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The antimalarial properties of crude extracts from Quercus infectoria galls were investigated through bioassay-guided fractionation. Acetone (QIA) and methanol (QIM) crude extracts have been reported to have promising antimalarial activity against Plasmodium falciparum (3D7 strain). These extracts were subjected to fractionation using automated preparative high-performance liquid chromatography (prep-HPLC) to identify the most active fractions. Nine fractions were isolated from each extract, of which the fractions QIA11 and QIM16 showed antimalarial activity, with IC50 values of 17.65 ± 1.82 μg/mL and 24.21 ± 1.88 μg/mL, respectively. In comparison, the standard antimalarial drug artemisinin has an IC50 value of 0.004 ± 0.001 μg/mL). Through high-resolution liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (HR-LCMS) analysis of the fractions, four known compounds were successfully identified: gallic acid, ellagic acid, 1,3,6-tris-o-(3,4,5- trihydroxybenzoyl)-beta-d-glucose and 1-O,6-O-digalloyl-beta-D-glucose. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tree decline is a highly complex process and is inherently a function of manifold climatic, physiologic, and anthropogenic factors. Monitoring decline processes and their underlying dynamics primarily entails identifying their location and intensity across different ecosystems, for which airborne and satellite remote sensing approaches offer cost-effective and spatially explicit alternatives to field methods. Consumer-grade unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) can barely be used as standalone means for large-area monitoring due to their constrains in spatial and spectral domains. However, they could effectively be integrated alongside satellite data to unlock their information for subsequent upscaling on landscape level. We designed a novel two-step workflow to describe the severity of tree decline by linking UAV-RGB information to space-borne multispectral and digital elevation model (DEM) data over 15 forest sites dominated by Persian oak across the latitudinal gradient of Zagros Forests in western Iran. We display how to 1) leverage UAV as reference data across multiple structurally different Persian oak-dominated sites in semi-arid Zagros mountains of Iran; 2) link UAV, Copernicus DEM, and Sentinel-2 data to retrieve decline information within a model-driven context; and 3) analyze the sensitivity of models by means of a global variance-based sensitivity analysis. Results suggested a high association between UAV and field data on the intensity of decline, which enabled using sampled UAV data as reference to estimate the decline severity using space-borne data by means of semi-parametric generalized additive model (GAM) and non-parametric random forest (RF) approaches. Conclusively, this study provided a baseline for multi-scale analysis of tree decline using budget and partially free data sources, which can be of high scientific and practical assets for monitoring in remote, sparse, mountainous, and continuously degrading forest areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The advantages of nanoparticles in the treatments of cancer are rapidly growing, chemotherapy is considered the common treatment for cancer, and radiation and surgery treatment have their disadvantages because it lacks the target of the drug delivery. This study is directing a great deal of attention to TiO2-NPs that are produced by the methods of green synthesis. These nanoparticles could act as drug transport and carriers and in some cases also as drug replacements for the treatment of cancer. In this study, TiO2-NPs that are non-toxic and also cost-effective were prepared employing the gall plant extract of Quercus infectoria. Green-treated TiO2- NPs were measured on their purity and were pure; the investigations were carried out through UV--Vis- spectrophotometer, and the diffraction of X-ray (XRD). The analysis of specific and targeting the functional groups responsible for TiO2-NPs reduction were performed via spectroscopy of Fourier transform infrared (FTIR). Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was employed to confirm the formation of spherical shapes of TiO2-NPs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The therapeutic potential of Quercus infectoria (QI) gall, including its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anticancer properties, is well-known. However, its impact on lung, gastric, and esophageal cancer cells remain unclear. This study aims to explore the effects of QI gall aqueous extract on cell viability, apoptosis, and gene expression in A549, BGC823, and KYSE-30 cell lines. Methods: A549, BGC823, and KYSE-30 cells were seeded in complete medium and incubated with different concentrations of QI gall extract for 24 hours. Cell viability was measured by an MTT [3-(4, 5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2, 5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide] assay. The induction of apoptosis was assessed through flow cytometric analysis after the adding FITC-conjugated Annexin V (Annexin VFITC) and propidium iodide (PI). The mRNA expression levels of CCND1, TP53, BCL2, and BAX genes were determined using Real-time Quantitative Polymerase Chain Reaction analysis. Results: The MTT assay demonstrated that treatment with QI gall extract significantly reduced the number of viable cells in the A549, BGC823, and KYSE-30 cell lines at IC50 concentrations of 440.1, 437.1, and 465.2 mg/ml, respectively. Additionally, compared to untreated cell population, the percentages of early apoptosis, late apoptosis, and necrosis in the A549, BGC823, and KYSE-30 cells significantly increased following treatment with QI gall extract (P< 0.05). Also, the treatment with QI gall extract influenced the expression of CCND1, TP53, BCL2, and BAX genes. Conclusions: The present findings indicated that the gall extract of QI can inhibit the growth of A549, BGC823, and KYSE-30 cells by inducing apoptosis, which may be mediated via mitochondria-dependent pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and objectives: The Zagros forests vegetation area, with an area of more than 5 million hectares and providing more than 40% of the country's water, is ecologically very important. The forest covers 256,000 hectares of Kurdistan province (8.8% of the province) and makes a significant contribution to carbon sequestration. Atmospheric carbon dioxide has increased significantly in recent decades. In reducing atmospheric carbon dioxide, vegetation and the soil beneath it play a very important role. The aerial parts of trees (the ground layer) contribute greatly to biomass production and carbon sequestration. The purpose of this research was to investigate the carbon sequestration of the tree layer in two sample plots: Garan (Gargh and protected stands) and Dolah Naw (typical forests of the province). Methodology: In order to carry out this research, two samples from Garan and Dolah Naw in Marivan County were selected. In each region, a square sample plot of one hectare was established, and with 100% statistical inventory, quantitative characteristics, including tree species, breast diameter, tree height, crown height, and crown area, were recorded. In both sample plots, the trunks and top branches of the trees were sampled, and for this purpose, three trees were selected for each species in each plot. Samples were taken from the trunk, main branches, and secondary branches of the trees. In the laboratory, the wet weight, dry weight, and carbon percentage of wood samples were calculated by burning the dried samples in an electric furnace. Then, the above-ground biomass of trees was calculated using allometric equations, and finally, the carbon stock of all trees was estimated. The quantitative parameters and the average of the above-ground biomass and carbon stock were compared. An independent t-test was used to compare quantitative parameters and carbon storage in the two sample plots of Garan and Dolah Naw. Results: The findings of the research showed that the amount of biomass on the ground in Dolah Naw and Garan sample plots was 45.3 and 41.4 tons per hectare, respectively. In the Dolah Naw sample plot, two species, Quercus brantii and Q. infectoria, with a total of 24.68 tons per hectare, accounted for 54.5% of the biomass of the tree layer. The carbon stock of the tree layer in Dolah Naw and Garan samples was calculated as 22.4 and 20.3 tons per hectare, respectively, and the results of the independent t-test showed a significant difference between the quantitative characteristics of diameter at breast height, total height, tree crown area, biomass, and carbon storage in the two sample plots. The contribution of the Q. infectoria species to carbon sequestration in Dolah Naw and Garan samples was 6.48 and 9.13 tons per hectare, respectively. On the other hand, the averages of quantitative characteristics, including tree height (3.7 meters), diameter at breast height (15.79 cm), and crown area (6.77 square meters), in the Dolah Naw sample plot were greater than those in the Garan sample plot. Conclusion: The general results showed that the carbon storage of Dolah Naw stands (wood biomass with slightly higher forest characteristics) was greater than that of Garan forest. To optimally manage these forests and increase carbon dioxide storage, it is essential to manage and control the factors of forest destruction (such as the development of agriculture under the forest canopy, intensive grazing, excess livestock capacity, fire management and control, coal mining, and other factors) and take action in degraded areas to promote reforestation and afforestation using native species (Quercus