standpoint. Material and methods Periodontal inflammation in rats was induced by repeated injections of LPS from Escherichia coli into the interdental papilla between the first and second right maxillary molars. The extract was administered two times a day by oral gavage (200 mg/kg body weight). The inflammatory status was assessed by the measurements of proinflammatory cytokines interleukin-1 β (IL-1 β ), interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor- α (TNF- α ) of gingival tissues and descriptive analysis of histological sections of periodontium. Chemical characterization of the extract was determined using high performance liquid chromatography system (HPLC). Antioxidant activity of the extract was estimated with two in vitro complementary methods: 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl and β- carotene/linoleic acid models. Results Treatment with S. sclarea extract, compared to the untreated group of the rats, significantly diminished the process of inflammation decreasing the levels of IL-1 β , IL-6 and TNF- α , reducing the gingival tissue lesions and preserving bone alveolar resorption. Considerably smaller number of inflammatory cells and larger number of fibroblasts was noticed. The administration of the extract three days earlier did not have significant preventive effects. Rosmarinic acid was the predominant compound in the extract. The extract showed strong antioxidant effects in both test systems. Conclusions S. sclarea extract manifested anti-inflammatory effect in LPS-induced periodontitis suggesting that it may have a role as a therapeutic agent in periodontal diseases. Having in mind that overproduction of reactive oxygen species is connected to periodontitis, the strong antioxidant capacity may be contributable to anti-inflammatory properties of the extract. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Propolis is a honey bee product with a rich source of natural antioxidants due to its flavonoids and phenolic acids. Propolis has broad biological effects such as dysentery, eye diseases, wound healing, fever, ulcer, skin rashes, scorpion stings, oral infections, diarrhea, liver disorders, etc., and has been used as folk medicine since ancient times. The primary objective of this study was to determine the antioxidant potency of propolis oils from various agroclimatic regions. The in vitro antioxidant activity of different agroclimatic regions of propolis oils and the ethanolic extracts were studied using DPPH, hydroxyl radical, nitric oxide, and ABTS assay. This research found that propolis oil from South Eastern Ghat had a higher antioxidant activity with IC 50 values for DPPH, ABTS, and hydroxyl radicals were 120.74 ± 2.83, 15.24 ± 0.74, and 34.30 ± 1.95 μg/mL, respectively. While propolis ethanolic extract from North Eastern Coastal Plain showed a higher radical scavenging effect with IC 50 values for DPPH, nitric oxide, and hydroxyl radical were 123.12 ± 3.10, 28.07 ± 0.67, and 26.24 ± 0.79 μg/mL, respectively. According to the findings, the ABTS assay revealed more potent antioxidant activity in propolis than other methods. As a result, it was found that propolis oil has the highest antioxidant activity than the propolis ethanolic extract, and it can be used as a potent natural antioxidant source. • Different in vitro techniques, including the DPPH, nitric oxide, hydroxyl radical, and ABTS for free radical scavenging test were used to measure the antioxidant activity of Propolis Ethanolic extract and oil. • This study found that Propolis oil has the highest antioxidant activity than the Propolis ethanolic extract. • The antioxidants produced from Propolis oil are less expensive and safer than synthetic drugs. So, it would be an excellent therapeutic drug in the biomedical field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hydatid disease is an important economic and human public health problem with a wide geographical distribution. Surgical excision remains the primary treatment and the only hope for complete cure of hydatosis. The most important complications arising from surgical excision, however, is recurrence, which is due to dissemination of protoscolices during the surgery. Pre-surgical inactivation of the contents of the hydatid cyst by injection of scolicidal agent into the cyst has been used as adjunct to surgery in order to overcome the risk of recurrence. In the present study, ethanolic extracts of turmeric ( Curcuma longa ) and ginger ( Zingiber officinale ) were tested as scolicidal agent for Echinococcus protoscoleces. Protoscoleces were collected aseptically from sheep livers containing hydatid cysts. Three concentrations (10, 30 and 50 mg/ml) of each extract were investigated and viability of the protoscoleces was tested by 0.1% eosin staining. Ginger extract showed the strongest scolicidal effect (100%) after 20 min at a concentration of 30 mg/ml and 10 min at 50 mg/ml . The maximum scolicidal effect of turmeric was 93.2% after 30 min at a concentration of 50 mg/ml. It is concluded that turmeric and ginger extracts have high scolicidal activity and could be used as effective scolicidal agents against Echinococcus protoscoleces. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Toad skins and venom glandular secretions have been widely used for centuries in traditional Chinese and Japanese medicine for the treatment of various ailments such as cancer, sores, toothache, local inflammation and pain. The active chemical constituents from traditional oriental medicines have demonstrated potential in the development of effective therapeutic pharmaceuticals. Our primary focus in this research was to identify and characterise ‘active’ compounds or groups of compounds for their potential as neuropsychiatric disorder therapeutics. For this aim, we utilised a variety of solvents, i.e., the aqueous, 60% ethanol (aqueous) and acetic acid (aq) (at two different pHs) for extractions of Australian cane toad skins to identify chemical constituents. The identification of compounds was carried out using HPLC-ESI-Q-TOF-MS/MS based on the accurate mass measurement for molecular ions and MS/MS analysis, whereby accurate mass pseudo-molecular ions and characteristic fragment ions were compared to published reference data, including mass bank and NIST. As a result, we have to date identified 42 major constituents including alkaloids, amino acids, bufadienolides, fatty acids, nucleobases, nucleosides and vitamins mostly from the aqueous and 60% ethanol extracts. Of the 42 constituents identified, 29 were found in the aqueous extract, 35 were found in the ethanol (aq) extract and only 10 in the pH 1.78 acetic acid extract and 11 in the pH 2.17 acetic acid extract of the cane toad skins. Therefore, the aqueous and 60% ethanolic extracts present the greatest potential for ongoing development in our assays. There have been no previous reports on the identification of many of the constituents we have here identified in Australian cane toad skins. These findings, while somewhat consistent with findings in toad skins in other countries, identifies the presence of potential bioactive constituents. Our results showed that HPLC-ESI-Q-TOF-MS/MS