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The current research study on the characterization of natural fibers is motivated by the need for sustainable and eco-friendly alternatives in various industries. India is the largest grower of palmyra palm trees for the cultivation of palm fruit. After harvesting the palm fruit in the tree, the fruit leaf stalk is thrown out as agricultural waste. The research problem focused on understanding the effects of alkali treatment on the cellulose content and properties of PPLSF and methodology involved subjecting the cellulose fiber to alkali treatment using a specific concentration of sodium hydroxide. This research is aimed at characterizing palmyra palm primary flower leaf stalk fiber (PPFLSF) that was extracted from palmyra palm tree using the manual retting process method. The extracted fibers were treated with alkali treatment with 5% NaOH, and their characteristics were studied. Alkali-treated and untreated PPFLSF behavior of physical–chemical analysis, mechanical properties, X-ray diffraction analysis (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), thermo-gravimetric analysis (TGA), atomic force microscopy (AFM), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) were investigated to find the scope of the natural fiber reinforced composite material. The mechanical properties of the tensile strength (1312–1423 MPa) and young modulus (1.31–1.47 GPa) were increased by 15% and 14%, respectively, after treatment of alkali. The results of the thermal stability provide the degradation temperature of 250 °C for the PPFLSF-5%. From the chemical analysis, alkali-treated PPFLSF had increased the cellulose content by 7%, compared to the raw PPFLSF. XRD analysis indicated a crystallinity index of 57.8% and a crystal size of 35.96 nm. Using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy to confirm the organic groups of the fiber, which revealed the cellulose, hemicellulose, lignin, waxes, etc. Morphological analysis was compared between untreated PPFLSF and treated PPFLSF by SEM analysis which showed surface improvements after treatment and occurrence of surface pollutants including wax, impurities, and other foreign materials. Followed by, AFM was also performed to find the surface roughness characteristics of the PPFLSF confirm to the possible manufacturing of the polymer composite for light load applications. These results contribute to a better understanding of the effects of alkali treatment on cellulose fibers and provide valuable insights into their potential applications in various industries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The fabrication of charcoal briquettes was considered using two distinct bases: palmyra palm and oil palm shells. The critical role of binders – namely tapioca starch, molasses, and termite mound clay (TMC) – were emphasized in influencing the properties of the briquettes. ANOVA results revealed that both the type of binder and charcoal significantly impacted various characteristics, such as proximate components like volatile matter content, and physical properties including combustion time. Briquettes made from palmyra palm shells notably demonstrated superior performance in terms of combustion time and onset time of saturation (OTS). Among the binders, tapioca starch was distinguished for contributing to the lowest ash content and the highest fixed carbon in the briquettes. Conversely, briquettes bound with TMC, despite having the lowest volatile matter percentage, also exhibited the highest ash content and fragility, in addition to the shortest combustion time. These findings highlight the importance of selecting appropriate binders to enhance the efficiency and sustainability of charcoal briquettes, aligning with the increasing demand for environmentally conscious energy solutions in the face of escalating global energy needs.

This study explores the physicochemical, composition, and functional properties of the Borassus flabellifer mesocarp powder following treatment with naringinase. The debittered mesocarp powder (DMP) has good water-holding (9.4 g/g), swelling (7.8 g/g), and wettability (12.3 s) capacities. Naringinase reduced 33.2% of the DMP particle size, causing an increase in surface area. A larger surface area traps more water/oil molecules, contributing to a higher water/oil capacity. However, the solubility, swelling, and wettability of DMP were markedly decreased following naringinase treatment. Nonetheless, although DMP has higher saponin, phenol, tannin, and DPPH activity contents than the control, it has decreased ferrous-reducing activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A variation study of physical and chemical properties at different radial and axial levels of Borassus flabellifer tree was carried out for the first time. An increasing trend in specific gravity from the centre (NC) towards near the bark (NB) has been observed at all three highest i.e. bottom, middle, and top of the tree. Colour analysis of the wood samples has shown a decreasing order of colour intensity (light to dark) from the NC to the NB positions. Holocellulose, hemicellulose, α-cellulose, and lignin content ranged from 64.19 to 73.42%, 17.5 to 26.85%, 42.22 to 51.02%, and 24.57 to 26.98% respectively. Lignin content was found maximum for the middle of the tree, followed by top and bottom height. Total extractives and ash content were found 1.92%–5.43% and 0.94%–1.69% respectively. This study found that B. flabellifer wood can be potentially utilised for various purposes, such as paper and pulp, and furniture making. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Natural fibers have been extensively used for many decades. This work investigates the suitability of Borassus flabellifer sprout fiber, a new class of fibers, as reinforcement in polymer matrix composites. Borassus flabellifer sprouts are also called palm sprouts. The fibers were extracted by the water retting method and treated with 5% sodium hydroxide (NaOH) to remove the impurities present in the fiber to achieve better bonding with the matrix. Scanning electron microscopic images of raw and alkali treated Borassus sprout fibers were studied. Composite specimens were made with 20, 25, 30 and 35 volume % of treated and untreated palm sprout fibers, respectively, in a polyester matrix by the hand layup technique and by the compression molding technique. Tensile strength, flexural strength, compression strength, impact strength, hardness and water absorption of sample specimens were determined. Experimental results showed that the composite specimens with 35 volume % of treated palm sprout fibers as reinforcement performed better in all aspects. They have 30.34% higher tensile strength, 34.47% higher flexural strength, 3.14% increased compression strength and 15.56% better impact strength and 7.6% less water absorption than the composite plates reinforced with 35% untreated palm sprout fibers. Thus, the composites showed adequate mechanical properties to be considered for specific applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Palmyra palm peel served as raw material for preparing activated carbon. In addition to its high cellulose content, palmyra palm shells are also easily found in Gresik and Tuban, East Java. Palmyra palm shell is also an abundant solid waste with low economic value, so using palmyra palm shells as raw material for activated carbon production is low cost to reduce the contaminant in liquid waste. This experiment aims to determine the effectiveness of palmyra palm peel as a bio-adsorbent for heavy metal ions Fe(III) and Cr(VI) in industrial waste. This research was conducted through 3 processes: chemical activation, carbonization, and adsorption. The