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Graphical abstract, Natural products and traditional medicine are rich sources for developing therapeutics for chronic inflammatory diseases. However, the way from natural products/traditional medicines to Western pharmaceutical practices is not always straightforward. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), chronic diseases are the greatest threat to human health. 3 of 5 people die due to chronic inflammatory disorders worldwide like chronic respiratory diseases, stroke, cardiovascular diseases, cancer, diabetes, and obesity. Various nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are used to reduce inflammation and pain, but there are many side effects of these drugs' administration. Medicinal plants have therapeutic anti-inflammatory effects with low or no side effects. Ziziphus plant species are generally safe and not toxic to humans. Many studies on the Ziziphus species have shown that their therapeutic properties are attributed to the roots, leaves and fruits. Unfortunately, Ziziphus species from different regions worldwide with anti-inflammatory properties have not been documented in a single review paper. Therefore, it is crucial to establish ethnobotanical knowledge and applications of Ziziphus species against chronic inflammatory diseases. The current article exhaustively reviews phytochemical profile, pharmacological studies, toxicological effects, and ethnobotanical uses of Genus Ziziphus in chronic anti-inflammatory diseases. The present review article also highlights the most promising experimental data on Ziziphus extracts and pure compounds active in clinical trials and animal models of chronic inflammatory diseases. This review would be a valuable resource for contemporary researchers in the field to understand the promising role of the Ziziphus genus in chronic inflammatory disorders.

Christ's torn jujube (Ziziphus spina-christi L.) is a medicinal plant that has many benefits for curing or treating diarrhea, fever, and cancer. One of the compounds that play role is an alkaloid. This study was generated to identify the alkaloid compounds in the leaves of the Christ’s jujube torn using the UV-Vis spectrophotometry method. Christ's torn jujube leaves were macerated using 3 types of solvents with different polarity levels i.e., n-hexane, ethyl acetate, and methanol. Furthermore, phytochemical screening of alkaloid compounds was carried out. A Christ jujube leaf sample that was positive for alkaloids was found in the ethyl acetate extract; then identified using thin layer chromatography with eluent n-hexane: ethyl acetate (8:2), yielding 4 points with an Rf value of 0.25; 0.4 ; 0.52 ; and 0.62. Furthermore, phytochemical screening of alkaloid compounds was carried out. Christ' torn jujube which were positive for alkaloids present in the ethyl acetate extract were identified using thin layer chromatography with n-hexane eluent: ethyl acetate (8:2), yielding four spots with an Rf value of 0.25; 0.4 ; 0.52 ; and 0.62. The four spots were identified using UV-Vis spectrophotometry, obtained a wavelength of 248 ; 268 ; 268 ; and 255. Based on the identification results on the leaf extract, each stain was suspected to contain cantin-6-one alkaloid compounds.

Ziziphus spina‐christi (L.) Willd. is a multi‐purpose plant and is very popular found in local markets because of its high nutritional and medicinal values. The present work was carried out to study morphological and chemical properties of native accessions of this species. There were significant differences among the accessions investigated based on the morphological and chemical characters. Total phenolic content ranged from 4.84 to 49.58 mg/g fresh weight (FW). Total flavonoid content varied from 0.45 to 2.29 mg/g FW. Antioxidant activity measured with DPPH ranged from 0.32 to 16.99 mg/g FW, while it ranged from 6.64 to 84.15 µM FeSO4 FW with the FRAP method. The total phenol content showed significant and positive correlations with total flavonoid content (r = 0.33), antioxidant activity obtained with DPPH (r = 0.85), and antioxidant activity obtained with FRAP (r = 0.54). The ward dendrograms divided the accessions studied into two major clusters based on morphological and chemical characteristics. Based on the traits related to fruit quality such as fruit weight, fruit skin color, and fruit flavor, as well as in terms of chemical characteristics related to medicinal properties such as total flavonoids and antioxidant activity, 17 accessions were superior that could be used in breeding programs or cultivated directly. The present results can be used in defining conservation strategies, genetic improvement, and crop production., Based on the traits related to fruit quality, 17 accessions were superior that could be used in breeding programs or cultivated directly.

Agrobacterium tumefaciens is one of the most serious pathogenic bacteria. It is responsible for one of the most devastating crown diseases that account for the maximum yield loss and quality attributes of the ber (Ziziphus mauritiana) fruit plant. Powdery mildew of ber incited by Oidiumerysiphoides f. sp. ziziphi is the most important disease that causes maximum reduction in yield and quality of ber fruits. In the present work, we have carried out the spectroscopic investigations on healthy and bacterial crown gall diseased ber fruits (Ziziphus mauritiana) in order to detect the chemical changes that may take place in the elemental and molecular composition of the ber fruits with the occurrence of crown gall on their surface. Laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) was used for the elemental analysis and FTIR spectroscopy was employed to understand the change in molecular components such as sugar and starch, carbohydrates, fats, lipids, and proteins. LIBS results revealed the decreasing trends of mineral elements calcium (Ca), and increasing trends of magnesium (Mg), potassium (K), silicon (Si), manganese (Mn), and sodium (Na) in diseased samples as compared with healthy samples. Partial least square discriminant analysis (PLS-DA) of the LIBS data has been carried out to find out the differences among the different sample classes. We were able to distinguish healthy fruit samples as compared with diseased ones on the basis of their elemental differences using PLS-DA method. It has been concluded that the chemical changes (elemental and molecular) observed in the ber fruit samples were basically due to the infestation by Agrobacterium tumefaciens, which was further confirmed by the isolation method.

Indian Jujube (Ziziphus mauritiana) is rich in minerals, vitamin C and amino acids. Jujube juice was converted into a powder by foam mat drying (FMD) using a minimum amount of maltodextrin. For FMD, drying temperature (Td; 45 °C, 55 °C, 65 °C), egg albumin (EA; 5, 10, and 15%) and maltodextrin (7%) were used as process parameters and optimized by RSM coupled with FFD. Solubility (84–79.7%) and L* (82.3–75.4) value of product decreased on increasing process parameters. Flowability decreased on increasing the EA concentration and drying temperature (≤ 55 °C) and thereafter increased. Total phenolic content (TPC) decreased with Td and increased with EA (≤ 11%) and thereafter decreased. Solubility, flowability, TPC, colour, aroma and taste showed a quadratic model. Models were validated by re-experimenting at optimum conditions which were found to 54.91 °C (Td), 11.563% (EA) with solubility (86.66%), flowability (1.109), TPC (20.769 mgGAE)/100 g), colour (ΔE; 11.7), aroma (6.565) and taste (6.717) having 81.3% desirability.

The fruit of Indian jujube (Ziziphus mauritiana Lam.) has a long history of therapeutic use and prevention of disease, including anticancer, anti-inflammation and anti-obesity, and antioxidant properties. Indian jujube fruit is rich in polyphenols, cyclopeptide alkaloids, dammarane saponins, vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and polyunsaturated fatty acids. In this experiment, fruits from 14 genotypes of Indian jujube were evaluated for total phenol content (TPC) and antioxidant capacity by scavenging ABTS+ free radicals. Since the sugar contents of fruits were high, after extraction with methanol (MeOH), fractionation was carried out by ethyl acetate (sugar-free fraction) and water (sugar fraction). In the sugar-free fraction higher TPC was observed than the aqueous fraction, also the sugar-free fraction showed greater antiradical efficiency. TPC ranged from about 40 to 80 mg gallic acid equivalent (GAE) g-1 for sugar-free fraction and about 15 to 50 mg GAE g-1 for the aqueous fraction. Antioxidant capacity according to ABTS+ radical scavenging activity of sugar-free fraction was between 12.84 and 48.6 μg mL-1 Trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity (TEAC), and for aqueous fraction ranged from 19.68 to 1065.67 μg mL-1 TEAC.

