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This study investigated the use of the essential oil of Thymus vulgaris (EOTV) and its nanoemulsion (NEOTV) as sedatives during the transport of juvenile Colossoma macropomum (30.2 ± 3.90 g and 11.8 ± 0.8 cm). The EOTV was characterized by gas chromatography, while the NEOTV was prepared by sonication and characterized by zeta potential. Six treatments were evaluated: a basal treatment with blood collection from 10 juveniles without transport management, and five treatments with transport, with three replicates each (transport bags), containing the following: 0 (control), 10 mg/L of EOTV, 20 mg/L of EOTV, 10 mg/L of NEOTV and 20 mg/L of NEOTV. The juveniles were transported for 4 h in 10-L plastic bags with 6 L of water and pure oxygen supplementation, at a density of 10 juveniles per bag. Water quality parameters were measured immediately after opening the bags post-transport. Blood samples were collected from 10 juveniles from each treatment immediately at 24 h and 72 h after transport. The EOTV presented p-cymene (47.63%) and carvacrol (30.44%) as major components, and the NEOTV presented particles with an average diameter of less than 100 nm. There was no mortality during the experiment. The water in the bags of juveniles transported with 20 mg/L of EOTV, 10 mg/L of NEOTV, and 20 mg/L of NEOTV presented lower temperatures than the control. In addition, the water in the bags with 20 mg/L of NEOTV presented higher concentrations of dissolved oxygen than the control. Juveniles transported with 20 mg/L of EOTV, 10 mg/L of NEOTV, and 20 mg/L of NEOTV exhibited lower hemoglobin, hematocrit, and glucose levels after transport. It is concluded that, overall, NEOTV is more effective than EOTV. The use of 20 mg/L of NEOTV in the water is recommended to reduce oxygen consumption and avoid hyperglycemia during the transport of juvenile C. macropomum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a prominent multidrug-resistant and biofilm-forming bacteria. Mono-floral honey, enriched with a variety of biological compounds, can be categorized as medical-grade honey due to its notable pharmacological benefits. In this study, two types of Iranian honey were thoroughly characterized, and the antimicrobial and anti-biofilm properties were examined against three clinical strains of multidrug-resistant P. aeruginosa. Methods: Citrus and Thyme honey from Alborz were selected based on physicochemical, phytochemical, and melissopalynological tests conducted from a medical perspective. The antibacterial activity of the honey samples against three clinical strains of multidrug-resistant P. aeruginosa isolated from wound infections was evaluated using both the well-diffusion and broth microdilution methods. Additionally, an antibiofilm assay was performed using the crystal violet method in microplates. Results: Both medical grade honey samples exhibited considerable antibacterial activity against the three P. aeruginosa isolates at 75–100% v/v concentrations with inhibition zones measuring between 15 and 30 mm. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and the minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) values for both types of honey were 6.25% v/v (final concentration). The antibiofilm assay indicated that both types of honey demonstrated varying levels of antibiofilm activity. Citrus honey at 9% concentration was the most effective, showing an average inhibition rate of 59%, while Citrus honey at 2.3% final concentration exhibited the least effectiveness with an average inhibition rate of 23%. Discussion: A thorough analysis of the honeys studied confirmed their authenticity and the presence of medicinal compounds. The results of honey tests correspond to the normal range (natural Honey) in the Council of the European Union. Based on the evaluation and compliance with the medical grade criteria including authenticity, health, qualities well botanical origin mentioned honey is classified in medical grade. The antibacterial results indicated that both Thyme and Citrus honeys effectively inhibit the growth and biofilm formation of P. aeruginosa. Therefore, these honeys may serve as natural and safe alternatives or adjuncts to conventional antibiotic therapy for wound healing and infection management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Thyme and oregano essential oils (EOs) and their components have numerous applications in the pharmaceutical, food, and cosmetic industries owing to their antioxidant, antibacterial, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and immunological properties. We attempted to create new chemotypes through the hybridization of thyme and oregano for functional EO research and product development. Here, we used interspecific hybridization to create new thyme and oregano germplasms with new EO chemotypes. The antioxidant activities of these new chemotype EOs were verified by DPPH, ABTS, and FRAP analyses. We determined that there are five types of thyme hybrid EOs: geraniol-type, carvacrol-type, thymol-type, parent polymerization-type, and α-terpineol/α-terpinyl acetate-type. Moreover, there are five types of oregano hybrid EOs: carvacrol-type, thymol-type, sabinene hydrate-type, parent polymerization-type, and carvacrol/sabinene hydrate-type. The geraniol, thymol, and carvacrol contents ranged from 30.45%, 1.21% and 0.00%, respectively, in the parents to 81.66%, 52.65%, and 46.16%, respectively, in the thyme hybrids. The carvacrol and thymol contents ranged from 2.33% to 24.18%, respectively, in the parents to 94.16% and 76.77%, respectively, in the oregano hybrids, indicating obvious heterosis. We further used three antioxidant assays, DPPH, ABTS, and FRAP, to analyse the antioxidant activity of thyme and oregano hybrid EO samples. The antioxidant capacities of carvacrol- and thymol-type EOs were significantly superior to those of other chemotypes. Our data suggest that carvacrol- and thymol-type EOs with greater antioxidant potential can be applied in many industries. In addition, the function of high geraniol-type thyme EO should be further researched. The results will also be very useful for the selection of new varieties, functional research on carvacrol-, thymol-, and geraniol-type essential oils, and product development of feed additives, cosmetics, etc. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biological mechanisms of seed germination in response to salinity stress affect the successful establishment of plant populations. Therefore, this study was aimed to induce salt stress resistance in thyme seeds at the germination stage using different priming techniques. In order to perceive the most appropriate seed priming protocol, all priming treatments, including osmopriming (potassium nitrate), hormopriming (gibberellic acid), and hybrid-priming (potassium nitrate with gibberellin hormone), and non-priming treatment (control) were screened at different salinity levels (0, 3, 6, 9, and 12 dS/m). Hybrid priming technique (2% potassium nitrate with 0.6 mM gibberellin) is one of the most effective seed pretreatments to improve seed germination indices at all tested salinity levels. Our results showed an increase in hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and malondialdehyde (MDA) content with increasing salinity concentrations. Therefore, in primed seeds, total antioxidant capacity and phenolic and flavonoid content were increased significantly as compared to non-primed seeds at all levels of salinity stress. This consequently decreased H2O2 and MDA content and improved seed germination capacity under salinity stress condition. Moreover, this favorable priming treatment could induce salinity resistance in the germination and seedling growth stages by promoting assimilates (soluble sugars, proline, and glycine betaine) accumulation and adjusting the mineral elements ratio (potassium to sodium ratio), resulting in an increase in seedling growth, germination percentage, and germination rate at different salinity levels. Overall, hybrid priming treatments could play a more effective role in increasing germination potential, seedling rate and biochemical indices of thyme seed under salt stress condition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to identify Salmonella species in two systems for quail raising (deep litter system and cages system). Determination of antibiotic susceptibility, β-lactamase resistance genes profile and susceptibility to chitosan, thyme extract and S. cerevisiae was examined. Fifteen Salmonella isolates were isolated from eighty cloacal swabs examined, with a higher incidence from those of deep litter systems than cage housing systems. Regarding the environmental samples, Salmonella was higher in the deep litter system than in cage housing. Serological identification of 27 salmonella isolates typed them into 8 Salmonella spp. including S. Tsevie, S. Infantis, S. Kentucky, S. Typhimurium, S. Larochelle, S. Molade, S. Enteritidis and S. Labadi. The profile of β-lactamase-resistance genes revealed the presence of blaTEM and blaSHV genes in S. Typhimurium and S. Infantis; blaTEM and blaCTX-M1 genes in S. Enteritidis and S. Molade, while S. Kentucky and S. Tsevie were positive for the blaCTX-M1 gene only. S. Larochelle was negative for all of them. Thyme and chitosan extract showed that S. cerevisiae had the highest inhibitory activity against the tested strains. In