methods used in this study consisted of pre-treatment, activation of raw materials, manufacture of standard solutions, calibration of standard solutions, and adsorption of heavy metals from textile waste. The carbons' activation was conducted at 600 and 700oC in the presence of KOH as the activating agent. The results are a water content of 17.50% and an ash content of 8.37%. The moisture content and ash produced results comply with the SII and SNI 06-3730-1995 standards. The carbon produced at 700oC has a better adsorption performance than that produced at 600oC. The maximum removal efficiency for Fe(III) was 95.25, and Cr(VI) was 89.7%. Two wellknown equations, Langmuir and Freundlich, were used to correlate the experimental adsorption data. Langmuir equation could represent the data better than Freundlich with an R² value close to unity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recent scientific evidence recommends that many of the adverse effects of chemotherapy can be prevented by remedying treatment with antioxidants, minerals, carbohydrates, proteins, and organic acids. The current research was performed to assess haematopoietic and immunomodulatory effects using sap of traditional tree, Borassus flabellifer, in cyclophosphamide induced haematotoxicity and immunosuppression in Wistar rats. For eleven consecutive days, the animals were orally pre-treated with Borassus flabellifer sap (3.6 mL/kg). These animals were intra-peritoneally injected on the sixth day with cyclophosphamide (150 mg/kg) and sacrificed five days later. On the final day of the trial, blood samples were obtained from each rat and carried out evaluation of haematological (red blood cells, haemoglobin, mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration, reticulocytes & serum iron content) and immunomodulatory (total leucocyte count, cellular immune response & tumor necrosis factor-a) parameters. To determine their index values, each rat's thymus and spleen were separated. By elevating red blood cells, haemoglobin, mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration, reticulocytes & serum iron content, sap of Borassus flabellifer demonstrated an important protective role in cyclophosphamide mediated haematotoxicity. It has also shown substantial resistance against immunosuppression caused by cyclophosphamide by increasing the immunity boosting white blood cells and decreasing the hypersensitivity reaction and tumor necrosis factor-a level at the 3.6 mL/kg dose. The current research shows that therapy with traditional Borassus flabellifer sap has a major protective effect against oxidative stress, haematotoxicity and immunosuppression against cyclophosphamide induced haematotoxicity and immunosuppression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The World Health Organization declared COVID-19 a global pandemic on March 11, 2020. India confirmed its first case of COVID-19 on 30 January and within 8 weeks the total number of cases had crossed the 1000 mark. Methods: An Observational comparative study was done to see the clinic epidemiological profile, and identify the determinants of COVID 19 patients admitted in the hospital in the last 1 year in both the first and second waves with respect to. All individuals testing positive for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 RNA using reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction were included. Results: A total of 1710 was hospitalized, 701 (40.9%) and 1009 (59.1%) were involved in first and second wave. The mean age was 42.58 ± 13.99 and 45.32 ± 14.18 and majority of them were belong to the 20–60 years and the comparison was showing statistically significant (P = 0.004). The participants affected with the risk factors like smoking 276 (27.3) and alcohol 237 (23.5) with P < 0.0001. The duration of stay was (median 6 [inter quartile range (IQR) 3–7] days in the first wave vs. median 7 [IQR 3–9] days in the second wave; P < 0.001). Conclusion: The second wave had shown more aggressive nature in spreading the COVID-19 infection than the first wave. Besides the steep rise of the cases, there has been more among the patients with commodities and risk factors in the second wave. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Around the world, the number of people with diabetes is rising at an alarming rate, and experts have been using ancient drugs that are mostly made from plants as treatments.This study aimed to see if Borassus flabellifer L. palm sprout ethanolic extracts could help treat diabetes in rats made diabetic by streptozotocin (STZ). Methods: STZ (45 mg/kg bw) was injected once into the peritoneum of male albino Wistar rats. This caused them to get diabetes. For 60 days, intragastric intubation was used to give diabetic rats B. flabellifer palm sprout ethanolic extracts (400 mg/kg bw) and glibenclamide (1 mg/kg bw). Results: As a result, the rats lost a lot of weight, their blood sugar and glycosylated hemoglobin levels went up, and their total hemoglobin (Hb) levels went down. Furthermore, glucose-6-phosphatase and fructose-1,6-bis phosphatase were higher in rats made diabetic by STZ, while hexokinase and glycogen levels were lower. When diabetic rats were given ethanolic extracts of B. flabellifer palm sprouts and glibenclamide, their blood glucose and glycosylated Hb levels went down very well, and their Hb levels went up. Changes in how enzymes that break down carbohydrates and liver glycogen work were greatly improved. Conclusion: The results of the ethanolic extracts of B. flabellifer palm sprouts were similar to those of the standard drug glibenclamide. The results of this study back up the traditional use of plant extracts to treat diabetes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Palmyra tree has its own cultural, nutritional, and medicinal values from ancient times. Every part of the tree is useful either in its native form or a modified form, though the seeds is generally neglected by people as a waste and are not utilized. The current study is conducted with the germinated seed embryo of Asian Palmyra palm (Borassus flabellifer) termed as Palmyra haustorium (PH). The nutritional, phytochemical, and nutraceutical aspects were evaluated to explore the pharmacological significance of three different samples prepared from Palmyra haustorium (PH) i.e., Palmyra haustorium powder (PHP), Palmyra haustorium milk (PHM) and Palmyra haustorium milk extracted cake powder (PHMCP). The PHP is found to be superior in all nutritional aspects compared to other samples analyzed in the study. Proximate analysis of PH samples has shown that it is rich in carbohydrates, protein, and fiber but negligible in fat while PHMCP is a greater source of fiber content. Mineral analysis has shown that PHP is rich in Potassium and Phosphorus, moderate in Calcium and Sodium levels, whereas PHMCP is rich in Iron. High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GCMS) analysis showed the presence of different phenolic compounds like Gallic acid and chlorogenic acid in all PH samples; similarly various phytochemicals such as Clindamycin, Sucrose, Hexadecanoic acid, Myristic acid were present in these samples. Functional groups present in samples were identified as aldehydes, primary amines, alkanes were carried out by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. The results depict that the germinated seed embryo of Palmyra palm is rich in macro and micronutrients that act as nutraceuticals in enhancing the human health and well-being. Also these products may help in mitigating the effects of malnutrition, prevalent among the vulnerable population and PHM can be an alternate nutrient for individuals susceptible to digest lactose. [Display omitted] • The Palmyra seed