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This survey was conducted to document the distribution, market potential, medicinal properties, and conservation status of wild food plants (WFPs) which are consumed by local communities of poor socioeconomic background, residing near the Pakistan-Afghan border. Data were collected via semi-structured during 2017–2020 and a total of 288 informers were interviewed in a different locality. In this survey, a total of 95 WFPs species of 39 families and 58 genera were documented. Among these WFPS, 70% of species are ethno-medicinally known. August was the peak month for the accessibility of WFPs (i.e., 17%). The most consumed parts were leaves (37%) and fruit (36%). Plant species of 36 families out of 39 were marketable and reported for the first time, which was further interrelated with taste, ethnobotanical, ethnomedicinal value, FC, and relative frequency of citation (RFC). Rhamnaceae and Rosaceae were the dominant families with the highest number of frequencies of citation (FC) and number of species. The highest FC (77) and RFC (0.267) were calculated for Ziziphus jujuba. This study presents the market potential and distribution of the WFPs for the first time in a war-affected zone. These findings would facilitate local people along the Pakistan-Afghan border and researchers to utilize WFPs to fulfill food requirements. We suggest that further pharmacological and biological assessments of these plants can contribute to economic prosperity, and increase the dietary diversity of this region.

Light is an essential natural factor of fish growth and development. A light regime in indoor aquaculture is critical for sustainable fish production. This research aimed to investigate the effect of light intensity and photoperiod on the growth performance and stress response of Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus), which is an important commercial species, in a recirculating aquaculture system (RAS). Fingerlings with an average weight of 5 ± 0.9 g were randomly assigned to nine 1.5 m3 tanks with 145 fish in each tank, cultured under different light intensities (1000, 2000, and 3000 lx) and photoperiods (12L:12D, 18L:6D, 24L:0D), and fed to apparent satiation twice a day for 160 days. The growth of tilapia subjected to 2000 lx was significantly better than that exposed to 1000 and 3000 lx (P 0.05). Light intensity and photoperiod manipulation did not cause a significant chronic stress response in tilapia. This study demonstrated that light intensity, especially at 2000 lx, and photoperiod manipulation could stimulate the growth of tilapia in the RAS and significantly affect economic profitability. This study also served as an important reference for tilapia indoor aquaculture.

Clove basil (Ocimum gratissimum L.) is an aromatic, perennial herb belonging to the family Lamiaceae. The plant is indigenous to tropical areas especially India and West Africa. In Nigeria, it is found in the Savannah and coastal areas. The whole herbs of the plant contain essential oils and it is cultivated for various purposes. The plant is a rich source of eugenol in its essential oil. It is also used in the preparation of tea and infusions. It is also used in the treatment of fungal infections, fever, cold, and cough. Eugenol (4-allyl-2-methoxy phenol) is a phenolic compound from the class of phenylpropanoids. It is used in the food industry as a preservative, mainly due to its antioxidant property, and flavoring agent. The fresh herb × winter season/environment produced the highest essential oil 2.07 mL/plot with essential oil content 0.41% followed by fresh herb × summer season/environment (M1S2) = 1.68 mL. For the eugenol content, the autumn season/environment was found highly favorable = 74.52% (leaves = 69.024, stem = 74.531, and in inflorescence = 80.012) followed winter season/environment 72.30% (leaves = 71.841, stem 69.389, inflorescence 76.042, mean = 72.42%). These seasons are recommended for harvesting to obtain the optimum benefit for the quality essential oil yield.

Establishing suitable salt tolerant all-male tilapia strains with fast growth rate is a crucial requirement for successful euryhaline farming required for controlling prolific breeding and as an adaptation to the effect of climate-induced drought. This study assessed the percentage of tilapia male hybrids, their growth performance and survival rate produced by crossing female Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) and male Rufiji tilapia (Oreochromis urolepis urolepis) at different salinities. The fingerlings were reared for 70 days in triplicate concrete tanks (1 m3), each stocked with 15 fish weighing 1.62 ± 0.03 g, 1.69 ± 0.02 g and 1.41 ± 0.06 g exposed to 2, 15 and 35 ppt salinities, respectively. Acclimatization was done by adding seawater to freshwater at a rate of 2 ppt per day for 18 days. Fish sexing was done by visual assessment of the genital papilla followed by rearing the hybrids for six months to observe reproduction. Results showed that, the cross between O. niloticus (female) and O. urolepis urolepis (male) produced hybrids that were all-males without any reproduction within six months post hybridization. The hybrids reared at a salinity of 2 ppt had higher growth performance than those reared at 15 and 35 ppt. Similarly, hybrids cultured at 15 ppt had significantly higher growth performance than those reared at 35 ppt. All the hybrids produced had survival rates of 100%. This study indicated that, all-male tilapia produced by crossing between O. niloticus (female) and O. urolepis (male) can be used by fish farmers as alternative species for mariculture development to control prolific breeding and as an adaptation strategy to climate change.

Background: Fatty liver (fatty liver) or Non-lcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) is an excessive accumulation of fat (lipids) in liver cells. Fatty liver is generally associated with metabolic syndrome, obesity, diabetes, and hyperlipidemia. Insulin resistance causes an increase in the entry of Free Fatty Acids (FFA) into the liver and occurs due to the failure of insulin to suppress hormone-sensitive lipases. Basil contains chemical compounds such as phenolic compounds and flavonoids that act as antioxidants that can ward off free radicals. Experimental animals use mice because they have physiological similarities to humans and are easy to keep experimental animals. Purpose: This study aims to determine the effect of basil extract (Ocimum basilicum L.), the effective dose and the duration of the effective dose in reducing SGOT and SGPT levels. Methods Research: The research design used was a descriptive research design. Literature review using the PubMed database and ncbi.mlm.nih.gov using keywords used in data searches to search for journals related to basil extract, SGOT, SGPT, rats, and high-fat diets. Results: The results of the research from 8 journals that have been reviewed found that the levels of SGOT and SGPT had decreased significantly. Basil extract (Ocimum basilicum L.) has been proven preclinically and clinically to reduce AST and ALT levels. Conclusion: The conclusion that can be drawn is that the extract of basil (Ocimum basilicum L.) can reduce levels of SGOT and SGPT. Keywords: Basil Extract, High Fat Diet, NAFLD, SGOT, SGPT, White Rat