Les séquelles, après un accident vasculaire cérébral, sont importantes et les patients handicapés moteurs très nombreux. La présente étude a pour objectif de définir le profil phytochimique des cinq plantes les plus utilisées pour traiter les séquelles des AVC en Côte d’Ivoire, d’évaluer leur capacité antioxydante et leur toxicité. Après le screening phytochimique, la teneur en phénols et flavonoïdes ont été quantifiés par la méthode colorimétrique de Folin-Ciocalteu. L’évaluation quantitative du potentiel antioxydant des extraits a été réalisée in vitro par le test au DPPH (1,1-diphényl-2-picryl-hydrazyle). Les tests ont mis en évidence la présence de polyphénols, de tanins et de flavonoïdes dans tous les extraits aqueux. Ces métabolites sont importants dans la prévention et le traitement des maladies cardio-vasculaires. Les taux les plus élevés de polyphénols sont présents dans les extraits aqueux d’écorce de tige de Ficus mucuso (83425,29 μg EAG/g MS) et de rameaux feuillés de Zizyphus mauritiana (74517,24 μg EAG/g MS). La plus forte teneur en flavonoïdes a été observée dans l’extrait aqueux de rameaux feuillés de Ziziphus mauritiana (20,28%). Des capacités antioxydantes importantes ont été observées dans les extraits aqueux du mélange écorces de tige/feuilles de Tamarindus indica (CI50 = 0,1269 mg/ml) et dans l’extrait d’écorce de tige de Ficus mucuso (0,1335 mg/ml). Les tests de toxicité aigüe montrent que l’extrait aqueux de l’écorce de tige de Ficus mucuso, par voie orale, à 5000 mg/kg de pc, est légèrement toxique chez les souris.Mots clés : AVC, séquelles, plantes médicinales, phytochimie, toxicité. English Title: Phytochemistry, antioxidant activity and acute toxicity of medicinal plants used against the sequelae of stroke in Côte d’IvoireThe sequelae after a stroke are significant and there are many patients with motor disabilities. The purpose of this study is to define the phytochemical profile of the five plants most used to treat the sequelae of stroke in Côte d'Ivoire, to assess their antioxidant capacity and their toxicity. After the phytochemical screening, the content of phenols and flavonoids were quantified by the colorimetric method of Folin-Ciocalteu. The quantitative evaluation of the antioxidant potential of the extracts was carried out in vitro by the DPPH (1,1-diphenyl-2-picryl-hydrazyl) test. The tests revealed the presence of polyphenols, tannins and flavonoids in all the aqueous extracts. These metabolites are important in the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular disease. The highest levels of polyphenols are found in aqueous extracts of stem bark of Ficus mucuso (83425.29 μg EAG/ g DM) and leafy twigs of Zizyphus mauritiana (74,517.24 μg EAG / g DM). The highest content of flavonoids was observed in the aqueous extract of leafy twigs of Ziziphus mauritiana (20.28%). Significant antioxidant capacities were observed in the aqueous extracts of the stem bark / leaf mixture of Tamarindus indica (IC50 = 0.1269 mg / ml) and in the extract of the stem bark of Ficus mucuso (0.1335 mg / ml). Acute toxicity tests show that the aqueous extract of the stem bark of Ficus mucuso, taken orally, at 5000 mg / kg bw, is slightly toxic in mice.Keywords: Stroke, sequelae, medicinal plants, phytochemistry, toxicity.

Softening is one of the main factors affecting market value and consumer preferences for jujubes, and it was closely related to the modification and depolymerization of pectin. Changes in characteristics of three pectins (water-soluble pectin (WSP), sodium carbonate-soluble pectin (SSP) and chelate-soluble pectin (CSP)), including their contents, degree of methylesterification (DM), neutral sugar compositions, the molecular weight (Mw ) distributions and nanostructures, from two jujube fruits cv Dongzao (DZ) and Jinsixiaozao (JS) during cold storage were assessed. The results showed that variation in pectin characteristics during cold storage was similar between DZ and JS. The reduction of firmness corresponded to a conversion of water-insoluble pectin to WSP during cold storage. DM of WSP presented an increase trend in the late storage. Rhamnose (Rha), arabinose (Ara) and glucose (Glc) were the crucial compositions in three pectins, and most neutral sugar compositions in three pectins first increased and then decreased during cold storage. Changes in the ratio of (galactose (Gal)+Ara)/Rha and Ara/Gal represented that the branch chains of rhamnogalacturonan-I in three pectins depolymerized after storage. The high Mw in WSP and SSP of jujubes were solubilized and extensively depolymerized into pectin with lower Mw after storage. AFM images showed an increase in short chains and branch structures of three pectins after storage. Overall, three pectins in DZ and JS depolymerized and solubilized during cold storage. WSP and SSP were more contributed to the softening of jujubes compared to CSP, and they played the critical role for regulating the softening of jujube fruits during cold storage. PRACTICAL APPLICATION: Softening is one of the main factors affecting market value and consumer preferences for jujubes, and it was closely related to the modification and depolymerization of pectin. Changes in characteristics of three pectins (WSP, SSP, CSP), including their contents, degree of methylesterification, neutral sugar compositions, the molecular weight distributions and nanostructures, from two jujube fruits cv Dongzao (DZ) and Jinsixiaozao (JS) during cold storage were assessed. Three pectins in DZ and JS depolymerized and solubilized during cold storage. WSP and SSP were more contributed to the softening of jujubes compared to CSP, and they played the critical role for regulating the softening of jujube fruits during cold storage. This study would elucidate the mechanism of jujube softening and help to regulate the postharvest quality during cold storage.

Medicinal plant is any plant that, in some way, can help in the treatment of a health problem, inhibiting the disease and reducing symptoms, or one that has its scientifically proven effectiveness. They have therapeutic properties due to complex chemical substances of different compositions, where these substances contain secondary metabolites such as phenolic compounds, alkaloids, terpenoids, flavonoids and saponins. Plants of the genus Ziziphus, according to the literature and popular use, are highlighted due to their versatility, usually with nutritional and medicinal potential. Ziziphus cotinifolia Reissek is endemic to Brazil, exclusively present in the caatinga. Scientific records on medicinal and / or phytochemical properties of the species Z.cotinifolia are scarce. Thus, the objective was to perform a phytochemical screening test, in order to identify the secondary metabolite groups of the plant species under study, with the part of the plant collected for the test being the stem bark. The extract was prepared in 35 ml of distilled water to obtain an aqueous solution. Seven 3 ml portions of each solution were separated and placed in test tubes, duly identified. Subsequently, a further 10 mL portion was separated, placed in a beaker and heated in a water bath until the liquid part had completely evaporated. According to the applied methodology, the results would be evaluated by means of precipitation, coloring and foaming reactions. With the performance of phytochemical screening, it was possible to see groups of chemical compounds from the secondary metabolism of anthocyanin and anthocyanidin plants, free pentecyclic triterpenoids and saponins. Phytochemical analysis provides data on the presence or absence of secondary metabolites in plants, allowing the isolation of the active ingredients essential for new herbal medicines. KEYWORDS: Juazeiro, secondary metabolites, screening. RESUMO: Planta medicinal é toda planta que, de alguma forma, pode auxiliar no tratamento de um problema de saúde, inibindo a doença e diminuindo os sintomas, ou aquela que tenha sua eficácia comprovada cientificamente. Elas têm propriedades terapêuticas devido substâncias químicas complexas de diferentes composições, onde essas substâncias contêm metabólitos secundários como compostos fenólicos, alcalóides, terpenóides, flavonoides e saponinas. Plantas do gênero Ziziphus, conforme a literatura e o uso popular são destacadas devido à sua versatilidade, geralmente, com potencial nutritivo e medicinal. Ziziphus cotinifolia Reissek é endêmica do Brasil, exclusivamente presente na caatinga. São escassos os registros científicos sobre as propriedades medicinais e/ou fitoquímica da espécie Z.cotinifolia. Assim, objetivou-se realizar teste de triagem fitoquímica, afim de identificar os grupos metabólitos secundários da espécie vegetalem estudo, sendo a parte da planta coletada para a realização do teste foi a casca do caule. Preparou-se o extrato em 35 mL de água destilada para obter uma solução aquosa. Separou-se sete porções de 3 mL de cada solução as quais foram colocadas em tubos de ensaio, devidamente identificados. Posteriormente, foi separado mais uma porção de 10 mL, colocada num béquer e aquecida em banho-maria até a evaporação total da parte líquida. De acordo com a metodologia aplicada, os resultados seriam avaliados por meio de reações de precipitação, coloração e formação de espuma.Com a realização da triagem fitoquímica foi possível constatar como grupos de compostos químicos provenientes do metabolismo secundário das plantas antocianina e antocianidina, triterpenóides pentecíclicos livres e saponinas. A análise fitoquímica fornece dados sobre a presença ou a ausência de metabolitos secundários nas plantas, permitindo fazer o isolamento dos princípios ativos essenciais para novos fitoterápicos. PALAVRAS-CHAVE: Juazeiro, metabólitos secundários, triagem.