embryo powder (PHP) is nutritionally superior especially rich in carbohydrates, proteins and minerals like potassium and phosphorus. • The presence of phenolic compounds like gallic acid, chlorogenic acid, rutin, caffeic acid improves the health condition by its property to scavenge free radicals. • The phytochemical like oleic acid, an unsaturated fatty acid is good to consume as it possesses cardio-protective effect. • The current study highlights the potent nutritional quality and explores the phytochemicals in Borassus flabellifer seed embryo samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is a demand for Palmyra palm (Borassus flabellifer) tender endosperm (Taal; Nungu) in the off season due to its health benefits. To extend the shelf life of Palmyra palm Tender Fruit Endosperm (PTFE) it was thermally processed. The versatile retort processing technology was used to increase the shelf life. Processed tender endosperm packed in transparent retort pouches (TRP) and nontransparent retort pouches (NTRP) were evaluated for textural, color, microbial, and sensorial properties. Heat penetration tests and F- values were also determined. Processed tender endosperm was compared with fresh endosperm and there was a shelf life of 6 months under ambient storage conditions (30-32°C). The process time to reach lethality in nontransparent pouches (14.03 min) was higher than that in transparent pouches (13.02 min) and the difference may be due to the layer addition of packaging material. Textural profile analysis revealed that hardness, gumminess, and chewiness decreased when the processing and storage time was increased. The sensory score obtained similar results to the textural analysis (Hardness value of TRP:5.063kgfand NTRP: 4.58kgf); succulence and toughness decreased over the prolonged processing time. The tender endosperm in metalized retort pouches scored higher (7.9 as overall acceptability) than that in transparent retort pouches (7.8 as overall acceptability) in terms of sensory analysis. Retorted pouches were microbiologically safe until 6 months with the absence of Clostridium, Staphylococcus and Salmonella spp. The present experiment on shelf life extension of Palmyra tender endosperm (Nungu) helps in preserving the perishable healthy delicacy for more months and also enables to fetch higher income for the farmers with minimal investment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present work, an attempt was made to improve the mechanical properties of the coir fiber reinforced epoxy composites through addition of high strength sisal and palmyra palm fibers. The hybrid composites were fabricated using compression molding technique by maintaining the volume fraction of fiber to matrix as 40:60. In the hybrid composites, the volume fraction of coir was maintained as 20%, while the volume fraction of other fibers was varied from 5% to 15%. The mechanical properties of the hybrid composites were investigated as a function of fiber volume fraction of sisal and palmyra palm fibers. The outcomes revealed that the hybrid composite have higher mechanical properties than the coir fiber composites due to synergistic effect of reinforcements. Furthermore, the morphological studies were carried out on the mechanical tested samples to predict the failure mechanisms.

Objective: Functional foods play important roles in the management of health; the haustoria from the Cocos nucifera and Borassus flabellifer are less explored for their nutritional benefits. Therefore, the study evaluated the proximate composition, biological and anti-diabetic effects of the CH and BH. Methods: The total polyphenol content of coconut and palmyra palm haustorium was conducted using the standard Folin-Ciocalteu based assay. The radical scavenging properties of Coconut and Palmyra palm haustorium was analyzed by DPPH radical scavenging assay, Lipid peroxidation inhibition as well as by hydrogen peroxide scavenging assay. Anti-diabetic activity of the coconut and palmyra palm haustorium extracts were analyzed in terms of the inhibition of α-amylase and α-glucosidase activities. Results: The results indicated significantly higher amounts of protein, fiber, and fat content in BH. Similarly, higher polyphenol content was present in BH. Substantiating these results, the anti-DPPH radical and anti-hydrogen peroxide radical was higher in BH (18.66 ± 2.09 and 30.73 ± 2.37 µg/mL); likewise, the BH had higher lipoygenase inhibition and nitric oxide scavenging potential (42.14 ± 3.45 and 72.12 ± 4.02 µg/mL). Both the extracts exhibited anti-diabetic activity (58.61 ± 2.98 and 91.17 ± 3.52 µg/mL), however a higher concentration was required for CH compared to the BH. Conclusion: The Palmyra palm and coconut haustorium are highly nutritional in terms of the various components. By virtue of these compounds, the BH and CH may evolve as possible functional foods over time.

Asian palmyra palm (Borassus flabellifer L.) is a multipurpose tree with year round products as food for the dependent society. Besides edible items the tree offers around 801 useful goods which are economically important. Such a plant's seedling bilogy has not been fully understood. Hence, the present study was aimed at understanding seedling developmental stages and resource mobilisation in Palmyra palm and further to determine the role of cotyledonary sheath (CS) during entire seedling growth. We investigated the developmental changes throughout growth of seedlings by providing different sets of growth conditions. Artificial seed bed made of coconut coir was compared with that of soil conditions to study germination and establishment of seedlings. Phloem loading dye was used to track the flow of nutrients from embryo to cotyledonary sheath. Seed germination in palmyra palm is hypogeal by forming ligular and tubular structures remotely in soil. Eight new organs differentiate from the seed embryo that includes haustorium, ligule, cotyledonary sheath, cataphyll, eophyll, mesocotyle (junction), primary root and mesocotyl roots during seed germination. Among these the first four are temporary organs and they disentegrate once the seedling is well established. The last four organs are responsible for developing a complete plantlet at later stages. The seed and seedling organs of Palmyra palm have four major storage reserves to support successful germination and firm establishment of seedling. Palmyra has evolved to control the solubilisation, movement and regulation of food among transient seedling organs and carry out translocation of food to the developing and differentiating organs. Seedlings also have developed physiological functions and strategies to mobilise the stored food without losing them at any point of their growth and developmental stages. Water required for seed germination permeates laterally only via cotyledonary sheath which has spongy tissues and lenticels all over. These tissues are the primary mode of water supply as the seedlings lack major root organs in the early stages of development. Flourescent microscopic and anatomical studies were carried out to observe the transport and storage of food substances required during seedling growth. Histochemical studies of seedling organs have revealed the presence of various type of nutrients such as simple sugars, carbohydrates, proteins, amino acids and lipids. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents the discussion on Manuscripts being an essential part of the study of the cultural history of human race. Topics include Granthas being the collection of palm leaf manuscripts preserved in wooden flaps; and Palmyra leaves being thick and coarse, making them difficult to work with whereas talipot palm leaves being thin, flexible, and handled like paper.