conclusion, farms with superior biosecurity and hygiene practices will reduce the risk of pathogens and eliminate the need for prophylactic antibiotics, thereby preventing antibiotic resistance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Thymol is a phenol monoterpene that is naturally derived from cymene and is an isomer of carvacrol. It constitutes a significant portion (10%–64%) of the essential oils found in thyme (Thymus vulgaris L., Lamiaceae), a medicinal plant renowned for its therapeutic properties. Wild thyme is native to the Mediterranean region and has been used in cooking and medicine for a long time. In contemporary contexts, both thymol and thyme offer diverse functional applications in the pharmaceutical, food, and cosmetic industries. Thymol has attracted scientific interest for its potential therapeutic applications in pharmaceuticals and nutraceuticals. Studies have explored its efficacy in treating respiratory, nervous, and cardiovascular disorders, highlighting its promising role in diverse therapeutic interventions. Additionally, this compound demonstrates antimicrobial, antioxidant, anticarcinogenic, anti‐inflammatory, and antispasmodic properties. It also shows potential as a growth enhancer and has immunomodulatory properties as well. Other discussed aspects include thymol toxicity, bioavailability, metabolism, and distribution in animals and humans. This review summarizes the most significant data regarding the beneficial effects of thyme bioactive compounds and their applications as a food preservative while taking into account the thyme plant extract and its essential oil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: This experiment evaluated whether the combination of essential oils (thyme, rosemary, orange) with extracts of Cinnamomum and Quillaja saponaria (enriched with tocopherols) in steers' diet has positive effects on the health, digestibility, growth, oxidative stress, and fatty acid profile of meat. Methods: The experiment included 24 Holstein steers, divided into two groups, randomly divided (treated = phytogenic mixture (n = 12); control = monensin (n = 12)), undergoing a growth phase of 120 days and 90 days of finishing in individual pens, with a monthly collection of blood, rumen fluid, feces, and feed. Results: In the finishing phase (days 150 to 210), there was a tendency (p = 0.07) toward more significant average daily weight gain when cattle consumed a phytogenic mixture than monensin. The use of the phytogenic product showed greater feed efficiency in the period from 150 to 240 days (p < 0.05), with higher levels of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), without differences in the composition of these SCFAs between the control and treated groups, with a reduction in apparent digestibility in the treated group. In blood parameters, the treated group showed higher erythrocyte counts (p < 0.05) without changes in leukocytes, lymphocytes, granulocytes, monocytes, and platelets. The phytogenic treatment demonstrated higher total protein and globulin levels, with increased glucose levels on days 30 and 210 (p < 0.05). Ceruloplasmin and haptoglobin levels increased in the treated group without changes in ferritin, transferrin, C-reactive protein, IgA, and heavy-chain immunoglobulins (p < 0.05). A reduction in oxidative stress was observed using the phytogenic agent, with a marked decrease in the levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and carbonyl proteins, with a tendency to increase glutathione S-transferase (p < 0.05). In meat, the phytogenic reduced saturated fatty acids with increased polyunsaturated fatty acids and increased the omega 6/omega 3 ratio. Lower levels of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances and ROS were detected in the meat combined with a higher concentration of total thiols in the treated group than in the control group. Conclusions: The use of the phytogenic in steers' diets has shown to be a viable candidate for replacing monensin, presenting equal or superior performance results with systemic modulating effects on oxidative stress, meat quality, and serum and biochemical parameters that contribute to more substantial health and efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Objectives: Breast cancer is the most common cause of death in women worldwide and the most commonly diagnosed cancer. Although several therapeutic approaches are widely used against breast cancer, their adverse effects often lead to symptoms severely affecting the quality of life. Alternative methods have been explored to reduce these adverse effects, and nutraceuticals have yielded promising results. This review will discuss mechanisms of action and potential applications against breast cancer of some nutraceuticals, specifically marjoram, thyme, and persimmon leaves. Methods: A systematic search was conducted across the public databases of PubMed, PubChem, and Google Scholar, with a specific focus on the plant extracts and phytochemicals of interest, as well as the anticarcinogenic mechanisms. Results: Ethnopharmacological and biochemical evidence support the anticarcinogenic role of marjoram, thyme, and persimmon. Numerous phytochemicals contained in these herbs' extracts, like terpenes and flavonoids, possess remarkable potential to effectively treat breast cancer. Discussion: The phytochemicals contained in the reviewed nutraceuticals target the main cellular pathways involved in cell growth and disrupted in carcinogenesis, such as Nf-κB, MAPK/p38, TNF-α/IL-1β, and PI3K/Akt. The mechanisms of action of these compounds can successfully limit the abnormal growth and proliferation of cancerous breast cells. Conclusions: The potential use of the phytochemicals discussed in this review, either alone or in combination, may offer a valid alternative to chemotherapy against breast cancer with virtually no adverse effects, and further research on these molecules may lead to the identification of additional chemo-preventative and chemotherapeutic candidates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Water scarcity is a principal limitation for production in arid and semi-arid regions. Biochar increases the water-holding capacity of the soil in drought-stress conditions. To investigate the effect of biochar and planting patterns on the physiological, biochemical, and thyme (Thymus vulgaris L. (essential oil traits, an experiment was carried out as a factorial split-plot based on a randomized complete block design for two crop years (2017-2019). The findings revealed that furrow irrigation treatments, both fixed and variable, decreased the flowering branches' yield, relative water content, total chlorophyll, Chlorophyll a, and thymol percentage. Instead the essential oil yield, proline content, soluble sugar content, chlorophyll b, and carvacrol under these treatments increased. The decrease in flowering branches yield and the relative water content in variable alternate furrow irrigation was lower compared to fixed alternate furrow irrigation. Biochar application reduced the effects of drought stress caused by variable alternate furrow irrigation and fixed alternate furrow irrigation treatments but had no significant impact on chlorophyll b, thymol percentage, and total chlorophyll. The highest carvacrol and thymol percentages were obtained in fixed alternate furrow irrigation, variable alternate furrow irrigation treatments, and irrigation of all furrows, respectively. The planting pattern did not affect flowering branch yield, relative water content, soluble sugars content, and proline content. The highest essential oil yield (24.73 kg/ha) was obtained in the treatment combination of variable alternate furrow irrigation, biochar application, and Planting double rows of thyme on the ridge. The study recommended that farmers must observe alternate furrow irrigation methods and biochar application (amount 8 t/ha) as a better option in the limited water environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In recent years, significant resistance of microorganisms to antibiotics has been observed. A biofilm is a structure that significantly aids the survival of the microbial population and also significantly affects its resistance. Methods: Thyme and clove essential oils (EOs) were subjected to chemical analysis using gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and gas chromatography with a flame ionization detector (GC-FID). Furthermore, the antimicrobial effect of these EOs was tested in both the liquid and vapor phases using the volatilization method. The effect of the EOs on growth parameters was monitored using an RTS-8 bioreactor. However, the effect of the EOs on the biofilm formation of commonly occurring bacteria with pathogenic potential was also monitored, but for less described and yet clinically important strains of Arcobacter spp. Results: In total, 37 and 28 compounds were identified in the thyme and clove EO samples, respectively. The most common were terpenes and also derivatives of phenolic substances. Both EOs exhibited antimicrobial activity in the liquid and/or vapor phase against at least some strains. The determined antimicrobial activity of thyme and clove oil was in the range of 32–1024 µg/mL in the liquid phase and 512–1024 µg/mL in the vapor phase, respectively. The results of the antimicrobial effect are also supported by similar conclusions from monitoring growth curves using the