brantii, Quercus infectoria, Quercus libani, and Pistacia atlantica) in the destroyed stands [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims Quercus infectoria (Qi), a traditional herbal plant with a broad spectrum of activities on multidrug-resistant bacteria, has been developed for hand sanitizer applications. Methods and Results Antimicrobial activity was evaluated using agar-well diffusion and broth microdilution method. Bactericidal activity was determined following the European Standard 1276 antibacterial suspension test. Neutralization assay was performed to assess antirespiratory syncytial virus. Safety, stability, and skin permeation of Qi hand gel was investigated. Qi hand sanitizer gel inhibited microorganisms ranging from 99.9% to 99.999% against Enterococcus faecalis, Staphylococcus aureus , methicillin-resistant Staph. aureus, Staph. epidermidis, Staph. pseudintermedius, Staph. saprophyticus, Streptococcus pyogenes, Acinetobacter baumannii, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa , and Candida albicans. A significant reduction in main human dermatophytes including Microsporum canis, M. gypseum , and Talaromyces marneffei of ∼50% was observed (P  < .05). Qi hand sanitizer gel inactivated >99% viral particles entering human laryngeal epidermoid carcinoma cells in a dose-dependent manner. Scanning electron micrographs further illustrated that Qi hand sanitizer gel disrupted microbial cell membrane after 1-min contact time resulting in cell death. Qi hand sanitizer gel delivered emollient compounds through simulated human skin layers and showed no cytotoxicity on fibroblast cells. Moreover, Qi hand sanitizer gel demonstrated stability under extreme conditions. Conclusions Qi hand sanitizer gel was able to inhibit various microorganisms including bacteria, dermatophytes, and virus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Pharmacological properties of Quercus infectoria Olivier (galls) have been determined to be astringent, antidiabetic, antipyretic, anti‐tremor, local anesthetic, and anti‐parkinsonism. The galls of Quercus infectoria have been used for millennia in traditional oriental medicine in Asian nations to treat inflammatory illnesses. Aims: The study's objective was to create a Quercus infectoria Olivier gall extract in stable water in oil (w/o) emulsion and to check its effects on the mechanical properties of skin and antiaging effects. Method: The galls were macerated in absolute methanol. Quercus infectoria Olivier gall extract's antioxidant property was evaluated using the 2, 2‐diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) technique. Stearic acid, cetyl alcohol, KOH, glycerin, and distilled water were used to create the emulsion. The test (with extract) and control (without extract) emulsions were made, respectively, using the same process. Stability tests (color, liquefaction, microscopy, phase separation, and pH) are performed in in vitro, lasted 72 days at four distinct storage temperatures that is 8°C, 25°C, 40°C, and 40°C + 75% RH for both the control and test formulations. By using spectrophotometry, the (SPF) sun protection factors of the two formulations were calculated at various concentrations. Extract from Quercus infectoria underwent phytochemical investigation as well. Results: The results showed that Quercus infectoria Olivier has antioxidant and (SPF) sun protection properties, reduce sebum, increases elasticity and stable emulsion containing 04% Quercus infectoria gall extract which might be used as topical antiaging formulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel biodegradable interpenetrating polymer network hydrogel impregnated with a plant extract was designed using a simple one‐pot free radical polymerization of polyacrylamide (PAM), poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) and gelatin (Gel). PAM/PVA/Gel hydrogels with different Gel contents (Gel‐0–Gel‐40) reached a maximum water absorbency of 1443%, which was approximately three times greater than PAM hydrogel. Biocompatibility assessment of all hydrogels on L929 fibroblast cells demonstrated no toxicity. Gel‐10 hydrogel with a water absorbency of 1120% presented the optimal tensile strength of 363 kPa. The compressive modulus of Gel‐10 hydrogel was 36.2 kPa with the ability to maintain shape under load. Gel‐10 hydrogel demonstrated a good adhesive property on various surfaces including paper, glass, aluminium and skin. A release study revealed a sustained release characteristic which involved Fickian diffusion. A plant extract, Quercus infectoria (Qi), was successfully impregnated as a bioactive agent into Gel‐10 hydrogel and demonstrated a broad spectrum of antibacterial activity against both Gram‐positive and Gram‐negative bacteria. In addition, the Qi‐impregnated hydrogel possesses an excellent radical scavenging activity with 94.6% inhibition and antityrosinase activity with 88.4% inhibition. Studies on biodegradation in soil indicated that the external surfaces of Gel‐10 hydrogel were destroyed. The percentage weight loss of Gel‐10 hydrogel was 66.7%. Additionally, the water absorbency of Gel‐10 after a soil burial test was significantly decreased (421%), compared with 1120% before the test (P < 0.001). Gel‐10 hydrogel could be applied as a bioactive carrier in dermatological cosmetics and pharmaceutical products to prevent infections, deleterious effects from free radicals, and skin pigmentation disorders. © 2023 Society of Industrial Chemistry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Green extraction of supercritical liquid CO2 (SCFE-CO2) using co-solvent methanol can produce a more complete phenolic acid composition and a higher quantity when compared to those without using co-solvent. The extract was devoid of toxicity. SCFE-CO2 is carried out by putting 100 g of Quercus infectoria gall of size 0.3 mm into extraction tube at temperature of 60 °C and the pressure of 20 MPa with a CO2 flow rate of 25 ml/min using co-solvent methanol with variation of flow speed 0.05, 0.5, 1.5, 3, and 6 for 60 min. The extract is analyzed using LC–MS/MS, the total phenolic content is determined using the Folin-Ceocateu method, and the toxicity value is determined using the Vero cell. According to the results, the green method of extracting SCFE-CO2 with methanol co-solvent can produce a peak and identify about 27 phenolic compounds, and increasing the rate of flow of methane co-solvent will greatly affect the outcome of the extraction to a flow rate of 0.5 ml/min, while adding a co-solvent with a flow speed above 0.5 does not affect the result. Repeated extraction of some of the largest phenolic peaks provide phenol content with minimal extract variability (div. sd. 0.1%), and the addition of soluble methanol will also increase the TPC concentration but does not increase the IC50 toxicity value above 1000. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was conducted to examine the impacts of dust on leaf mineral elements and selected physiological responses of three different Oak species in Western Zagros, Iran. Three-year-old seedlings of the Oak species Quercus brantii, Q. libani and Q. infectoria were exposed to dust under natural conditions. Photosynthesis, chlorophyll, proline and selected leaf mineral elements were examined in a two-factorial experiment including species (Q. brantii, Q. libani and Q. infectoria) and dust exposure (dust-exposed and without dust as control). The results showed that dust had a significant effect on photosynthesis rate of all species. Dust decreased photosynthesis rate to about 38%, 13% and 32% for Q. brantii, Q. libani and Q. infectoria, respectively. Dust also had a significant effect on proline and chlorophyll content of Oak leaves. Q. infectoria had the lowest total chlorophyll content with 42%. Among the studied species, Q. libani appears to be most suitable for growing under dust exposure, as this species had the lowest reduction in chlorophyll and photosynthesis. Planting Q. libani on northern slopes in Zagros forests, where Oak forests receive higher precipitation, presumably enhances the success of forest restoration under the combined effects of climate change and dust exposure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

1-Introduction Carbon dioxide emissions caused by human activities, industrial activities and other sources are increasing day by day. The increase of this gas as an important greenhouse gas can cause fundamental changes in global temperature and climate change. Soil respiration is one of the main natural ways of releasing carbon dioxide into the atmosphere in terrestrial ecosystems, and by studying it, one can gain a lot of knowledge about the global carbon cycle. Tree species can influence soil microbial respiration by affecting biogeochemical processes through the amount of litterfall. On the other hand, the different directions of the trees, due to the changes in the radiation angle, which affects the amount of moisture and temperature, probably cause different responses of soil microbial respiration. 2-Methodology In this research, spatial changes of soil microbial respiration by integrating geographical aspects (north, west, east, south) and five different distances (0.5, 1, 1.5, 2 and 2.5 meters) from the tree trunk for the study of soil microbial respiration in three different oak species (Quercus infectoria Oliv., Quercus brantii Lindl. and Quercus libani Oliv.) were carried out in Baneh, Armardeh forests. Three oak trees were selected in the types with the dominant percentage of the desired species (almost identical in terms of height, diameter at breast and canopy). Soil microbial respiration was recorded using Anderson method and moisture in the laboratory and the temperature of the soil were also recorded at the same time sampling at the sample site (soil samples were taken from a depth of 0-10 cm). One-way analysis of variance and Tukey's test were used to check the significance of the difference in the measured characteristics between different oak species. 