Borassus flabelliger's fruit peel fiber is one of the plantation wastes that has not been optimally used. Meanwhile, it contains several crude fibers including cellulose, which is sufficient and can be isolated for various purposes. The aim of this study was to determine the characteristics of cellulose from siwalan fruit peel fiber (Borassus flabellifer). The isolation was conducted through a chemical process that comprises hydrolysis, delignification, and bleaching. Furthermore, water content, pH, form and Fourier Transform-Infrared (FTIR) analysis were the physical characterization and standardization parameters used to assess the Borassus flabellifer cellulose. The tests carried out showed that the isolate had a pH of 6.8 and a moisture content of 7.34%. The Fourier Transform-Infrared (FTIR) showed absorption at 3323.34 for O-H, 2893.22 for C-H, 1371.38 for C-O-H, and 1157.28 for C-O, which revealed that the values are the typical cellulose peaks. The results showed that cellulose isolated from Borassus flabellifer fruit peel fibers has numerous similarities with the standard synthetic cellulose used. Additionally, a large cellulose yield of 12.3% (w/w) was obtained from the fruit peel, hence, further development is needed because the isolate can serve as an alternative for animal gelatin made from pigskin. It is also a halal guaranteed product and can fully meet various pharmaceutical industries' needs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present work, an attempt was made to improve the mechanical properties of the coir fiber reinforced epoxy composites through addition of high strength sisal and palmyra palm fibers. The hybrid composites were fabricated using compression molding technique by maintaining the volume fraction of fiber to matrix as 40:60. In the hybrid composites, the volume fraction of coir was maintained as 20%, while the volume fraction of other fibers was varied from 5% to 15%. The mechanical properties of the hybrid composites were investigated as a function of fiber volume fraction of sisal and palmyra palm fibers. The outcomes revealed that the hybrid composite have higher mechanical properties than the coir fiber composites due to synergistic effect of reinforcements. Furthermore, the morphological studies were carried out on the mechanical tested samples to predict the failure mechanisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work exposes the mechanical attributes, characterization and thermal behaviors of alkali treated banana fiber (BF), coir fiber (CF) and palm fiber (PF) of Asian palmyra reinforced with polyester composites are expressed. Due to the high tensile attributes of banana fiber, in this experimental work banana fiber has considered as a base material, palm and coir fibers are utilized as fillers. The natural fiber composite specimens were fabricated through injection moulding method by varying the weight percentages of fibers. The mechanical behaviors were determined by tensile, flexural, impact, hardness tests. The Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) morphological examines were carried out on the mechanical tested specimens to expect the fracture failure mechanisms. The thermal stability/degradation was observed by Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA). Furthermore, Atomic Force microscopy (AFM) used as a tool to estimate the surface forces and roughness for treated fibers. The results revealed that the inclusion of three different fibers enhanced the overall mechanical, thermal features and reduced the surface roughness. This type of composite can be useful for various engineering domains. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Palmyra palm (Borassusflabellifer L.), is one of the palm trees highly associated with farmers in agro-forestry system in Indonesia. About 28,068 farmers cultivated 9,355 hectares of palmyra palm in East Java, Indonesia. Two regions which have highest palmyra palm in East Java are Sumenep in Madura islands and Tuban in Eastjava mainland with production areas of about 5,535.70 and 1,832.45 hectares respectively. Pasuruan has special and well-known fresh palmyra palm sap, but there is scarcity of data on the number of plants or areas planted. However, development of industries at the area has displaced a large number of palmyras due to land use change. Field surveys were carried out at Gunungsari village, Beji district in Pasuruan, a single village of palmyra in Pasuruan; in the districts of Semanding and Palang in Tuban, and three districts, Pragaan, Lenteng, and Dungkek in Sumenep. One or two villages in Tuban and Sumenep were selected based on information from local official governments. A total of 180 palmyra farmers comprising of30 farmers from each study district were interviewed. The interview solicited several information including the use of palmyra plant parts such as leaves, fruits, sap, trunks and other parts. Results of the study showed that there were several differences in the uses of palmyra palm plant parts across three regions in East Java. Uses of leaves, fruits, sap, trunks and other parts of palmyra palm varied in each region both on the type of use and on the percentage of each use. The differences may be as a result of different cultural characteristics of regions and populations studied. For instance, farmers in Pasuruan and Tuban use almost all plant partsjust like those in Eastjava mainland, and both regions have massive industrial development. Farmers in Sumenep, Madura differed mostly in their use of almost all parts of palmyra plant, especially leaves and sap. Leaves and sap appeared as most used parts in the three regions and have more commercial value than other parts. Uses of plant parts as traditional medicine and processed fruits seemed comparatively low in all the three regions. Based on the differences in characteristics of the utilization of plant parts in three regions of East Java, it appears that Pasuruan is superior in fresh sap; Tuban in fresh fruits and Sumenep Madura withjaggery and palmyra leaf weaving products and raw leaves. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Natural sweeteners made from sugarcane and palmyra palm are widely used for their high nutritional value and claimed health benefits. In the present study, sugarcane liquid sweeteners namely refined sugar syrup, liquid jaggery prepared from Co 62175, Co 86032 and VCF-517 sugarcane varieties and palmyra palm liquid jaggery were evaluated for physico-chemical properties including DPPH radical scavenging activity and sensory characteristics. Results of the physico-chemical analysis indicated neutral to slightly alkaline pH (7.06-7.68) in all the samples. Among the sweeteners, palmyra palm liquid jaggery had highest conductivity, colour, reducing sugars, total phenol and protein content. High sucrose content was observed in refined sugar syrup (69.6 %) whereas low sucrose content was noted in palmyra palm liquid jaggery (51.6%). Sugarcane liquid jaggery of VCF 517 variety showed highest DPPH radical scavenging activity (17.3%) followed by palmyra palm liquid jaggery (16.3%). Sensory evaluation revealed higher scores for palmyra palm liquid jaggery for sweetness (>13 units) and overall acceptance attributes (>12 units). These research findings support the use of palmyra palm liquid jaggery over sugarcane