Ziziphus spina-christi has been traditionally used as a folk medicine for a variety of therapeutic benefits. However, there is no well-documented information regarding the protective role of this plant against toxicity induced by the overdose of trace metals, including iron. This work aimed to investigate the major components, as well as the antioxidant profile of aqueous extracts from different Z. spina-christi plant parts (seed, pulp, and almond), and to assess the protective effect of seed extract against iron-induced oxidative DNA damage using Tetrahymena pyriformis as a cellular model. Cells were incubated with iron (II) chloride (FeCl2) FeCl2 (1000 μM) in the absence or presence of seed extract. Lipid peroxidation and reactive oxygen species production were measured using biochemical assays. Intracellular iron accumulation was evaluated through Perl’s Prussian blue staining and ferrozine assay. The DNA damage was evaluated by pulsed-field gel electrophoresis, PCR, and restriction enzyme digestion of metallothionein (MT) gene. HPLC–DAD analysis revealed 21 different phenolic compounds; most of them were identified in the seed extract, while the almond extract exhibited a weak phenolic composition. Accordingly, seed extract showed important in vitro antioxidant activities. Pre-treatment with seed extract significantly reduced the impact of FeCl2, by attenuating MTT reduction, preventing iron accumulation, modulated antioxidant enzyme activity, reduced lipid peroxidation and significantly inhibited DNA damage. Collectively, data showed that Ziziphus spina-christi seed might act as an iron chelator agent with antioxidant properties offering effective protection against cytotoxicity and oxidative DNA damage induced by iron (II) chloride overload.

In the study, high-speed counter-current chromatography was used for separation and purification of magnoflorine, spinosin and 6'''-feruloyspinosin from Ziziphi Spinosae Semen. With n-butanol-ethyl acetate-water (2:3:5, v/v) as the optimum solvent system, about 75 mg of magnoflorine, 110 mg of spinosin and 40 mg of 6'''-feruloyspinosin were isolated from 0.5 g of crude extract of Ziziphi Spinosae Semen, with the purity of 95.7%, 97.2% and 96.4% respectively. The chemical structures were identified by MS and NMR. In addition, the antidepressant activity of the isolated components was evaluated by PC12 cells injury model and chronic unpredictable mild stress depression mouse model. The results showed that high-speed counter-current chromatography could be used to realize the one-time rapid preparation and separation of magnoflorine, spinosin and 6'''-feruloyspinosin from Ziziphi Spinosae Semen and compatibility of these isolated components has certain antidepressant activity. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the composition of bioactive substances and the antioxidant effects of jujube fruit under gut microbiota fermentation (GMF), and the inhibitory effect on cytotoxicity caused by ethyl carbamate (EC). METHODS: Changes in the contents of flavonoids, polyphenols, total sugars, and reducing sugars of jujube fruit after GMF (0, 2, 6, 12, 24, and 48 h) were determined. The oxidation resistance of fermented jujube fruits (from 0 to 48 h fermentation) was evaluated using in vitro 2,2'-azinobis-(3-ethylbenzthiazoline-6-sulphonate) (ABTS) and ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) assays. Inhibitory effects of 48 h-fermented jujube fruit at various concentrations (0.25, 0.50, 1.00, and 2.00 mg/mL) on EC-treated toxicity and DNA damage of Caco-2 cells were estimated using 3-(4,5-dimethyl-2-thiazolyl)-2,5-diphenyl-2H-tetrazolium bromide (MTT) and nuclear staining assays, respectively. Effects of different concentrations of jujube fruit on EC-treated Caco-2 cells’ intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS), glutathione (GSH) levels, and mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) were also evaluated. RESULTS: Jujube fruit has rich bioactive components after GMF and shows strong antioxidant capacity. Fermented jujube fruit can inhibit the cytotoxicity and DNA damage of Caco-2 cells caused by EC and reduce intracellular ROS generation, as well as restoring GSH and MMP. CONCLUSIONS: Fermented jujube fruit extracts produced by GMF still contain biologically active substances which retain biological activity and antioxidation capabilities.

The use of different plant materials for the green synthesis of metal oxides is considered as an environmentally friendly method, since it does not involve the use of toxic chemicals and harsh conditions. In this study, zinc oxide (ZnO) particles were synthesized using aqueous leaf extract of Ziziphus mauritiana Lam. Synthesized ZnO particles were characterized using X-ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and field emission scanning electron microscopy. Antioxidant activities of the as-prepared ZnO were evaluated using 2-2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radical (DPPH·) assay, with varying ZnO concentration. The synthesized ZnO was found to effectively scavenge DPPH·. Antibacterial studies using agar disc diffusion method showed that the synthesized ZnO particles with concentration of 25, 50, 100, 200 and 400 mg/mL showed antibacterial activities against Staphylococcus aureus, whereas no antibacterial activities were observed against Escherichia coli. Hence, phytogenically synthesized ZnO could be a potential candidate for different biological applications.

In the area of Nano technological research, green synthesis of Nanoparticles (NPs) has pulled in a ton of interest in light of the fact that the green-synthesized Ag NPs show more prominent antimicrobial and inhibitory qualities, in perspective on which they could be utilized in various applications in the areas of medical and drug delivery. It might be the most appropriate option for the conventional techniques that are commonly conflicting and exert dangerous impacts on the earth. In this research, green synthesis of silver NPs using Ziziphus mauritiana leaf extract was carried out. The synthesized Ag NPs were characterized using UV–V is spectrophotometry, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and X-ray diffraction (XRD) techniques. The consequences of UV-Vis spectroscopy showed plasma resonance peaks around 413 nm, that exhibited the existence of Ag NPs. The result observedfromSEM demonstrated thatNPs werefound inspherical and in the 4–96 nm range. The practical gatherings forNPs synthesis using organic compounds with minimized procedure of biosynthesis and stabilization of silver NPs were studied with FTIR and were observed to be phenols, alcohols, primary amines, and alkenes. The XRD pattern demonstrated the FCC structure of AgNO3 and average particle was observed to be 12.0 nm.

Twenty-nine triterpenes were obtained from the fruits of Ziziphus jujuba Mill. through various chromatography methods, and their stereo-structures were confirmed by spectroscopic methods. Among them, 2α,3β,20-trihydroxylupane-28-oic acid (1) was identified as a new compound, and the 1H and 13C NMR data of 7, 8 and 23, as well as the 13C NMR data of 17 are reported here for the first time. Meanwhile, the nitric oxide (NO) inhibitory activities of all compounds were examined in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated RAW264.7 cells. As results, compounds 2, 7, 10-13, 15, 16, 18-21, 26-29 were found to play important roles in suppressing NO production at 5 μM. The structure-activity relationships (SARs) on NO inhibition indicated that the ursolic and oleanolic acid skeletons, p-coumaroyl group substitution, six-membered A ring, and deoxygenation (loss of C[double bond, length as m-dash]O) in the C ring showed a more positive effect on the NO inhibitory activity of triterpenes, while the reduction of the A ring C[double bond, length as m-dash]O to OH was a negative factor. Moreover, it was found that compounds 15 and 19 could suppress the phosphorylation of IκBα and NF-κB/p65 to prevent it from shifting into the nucleus and downregulate the expression of inflammatory factors, such as iNOS, IL-6 and TNF-α. Our investigations revealed that the NO inhibitory effects of the active triterpenes obtained from Z. jujuba were mediated, at least in part, through the NF-κB signaling pathway.