3-Results: The results showed that there was no significant difference in the parameters of microbial respiration and moisture between the different aspects of each of the different oak species. The results of soil temperature also showed a significant difference in Quercus brantii species between different aspects, and no significant difference was observed in Quercus infectoria and Quercus libani species. On the other hand, there were significant differences between different distances from the trunk. Also, the results of comparing the average soil microbial respiration between different species were not significant, but the results of comparing the average between different oak species at different distances showed differences between the three species. The main environmental factors in this study included soil temperature and soil moisture, which were significantly affected by spatial heterogeneity. The average soil temperature related to Quercus brantii species had a significant difference in different aspects, which could be due to the difference in the intensity of lighting during the day and the aspects of the sunlight and the change of shade over time. There was a difference in soil temperature at different distances in all three species, and this could be due to the low canopy density of the Zagros forests. 4-Discussion & Conclusions Single trees affect the substrates on which they grow and may leave their traces on the soil through the influence of the canopy and roots. The "single-tree influence" concept envisions the soil landscape as a mosaic of small patches that are spatially and genetically linked to individual trees. There are two aspects to this concept: first, within the circle of influence of each tree, soil properties vary predictably in relation to distance from the trunk and crown edge, and second, at any location relative to the trunk and crown, the degree of feature development varies as well. Soil properties are different among tree species. In other words, the organic matter produced by any tree species is different and the related grass cover contains different proportions of nutrients, lignin and secondary metabolites, which determine the quality of organic matter and the rate of decomposition. This study also showed that the spatial heterogeneity in soil temperature and moisture content may be intrinsic mechanisms that drive differences in soil microbial respiration. These findings can deepen our understanding of changes in microbial respiration and soil respiration and clarify the ecological role of different species for us. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Pistacia integerrima (PI) galls, being rich in polyphenolic compounds, owing to its high restorative worth and restricted assets and exorbitant utilization lead to the overexploitation of the species and availability issues. It is expected to categorise under the red list of threatened taxa. Ayurveda text Bhaishajaya Ratnavali mentioned Quercus infectoria (QI) as 'pratinidhi' or substitute of PI and Yogaratnakara (abhavvarga) text reference indicated Terminalia chebula (TC) having the same therapeutic character as in PI. Hence, this study was focused on the comparative quantification of major polyphenolic compounds in aqueous and hydro-alcoholic extracts of PI, QI and TC by liquid chromatography and tandem mass spectroscopy (LC-MS/MS). Objectives: The LC-MS/MS method was used for the determination of polyphenolic compounds in aqueous and hydro-alcoholic extracts of PI, QI and TC. Materials and Methods: The LC-MS/MS method was developed for the quantification of targeted polyphenolic compounds and validated in terms of linearity, accuracy, precision, limit of detection and limit of quantification. Analysis performed by LC-MS/MS 6460 C triple quad coupled with Agilent HPLC. The chromatographic separation was performed on the RP C18 column with gradient elution. Results: The developed method of LC-MS/MS was used for the quantitative estimation of gallic acid, corilagin acid, caffeic acid, syringic acid, rutin hydrate, ellagic acid, quercetin and morin hydrate in PI, QI and TC. As per method validation parameters, calibration plots were found to be linear, accurate, precise and specific for LC-MS/MS. The calibration plot exhibited an excellent coefficient of determination (R2 ≥ 0.99), and extraction recovery was found 96.20%–103.71%. Gallic acid and ellagic acid are the most abundant compound among eight targeted polyphenolics in all extracts. Conclusion: The finding of LC-MS/MS analysis of polyphenolic compounds in aqueous and hydro-alcoholic extracts indicates that PI, QI and TC are having phytochemical similarities up to an extent in polyphenolic compounds as a secondary metabolite; however, a firmer opinion can be formed after a comparative efficacy study and the evaluation of all three extracts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and objectives: Vaginitis is one of the most common diseases in women. Oak gall and ajwain have been used in traditional Persian medicine for treatment of vaginitis. The purpose of this study was to formulate a vaginal preparation containing oak gall and ajwain and evaluate its effectiveness on the recovery and recurrence of vaginitis. Methods: The present pilot study is a randomized, double-blind clinical trial performed on 24 women with mixed vaginitis, including bacterial vaginitis and trichomoniasis in a gynecology center. Subjects were divided into two groups receiving herbal vaginal tablets or metronidazole vaginal tablets for 7 days. The vaginal tablets were prepared using dried extract of oak gall and essential oil from ajwain by direct compression method. Clinical signs and laboratory tests were assessed after treatment. The symptoms were evaluated on day 10, and also 4 and 12 weeks after intervention. Results: There was a statistically significant difference in sexual function, and characteristics of secretions including amount, pH, odor, leukocyte count and parasite content in both groups of herbal (oak gall and ajwain) and metronidazole vaginal tablets before and after treatment (p

A simple and rapid high‐performance thin‐layer chromatographic method for quantification of gallic acid and ellagic acid in dried fruits of Terminalia chebula, Phyllanthus emblica, and Quercus infectoria has been developed. The chromatographic development was carried out on precoated silica gel 60 F254 plates in a mixture of toluene:ethyl acetate:chloroform:formic acid (4:8:1:3 v/v/v/v). The plate was scanned densitometrically at a wavelength of 280 nm. The retention factor value of gallic acid and ellagic acid was found to be 0.63 ± 0.2 and 0.53 ± 0.1, respectively. The developed method was validated in terms of linearity, precision, accuracy, sensitivity, robustness, specificity and stability as per the international conference of harmonization guidelines. The method showed good linear relationship over a range of 100–600 ng/band (gallic acid) and 100–500 ng/band (ellagic acid) with a regression coefficient (r2) of 0.997 (gallic acid) and 0.996 (ellagic acid). The method showed high accuracy (99.65%–100.85%). The percentage relative standard deviation of intra‐day and inter‐day precision studies was not more than 2%. The method is highly robust and has displayed high specificity. The developed method is new, simple, and accurate and can be successfully employed in routine analysis of raw materials and formulations containing gallic acid and ellagic acid. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tunable optical and electronic properties of the fluorescent carbon dots have drawn significant research interests over the years mainly owing to their sensing and photocatalytic applications. In this work, highly fluorescent nitrogen doped carbon dots [N−CDs] have been synthesised from Quercus infectoria via hydrothermal treatment. The structural, optical properties and the surface functionalities of the synthesised N−CDs are analysed with the help of various analytical techniques. The spherical shaped N−CDs exhibit an average particle size of 5 nm. Dual turn‐on‐off fluorescent sensors have been developed to sense Fe(III) and cysteine with detection limit of 1.88×10−8 M and 7.8×10−5 M respectively. The synthesised N−CDs exhibited excellent sensitivity in the in vitro detection of Fe(III) in ferric citrate supplements with a detection limit of 1.43×10−7 M. Interaction between ct‐DNA and N−CDs with a binding constant of 1.32 (mg/mL)−1 indicates its potency in designing drugs. The fluorescent nature of the N−CDs envisions its application to image SKMEL cells and L6 cells. This work may be extended for the use of N−CDs for diverse applications including in vivo sensing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans (Aa) plays a vital role in some destructive forms of periodontitis. While mechanical and chemical plaque control is the first step in periodontitis treatment, side effects of adjunctive chemical agents such as chlorhexidine (CHX) mouthwash have led to the application of natural alternatives with minimal side effects. Therefore, this study evaluated the antibacterial effect of the hydroalcoholic extract of Quercus infectoria (Qi) galls on Aa in vitro. Methods. The hydroalcoholic extract of Qi was obtained by the maceration method, and Aa bacterial strain was cultured. The inhibition zone diameter was measured through the agar well diffusion method. Also, the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) values were determined by the broth microdilution method. All the experiments were repeated three times. 