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Introduction: Ricin intoxication is a serious condition with symptoms ranging from mild gastroenteritis to fatal outcomes due to shock and multi-organ failure. Intoxication from the ingestion of castor seeds is uncommon. However, its diagnosis is crucial, particularly with a clear history of exposure to castor seeds, regardless of the route of exposure (enteral or parenteral). Prompt diagnosis is essential to monitor and manage the patient effectively and to prevent potentially fatal outcomes. We report a case where ingestion of castor seeds resulted in gastroenteritis severe enough to necessitate emergency medical care. Case report: We present the case of a 47-year-old Belgian woman of Moroccan descent, previously healthy who was admitted to the emergency department with symptoms of colicky abdominal pain, diarrhea, and vomiting following the ingestion of six castor beans. The patient was diagnosed with ricin intoxication, admitted for observation, and received symptomatic treatment. She was discharged home after a complete recovery three days later. Conclusion: Our report underscores the clinical manifestations, hemodynamic changes, laboratory findings, and treatment of intoxication due to castor seed ingestion. It contributes to the limited literature on castor seed poisoning in humans, with a specific focus on cases in Belgium. This report aims to raise awareness among clinicians about this condition and emphasizes the importance of a comprehensive history-taking to prevent misdiagnosis and malpractice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In growing plant population, effect of stress is a perturb issue affecting its physiological, biochemical, yield loss and developmental growth. Protein-L-isoaspartate-O-methyltransferase (PIMT) is a broadly distributed protein repair enzyme which actuate under stressful environment or aging. Stress can mediate damage converting protein bound aspartate (Asp) residues to isoaspartate (iso-Asp). This spontaneous and deleterious conversion occurs at an elevated state of stress and aging. Iso-Asp formation is associated with protein inactivation and compromised cellular survival. PIMT can convert iso-Asp back to Asp, thus repairing and contributing to cellular survival. The present work describes the isolation, cloning, sequencing and expression of PIMT genes of Carica papaya (Cp pimt) and Ricinus communis (Rc pimt) Using gene specific primers, both the pimts were amplified from their respective cDNAs and subsequently cloned in prokaryotic expression vector pProEXHTa. BL21(DE3) strain of E. coli cells were used as expression host. The expression kinetics of both the PIMTs were studied with various concentrations of IPTG and at different time points. Finally, the PIMT supplemented BL21(DE3) cells were evaluated against different stresses in comparison to their counterparts with the empty vector control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To assess the effect of pure castor meal and a mixture of castor meal with ground hydrothermalized phonolite rock (CM+HP mixture) in providing nutrients, particularly N and K, and optimizing yield and quality of sweet potato, a field experiment was conducted using a randomized block design. Treatments were the absence and presence of synthetic N and K fertilizers (ammonium nitrate and KCl) combined with rates of organic fertilizers (1.2 and 2.4 Mg ha−1 of castor meal, 2.25 and 4.5 Mg ha−1 of CM+HP mixture, plus a treatment without organic fertilizers). The CM+HP mixture maintained adequate N and K status in plant leaves. Organic fertilizers increased the number of storage roots per plant and the sweetness of the storage roots, while synthetic fertilizers increased the storage root mean weight. Castor meal combined with synthetic fertilizers improved soil health (increased organic matter and enzyme activity in the soil). The combined application of synthetic fertilizers with 2.4 Mg ha−1 of castor meal or 4.5 Mg ha−1 of CM+HP mixture had the greatest benefit on storage root yield, with an average increase of 128% (10.9 Mg ha−1) on marketable storage root yield, and the nutrient removal compared with the sole application of organic fertilizers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research aims to develop and assess the anti-arthritic properties of a topically herbal gel including leaf extracts from Cardiospermum halicacabum and Ricinus communis L. in rats. Utilizing gelling agents carbopol 940 (2.5, 5, 7.5 g), nine herbal gel compositions were created. Prepared formulations were then assessed for physical appearance, spreadability, viscosity, net content, pH, extrudability, in vitro diffusion profile, and main skin irritant tests. According to the International Council for Harmonization of Technical Requirements for Pharmaceuticals for Human Use (ICH) recommendations, the stability research for the topical herbal gel composition was completed, and Freund's Complete Adjuvant (FCA) induced arthritis technique was used to assess the anti-arthritic efficacy. Additional procedures included measuring the body weight, paw volume, biochemical and hematological variables, histological analysis, and in vitro serum biomarker detection. The prepared gels followed the instructions and were uniform and stable. F5 performed better than the other compositions in terms of release kinetics (97.20%). The gel proved safe and non-toxic since no erythema or edema was seen during the skin irritation test. Comparing the herbal gel F5 comprising carbopol 940 to rats with arthritis, the topical treatment showed considerable (p <.001) anti-arthritic effect. The anti-arthritic action of the gel formulations was confirmed by decreased paw volume, absence of agglutination in reacting protein and rheumatic factor, a decline in TNFα level, restoration to baseline biochemical and hematological characteristics, decrease in thymus and spleen weight, and histopathological study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plants with medicinal properties are used all over the world for disease treatment. Poisonous phytochemicals (toxins) in some or all parts of these medicinal plants are the causeof the toxic effects exerted by some medicinal plants. The objective of this paper is to provide a review on themedicinal effects and toxic properties of the seeds of some medicinal plants (Abrus precatorius, Datura metel, Physostigma venenosum and Ricinus communis) used in ethnomedicine in Nigeria by harvesting secondary data from standard online sources. This review gives collective reports on the medicinal properties of Abrus precatorius, Datura metel, Physostigma venenosum andRicinus communis. The uses of the toxins isolated from the seeds of these plants in medicine are also reported in this review. Significant amount of information has been provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Introduction Ricin intoxication is a serious condition with symptoms ranging from mild gastroenteritis to fatal outcomes due to shock and multi-organ failure. Intoxication from the ingestion of castor seeds is uncommon. However, its diagnosis is crucial, particularly with a clear history of exposure to castor seeds, regardless of the route of exposure (enteral or parenteral). Prompt diagnosis is essential to monitor and manage the patient effectively and to prevent potentially fatal outcomes. We report a case where ingestion of castor seeds resulted in gastroenteritis severe enough to necessitate emergency medical care. Case report We present the case of a 47-year-old Belgian woman of Moroccan descent, previously healthy who was admitted to the emergency department with symptoms of colicky abdominal pain, diarrhea, and vomiting following the ingestion of six castor beans. The patient was diagnosed with ricin intoxication, admitted for observation, and received symptomatic treatment. She was discharged home after a complete recovery three days later. Conclusion Our report underscores the clinical manifestations, hemodynamic changes, laboratory findings, and treatment of intoxication due to castor seed ingestion. It contributes to the limited literature on castor seed poisoning in humans, with a specific focus on cases in Belgium. This report aims to raise awareness among clinicians about this condition and emphasizes the importance of a comprehensive history-taking to prevent misdiagnosis and malpractice.