RTS bioreactor. The effect of EOs on biofilm formation differed between strains. Biofilm formation of Pseudomonas aeruginosa was completely suppressed in an environment with a thyme EO concentration of 1024 µg/mL. On the other hand, increased biofilm formation was found, e.g., in an environment of low concentration (1–32 µg/mL). Conclusions: The potential of using natural matrices as antimicrobials or preservatives is evident. The effect of these EOs on biofilm formation, especially Arcobacter strains, is described for the first time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Introduction Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a prominent multidrug-resistant and biofilm-forming bacteria. Mono-floral honey, enriched with a variety of biological compounds, can be categorized as medical-grade honey due to its notable pharmacological benefits. In this study, two types of Iranian honey were thoroughly characterized, and the antimicrobial and anti-biofilm properties were examined against three clinical strains of multidrug-resistant P. aeruginosa. Methods Citrus and Thyme honey from Alborz were selected based on physicochemical, phytochemical, and melissopalynological tests conducted from a medical perspective. The antibacterial activity of the honey samples against three clinical strains of multidrug-resistant P. aeruginosa isolated from wound infections was evaluated using both the well-diffusion and broth microdilution methods. Additionally, an antibiofilm assay was performed using the crystal violet method in microplates. Results Both medical grade honey samples exhibited considerable antibacterial activity against the three P. aeruginosa isolates at 75–100% v/v concentrations with inhibition zones measuring between 15 and 30 mm. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and the minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) values for both types of honey were 6.25% v/v (final concentration). The antibiofilm assay indicated that both types of honey demonstrated varying levels of antibiofilm activity. Citrus honey at 9% concentration was the most effective, showing an average inhibition rate of 59%, while Citrus honey at 2.3% final concentration exhibited the least effectiveness with an average inhibition rate of 23%. Discussion A thorough analysis of the honeys studied confirmed their authenticity and the presence of medicinal compounds. The results of honey tests correspond to the normal range (natural Honey) in the Council of the European Union. Based on the evaluation and compliance with the medical grade criteria including authenticity, health, qualities well botanical origin mentioned honey is classified in medical grade. The antibacterial results indicated that both Thyme and Citrus honeys effectively inhibit the growth and biofilm formation of P. aeruginosa. Therefore, these honeys may serve as natural and safe alternatives or adjuncts to conventional antibiotic therapy for wound healing and infection management.

The drying of medicinal and aromatic plants (MAPs) is one of the main preservation methods for these products that can prolong their shelf life, if performed properly. The current study aimed to examine the effects of different drying conditions (sun, shade, and oven drying at 42 °C) on the quality characteristics of Thymus capitatus, Mentha piperita, and Sideritis cypria; their essential oil (EO) yield; and their biological properties (antioxidant and antibacterial activities). According to the results of the current study, oven drying resulted in faster moisture loss for all investigated species and slightly darker products. For T. capitatus, sun drying resulted in higher EO carvacrol content, whereas EOs obtained from shade and oven drying (at 42 °C) presented high total phenolic content and great antimicrobial activity. For M. piperita, shade drying resulted in a higher EO yield and higher iso-menthone content, whilst the EO obtained from oven-dried mint plants presented great antibacterial activity against the investigated foodborne pathogens. S. cypria plants dried in an air-ventilated oven produced an EO rich in β-caryophyllene and α-pinene, which also presented great antioxidant and antibacterial activity. The findings of the current study indicate that traditional drying methods, such as sun and shade, can result in good-quality dried MAPs that can yield EOs with significant biological activities, along with minimum energy consumption and lower carbon dioxide production (lower environmental carbon footprint), as opposed to oven drying. However, the drying-process duration could be a limitation at the industrial scale. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The cotton bollworm, Helicoverpa armigera (Hübner), is one of the important insect pests of cotton throughout the world. Considering the adverse effects of chemical pesticides, it is necessary to find eco-friendly substitute agents for managing insect pests, including H. armigera. Plant-derived insecticides have been introduced as suitable candidates to replace detrimental synthetic chemicals. In this study, the toxicities of water, ethanol, and n-hexane extracts of eucalyptus and thyme, as well as their wettable powder formulations, against H. armigera larvae were investigated. The treated larvae represented different degrees of abnormalities, such as larva-pupa intermediate and pupa-adult stages in their different ages until they turned into pupae and completed the breeding cycle. The results showed that the considered formulations of extract of n-hexane and ethanol, and concentrations had significant effects on the mortality rates of the larvae (P≤0.05) but the interaction of extracts and concentrations was not significant. The mortality rates were enhanced by increasing the tested concentrations. The LC50 values (lethal concentrations to kill 50% of the tested insects) were 343.758% (water), 10.171% and 23.264% (ethanol), and 0.404% and 0.490% (n-hexane) for the eucalyptus and thyme extracts within 24 hours, respectively, indicating higher toxicities of n-hexane extracts. The LC50 values of wettable powder formulations of the thyme and eucalyptus extracts were 120.68% and 177.75% (water) and 36.17% and 74.65% (ethanol), respectively, which represented the greater toxicities of these types of formulations. Therefore, the wettable powder formulations of ethanol and water extracts of thyme were more toxic than their solution formulations. Based on the results of this study, wettable powder formulation of eucalyptus and thyme extracts had promising potential for H. armigera management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To increase biodiversity in tomato cultivation, two herbal aromatic plants, thyme (Thymus vulgaris) and basil (Ocimum basilicum L.), were introduced as companion plants. Their role was to improve crop plant growth and stress resistance. Moreover, the effect of the soil application of Trichoderma microbial preparations on tomato growth parameters and yield, in combination with companion plants, was studied. Ligno-cellulose multi-layer microcapsules with Trichoderma atroviride TRS14 spores (MIC14) and the commercial preparation Trianum G (TG) were used as microbial preparations. This experiment was carried out in a certified organic field. Tomato plants were intercropped with thyme or basil in the arrangement of two tomato rows alternating with one herbal row. In all intercropping arrangements and in the control (tomato plants grown without herbs), subplots were sectioned. The soil in the subplots was amended with the MIC14 and TG preparations used at a concentration of 104 spores g−1 of the soil and planted with tomato transplants. No control measures were applied during tomato growing, and the plants were naturally infected with late blight. Tomato plant growth parameters and yield were assessed, and late blight severity was monitored. The degree of soil colonization by Trichoderma fungi and the effect of these applications on soil microbial activity and biodiversity (dehydrogenases activity, EcoPlates AWCD, and Shannon index) were evaluated. The results clearly showed a significant influence of thyme and basil on tomato growth and yield in organic production. The cultivation of thyme adjacent to tomatoes had a beneficial effect on the development of the root system and the number of flowers and fruits on the crop plants. Basil, on the other hand, clearly decreased tomato yield and adversely affected the effect of Trichoderma applications by reducing root system development. Moreover, basil as a companion plant increased late blight symptoms. Both Trichoderma strains colonized soil, but they had no significant effect on the microbial activity or metabolic potential measured on the EcoPlates with the use of the BIOLOG system. However, a decrease in dehydrogenases activity was noted. In organic cultivation, the Trichoderma preparations used had no significant effect on tomato yield, opposite to its increase in integrated tomato production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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The article focuses on the anticholinesterase and antioxidant activities of various Thymus caramanicus populations. Topics include the evaluation of total phenolic and flavonoid contents, the assessment of enzyme inhibition by hydroethanolic extracts, and the potential for developing therapeutic compounds for Alzheimer's disease.