Background Since the last two decades, substantial increase in fungal infections has been observed in immunocompromised hosts. Virulence factors of Candida albicans play a role in adherence, haemolytic activity, phenotypic switching and production of hydrolytic enzymes. The secreted aspartyl proteinases (SAP family) contribute to adhesion, tissue damage and invasion, while phospholipase (PLB) supports the hydrolysis of phospholipids. Very few studies showed the correlation of phenotypic activity and detection of genes contributing to the similar enzyme activity. Therefore, our study aimed at demonstrating correlation between in vitro phenotypic production of phospholipase and proteinase enzymes with genetic level detection of SAP and PLB genes. Methods The present study was carried out on a total of 799 samples over a period of one year. Culturing was carried out on Sabouraud's dextrose agar. Confirmation and speciation of Candida spp. was carried out using cornmeal agar and CHROMagar and by the germ tube test, urease test and automated identification system Vitek-2, and antifungal susceptibility testing was performed on Candida isolates. Phenotypic phospholipase and proteinase activity was analysed, and molecular detection of SAP4 and PLB genes was carried out. Results In our study, we have screened 799 samples for mycological protocol; of which, 269 (33.6%) were Candida species, 44% (119) of which were C. albicans. Proteinase activity was exhibited by 77 (64.7%) and phospholipase activity was exhibited by 73 (61.34%) isolates, while 46.2% exhibited both activities among the C. albicans species. The PLB gene was detected in 97.3% isolates, while SAP4 was detected in 94.7% of C. albicans isolates. Conclusion The study of in vitro expression of virulence factors and gene detection of C. albicans will help to improve the prognosis despite the nature of the sample.

BACKGROUND Postoperative prolonged air leakage is a frequent complication after lung resection. We have developed a new sealant based on a hydrophobically modified Alaska pollock-derived gelatin (ApGltn) sealant. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the adhesive strength of the ApGltn sealant in comparison with a fibrin sealant using a new spray system in ex vivo and in vivo models. METHODS Pleural defects in ex vivo and in vivo porcine models were created, to which the ApGltn sealant or the fibrin sealant was applied. The pressure resistance was assessed with a stepwise increase in airway pressure to confirm air leakage from the sealing site. Tissue samples covered with each sealant were obtained for histologic assessment. RESULTS In the ex vivo experiment, the leak pressures of the ApGltn sealant were significantly greater than those of the fibrin sealant (102.94 ± 15.6 cm H2O and 28.37 ± 5.1 cm H2O, respectively) (P < .01). In the in vivo experiment, the leak pressures of the ApGltn sealant were also significantly greater than those of the fibrin sealant (68.82 ± 18.04 cm H2O and 43.33 ± 7.13 cm H2O, respectively) (P = .043). The histologic examination confirmed that the ApGltn sealant adhered tightly to both the pleura and the surface of the pleural defect. CONCLUSIONS The ApGltn sealant has sufficiently high adhesive quality in ex vivo and in vivo porcine lungs, which could be considered suitable and effective for use in the prevention of air leakage from the lungs.

The composition of the gut microbiome is linked to multiple diseases, including Parkinson’s disease (PD). Bacteria producing short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) and fecal SCFA concentrations are reduced in PD. SCFAs exert various beneficial functions in humans. In the interventional, monocentric, open-label clinical trial RESISTA-PD (NCT02784145) we aimed at altering fecal SCFAs by an 8-week prebiotic intervention with resistant starch (RS). We enrolled 87 subjects in three study-arms: 32 PD patients receiving RS (PD + RS), 30 control subjects receiving RS, and 25 PD patients receiving solely dietary instructions. We performed paired-end 100 base pair length metagenomic sequencing of fecal samples using the BGISEQ platform at an average of 9.9 GB. RS was well-tolerated. In PD + RS, fecal butyrate concentrations increased significantly and fecal calprotectin concentrations dropped significantly after 8 weeks of RS. Clinically, we observed a reduction in non-motor symptoms load in PD + RS. The reference-based analysis of metagenomes highlighted stable alpha-diversity and beta-diversity across the three groups, including bacteria producing SCFAs. Reference-free analysis suggested punctual, yet pronounced differences in the metagenomic signature in PD + RS. RESISTA-PD highlights that a prebiotic treatment with RS is safe and well-tolerated in PD. The stable alpha-diversity and beta-diversity alongside altered fecal butyrate and calprotectin concentrations calls for long-term studies, also investigating whether RS is able to modify the clinical course of PD.

Iridoviruses are DNA virus and have caused huge economic losses in the aquaculture industry. The aim of this study was to establish a colorimetric loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) protocol for the on-site detection of Singapore grouper iridovirus (SGIV). The SGIV-VP61 gene was chosen as the target gene to develop a colorimetric LAMP assay. The optimized condition of the colorimetric LAMP assay was incubation at 63 °C for 1 h. Samples infected with SGIV could be detected with the color change from yellow into pink. The sensitivity of the developed assay is 5.66 copies/μL of the viral DNA template. This sensitivity was about 1000 times higher than that of conventional PCR while it was slightly lower than the one-step semi-nested PCR assay. A total of 60 DNA samples extracted from the fin tissue of the SGIV-infected Asian seabass were examined for SGIV by colorimetric LAMP, semi-nested PCR and conventional PCR. The results of the colorimetric LAMP assay showed 94.87 % agreement with the semi-nested PCR. In addition, the DNA extraction method using NaOH showed a better performance in the colorimetric LAMP assay. Taken together, the colorimetric LAMP established was a sensitive, rapid and specific method for the detection of SGIV. SGIV was not detected in samples randomly taken from a genetically improved line of the Asian seabass. However, some seabass obtained from the local markets were found to contain SGIV. Thus, the LAMP assay has the potential application in the diagnosis of iridovirus diseases in the aquaculture industry.

Background For Melatonin, the pineal gland hormone, also known as the neuroendocrine hormone, influences angiogenesis by exerting a positive effect on fibroblast, monocyte, and cytokine proliferation. Formulation and study of characteristics of gelation-based Melatonin sponge crosslinked with fructose using the surfactant foaming and freeze-drying method for wound healing application was the objective of our study. The structure of the formulated gelatin sponge was observed using a scanning electron microscope and showed to have abundant and uniform pores. Characteristics were studied using digestibility test, water uptake test, porosity measurement test, moisture uptake test, tensile strength test, folding endurance test, scanning electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and drug entrapment efficiency analysis. Results The obtained data showed that the formulated sponge had good mechanical properties, water uptake, and water retention capacities. In animal experiments, histological and macroscopic observations showed that wounds covered by gelatin loaded with a Melatonin sponge healed quickly. Conclusion The formulated sponge was a potential wound healing material having suitable physical, mechanical properties and biocompatibility. The graphical abstract is shown in Figure 1.