Background: Mercuric chloride (HgCl2) severely impairs the central nervous system when humans are exposed to it. Aims: We investigated the neuroprotective efficiency of Ziziphus spina-christi leaf extract (ZSCLE) on HgCl2-mediated cortical deficits. Methods: Twenty-eight rats were distributed equally into four groups: the control, ZSCLE-treated (300 mg/kg), HgCl2-treated (0.4 mg/kg), and ZSCLE+HgCl2-treated groups. Animals received their treatments for 28 days. Results: Supplementation with ZSCLE after HgCl2 exposure prevented the deposition of mercury in the cortical slices. It also lowered malondialdehyde levels and nitrite and nitrate formation, elevated glutathione levels, activated its associated-antioxidant enzymes, glutathione reductase, and glutathione peroxidase, and upregulated the transcription of catalase and superoxide dismutase and their activities were accordingly increased. Moreover, ZSCLE activated the expression of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 and heme oxygenase-1 when compared with the HgCl2 group. Notably, post-treatment with ZSCLE increased the activity of acetylcholinesterase and ameliorated the histopathological changes associated with HgCl2 exposure. Furthermore, ZSCLE blocked cortical inflammation, as observed by the lowered mRNA expression and protein levels of interleukin-1 beta and tumor necrosis factor-alpha, as well as decreased mRNA expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase. In addition, ZSCLE decreased neuron loss by preventing apoptosis in the cortical tissue upon HgCl2 intoxication. Conclusion: Based on the obtained findings, we suggest that ZSCLE supplementation could be applied as a neuroprotective agent to decrease neuron damage following HgCl2 toxicity.

Background: Ziziphus vulgaris (ZV) and Ferula asafoetida (FA) have phenolic compounds with potential anti-epileptic activity. Objective: This study was aimed to investigate the anti-epileptic potential of hydroalcoholic (30:70) crude extracts of ZV and FA. Methods: Different doses (5 mg/ml, 15 mg/ml, 25 mg/ml) of extracts from ZV and FA were separately administered intraperitoneally to groups (7/group) of male albino mice (20-30 g). Phenytoin (15 mg/ml, intraperitoneal) was used as positive control. After 30 min, tonic-clonic seizures were induced by intraperitoneal administration of picrotoxin (6 mg/ml) and strychnine (4 mg/ml) in separate groups. Animals were monitored for 1 h and different parameters including onset and frequency of seizures and protection (against mortality & seizures) were determined. Results: A dose dependent significant delay in onset and decrease in seizure frequency as well as mortality was observed in animals treated with plant extracts (ZV and FA). Positive control (phenytoin) also showed significant delay in seizure onset and decreased the seizure frequency. Conclusion: The plant extracts (ZV and FA) contain the phenolic compounds which may induce the GABAergic transmission that could be the most probable mechanism for their anti-epileptic activity. Molecular studies and histopathological analysis are required to elucidate the exact anti-epileptic mechanisms of ZV and FA extracts.

Backgroud/objectives Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common cause of dementia in the elderly. Due to the increased incidence of dementia, there is a corresponding increase concerning the importance of AD. In this study, we investigated the protective effects conferred by Zizyphus jujuba (Zj) and Zizyphus jujuba fermented by yeast (Zj-Y), on cognitive impairment in an AD mouse model. Materials/methods AD was induced by injecting amyloid beta25-35 (Aβ25-35) in ICR mice, and subsequently 200 mg/kg Zj or Zj-Y was administered daily for 14 days. The cognitive ability of AD mice was observed through behavioral experiments in T-maze, novel object recognition, and Morris water maze tests. We subsequently measured the levels of malondialdehyde (MDA), nitric oxide (NO), aspartate aminotransferase, and alanine aminotransferase in either tissues or serum. Results In behavioral tests, deterioration was revealed in the short- and long-term learning and memory functions in the Aβ25-35-injected control group compared to the normal group, indicating that Aβ25-35 injection impairs cognitive functions. However, administration of Zj and Zj-Y improved cognitive function in mice, as compared to the Aβ25-35-injected control mice. In addition, the Aβ25-35 induced elevations of MDA and NO in the brain, kidney, and liver were suppressed after exposure to Zj and Zj-Y. Especially, Zj-Y showed stronger scavenging effect against MDA and NO, as compared to Zj. Conclusions Results of the present study indicate that Zj-Y exerts a protective effect on cognitive impairment and memory dysfunction, which is exerted by attenuating the oxidative stress induced by Aβ25-35.

Background Ziziphus jujuba Miller cv. Dongzao is extremely susceptible to reddening, browning, nutritional loss, and perishability after harvest. In this study, we evaluated the mechanisms of calcium chloride and chitosan/nano-silica composite film treatments on the quality, especially in reddening, by physiological and metabolomic assays. Results The treatment delayed the decline of phenylalanine ammonia-lyase (PAL), chalcone synthase (CHS), and chalcone isomerase (CHI) activities. Meanwhile, the treated groups retarded the increases in anthocyanin and quercetin contents by inhibiting the gene expressions of flavonol synthase (ZjFLS), dihydroflavonol 4-reductase (ZjDFR), and anthocyanidin synthase (ZjANS), while promoting leucoanthocyanidin reductase (ZjLAR) expression, which leads to retardation of fruit reddening. Anthocyanins were found to be responsible for post-harvest winter jujube reddening through principal component analysis. Results from the technique for order preference by similarity to an ideal solution indicated that the treated group delayed the decline of the quality of 'Dongzao' and extended its shelf life. Conclusion The treatment induced the heightening of flavonoids metabolism. They enhanced the nutritional value and the ability to resist stress by delaying the decline of PAL, CHS, and CHI activities. Meanwhile, the treated groups retarded the increase in anthocyanin and quercetin contents by inhibiting the gene expressions of ZjFLS, ZjDFR, and ZjANS and promoting ZjLAR expression, which leads to retardation of fruit reddening. Anthocyanins are responsible for post-harvest winter jujube reddening. Coating treatment effectively delayed the decline of winter jujube quality. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry.

Sugar profile and hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) of Saudi honey were examined through high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) fitted with refractive index and diode array detectors. The work was designed to assess the quality of various types of blossom honey i.e. Sider (Ziziphus spina-christi), Dhuhyana (Acacia asak), Sumra (Acacia tortilis), Qatada (Acacia hamulosa), Dhurum (Lavandula dentata), Multiflora with majra (Hypoestes forskaolii), multiflora with herbs, Keena (Eucalyptus spp.) produced in the southwestern areas of the kingdom. Hierarchical cluster analysis (HCA), principal cluster analysis (PCA), and similarity and difference indices (SDI) were also applied to examine the possible grouping based on the studied quality parameters. Four main sugars (two monosaccharides i.e. fructose and glucose, two disaccharides i.e. sucrose and maltose) and HMF were investigated in two multifloral and six unifloral honey types. The average values of fructose and glucose were in the range 33.10%–44.77% and 26.68%–37.91%, respectively. The maltose was present in all types of honey and its mean values were in the range of 0.37%–2.97%, while sucrose was absent in six types of honey, 0.25% in one unifloral honey, and 3.25% in one multi-floral honey. HMF was not detected in seven types of honey but was below the limit of quantification (0.13 mg/kg) in one type of honey. PCA displayed the accumulative variance of 79.96% for the initial two PCs suggesting that honey samples were not well distinguished by their sugar profile. Based on the sucrose and HMF contents, it was concluded that all types of blossom honey from the Asir province were of the best quality in the kingdom and met the international quality parameters.