The aim of this study was to determine the chemical composition and antibacterial activity of essential oils (EOs) extracted from local plant by steam distillation from the aerial parts (fresh – dried) of rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis L.), pistachio (Pistacia lentiscus L.) and thyme (Thymus vulgaris L.). Monoterpenes were identified by GC-MS as main compounds, namely 1,8-cineole (34.5–35 %), α-pinene (36.2–36.6 %) and thymol (42.2–42.1 %). Our results showed that EOs tested had antibacterial effects at different levels, with MICs ranging from 1.56 to 6.25 mg.mL−1. Fresh rosemary EO was synergistic against Pseudomonas aeruginosa ATCC 27,853 when combined with dried rosemary EO and fresh pistachio EO, with MICs half those of oils alone (from 6.25 to 3.12 mg.mL−1). In addition, antagonistic, additive and indifferent effects were recorded at 1 %, 3 % and 93 %, respectively. Our findings provide new data on antimicrobial potential of local plants and possibilities of their use as food preservatives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current study aims to ascertain the chemical composition and biological activities of thyme leaves essential oil (TEO), with an emphasis on its in silico molecular docking studies targeting the antibacterial properties of its constituents. TEO was extracted from dried leaves using a standardized procedure, with a yield of 0.75%. The chemical constituents of TEO were identified using Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS). The primary compounds detected included carvacrol, o-acetyl thymol, α-pinene, and spathulenol. Subsequently, the antioxidant activity of the isolated oil was measured, and the results showed that the total phenolic contents (TPC) was 4.69 ± 0.17 GAE mg/100 g, the total flavonoid contents (TFC) was 1.45 ± 0.04 CE mg/100 g, the ferric reducing antioxidant potential (FRAP) ranged from 0.07-0.81, and the DPPH radical scavenging activity was 42.88-86.94%. TEO exhibited notable antibacterial activity against certain strains of Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. The molecular docking studies were then conducted to further investigate the interaction of TEO's potent metabolites with key bacterial enzymes, identifying spathulenol and caryophyllene as the best-interacting ligands. Hemolytic activity tests of TEO indicated negligible cytotoxic effects. These findings support that TEO holds great potential for the development of functional food and nutra-pharmaceuticals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Thyme is widely recognized for its antimicrobial properties, attributed to the effective compounds present in its extract that inhibit and destroy pathogenic bacteria. Objectives: This study explores the impact of combining thyme extract with biosurfactants on pathogenic bacteria and biofilm. The biosurfactants 12B and SG have inherent antimicrobial effects, and their combination with thyme extract demonstrated synergistic effects. Methods: The experiments involved preparing methanolic thyme extract in combination with biosurfactants 12B and SG. Disk diffusion and well diffusion tests were conducted to assess the antimicrobial activity of this combination. The inhibition zones for Acinetobacter baumannii, Bacillus cereus, Escherichia coli, and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) were measured. Further tests determined the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) for these bacteria. To evaluate synergistic effects, the fractional inhibitory concentration (FIC) and fractional inhibitory concentration index (FICI) were calculated. Results: The anti-biofilm effects of the biosurfactants combined with thyme extract were analyzed by testing biofilm formation inhibition, biofilm destruction, and inhibition of dehydrogenase enzyme activity within the biofilm. Biofilm assays were conducted using microplates, with readings taken at 490 nm using an ELISA reader. Conclusions: The biofilm tests demonstrated the effectiveness of thyme extract combined with biosurfactants. The results indicated that this combination exhibits antibacterial, anti-biofilm, and synergistic effects, making it effective against both antibiotic-resistant and non-resistant pathogenic bacteria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates the effects of thyme and rosemary dried herbs, as well as thyme and rosemary essential oils (1%, w/v), on the microbiological quality of vacuum-packed rainbow trout meat stored under refrigerated conditions (4 ± 1 °C) for 7 days. The microbiological quality of meat was monitored based on total viable counts, coliform bacteria, and lactic acid bacteria counts over a designated storage period (on the 0th, 1st, 3rd, 5th and 7th day of storage). As expected, the highest total viable counts were observed on the 7th day of storage in the untreated aerobically packed control group reaching 5.723 ± 0.021 CFU.g-1. The tested treatments showed potential in reducing the growth of bacteria in rainbow trout meat samples. Across all bacterial groups under investigation, rosemary essential oil appears to have the most advantageous effect in inhibiting bacterial growth compared to other tested treatments. Cultivated isolates were identified by MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry and assigned to 33 species belonging to 14 families. The most prevalent family was Enterobacteriaceae (18.99%), and the most abundant species found in samples was Hafnia alvei (8.86%). Our findings suggest the potential of using thyme and rosemary in both essential oil and dried forms as natural preservatives to enhance the microbiological quality and longevity of refrigerated rainbow trout meat. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The present study aimed to investigate the effect of eight weeks of exhaustive interval training combined with thyme extract supplementation on the expression of apoptosis markers Bax and P53 in liver tissue and insulin resistance in male rats with type 2 diabetes. Methods and Materials: The study population consisted of 36 male Wistar rats. After 20 weeks of a high-fat diet and intraperitoneal injection of 25 mg/kg STZ, the rats developed diabetes. A fasting blood glucose level between 150 to 400 mg/dL indicated type 2 diabetes. The diabetic rats were then divided into four groups: control, interval training, thyme extract, and interval training-thyme extract groups. The exercise protocol consisted of eight weeks of interval training, five sessions per week, with 2-minute high-intensity intervals (2 to 8 intervals) at 80-90% VO2max and 1-minute rest intervals at 50-56% VO2max. Thyme extract was administered at a dose of 200 mg/kg dissolved in distilled water, given orally via gavage 5 days per week before exercise. Findings: Two-way ANOVA analysis showed that the gene expression of apoptosis markers Bax and P53 in liver tissue significantly increased in the interval training and thyme extract groups compared to the diabetic control group. Moreover, the expression of these markers was significantly higher in the thyme extract group compared to the control group. However, the expression of Bax and P53 in liver tissue in the interval training and combined interval training-thyme extract groups showed a non-significant increase compared to the control group. Additionally, findings indicated an improvement in insulin resistance and glucose levels in the interval training and combined interval training-thyme extract groups, with significant results observed in the interval training group. Conclusion: It appears that high-intensity interval training and thyme extract consumption may reduce the expression of apoptotic markers Bax and P53 in liver tissue and