Taro (Colocasia esculenta) is one of the traditional crops with enormous nutritional and pharmaceutical potential as compared to the other tuber crops. It is evident from the available literature that different plant part of taro contains a combination of bioactive compounds such as tarin, polysaccharides (TPS1 and TPS2), alkaloids, polyphenols, and saponins. Anti-carcinogenic, anti-compulsive, anti-hyperglycemia, anti-hypertensive, anti-inflammatory, hepatoprotective, immunoprotective, and neuroprotective properties have been demonstrated for these bioactive compounds. Taro's unique characteristics, such as the presence of small-sized starch granules, resistant starch type, and hypoallergenic properties, have the potential to elevate its status from underutilized to wonder future crop. Poi is a traditionally processed product of taro that has medicinal properties. Other processed products of taro are taro flour, cookies, noodles, achu and it is also a major constituent of baby food products due to its easily digestible nature. The documentation of traditional uses of taro food products in rural communities, as well as the quantification of bioactive compounds, demonstrate taro's vast potential as functional food products and in drug development. Hence, screening diverse genotypes for bioactive compounds from different continents could aid breeding efforts directed at taro biofortification. Commercialization of taro usage should be considered as a dietary intervention strategy for addressing malnutrition and hidden hunger in poor communities worldwide. In this review, we have comprehensively highlighted the scope of taro as a future food crop with enormous nutritional and antioxidant potential, biotechnological advancements, and the scope for breeding biofortified taro.

BACKGROUND: Endogenously formed advanced glycation end products (AGEs) may be important drivers of microvascular dysfunction and the microvascular complications of diabetes. AGEs are also formed in food products, especially during preparation methods involving dry heat.OBJECTIVES: We aimed to assess cross-sectional associations between dietary AGE intake and generalized microvascular function in a population-based cohort.METHODS: In 3144 participants of the Maastricht Study (mean ± SD age: 60 ± 8 y, 51% men) the dietary AGEs Nε-(carboxymethyl)lysine (CML), Nε-(1-carboxyethyl)lysine (CEL), and Nδ-(5-hydro-5-methyl-4-imidazolon-2-yl)-ornithine (MG-H1) were estimated using the combination of our ultra-performance LC-tandem MS dietary AGE database and an FFQ. Microvascular function was determined in the retina as flicker light-induced arteriolar and venular dilation and as central retinal arteriolar and venular equivalents, in plasma as a z score of endothelial dysfunction biomarkers (soluble vascular adhesion molecule 1 and soluble intracellular adhesion molecule 1, soluble E-selectin, and von Willebrand factor), in skin as the heat-induced skin hyperemic response, and in urine as 24-h albuminuria. Associations were evaluated using multiple linear regression adjusting for demographic, cardiovascular, lifestyle, and dietary factors.RESULTS: Overall, intakes of CML, CEL, and MG-H1 were not associated with the microvascular outcomes. Although higher intake of CEL was associated with higher flicker light-induced venular dilation (β percentage change over baseline: 0.14; 95% CI: 0.02, 0.26) and lower plasma biomarker z score (β: -0.04 SD; 95% CI: -0.08, -0.00 SD), the effect sizes were small and their biological relevance can be questioned.CONCLUSIONS: We did not show any strong association between habitual intake of dietary AGEs and generalized microvascular function. The contribution of dietary AGEs to generalized microvascular function should be further assessed in randomized controlled trials using specifically designed dietary interventions.

Bleeding is when blood is removed from damaged blood vessels and can occur during dental procedures. Curry leaves (Murraya koenigii L.) contain tannins and flavonoids, which have the potential as a hemostatic agent to stop bleeding. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of curry leaf extract (Murraya koenigii L.) on the bleeding time of Wistar rats (Rattus norvegicus). The test animals used were 5 Wistar rats (Rattus norvegicus), which were divided into a control group that was applied with distilled water and the treatment group with the extract of curry leaves. The first treatment group was given a concentration of 25%, the second treatment group had a concentration of 50%, the third treatment group had a concentration of 75%, and the fourth treatment group had a concentration of 100%. Bleeding time was calculated using the Duke method on the tail of the rats. The results showed that curry leaf extract concentrations of 25%, 50%, 75%, and 100% were able to shorten the bleeding time with an average time of 140 seconds, 81.67 seconds, 138.33 seconds, and 73.33, respectively. Second. One-way ANOVA data analysis showed that the bleeding time in all treatment groups was significantly different from the control group (p 0.05). This study concludes that the extract of curry leaves (Murraya koenigii L.) affects the bleeding time in Wistar rats (Rattus norvegicus).

Carmine, a commonly used natural red dye, can cause immediate and delayed allergic reactions, which are frequently overlooked.To assess the incidence of carmine allergy and its clinical significance based on the placebo-controlled oral challenge in urticaria patients and suspected hypersensitivity to food additives.Patients' histories were recorded by means of a standardized questionnaire. The subjects underwent skin prick tests and patch tests for carmine, while the level of specific IgE was measured in 52 patients. The patients with at least one positive carmine test or with suspected hypersensitivity to carmine were suggested to undergo a placebo-controlled oral challenge test.One hundred and ten patients were enrolled in the study. Carmine skin testing was positive in 22 patients: skin prick tests were positive in 17% (Carmine is a potential allergen in patients with chronic inducible urticaria especially with concomitant systemic symptoms. Skin tests and specific IgE level measurement may be helpful tools to diagnose E120 hypersensitivity.

The study was executed to find out the potential effects spent coffee ground (SCG) on Nile tilapia's skin mucosal and serum immunities, disease prevention, and growth rate reared in a biofloc system. Nile tilapia fingerlings (average weight 15.25 ± 0.07 g) were disseminated into 15 aquaria (150 L tank−1) at a density of 20 fish per aquarium and treated five diets: SCG1 (control), SCG2 (10 g kg−1), SCG3 (20 g kg−1), SCG4 (40 g kg−1), and SCG5 (80 g kg−1) for eight weeks. A Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with three replications was applied. Growth rate, skin mucus, and serum immunities were quantified every 4 weeks; whereas the challenge study was conducted at the termination of the feeding trial. The outputs indicated that dietary incorporation of SCG give rise to the enhancement of SGR and FCR in comparison with the control, with best levels noted in fish fed SCG2 diet. Similarly, significant enhancements in skin mucosal and serum immunities were revealed in fish treated SCG2 over the control and other SCG diets. Likewise, higher survival rates against Streptococcus agalactiae were displayed in fish fed SCG, with the maximum level displayed in the fish treated SCG2. In conclusion, dietary supplementation of SCG2 (10 g kg−1) can be potential used as immunostimulants in tilapia aquaculture.