Sidr honey from Ziziphus species is gaining importance after Manuka honey due to its health benefits, therefore chemical fingerprinting of the Sidr honey from different regions of Pakistan was performed in comparison with other unifloral (Elettaria cardamomum, Citrus reticulata and Grewia asiatica) and polyfloral honey. Front face, synchronous fluorescence spectroscopy (SFS) was recorded at an excitation wavelength range from 250–450 nm with offset of 60 nm. All honey samples have fluorescent emission peaks at 342 and 349 nm attributed to amino acid (Tryptophan). The emission spectra of raw Sidr honey showed clear discrimination from uni/polyfloral and commercial samples owing to its phenolic profile with peaks at 396 and major distinctive peak at 451 nm that corresponds to caffeic acid, chlorogenic acid and ferulic acid. Whereas a year old Sidr honey showed decreased and shifted fluorescence emission from amino acid and phenolic compounds respectively. Variation in fluorescent intensity of phenolic compounds in Sidr honey from different regions of Pakistan may be attributed to diverse species of Ziziphus in these geographical areas. A broad band from 395 to 459 nm in commercial honey samples are due to fluorescence of Maillard reaction products that could be generated during thermal processing of honey. Natural variability exists among honey samples owing to different floral origin as authenticated by Principal Component and Heirarchial Cluster Analysis techniques applied in this study. The unique fluorescence emission spectra of raw Sidr honey samples proposed front face SFS as a simple technique for the quick identification of its monofloral origin. Therefore, fluorescent inherent markers are helpful in identifying botanical and geographical origin and may also be standardized to authenticate the purity of honey.

Background: The effect of hydroalcoholic extract of Ziziphus jujuba (ZJ) on hypertension has been reported previously. Objective: This experiment investigates the effect of two ethyl acetate (EA, a polar and semi-polar compound) and aqueous fractions (AQ, a polar compound) of ZJ extract on cardiovascular parameters in acute hypertension induced by angiotensin II (AngII). Methods: Rats were randomly divided into following groups (n=7 in each group): 1) Control; 2) AngII (50 ng/kg); 3) Losartan (LOS, 30 mg/kg) + AngII; 4, 5) ethyl acetate fraction (EA150 and EA300 mg/kg) + AngII and 6, 7) aqueous fraction (AQ150 and AQ300 mg/kg) + AngII. Rats were treated with both fractions and LOS orally for four weeks and in the experiment day (28th) AngII intravenously injected and cardiovascular parameters (Systolic Blood Pressure (SBP), Mean Arterial Pressure (MAP) and Heart Rate (HR)) directly were recorded by a power lab system. Results: AngII could significantly increase SBP and MAP (P Conclusion: This study indicates that both fractions of the ZJ extract have a beneficial effect on hypertension. Because effect of EA was greater than AQ, we suggested that antihypertensive effects of ZJ mediated polar and nonpolar compounds.

Bidara Arab (Ziziphus spina-christi L.) is one of the tropical trees that is very useful and is often called a versatile plant. Several studies have proven that this plant is used as an antimicrobial, antidiabetic, antipireutic, anticancer and also has the potential to inhibit the enzyme tyrosinase. Kojic acid is one of the agents used to inhibit the tyrosinase enzyme so that it prevents hyperpigmentation. This study aims to determine the inhibitory activity of the tyrosinase enzyme from the ethanol extract of Bidara Arab leaves (Ziziphus spina-christi L.) in vitro. The method used in extraction is the maceration method using 70% ethanol until thick extract is obtained. Tests were carried out using 2 substrate namely L-Tyrosine and L-DOPA, ethanol extract of Bidara Arab leaves with concentrations of 10000, 8000, 4000, 2000 and 1000 μg / mL and kojat acid as positive controls and then measured absorption using microplate reader at wavelength 510 nm. The results showed that the Bidara Arab ethanol extract had tyrosinase inhibitor activity with IC50 values of 5364,186 in L-Tyrosine and 5568,362 in L-DOPA. Keywords: Bidara Arab; Kojic Acid; Tyrosinase Enzyme; Hyperpigmentation; Microplate reader

Jujube (Zizyphus jujuba Mill.) have been widely used as a health food and medicinal herb in oriental medicine. In the present study, a novel galacturonic acid-rich polysaccharide (PZMP3-2) was isolated from Zizyphus Jujuba cv. Muzao through hot water extraction, ethanol precipitation, and purification with DEAE-Sepharose Fast Flow and Sephacryl S-300 column chromatography. The chemical structures of PZMP3-2 were elucidated by methylation analysis, along with HPGPC, FT-IR spectroscopy, GC-MS, 1D NMR spectroscopy, and 2D NMR spectroscopy. Its morphological properties were further characterized by SEM, AFM, and XRD. Monosaccharide compositional analysis of PZMP3-2 revealed the presence of rhamnose, arabinose, galactose, and galacturonic acid at a molar ratio of 1.74:2.00: 1.00:18.69, and the HPGPC data demonstrated an average molecular weight of 58.21 kDa. Structural and linkage analysis by GC-MS and NMR spectroscopy suggested that PZMP3-2 was a homogalacturonan (HG)-like pectic polysaccharide branched at C-2 with some Araf and Rhap residues. Such unique structure of PZMP3-2 may indicate distinct bioactivities and further application in food and even clinic.

Increasing attention has been paid to the nutritional values and pharmacological effects of Ziziphus jujuba. Therefore, in this study, four phenolic and flavonoid fractions of 16 jujube cultivars from different geographic regions of China were separated and quantified. In addition, the antioxidant activity was evaluated using the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH·) scavenging method and the ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) assay. The total phenols and flavonoids contents ranged from 253.4 to 494.9 mg GAE/100 g and 125.3 to 425.4 mg rutin/100 g, respectively. Subsquently, a total of 10 phenolic acids and two flavonoids were identified, and most quantified phenolic acids with antioxidant activity were mainly present in the glycosided and insoluble-bound phenolic fractions. The results of this study indicate that some jujube cultivars, especially Zanghuang Z. jujuba, Leling Z. jujuba, and Jiaxian Z. jujuba could be selected to promote a healthy diet due to their more plentiful nutritional and phytochemical beneficial effects.

The objective of this work was to develop a new edible coating based on the ethanolic residue of the Ziziphus joazeiro fruit pulp (POLIJUA) and evaluate its application in the Coalho cheese, a fresh cheese type. Films were developed using different concentrations of glycerol and the best formulation was applied on cheeses to evaluate their physical-chemical and microbiological characteristics during 21 days of storage. The POLIJUA coating significantly decreased (p

The escalation in the global prevalence of obesity has focused attention on finding novel approaches for its management. Ziziphus jujuba Mill. (ZJL) leaf extract is reported as a traditional remedy for diverse pathological conditions, including obesity. The present study investigated whether ZJL affects adipogenic differentiation in human adipocytes. Additionally, following metabolite profiling of the extract, apigenin (APG), betulinic acid (BA) and maslinic acid (MA) were selected for biological activity evaluation. The possible interactions between APG, BA, MA and target proteins with a central role in adipogenesis were assessed through molecular docking. The potential mechanisms of ZJL, APG, BA and MA were identified using transcriptional analysis through realtime quantitative PCR and protein abundance evaluation by Western blotting. The obtained results revealed a concentration-dependent reduction of accumulated lipids after ZJL, BA and MA application. The key adipogenic transcription factors peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARγ) and CCAAT-enhancer-binding protein alpha (C/EBPα) were strongly decreased at a protein level by all treatments. Moreover, the phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/protein kinase B (AKT) signaling pathway was found to be involved in the antiadipogenic effect of ZJL, APG and BA. Collectively, our findings indicate that ZJL and its pure compounds hampered adipocyte differentiation through PI3K/AKT inhibition. Among the selected compounds, BA exhibits the most promising anti-adipogenic activity. Furthermore, being a complex mixture of phytochemicals, the ZJL extract could be utilized as source of yet unknown bioactive leads with potential implementation in obesity management.