Castor (Ricinus communis) is an oilseed usually cultivated in tropical and semi-arid conditions. The slow and uneven germination of castor seed is causing poor crop establishment and reduced seed yield. This series of studies investigated several factors influencing the time for castor seed germination and seedling emergence. Studies were made on the effect of seed coat permeability to water and the influences of temperature, morphology, and the hormone gibberellin. The best temperature for castor seed germination was near 31 °C, and the seed coat was permeable to water. The mechanical resistance of the seed coat was a mechanism controlling the germination of the castor seed. The time for germination was strongly associated with the seed coat relative weight, but it had little influence from other morphological characteristics. After the castor plants were subjected to three cycles of selection for fast germination, the seed weight was reduced, the caruncle became larger, and the seed coat became thinner. Gibberellin applied to the seed promoted a faster and higher germination rate. Pre-germination of the castor seed was not effective for promoting faster seedling emergence. Attempts to improve castor seed germination should integrate the many factors that influence this physiological process.

Castor (Ricinus communis) is an oilseed usually cultivated in tropical and semi-arid conditions. The slow and uneven germination of castor seed is causing poor crop establishment and reduced seed yield. This series of studies investigated several factors influencing the time for castor seed germination and seedling emergence. Studies were made on the effect of seed coat permeability to water and the influences of temperature, morphology, and the hormone gibberellin. The best temperature for castor seed germination was near 31 °C, and the seed coat was permeable to water. The mechanical resistance of the seed coat was a mechanism controlling the germination of the castor seed. The time for germination was strongly associated with the seed coat relative weight, but it had little influence from other morphological characteristics. After the castor plants were subjected to three cycles of selection for fast germination, the seed weight was reduced, the caruncle became larger, and the seed coat became thinner. Gibberellin applied to the seed promoted a faster and higher germination rate. Pre-germination of the castor seed was not effective for promoting faster seedling emergence. Attempts to improve castor seed germination should integrate the many factors that influence this physiological process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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This research aimed to evaluate management of Meloidogyne incognita in cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) using a rotation with castor bean (Ricinus communis L.), a potential cash crop. Reproduction of the nematode on castor bean in the greenhouse and effect of its planting on nematode populations on cotton in the field were tested. The effect of castor bean cake on nematode populations and its direct effect on cotton yield were also evaluated. Castor bean was a non-host to M. incognita in the trials. In addition, a preliminary field study showed that castor bean produced 1.2 t seed/ha when used in M. incognita infested areas, reduced populations of the nematode, and improved cotton productivity in the following season. Castor bean cake also reduced M. incognita populations. However, castor bean cake cannot be applied at doses above 100 kg/ha in the cotton planting furrow due to a phytotoxic effect on the crop. The most appropriate rate was 60 kg/ha applied to the furrow, decreasing in the nematode population at 80 days after planting and gall index as well as increasing cotton yield. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective was to evaluate the effect of detoxified castor bean replacing soybean meal in the concentrate diet or as nitrogen organic fertilizer replacing urea on intake and nutrient digestibility, blood parameters and productive performance of sheep finished on irrigated Tamani grass pasture under continuous stocking and variable stocking rate. The treatments were two concentrate diets: standard (ground corn and soybean meal) and alternative diet (ground corn and detoxified castor bean cake), and two nitrogen fertilizers: chemical (urea) and organic (fresh castor bean cake). The randomized complete block design was used in a 2 × 2 factorial arrangement with four replications (500 m² paddocks). Four sheep (2 castrated males and 2 females) were distributed in each experimental unit, totaling 64 animals with an average initial weight of 19.42 ± 3.6 kg. No effects (P > 0.05) were observed on the variables inherent to the evaluation of the pasture. The average stocking rate (SR) among treatments was 85.50 sheep/ha, equivalent to 9.87 Animal Units (AU)/ha. The alternative diet presented lower dry matter digestibility (62.71%), with no negative effects on nutrient intake and kidney parameters. Animals fed the standard and alternative diet showed average daily gain of 103.75 and 86.76 g/day, respectively. A finishing period of up to 100 days is recommended for sheep selected for production systems in semi-arid regions managed intensively on pasture. Detoxified castor bean cake did not alter nutrient intake, liver and kidney parameters of the sheep and can be used in pasture-based sheep farming. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The research was aimed to determine the potential impact of cadmium contamination on Ricinus communis. The glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PDH) activity in the root was highest when exposed to 0.2 mM of Cd, with an increase of 15.63 % and 14.48 % at 0 and 24 h, respectively, compared to its control. However, citrate synthase (CS) activity declined in leaves, in contrast, to root, i.e., 12.22 % at 48 h of Cd stress. Isocitrate dehydrogenase (ICDH) activity was maximum in leaves at 0.2 mM of Cd at 0 and 24 h, i.e., 12.36 % and 13.08 % respectively, and later decreased in activity was seen in roots and leaves as the Cd stress increased. Moreover, the level of malate dehydrogenase (MDH) declined in leaves as the Cd level increased, while activity increased in roots at 0.4 mM of Cd i.e., 17.21 %, 17.52 %, and 10.53 % at 0, 24, and 48 h respectively. The important metabolite, glutathione level in the roots of SKP 84 was higher than in the leaf extract. A decline in biomass of up to 28.70 % and 30.91 % and plant length of up to 20.80 % and 26.10 % in shoot and roots, respectively, tolerance index was maximum at 0.2 mM, i.e., 98.62 % was seen. The leaves had 35.40 % catalase (CAT) activity, while the roots had 78.26 % guaiacol peroxidase (GPX) activity at 0.6 mM of Cd. At 0.2 mM of Cd, the maximum activity of ascorbate peroxidase (APX) was observed, with 67.32 % and 62.85 % activity in roots and leaves respectively. However, a reduction in the SOD activity was seen as the Cd stress increased. Increased Cd levels decreased chlorophyll but increased MDA and proline content in leaves at 0.8 mM of Cd, i.e., 82.92 % and 21.7 %, respectively. It indicated that R. communis SKP 84, a fusarium wilt resistance line, is also tolerant to Cd and can be used for phytoremediation in Cd-contaminated areas.