Background: Seed abortion is a common phenomenon in Chinese jujube that seriously hinders the process of cross-breeding. However, the molecular mechanisms of seed abortion remain unclear in jujube. Methods: Here, we performed transcriptome sequencing using eight flower and fruit tissues at different developmental stages in Ziziphus jujuba Mill. ‘Zhongqiusucui’ to identify key genes related to seed abortion. Histological analysis revealed a critical developmental process of embryo abortion after fertilization. Results: Comparisons of gene expression revealed a total of 14,012 differentially expressed genes. Functional enrichment analyses of differentially expressed genes between various sample types uncovered several important biological processes, such as embryo development, cellular metabolism, and stress response, that were potentially involved in the regulation of seed abortion. Furthermore, gene co-expression network analysis revealed a suite of potential key genes related to ovule and seed development. We focused on three types of candidate genes, agamous subfamily genes, plant ATP-binding cassette subfamily G transporters, and metacaspase enzymes, and showed that the expression profiles of some members were associated with embryo abortion. Conclusions: This work generates a comprehensive gene expression data source for unraveling the molecular mechanisms of seed abortion and aids future cross-breeding efforts in jujube.

Mesalamine is the first-line choice of drug for ulcerative colitis management. However, due to the nontargeted delivery of mesalamine, it shows side effects. The possible impact of mesalamine can b...

Insects or products derived from insects are considered as a valuable feed ingredient for aquaculture, poultry, and pigs but also exert possible secondary effects of health stimulators in livestock as reported in literature. Health benefits attributed to insects can create additional value in the insect chain. Three categories of bioactive compounds in insects are reported in this desk study: antimicrobial peptides (such as α-helical peptides, cysteine-rich peptides, proline-rich peptides, glycine-rich peptides), fatty acids (especially lauric acid), and polysaccharides (especially chitin and chitosan). The review summarises the recent literature on these three categories. Antimicrobial properties or immuno-modulating effects may contribute to reduce the use of antibiotics and to avoid antibiotic resistance in livestock when these insect products are included in animal diets. Furthermore, antioxidant capacity of insect-proteins might reduce collateral tissue damage. Health stimulating effects of insect products may result in additional applications of insect products in animal feed for livestock.

Peptic ulcer is one of the world’s major gastrointestinal disorders and affecting 10% of the world population. An estimated 15000 deaths occur each year as a consequence of peptic ulcer. The cost of treatment for peptic ulcers is expensive and has side effects. So, it is necessary to conduct research to develop new therapeutic agents for the treatment of stomach ulcers. It is known that medicinal plants are important sources of biologically active molecules with the genetic ability of anti-ulcer. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of using gum arabic Acacia senegal and Moringa oleifera extracts on treatment of peptic ulcer in the experimental rats. Fifty rats were divided into 8 groups (6/each group). One group feeds the basic diet only (positive control group, G+). The remaining 44 rats were infected by aspirin solution to induce peptic ulcer in their stomach. One group of these rats feeds the basic diet only (negative control group, G-). Three groups G1, G2 and G3 feed on the basic diet + gum arabic extract (500, 1000 and 1500 mg/kg of rat weight). The other groups G4, G5, G6 feed the basic diet+ Moringa oleifera extract (800, 1000 and 1200 mg/kg of rat weight). At the end of the experiment (6 weeks), rats were fasted for 12 hours before slaughtering, blood samples were collected to obtain the serum, the stomach was separated for examination and gastric juice was collected to determine the (PH). The results indicated that rats in groups G6 and G3 had the highest increase in number of their WBC and in their HP as compared to (G+). Histological study revealed the absence of histopathological changes in G3 and G6 , while other groups showed mucosal vascular congestion and submucosal edema with inflammatory cell infiltration.

Background and objective Haramonting (Rhodomyrtus tomentosa) is an alternative herb to improve health because it has many biological activities and antioxidant. HSP-70 levels as biomarkers of preeclampsia affected the anti-apoptosis of damaged cells in the placenta. This study aimed to evaluate the role of HSP-70 expressions by investigating whether effect haramonting leaves in PE rats. Materials and methods The study design was control (C): pregnant rats without treatment, PE: Preeclamptic rats, PE+E: PE rats were given 1 mL EVOO kg-1 b.wt./day orally (pregnancy 13-19), PE+H: PE rats were given nano herbal haramonting 100 mg kg-1 b.wt. (pregnancy 13-19 days). PE+E+H: PE rats were given EVOO 0.5 mL kg-1 b.wt. and nano herbal haramonting 50 mg kg-1 b.wt. (pregnancy 13-19 day). Surgery was performed by taking blood from the heart for the SGOT/SGPT parameters, creatinine and HSP70. Results A significant difference was observed in all groups with the value p 0.05). Conclusion These findings indicate that Nano herbal haramonting and EVOO possess antioxidative effects and a promising drug for the future in the treatment of preeclampsia.

BACKGROUND: Pandora sp. nov. inedit. (Entomophthorales: Entomophthoraceae) (ARSEF 13372) is a recently isolated entomophthoralean fungus with potential for psyllid pest control. This study aimed to develop a formulation based on biocompatible hydrogel beads in order to transfer the fungus into an easily applicable form and to test the effects on psyllids. RESULTS: After encapsulation in calcium alginate beads, Pandora sp. nov. grew from the beads and discharged conidia over 12 days under optimal humidity conditions at 18 °C. Conidial number was increased 2.95-fold by the addition of skimmed milk as nutritional formulation adjuvant to the beads. The virulence of the encapsulated fungus was assessed with the two target psyllid species; the summer apple psyllid, Cacopsylla picta and the pear psyllid, Cacopsylla pyri. Beads containing skimmed milk as nutritional adjuvant led to the highest mortalities (48.3% on C. picta and 75.0 % on C. pyri). In a second bioassay, survival time of C. pyri exposed to beads containing different concentration (10, 20 or 40%) of Pandora sp. nov. was tested. The survival time of C. pyri was significantly reduced when exposed to beads containing 10% or 20% Pandora sp. nov. The median survival time was reached after 5-6 days past inoculation and the cumulative mortality for C. pyri treated with Pandora sp. nov. beads showed up to 89% mortality. CONCLUSION: The promising results of this study will ease the way for large-scale field application of a novel Pandora species in biological psyllid pest control.