is an effective method to characterise and identify components in Australian cane toad skin extracts. Chemical profiling is an essential initial step in the identification and therapeutic exploitation of bioactive agents present in Australian cane toad skin extracts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ethanolic extract of propolis, especially the Brazilian green type, is widely and mainly used for therapeutic purposes despite the lack of knowledge about its effects and its cellular mode of action. This type of propolis, derived from Baccharis dracunculifolia (alecrim-do-campo), has been extensively commercialized and the consumers use it to enhance health. This work aimed to assess the genotoxic/mutagenic and antigenotoxic/antimutagenic potentials of the ethanolic extracts of Brazilian green propolis and of B. dracunculifolia , on mammalian cells. It was not observed genotoxic and mutagenic effects by both extracts. After evaluate the exposure of the cells to each extract with a recognized mutagen, simultaneously, the results showed a significant reduction on DNA damage. The experiment carried out with a pre-incubation period was more effective than without incubation test, showing that the tested extracts were able to inactivate the mutagen before it could react with the DNA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plant sources contain numerous natural compounds, which could act as lead compounds for drug scaffolds. These lead compounds have beneficial therapeutic roles, some of which are used for the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease and cancer. Total ethanolic extracts of seventeen selected medicinal plants from Sri Lanka were evaluated for Acetylcholinesterase (AChE), Butyrylcholinesterase (BChE), and protease enzyme inhibitory and antioxidant activities. Of these, the bark extract of Toona ciliata showed marked AChE, BChE, protease enzyme inhibitory activities. Extracts of T. ciliata, Osbeckia octandra, Fleuggea leucopyrus and Evolvulus alsinoides showed both high antioxidant capacities and high phenolic contents. Extracts of these plants could be used for pharmaceutical as well as for nutraceutical purpose. The strong correlation ( r = 0.789, p < 0.01) found between the ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) and the oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC) values together with the negative high correlation ( r = −0.609, p < 0.01) found between DPPH free radical scavenging IC 50 and ORAC values of the tested plant extracts, suggests that the components capable of reducing oxidants could be similar to those scavenging free radicals in these plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ethanolic extract of Alafia barteri (Hook F. Icon) was dissolved in distilled water and successively partitioned in n -hexane, chloroform, ethyl acetate and n -butanol. The fractions were evaluated for phytochemical composition, lethality against brine shrimp larvae and in vitro antiplasmodial activity against Plasmodium falciparum strain. The obtained results revealed that the roots and leaf extracts of A. barteri exhibited broad spectrum of antiplasmodial activity (IC 50 1.5 ± 0.7–6.2 ± 0.80 μg/mL). The aqueous leaf fractions displayed the most potent antiplasmodial activity with an IC 50 value of 1.5 ± 0.7 μg/mL, which is comparable to reference antimalarial drug (IC 50 value of 1.3 ± 0.2 μg/mL). The leaf fractions displayed higher activity than the root extracts. The highest minimum lethal concentration (105.2 ± 0.8 ppm) was exhibited by the aqueous leaf extract followed closely by the root extract (120.2 ± 1.1 ppm). The leaf extracts contained higher polyphenols (45.3 ± 0.85 mgGAE/g) and flavonoids (18.10 ± 0.2 mgCTE/g) than the root extracts. The n -hexane and EtOAc extracts/fractions displayed lower activity on brine shrimp larvae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aedes aegypti transmits etiologic agents of yellow fever and dengue. Vaccine for dengue virus is not available and vector control is essential to minimize dengue incidence. The larvicidal and repellent effect of the crude ethanol, acetone and petroleum ether extract leaves of Tribulus terrestris , against 3rd instar larvae and adults of mosquito, Ae. aegypti the vector of dengue fever was evaluated. The efficacy of petroleum ether extract seemed to be more effective with LC 50 64.6 ppm followed by acetone extract with LC 50 173.2 ppm and finally ethanolic extract with LC 50 376.4 ppm. Moreover, the acetone and petroleum ether extracts exerted a highly delayed toxic effect on the pupae and adults resulted from treated larvae, where the pupal mortality was 57.1% and 100% at concentrations 400 and 100 ppm, respectively. Also, the petroleum ether and acetone extracts showed reduction effects on adult emergence. The repellent action of the plant extracts tested was varied depending on the solvent used in extraction and the dose of the extract. The most effective plant extract that evoked 100% repellency or biting deterrence was petroleum ether extract at a dose of 1.5 mg/cm 2 compared with 100% repellency for commercial formulation, N , N -diethyl-3-methylbenzamide (DEET) at the same dose. Hence, these extracts can be used as an effective alternative to the existing synthetic pesticides for the control of Ae. aegypti. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The rosemary ( Rosmarinus officinalis L.) essential oil is widely used as an ingredient in food formulations and fragrance industry. However, there are few studies on the effects of seasonal variation on the composition and biological activities of this oil. Thus, the aim of present study was to evaluate the effects of seasonal variation (2012–2013) on composition and antioxidant and antimicrobial activities of rosemary essential oils and ethanolic extract. Composition of essential oil was determined by GC-MS and that of the extract by LC-MS/MS. Antioxidant activity was evaluated by 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and beta-carotene/linoleic acid methods. Total phenolic compounds were determined by Folin–Ciocalteu method, and antimicrobial activity was evaluated by the determination of the minimum inhibitory concentration. Camphor was found as the major compound in essential oil (24.3–35.9%, mainly in January/2013), while carnosic acid was found in largest amount in January/2013 (summer) in the ethanolic extract, which presented the largest antioxidant activity, similar to butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) and alfa-tocopherol. The results showed that essential oil and extracts harvested in summer exhibited strong activity against Staphylococcus aureus , even higher than sulfanilamide, due to the high amount of carnosic acid and camphor. Altogether, the essential oil and the extracts collected in summer showed better antioxidant and antimicrobial activities, which can be explained by the high levels of camphor and carnosic acid. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ethnopharmacological relevance Euphorbia hyssopifolia L. is a weed with recognized antimicrobial potential employed in Indian, Asian and Latin–American popular medicine. However, little is known with regard to its toxic potential. The present study aimed to investigate the cytotoxic and genotoxic effects of ethanolic extract of E. hyssopifolia in HepG2 cell culture. Materials and methods Phytochemical screening of ethanolic extract was carried out to determine the presence of active secondary plant metabolites. Six concentrations (0.00001, 0.0001, 0.001, 0.01, 0.1 and 1.0 mg/mL) of ethanolic extract were tested by the MTT assay to verify cytotoxicity. Then, genotoxic evaluations (alkaline comet assay and cytokinesis-block micronucleus assay – CBMN) were carried out in HepG2 cells with extract concentrations of 0.01, 0.1 and 1.0 mg/mL. Results Mono and sesquiterpenes, triterpenes and steroids, and flavonoids were the main classes found in the phytochemical screening. Extract concentrations used in the MTT assay showed no cytotoxic activity. On the other hand, genotoxic activity was verified at 0.1 and 1.0 mg/mL in the alkaline comet assay. Additionally, the 1.0 mg/mL concentration induced severe cell damage leading to death in the CBMN assay, indicating a cytotoxic effect for this concentration in the latter method. Conclusion The use of E. hyssopifolia extract for medicinal purposes should be avoided, because concentrations above 0.01 mg/mL may pose risk to human health due to cytotoxic and/or genotoxic effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rhipicephalus sanguineus (Latreille, 1806) presents medical importance, being the principal vector of Rickettsia conorii , the causative agent of Botonous fever, occurring in various regions of Europe and Africa. In the Americas, has been reported as a vector of Rickettsia rickettsii , the causative agent of Mountain Spotted Fever. It presents veterinary importance because is responsible by the transmission of zoonosis like babesiosis, ehrlichiosis, hepatozoonosis and others. The resistance that these ticks show to some of the active principles used in acaricides has risen wildly. In other hand, the use of herbal medicines has been outstanding recently. Among the advantages of phytotherapics that justify their use are synergistic effects of its components and easy degradation in the environment. In this scenario, Tagetes patula L. (Asteraceae) appears as a species with great biocide potential. The phytochemical investigation of T. patula has resulted in the isolation of several chemical constituents such as benzofurans, carotenoids, flavonoids and thiophenes. This study aimed to test the effect of the ethanolic extract obtained from aerial parts of T. patula against eggs of R. sanguineus by Egg hatchability test and to verify, for the first time, the action of this sample on ovary cells of engorged females submitted to the Adult Immersion Test. The extract was very effective, inhibiting egg hatching in 96.98% (±0.025) with LD 50 = 6.312 mg/mL (4.064–8.497 mg/mL). Microscopic analysis of the structure of the ovaries showed significant morphological changes in the structure of oocytes II–V and pedicel cells, interfering directly in its normal embryogenesis, impairing or impeding the formation of healthy larvae, breaking the life cycle of this ticks in the beginning. Despite the difficulty to control adult populations of ticks, these findings are important and provide an alternative to disrupt development on the environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bark from Eucalyptus globulus , a side-stream of pulp and paper industry, is a source of bioactive polyphenols that are extractable with 80/20 (v/v) ethanol/water. In this work, downstream processing of this extract was performed by ultrafiltration (UF) assessing for the first time (i) the influence of membrane type and transmembrane pressure (TMP) on the flux and permeate composition; (ii) the analysis of flux and resistances using the resistance-in-series model; (iii) permeate flux and cake build up modeling; and finally (iv) the feasibility of concentration by UF. Four membranes were selected: polyamide composite GE – 1 kDa (GE 1), polyethersulfone PLEAIDE – 5 kDa (P 5), polyvinylidenefluoride JW – 30 kDa (JW 30), and polysulfone EW – 60 kDa (EW 60). The effect of TMP on the permeation flux was evaluated, and total solids (TS), total phenolic compounds (TPC), proanthocyanidins (Pac) and formaldehyde condensed tannins (fcT) were quantified in the permeates. Data analysis showed that the experiments were performed in a region not controlled by pressure. P 5 and JW 30 membranes are more susceptible to fouling than the GE 1 and EW 60. In spite of the lowest cut-off of GE 1 membrane, it presented the lowest retention to TS, TPC and Pac, demonstrating that membrane material plays a significant role in separation. Finally, a model using classical cake-filtration theory and the surface-renewal concept successfully predicted the permeate flux and cake build up. A trade-off between permeate flux, the resistance and the retentions to TPC and Pac was established. The selected TMP was 3 bar for EW 60 (retentions: TPC 14%, Pac 30%) and 5 bar for JW 30, P 5 and GE 1 (retentions: TPC 66%, 66% and 58%; Pac 87%, 88% and 58%, respectively). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Antioxidant potencies of ethanolic extract and its compounds from Cunninghamia konishii wood were investigated and reported for the first time. The results revealed that among five soluble fractions derived from ethanolic extract, the EtOAc soluble fraction possesses the highest antioxidant activity. The bioassay-guided fractionation yielded two potent antioxidant constituents from subfraction E2, namely lanceolatanin D ( 1 ) and isolariciresinol ( 2 ). Both lanceolatanin D ( 1 ) and isolariciresinol ( 2 ) exhibited DPPH radical, superoxide anion radical scavenging, and reducing power activities. Therefore, C. konishii wood ethanolic extract and its compounds are great sources of antioxidants for improving human health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study was carried out to evaluate the in alloxan (150 mg/kgb.wt) induced diabetic rats. The ethanolic extract of Durian (Durio zibethinus Murr.) and rambutan (Nephelium lappaceum L.) fruit peels administered orally to the diabetic rats for 11 days, produced significant decrease in the level of blood glucose. The highest percentage reduction in blood glucose levels were shown of rambutan fruit peels extract with dose 500 mg/kgb.w and the value of persentage reduction were 61.76±4.26%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ascariasis remains to be one of the health problems in Indonesia. The synthetic antihelminthic drugs that are used to treat ascariasis have some side effects and teratogenic effect. Thus, other substances are required to be the alternative treatment. The in vitro experimental research was conducted to determine the antihelminthic effect and LC50 of black seeds ( Nigella sativa ) ethanolic extract against Ascarissuum . Ten Ascaris suum were soaked in each ethanolic extract of black seed with concentration of 0,5%, 1%, 2%, 4%, and 8%. NaCl 0,9% solution was used as negative control. The amount of dead A. suum was calculated every 12 hours for 48 hours. The