0.2% CHX was used as a control. Results. The inhibition zone diameter of Aa increased with increasing concentration of Qi extract. While MIC and MBC values for CHX were 0.0039 and 0.0078 mg/mL, respectively, both MIC and MBC values of the Qi extract for this bacterium were similar, i.e., 2.5 mg/mL, which was significantly higherd. Conclusion. Since other in vivo studies have confirmed the other properties of this extract and its safety in terms of cytotoxicity and mutagenicity, hydroalcoholic extract of Qi may be used in mouthwashes or local delivery systems to affect periodontal biofilm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We would like to report the eco-friendly synthesis of reduced graphene oxide using aqueous extract of Acorus calamus (rhizome), dried fruit and seed parts of Terminalia bellirica, Helicteres isora and Quercus infectoria and the whole shell part of Turbinella pyrum by simple steam bath technique. The structural and morphological characteristics of prepared reduced graphene oxides were determined by UV–Visible spectroscopy, Fourier Transform Infra-Red spectroscopy (FTIR), Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FESEM) and Raman spectroscopy. The Surface Plasmon Resonance at 260–280 nm ensured the reduced graphene oxide formation. The antibacterial efficacy of synthesized reduced graphene oxide was evaluated against both gram-positive and gram-negative pathogens such as Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus subtilis, Salmonella paratyphi and Escherichia coli. Among the selected samples Quercus infectoria mediated reduced graphene oxide showed excellent inhibition efficiency (27 and 28 mm) against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus, respectively as compared to the standard Gentamycin (29 mm). Quercus infectoria showed significant inhibition of 22 mm and moderate inhibition of 18 mm against Bacillus subtilis and Salmonella paratyphi, respectively. The results suggest selected plants and chank shell-mediated reduced graphene oxide as potential antibacterial agents for various therapeutic applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aim: Insulin resistance is a pathological condition in which cells fail to respond normally to insulin. The most important cause of insulin resistance is abdominal obesity. Increased abdominal fat increases the amount of free fatty acids and decreases adiponectin, which directly affects insulin signaling. Due to the role of Quercus infectoria in lowering blood sugar, we investigated the mechanism of action and the effect of its aqueous extract on insulin resistance in insulin-resistant Rats. Materials and Methods: The animals were fed fructose-rich or normal food for six weeks. At the end of six weeks, the animals were divided into 4 groups including receiving plant extracts, pioglitazone, control, and normal food, and then treated for 2 weeks. At the end of the treatment period serum Glucose, triglyceride, and cholesterol levels were measured by autoanalyzer; Insulin and adiponectin levels were measured by ELISA; plasma free fatty acids were measured by gas chromatography, and HOMA-IR (Homeostatic Model Assessment for Insulin Resistance) index was calculated by the formula. A one-way ANOVA test was used for statistical analysis. Results: In the Quercus infectoria group, the concentrations of glucose (129.3±6.8 mg/dl), triglyceride (79.8±5.1mg/dl), insulin (31.2±6.32pmol/L) and HOMA-IR (1.6±0.32) significantly decreased compared to the control group with glucose (187.5± 15.9 mg/dl), Triglyceride (217.6±18.5 mg/dl), Insulin (137.6±34.2 pmol/L) and HOMA-IR (9.7±2.13) decreased. The concentration of total free fatty acids and adiponectin did not change. Conclusion: This study showed the beneficial effects of aqueous extracts of Quercus infectoria on reducing insulin resistance in insulin-resistant rats.

Summary: In order to eliminate disadvantages of conventional capacitors and batteries, supercapacitors have become very popular lately. Carbon‐based biomass materials show great promise as supercapacitor electrode materials due to their high stability, good electronic conductivity, and porous structure. In this study, Quercus infectoria (Qui) biomass was converted to activated carbon for the first time using carbonization and different acid–base activations. Three supercapacitor cells with two‐electrode system were designed using these activated carbons. As a result of activation with KOH, the capacitance values increased 3‐fold for 1 A/g, and a high capacitance value of 89 F/g was obtained, thanks to the increasing of pore volume and the expansion of the surface area. After 110 cycles, the Qui‐KOH electrode still maintained 92.1% of its capacitance value. Qui‐KOH had a maximum energy density of 8.46 Wh/kg at a power density of 407.64 W/kg, much higher than the energy density of other electrodes. An increase in coulombic efficiency was observed after 110 cycles of all electrodes, and for the Qui‐KOH, it rised to 92.77%. The developed electrodes offer new potential in the field of energy storage since they are inexpensive, ecologically friendly, efficient, high‐capacity, and stable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Depression is the second leading psychiatric disorder where 21 % of the world population suffers from this disease. The age range is markedly decreasing from 40-50 years age range to 25-35 years age range which observed worldwide. In last few decades, several drugs have been discovered to treat depression such as tricyclic antidepressants, monoamine oxidase inhibitors and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRI). But unfortunately, all of the drugs have serious side effects including insomnia, anxiety, weight gain etc. It is well known that nature is the best and safe source for all medicine. So it becomes worth to search for a new antidepressant drug from natural source with less side effects (It is assume that a drug from natural source could have less side effects) and complications. However, the neuropharmacological activity of Quercus infectoria plant is not investigated extensively which influenced us to design our study. The aim of study is to screen the effect of selected plant on these transmitters in stress induced depression in mice. This herb is well established for other activity but the effect of that herb on CNS transmitters is not known, so the study will identify the effect of plant leaves on these parameters due to a pharmacologically active flavonoid compound. The present study investigated the antidepressant-like effect of MEBM in different behavioral model of depression in mice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aim: In a scenario of the ineffectiveness of the current drugs against antibiotic-resistant pathogens, the herbal extracts can serve as an alternative remedy. This study appraises the antibacterial potency of Quercus infectoria (gall), Phyllanthus emblica (fruit) individually and synergistically against antimicrobial-resistant (AMR) Salmonella Typhi and Salmonella Enteritidis in a time and dose-dependent manner. Further, the antibacterial phytocompounds were identified employing gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Materials and Methods: Preliminary antibacterial activity of the plant extracts was assessed using the agar disk diffusion method. In vitro evaluations of Q. infectoria methanolic extract (QIME) and P. emblica methanolic extract (PEME) against S. Typhi and S. Enteritidis were carried out using plate count method. Results: QIME and PEME at a dose rate of 50 mg/ml and 25 mg/ml, respectively, had a complete bactericidal effect on AMR S. Typhi and S. Enteritidis whereas 10 log10 CFU/ml of exponential growth was seen in untreated control groups. At the lower concentrations, QIME and PEME had a significant bacteriostatic effect (3-6 log10 reduction of the test isolates). The synergistic antibacterial effect obtained from the combination of these two plant extracts at 12.5 mg/ml was superior (p

Abstract Quercus infectoria (Fagaceae family) is traditionally used for treatment of vaginal discharge, prolapse, laxity, and many other female genital disorders. Two important parts of plant including oak fruit hulls (Jaft-E-Baloot) and oak galls (Mazo) are recommended to use for female genital disorders, although, they have many other medicinal applications on skin, urinary and respiratory tract. Tannins as the main ingredients of this genus are the main characteristic for their medicinal properties. Therefore, the aim of this review article was chosen in order to increase the information on Jaft-E-Baloot or Mazo in management of female genital disorders. For preparing the manuscript, the information was gathered from electronics resources (PubMed, Science Direct, Wiley, Magiran, and Springer), books, thesis, etc. up to Feb 2020. Our results exhibited that Jaft-E-Baloot is the thin inner woody hulls of oak fruits, while Mazo is produced in reaction of plant to insect bite. Mazo is a popular compound in different traditional medicines, while Jaft-E-Baloot is known only in Iran. There is any investigation on these two parts in European countries. In Traditional medicine, the same applications are for these two parts especially for female genital disorders, while the majority of modern investigations are on the efficacy of Mazo on cancer, vaginal infections, cervicitis, utero-vaginal prolapse, and there is one clinical study for Jaft-E-Baloot on vaginal laxity. The safety doses of two parts are high and due to their good potency in management of female genital disorders especially vulvovaginitis, they can be the subject of further clinical studies.