Human population has continued to increase unabatedly with its attendant demands on food in order to ease the difficulties of malnutrition and starvation. This continuous rise in population has clearly indicated that the conventional forms of livestock production and captured fisheries will not be sufficient to solve the problem of high protein demands. Aquaculture remains the best option that can bridge the wide gap between human protein demands and domestic production through the culture of fish species like Nile Tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus).Oreochromis niloticusis one of the most cultured finfish, due to its acceptability as food, fast growth, availability for farmers, ability to breed in captivity, resistance to diseases and harsh environmental conditions. Despite all these outstanding characteristics, there is still high level of apathy in commercial production of Nile Tilapia, due to its precocious maturity and uncontrolled breeding, which results in overpopulation of ponds, stunted growth and low commercial value. To mitigate this challenge, the use of synthetic hormones such as 17α-methyl testosterone has been developed to masculinize female tilapia present in a pond, thereby allowing the production of marketable sized fish since the male grows faster than the female. Though, the use of synthetic hormones has helped in some ways, but the negative effects have necessitated farmers to seek alternatives that are environmental friendly and safe for consumers. Dietary phytochemicals have been established to be good alternatives and their use is now gaining global acceptance. Dietary phytochemicals are bioactive compounds commonly found in plant-based diets such as fruits, vegetables, grains and teas. Dietary phytochemicals when administered to newly hatched tilapia species, influences the undifferentiated gonadal tissue of generic females to develop testicular tissue, thus functioning reproductively as males. Some of these phytochemicals such as Flavonoids, Saponins, Phenolics and Alkaloids are found in plants likeCarica papayaseeds,Azadirachta indica, andMucuna pruriens. The usefulness of these phytochemicals is based on their ability to influence sex reversal inOreochromis niloticus, cost effect, easily accessible especially by small scale fish farmers, simple to apply, and being safe for both human and the environment since they are more biodegradable than synthetic hormones.

Purpose Maintenance hemodialysis (MHD) patients are at high risk of sarcopenia. Gut microbiota affects host metabolic and may act in the occurrence of sarcopenia importantly. This study aimed to study the characterization of the gut microbiota in MHD patients with sarcopenia, and to further reveal the complex pathophysiology of sarcopenia in MHD patients. Methods Fecal samples and clinical data were collected from 30 MHD patients with sarcopenia, and 30 age-and-sex-matched MHD patients without sarcopenia in 1 general hospital of Jiangsu Province from December 2020 to March 2021. 16S rRNA sequencing technology was used to analyze the genetic sequence of the gut microbiota for evaluation of the diversity, species composition, and differential microbiota of the two groups. Results Compared to MHD patients without sarcopenia, the ACE index of patients with sarcopenia was lower (P = 0.014), and there was a structural difference in the β-diversity between the two groups (P = 0.001). At the genus level, the relative abundance of Tyzzerella_4 in the sarcopenia group was significantly higher than in the non-sarcopenia group (P = 0.039), and the relative abundance of Megamonas (P = 0.004), Coprococcus_2 (P = 0.038), and uncultured_bacterium_f_Muribaculaceae (P = 0.040) decreased significantly. Conclusion The diversity and structure of the gut microbiota of MHD patients with sarcopenia were altered. The occurrence of sarcopenia in MHD patients may be influenced by gut microbiota.

Tilapia (Oreochromis spp.) aquaculture is one of the fastest growing segments of the seafood industry. Tilapia is a lean, low-fat fish, with minimal fishy odor that is often associated with fatty f...

The present work shows the results of a seven-year project aimed at rescuing the winter squash (Cucurbita maxima Duchesne) landrace ‘Berrettina di Lungavilla’, which is grown in the Po flood plain (Northern Italy). The local community was involved in the rescue project, according to a participative breeding technique. The steps of project development were: (i) establishment of a working group and plant material collection, (ii) genetic and morphological analysis of survived germplasm, (iii) recovery by selection of original traits and (iv) biochemical assessment in comparison to other winter squash varieties. As long as the rescue of ‘Berrettina di Lungavilla’ progressed, it was observed an increasing differentiation of morphological, genetic and biochemical traits compared to control cultivars. At the same time, the polymorphic characters of the initial pool of plants, from which the selection had started, turned to well defined morphological and genetic traits of the recovered landrace. In comparison to the other tested varieties, ‘Berrettina di Lungavilla’ landrace showed a higher dry matter content, a higher level of sucrose and a significant retention of some antioxidants after storage, such as vitamin C and total carotenoids. The combination of these biochemical traits could justify the good storability of the landrace. Anyway, the recovery of this landrace is only a preliminary step of its rescue. A careful analysis of factors which led to the decline of the crop is needed: it is the fundamental basis on which planning a strategy of long-term germplasm conservation.

Bambara groundnut (Vigna subterranea) is a drought-tolerant legume in sub-Saharan Africa and is well adapted to marginal agricultural lands. Its seeds have high nutritional value, owing to their pr...

Bacterial respiratory infections are most commonly causes of illness for all age group patients in ICU. Most of the patients suffer from urosepsis, postoperative disease and lower respiratory infection when admitted in ICU’s. The main purpose of this study is control in ICU’s infection & determine their antibiotic sensitivity pattern for better treatment of patients. Bacteriological profile and their antibiogram from endotracheal aspirate and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid samples from intensive care unit patients.We performed manual culture of Endotracheal aspirate & BAL fluid specimens collected from ICU’s patients. Samples were cultured on Blood agar and Mac-Conkey agar then incubated at 37C for 24 hours. Any growth were further confirmed by Gram stain and appropriate biochemical tests, and then Antibiotic sensitivity test was done. Among the 123 mechanically ventilated patients and 68 of them developed positive samples. In this study 55.3% (68) pathogenic isolates, 4.1% (5) were non pathogenic isolates and 40.6 (50) were no growth isolates in BAL and endotracheal aspirate samples. In which 67.6% (46) male and 32.4% (22) female patients. Older population falling in the 40-50 years of age group contributes the majority (27.64%) of the infection undergoing treatment for LRT infection in ICU’s patients in TMMC & RC, Moradabad, and in 70-80 years of age group (4.06%) was less contributes of this infection. Among the causative agents, were most common among gram negatives and was common among the gram positive isolates. In our study more resistance gram positive antibiotics were CIP, E, LE, and most sensitive antibiotics were VA, LZ, GEN and TEI. And gram negative bacteria most resistant antibiotics were OF, CPM, CAZ, CIP, CTR, MRP, LE, IPM, PIT and most sensitive antibiotics were AK, GEN, CL, TGC. In this study we conclude that Gram-negative bacilli were predominant in BAL fluid and endotracheal aspirates of ICU patients. Out of 68 multidrug resistance isolates, 1.47% were MRSA, 41.17% were ESBL and 57.36% were MBL isolates higher rate of ESBL production seen in spp., and higher rate of MBL production in spp.High incidence of VAP and the potential MDR pathogens are a real threat in our ICU’s. Combined approach of judicious antibiotic usage and training programs to health care personnel might be of help in combatting high incidence of antibiotic resistance in our institute.