liquid sweeteners for better health benefits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to explore communities and the ethanol-fermenting ability of yeasts in fresh coconut, palmyra, and nipa palm saps. From the 90 samples of coconut, palmyra, and nipa palm saps, 204 yeast isolates were isolated and identified as 15 species in the phylum Ascomycota and a species (one strain) in Basidiomycota. Saccharomyces cerevisiae, Hanseniaspora guilliermondii, and Lachancea thermotolerans were found in the saps of all three palm species. Candida tropicalis and Pichia kudriavzevii were obtained from the coconut and palmyra palm saps, Hanseniaspora vineae, Lachancea fermentati, and Pichia manshurica were present in the coconut and nipa palm saps, whereas Torulaspora delbrueckii was found in the palmyra and nipa palm saps. The species with the highest occurrence in the saps of coconut, palmyra, and nipa palms was S. cerevisiae with 76.67%, 86.70%, and 100% frequency of occurrence, respectively. Using principal coordinates analysis for ordination, no marked difference was observed in the yeast communities from the saps of the three palm species. A total of 199 isolates were found to possess ethanol-fermentation ability when cultivated using shake flask in 160 g/L of glucose medium at 28°C for 48 h. Lachancea fermentati YSP-383, isolated from nipa palm sap, produced the highest amount of ethanol (76.74 g/L). Twenty-six isolates of Candida sanyaensis (1), C. tropicalis (1), H. guilliermondii (7), L. fermentati (8), L. thermotolerans (1), Pichia kudriavzevii (2), and S. cerevisiae (6) produced high amounts of ethanol ranging from 69.57 to 76.74 g/L. The result demonstrated that yeasts in the palm saps could play roles in the natural fermentation of palm saps. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sugar profile, antioxidant properties, DNA damages, and in vitro predicted glycaemic index (pGI) of palm sugars (syrup and powder) were investigated in comparison with refined cane sugar. It was found that palm sugars exhibited better nutritional qualities than refined cane sugars. Palm sugars in both syrup and powder forms showed similar results, except in some properties. They contained a high content of fructose and glucose. They also exhibited better antioxidant properties, as evidenced by the high content of phenolic compounds and flavonoids. This contributed to their great antioxidant activities when assessed by DPPH radical scavenging activity and FRAP assay. The addition of palm sugar extracts to the reaction mixture effectively protected against DNA damage. For pGI, the mixture of corn starch and palm sugars showed slow digestion rate and, consequently, lower pGI values than those of refined cane sugars. Nutritional and functional properties of palm sugars were thought to be influenced by their retained phytonutrients, as they were processed under mild conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The cellulose micro fibers (CMF) were extracted from the milled Borassus flabellifer using alkali treatment, bleaching and acid hydrolysis. The purified CMF was functionalized with ZnO nanoparticles and PVA matrix by ultrasonic-assisted solution process. Various properties of the resultant material was investigated which include structural, optical, morphological, thermal, mechanical, functional and electrical properties. The structural, functional and morphological studies show the fine intercalation between the ZnO and CMF. The changes in the electrical and mechanical properties were noticed with the influence of ZnO. Moreover, the significant changes in the functional, optical, morphological and electrical properties were observed for the ozone-exposed film. The ozone exposure enhances the surface uniformity, increase the electrical conductivity due to decrease in band gap. These findings are clearly illustrated the composite of cellulose, ZnO and PVA (CZP) and ozone exposed CZP could be used as biocompatible materials for electronic device applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Borassus flabelifer peroxidase was ionically interacting with stone parts of its fruit. The apparently homogeneous membrane bound peroxidase was reversibly inhibited by various aromatic alcohols. Dixon plot clearly showed mixed type of inhibition. Ki values of peroxidase-inhibitor complexes were determined. The homogenous peroxidase had non-covalently interacting triglycerides or triglyceride esterified phytosterols. This Peroxidase was interacting with acid hydrolysable low density lipoprotein but not with high density lipoprotein. This may be one of the reasons for its stability and catalysis in organic solvents. Further studies may prove it as lipophilic enzyme. These waste stone parts may be utilized in extracting phytosterols and fatty acids which has medicinal value. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

characterize the olive cultivars to the application adopted by the International Olive Council, and to study the most important technological characterization (size of fruits and stones, their weight and pulp / stone ratio). Morphological characteristics the field tours demonstrated that 19 olive cutivars (Abadi Abou Ghabra, Abadi Hlou, Abadi Khinfsi, Abadi Shelal, Abou Anakeed, Abou Akfa, Abeid Men Umu, Abou Chouka, Adkam, Izmerli, Bnt Al Kadi, Jlot, Herqtani, Mhati, M- Hazam Abou Satel, Um Qanani, Rsasi, Shami, Tuffahi) were planted in Palmyra, and the two cultivars "Jlot" and "M-hazam Abou Satel" are the dominant in Palmyra. The results of the morphological study, which included the fruits and stones of the olive cultivars, showed that a great diversity among them, so in term of their technological characterization the varieties distributed in five groups according to the size fruits and seeds stones, and four ones according to each parameter of weight of fruits and stones and pulp / stone ratio. The cultivars "Jlot", "M-hazam Abou Satel" and "Abeid Men Umu" were distinctive cultivars (according to their productivity and technological properties), making them important table olive cultivars for propagation and cultivation in the central regions of Syria, as a prelude to achieve the surplus production prepared for high quality export. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The palmyra palm (Borassus flabellifer Linn.) is a multipurpose tree. It is commonly found along the coasts of Africa, South Asia and Southeast Asia due to its strong tap root system’s ability to store a large volume of water and raise the water table level in the surrounding area. Several uses of this plant include beverages, food, medicine, fiber and timber. Unfortunately, due to the short shelf-life of palmyra palm fruit, more than 60% of the annual fruit yield is lost within 10 days of harvesting, and there is limited commercial use of ripe palm fruit. As a result, the physical properties, physicochemical properties, and proximate composition of value-added gummy jelly from palmyra palm were evaluated. The results showed that up to 26% (w/w) of fruit juice (prepared by mixing the mesocarp of ripe palmyra fruit with water (at a 1:1 w/w ratio) and then removing the insoluble pulp) can be added to the gummy jelly recipe with significant effects on textural and color characteristics, as well as changes in moisture, protein, carbohydrate and energy content.