ABSTRACT The purpose was to evaluate structural characteristics of pasture, behavioral aspects and physiological parameters of sheep finished on irrigated Tamani grass pasture under continuous stocking, using castor bean cake as alternative input. Structural characteristics of the pasture were assessed in a randomized block design in 2 x 2 factorial arrangement, with two sources of nitrogen fertilization (mineral - urea and organic - in natura castor bean cake) and two supplements (with or without detoxified castor bean cake), in four replications (paddocks). Behavioral aspects and physiological parameters were assessed in a randomized block design with four treatments, and repeated measures over time in eight replications (sheep). Total forage biomass, green leaf blade biomass, grazing, rumination, and idleness times, as well as respiratory rate and rectal temperature were assessed. Urea provided greater leaf blade biomass (1,807 kg DM.ha.cycle-1) and tiller population density (1,592 tillers.m-2). Grazing time reduced 65 minutes.day-1 for animals supplemented with detoxified castor bean cake and kept in pastures fertilized with urea. The use of castor bean cake did not change the physiological parameters of the animals in any of the managements evaluated and can be used as a strategic input in the finishing of sheep on pasture.

Abstract Background The fall armyworm (FAW), Spodoptera frugiperda, is an invasive and destructive pest to certain strategic crops, especially maize in Egypt. This research was conducted mainly to obtain secondary metabolites from some wild plants and fungal strains, use them in controlling FAW, and investigate their mode of action. Results The ethyl acetate extracts of Cladosporium cladosporioides and Verticillium lecanii, as well as the alkaloid extracts of Ricinus communis and Nicotiana glauca, were extracted to obtain their secondary metabolites. The secondary metabolite contents were identified by gas chromatography mass spectrometry and NMR. The toxicity of all extracts against the 3rd-instar larvae of FAW was evaluated. The possible mode of action of the extracts was studied via their effects on larval enzyme activities and larval tissue. The toxicity results illustrated that, the extract of C. cladosporioides was more effective with LC50 229 ppm, followed by the extract of V. lecanii with LC50 341 ppm and N. glauca with LC50 404 ppm, while the least effective extract was R. communis with LC50 1110 ppm after 72 h of treatment. While, the results of larval enzyme activities showed that C. cladosporioides, V. lecanii, and R. communis extracts led to significant activity of AST, ALT, ACP, and ALP enzymes, but GST and AchE were inhibited in treated larvae compared with control. While N. glauca alkaloid extract caused significant inhibition of AST, ALT, ACP, AchE, and GST enzymes, ALP was activated in the treated larvae compared with control. The results of larval tissue slides indicated that the most affected tissues were the cuticle layer and the membrane lining of the midgut, in addition to the fatty bodies. Conclusion Thus, natural pesticides would have a promising role in terms of controlling the FAW and according to this study, it was recommended that, alkaloid extracts of tested wild plants and ethyl acetate extracts of fungal strains be used as natural pesticides to control the fall armyworm, S. frugiperda.

A field experiment was conducted at the College of Agriculture, University of Diyala, which located in the city of Baqubah, the center of Diyala Governorate in the Northeastern part of the capital of Iraq, Baghdad. The experiment aimed to study the effect of spraying with four concentrations of Camellia sinensis (green tea) extract (0, 50, 75 and 100) ml/l in the yield of seed and oil of two castor plant varieties: Zibo castor and Carmencita. Statistical analysis of the data was performed using a factorial experiment according to a Completely Randomized Block Design (RCBD). The results showed a significant superiority of the concentration of 75 ml/l, which recorded the highest averages of dry weight of leaves (g), number of fruits per plant, weight of 300 seeds (g), seed yield per plant (g/plant), oil percentage (%) and oil yield (kg/ha). These values were 171.6 (g/plant), 122 fruits/plant, 68.2 (g), 53.0 (g/plant), 41.9 (%) and 494.0 (kg/ha), respectively. The study also revealed the significant superiority of the Zibo castor variety, with the highest averages for the mentioned traits, reaching 179.4 (g/plant), 134 fruits/plant, 66.8 (g), 59.2 (g/plant), 43.0 (%), and 562.2 (kg/ha), respectively. Furthermore, the study results indicated significant differences between the means of some studied traits due to the interaction between the experiment factors. The combination of spraying green tea extract at a concentration of 75 ml/l with the Zibo castor variety recorded the highest averages for seed yield, oil percentage and oil yield, which reached 66.0 (g/plant), 43.3 (%), and 630.0 (kg/ha), respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The fall armyworm (FAW), Spodoptera frugiperda, is an invasive and destructive pest to certain strategic crops, especially maize in Egypt. This research was conducted mainly to obtain secondary metabolites from some wild plants and fungal strains, use them in controlling FAW, and investigate their mode of action. Results: The ethyl acetate extracts of Cladosporium cladosporioides and Verticillium lecanii, as well as the alkaloid extracts of Ricinus communis and Nicotiana glauca, were extracted to obtain their secondary metabolites. The secondary metabolite contents were identified by gas chromatography mass spectrometry and NMR. The toxicity of all extracts against the 3rd-instar larvae of FAW was evaluated. The possible mode of action of the extracts was studied via their effects on larval enzyme activities and larval tissue. The toxicity results illustrated that, the extract of C. cladosporioides was more effective with LC50 229 ppm, followed by the extract of V. lecanii with LC50 341 ppm and N. glauca with LC50 404 ppm, while the least effective extract was R. communis with LC50 1110 ppm after 72 h of treatment. While, the results of larval enzyme activities showed that C. cladosporioides, V. lecanii, and R. communis extracts led to significant activity of AST, ALT, ACP, and ALP enzymes, but GST and AchE were inhibited in treated larvae compared with control. While N. glauca alkaloid extract caused significant inhibition of AST, ALT, ACP, AchE, and GST enzymes, ALP was activated in the treated larvae compared with control. The results of larval tissue slides indicated that the most affected tissues were the cuticle layer and the membrane lining of the midgut, in addition to the fatty bodies. Conclusion: Thus, natural pesticides would have a promising role in terms of controlling the FAW and according to this study, it was recommended that, alkaloid extracts of tested wild plants and ethyl acetate extracts of fungal strains be used as natural pesticides to control the fall armyworm, S. frugiperda. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We evaluated the effects of Taraxacum officinale L. and Ricinus communis L. on growth and physiology of sunflower and maize plants. Seeds of sunflower (cv Parson 3) and maize (cv TP 1217) were surface sterilized and soaked in 0.3 % and 0.5 % aqueous extracts of T. officinale L. and R. communis L. prior to sowing, plants were grown in pots under natural conditions. Fresh and dry weight of shoot and root, chlorophyll, carotenoids, protein, proline, phenols and flavonoids and phytohormones contents in leaves of sunflower and maize were determined. The activities of antioxidant enzymes (Superoxide dismutase (SOD), Peroxidase (POD) and defense related enzymes viz. Phenylalanine ammonia-lyase (PAL) and Polyphenol oxidase (PPO) were also recorded in leaves of maize and sunflower at vegetative phase. Phytohormones indole acetic acid (IAA), gibberellic acid (GA) and abscisic acid (ABA) were detected in T. officinale L. and R. communis L. Extract of T. officinale L. and R. communis L. significantly enhanced the shoot biomass in maize and sunflower as compared to control. Proline, phenolics, flavonoids, protein, chlorophyll, carotenoids and terpenoids content of fresh leaves were enhanced in all the treatments as compared to control. Activities of PAL, SOD, PPO and POD were also enhanced. Among all the treatments 0.3 % aqueous extract of T. officinale L. and 0.5 % aqueous extract of R. communis L. were more effective in sunflower and maize plants. The extracts of T. officinale L. and R. communis L. may be implicated to improve the growth and defensive system of maize and sunflower and induce tolerance to stresses by augmenting osmoregulation and enhancing the antioxidant and defense related enzymes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Castor is an industrial oilseed crop with great potential for biorefineries. However, little is known about the variability in the bioactive compounds in castor germplasm. This study evaluated seed weight, oil content, fatty acid profile, tocopherols, and phytosterols in 160 accessions of the USDA-ARS castor germplasm collection. The accessions were grown in Cordoba, Spain, under three different environmental conditions. Environmental and genotype-by-environment interaction effects were predominant for most traits, resulting in moderate to low broad-sense heritabilities, which ranged from 0.12 for total tocopherol content to 0.88 for hundred-seed weight. The genetic variability in the seed quality traits identified in the collection was lower than that reported previously for the germplasm of wild and semi-wild accessions from Spain, which is attributed to the lower genetic diversity in cultivated than in wild forms. The variation in seed quality traits in castor germplasm can be exploited to improve the concentration of bioactive compounds in castor cultivars. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Among the eight treatments (plant-based and selective chemical insecticides) imposed on castor against lepidopteran defoliators of castor exhibited significant variation (p £ 0.01; F-value = 5.199) with respect to natural parasitization of castor semi-looper. Among the eight treatments, natural parasitization was significantly highest (80.12%) in T1 (Cucumber + T. chilonis @ 2 lakh eggs/ha at 30 days after sowing (DAS)) followed by T0 (Control) (76.08%). Further, T7 (Pongamia oil @ 2%) (74.39%), T3 (Profenophos 50 EC @ 0.03%) (74.14%), T6 (Neem oil @ 2%) (71.46%), T5 (Mahuva oil @ 2%) (71.19%) and T2 (Fenvalerate 20 EC @ 0.02%) (69.64%) were found next in the order with respect to natural parasitization of castor semi-looper. Significantly lowest natural parasitization was recorded in T4 (Quinalphos 25 EC @ 0.05%) (63.07%). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: No descriptions in scientific literature exist about anti Entamoeba histolytica effect of Ricinus communis although is used by traditional medicine in Latin America for treatment or prophylaxis of intestinal amebiasis. Purpose: To evaluate the in vitro cysticidal effect of castor oil extracts available as regulated phytotherapeutic products against E. histolytica. Study design: In vitro evaluation of the cysticidal effect against E. histolytica of R. communis oil extracts. Methods: We analyzed the effects of three commercial castor oil compounds on the viability and morphology of E. histolytica cysts. Results: The three samples had significant cysticidal effects and altered cyst morphology after 10 h of exposure. The effective dose 50 % (EC50) ranged between 35 and 50 μg/ml, with a range of estimated EC50 25 and 35 μg/ml in the human intestine in vivo. Conclusion: Castor oil pharmaceutical products have good in vitro anti-E. histolytica, which requires clinical trials to confirm its anti-amoebic effect.

In August 2021, water-soaking symptoms of bacterial spot disease were observed on castor bean in a field in Gangseo District, Busan. Bacteria isolated from the lesion when cultured on tryptic soy agar appeared to be nonmucoid and pale green. To confirm whether the isolates were the causative agent of the spot disease, they were inoculated onto healthy castor bean plants. The same symptoms were observed on the inoculated tissue, and the bacteria were reisolated from the lesion. Furthermore, the isolates were consistent with the biochemical and physiological features of Pseudomonas capsici. Sequencing analysis using 16S rRNA and housekeeping genes (gyrB, rpoD) showed that the isolates shared a high sequence similarity with P. capsici. These results confirmed that the strains belonged to P. capsici. To our knowledge, this is the first report of bacterial spot disease caused by P. capsici on castor bean in Korea.