This study investigated the effects of essential oil odors from Japanese citrus fruits, iyokan (Citrus iyo) and yuzu (Citrus junos), on human psychology and both the autonomic and central nervous systems. The inhalation of both essential oils significantly increased miosis rate and fingertip temperature and could induce parasympathetic dominance by suppressing sympathetic nerve activity. Oxyhemoglobin concentration in the prefrontal cortex increased after the inhalation of yuzu essential oil and decreased after the inhalation of iyokan essential oil. Subjectively, the inhalation of both essential oils reduced the feelings of fatigue and improved the feelings of refreshment, suggesting that the effect of autonomic nervous activity might involve in these psychological changes directly. Moreover, we observed that task performance improved after inhaling yuzu essential oil, which may be due to the increase in oxyhemoglobin concentration in the prefrontal cortex.

BACKGROUND A novel biocompatible sealant composed of Alaska pollock-derived gelatin (ApGltn) has recently shown good burst strength and biocompatibility in a porcine aorta. The purpose of this study was to investigate the bonding strength and biocompatibility of the ApGltn sealant in transected digital nerves of fresh frozen cadavers and in the sciatic nerves of a rat model. METHODS Eighty human digital nerves of fresh frozen cadavers were transected for biomechanical traction testing. They were treated with four surgical interventions: (1) suture plus ApGltn sealant; (2) suture; (3) ApGltn sealant; and (4) fibrin sealant. Forty-three sciatic nerves of male Wistar rats were used for functional and histopathologic evaluation. They were treated with six surgical interventions: (1) suture plus ApGltn sealant; (2) suture; (3) ApGltn sealant; (4) fibrin sealant; (5) resection with a 5-mm gap (10 rats per group); and (6) sham operation (three rats). Macroscopic confirmation, muscle weight measurement, and histopathologic findings including G-ratio were examined 8 weeks after the procedure. RESULTS The maximum failure load of the ApGltn sealant was significantly higher than that of a fibrin sealant (0.22 ± 0.05 N versus 0.06 ± 0.04 N). The maximum failure load of the ApGltn sealant was significantly lower that of suture plus ApGltn sealant (1.37 N) and suture (1.27 N). Functional evaluation and histologic examination showed that sciatic nerves repaired with ApGltn sealant showed similar nerve recovery compared to repair with the suture and fibrin sealant. CONCLUSION The ApGltn sealant showed higher bonding strength and equal effect of nerve regeneration when compared with the fibrin sealant.

Background:: Obesity is a common health concern among all populations and age groups worldwide and is a risk factor that leads to a significant increase in mortality and cardiovascular diseases, type 2 diabetes, metabolic syndrome, stroke, and cancer. Disappointing results and weight regain after stopping lifestyle modification or drug therapy indicate the need for other methods of treatment to achieve better and longer effective results. Objective: In this study, the effect of the Apiaceae plants, including Carum carvi L., Bunium persicum Boiss., Cuminum cyminum L., Anethum graveolens L., Foeniculum Vulgare Mill. and Trachyspermum ammi L., in the TPM to treat obesity, were compared to modern database covering all in vivo and clinical trials on animal models or humans. Method: In TPM sources, we used the keywords, "Saman-e- Mufrat", "Hazāl", and "Mohazzel”. Each of the six plants were searched in the electronic databases, including Pubmed, Scopus, and Embase from 1975 to 1/1/2020 using keywords, namely "body mass", "body weight" and "obesity". Results: The results indicated that six plants had reducing effects on body weight, BMI, fat mass, and appetite in almost all clinical studies on humans and some studies on animals. Conclusion: Since the TPM is a rich source of information about the medicinal properties and effects of medicinal plants, investigating the therapeutic effects of plants from the perspective of TPM can represents the vision of a new horizon in the treatment of many diseases.

Aceh Besar Regency has a relatively large freshwater fishery area. Based on the 2019 BPS, it was recorded that the area of aquaculture in the Jantho area at BBI was 32.10 Ha, while the People's Breeding Unit (UPR) had an area of 15.60 Ha. BBI Jantho produces freshwater fish, namely catfish, gourami, carp, and tilapia. However, every year there is a significant increase in production, namely tilapia with a percentage increase in production of 17%. This increase occurred due to the large demand for tilapia in the market but insufficient production. The problem is that the tilapia seed market is good but the production is lacking. The purpose of this study was to analyze the feasibility of Tilapia hatchery at BBI Jantho Aceh Besar. This research is a case study using primary and secondary data. The analytical tools used are market and marketing aspects, technical and technological aspects, income analysis, Cost Ratio (R/C), Break Event Point (BEP), Return On Investment (ROI). The results of this study indicate from all aspects that this business is profitable and feasible to work on. From the technical and technological aspects, all of them meet criteria such as the location of the tilapia hatchery, the scale of operation, production activities, pond layout and inputs. The market and marketing aspects have used 1 level distribution channels. From the economic aspect where the income is Rp.69,546.042, the R/C value is 2.81, the BEP Production value is 192,270 head 540,000, the BEP value Price is Rp.71/head Rp. 200/head. The ROI value is 181% which indicates that the rate of return on capital for Tilapia Hatchery is 81% greater.