improve liver health in Wistar rats. Consequently, researchers may utilize these findings to assess improvements in the condition of individuals with type 2 diabetes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study focused on the evaluation of the phytotoxic activity of four essential oils (EOs) from the Mediterranean species of Thymus sp. pl., namely Thymus algeriensis Boiss. et Reut., T. ciliatus Desf. subspecies coloratus (Boiss. et Reut.) Batt., T. vulgaris L. ecotype Fasano and T. vulgaris cultivar L. Varico 3, to identify new biomolecules with herbicide potential. The chemical characterization of EOs was performed by GC-MS. The evaluation of the phytotoxicity of the EOs was conducted under in vitro conditions, and the inhibition of germination and seedling growth of Lolium perenne L. and Amaranthus retroflexus L. were assessed. Five concentrations (100, 250, 500, 750 and 1000 µL/100 mL) were considered. Phytochemical analysis revealed a great diversity of compounds. T. algeriensis and T. ciliatus EOs were characterized by the absence of carvacrol and a low content of thymol in T. ciliatus. On the contrary, T. vulgaris ecotype Fasano and T. vulgaris cultivar Varico 3 were characterized by an important content of p-cymene, thymol and carvacrol. All the EOs expressed a potent phytotoxic activity against the tested species. The total inhibition of seed germination and seedling growth were recorded for the highest concentrations of all the EOs. T. vulgaris ecotype Fasano expressed the most effective activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plant polyphenols have drawn increasing attention due to their potent antioxidant properties and their marked effects in the prevention of various oxidative stress associated diseases. In this work, thyme (Thymus vulgaris L.) leave water extract (TLE) was investigated for total phenolic compound total flavonoid, and the cytotoxic effect of studied extracts against human cell lines HCT 116 and PC3 occurred. The results showed that the extract had high content of these parameters. Scavenging activity of thyme (Thymus vulgaris L.) leaves water extract against DPPH and β-Carotene free radicals were determined and the results showed that TLE were characterized by a high content of antioxidants compound. Data showed that water extract of thyme (TLE) possessed good potent inhibitory activities against HCT 116, and PC3 cell lines. The anticancer effect of water extract of thyme (TLE) encourages the use of it as protective agents for normal cell line. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present work, methanolic extracts from thyme and dittany plants were prepared and characterized in terms of their polyphenolic content through analytical and spectrophotometric techniques. Rosmarinic acid, thymol and carvacrol were found to be the main components of the extracts, which were further biologically assessed for their antioxidant, anti-tyrosinase, anti-lipase and antibacterial activity against Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria. As found, thyme extracts exhibited superior antioxidant activity (SC50 at 33.9 μg mL−1), while dittany extracts inhibited the microbial growth to a great extent against Bacillus subtilis strain (MIC at 0.5 mg mL−1) and E. coli strain (MIC at 2 mg mL−1). Furthermore, the thyme extract was proven to strongly inhibit the activity of lipase from Candida rugosa (IC50 at 63.9 μg mL−1), comparable to the standard inhibitor orlistat, while its inhibitory effect against mushroom tyrosinase was weak. On the other hand, the dittany extract presented an inhibitory effect against the tested lipase (IC50 over 500 μg mL−1) and an activation effect against tyrosinase (at concentrations > 500 μg mL−1). Additionally, molecular docking studies of the main compounds of the extracts showed that rosmarinic acid plays a crucial role on the inhibitory activity of the extracts against lipase, while thymol has a stronger effect on inhibiting tyrosinase. Furthermore, both extracts were employed in the preparation of gelatin-deep eutectic solvent (DES) hydrogels that were further studied for their antioxidant and antibacterial activity. The results showed that the incorporation of the extracts offered antibacterial properties to the biopolymer-based hydrogels and enhanced the antioxidant activity of gelatin up to 85%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) is widely used in biomedical applications due to its biocompatibility and flexibility but faces challenges due to its hydrophobicity and limited mechanical strength. This study explores the incorporation of thyme (Thymus vulgaris L.) into PDMS to enhance its properties for wound dressing applications. PDMS composites containing 2.5 wt.% and 5 wt.% of thyme were prepared and evaluated for physical, chemical, mechanical, and biological properties. Scanning electron microscopy, contact angle measurements, absorption tests, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, differential scanning calorimetry, hardness, tensile testing, antibacterial activity, and cell viability assays were conducted. Thyme integration improved mechanical properties with increased absorption and preserved hydrophobicity. FTIR and DSC analyses indicated minimally altered crystallinity and chemical interactions. Hardness decreased with higher thyme content due to terpene-induced polymerization inhibition. Tensile testing showed reduced stress at break but increased elongation, suitable for wound dressings. Enhanced antibacterial activity was observed, with composites meeting bacteriostatic standards. Cell viability exceeded 70%, with optimal results at 2.5 wt.% thyme, attributed to cytokine-inducing compounds. Thyme-incorporated PDMS composites exhibit improved antibacterial and mechanical properties, demonstrating the potential for advanced wound dressings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Faculty of Pharmacy of Ankara University / Ankara Üniversitesi Eczacilik Fakültesi Dergisi is the property of Ankara University and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

ABSTRACT Background The use of commercially extracted phytogenic compounds to maintain poultry health and productivity in the absence of in‐feed antibiotics is prohibitively costly in developing countries. Objectives The goal of the study is to determine the effect of dietary supplementation with Thymus schimperi leaf meal (TLM) on production performance, egg quality and haemato‐biochemical parameters of Bovan brown layers. Methods A total of 96 laying hens at 25 weeks of age were randomly assigned to 4 treatments with 6 replications each. The treatments include the control (standard commercial laying diet), TLM1.5 (control + 1.5% TLM), TLM2.5 (control + 2.5% TLM) and TLM3.5 (control + 3.5% TLM). Egg production, feed intake and feed conversion ratio were recorded for each replicate. Two eggs per replication were used to measure internal and external egg quality traits on a monthly basis. At the end of the trial, blood samples were collected from 2 birds/replicate for the determination of albumin, uric acid, aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, luteinizing hormone, prolactin and progesterone. Results All blood parameters were within the normal ranges of the breed. Egg production, feed conversion ratio, internal egg quality traits and external egg quality traits of hens fed diets containing 2.5% TLM were significantly higher than the control. Furthermore, diets containing 2.5% TLM led to a significantly reduced feed conversion ratio compared to all other dietary treatments. Conclusions In conclusion, 2.5% TML is recommended to improve egg production and egg quality without adverse effect on hen health.