To assess the effect of pure castor meal and a mixture of castor meal with ground hydrothermalized phonolite rock (CM+HP mixture) in providing nutrients, particularly N and K, and optimizing yield and quality of sweet potato, a field experiment was conducted using a randomized block design. Treatments were the absence and presence of synthetic N and K fertilizers (ammonium nitrate and KCl) combined with rates of organic fertilizers (1.2 and 2.4 Mg ha−1 of castor meal, 2.25 and 4.5 Mg ha−1 of CM+HP mixture, plus a treatment without organic fertilizers). The CM+HP mixture maintained adequate N and K status in plant leaves. Organic fertilizers increased the number of storage roots per plant and the sweetness of the storage roots, while synthetic fertilizers increased the storage root mean weight. Castor meal combined with synthetic fertilizers improved soil health (increased organic matter and enzyme activity in the soil). The combined application of synthetic fertilizers with 2.4 Mg ha−1 of castor meal or 4.5 Mg ha−1 of CM+HP mixture had the greatest benefit on storage root yield, with an average increase of 128% (10.9 Mg ha−1) on marketable storage root yield, and the nutrient removal compared with the sole application of organic fertilizers.

Shemnkande NS, Lyantagaye SL, Mpenda FN. 2023. Antimicrobial potential and cytotoxicity of endophytic fungi crude extracts from Ricinus communis of Tanzania. Asian J Trop Biotechnol 20: 69-78. The study aimed to assess the antimicrobial potential and cytotoxicity of crude extracts from endophytic fungi found in Ricinus communis L. from Tanzania. The researchers isolated and identified fifty-one fungi species from the leaves and roots of R. communis. The isolates were morphologically characterized, considering color, size, shape, elevation, margin, and density parameters. The isolates were further analyzed using Sanger sequencing and bioinformatics tools to determine their phylogenetic relationships and identify the isolates. Two techniques were deployed to evaluate the antimicrobial potential: disc diffusion and microdilution. The disc diffusion method measured the inhibition zones formed by the fungi extracts against selected bacterial strains (Bacillus subtilis, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Staphylococcus aureus. In comparison, the microdilution technique determined the crude extracts' Minimum Inhibitory Concentrations (MIC) against the bacterial strains. Cytotoxicity of the crude extracts was evaluated using the brine shrimp lethality assay; Brine shrimp larvae were exposed to the extracts to evaluate their potential toxicity. The study successfully isolated 51 fungi species from R. communis and observed significant morphological variation. Four endophytic fungi (Penicillium menonorum, Curvularia verruculosa, Aspergillus niger and Aspergillus aculeatinus) exhibited potent antibacterial activity against B. subtilis, E. coli, P. aeruginosa, and S. aureus, with low minimum inhibitory concentrations (3.125 µg/mL to 0.098 µg/mL). Cytotoxicity tests on brine shrimp larvae indicated the crude extracts' non-toxicity, suggesting their potential as safe therapeutic agents. The findings suggest that endophytic fungi from R. communis possess potential therapeutic applications against drug-resistant pathogens, warranting further investigation of their bioactive compounds and broader biotechnological uses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was to examine the effect of replacing soybean meal (SBM) with detoxified castor seed meal (DCM) on the intake, digestibility, feeding behavior, and performance of pasture-finished (rainy season) steers supplemented with concentrate at 0.4% of their body weight. Forty ½ Holstein + ½ Zebu steers (initial weight: 283.3 ± 36.3 kg) were allocated to four treatments in a completely randomized experimental design. Treatments consisted of diets in which DCM replaced 0, 30, 60, and 90% of SBM in the supplement dry matter (DM). The steers were finished on an Urochloa brizantha pasture and the experiment lasted 112 days. Replacing SBM with DCM did not influence (P > 0.05) the intake or apparent digestibility of DM, crude protein, or neutral detergent insoluble fiber of the animals. Grazing time increased (P < 005), whereas the intake and rumination efficiencies of the steers did not change (P > 0.05) with the substitution. The replacement of SBM with DCM in the supplement fed to the steers also did not influence (P > 0.05) their final weight, average daily gain, or feed conversion (P > 0.05). We recommend replacing up to 90% (DM basis) of SBM with DCM in the concentrate supplement of steers grazing on Urochloa brizantha pasture during rainy season while supplemented with concentrate at 0.4% of their body weight. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper focuses on the use of castor oil plant (Ricinus communis) as filler in rotomolded parts using polyethylene (PE) and polylactic acid (PLA) as polymer matrixes. The vegetable shredded material was used in 5 and 10% weight following a dry blending procedure and then rotomolded to obtain cube test parts. This material was characterized to determine its chemical composition, thermal stability, and structure. The NaOH-treated material shows reduced hemicellulose content and higher thermal stability. Obtained composite materials were characterized in terms of mechanical (tensile, flexural, and impact) and thermal properties, morphology, and bio-disintegration behavior. The use of Ricinus as filler in rotomolded PE composite decreases, in general terms, mechanical properties of neat PE, while no significant changes in thermal or bio-disintegration properties are found. On the contrary, PLA composites show higher tensile strength and similar Young's modulus than the matrix, although with reduced flexural and impact properties. Alkali-treated Ricinus material produces parts with higher porosity and thus, lower mechanical properties than composites with untreated material. Finally, the incorporation of this vegetal material modifies to a great extent the thermal properties of the PLA matrix. The bio-disintegration rate increases due to the use of fibers, probably because of the higher moisture absorption of composites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Castor is an industrial oilseed crop with great potential for biorefineries. However, little is known about the variability in the bioactive compounds in castor germplasm. This study evaluated seed weight, oil content, fatty acid profile, tocopherols, and phytosterols in 160 accessions of the USDA-ARS castor germplasm collection. The accessions were grown in Cordoba, Spain, under three different environmental conditions. Environmental and genotype-by-environment interaction effects were predominant for most traits, resulting in moderate to low broad-sense heritabilities, which ranged from 0.12 for total tocopherol content to 0.88 for hundred-seed weight. The genetic variability in the seed quality traits identified in the collection was lower than that reported previously for the germplasm of wild and semi-wild accessions from Spain, which is attributed to the lower genetic diversity in cultivated than in wild forms. The variation in seed quality traits in castor germplasm can be exploited to improve the concentration of bioactive compounds in castor cultivars.