The effects of heat shock (HT), 1-methylcyclopropene (1-MCP), or their combination (HT + 1-MCP) on the quality of fresh jujube fruits during cold storage were studied. Among them, HT showed the best preservation effect on jujube fruits, which was more effective than others in inhibiting the increase of red index, decay incidence, and weight loss and delaying the decrease of firmness, soluble solids content (SSC), titratable acidity (TA), and ascorbic acid (AsA) content. Besides, it could delay the degradation rate of the cell wall to maintain the integrity of cell membrane, and keep the high activity of active oxygen scavenging enzymes. During cold storage, malondialdehyde (MDA) content and relative electrolyte leakage (REL) of the HT group were significantly lower than those of the control group, 1-MCP, and HT + 1-MCP group (p < .05), while superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and peroxidase (POD) activities were significantly higher than those of other groups (p < .05). It was concluded that the postharvest HT treatment could effectively delay the senescence and decay of jujube fruits. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: Jujube fruits have high nutritional value used for food and medicine. However, they are not tolerant to storage after harvest, resulting in high economic losses. Therefore, it is of great significance to find a suitable method to maintain the quality of jujube fruits. Our results revealed the effect of HT, 1-MCP, and their combination on the quality maintenance of jujube fruits, and found that HT could effectively maintain the quality of them, which could be used as an effective method for keeping jujube fruits fresh.

The study was aimed to evaluate the therapeutic effects of Zizyphus oxyphyla leaves methanolic (ZOX-LME), on serum liver, kidney and hematology along with other serum parameters in Carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) intoxicated rabbits. Experimental animals were divided into five groups, six rabbits in each. These were: group NC (normal control), group, TC (toxic control) and group ST i.e. silymarine administered group at dose rate (50) mg/kg body weight (BW). Group ET1 and group ET2 treated with (ZOX-LME) at dose 200 mg/kg BW and 400 mg/kg BW. CCl4 administration caused significant (P> 0.05) impairment in serum liver enzymes, blood factors and other serum indices. Treatment with (ZOX-LME) significantly (P 0,05) nas enzimas hepáticas séricas, fatores sanguíneos e outros índices séricos. O tratamento com (ZOX-LME) reduziu significativamente (P < 0,05) e normalizou os níveis de alanina transaminase (ALT), aspartato transaminase (AST) e fosfatase alcalina (ALP) e os índices hematológicos. Também foi observada redução significativa (P < 0,05) nas concentrações de creatinina, ureia, ácido úrico, nitrogênio ureico no sangue (BUN), albumina e glicose. Os níveis alterados de perfil lipídico e eletrólitos séricos (Ca, Mg, Cl, Na, K e P) foram significativamente (P < 0,05) mudando em direção aos níveis normais com a alimentação (ZOX-LME). Além disso, a ingestão de (ZOX-LME) causou melhora significativa nos níveis de GSH, GST e CAT, enquanto reduzia os níveis de TBARS, exibindo capacidade antioxidante. Também (ZOX-LME) mostrou inibição aumentada contra a eliminação percentual do radical livre 2, 2-difenila-1-picrilehidrazila (DPPH). Efeitos de normalização significativos (P < 0,05) foram observados com altas doses de 400 mg / kg de peso corporal de (ZOX-LME) e foram equivalentes aos grupos administrados com silimarina. O estudo histológico do fígado confirmou a atividade hepatoprotetora e curativa renal de (ZOX-LME).

An experiment was carried out to study the “Effect of foliar feeding on chemical attributes of ber (Ziziphus mauritiana L.) under sodic soil” in the year 2019-20. The experiment was conducted in Randomized Block Design with three replications. The foliar feeding of urea (2.0%), zinc sulphate (0.50%), borax 0.50% and K2SO4 0.50% a at peak flowering, peanut size of fruit and second growth phase significantly increased the fruit quality characteristics T.S.S. (20.860 Brix), Total sugars (9.58%), Reducing sugar (6.68%), Non- reducing sugar (2.90%), Acidity (0.25%), Ascorbic acid (95.66 mg/ 100 g pulp), Fruit yield per plant (33.63 kg/plant) and Fruit yield (9.37 t/ha.) over control. The maximum effect on all parameters, treatment T10 was observed best with the feeding of Urea 2.0% + ZnSO4 0.50% + Borax 0.50% + K2SO4 0.50%. However, the combination of Urea 2.0% + ZnSO4 0.50% + Borax 0.50% + K2SO4 0.50% was found most effective in fruit quality of ber (Ziziphus mauritiana L.) under sodic soil.

Indian jujube or ber (Ziziphus mauritiana Lamk.) is one of the most common fruit, indigenous to an area joined from India to China. Powdery mildew of ber incited by Oidium erysiphoides f. sp. ziziphi, Yan and Wang is the most important disease that causes maximum reduction in yield and quality of ber fruits. Exclusive reliance on fungicides for the control of disease of various crops resulted in residue and environmental hazards. Therefore, in recent years, efforts are being diverted to employ higher plants, natural products and their derivatives as a tool for integrated disease management because they do not cause bio-accumulation, bio-magnification and environmental pollution. In present investigation, six natural products (buffalo milk, cow milk, garlic extract, neem oil, mustard oil, butter milk/chhach) were evaluated for their efficacy against powdery mildew of ber. The jujube or ber is an ancient fruit of India and China. It was one of the prominent fruits on which the sages in ancient India lived during the Vedic age and lived even today. Ber is a hardy crop which grown in arid conditions of Rajasthan, characterized by sandy soils, scanty rainfall (400-600mm), thermal oscillations (5-35 0C) and low relative humidity. Therefore, the area of cultivation is increasing in this zone (arid and semi arid) and is expected that in near future ber will be a leading fruit crop of arid zone. The cultivation of ber requires the least input and care. In natural products maximum intensity over control was observed with garlic extract followed by neem oil, mustard oil, cow milk, buffalo milk and least effective was butter milk. Among the five systemic and non systemic fungicides (difenoconazole, dinocap, hexaconazole, tridemorph and wettable sulphur) tested against powdery mildew of ber, the maximum reduction in disease intensity over control was observed in dinocap (0.1%) with lowest per cent disease intensity (9.60) followed by hexaconazole, wettable sulphur, tridemorph and least effective was difenoconazole.

Previous studies showed that Ziziphus mauritiana is ethnomedicinally beneficial against various diseases, however the cytotoxic and genotoxic effects of this plant have not been well investigated. Therefore this study was undertaken to investigate cytotoxic and genotoxic effects of four different solvents extracts of Ziziphus mauritiana (Lam) leaf at different concentrations (20, 40, 60, 80, and 100 mg/L) using Allium cepa model. The cytotoxicity and genotoxicity parameters evaluated were mitotic index, root tip growth length and chromosomal aberration respectively. The result revealed a decrease in mitotic index percentage (%MI) and a dose dependent decrease in root tip length with increase in extracts concentration for all the extracts studied - with the ethanol extract showing the most significant effect in mitotic index. Furthermore, the effective concentrations (EC50) obtained were 81.30, 52.01, 90.68 and 112.30 mg/l for aqueous, ethanol, ethyl acetate and hexane extract respectively. Finally chromosomal aberrations such as vagrant chromosome, c-mitosis, bridged anaphase, sticky telophase were also observed in all four extracts and the percentage chromosomal aberration were observed to decrease with increased concentrations of extracts. Therefore based on the result obtained in this study it may be concluded that the plant (Ziziphus mauritiana (Lam)) extracts are cytotoxic and genotoxic in nature and the observed decrease in percentage chromosomal aberration may be as a result of antimutagenic bioactive principles present in the plant extracts. Hence care must be taken in its consumption and use in folk medicine.