In general, modified starches provided a desirable feature so that they can be used in the food industry like food additive products. The awareness of eating healthy has become very evident. The food industry is willing to produce foods and food ingredients that not only maintain nutrition but also promote health and safety. Tartary buckwheat starch has been isolated to assess the effect of HMT on its digestibility, morphological structure, pasting, thermal and textural properties and compared with common buckwheat, sorghum, and broomcorn millet. HMT changed significantly the granular structure of native starches. The complete starch granular structure increased the size and changed into an irregular shape, with a rough surface. The modified starches exhibited higher onset and peak temperatures, while their amylose content, solubility, swelling power, gel hardness, and enthalpy of gelatinization were significantly reduced. In pasting properties, tartary buckwheat and sorghum modified starch had the highest thermal treatment stability with lower setback and breakdown viscosity. Moreover, after three hours of starch hydrolysis; Resistant (RS) starch was higher in tartary buckwheat followed by broomcorn millet and lastly sorghum. In this study, we reported that tartary buckwheat modified starch is more useful in the preparation of food with thermal stability combined with a high amount of resistant starch.

Aquaculture industry in Malaysia involves culture of many fish species of either fresh or brackish water origin and among the important fish species are Snakehead, Tilapia and Catfish. There is a substantial culture of these fish in Malaysia nowadays, though there are not one hundred percent native fish species but their presence in Malaysia is getting closer to over several decades and for almost a decade now, these species had been among the highest finfish produced in either fresh or brackish waters. As the global aquaculture production continue growing in order to meet up with ever increasing fish demand, especially as fish from capture has levelled off and makes an increase in aquaculture production as the only hope to meet the demand for fish, one of suggested ways in culturing them is by venturing into integrated fish farming. Integrated fish farming of different species is a practice which links together two or more normally separate farming systems, whereby the fish from different species become subsystems of a whole farming system. Although integrated fish farming may not be huge globally based on the available official statistical data but it is becoming important industry in Malaysia and neighboring countries. This review discussed briefly about the integrated fish farming of three commercially popular species (Snakehead, Tilapia and Catfish) in Malaysia and neighboring countries.

Fermented vegetables are produced by the growth of different microorganisms present in raw products. Yeasts are essential in food fermentations, but they are also potential spoilage agents that can cause several alterations to the final product. This review provides an overview of the most relevant spoilage yeasts present in fermented vegetables, such as table olives, fermented pickles, and sauerkraut, and the strategies that can be followed to prevent their presence in the final product by extending their shelf life. Conventional treatments have been applied for years to fermented products to reduce or control microbial contamination. In this group, although the application of thermal treatments and the use of chemical additives are remarkable, these technologies have some drawbacks. Nowadays, the food industry seeks techniques that are lethal to spoilage microorganisms, but have no adverse effects on the nutritional value, organoleptic characteristics, and beneficial product microbiota. Non-thermal technologies, such as high hydrostatic pressure, UV-C light, and electrolyzed oxidizing water treatments, applied alone or combined, are effective alternatives to conventional preservation treatments to achieve secure fermented vegetables with a high quality.

Manila Bay contributes significantly to the Philippines’ economy through industry, trade, tourism, and agriculture. However, microbiological contamination in the bay is putting it at risk in the present. Pathogen contamination of the water poses a serious threat to food safety, implicating public health. To address these concerns, the present study examined the prevalence of Salmonella in six different aquaculture commodities, Perna viridis (mussel), Crassostrea iridalei (oyster), Scylla serrata (crab), Penaeus spp. (shrimp), Oreochromis niloticus (tilapia), and Chanos chanos (milkfish), as well as in environmental water from growing areas. A tandem approach of culture-based and real-time PCR methods for the isolation and identification of Salmonella was carried out. To accurately identify the isolates, a real-time PCR Taqman assay based on the invA gene was used. Among the fishery resources examined, no positive samples were observed from C. chanos and O. niloticus. In addition, Salmonella was found in twenty (20) samples, representing 16.26% of all aquaculture commodities collected. Furthermore, Salmonella was found in 13.58% of the 81 environmental water samples examined. P. viridis had the highest prevalence of 55.55% out of 18 samples examined. Samples contaminated with Salmonella failed to meet the regulatory limits set by BFAR FAO 210 series 2001 and EC No. 2073/2005. In addition, it was observed that the sample matrix had a significant impact on the presence of Salmonella (p &lt, 0.05). However, the spatial and temporal distribution of Salmonella did not vary greatly (p &gt, 0.05). This study underscores the importance of imposing strict policies by regulatory bodies to prevent diseases, thus avoiding severe health implications.

New distributional data are here presented for the genera Clanoptilus Motschulsky 1854 and Malachius Fabricius 1775 in the East-Mediterranean region. Malachius saltinii n.sp. is described from Lebanon.

Apricot is an important good produced in Turkey in terms of its quantities of production and economic value. As it needs intensive labour in both cultivation and marketing, apricot production crates a large amount of employment opportunities. Unfortunately, apricot producers have faced a new serious pest damage in recent years. This pest causes significant apricot yield losses by feeding over apricot flowers. Therefore, identification of the pest is important to take immediate measures. This study was conducted at apricot orchards in the province of Malatya in 2015–2016. Field studies and surveys were carried out weekly from the beginning of February to the second week of April. During the surveys, adults and larvae were collected and prepared for molecular analyses and morphological identification. Contarinia pruniflorum Coutin & Rambier (Diptera: Cecidomyiidae) was identified by molecular characterisation and morphological analyses by a specialist. This study is the first in terms of molecular characterisation of C. pruniflorum by using COI gene sequence. Identification of this pest provides an idea about which control method should be used and when such measures should be taken. In this study, we reconstructed the molecular phylogeny and analysed the genetic difference of C. pruniflorum by using mitochondrial COI sequences.

There are many medicinal plants that have been used for thousands of years. These plants can now be found in herbal products and as part of the traditional Malaysian health care system because of their therapeutic efficacy. This paper discusses the use of ten medicinal plants in the traditional medicinal system of Malaysia and related scientific studies on their Pharmaceutical properties, which demonstrate their traditional uses. The plants viewed are Amaranthus spinosus L., Arundina graminifolia (D.Don) Hochr., Callicarpa arborea Roxb., Carica papaya L., Citrus grandis L., Coleus amboinicus Lour., Curcuma domestica Valeton., Psidium guajava L., Garcinia atroviridis Griff. ex T. Anders., and Zingiber officinale Rosc. All the plants mentioned in this paper have therapeutic properties, which explains and validates their uses in traditional medicine.