Thyme (Thymus vulgaris) is often used thanks to its anti-infectious properties to treat seasonal influenza. Some patients use it in conjunction with their conventional treatment, which can expose them to adverse effects or interactions. A case of probable pharmacokinetic interaction of levothyroxine and thyme is described. This is a case of 52-year-old woman admitted to the toxicology department in January 2024 after a phytovigilance questionnaire. The patient had a treatment for hypothyroidism consisting in levothyroxine sodium with a daily dose of 150 µg, but she showed palpitations following the taking of a T. vulgaris tea to treat her seasonal flu. She reported that the symptoms disappeared by reducing the doses of T. vulgaris. The score of the probability scale of the interaction was 6, so a probable interaction may occur in patients with thyroid disorders and taking levothyroxine sodium concomitantly with T. vulgaris.

Abstract Background Although synthetic preservatives and antioxidants may have high antimicrobial and antioxidant activity, they are usually associated with adverse effects on human health. Currently, there is a growing interest in natural antimicrobial and antioxidant agents. This study aimed to evaluate the antimicrobial activity of two medicinal plant extracts and one active compound. Olive leaf extracts (0.2, 0.3, and 0.4% w/v), oleuropein (0.2, 0.4, and 0.6% w/v), thyme oil (0.1%), and oleuropein in combination with thyme oil (0.4% w/v and 0.1% v/v) were used against three bacterial strains (Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Staphylococcus aureus) and two fungal strains (Candida albicans and Aspergillus niger). Results The use of oleuropein resulted in complete antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Escherichia coli. In this context, a reduction of 7 logs was achieved during the storage period (4 weeks). Oleuropein showed no fungal activity at low concentrations (0.2%), but Aspergillus niger was reduced by 2.35 logs at higher concentrations (0.6% w/v). Similar antibacterial and antifungal properties were observed for the olive leaf extracts. Oleuropein at a concentration of 0.4 w/v and a mixture of oleuropein and thyme at concentrations of 0.4 and 0.1 (v/v) showed strong antimicrobial activity against the studied microorganisms. Conclusion Olive leaf extract, thyme oil, and oleuropein have strong antibacterial and weak antifungal properties. There was a good synergistic effect between oleuropein and thymol.

Abstract This study was conducted to evaluate the effects of thyme, ginger, and their nano-particles, as alternatives to antibiotic growth promotors (AGP), on productive performance, carcass traits, meat quality and gut health of broiler chickens. A total of 270 one-day-old broiler chicks were randomly distributed into 6 groups, each consisting of 3 replicates (n = 15 chicks/replicate). The birds in group 1 were fed the control diet which contained neither antibiotic growth promotors nor phytogenic feed additives (PFA). Birds in group 2 were fed diets containing 0.05% of AGP (Bacitracin methylene disalicylate). Chicks in group 3 and 4 were fed diets supplemented with 1.0% of thyme and ginger, respectively, whereas birds in group 5 and 6 were offered diets including 0.10% of nano-thyme and nano-ginger, respectively. The experiment lasted for 35 days. It was found that thyme and ginger with their nano-products, like the antibiotic, improved the body weight, weight gain and feed conversion rate of birds. The effect of ginger and nano-ginger on body weight and weight gain was greater than other treatments. During the overall feeding period, the feed cost of production was the highest in antibiotic group, but was the lowest in ginger and nano-ginger treatments. There was no effect of dietary treatments on carcass yield or organs weight except bursa of Fabricius and abdominal fat. Thyme, ginger and their nano-composites increased the weight of bursa and reduced the abdominal fat amount. The phytogenic additives and their nano-particles improved the colour, water holding capacity, and flavor of meat. Moreover, these additives reduced the total intestinal bacterial count as well as the total aerobic mesophilic count of meat. The effect of PFA and their nano-particles on the bacterial count was similar to that of antibiotic. In conclusion, thyme and ginger with their nano- particles can be considered as promising agents in feeding of broilers to improve the growth performance, gut health and meat quality. Moreover, these additives can be used as alternatives to AGP to overcome its health hazards and the high cost. The nanotechnology of herbal plants enables them to be added in smaller amounts in poultry diets with producing the same effect of raw ingredients, and this could be due to the higher bioavailability.

Featured Application: Considering the weaker representation of white wine vinegar on the global market, its flavoring expands the range of products used in the culinary arts and gives additional value to the initial product. Rosemary, thyme, and elderflower contribute to the specific aromaticity of flavored white wine vinegar as well as its nutraceutical value. Due to the small amount of plant material needed for flavoring, the production of flavored vinegar could be economically viable. The food industry is developing intensively, and products that, with their characteristics, enrich the food taste and aroma are widely used in the culinary arts. White wine vinegar is often used as a food condiment and as dressing in salads. This research aims to explore the impact of the maceration of selected aromatic plants on the organoleptic properties, bioactive compounds, and sensory profile of white wine vinegar. The plants selected for white wine (cv 'Malvazija istarska') vinegar aromatization were rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis L.) and thyme (Thymus serpyllum L.) dried leaves and black elder (Sambucus nigra L. ssp. nigra) flowers (elderflowers). Vinegar flavored with rosemary had more pronounced pinewood and herbal aromas, while spicy aromas dominated the vinegar with thyme. The elderflower-flavored vinegar, on the other hand, was characterized by a floral and fruity aroma. Among the analyzed vinegars, white wine vinegar flavored with elderflower had the highest polyphenolic content. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Although synthetic preservatives and antioxidants may have high antimicrobial and antioxidant activity, they are usually associated with adverse effects on human health. Currently, there is a growing interest in natural antimicrobial and antioxidant agents. This study aimed to evaluate the antimicrobial activity of two medicinal plant extracts and one active compound. Olive leaf extracts (0.2, 0.3, and 0.4% w/v), oleuropein (0.2, 0.4, and 0.6% w/v), thyme oil (0.1%), and oleuropein in combination with thyme oil (0.4% w/v and 0.1% v/v) were used against three bacterial strains (Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Staphylococcus aureus) and two fungal strains (Candida albicans and Aspergillus niger). Results: The use of oleuropein resulted in complete antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Escherichia coli. In this context, a reduction of 7 logs was achieved during the storage period (4 weeks). Oleuropein showed no fungal activity at low concentrations (0.2%), but Aspergillus niger was reduced by 2.35 logs at higher concentrations (0.6% w/v). Similar antibacterial and antifungal properties were observed for the olive leaf extracts. Oleuropein at a concentration of 0.4 w/v and a mixture of oleuropein and thyme at concentrations of 0.4 and 0.1 (v/v) showed strong antimicrobial activity against the studied microorganisms. Conclusion: Olive leaf extract, thyme oil, and oleuropein have strong antibacterial and weak antifungal properties. There was a good synergistic effect between oleuropein and thymol. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Inactivity and sedentary are of the most important health problems that can affect serum proteins. The present research was conducted with aim to investigate the effect of eight weeks of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) along with the consumption of thyme suplementation on the serum levels of adropin and Tumour Necrosis Factor alpha (TNF-a) in sedentary young girls. Methods: In this quasi-experimental study conducted in 2023, 48 sedentary young girls with mean age of 20.00±1.61 years were randomly divided into four groups: HIIT, thyme, HIIT+thyme and control. Venous blood was taken in the pre-test and post-test stages. Serum levels of adropin and TNF-a were analyzed using specific ELISA kits. The data was analyzed by SPSS statistical software (version 22) using ANOVA and paired t tests. P<0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: There was no significant difference between the studied groups in the serum level of adropin before the test (P=0.501) and after the test (P=0.732), and the changes in adropin were not significant in the studied groups (P>0.05). A significant decrease in TNF-a values was observed in the thyme (P=0.001) and HIIT thyme groups (P=0.014) after the interventions, while a significant increase in TNF-a values was observed in the HIIT group (P=0.007). Conclusion: Performing HIIT exercises increases TNF-a levels and consuming thyme supplements decreases it and in cases where they are used at the same time, the effect of thyme is still stronger. Adropin levels were not affected by exercise or thyme supplementation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OBJECTIVES. In this paper, we reviewed cough and herbal therapies. MATERIAL AND METHODS. Research methods included searching online databases such as Google, Google Scholar, ProQuest Central, and PubMed at Kirikkale University. We used terms like "cough", "herbal", "reflex", "Primula veris", "Primula elatior", "Thymus vulgaris", "Althea Officinalis", and "Mentha piperita" to find related articles. RESULTS. Coughing is a reflex that serves a legitimate physiological purpose by expelling fluids and debris from the lungs. Herbal teas and preparations with antioxidant and expectorant properties are made from medicinal herbs like Primula veris and Primula elatior. The phenolic monoterpene thymol, one of the primary components of thyme oil, is found primarily in thyme plants. Both thymol and thyme essential oil have lengthy histories of usage in conventional medicine, particularly for their upper respiratory system-targeted expectorant, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, antibacterial, and antiseptic properties. Historically, people have turned to the plant Althaea officinalis for help with treating respiratory issues, like cough. Officinalis extracts alone for dry cough therapy, while A. officinalis was more effective when combined with Zataria multiflora, Zingiber officinale, or Helix hedera. Furthermore, all types of coughs benefited from officinalis. One of the most popular types of herbal tea, known as a tisane, is peppermint, or Mentha piperita. Peppermint essential oil and tea made from the plant's leaves have long histories of usage in alternative medicine. Some studies have found that peppermint may have antiallergenic properties in addition to its antibacterial, antiviral, antioxidant, and anticancer properties. CONCLUSION. Cough is a persistent symptom of many acute and chronic illnesses. Primula veris, Thymus vulgaris, Althaea Officinalis, and Mentha piperita are some herbs used to treat cough. Cough patients can supplement their standard medical care with herbal remedies that contain these compounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was conducted to evaluate the effects of thyme, ginger, and their nano-particles, as alternatives to antibiotic growth promotors (AGP), on productive performance, carcass traits, meat quality and gut health of broiler chickens. A total of 270 one-day-old broiler chicks were randomly distributed into 6 groups, each consisting of 3 replicates (n = 15 chicks/replicate). The birds in group 1 were fed the control diet which contained neither antibiotic growth promotors nor phytogenic feed additives (PFA). Birds in group 2 were fed diets containing 0.05% of AGP (Bacitracin methylene disalicylate). Chicks in group 3 and 4 were fed diets supplemented with 1.0% of thyme and ginger, respectively, whereas birds in group 5 and 6 were offered diets including 0.10% of nano-thyme and nano-ginger, respectively. The experiment lasted for 35 days. It was found that thyme and ginger with their nano-products, like the antibiotic, improved the body weight, weight gain and feed conversion rate of birds. The effect of ginger and nano-ginger on body weight and weight gain was greater than other treatments. During the overall feeding period, the feed cost of production was the highest in antibiotic group, but was the lowest in ginger and nano-ginger treatments. There was no effect of dietary treatments on carcass yield or organs weight except bursa of Fabricius and abdominal fat. Thyme, ginger and their nano-composites increased the weight of bursa and reduced the abdominal fat amount. The phytogenic additives and their nano-particles improved the colour, water holding capacity, and flavor of meat. Moreover, these additives reduced the total intestinal bacterial count as well as the total aerobic mesophilic count of meat. The effect of PFA and their nano-particles on the bacterial count was similar to that of antibiotic. In conclusion, thyme and ginger with their nano- particles can be considered as promising agents in feeding of broilers to improve the growth performance, gut health and meat quality. Moreover, these additives can be used as alternatives to AGP to overcome its health hazards and the high cost. The nanotechnology of herbal plants enables them to be added in smaller amounts in poultry diets with producing the same effect of raw ingredients, and this could be due to the higher bioavailability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was performed to check the effect of different essential oils on chitosan and gelatin-based antimicrobial films. Films prepared from biopolymers contain better mechanical strength but lack in moisture barrier properties. In order to increase the moisture barrier properties of chitosan and gelatin-based films in the current research work, different essential oils, i.e., thyme, cinnamon, basil, ginger, and cumin, at varying concentrations (1.0, 1.5, and 2.0%) were incorporated. Moreover, the concentrations of glycerol (plasticizer) and emulsifier (Tween 20) were kept constant to maintain homogeneity in the research. Antimicrobial films composed of gelatin and chitosan infused with essential oils were evaluated for their physicochemical (emulsion stability, particle size, and viscosity), FT-IR, microstructural (scanning electron microscopy), moisture barrier (water vapor permeability), and antimicrobial properties (E. coli, Salmonella, and S. aureus). Study outcomes elucidated significant variations (p < 0.05) as the concentration of essential oil was increased in the film solutions. An increased concentration of essential oil (2.0%) significantly enhanced the moisture barrier properties (1.12 ± 0.03 g.mm/kPa.h.m2). Nevertheless, the tensile strength decreased (38.60 ± 1.4 to 31.50 ± 1.5 MPa) from 1 to 2%. The increase in essential oil concentration in the emulsion-based films also influenced their physicochemical characteristics, such as droplet size, viscosity, and emulsion stability. At lower concentrations (1.0%), films exhibited a uniform microstructure but lacked moisture barrier properties. Antimicrobial properties against E. coli, Salmonella, and S. aureus showed an increased inhibition effect as the concentration of essential oil was increased. Of the essential oil-based films, ginger- and basil-based films showed greater inhibition effects as compared to the other essential oils. Overall, antimicrobial films containing a 1.5% concentration of ginger and basil oil showed better results as compared to the other treatments for mechanical, moisture barrier, and antimicrobial properties, while films with a 2.0% oil concentration showed better antimicrobial and moisture barrier properties but lacked in mechanical properties. Essential oil-based antimicrobial films have prospective applications in foods, specifically in fresh and processed food items such as seafood, meat, chicken, and sausages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Featured Application: The cross-disciplinary investigation conducted here utilized natural green products (essential oils and plant extracts) as effective eco-friendly antifungal agents for the preservation of archaeological wooden artifacts. The biodeterioration of wooden cultural heritage is a severe problem worldwide and fungi are the main deteriorating agents. The identification of effective natural products, safer for humans and the environment, is a current challenge. Ten deteriorated archaeological objects (a wooden statue of a seated man, an anthropoid wooden coffin with a cartonnage mummy of Nespathettawi, and a wooden box of Padimen's son), stored at the Egyptian museum in Cairo, were considered here. The wood species of the three most deteriorated objects were previously identified as Acacia nilotica, Ficus sycomorus, and Tamarix gennessarensis. Twenty-six fungal species were isolated and