In this study, we evaluated palmyra palm sugar (PJ) formulated medium for HA production using Streptococcus zooepidemicus MTCC 3523. Concurrently, effect of various carbon and nitrogen sources, an analysis of the effect of initial sugar concentration, on HA production were examined. The PJ - soya peptone based medium was found to be the most effective, and resulted in 0.54 ± 0.08 g L -1 of HA titer and specific growth rate of 0.5 ± 0.07 h -1 in shake-flask experiments. Kinetic experiments were performed in a bioreactor, and the initial PJ concentrations were varied from 10 - 50 g L -1 . Maximum HA and LA titers (1.22 g L -1 and 20. 2 g L -1 ) were obtained at 30 g L -1 PJ concentration in bioreactor. Han–Levenspiel substrate inhibition model exhibited best fit for the experimental data. The growth inhibitory PJ concentration was found to be at 90.5 g L -1 . Medium based process economic analysis proved PJ and soya peptone based medium as most economical for the production of HA. The present investigation validates the potential of PJ and soya peptone based medium for enhanced economical production of HA. This study will also provide new product dimensions and market avenues, to the marginalized palmyra palm farmers and toddy tapping community, who are unable to secure the right price for their product. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Utilization of biomass as a renewable and sustainable resource has attracted much attention around the world. For the first time, a new and green method has been developed to synthesize fluorescent carbon dots (CDs) using flowers obtained from Borassus flabellifer (male tree) by thermal pyrolysis. The synthesized CDs were comprehensively characterized by X-ray diffraction, high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HR-TEM), atomic force microscopy, zeta potential measurements, UV-Vis spectroscopy, fluorescence spectroscopy, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and Raman spectroscopy. These studies confirmed that the as-synthesized CDs were functionalized with the (–OH), (C–H), (C–O–C) and (C=O) groups. TEM analysis revealed that the particle sizes of the CDs were in the 3 to 8 ± 1 nm range. Upon increasing the excitation wavelength from 300 to 400 nm, the emission spectrum shifted from 300 to 403 nm. Furthermore, the interaction between the CDs and metal ions was evaluated by testing with various metal ions and the fluorescence intensity of the CDs was measured under 320 nm excitation. Excellent fluorescence quenching was observed only for Fe3+ ions compared to other metal ions such as Zn2+, Pb2+, Ni2+, Fe2+, Ca2+, Cu2+, Cr3+, Co2+ and Hg2+. The fluorescence intensity decreased after each addition of Fe3+ ions. The CDs were an efficient probe for detection of Fe3+ ions from 0 to 30 nM with a detection limit of 10 nM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The decay resistance of Palmyra palm wood (Borassus flabellifer), also referred to as sugar palm, was assessed in laboratory soil block tests against Oligoporus placenta, Gloeophyllum trabeum, Irpex lacteus, and Trametes versicolor as well as in a non-sterile soil burial test designed to encourage soft rot attack. Mass losses on pine control blocks were consistent with aggressive decay conditions for all but those exposed to Irpex lacteus, while mass losses for palm wood blocks exposed to the same fungi ranged from 0,46% to 10,6%. The magnitude of mass losses would categorize palm wood as resistant to highly decay resistant, suggesting that these materials might perform well in exterior above ground applications. Mass losses were weakly correlated with density suggesting that selection of denser wood will result in better performing materials in these applications. Field tests to confirm these results are encouraged. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article presents a parametric analysis of dry sliding wear process undergone by a new class of composite material consisting of epoxy and short palmyra fibers (SPF). It is an attempt to explore the possibility of improving the dry sliding wear resistance of neat epoxy by reinforcing it SPF. Palmyra fiber is an inexpensive, strong, and naturally available fiber derived from the stalks of palmyra leaf. In the present investigation, epoxy‐based composites with different weight proportions of SPF (0, 4, 8, and 12 wt%) are fabricated although the simple hand‐lay‐up route. The tensile, flexural, and micro‐hardness properties of the samples are found out which is followed by a FTIR spectroscopy of the samples. The composite samples are then subjected to wear trials using a pin‐on‐disc test rig as per ASTM G 99‐05 test standards under different operating conditions. The effects of various operational variables on the dry sliding wear behavior of these epoxy composites with and without SPF reinforcement are studied. The design of experiments approach using Taguchi's L16 orthogonal array is used for parametric analysis of the wear process. Significant parameters affecting the wear rate of epoxy are identified. This study revealed that while the fiber content and the sliding velocities have significant influence on the wear arte of the composites, the effects of sliding distance and normal load are ignorable. An optimal parameter setting for minimum specific wear rate is obtained. The morphologies of the worn surfaces are examined by scanning electron microscopy and possible wear mechanisms are identified. POLYM. COMPOS., 39:1827–1834, 2018. © 2016 Society of Plastics Engineers [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tender palmyra (Borassus flabellifer) fruit endosperm, also known as ice apple is consumed during the summer months especially in Southern and Eastern India. The endosperm is manually removed from the tender palmyra fruit using a heavy knife or sickle by the road side vendors before it is consumed. An investigation on retail film packaging was conducted to study the shelf life of tender palmyra endosperm in sealed packages. The research was carried out to study the effect of packaging films of different thickness on the physio-sensory properties of the endosperm under ambient (32±2°C) and refrigerated (5 ±1°C) conditions. The endosperm was packed in polypropylene bags of 40 and 80 micron thickness and low density polyethylene bags of 150 and 450 micron thickness and High Molecular density (HM) polyethylene bags of 40 micron thickness. The packed samples were kept for storage under ambient and refrigerated conditions. They were evaluated for the changes in weight loss, TSS and also firmness, colour and odour by subjective evaluation at periodic interval during storage. The weight loss was minimum for the sample packed in 450 micron Low Density Polyethylene bag under refrigerated storage. Sensory scores revealed that the overall acceptability(5.0) of palmyra endosperm packed in 450 micron thickness Low Density Poly Ethylene was highest at the end of storage under ambient condition. Similarly, highest overall acceptability (4.0) was observed in High Molecular density polyethylene bag of 40 micron thickness at refrigerated storage. Under normal conditions, palmyra endosperm is prone to spoilage within few hours due to oxidation and fermentation. The results of the study revealed that the shelf life of palmyra endosperm could be extended up to two days under ambient condition, when packed in Low Density Poly Ethylene bag of 450 micron thickness, whereas under refrigerated condition, shelf life could be up to eight days, when packed in high molecular density polyethylene bags of 40 micron thickness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The dissolution behavior of mild steel in 2 M H2SO4 with various concentrations of Borassus Flabellifer Seed Food (BFSF), Musa Paradisiaca Dry Leaf (MPDL), and Saccharum Officinarum Bagasse (SOB) was evaluated using both mass loss and electrochemical methods. It is evident from the results that the biomaterial extracts could be precious inhibitors for the corrosion of mild steel in sulfuric acid media. The inhibition efficiency of the tested inhibitors enhanced with increase in BFSF, MPDL, and SOB concentrations but diminished with increasing temperature. The free energy of the adsorption, apparent activation energy, enthalpy, and entropy of the dissolution process were discussed at 35-60 °C. Impedance curves showed that the charge transfer resistance increased and double-layer capacitance decreased with increase in concentration of tested inhibitors. Scanning electron microscope images revealed that the damage of mild steel surface has diminished in the presence of BFSF, MPDL, and SOB. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study demonstrates the performance and characterisation of Borassus Flabellifer shell derived Nano Composite (BNC) in the adsorption process for the removal of reactive diazo dyes. Borassus flabellifer shell, an agricultural waste material, is evaluated and subjected to activation under CO 2 atmosphere to obtain Borassus Flabellifer shell derived activated carbon (BAC). The resulted BAC is modified as BNC using magnetite nanoparticles by precipitation method. The texture and composition of BAC and BNC are observed by various analytical determinations like pH pZc , FTIR, powder-XRD, BET surface area, FE-SEM, EDX and VSM analysis. The batch study is conducted by varying pH, dosage, initial concentration and equilibration time. The experimental studies are carried out using the optimised data and the maximum removal capacity of BNC for the adsorption of reactive yellow 84 (RY84) is found to be 40 mg/g. The Langmuir equation suits the best-fit equilibrium adsorption isotherm model, which predicts the monolayer adsorption of RY84. The reaction kinetics of the adsorption process is best expressed by pseudo-second order model equation. The thermodynamic parameters attribute the spontaneous and endothermic processes involved in the adsorption mechanism. The recovery of BAC and BNC are attempted and examined, while the regeneration of BNC is successful up to four cycles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Breeding of the Red-headed Falcon Falco chicquera is being reported from Bahour Lake in Union Territory of Puducherry along with the breeding period observations. The falcon nesting on the Palmyra palm Borassus flabellifer is reported for the first time from the country. The courtship was observed in mid-January and chicks fledged in mid-April. Incubation lasted 37 days, chicks fledged in 34-37 days, become nest independent in 40-43 days and become independent from parental care in 69-72 days. Feeding frequency for 27-30 days old chicks were five prey deliveries during a two hours' observation in the morning. Fledglings were adult size, but with brownish crown and moustachial stripe, pale collar, maroon shoulders, darker wings and buff tinge on the underside; and were observed to retain the foraging territory in nesting area even after one month of removal from parental care. Availability of quality crow nest in areas of good prey density could be a decisive factor in selecting breeding location; many crow nests on Palmyra palms were noticed in Puducherry region. The palm nesting falcon could face additional threats from toddy and fruit extractors since the breeding season coincides with the flowering and fruiting season of Palmyra. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The mainstream discourses on global climate change have tended to focus on mitigation and have neglected the adaptive measures, particularly at the local level, even though the local/indigenous people have been considered to be more vulnerable to such change. However, climate change has a distinct local reality—since the way such change is perceived and addressed is linked with the local people and their practices. Although climate change largely affects the lives of the local poor, certain positive effects may also occur for those marginalized people. In other words, many of the indigenous peoples have an adaptive capacity to deal with climate change. Therefore, climate change adaptation has now increasingly gained prominence. In this context, this paper will investigate the impact of climate change at the local level and explain how an indigenous and vulnerable population, the Konda Reddis, respond to such change through cultural adaptation. The paper will focus on the cultural significance of the jeelugu (fishtail palm, Caryota urens) and Konda Reddis’ shift from the jeelugu to the tati (palmyra palm, Borassus flabellifera). I will argue that such a shift is an indication of an adaptation to climate change. I will also maintain that though climate change plays a dominant role in stimulating such adaptation, certain other factors also interact with climatic factors in the adaptation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed at optimizing the conditions required for maximal extraction of flavonoids from the seed coat of Borassus flabellifer and to evaluate antioxidant properties. Initially, the parameters like time, temperature, solvent concentration and material ratio were optimized using orthogonal design of experiments. Temperature was found to play a significant role in the maximum extraction of flavonoids and the optimum conditions were found to be 85°, 3 h, 70 % aqueous-ethanol and 1:20 material ratio. The crude samples were tested for antioxidant activity using the 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl radical scavenging assay. Percent inhibition of the 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl radical was found highest (95 %) at 50 μg/ml concentration of the extract of seed coat of B. flabellifer. Flavonoids were then purified using preparative thin layer chromatography. The purified sample did not reveal significant antioxidant activities. Hence, further purification of the sample is needed to obtain better results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed at optimizing the conditions required for maximal extraction of flavonoids from the seed coat of Borassus flabellifer and to evaluate antioxidant properties. Initially, the parameters like time, temperature, solvent concentration and material ratio were optimized using orthogonal design of experiments. Temperature was found to play a significant role in the maximum extraction of flavonoids and the optimum conditions were found to be 85°, 3 h, 70 % aqueous-ethanol and 1:20 material ratio. The crude samples were tested for antioxidant activity using the 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl radical scavenging assay. Percent inhibition of the 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl radical was found highest (95 %) at 50 μg/ml concentration of the extract of seed coat of B. flabellifer. Flavonoids were then purified using preparative thin layer chromatography. The purified sample did not reveal significant antioxidant activities. Hence, further purification of the sample is needed to obtain better results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Borassus flabellifer or Asian Palmyra palm is widely distributed in South and Southeast Asia and is horticultural and economic importance for its fruit and palm