Abstract Several studies have been carried out to expand the use of Ricinus communis L. castor bean (Ricinus communis L castor bean.). This oilseed finds appropriate conditions for its development in Brazil, with more than 700 applications. The main allergens of this plant are Ric c1 and Ric c3, that cross-react with various aeroallergens and food allergens such as peanuts, soybeans, corn, and wheat. This study aimed to determine the effect of mutations in Ric c3 amino acid residues known to affect IgE binding and allergy challenges. Based on the Ric c3 structure, B-cell epitopes, and amino acid involved in IgE binding, we produce recombinant mutant protein, mrRic c3, secreted from E. coli. Strategic glutamic acid residues in IgE-biding regions were changed by Leucine. The allergenicity of mrRic c3 was evaluated by determination of IgE, IgG1, and total IgG in immunized Balb/c mice and by degranulation assays of mast cells isolated from Wistar rats. The mrRic c3 presented a percentage of mast cell degranulation close to that seen in the negative control, and the immunization of mice with mrRic c3 presented lower levels of IgE and IgG1 than the group treated with the protein without mutations. The mutant mrRic c3 had an altered structure and reduced ability to stimulate pro-inflammatory responses and bind IgE but retained its ability to induce blocking antibodies. Thus, producing a hypoallergenic mutant allergen (mrRic c3) may be essential in developing new AIT strategies.

Bacillus cereus and Staphylococcus aureus are the most important bacteria that cause nosocomial infection and are resistant to antibiotics. Crude proteins from Cassia fistula and Ricinus communis were isolated to study their medicinal potential against Bacillus cereus, and Staphylococcus aureus. Extraction of the crude proteins from plants was done by phosphate buffer saline (PBS) and Tris NaCl buffer by using the roots and seeds of both plants. Antimicrobial activity was checked against bacterial strains by using agar disc diffusion and agar well diffusion methods. Zones of inhibitions were measured. On well diffusion method, PBS buffer protein extract of C. fistula roots showed a maximum zone of inhibition of 25 mm against B. cereus. Tris NaCl buffer extracts of C. fistula roots and seeds showed zones of inhibition of 12mm and 5mm respectively against S. aureus while Ricinus communis roots showed a zone of 12mm against B. cereus. Because the protein of the plants showed good antimicrobial activity, we can use these plants against various diseases caused by Bacillus cereus and Staphylococcus aureus.

This study was aimed at assessing the resistance of Delonix regia wood treated with an eco-friendly bio preservative exploring castor (Ricinus communis) seed oil identified as a promising candidate for wood antifungal treatment, attributed to its documented antimicrobial properties. Sixty wood block samples of conditioned Delonix regia were treated with five different concentration levels (0 %, 25 %, 50 %, 75 % and 100 %) of formulated fungicides prepared from Sohxlet extracted oil of castor seeds and the untreated wood samples served as the control. The wood blocks were exposed to Pleurotus ostreatus (white rot fungi) and Sclerotium rolfsii (Brown rot fungi) for 14 weeks and parameters including preservative absorption, oil yield, and weight loss of the wood samples subjected to treatment were assessed. Using Analysis of variance (ANOVA) to analyze the data obtained, the mean oil yield of seeds of Ricinus communis extracted was 37.75%. The100% concentration level had the best performance with the highest absorption of 92.68 (kg/m3) while the least absorption (69.96 kg/m3) was recorded for the 25% concentration except for the control (0%) which was 118.60kg/m3. Statistically significant variations in weight loss were observed across different concentration levels, with a significance level of p < 0.05 and it ranged from 35.02 -31.42(%) for white rot while it ranged from 42.32 to 31.98(%) for brown rot apart from the control which was recorded to be 38.25% and 45.28% respectively. It can therefore be established that Delonix regia wood can be preserved with Ricinus communis seed oil extract against white rot and brown rot fungi. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the acaricidal activity of synthesized titanium dioxide nanoparticles using aqueous flower extract of Calotropis gigantea and encapsulated Azadirachta indica, Ricinus communis on synthesized titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO2 NPs) against ticks Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus. The titanium dioxide nanoparticles were synthesized by addition of C. gigantea flower extract with titanium sulphate solution and thus synthesized nanoparticles were characterized using DLS (Dynamic Light Scattering) and zeta potential, FT-IR (Fourier transformed infrared spectroscopy) and SEM (Scanning electron microscope). The maximum efficacy was observed for A-TiO2 (A. indica coated TiO2 NPs) with LC50 and LC99 values of 8.264 and 47.097 ppm. Biofabricated TiO2 NPs posses high acaricidal activity and can be used as alternative to chemical acaricides. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Castor (Ricinus communis) seeds are rich in a type of hydroxy fatty acid called ricinoleic acid, which is in high demand for the production of plant-based plastics, lubricants, and hydraulic oils. However, the high content of ricin, a toxic protein, in these seeds has restricted further expansion in the area of castor cultivation. Therefore, the development of ricin-free castor is needed. Genome editing technology, although successfully applied in several plant species, is still in the developing stages in castor and awaits the identification of an endogenous U6 promoter with robust function. Here, we searched for U6 small nuclear RNA (snRNA) genes in the castor genome. This led to the identification of six U6 snRNA genes. The promoters of these U6 snRNA genes were cloned, and their function was examined in castor cells using the particle delivery method. The results showed that a U6 promoter length of approximately 300 bp from the transcription start site was sufficient to activate gene expression. This study provides insights into the endogenous castor U6 promoter sequences and outlines a method for verifying the function of U6 promoters in plants using the particle delivery system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In fish farming, one of the barriers is the cost of food, which can reach up to 70% of production costs. Faced with this fact, researchers have been looking for solutions to minimize these costs by replacing traditional ingredients with alternative ones. In this sense, the present study aims to evaluate the inclusion of castor bean bran in diets for Nile tilapia fingerlings. We used 144 animals with a mean initial weight of 0.8 ± 0.01 g, distributed in 24 polyethylene aquariums, with a capacity of 80L of water, connected to a recirculation system, in a completely randomized experimental design, consisting of four treatments: 0.0; 3.0; 6.0 and 9.0% of castor bean bran, with six replications each. At the end of the experimental period, final weight, total length, survival rate, weight gain, feed intake, apparent feed conversion, protein efficiency rate, condition factor, and hepatosomatic and liposomatic index. Castor bean bran showed a decreasing linear effect on final weight, total length and weight gain. Thus, the inclusion of castor bean bran in diets for Nile tilapia fingerlings compromised the weight gain of these animals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Plants are the source of many important drugs. Ricinus communis is utilized as a traditional folkloric remedy for the treatment of a wide extend of diseases around the world. Large number of phytochemicals such as alkaloids, terpenes, and phenolic compounds that have an established anticancer, antimicrobial, and immunological impact presence in many plant families. Objective: The aim of the present study was to investigate the immunological impact of R. communis leaves extract on human immune response using isolated human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMNC). Materials and Methods: Cells were isolated using the gradient centrifugation method and treated with R. communis leaves extract at different concentrations, and then, the cytotoxic effect was evaluated using 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay, and the immunologic effect was estimated by measuring the cytokine levels via the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay technique. Results: Plant extract showed a low cytotoxic effect on PBMNC at therapeutic doses and high doses (1000 µg/mL) used. Plant extract caused a significant reduction in the levels of interleukin (IL)-4 and IL-17 at higher doses and increased IFN-ɣ at both doses used. Conclusion: R. communis leaves extract appears to be safe for medical uses and has immunomodulatory effects.

No cultivo de peixes, um dos entraves é o gasto com a alimentação, que pode chegar até 70% dos custos de produção. Diante desse fato, os pesquisadores vêm buscando soluções, para minimizar estes custos por meio da substituição de ingredientes tradicionais por alternativos. Neste sentido, o presente estudo visa avaliar a inclusão do farelo de mamona em dietas para alevinos de tilápia do Nilo. Foram utilizados 144 animais com peso médio inicial 0,8 ± 0,01 g, distribuídos em 24 aquários de polietileno, com capacidade para 80L de água, cada um, interligados a um sistema de recirculação, em delineamento experimental inteiramente casualizado, composto por quatro tratamentos: 0,0; 3,0; 6,0 e 9,0% de farelo de mamona, com seis repetições, cada um. Ao término do período experimental foram avaliados: peso final, comprimento total, taxa de sobrevivência, ganho em peso, consumo de ração, conversão alimentar aparente, taxa de eficiência proteica, fator de condição, e os índices hepatossomático e lipossomático. O farelo de mamona apresentou efeito linear decrescente sobre o peso final, comprimento total e ganho em peso. Desta forma, a inclusão do farelo de mamona em dietas para alevinos de tilápia do Nilo comprometeu o ganho em peso destes animais.

Abstract In dogs, Rhipicephalus linnaei transmits pathogens such as Ehrlichia canis, Babesia vogeli, and Hepatozoon canis. The veterinary market has synthetic acaricides to ticks control. Esters derived from castor oil are efficient. However, there is little information about their effects on non-target organisms. This work consisted of a clinical (AST, ALT, and ALP) and histological and histochemical analysis (liver and spleen) of female rabbits exposed to these esters and afoxolaner. The rabbits were divided into three groups: control group (CG) received Bandeirante® rabbit feed; the afoxolaner treatment (TG1) received rabbit feed and two doses of afoxolaner; castor oil esters treatment (TG2) received rabbit feed enriched with esters (1.75 g esters/kg). No alterations were observed in the AST, ALT, and ALP enzymes in exposure to esters TG2. Rabbits from TG1 showed changes in AST. The liver of rabbits exposed to afoxolaner underwent histological and histochemical changes, such as steatosis and vacuolation, as well as poor protein labeling. Polysaccharides were intensely observed in the group exposed to esters. The spleen showed no changes in any of the exposure. Esters from castor oil caused fewer liver changes when incorporated into the feed and fed to rabbits than exposure to afoxolaner.