The phenolic contents of 6 Libyan honey varieties of different floral sources were determined. Honey samples included the 5 mono-floral kinds of honey, Ziziphus louts, Citrus medica, Thymus capitatus,Amygdaluscommunis and Commiphormyrrha, while the multi-floral honey was Rabia (spring) honey. The analysis of phenolic compounds was performed using High Pressure Liquid Chromatography (HPLC). Twenty three phenolic components in the differentkinds of honey were determined. The highest number of phenolic components were found in the darker honey, Thymus and Commiphor followed by Citrus, Rabia and Ziziphus, respectively. The least number of phenolic components were detected in Amygdalus (only 4). p-Hydroxybenzoic acid was found in all studied honey varieties, while rutin was not detected in any of the honey samples analyzed. Gallic acid and chrysin were found only in Thymus honey, Caffeic acid, salicylic acid and pinostrobin were only in Commiphor honey, while catechin, daidzein and pyrogallic were detected only in Citrus honey. The antimicrobial effect on Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus subtilis, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Enterococcus faecalis, Pseudomonas aeuroginosa, Escherichia coli, Bacteriods spp., Sarcina spp. and Candida albicanswas studied. All honey samples inhibited the growth of Escherichia coli with different degrees, where P

In this paper, the adsorption potential of activated carbon prepared by Ziziphus spina-christi lotus leaf for the removal of sulfate from aqueous solution was investigated. To this end, the effect of different parameters such as pH, contact time, temperature, adsorbent concentration, and initial sulfate ion concentration was investigated. The results indicated that the highest adsorption efficiency (84.5%) was obtained at pH 6, adsorbent concentration of 5 g/L, sulfate ion concentration of 20 ppm, 65 min and temperature of 45 °C. Also, the adsorption equilibrium study showed that the adsorption process follows the Langmuir isotherm model with the maximum adsorption capacity of 9.3 mg/g. In addition, the thermodynamic study showed that the adsorption process on the activated carbon surface was spontaneous. Moreover, the adsorption process was exothermic accompanied by a decrease in irregularity. Furthermore, the adsorption kinetic study indicated that the adsorption process follows the pseudo-second-order kinetic model.

BACKGROUND Slight acidic electrolyzed water (SAEW) has been widely used in cleaning systems of fruit and vegetables. It strongly reduces microbial contamination. However, no information is available on whether SAEW offers the potential for fresh jujube cleaning. The purposes of this study were, first, to compare the effectiveness of SAEW with commercial sanitizers (i.e. sodium hypochlorite (NaClO) or calcium hypochlorite (Ca(ClO)2 )) on 'Jiancui' jujube; second, to determine the response of fruit decay, tissue calcium (Ca) content, and quality attributes to dip application of calcium nitrate (Ca(NO3 )2 ) by concentration; and third, to investigate the effects of SAEW combined with Ca(NO3 )2 or calcium acetate (Ca(OAc)2 )) on fruit Ca uptake, quality attributes, and bioactive compounds. RESULTS Fruits washed with NaClO, Ca(ClO)2 , or an SAEW solution showed no difference in reduction of decay incidence. In contrast to NaClO treatment, SAEW or Ca(ClO)2 significantly retarded losses in fruit firmness (FF), green color (hue angle), and skin lightness (L*), and maintained intact pericarp tissue structure during storage at 1 °C. Application of Ca(NO3 )2 at 5-10 g L-1 effectively promoted Ca2+ uptake and minimized declines in FF and L* value but had no effect on decay development. Adding 10 g L-1 Ca(NO3 )2 or Ca(OAc)2 to SAEW provided an additional benefit in increasing decay resistance, increasing Ca2+ into fruit and increasing levels of bioactive compounds in jujube fruit. CONCLUSION SAEW in combination with Ca(NO3 )2 or Ca(OAc)2 has commercial potential for fresh jujube disinfection and improving storage quality as a result of the cleaning processes. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry.

The present study investigates the effect of dietary Ziziphus jujube fruit extract [ZJFE] on skin mucus non-specific immune parameters as well as mRNA levels of immune related gene in the skin of common carp fingerlings. An eight-week feeding trial was performed using different levels of dietary ZJFE (0, 0.25, 0.5 and 1%). At the end of the trial skin mucus immune parameters (total Ig, lysozyme and protease activity), cytokines genes (il1b, il8, il10 and tnf-alpha) expression in skin and growth performance were studied. The result showed highest and lowest skin mucus total Ig were observed in fish fed diet containing 0.5% ZJFE and control group, respectively (P 0.05). There were no significant difference among treatments regarding skin mucus lysozyme activity (P0.05). It should be noted that, feeding on 0.5 and 1% ZJFE significantly increased skin mucus protease activity (P0.05). Likewise, gene expression studies in skin showed significant increase of il1b expression in fish fed 0.5% ZJFE compared other treatments (P0.05). Also, il8 gene was noticeably up-regulated in 0.5 and 1% treatments compared to the control group (P0.05). While there were no significant difference between 0.25% JFE treatment and control in case of relative il10 gene expression (P0.05), feeding on diets containing 0.5% or 1% ZJFE significantly down-regulated il10 gene (P0.05). Our study indicated that relative expression of tnf-alpha gene significantly increased in treated groups (P0.05). Also, feeding on ZJFE supplemented diet improved growth performance parameters. Overall, this experiment demonstrated the potentially useful effects of ZJFE on skin mucosal immunity and performance of common carp fingerlings.

All components of Ziziphus jujube (ZJ) were used in medicine and food in ancient Iran and China. Cisplatin is one of the most important drugs in the treatment of solid tumors. Taking this drug can result in nephrotoxicity through several mechanisms. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of ZJ on the nephrotoxicity induced by cisplatin in rats. Thirty-five experimental rats were randomly divided into the following five groups (n = 7 per group) for an 8-day study: 1- Group C1 was the control group and received distilled water (1 ml/day); 2- Group C2 received a single dose of intraperitoneal cisplatin (5 mg/kg); 3- Group ZJ received 1500 mg/kg/day Ziziphus Jujube extract orally; 4- Group ZJ1 was given 1500 mg/kg/day of Ziziphus Jujube extract orally with taking a single dose of cisplatin (5 mg/kg) on the first day only; 5- Group ZJ2 received 3000 mg/kg/day of Ziziphus jujube extract orally with taking a single dose of cisplatin (5 mg/kg) on the first day only. Eventually, histopathological parameters, blood urea nitrogen (BUN), malondialdehyde (MDA), alanine transaminase (ALT), and aspartate transaminase (AST) were assessed. The findings showed that cisplatin administration resulted in severe degeneration in all parts of the nephron tubules. Also, the present study showed that MDA levels were significantly lower in both ZJ1 and ZJ2 groups compared with those in group C2 (p

An acidic polysaccharide (SAZMP3) was isolated from jujube fruit residues by alkaline extraction and purified with DEAE-Sepharose Fast Flow and Sephacryl S-300 column chromatography. The structural characterizations of SAZMP3 were determined by high-performance gelpermeation chromatography, gas chromatography, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, methylation analysis, NMR spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and atomic force microscopy. The results determined SAZMP3 was an acidic polysaccharide mainly contained rhamnose, galactose, and galacturonic acid with a molecular weight of 9.37 kDa and its backbone might mainly be composed of 1,4-α-D-GalA p with side chains of 1,3-β-D-Gal p , 1,3,5-linked Ara f , 1,2,4-α-L-Rha p and terminals of 1-linked Ara f , 1-linked Rha p , 1-linked Gal p by methylation and NMR analysis. Besides, SAZMP3 has shown potential antioxidant activity in scavenging free radicals suggesting that it is an antioxidant agent, which might contribute to the functional food qualities of jujube fruit.

Ziziphus plants are well recognized for their nutritive and medicinal value worldwide, albeit their chemical profile has yet to be fully reported. The secondary metabolites profile of three traditionally used Ziziphus leaf accessions was investigated via ultra-high performance liquid chromatography coupled to photodiode array and electrospray ionization mass detectors (UHPLC/PDA/ESI-MS). A total of 102 metabolites were characterized revealing the first holistic approach onto Ziziphus leaf metabolome and to include the first report of several novel flavonoids and cyclopeptide alkaloids. Fragmentation pattern for cyclopeptide alkaloids was proposed via ESI-MS. Principal component analysis (PCA) revealed close metabolite resemblance among Z. spina-christi and Z. mauritiana leaf specimens found enriched in saponins and distinct from that of Z. jujuba in which quercetin-3-O-(2-pentosyl)-rhamnoside was most abundant. Further, in-vitro antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antidiabetic assays revealed for Z. spina-christi and Z. mauritiana strong effects compared to Z. jujuba and in correlation with their metabolites repertoire.