BACKGROUND: Dadiah, traditional yogurt from Indonesia, which is known as a source of probiotics, also contains micronutrients. AIM: This descriptive study aimed to determine whether additional ingredients and processes during the manufacture of Dadiah pudding maintain the iron, zinc, calcium, and total lactic acid bacteria (LAB) contents. METHODS: Dadiah pudding was made using Dadiah originated from Bukittinggi, West Sumatra. Micronutrient levels were analyzed according to Indonesian National Standard 01-2896-1998. The total LAB were counted by inoculating samples on Man, Rogosa, and Sharpe agar with serial dilution, and morphological identification was carried out using gram stain. RESULTS: In 100 g of original Dadiah, mango and chocolate Dadiah pudding contained 347.98, 276.61, and 279.29 mg of calcium; 4.87, 3.75, and 6.31 mg of zinc; 6.53, 6.60, and 9.39 mg of iron; and 6.4 × 10⁹, 6.1 × 10⁹, and 2.4 × 10⁹ CFU/ml LAB, respectively. CONCLUSION: This study found that modifying the original Dadiah into Dadiah pudding has been proved to affect the concentration of calcium, zinc, and iron and to maintain total LAB. We suggest that consuming Dadiah pudding may be a good choice as a food supplementation for pregnant women to optimize the golden period outcomes.

“San Huang Powder,” a nonsterile milled herb powder, is frequently used to treat burn wounds in traditional Chinese herbal medicine. However, treating a wound with a nonsterile dressing or reagent is not compatible with the current guidelines in modern medicine. Therefore, we investigated the bactericidal and anti-inflammatory activities of four herb extracts used in “San Huang Powder” in vitro. Meanwhile, an in vivo porcine model with superficial second-degree burns was used for the experiments since the size and skin composition of pigs are the closest to that of the human body. The minimal bactericidal concentration (MBC) of the herb extracts was determined. The in vitro assay indicated that Rhubarb and Phellodendron bark extracts decreased the levels of inflammatory cytokines, IL-8, and GM-CSF on LPS-induced HMEC-1 cells. In accordance with this result, the histopathological evaluation results showed that the efficacy of “San Huang Powder” containing both herb materials was much better than the group without Rhubarb. Our results not only provide a basis to understand why “San Huang Powder” has been used to clinically treat wounds without sterilization directly since ancient times but also show the advantages of using multiple herb materials simultaneously on wound sites to prevent infection during treatment. Rhubarb is the recommended ingredient involved in the preparation of “San Huang Powder” to ensure the healing efficacy of burn wounds.

Across its entire range in Australia’s western and southern rangelands, Australian sandalwood (Santalum spicatum [R.Br.] A.DC.) is on a path towards ‘extinction in the wild’––the International Union for the Conservation of Nature’s penultimate category of conservation risk. Sandalwood populations have substantially diminished or become locally extinct, predominantly a consequence of land clearing for agriculture, introduced grazers, disruption of key ecological processes (e.g. seed dispersal, fire regimes) and 175 years of intensive commercial exploitation for its fragrant, high value timber. The status of the world’s last wild-harvested species of sandalwood is significant to both conservation and rangeland management, and the implementation of a science-based sustainable yield approach to management of this species is vital. By highlighting the scale and precipitous rate of decline and identifying key drivers affecting mortality and recruitment, this review outlines the conservation and restoration needs of the species in situ to conserve remaining wild populations, and the need to transition to science-based resource management actions such as farm-based plantation production.

The growth and survival are considered as the crucial factors that should be taken into consideration in any aquaculture system. The experiment was aimed to evaluate the growth performance and subsequent survival rate of the rohu (Labeo rohita) and tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus). It is important to evaluate the growth responses in relation to Feed Conversion Ratio (FCR) and assessment of the total production of the culture unit. As per the recommended stocking density of 320 fishes/decimal in intensive aquaculture system 8 fry per tank was released to assess the growth performance, survival and production of both rohu (T1) and tilapia (T2). During experimental period, there were three replications for each treatment and feed was supplied at the rate of 12%, 8%, and 4% of the body weight of rohu and 20%, 15%, and 10% of the body weight of tilapia in 1st, 2nd and 3rd month for T1 and T2, respectively. The initial weight of individual tilapia was 7.52±1.81 gm and 14.75±0.19 gm for T1 and T2, respectively. The mean final weight was 44.01±4.03 g for T1 and 139.94±1.29 for T2. The weight gains of fish were 36.49±4.09 gm and 125.19±1.29 gm for T1 and T2, respectively. The mean percent weight gain of tilapia was higher in T2 (1715.05±0.00) than T1 (485.23±0.00). The Specific Growth Rates (SGR) of T1 and T2 were found 4.98±2.28 and 6.26 ±3.83, respectively. There was significant difference (p>0.05) in term of SGR between the treatments. Feed Conversion Ratio (FCR) in T1 and T2 were 2.86±0.14 and 2.23±0.18, respectively. Higher total production was obtained in T2 (1119.52 gm) than T1 (278.19 gm) with 100% survival in both the treatments. The water quality parameters for both of the species were within the suitable range. This study reveals a promising arena for fish culture in tank-based intensive aquaculture system as an efficient way of overcoming the scarcity of water and land. This culture system may be an excellent way of producing fish in a small parcel of land with securing the propitious production and expected outcomes within a limited period of time.

Characteristics of the urban environment are sufficient to alter the degree of cytotoxicity of the extract obtained from the leaves of Eugenia uniflora L. Most people in urban environments obtain medicinal plants through their own cultivation. Eugenia uniflora L. is a native shrub of Brazilian restinga that is common in urban areas. The population commonly uses the leaves to treat various diseases, and the Brazilian National Health Service recommends this species. Thus, research is needed to assess the toxicity of medicinal products derived from this plant grown in urban environments and to determine its reliability for use by the population. Therefore, this study evaluated leaves of E. uniflora grown in an urban environment to identify possible chemical and cytotoxical changes. This study presents an integrated analysis of the environmental conditions, physiology and phytochemistry of E. uniflora, in addition to experiments that evaluate the toxic potential of its extract. Chemical analysis of soil and leaves revealed great variation in the plant’s capacity to accumulate chemical elements. Among the chemical elements analysed, lead stands out as it was detected at the concentration limit allowed by World Health Organization in leaves from an urban site. Results of the cytotoxicity analysis revealed significant differences regarding the viability of VERO cells submitted to extract. We suggest that environmental and soil characteristics of the urban site are responsible, at least in part, for the cytotoxic characteristic of E. uniflora leaf extract.