procedure was conducted in 3 times replication. The data collected was analyzed using Fisher-Exact test and Probit analysis. The statistical analysis results (p<0,05) indicated that antihelminthic effect was found after 48 hours of observation on the extract concentration of 0,5%, 1%, and 2%, and after 12 hours on the extract concentration of 4% and 8%. LC50 of black seeds ethanolic extract ( N. sativa ) against A, suum was 1,693% (95% CL= 1,210% - 2,325%). In conclusion, the black seeds ( N. sativa ) ethanolic extract had antihelminthic effect against A. suum . The black seeds ethanolic extract had LC50 at concentration of 1,693%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim AMany oxidative stress-related diseases occur as a result of the accumulation of free radicals in the body. Free radicals are generated by various endogenous systems, exposure to different physiochemical conditions, or pathological states. A balance between free radicals and antioxidants is necessary for appropriate physiological function. A lot of studies are going on worldwide directed towards finding natural antioxidants of plant origin. FTIR spectroscopy is used to develop a rapid and effective analytical method for studying the main constituents in medicinal plants. The chemical constituents in the plants were identified and monitored for their medicinal properties. The aim of this study was to evaluate the in vitro antioxidant activities and FTIR spectroscopic analysis of the ethanolic extract of Evolvulus alsinoides . Method Free radical scavenging activity of ethanolic extract of the whole plant of E. alsinoides was evaluated by in vitro methods, including total antioxidant assay (FRAP method) and hydrogen peroxide scavenging activity using ascorbic acid as a standard. The degree of lipid peroxidation was examined by estimating the thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) using standard methods and the functional groups were analyzed using FTIR spectroscopy. The IR spectrum in the mid-infrared region 4 000–400 cm −1 was used for discriminatio and to identify various functional groups present in E. alsinoides . Results The findings indicated the presence of amino acids, amides, amines, carboxylic acids, carbonyl compounds, organic hydrocarbons, and halogens in the ethanolic extract of E. alsinoides , and the antioxidant activities were significantly increased, when compared with the standard antioxidant ascorbic acid, in a dose-dependent manner. Conclusion The findings indicated promising antioxidant activity of the crude extract of E. alsinoides , and needs further exploration for their potential effective use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Aim: This study was aimed at evaluating the anti-diabetic activity of the ethanol and aqueous extracts of the leaf material of Barringtonia acutangula in a diabetic animal model. Methods: The ethanolic and aqueous extracts (250 and 500 mg·kg−1 body weight) of the leaves of B. acutangula were assessed for antidiabetic activity in a streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetes animal model following 21 days of treatment. Glibenclamide (0.6 mg·kg−1 p.o.) was used as a positive control. The hematological parameters, such as blood glucose level, urea, creatinin, cholesterol, HDL-C, and LDL-C levels were examined. Results: An acute toxicity study (5 000 mg·kg−1, p.o.) did not produce any symptoms of toxicity. Significant reductions in blood glucose level, and serum total cholesterol and triglyceride levels were noted in animals treated with the extract. The high density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDLC) level was found to increase as compared with the diabetic control group. Conclusion: These results suggest that the leaf aqueous and ethanolic extracts of B. acutangula have anti-diabetic effects. The aqueous extract of B. acutangula produced a similar effect when compared with the ethanol extract. It is proposed that consumption of B. acutangula in some form like tea may help the management of diabetes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lepidium virginicum L. (Brassicaceae) is a plant widely used in traditional Mexican medicine as an expectorant, diuretic, and as a remedy to treat diarrhea and dysentery, infection-derived gastroenteritis. However, there is no scientific study that validates its clinical use as an anti-inflammatory in the intestine. This study aimed to investigate the anti-inflammatory properties of the ethanolic extract of Lepidium virginicum L. (ELv) in an animal model of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)-like colitis. The 2,4-dinitrobenzene sulfonic acid (DNBS) animal model of IBD was used. Colitis was induced by intrarectal instillation of 200 mg/kg of DNBS dissolved vehicle, 50% ethanol. Control rats only received the vehicle. Six hours posterior to DNBS administration, ELv (3, 30, or 100 mg/kg) was administered daily by gavage or intraperitoneal injection. The onset and course of the inflammatory response were monitored by assessing weight loss, stool consistency, and fecal blood. Colonic damage was evaluated by colon weight/length ratio, histopathology, colonic myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity, and gene expression of proinflammatory cytokines, including tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-1beta (IL-1β), chemokine C-X-C motif ligand 1 (CXCL-1), and interleukin-6 (IL-6). Rats treated with DNBS displayed significant weight loss, diarrhea, fecal blood, colon shortening, a significant increase in immune cell infiltration and MPO activity, as well as increased proinflammatory cytokine expression. Intraperitoneal administration of ELv significantly reduced colon inflammation, whereas oral treatment proved to be ineffective. In fact, intraperitoneal ELv significantly attenuated the clinical manifestations of colitis, immune cell infiltration, MPO activity, and pro-inflammatory (CXCL-1, TNF-α, and IL-1β) gene expression in a dose-dependent manner. Traditional medicine has employed ELv as a remedy for common infection-derived gastrointestinal symptoms; however, we hereby present the first published study validating its anti-inflammatory properties in the mitigation of DNBS-induced colitis. [Display omitted] • Lepidium virginicum is a plant traditionally used since pre-Hispanic times to remedy gastrointestinal disorders. • The ethanolic extract from Lepidium virginicum L. significantly reduces the clinical manifestations of colitis. • Histology analysis showed better preservation of the epithelium and attenuated infiltration with L. virginicum - treated rats. • L. virginicum L. reduces cell infiltrate and downregulates CXCL-1, TNF-α, and IL-1β. • L. virginicum L. offers a novel therapy for IBD and reinforces its use in Mexican traditional medicine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Antioxidant supplements from plants are vital to count the oxidative damage in cells. We assessed the antioxidants and antibacterial activity of green hull of Juglans regia in this study. According to our results the maximum antibacterial activity was observed in ethanolic extract when compared to other extract. So, the ethanolic extract was studied for antioxidant activity which exhibited high antiradical activity against DPPH, hydroxyl, and nitric oxide radicals. In conclusion, green hull of J. regia showed strong reducing power activity and total antioxidant capacity. The results justify the therapeutic application of plant in the indigenous system of medicine. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The antioxidant activities of ethanolic extract from edible mushroom Agaricus bisporus (A. bisporus) were evaluated by various methods in vitro and in vivo. In antioxidant assays in vitro, ethanolic extract of A. bisporus was found to have strong reducing power, superoxide radical, hydroxyl radical and 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radical scavenging activity, and moderate hydrogen peroxide scavenging activity. In antioxidant assays in vivo, mice were administered with ethanolic extract of A. bisporus via gavage for 30 consecutive days. As a result, administration of ethanolic extract significantly enhanced the activities of antioxidant enzymes in serums, livers and hearts of mice. In addition, the total phenolic content in the extract determined by Folin–Ciocalteu method was 6.18mg of gallic acid equivalents per gram of dry weight. The main phenolic compounds in ethanolic extract analyzed by ultra-high performance liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry were determined as gallic acid, protocatechuic acid, catechin, caffeic acid, ferulic acid and myricetin. These results suggested that ethanolic extract of A. bisporus had potent antioxidant activity and could be explored as a novel natural antioxidant. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The in vivo anthelmintic (AH) activity of the ethanolic extract from leaves of Phytolacca icosandra was evaluated in goats artificially infected with Haemonchus contortus. Parasite naïve goats were artificially infected with 3000 H. contortus infective larvae per animal. Once the infection was patent (day 28 post-infection) all the animals were sampled to determine the faecal egg counts (FEC) for five consecutive days. Two groups of animals were formed balanced for their FEC and body-weight (BW) (n =6/group): the non-treated control group and the treated group in which goats were individually administered with the ethanolic extract of P. icosandra. The extract was administered orally using gelatin capsules (250mg/kg BW) which were dosed on two consecutive days using a pill-dispenser. Faecal samples were collected from each animal from the day of dosage (Day 0) on a daily basis to determine the number of eggs per gram of feces (EPG) for 15 days post-treatment (PT). The FEC of the two groups were compared using the repeated measures analyses of variance using the log transformed data Ln (FEC+1). The presence of saponins, coumarins, flavonoids, steroids and terpenoids were detected by standard methodologies in the extract. The P. icosandra ethanolic extract was further analyzed by gas chromatography (GC) coupled to a mass spectrometry (GC-MS). A significant reduction in FEC was observed in the treated group compared to the control from day 7 until day 15 PT (P <0.05). The highest percentage reduction (72%) was found on day 11 PT. No adverse reactions were observed in all treated animals for the entire trial. The GC-MS analysis of the organic extracts revealed the presence of three fatty acids as compounds with highest abundance. The three compounds that were identified by their mass fragmentation patterns were: 2-Pentadecanone, 6, 10, 14-trimethyl (RT 10.3min), Pentadecanoic acid, 14-methyl-, methyl ester (RT 10.8min) and Hexadecanoic acid, ethyl ester (RT 11.2min). It is concluded that the P. icosandra ethanolic extract obtained from leaves showed in vivo anthelmintic activity against H. contortus when administered orally to goats at a dose of 250mg/kg BW on two consecutive days. The dose used did not cause any negative effects on the health of goats. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Insects have been relatively unexplored as potential sources of natural antioxidants. We report the antioxidant activity of extracts of the adult large black chafer beetle Holotrichia parallela Motschulsky, a common crop pest in China. The antioxidant activity of the ethanolic extract (EE) and the water extract (WE) of adult H. parallela were evaluated by four different in vitro assays. EE showed potent metal-chelating activity and inhibition of lipid peroxidation. WE proved to be an excellent antioxidant in the scavenging of 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radicals and metal-chelating activity. Catechin was identified in the ethanolic extract and proteins were the main components in the water extracts. Both compounds could contribute to the antioxidant activity of the species. These results suggest that adult H. parallela might be used as a nutraceutical to alleviate oxidate-induced diseases and as a natural antioxidant additive in the food industry. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Ethnopharmacological relevance: Leaves of Platanus orientalis Linn. are used in folk medicine as a wound-healer and ophthalmologic agent. Phytol derivatives from the leaves of plane-tree show anti-ulcer activity. Its analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects for knee pain were known to Persian scientists and hakims. Materials and methods: The ethanolic extract of Platanus orientalis Linn. and its various fractions were given at a dose of 100mg/kg po and 200mg/kg po for testing their anti-inflammatory activity by carrageenan induced hind paw edema. The analgesic activity of the ethanolic extract and its fractions has been carried out by tail-flick method and writhing test at a dosage of 200mg/kg po. Gastric ulceration studies have been further carried out to study the ulcerogenic risk evaluation of the ethanolic extract and its various fractions at a dose of 600mg/kg body weight. Results: Among the tested fractions, chloroform fraction exhibited better inhibition (68.33%) at 200mg/kg po dosage when compared to the standard drug Ibuprofen (66.66%) after 3h in the carrageenan induced hind paw edema. The ethanolic extract and all its fractions especially the chloroform (p<0.01) showed significant analgesic activity with insignificant ulceration as compared to the standard drug i.e. Ibuprofen. The histopathological study of ethanolic extract and its fractions revealed that none of them cause ulcer. Conclusion: The present study indicates that Platanus orientalis Linn. has significant anti-inflammatory and analgesic effect. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Purpose: To explore the effects of ethanolic extract of Radix Scrophulariae (EERS) on ventricular remodeling in rats. Methods: Rats with coronary artery ligation (CAL) were randomly assigned to 5 groups: CAL model; CAL plus 40mg/kg captopril; CAL plus 60mg/kg, 120mg/kg, 240mg/kg EERS. Sham operation rats were randomly assigned to 2 groups, sham-operated control and sham-operated plus 120mg/kg EERS. The rats were orally administered with the corresponding drugs or drinking water for 14weeks. The left ventricular weight index (LVWI) and heart weight index (HWI) were determined. Myocardium tissue was stained with hematoxylin and eosin or picric acid/Sirius red for cardiomyocyte cross-section area or collagen content measurements respectively. The concentrations of hydroxyproline (Hyp), matrix metalloproteinase 2 (MMP-2), angiotensin II (Ang II), aldosterone (ALD), endothelin 1 (ET-1), atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP), tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α) and renin activity (RA) in myocardium or serum were determined. Real-time RT-PCR was used to detect the mRNA expressions of angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE), ET-1 and ANP. Results: EERS could significantly reduce the LVWI and HWI, decrease heart tissue concentrations of Hyp and collagen deposition, diminish cardiomyocyte cross-section area, reduce the tissue level of Ang II, ET-1, ANP and TNF-α. EERS could also down regulate the mRNA expression of ACE, ET-1 and ANP in myocardium. Conclusion: EERS attenuates ventricular remodeling. The mechanisms may be related to restraining the excessive activation of RAAS, TNF-α and modulating some gene expressions associated with cardiac hypertrophy. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Aim of the study: To investigate the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant potential of ethanolic extract of Leucas aspera (EELA) in adjuvant arthritis. Materials and methods: Complete Freund''s adjuvant served to induce arthritis. EELA was administered in two doses along with vehicle control (0.1% carboxymethyl cellulose) and positive control (Diclofenac). Levels of tumour necrosis factor (TNF-)-α, C-reactive protein (CRP), Interleukin-2 (IL-2), Cathepsin D, activities of antioxidant enzymes superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and catalase (CAT) were estimated in plasma/hemolysate and tissue. HPLC analysis of EELA was also performed. Results: EELA exhibited significant anti-inflammatory (p <0.001) and antioxidant activity (p <0.001). It did not show mortality up to 2000mg/kg body weight. Histopathological studies confirmed complete cartilage regeneration and near normal joint in EELA2 treated arthritic rats. Conclusion: This study highlighted the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory potential of Leucas aspera. Three major families of compounds present in EELA may explain these activities: catechins (epicatechin, beta epicatechin), flavonoids (procyanidin), phytosterols (beta-sitosterol) apart from glycosides, phenolic compounds and tannins. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Objective: To investigate the antidiabetic, antioxidant and hypolipidemic efficacy of Cynodon dactylon in diabetic rats. Methods: The experimental rats were randomly divided into three groups: Group I: control; Group II: Alloxan diabetic, untreated; and Group III: Alloxan diabetic treated with ethanolic extract of C. dactylon leaves (450 mg/kg·bw). Experimental diabetes was induced by alloxan in a single dose of 150 mg/kg·bw. Results: A Significant diminution of fasting blood sugar level was observed and also significant increase in HDL and decrease (P<0.05) in cholesterol, triglyceride, LDL and VLDL were observed after 15 days of treatment. The investigation also revealed, the activities of AST, ALT, ALP, AP, LDH, and CPK (P<0.05) were decreased in the extract-supplemented group. The significant decrease in protein content and SOD, CAT, GPx, and GSH (P<0.05) activity and increase in LPO in plasma were found to be ameliorated after treatment. Conclusion: Our result supports the fact that administration of extract of C. dactylon leave is able to reduce hyperglycemia and hyperlipidemia risk and also reduced the oxidative stress in diabetic rats. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Ethnopharmacological relevance: Smilax glabra Roxb. is a traditional Chinese herb, the rhizome of Smilax glabra has been used in folk medicine for the treatment of lead poisoning. Aims of the study: The present study was conducted to investigate the protective role of Smilax glabra extract (SGE) individually or combined with meso-2,3-dimercaptosuccinic acid (DMSA) against the effects of lead acetate on oxidative stress and lead burden in rats. Materials and methods: The biochemical parameters and enzymes in different treated rats were determined by commercial kits. The metal concentrations were measured using atomic absorption spectrophotometer. Results: SGE (300mg/kg) showed very low toxicity to organs in non-lead exposed rats. Administration of SGE individually had no effect on blood zinc protoporphyrin (ZPP) level but significantly enhanced the glutathione (GSH) content and δ-aminolevulinic acid dehydratase (ALAD), alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activities in lead exposed rats. The co-treatment of SGE and DMSA had a synergism in increasing brain, liver and kidney superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) activities and GSH level, and decreasing oxidized glutathione (GSSG) and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) levels. Moreover, the co-treatment could improve the hepatic and renal histopathology changes. SGE as chelating agent showed significant efficiency in reducing blood and tissue lead burden. Conclusions: The in vivo results suggested that SGE individually or combined with DMSA exhibited remarkable protective effects on lead-induced oxidative stress and lead burden in rats. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Ethanolic extract prepared from the seeds of Vernonia anthelmintica was evaluated for its antihyperglycemic activity in STZ (Streptozotocin) induced diabetic rats. Administration of ethanolic extract at a dosage of 0.50g/kgbw produced the maximum fall (82%) in the blood glucose levels in diabetic rats after 6h of treatment. Bioassay-directed fractionation using silica gel column chromatography was performed. Among the five fractions (A1, B1, C1, A2 and B2) obtained, of an initial chromatographic separation of the ethanolic extract, fraction A2 (100mg/kgbw) showed the maximum antihyperglycemic activity which is significantly higher than that of the reference drug glibenclamide (20mg/kgbw). Administration of the active fraction (100mg/kgbw) for 45days resulted in significant reduction in plasma glucose, HbA1C, cholesterol, triglycerides, LDL, VLDL, free fatty acids, phospholipids and HMG-CoA reductase in STZ diabetic rats. In addition to that, significant decrease in plasma insulin, protein, HDL and hepatic glycogen observed in STZ diabetic rats, was normalized after 45days of treatment with the active fraction of V. anthelmintica seeds. From the present study, it is evident that, the seeds of V. anthelmintica possess significant antidiabetic and antihyperlipidemic property without evident toxic effects. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Genital herpes caused by herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) is a chronic, persistent infection spreading efficiently and silently as sexually transmitted disease through the population. Antiviral agents currently applied for the treatment of herpesvirus infections include acyclovir and derivatives. Aqueous and ethanolic extracts of propolis were phytochemically analysed, different polyphenols, flavonoids and phenylcarboxylic acids were identified as major constituents. The aqueous propolis extract revealed a relatively high amount of phenylcarboxylic acids and low concentrations flavonoids when compared to the ethanolic special extract GH 2002. The cytotoxic and antiherpetic effect of propolis extracts against HSV-2 was analysed in cell culture, and revealed a moderate cytotoxicity on RC-37 cells. The 50% inhibitory concentration (IC50) of aqueous and ethanolic GH 2002 propolis extracts for HSV-2 plaque formation was determined at 0.0005% and 0.0004%, respectively. Both propolis extracts exhibited high levels of antiviral activity against HSV-2 in viral suspension tests, infectivity was significantly reduced by >99% and a direct concentration- and time-dependent antiherpetic activity could be demonstrated for both extracts. In order to determine the mode of virus suppression by propolis, the extracts were added at different times during the viral infection cycle. Addition of these drugs to uninfected cells prior to infection or to herpesvirus-infected cells during intracellular replication had no effect on virus multiplication. However both propolis extracts exhibited high anti-herpetic activity when viruses were pretreated with these drugs prior to infection. Selectivity indices were determined at 80 and 42.5 for the aqueous and ethanolic extract, respectively, thus propolis extracts might be suitable for topical therapy in recurrent herpetic infection. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Grape stalks and olive leaves present high amount of phenolic compounds with antioxidant properties. The extraction of these compounds may be considered a way to increase in value both agro-food by-products. Ultrasound is widely applied in extraction due to its effects (cavitation, microstirring or sponge effect) over the process. The goal of this work was to address the application of ultrasound on the antioxidant extraction of olive leaves and grape stalk. For that purpose, the extraction of antioxidant compounds from grape stalks and olive leaves, previously dried at 100 °C, were carried out using a ethanolic solution (80 % v/v) at 60 °C. Extractions were carried out with (US; 30 kHz; 600W)) and agitation (AG) without ultrasound application. In the AG experiments, the solution was agitated with a stirrer. Samples were obtained at different extraction time (10, 30, 60, 120, 180, 240, 360, 480 and 1440 min) and their antioxidant capacity was measured using FRAP method. The Naik model was used to model the extraction kinetics, being identified the antioxidant capacity of extracts at the equilibrium (Y eq) and the initial velocity of extraction (Y eq/B). For grape stalks, the antioxidant capacity of extracts at the equilibrium (Y eq) and the initial velocity of extraction (Y eq/B) were higher in AG experiments than in US experiments. In the olive leaves extractions, the Y eq/B was of the same order for both treatments but Y eq was significantly higher for US experiments. The different influence of ultrasound for both by-products can be explained from their different geometry and structure. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Conventional microbiological methods to evaluate the in vitro antifungal activity of bioactive compounds usually consume a long time. It is also difficult to calculate different kinetic parameters. For this reason, this study aimed to evaluate the sensitivity of phytopathogenic fungi to an ethanolic extract of jackfruit leaf by the poison agar and isothermal microcalorimetry (IMC) tests. The kinetic parameters (maximum growth rate (μ Max), total heat (ϕ Max), time to peak (T1), and lag (λ) phase) varied by fungal isolate. However, the results indicated a reduction of the total heat produced from the fungi at 5 mg/mL of the extract referred to as the control without extract (p < 0.05). Pearson coefficients were established to determine the relationship between both techniques. Correlations demonstrated that the λ phase and μ Max are highly related (> 0.51) to the in vitro percentage inhibition. Therefore, this study contributes to the use of the IMC as an alternative to complement the classical methods of fungal inhibition, providing data in real-time. • Isothermal microcalorimetry was used to evaluate antifungal ethanolic extracts • The heat production of the fungi decreased when the ethanolic extract was used. • The kinetic parameters varied according to each fungus and extract concentration. • Pearson coefficient allowed to correlate microcalorimetry and poisoned agar data. • Microcalorimetry can be an alternative to evaluate the effect of antifungal agents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To study the immunomodulatory potential of Albizia procera (AP) bark using in vivo models and by in silico approach. In silico models involved to study binding affinity of AP bioactive molecules on immune modified proteins such as Human NF-kappa B p52 (NFkB P 52), human tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α). In vivo studies to evaluated immunomodulatory activity of ethanolic extract AP bark (EEAP) Doxorubicin (DOX) induced immunosuppressive rats. Docking results showed AP bioactive molecules 3-O-[α-L-arabinopyranosyl-(1 2)-β- → D fucopyranosyl - (16) - 2 - acetamido - 2 - deoxy- β - → Dglucopyranosyl] echinocystic acid (Compound 1), 3-O-[α-L-arabinopyranosyl-(12)-β- → D fucopyranosyl - (16) - 2 - acetamido - 2 - deoxy- β - → Dglucopyranosyl] acacic acid lactone (Compound 2), Catechin, Quercetin, Isoquercetin were showed immune modulatory activity due to high binding affinity and H bonding interaction with active sites of NFkB P 52 , TNF-α, without H bonding on anti-inflammatory cytokines IL 10. Based on docking Compound 1, Compound 2, Catechin, Quercetin, Isoquercetin were concluded as immunomodulatory potential candidate. EEAP exhibited a dose related incline in cell count of total leukocyte, neutrophils, and lymphocytes. The suppressive outcome of DOX on these cells was not reflected in EEAP treated rats. It enhanced the rate of clearance of the carbon particles in dose dependent manner from the blood circulation in both normal rats and in the immunosuppressive rats. Delayed type of hypersensitivity test (DTH) results showed an increase in footpad thickness of paw significantly in response to antigen, as an impact of EEAP treatment stimulatory response is observed on lymphocytes along with other essential cells of reaction and thus increased the cell mediated immunity. AP improves the immune function in DOX induced immunosuppressive rats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Aim of the study: According to Indian Systems of Medicine, Mucuna pruriens Linn., belonging to the leguminous family (Papilionaceae), were used for treating male sexual disorders since ancient times. In this study, the effects of ethanolic extracts of the Mucuna pruriens Linn. seed on general mating behaviour, libido and potency of normal male Wister albino rats were