identified from the wooden objects and the four most frequent species belonged to the genus Aspergillus. Fourteen fungal species among those isolated showed the greatest biodeterioration activity on the experimental wood blocks of the archaeological objects. The antifungal activities of several eco-friendly plant essential oils (from cinnamon, eucalyptus, frankincense, geranium, lavender, lemongrass, menthe, rosemary, tea tree, and thyme) and plant extracts (from basil, eucalyptus, henna, melia, and teak) were tested against the fungal species with the greatest biodeterioration activity. The essential oils (Eos) were more effective than the plant extracts. Thyme EO, followed by geranium and cinnamon ones, was the most active (minimum inhibitory concentrations: 0.25–1 µL/mL). These EO; also showed inhibitory effects on the enzymatic activities (cellulase, amylase, and protease) of the four most dominant fungal species. Thymol and p-cymene were the two main components of thyme oil, while geraniol and beta-citronellol were those of geranium oil; eugenol and caryophyllene were those of the cinnamon EO. Thyme oil applied to the most deteriorated experimental aged A. nilotica wooden cubes inoculated with the four highly frequent fungal species was effective in wood preservation. Moreover, no significant interference was observed in the wood before and after thyme treatment. Thyme oil seems to be a promising eco-friendly antifungal agent for the preservation of archaeological wooden artefacts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objectives: Inactivity can reduce the serum level of some markers such as nesfatin-1 and irisin, which have positive effects on reducing inflammation and insulin resistance. Thyme is a plant whose extract has various properties, including anti- inflammatory effects. Therefore, the purpose of this research was to investigate the effect of eight weeks of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) along with thyme supplementation on the serum levels of irisin and nesfatin-1 in sedentary young girls Materials and Methods: In this quasi-experimental study, 48 young girls were randomly divided into four groups of HIIT, thyme, HIIT+thyme, and control group. Thyme supplement was taken in the form of 20 mg soft capsules, half an hour before each meal. Serum levels of nesfatin-1 and irisin were analyzed using specific ELISA kits. Data were analyzed using ANOVA and paired t statistical tests with a significance level of 0.05. Results: The serum level of irisin before the test (p=0.685) and after the test (p=0.556) was not significantly different among the studied groups. The post-test values of nesfatin-1 were significantly different among the groups (p<0.001). Intra-group evaluation showed that the changes of nesfatin-1 in the control and thyme groups were not significant (p>0.05). However, a significant increase in nesfatin-1 was observed in HIIT (p<0.001) and HIIT + thyme groups (p=0.001) after the interventions. Conclusion: The increase of nesfatin-1 was one of the favorable effects of HIIT exercises with or without thyme consumption. Irisin levels were not affected by exercise or thyme supplementation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study assessed the effects of using different levels of thyme leaves powder (TLP) supplemented in growing quails birds diets on productive performance, blood indices, carcass characteristics, antioxidant capacity, digestive enzymes, immunity, quality of quail meat and economic efficiency. A total number of 192, unsexed birds (9-day-old) were allocated into four treatments, each treatment contain six replicates of eight birds each. Birds fed a basal diet containing 24% CP with2900 Kcal M.E./ kg diet, a basal diet with 0.5%TLP; a basal diet with 1.0%TLP; a basal diet with 1.5%TLP; as control group T1, T2, T3 and T4; respectively. Results showed that TLP-diets exhibited significantly improvement in live body weight (LBW), body weight gain (BWG), growth rate (GR) and feed conversion ratio (FCR) values, without a change in feed intake (FI).As well as, there was an increased significantly in digestive enzymes (trypsin, amylase and lipase) and thyroid hormones (T3 and T4) activities, carcass and dressing percentages, antioxidant capacity (T-AOC and GSH-PX) and immune response. The treated groups enhanced the protein profile (T-protein and: Globulin (glob.), with no significant in Albumin (Alb). was found. While, significant decrease was recorded in T- cholesterol (T-chol.), triglycerides (TG) and lowdensity lipoprotein (LDL) values. Moreover, overall acceptability of quail meat and economic efficiency were improved with TLP diets. In the current study suggests that thyme leaves powder can be used as a feed supplement to improve the growth performance; some carcass traits and blood constituents; enhancing immune-antioxidant status; as well as the highest values of economic efficiency of growing Japanese quail. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The impact of livestock on climate change has prompted animal nutrition researchers to reassess ruminant feeding strategies that minimize negative repercussions on the ecosystem. Essential oils (EOs), derived from natural plant extracts, have emerged as promising substances capable of inhibiting rumen methanogenesis. This study elucidated the effects of oregano and white thyme EOs on in vivo rumen methane emissions and rumen parameters in Nellore beef cattle. In contrast to results obtained through in vitro methods, our in vivo results indicated that oregano and white thyme EOs included in the diet at 3 mL/kg dry matter were not effective in reducing rumen methane emissions. Essential oils (EOs), as rumen additives, decreased CH4 emissions in in vitro trials but results from in vivo studies are still limited. We investigated the effects of Origanum vulgare (OEO) and Thymus vulgaris (TEO) EOs on in vivo methane emissions from Nellore beef cattle. Six adult rumen-cannulated Nellore cattle were used in a double 3 × 3 Latin square design. Treatments consisted of three diets containing either 3 mL OEO per kg of concentrate, 3 mL TEO/kg of concentrate, or no EO addition. The experimental period consisted of three 21 d feeding periods and methane production was measured using the sulfur hexafluoride (SF6) technique from Day 16 to Day 21 of each feeding period. Intake, total apparent digestibility (dry matter as well as neutral and acid detergent fiber), and rumen parameters (pH, ammoniacal nitrogen concentration, and short-chain fatty acids) were also evaluated. The EOs did not decrease CH4 emissions and had no effect on rumen parameters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To investigate the effect of symbiotic microorganisms in modulating or reducing the negative effects of salinity stress on garden thyme (Thymus vulgaris L.), a greenhouse experiment was conducted in a factorial design with three replications at the Imam Khomeini International University. In this study, the effects of coexistence of Trichoderma harzianum fungus, Rhizobium lantis bacteria, and a mixture of fungus and bacteria at three salinity levels (0, 50, and 100 mM) on morphophysiological and biochemical characteristics of garden thyme were evaluated. Morphological traits assessed included root length, stem length, and wet and dry weights of roots and stems. Also, physiological and biochemical traits such as malondialdehyde content, electrolyte leakage, enzymatic antioxidants such as catalase and peroxidase, non-enzymatic antioxidants such as proline, total phenol and flavonoid content, as well as DPPH free radical scavenging activity, were evaluated. The results showed that salinity stress significantly reduced root and stem length and wet and dry weights of roots and stems in garden thyme. Furthermore, oxidative stress induced by salinity increased the activity of antioxidant enzymes (catalase and peroxidase) and total phenol and flavonoid content. On the other hand, treatment with T. harzianum fungus and R. lantis bacterium alleviated the negative effects of increased salinity concentration by improving the measured traits, including increased activity of antioxidant enzymes, decreased lipid peroxidation (MDA), and reduction in secondary metabolites, thereby reducing cell damage and promoting plant growth. In most cases, the simultaneous application of fungus and bacteria had a greater effect on the studied traits than he individual use of these symbiotic microorganisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of University of Anbar for Pure Science is the property of Republic of Iraq Ministry of Higher Education & Scientific Research (MOHESR) and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)