Quercus infectoria galls have been utilized to cure widespread illnesses. In line with it, this paper aims to investigate the chemical combination of the volatile oils obtained from galls of Q. infectoria and evaluate their antioxidant and antimicrobial features. The volatiles of Q. infectoria has been isolated by solid-phase microextraction (SPME). The compositions of the volatiles were revealed via gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Twenty-nine substances have been characterized in the volatile essential oil of Q. infectoria. The major components of the volatile oil were (Z)-Anethol 28.55%, pentadecanolide (26.44%), diethyl phthalate (6.46%), and acetoin (5.66%). Q. infectoria showed good-moderate antimicrobial (Staphylococcus aureus, Streptomyces griseolus, Pseudomonas citronellosis) and antifungal (Candida glabrata, Candida krusei) activities against to test microorganisms with MIC value 250 µg/mL and 125 µg/mL, respectively. Also, total flavonoid and total polyphenol amounts were found for Q. infectoria, and our total polyphenol result (342.87 mg GAE/g) was found higher than the studies in the literature. At the same time Q. infectoria has been observed to have high antioxidant activity according to DPPH, FRAP, and CUPRAC assays. Especially it exhibited excellent DPPH activity for the IC50 rate of 0.002 μg/mL which is higher than the standard Trolox (IC50 = 0.008 μg/mL). This study is important because it is the first one, which reports the determination of essential oil, total polyphenol, flavonoid contents, antioxidant, and antimicrobial activities all together for Q. infectoria.

Improper self-treatment of vaginal discharge may result in various complications to the patient. We reported a case of a 24-year-old single and nulliparous lady with an oak gall stick lodged in her vagina during an attempt to treat her own vaginal discharge. During an examination under anaesthesia (EUA), her hymen was noted to be torn and a foreign body was identified and removed out from her vagina. Her upper vaginal swab cultures were negative for any pathogen. We concluded that this was a case of intravaginal foreign body complicated with vaginal injury secondary to self-medication for vaginal discharge by using a herbal stick. Hence, the public should be educated to seek proper medical treatment rather than performing self-treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Quercus infectoria galls have been utilized to cure widespread illnesses. In line with it, this paper aims to investigate the chemical combination of the volatile oils obtained from galls of Q. infectoria and evaluate their antioxidant and antimicrobial features. The volatiles of Q. infectoria has been isolated by solid-phase microextraction (SPME). The compositions of the volatiles were revealed via gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Twenty-nine substances have been characterized in the volatile essential oil of Q. infectoria. The major components of the volatile oil were (Z)-Anethol 28.55%, pentadecanolide (26.44%), diethyl phthalate (6.46%), and acetoin (5.66%). Q. infectoria showed good-moderate antimicrobial (Staphylococcus aureus, Streptomyces griseolus, Pseudomonas citronellosis) and antifungal (Candida glabrata, Candida krusei) activities against to test microorganisms with MIC value 250 µg/mL and 125 µg/mL, respectively. Also, total flavonoid and total polyphenol amounts were found for Q. infectoria, and our total polyphenol result (342.87 mg GAE/g) was found higher than the studies in the literature. At the same time Q. infectoria has been observed to have high antioxidant activity according to DPPH, FRAP, and CUPRAC assays. Especially it exhibited excellent DPPH activity for the IC50 rate of 0.002 µg/mL which is higher than the standard Trolox (IC50 = 0.008 µg/mL). This study is important because it is the first one, which reports the determination of essential oil, total polyphenol, flavonoid contents, antioxidant, and antimicrobial activities all together for Q. infectoria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Multidrug resistance pathogens are important heath challenges. In this study, the antibacterial activity of 20 plant extracts was tested against standard as well as 20 multidrug-resistant (MDR) strains of Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Escherichia coli. The most active plant extract (Quercus infectoria) was selected for the synergistic activity assay. Methods: Plant extracts were prepared by maceration using water, methanol and ethanol. The antibacterial activity of extracts was determined by both broth and agar dilution methods. The synergistic activity of QIG with ceftazidime (CAZ) was evaluated by checker board assay. Antioxidant activity was determined by colorimetric Ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) assay. Results: Only the methanol extract of QIG inhibited the growth of all the bacterial strains at a concentration of 1000 µg/mL. Other active extracts were Myrtus communis and Eucalyptus globulus inhibiting the growth of most bacterial strains tested at 2000 µg/ mL. In checker board assay, the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) to both QIG extract and CAZ was reduced. The MIC of CAZ was reduced from 64-4096 µg/mL to 4 µg/mL for P. aeruginosa and to 16 µg/mL for E. coli isolates. Conclusion: The QIG extract exhibited potent antioxidant activity determined by FRAP assay. The result of this study showed a strong synergistic activity between QIC and CAZ on P. aeruginosa and E. coli. The activity within ethyl acetate-methanol (7:3) fraction indicates that the active components of the plant have a semi-polar nature and further work with this fraction may lead to understanding the mechanism of this synergistic activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One hundred twelve urine samples were collected from Baghdad hospitals and examined by different identification techniques. Seventy isolates (62.5%) were diagnosed as Escherichia coli after microscopic and cultural identifications. The result of PCR product electrophoresis on the isolates showed that thirteen isolates (18.57%) have Pap E gene which are uropathogenic E. coli. Antibiotic susceptibility test was done, and four high resistant strains were mixed with aqueous extract of Quercus infectoria plant in 96 well ELISA plate and incubated for different times. After 0, 6, and 12 hr. of incubation, the effect of the plant extract on the bacterial growth was determined by ELISA reader, and the effect on the expression of Pap E gene was examined by real-time PCR. The results were showed that the higher effect of the extract was on the E10 strain growth that dropped from 3.184 at zero time of incubation to 2.378 and 2.281 after 6, and 12 hrs. of incubation respectively. Also, shown a downregulation in the expression of Pap E gene of the isolates at different times of incubation. The E10 strain shows decrease in the fold from 1 before the treatment with the extract to 0.076 at zero time of incubation with the extract, after 6 and 12 hrs. of incubation it shows a total down-regulation of the gene. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One of the major public health problems is drug resistance in parasitic diseases. It is therefore important to find new active ingredients to combat parasites. Herbal products such as essential oils (EOs) may show promise in treating infections caused by gastrointestinal nematodes (GINs). This study investigated the in vitro anthelmintic activity of the EOs of Lavandula angustifolia and Quercus infectoria against Marshallagia marshalli. The in vitro study was based on an egg hatch test (EHT), adult and larval motility inhibition tests, DNA damage, and several biomarkers of oxidative/nitrosative stress, including superoxide dismutase [SOD], catalase [CAT], and glutathione peroxidase [GSH -Px], protein carbonylation [PCO], malondialdehyde [MDA], total antioxidant status [TAS], and nitric oxide levels [NO]. Different concentrations of Lavandula angustifolia and Quercus infectoria EOs (1, 5, 10, 25 and 50 mg/ml) were used to determine the anthelmintic effect on three stages of the life cycle of M. marshalli , i.e. eggs, larvae and adult parasites, for 24 hr. The results showed that EOs of L. angustifolia and Q. infectoria play an important role as anthelmintics. These essential oils significantly reduced the egg hatching and motility of larval and adult worms. This anthelmintic effect is dependent on concentration and time. Furthermore, the EOs of L. angustifolia and Q. infectoria caused oxidative/nitrosative stress (reduced SOD, GSH-Px and CAT and increased MDA, PCO and NO) and DNA damage, thereby providing significant antihelminthic effects. Based on the results, it seems that the EOs extracted from L. angustifolia and Q. infectoria may be effective in the control and treatment of M. marshalli infections. Further research is needed to investigate their potential for in vivo use in the treatment of parasitic infections. [Display omitted] • Lavandula angustifolia and Quercus infectoria EOs have anthelminthics effects. • The anthelminthics effect of these EOs was dependent on time and concentration. • These EOs induce oxidative/nitrosative stress in Marshallagia marshalli. • These EOs increased DNA damage, inhibited the motility, and reduced egg hatching. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Quercus gall extracts’ ability to kill pathogens in vitro and even removal of chronic drug-resistant infections has been reported by several studies. The current investigation is focused on the action of extracts of Quercus infectoria gall in their sub-inhibitory concentrations on the corresponding bacterial behaviours instead of killing them. Methods The effect of gall extracts on the quorum sensing (QS) associated virulence of multiple drug resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa recovered from burns wounds was studied. The influence of different extracts on the production of bacterial virulence and biofilm, and expression of the genes encoding quorum sensing and exotoxin A were investigated. Quorum sensing is a crucial regulator of virulence and biofilm development in Pseudomonas aeruginosa and other medical related microbes. Results Experiments to characterise and quantify Q. infectoria gall extracts impact on the quorum sensing networks of P.aeruginosa revealed that the expression of las, rhl, and exotoxin A (ETA) genes levels including the associated virulence were reduced by the extracts at their subinhibitory concentrations. Conclusions The obtained results indicated that extracts of Q. infectoria galls fight infections either by their inhibitory constituents, which vigorously eradicate cells or by disruption of the pathogens quorum sensing system through weakening the virulence and bacterial coordination.

Objectives: Our study reports the immunomodulatory potency of Quercus infectoria gall extract in vitro. The aqueous extract was prepared and examined for its effects on cell proliferation, phagocytic activity, nitric oxide (NO) production, and cytokine synthesis by murine macrophages. Methods: Proliferative, phagocytic activity, and NO production of extract-treated and control cells were studied using proliferative assay, flow cytometry, and Griess reaction, respectively. An enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay was performed to determine the levels of pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines in the macrophage culture. Results: Treated macrophages had a higher proliferative rate and phagocytic activity compared to untreated macrophages. The cell treatment with an extract concentration of 64 μg/mL demonstrated a significant decrease in NO production (p < 0.001). An increase in cytokine levels (IL-2, IL-5, IL-10, IL-17A, IL-23, TGF-β1) was observed; however, this increase was not statistically significant. Conclusions: Our study suggests that gall extract possesses the potential for augmenting immunomodulatory activity by cellular mediated mechanism and could play a role in regulating the innate immune response.

Aims: The effect of Quercus infectoria (QI) gall extract on the fungal expression of antioxidant defense enzymes of Candida albicans was studied in an effort to unravel its anti-fungal mechanism. Methodology and results: Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC), minimum fungicidal concentration (MFC), and time kill assays were conducted to analyse the antifungal activity of the extract against C. albicans. Total protein profiles of C. albicans were determined by SDS-PAGE and real-time PCR was used to quantify the genes expression level of superoxide dismutase (SOD1), catalase (CAT1) and glutathione peroxidase (GPX3) following treatment with aqueous QI gall extract. The MIC and MFC values of the extract against C. albicans were 8 mg/mL and 16 mg/mL respectively. Fungistatic and fungicidal activities of the extract were observed after 24 h at 1× MIC and 2× MIC from the time-kill assay. A lower total protein bands density of extract-treated C. albicans was visualized when compared to the untreated cells at concentrations of 1× MIC and 2× MIC. A significant reduction in the expression of GPX3 (p <0.05) was observed following 2 h treatment of extract at 1× MIC and 2× MIC though it did not significantly affect those of SOD1 and CAT1 (p >0.05). Conclusion, significance and impact of study: In conclusion, QI gall extract exerted an anti-Candida activity and it is apparently effective in downregulating the gene expression of GPX3 in C. albicans. Of note, the present findings elucidated a preliminary mechanism associated with the organism's survival resilience which represents a key target for the development of anti-Candida agents in future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A complex mixture of phenolic acid glycosides, Quercus infectoria galls (QI) produces 50-70 percent tannin concentration, mainly gallotannic acid. Traditionally, QI for neurological and anti-oxidant activity has been claimed. The purpose of this research is to use reversible and permanent models of amnesia to determine the nootropic function of Quercus infectoria (galls) in albino mice. To research anti-amnesic behavior in reversible and tannin-rich ethylacetate fraction, hydroalcoholic extract and tannin-rich ethylacetate fraction were used. Amnesic induction in the reversible and irreversible model caused by transcranial application of Lignocaine 2 percent gel and Scopolamine 0.4 mg/kg intraperitoneal route respectively. HEQI 400mg/kg and 200 mg/kg and EAF 100 mg/kg medication were administered for 8 days and behavioral parameters were measured. The same animals were used for an irreversible model after a 30-day washout cycle. Latency transition (Elevated plus maze), Test of Object Recognition (Y-maze), Escape latency (Morris water maze), Step down latency (studied passive avoidance test). QI extract ethyl acetate fraction (EAF) showed powerful antiamnesic effect through behavioral parameters as well as enzyme inhibitory effect in both amnesia models. Therefore, the extract of Quercus infectoria galls may be useful in the treatment of amnesia associated with Alzheimer's disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Quercus infectoria galls (QI) extracts were previously reported to have cytotoxicity effects towards human cervical cancer cells, HeLa. However, the underlying molecular mechanisms of the extracts have been poorly determined. Objective: The present study was undertaken to examine the effect of ethyl acetate extracts of QI (EAQI) on cell cytotoxicity and induction of apoptosis in HeLa cells. Materials and Method: The in vitro cytotoxicity was investigated by using the MTT [3-(4, 5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2, 5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide] assay and the OD values were read at 570 nm. Meanwhile the induction of apoptosis was measured by using acridine orange and propidium iodide (AO/PI) staining, flow cytometry analysis of annexin V/PI staining and cell cycle distribution. Results: MTT assay showed that EAQI exhibited cytotoxicity effect on HeLa cells with IC50 of 11.50 ± 0.50 µg/ml. HeLa cells underwent apoptosis in response to EAQI treatment, demonstrated by an increase in the percentage of apoptotic cell stained with AOPI from 1.00% to 10.33% compared to untreated cell population (p<0.05) at 72 hours of treatment. The evidence of early apoptosis in treated cells were also observed in annexin V/PI staining. Furthermore, an increase of cell population in sub G0/G1 phase revealed that apoptosis as the mode of cell death in HeLa cells treated with EAQI. Conclusion: These findings indicated that