In the present study, we have synthesised silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs) in a hazard free method using dry leaves extract of Ricinus communis in a single step. The prepared Ag NPs were confirmed by an absorbance maximum at 430 nm using UV-vis spectrophotometer. Other characterisation techniques like IR, XRD, HR-TEM and FE-SEM were also utilised to confirm their formation and further study of the particle properties. The effect of leaf extract, effect of concentration of salt and effect of pH on formation of Ag NPs were analysed. The Ag NPs thus formed were calculated to possess 78% crystallinity approximately with a spherical shape. The size calculated via HR-TEM and FE-SEM was found to be 36 nm. Ag NPs synthesised using Ricinus communis was further studied for degradation of Congo Red, Methylene Blue and Reactive Red 120 dyes in presence of NaBH4 under sunlight. The study of antifungal activities of these particles on fungal strains namely Candida albicans and Aspergillus fumigates suggests higher efficiency of the Ag NPs against Aspergillus fumigates in comparison to the standard drug fluconazole. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Medicinal plants are rich in bioactive components that are utilized to treat various human ailments. They are crucial to healing as well. Phytochemical constituents are responsible for the medicinal activity of plant species. Phytochemical screening is an important step in identifying bioactive compounds present in particular medicinal plants. Hence, in this present work, phytochemical screening of leaf extract of some traditional medicinal plants, namely Cannabis sativa, Ricinus communis, and Bryophyllum pinnatum was carried out. The solvent extracts of the leaves of respective plants were prepared using the Soxhlet apparatus with acetone, chloroform, petroleum ether, and aqueous solvents. Qualitative phytochemical analysis of plants included tests for reducing sugars, flavonoids, steroids, glycosides, polyphenols, tannins, terpenoids, and coumarins. All eight tested phytoconstituents were found present in all three plants in any solvent extracts. Aqueous extract confirmed the presence of a maximum number of phytoconstituents in C. sativa in comparison to other solvents. Acetone confirmed the maximum and chloroform confirmed the minimum number of phytoconstituents in R. communis, while chloroform confirmed the maximum and aqueous extract confirmed the minimum number of phytoconstituents in B. pinnatum. These phytochemicals may be a source of innovative plant-based medications because their existence is connected with the therapeutic potential of these plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Cellulose synthase A (CeSA) is a protein that can synthesize cellulose on the plasma membrane of plant cells, and has cis-acting elements related to leaf morphological development. In the process of higher plant growth and development, the elongation of cells is affected by hormones and the environment, making plant growth highly different. Among them, the cell wall plays a limiting role in the elongation length of cells, while cellulose is an important component of the cell wall and has an important impact on the cell morphology of plants. CeSA is an important regulator of plant growth and development. In this study, the gene structure, chromosome localization, physicochemical properties, secondary structure, tertiary structure, signal peptide and subcellular localization, protein transmembrane domain, collinearity analysis, conserved Motifs, promoter homeopathic elements and phylogeny of CeSA family members were identified and analyzed by the identification and biogenetic informatics of the reference genome of Ricinus communis, combined with the castor genome database. A total of 8 CeSA transcription factors were identified from the castor reference genome, named RcCeSA1～RcCeSA8, distributed on 8 chromosomes. The 8 RcCeSAs proteins were all hydrophilic proteins, did not contain signal peptides, and the protein subcellular localization was mainly on chloroplasts and Golgi apparatus. 70% of the α-spiral and irregular curling in secondary structures; The gene conservation analysis of RcCeSAs showed that Motifs except Motif1 and Motif2 were all conserved Motifs in the RcCeSA family. The analysis of gene promoter cis-acting elements found that there were leaf morphological development and related elements involved in defense and stress response in the promoter regions of RcCeSA1, RcCeSA4 and RcCeSA7 transcription factors, which may be rapidly expressed under adverse conditions and exert their potential functions. Phylogenetic tree analysis showed that the RcCeSA family was more closely related to soybean and sunflower. The results of this study explored the molecular mechanism and function of CeSA-related transcription factors in the regulation of plant cellulose synthesis in castor beans, which laid a foundation for further study of leaf morphological differences and cellulose content and the expression of genes related to cellulose synthesis in castor beans, and laid a foundation for establishing the important role of plant morphology in actual production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ricinus communis L. (Euphorbiaceae, Acalyphoideae) is a highly variable species known as the castor oil plant. This study aimed to describe R. communis using several methodologies, such as vegetative morphometry, leaf surface ultrastructure, soil analysis, and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis, to understand the diversity of this species. The morphological analysis revealed that some samples had purple stems while others were grayish-green. The purple-stemmed R. communis phenotype reflects the intra-specific diversity of the species. The multivariate analysis of 25 R. communis samples based on 34 vegetative morphometric characteristics revealed that they belonged to three main groups (morphotypes). Each group attained some specific characteristics discriminating it from the other groups. Selected samples from each group were investigated using SEM, soil analysis, and GC-MS. The performed GC-MS technique revealed that six major compounds were detected in the chromatograms of the studied samples. The highest percentages of n-Hexadecanoic acid and 9,12,15-Octadecatrienoic acid were recorded. Ricinus communis demonstrated adaptive growth capability, where plants inhabiting coastal sites are salt-sensitive, while inland plants are relatively drought-tolerant species. The intra-specific variation between R. communis morphotypes indicated the possibility of the direct and indirect use of these varieties in genetic improvement programs of the species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Diabetes shows the damage of cells and organs because of improper sugar metabolism. It results in oxidative damage which causes microvascular and macrovascular complications. It will become the requirement of drug development that acts towards hyperglycemia and oxidative damage. For drug development, plants containing various bioactive compounds and minerals with fewer side effects were used. Among various plants, we used Mangifera indica leaf and Ricinus communis stem. The study was designed to explore a phytochemical analysis of the ethyl acetate extract of Mangifera indica and the aqueous extract of Ricinus communis to evaluate its in vitro antidiabetic activity by using α-amylase assay. In our present study, the phytochemical analysis was done for ethyl acetate extracts of Mangifera indica leaves and aqueous extracts of Ricinus communis stem to know the bioactive compounds present in these extracts. The Mangifera indica leaves extract showed 72.5% inhibition in 1000 µl concentration and 48.7% inhibition in 50 µl concentration. The Ricinus communis stem showed 57.0% inhibition in 1000 µl concentration and 40.6% inhibition in 50 µl concentration. The plant extracts showed significant enzyme inhibitory activity, so the compound isolation, purification and characterisation which is responsible for inhibiting activity, has to be done for the usage of the antidiabetic agent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plant extracts are a great source of molecules with insecticidal activity and are used to control pests in various crop production systems. In this study, we evaluated the aphidicidal properties in vitro of the n-hexane extract of leaves of castor-bean (Ricinus communis L.; Euphorbiaceae) at different concentrations (0.5, 1.0, 2.5, 5.0 and 10 kg m-3) against apterous adults of corn leaf aphid (Rhopalosiphum maidis Fitch) and the yellow sugarcane aphid (Sipha flava Forbes). The observed effects were dose-dependent, and the highest concentration evaluated (10 kg m-3) caused 82% mortality in R. maidis and 79% in S. flava. To identify chemical compounds, present in the extract we used mass gas chromatography, identifying 16 compounds. Palmitic acid was the major compound, with 45.34% abundance. The data obtained indicate the existence of insecticidal compounds in the castor-bean n-hexane extract, which could be used as an alternative bioinsecticide in the integrated management of these two aphid species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]