sugar production. However, its population is in rapid decline, and only a few genetic data are available. We sequenced the complete chloroplast (cp) genome of B. flabellifer to provide its genetic data for further utilization. Results: The cp genome was obtained by Illumina sequencing and manual gap fillings providing 160,021 bp in length containing a pair of inverted repeats (IRs) with 27,256 bp. These IRs divide the genome into a large single copy region 87,444 bp and a small single copy region 18,065 bp. In total, 113 unique genes, 134 SSRs and 47 large repeats were identified. This is the first complete cp genome reported in the genus Borassus. A comparative analysis among members of the Borasseae tribe revealed that the B. flabellifer cp genome is, so far, the largest and the cp genomes of this tribe have a similar structure, gene number and gene arrangement. A phylogenetic tree reconstructed based on 74 protein-coding genes from 70 monocots demonstrates short branch lengths indicating slow evolutionary rates of cp genomes in family Arecaceae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the increasing awareness of environmental consciousness, the scope of use of natural fibres has increased. They find application in many fields of engineering. Natural fibres are used along with synthetic fibres and reinforced in polymer matrix composites which results in a hybrid composite. In this work Palmyra palm leafstalk fibres (PPLSF) and carbon fibre (CF) were used as reinforcement in polyester matrix with randomly arrangement. The composite were fabricated by compression moulding process and mechanical properties of the composites were evaluated. Fabricated composites showed a positive hybrid effect due to the addition of CF along with the PPLSF in matrix. Increasing the CF loading showed a considerable increase in tensile, flexural and impact properties as compared to PPLSF composite. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) of fractured surfaces were analysed for the nature of fibre/matrix interface. The properties of the fabricated hybrid composites were also compared with the available natural fibres composites and reported. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Borassus flabellifer or Asian Palmyra palm is an important crop for local economies in the South and Southeast Asia for its fruit and palm sugar production. Archeological and historical evidence indicated the presence of this species in Southeast Asia dating back at least 1500 years. B. flabellifer is believed to be originated in Africa, spread to South Asia and introduced into Southeast Asia through commercial routes and dissemination of cultures, however, the nature of its invasion and settlement in Thailand is unclear. Results: Here, we analyzed genetic data of 230 B. flabellifer accessions across Thailand using 17 EST-SSR and 12 gSSR polymorphic markers. Clustering analysis revealed that the population consisted of two genetic clusters (STRUCTURE K = 2). Cluster I is found mainly in southern Thailand, while Cluster II is found mainly in the northeastern. Those found in the central are of an extensive mix between the two. These two clusters are in moderate differentiation (FST = 0.066 and NM = 3.532) and have low genetic diversity (HO = 0.371 and 0.416; AR = 2.99 and 3.19, for the cluster I and II respectively). The minimum numbers of founders for each genetic group varies from 3 to 4 individuals, based on simulation using different allele frequency assumptions. These numbers coincide with that B. flabellifer is dioecious, and a number of seeds had to be simultaneously introduced for obtaining both male and female founders. Conclusions: From these data and geographical and historical evidence, we hypothesize that there were at least two different invasive events of B. flabellifer in Thailand. B. flabellifer was likely brought through the Straits of Malacca to be propagated in the southern Thailand as one of the invasive events before spreading to the central Thailand. The second event likely occurred in Khmer Empire, currently Cambodia, before spreading to the northeastern Thailand. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Asian Palmyra palm, found throughout south and southeast Asia, is important for local economies, especially for sugar palm production. Unlike its related species, such as oil palm and coconut, only a few genetic markers are available for Asian Palmyra palm. In this study, we tested the transferability of molecular markers derived from oil palm, and a set of selected markers were used for evaluating the diversity of Asian Palmyra palm growing in Thailand. From 545 primer pairs of expressed sequence tag-simple sequence repeat (EST-SSR) and genomic simple sequence repeat (gSSR) markers, 317 (58.17%) primer pairs were able to amplify the Asian Palmyra palm DNA, and 19 (5.99%) pairs were polymorphic. After extensively genotyping 164 samples from 12 populations, we obtained 25 loci with the polymorphic information content (PIC) average of 0.37 and allele numbers ranging from one to five. The observed and expected heterozygosity ranged from 0 to 1 and 0 to 0.76, respectively. A dendrogram showed separation of the palm populations into two clades, between north-eastern and southern-central regions. This study provides a set of microsatellite markers for use in further genetic studies of Asian Palmyra palm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The first report on isolation and characterization of 2,3,4-trihydroxy-5-methylacetophenone ( 1 ), nicotinamide ( 2 ), and uracil ( 3 ) from palmyra palm syrup is described. Total phenolic content (TPC) and Total flavonoid content (TFC) of palm syrup were 244.70 ± 5.77 (mg gallic acid/kg of syrup) and 658.45 ± 27.86 (mg quercetin/kg of syrup), respectively. Compound 1 exhibited DPPH radical scavenging activity with an IC 50 value of 20.02 ± 0.14 μM which was better than ascorbic acid (IC 50 = 22.59 ± 0.30 μM). Compound 1 also showed broad spectrum antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli, Mycobacterium smegmatis, Staphylococcus aureus and Staphylococcus simulans . [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Visceral leishmaniasis ( VL) is a disease that results in approximately 50 000 human deaths annually. It is transmitted through the bites of phlebotomine sandflies and around two-thirds of cases occur on the Indian subcontinent. Indoor residual spraying ( IRS), the efficacy of which depends upon sandfly adults resting indoors, is the only sandfly control method used in India. Recently, in Bihar, India, considerable sandfly numbers have been recorded outdoors in village vegetation, which suggests that IRS may control only a portion of the population. The purpose of this study was to revisit previously published results that suggested some sandflies to be arboreal and to rest on outlying plants by using Centers for Disease Control light traps to capture sandflies in vegetation, including banana plants and palmyra palm trees, in two previously sampled VL-endemic Bihari villages. Over 3500 sandflies were trapped in vegetation over 12 weeks. The results showed the mean number of sandflies collected per trap night were significantly higher in banana trees than in other vegetation ( P = 0.0141) and in female rather than male palmyra palm trees ( P = 0.0002). The results raise questions regarding sandfly dispersal, oviposition and feeding behaviours, and suggest a need to refine current control practices in India and to take into account an evolving understanding of sandfly ecology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]