EAQI significantly inhibits HeLa cell growth through induction of apoptosis. Further studies are needed to confirm the mechanism of cell death by expression of apoptotic cascade in HeLa cells treated with EAQI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aim: In traditional medicine and previous studies, Quercus infectoria plants have been suggested as a cancer treatment. The aim of the current study was to investigate the cytotoxic effect of aqueous and hydro alcoholic extracts of Quercus infectoria leaf against colon cancer HT29 cell line and to evaluate the Bax and Bcl-2 gene expression in treated cells. Materials and Methods: In this study, aqueoFus and hydro alcoholic extracts of Quercus infectoria leaf were prepared. Then, the HT29 and HEK293 cell lines were treated by various concentrations of extracts for 24 hours and the cytotoxicity effect of extracts was estimated by colorimetric MTT (methyl thiazolyl tetrazolium) assay. Finally, the pro-apoptotic Bax and anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 gene expression in treated cells compared to GAPDH reference gene expression was evaluated using real time PCR technique. Findings: According to the MTT results, the cytotoxic activity of aqueous extract has dose-dependent manner against both cell lines, therefore, the Bax and Bcl-2 gene expression levels in treated cells by aqueous extract were changed 2.8 (p˂0.05) and 2.2-fold (p˃0.05) compared to reference gene, respectively. Conclusion: According to the results, it seems that the aqueous extract of Quercus infectoria leaf has the potential for apoptosis induction in colon cancer HT29 cell line and based on more studies, it can be used as a colon cancer treatment.

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Background: The spread of Plasmodium falciparum resistance in common antimalarial drugs, including artemisinin-based combination therapies, has necessitated the discovery of new drugs with novel mechanisms of action. In the present study, the in vitro antimalarial and toxicological activities of acetone, methanol, ethanol and aqueous extracts of Quercus infectoria (Q. infectoria) galls were investigated. Methods: The extracts were assessed for the antimalarial potential using a malarial SYBR Green I fluorescence-based (MSF) assay, while the toxicity was screened by using brine shrimp lethality test (BSLT), haemolytic assay, and cytotoxicity assay against normal embryo fibroblast cell line (NIH/3T3) and normal kidney epithelial cell line (Vero). Results: The acetone extract showed the highest antimalarial activity (50% inhibitory concentration, IC50 = 5.85 ± 1.64 μg/mL), followed by the methanol extract (IC50 = 10.31 ± 1.90 μg/mL). Meanwhile, the ethanol and aqueous extracts displayed low antimalarial activity with IC50 values of 20.00 ± 1.57 and 30.95 μg/mL ± 1.27 μg/mL, respectively. The significant antimalarial activity was demonstrated in all extracts and artemisinin (P < 0.05). All extracts were non-toxic to brine shrimps (50% lethality concentration, LC50 > 1000 ppm). Furthermore, no occurrence of haemolysis (< 5%) was observed in normal erythrocytes when treated with all extracts compared to Triton X-100 that caused 100% haemolysis (P < 0.05). The acetone and methanol extracts were non-toxic to the normal cell lines and statistically significant to artemisinin (P < 0.05). Conclusion: Taken together with satisfactory selectivity index (SI) values, the acetone and methanol extracts of Q. infectoria galls could serve as an alternative, promising and safe antimalarial agents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Quercus infectoria (Fagaceae family) is traditionally used for treatment of vaginal discharge, prolapse, laxity, and many other female genital disorders. Two important parts of plant including oak fruit hulls (Jaft-E-Baloot) and oak galls (Mazo) are recommended to use for female genital disorders, although, they have many other medicinal applications on skin, urinary and respiratory tract. Tannins as the main ingredients of this genus are the main characteristic for their medicinal properties. Therefore, the aim of this review article was chosen in order to increase the information on Jaft-E-Baloot or Mazo in management of female genital disorders. For preparing the manuscript, the information was gathered from electronics resources (PubMed, Science Direct, Wiley, Magiran, and Springer), books, thesis, etc. up to Feb 2020. Our results exhibited that Jaft-E-Baloot is the thin inner woody hulls of oak fruits, while Mazo is produced in reaction of plant to insect bite. Mazo is a popular compound in different traditional medicines, while Jaft-E-Baloot is known only in Iran. There is any investigation on these two parts in European countries. In Traditional medicine, the same applications are for these two parts especially for female genital disorders, while the majority of modern investigations are on the efficacy of Mazo on cancer, vaginal infections, cervicitis, utero-vaginal prolapse, and there is one clinical study for Jaft-E-Baloot on vaginal laxity. The safety doses of two parts are high and due to their good potency in management of female genital disorders especially vulvovaginitis, they can be the subject of further clinical studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aim: In a scenario of the ineffectiveness of the current drugs against antibiotic-resistant pathogens, the herbal extracts can serve as an alternative remedy. This study appraises the antibacterial potency of Quercus infectoria (gall), Phyllanthus emblica (fruit) individually and synergistically against antimicrobial-resistant (AMR) Salmonella Typhi and Salmonella Enteritidis in a time and dose-dependent manner. Further, the antibacterial phytocompounds were identified employing gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Materials and Methods: Preliminary antibacterial activity of the plant extracts was assessed using the agar disk diffusion method. In vitro evaluations of Q. infectoria methanolic extract (QIME) and P. emblica methanolic extract (PEME) against S. Typhi and S. Enteritidis were carried out using plate count method. Results: QIME and PEME at a dose rate of 50 mg/ml and 25 mg/ml, respectively, had a complete bactericidal effect on AMR S. Typhi and S. Enteritidis whereas 10 log10 CFU/ml of exponential growth was seen in untreated control groups. At the lower concentrations, QIME and PEME had a significant bacteriostatic effect (3-6 log10 reduction of the test isolates). The synergistic antibacterial effect obtained from the combination of these two plant extracts at 12.5 mg/ml was superior (p<0.001) than the individual treatments. Phytochemical profiling indicated the presence of tannins, flavonoids, saponins, and terpenoids in both the plant extracts. GC-MS analysis of QIME and PEME revealed the presence of 16 and 15 antibacterial phytocompounds, respectively. Further 1, 2, 3 Benzenetriol was found as the prominent active principle. Conclusion: The findings validate that QIME and PEME are potential antibacterial agents against AMR S. Typhi, S. Enteritidis and can play a promising role in antimicrobial packaging, poultry feed additives and can also serve as a platform for formulating effective phytotherapeutics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the study demonstrates flavonoids of Quercus infectoria as anti-hyperlipidemia. 