Ziziphi Spinosae Semen (ZSS) has been used for treatment of insomnia in China for centuries. To reveal the influence of insomnia on the levels of the neurotransmitters including serotonin (5-HT), glutamic acid (Glu), γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA), noradrenaline (NE) and dopamine (DA), and to study the role of ZSS aqueous extract in the treatment of insomnia, an UPLC-ESI- MS/MS method was developed and validated for simultaneous determination of five neurotransmitters in the rat brain. The brain samples were pretreated by one-step direct protein precipitation with acetonitrile. The analytes were detected in positive mode with multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) and the procedure was completed in less than 10 min. The method showed a good linearity (R2 > 0.9967) with the other validation parameters were within acceptance range. The results indicated that the concentration of 5-HT, GABA and DA is significantly lower (P < 0.01) in para-chlorophenylalanine (PCPA)-induced insomnia rat model group, while Glu and NE significantly higher than those in control group (P < 0.01). Treatment with ZSS aqueous extract (4 or 8 g·kg-1·d-1 for seven days) could ameliorate the symptoms of insomnia by significantly changing the levels of the neurotransmitter parameters mentioned above. The data obtained in this study demonstrate that ZSS aqueous extract could ameliorate the symptoms of insomnia by modulating the levels of monoamines and amino acid neurotransmitters in the brain.

Seven undescribed dammarane-type triterpenoids, together with ten known compounds, were isolated from the stems of Ziziphus glaziovii Warm (= Sarcomphalus glaziovii (Warm.) Hauenschild). The structures were fully assigned by means of uni- and bidimensional NMR and HR-ESI-MS experiments. Extract, fractions and also isolated compounds were evaluated for their antibacterial (against Bacillus subtilis and Aliivibrio fischeri), cytotoxic (against PC-3 and HT-29 human cancer cell lines), anthelmintic (against Caenorhabditis elegans) and antifungal (against Septoria triciti, Botrytis cinerea and Phytopthoria infestans) activities. The methanolic crude extract exhibited substantial antibacterial and cytotoxic activity. The known triterpenes epigouanic acid and alphitolic acid were the most active compounds against B. subtilis, with IC50 of 12 and 22 μM, respectively. The isolated compounds presented up to a concentration of 10 μM none or only weak effects in the cytotoxicity assays. No anthelminthic and antifungal activities were observed.

The solvent extracts of Ziziphus mauritiana leaves were evaluated for phenolic and flavonoid content and antioxidant and antibacterial activities. Ethanol extract had the highest antioxidant capaci...

Ethnopharmacological relevance Several natural products derived from plant sources are developed to remarkable medicines based on their traditional uses. Ziziphus, a worldwide known plant, is proven for potential cytotoxic activity. However, the plant growing at the unique hot environmental climate of UAE was never investigated. Different phytochemicals may be produced from the same plant genotype at different climates leading to variable pharmacological activities. Aim of the study The study was conducted in order to investigate phytochemicals in the UAE native Z. spina-christi plant and its anticancer activity. Materials and methods Z. spina-christi plant were collected, dried and dissected into leaves, stems and thorns. The plant organs were subjected to comparative fractionation-based anticancer assay followed by spectroscopic analysis of a uniquely isolated compound. Results The results indicate that a novel betulin derivative (13-dehydrobetulin) isolated from plant stem exhibited substantial anticancer activity specifically against liver cancer and with wide therapeutic range. Conclusions Growth of cytotoxic traditionally-known plant remedy at harsh environmental habitat advances its anticancer activity due to production of novel phytochemical with optimum activity and minimal toxicity. Furthermore, such approach may be a future to develop novel lead compounds with optimum activity.

Background: Migraine is an exceedingly common disorder that causes substantial pain, disability and societal burden. Unfortunately, conventional treatments are insufficient, inadequate, or associated with significant risks, such as overuse, abuse or addiction. The Unani system of Medicine has been treating migraine since centuries. Leech therapy (Irsale Alaq) has been employed successfully in severe persistent headache, mania and insomnia since decades. Aim: The purpose of our study was to evaluate the impact of post auricular leech therapy in migraine and to collect data to warrant further clinical trials. Methods: We conducted a case series on 7 patients who had failed conventional oral treatments for the migraine. After informed consent, post auricular leech therapy was done. Patients were asked to keep detailed headache calendars, documenting the number of headache days, migraine days, the intensity of headaches/ migraines and analgesic usage. We compared these parameters before and after 2 months of therapy. Results: We observed a reduction in the number of headache & migraine days and amount of painkillers used without any adverse effects. (P≤ 0.01) Improvement in quality of life was also observed. Discussion: We reviewed the literature related to the medicinal leeches (Hirudo medicinalis), used for the treatment in these cases. Leech saliva contains certain potent anesthetic, anti-inflammatory and vasodilator substances, suggesting plausible mechanisms of action in these cases. Conclusion: The preliminary findings indicate the safe and potential therapeutic role of leech therapy. So further trials should be carried out to explore the therapeutic potential of this therapy in chronic migraine. Keywords: Chronic Migraine, leech therapy, hirudo medicinalis, headache, Unani Medicine, complementary Medicine.

A novel acidic polysaccharide fraction (PZMP2-2) was isolated from Ziziphus Jujuba cv. Muzao fruit via hot water extraction and purified by DEAE-Sepharose FF and Sephacryl S-300 column chromatography. PZMP2-2 consisted of rhamnose, arabinose, xylose, galactose, and galacturonic acid in a ratio of 1.18: 5.23: 0.22: 2.68: 2.20, with a molecular weight of 62.73 kDa. Structural features of PZMP2-2 were investigated using FT-IR, SEM, AFM, GC–MS analysis and NMR spectroscopy. Methylation and GC–MS analysis revealed that the main glycosidic bonds in PZMP2-2 comprised 1-linked Galp, 1,3-linked Araf, 1,2,4-linked Rhap, 1,3-linked Galp, 1,4-linked GalpA and 1,3,5-linked Araf. NMR analysis indicate that PZMP 2–2 has a linear backbone of (1 → 4)-linked GlcpA and (1 → 2,4)-linked Rhap residues, with branches at the O-4 position, consisting of Araf and Galp residues.

The aqueous extract synthesized using the biomass, Ziziphus spina-christi, was applied to protect the surface of aluminium under acidic environment. The influence of extract concentration (0–0.14 mg/ml), contact time (2–8 h) and temperature (303.15–313.15 K) on the inhibition efficiency was studied. Langmuir isotherm fitted well to the experimental observations (R2 > 0.960) confirmed the monolayer attachment of inhibitors. The values of activation energy observed in this study suggests that the inhibition process to be surface interaction-based process. Thermodynamic parameters confirmed the process as feasible and exothermic. Potentiodynamic polarization and Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy studies are conducted to study the mechanism of corrosion. The electrochemical corrosion kinetics was studied using current density–potential curves and the Tafel constants ( β a and β c ) were calculated as 154.42 and 128.35 mV, at 0.14 mg/mL of inhibitor concentration. The biomass-based corrosion inhibitor was characterized using scanning electron microscope and attenuated total reflection techniques.

A rapid and efficient QuEChERS-based preparation method was established for the simultaneous determination of 43 mycotoxins in chestnut and jujube (Chinese date). The contaminants were extracted using acetonitrile and subjected to dispersive solid-phase extraction for further clean-up. Central composite design was conducted to overcome the limitations of conventional optimization methods, and assess the interaction effects between variables and reach the true optimal conditions. Quantitative analysis was performed on UHPLC-MS/MS with the aid of stable isotope internal standards and matrix-matched curves, whereas qualitative identification was carried out by using high-resolution MS based on exact masses and fragmentation patterns. In addition to the mycotoxins that are routinely monitored (like aflatoxins, ochratoxin A, etc.), this study also revealed a non-negligible contamination of zearalenone (56/170), beauvericin (52/170), enniatin B (43/170), and alternariol monomethyl ether (42/170) in chestnut and jujube, especially the chestnut flour.