investigated and also compared with the standard reference drug, Sildenafil citrate. Materials and Methods: Animals were divided into one control group (Group I––received saline) and four experimental groups (Groups II–V). Experimental groups were divided on the basis of the dosage of extract to the animals as follows: 150mg/kg body weight (Group I), 200mg/kg body weight (Group II) and 250mg/kg body weight (Group IV) while Group V received Sildenafil citrate (5mg/kg body weight). Animals were fed PO with saline or extract or standard drug once in a day for 45 days. To analyse the mating behaviour, female rats with oestrus phase were used. Results: The extract administered PO significantly increased the mounting frequency, intromission frequency and ejaculation latency, and decreased the mounting latency, intromission latency, post-ejaculatory interval and inter-intromission interval. The potency test significantly increased erections, quick flips, long flips and total reflex. Therefore, the results indicated that the ethanolic extracts of Mucuna pruriens Linn. seed produced a significant and sustained increase in the sexual activity of normal male rats at a particular dose (200mg/kg). When compared to control, all the drug-treated groups have shown drug-induced effects for a few parameters. However in Group II, there was an obvious enhancement in all parameters, without affecting the normal behaviour. When compared with the standard drug, the net effect of extract is even less than that in Group II. Conclusions: Therefore, the resulting aphrodisiac activity of the extract lends support to the claim that it has traditionally been used for the treatment of sexual disorders. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

An experimental trial was undertaken to explore the effect of herbal mixture consisiting of Curcuma longa, Coriander sativum, Allium sativum, Andrographis paniculata , and Trigonella foenum graceum by an in ovo assay and the results demonstrated that the ethanolic extracts significantly reduced the virus titres (P < 0.05) with no detectable level of virus being observed in the plant extract treated groups. Phytochemical analysis of the extract revealed the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, saponins, tannins, terpenoids, hydrolysable tannin and glycosides which has been considered as novel antiviral agents and can be considered as a viable means to control the economically important Newcastle disease of poultry. These herbs can thus be recommended for its antiviral property and can very well be used as a substitute over the conventionally used antibiotics owing to its synergistic effect to control secondary bacterial infections. Thus the problems of drug resistance and drug residues in poultry meat arising out of usage of synthetic drugs can be minimized and thereby assuring safety and quality. However, in vivo trials are needed to validate the use of this herbal mixture in controlling New castle disease in chickens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Ground corn tassels, a by-product of corn, were used as a source of phenolic compounds. Water, ethanol, methanol, acetone, hexane, chloroform, butanol, petroleum ether and methylene chloride were evaluated as different polarity solvents to extract these phenolic compounds. Ethanol exhibited the highest extraction ability for such phenolic compounds, followed by methanol and water, where the total phenols were 0.1575%, 0.1125% and 0.0737%, respectively. Antioxidant activity of corn tassels ranged from 83.0% to 85.2%, 69.9% to 83.7%, 69.8% to 80.4%, 22.2% to 49.1% and 14.8% to 19.3% radical scavenging activity (% RSA) for ethanol, methanol, acetone, butanol and water extracts, respectively. The ethanolic extract of the corn tassels was successfully utilised to retard the oxidation of sunflower oil and the obtained induction period values were comparable to those of tert-butylhydroquinone (TBHQ). [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Dendrophthoe falcata (L.f) Ettingsh (Loranthaceae) of the order Santalales, is used ethnomedicinally for treating ulcers, asthma, impotence, paralysis, skin diseases, and wounds. In this context, validations of the ethnotherapeutic claims of the plant in wound healing activity was studied, besides anti-microbial activity and antioxidant activity were performed to understand the mechanism of wound healing potency. The ethanolic extract of aerial parts of Dendrophthoe falcata ethanolic extract (DFEE) was investigated for the evaluation of its healing efficiency on excision and incision wound models in rats. The results showed that Dendrophthoe falcata extract has potent wound healing capacity as evident from the wound contraction and increased tensile strength. Hydroxyproline and hexosamine expressions were also well correlative with the healing pattern observed. Three of the fractions A–C (petroleum ether, chloroform and ethanol, respectively) obtained from the extract exhibited significant antimicrobial activity against the organisms: Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus pyogenes, Staphylococcus epidermidis, Micrococcus luteus, Bacillus subtilis, Bacillus cereus, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Enterobacter aerogenes, Pseudomonas aeroginosa, Serratia marcescens, and five fungi Candida albicans, Candida tropicalis: dimorphic fungi, Aspergillus fumigatus, Aspergillus niger: systemic fungi, and some infectious bacteria Escherichia coli, and Salmonella typhi. The results also indicated that DFEE possesses potent antioxidant activity by inhibiting lipid peroxidation, reduced glutathione, superoxide dismutase levels and increased the catalase activity. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Selenium-enriched green tea is now being increasingly produced in China and is well known as a bioactive beverage, due to its high content of active components. In this study, the antioxidant and anticancer activities of an ethanolic extract and an aqueous extract of Se-enriched green tea were investigated. The results indicated that the ethanolic extract possessed significantly higher antioxidant activity than the aqueous extract and the positive control α-tocopherol, by both α,α-diphenyl-β-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical-scavenging and ferric thiocyanate (FTC) assays. The ethanolic extract inhibited the proliferation of human cervical adenocarcinoma HeLa cell and possessed a significantly higher antitumour activity than the aqueous extract and the positive control 5-fluorouracil (5-FU), in the dose range of 62.5–250μg/ml. Moreover, the ethanolic extract could significantly inhibit the growth of lung carcinoma A549 and hepatoma HepG2 in a concentration-dependent manner, with IC50 values of 278.6μg/ml and 431.6μg/ml, respectively. Selenium, tea polyphenols and polyphenols constituents, especially epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), were significantly higher in the ethanolic extract than in the aqueous extract, which were possibly responsible for the higher antioxidant and antitumour activities of the ethanolic extract. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]