20 adult male rats used and divided to four equal groups (each group consist 5 rats); rats received ad libidium, rats were given normal water containing 0.5% of hydrogen peroxide and 1% of cholesterol in the feed for 60 days for induction of hyperlipidemia. Hyperlipidemia rats treated with (50mg/kg/daily) flavonoids, fourth Hyperlipidemia rats treated with (100mg/kg/daily) flavonoids. The results show non-significant changes (P < 0.05) in levels of HMG-raductase compare with control group. in hyperlipidemia rats, levels of malonedialdehyied (MDA) show significant increase (P < 0.05) in and significant decrease (P < 0.05) in levels of glutathione (GSH) and catalase compare with control group. While, after using flavonoids extract in treatment, the results showed non-significant changes (P < 0.05) in HMG-raductase, MDA, GSH and catalase compare with control group. It was concluded that flavonoids extract of Q. infectoria extract has been a protective effect in rats with hyperlipidemia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context: One of the most complained skin cares in ethnic skin like Asian women is hyperpigmentation, and lightening preparations have been long-standing desired. Due to the side effects of current drugs, medicinal plants have attracted more attentions as a source of novel drugs. Mazo (Quercus infectoria galls) and Terminalia chebula fruits have been suggested in Persian Traditional Medicine as a safe treatment for hyperpigmentation. Aims: To evaluate the cytotoxicity and the effect on melanin synthesis in B16/F10 melanoma of Q. infectoria and T. chebula extracts. Methods: After collection and scientific authentication, plants were extracted by maceration method with methanol and were standardized based on total phenolic content. MTT assay and colorimetric method were used for cytotoxicity and determination of melanin content and tyrosinase activity in B16/F10 cells, respectively. Kojic acid was used as a reference compound. Results: Total phenolic content of Q. infectoria and T. chebula was determined as 287.34 ± 4.21 and 172.61 ± 8.67 mg gallic acid equivalent/g dried extract, respectively. Both plants decreased cell viability at 100 µg/mL and significantly reduced intercellular melanin to 66.25% and 71.1%, respectively in comparison to kojic acid (56.63%) at 50 µg/mL. In the same concentration, 65.7% and 71.2% tyrosinase activity was inhibited by Q. infectoria and T. chebula, which significantly were different from control (p

Introduction: Gout is a chronic metabolic disease in which xanthine oxidase plays a crucial role. Many natural compounds such as various flavonoids have been reported to have inhibitory effect on xanthine oxidase. In this study we aimed to screen hydromethanol extracts of various plants for their anti-xanthine oxidase activity to find safer and cheaper medicines in prevention and control of related diseases. Methods: The xanthine oxidase activity was measured by spectrophotometric method at 290 nm. Kinetic study of the enzyme was performed in presence and absence of the extracts. Results: Among sixty hydromathanolic (70% methanol) extracts, Quercus infectoria and Mentha longifolia showed more than 70% inhibitory effect on xanthine oxidase. M. longifolia showed competitive inhibition and Q. infectoria showed non-competitive inhibition by double-reciprocal Lineweaver-Burk plot analysis. The Km value of xanthine for xanthine oxidase was 1.81 mM and Vmax value was 2.01 mM min-1. Conclusion: The data suggest that these plants might be good candidates for treatment of gout disease.

The oak leaf-roller moth (Tortrix viridana L.) damages the Zagros forests greatly by feeding upon leaves and sprouts of different species. The current study was carried out in 2015 in order to investigate the influence of cardinal directions on quantity features of oak tree and on the demographic changes of oak leaf-roller moth in Ghabr-e-Hosein area (Piranshahr) located in oak forests of west Azerbayjan. In every main geographical directions 30 gall oak trees (Quercus infectoria) and 30 Lebanon Oak trees (Q. libani) was measured using transect method and the pest larvae were counted from the branch tip inward and also quantity features of the host trees were recorded. Results showed that the maximum crown diameter was on the east while the minimum was on the south and north. The highest and lowest diameters at breast height (DBHs) were on the south and north, respectively. In addition, results showed significant differences (p < 0.05) between density of larvae on Q. infectoria and Q. libani. There is also significant differences between mean amounts of oak leaf-roller moth in different geographical directions. Tukey test (HSD) showed that for both of tree species the maximum and the minimum number of larvae were in the east and the west, respectively and the highest larval accumulation of the pest was on the eastern part of the tree crown. The obtained results are indicative of the fact that larvae of the leaf-roller moths’ distribution orientation can also be influenced by the direction of wind blows.

We tested the suitability of Landsat images to track defoliation by insect herbivory with focus on the oak leaf roller, Tortrix viridana (Lep.: Tortricidae). Landsat images from the period before (2002) and after the T. viridana infestation (2007, 2014) were compared in oak forests of Zagros in western Iran. The Normalised Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) was calculated for the test area from Landsat 5, 7, and 8 images. Because the red and near-infrared spectral bands of Landsat 8 OLI sensors are different from the other two, a model for the calibration of Landsat OLI NDVI was developed. The proposed model with a correlation coefficient of 0.928 and root mean square error of 0.05 turned out to be applicable and the NDVI decreased significantly during the observation period. Taking into account the protection status of the area and small fluctuations in temperature, the decrease in NDVI could be attributed to T. viridana damage.

Parasitic diseases represent one of the causes for significant global economic, environmental and public health impacts. The efficacy of currently available anti-parasitic drugs has been threatened by the emergence of single drug- or multidrug-resistant parasite populations, vector threats and high cost of drug development. Therefore, the discovery of more potent anti-parasitic drugs coming from medicinal plants such as Quercus infectoria is seen as a major approach to tackle the problem. A systematic review was conducted to assess the efficacy of Q. infectoria in treating parasitic diseases both in vitro and in vivo due to the lack of such reviews on the anti-parasitic activities of this plant. This review consisted of intensive searches from three databases including PubMed, Science Direct and Scopus. Articles were selected throughout the years, limited to English language and ^ly documented. A total of 454 potential articles were identified, but only four articles were accepted to be evaluated based on inclusion and exclusion criteria. Although there were insufficient pieces of evidence to account for the efficacy of Q. infectoria against the parasites, this plant appears to have anti-leishmanial, anti-blastocystis and anti-amoebic activities. More studies in vitro and in vivo are warranted to further validate the anti-parasitic efficacy of Q. infectoria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: Aqueous extract of Quercus infectoria (QI) galls has been reported to possess anti-fungal and anti-inflammatory activities. Hence, this study aimed to determine in vitro antimicrobial activity of formulated QI gall extract-based vaginal cream against Candida albicans and to evaluate the possible side effects on the cervicovaginal epithelium of healthy rats. Methodology and results: Three different cream formulations containing 10%, 20%, and 30% of QI gall extract respectively were tested for their antimicrobial activity against C. albicans (ATCC 10231) by using disc diffusion test. Microbroth serial dilution method was performed in determining the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and fungicidal concentration (MFC). The 30% formulated extract cream (FEC) was applied topically on the cervicovaginal surface of healthy Sprague Dawley (SD) rats and examined for local tissue effects histologically. The mean scores of inhibition zone diameter were compared by one-way ANOVA and post-hoc test using PRISM software. All extract cream formulations displayed a relatively good anti-Candida activity. The MIC values exhibited by 10%, 20%, and 30% FEC against C. albicans were 1.094 mg/mL, 0.547 mg/mL, and 0.068 mg/mL, respectively. The 10% and 20% FECs showed a significant difference (P=0.0254) in the mean of inhibition zone diameter. The lowest MFC value (0.068 mg/mL) was shown by 30% FEC. There were no abnormal changes seen at the vagina and cervical mucosa after 2 weeks application of 30% FEC. Conclusion, significance and impact of study: QI gall extract formulated in the cream base has an anti-Candida activity in vitro and the present finding suggests that this herbal cream formulation is potentially useful in preventing vaginal candidiasis without causing any unwanted local side effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]