Two new prenylated 2-arylbenzofurans from roots of Artocarpus heterophyllus and their anti-respiratory burst activities / 中国中药杂志

Two prenylated 2-arylbenzofurans were isolated from roots of Artocarpus heterophyllus, with a combination of various chromatographic approaches, including ODS, MCI, Sephadex LH-20, and semipreparative high performance liquid chromatography(HPLC). They were identified as 5-[6-hydroxy-4-methoxy-5,7-bis(3-methylbut-2-enyl)benzofuran-2-yl]-1,3-benzenediol(1) and 5-[2H,9H-2,2,9,9-tetramethyl-furo[2,3-f]pyrano[2,3-h][1]benzopyran-6-yl]-1,3-benzenediol(2) with spectroscopic methods, such as HR-ESI-MS, IR, 1D NMR, and 2D NMR, and named artoheterins B(1) and C(2), respectively. The anti-respiratory burst activities of the two compounds were evaluated with rat polymorphonuclear neutrophils(PMNs) stimulated by phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate(PMA). The results showed that 1 and 2 exhibited significant inhibitory effect on respiratory burst of PMNs with IC_(50) values of 0.27 and 1.53 μmol·L~(-1), respectively.

Saline water and bovine biofertilizer chemically enriched on jackfruit seedlings var. soft / Água salina e biofertilizante enriquecido em mudas de jaqueira var. mole

Water scarcity and water quality is a subject of constant debate around the world, with the accumulation of salts in water and on soils causing a negative impact on food production, man and herds, especially in the arid and semi-arid regions. The use of bovine manure biofertilizers that potentiate the use of brackish water, normally restricted in agriculture due to its salinity, has been suggested for seedling formation and crop production, including jackfruit plants. An experiment was carried out from October/2012 to February/2013, in a protected environment, at Agrarian Sciences Center, Federal University of Paraíba, Areia county, Paraíba State, Brazil, to evaluate the effects of saline water and bovine biofertilizer chemically enriched with gypsum, cow's milk and molasses. The experimental design was completely randomized, with five replications of a plant, in a factorial scheme 5 × 2, corresponding at values of electrical conductivity of the water of 0.5, 1.0, 2.0, 3.0 and 4.0 dS m-1 substrate with and without bovine biofertilizer. Measurements were made of substrate salinity, height of growth, stem diameter, length mean root, leaf area, leaf area ratio, and total dry mass (root, shoots and leaves). The biofertilizer enriched with cow's milk, sugar cane molasses and agricultural gypsum increased the salinity of the soil; however, it attenuated the negative effects of the salts during establishment of jackfruit seedlings, to 95 days after emergence. All the growth variables studied were higher for seedlings developed in substrate with bovine biofertilizer chemically enriched.

A escassez e a qualidade da água são assuntos de constante debate em todo o mundo, com o acúmulo de sais na água e nos solos, causando um impacto negativo na produção de alimentos, homem e rebanhos, especialmente nas regiões áridas e semiáridas. O uso de biofertilizante de esterco bovino que possibilita o uso de água salobra, normalmente restrita à agricultura devido à salinidade, tem sido sugerido para formação demudas e produção agrícola, inclusive de jaqueira. Um experimento foi desenvolvido entre outubro de 2012 e fevereiro de 2013, em ambiente protegido, no Centro de Ciências Agrárias, da Universidade Federal da Paraíba, Areia, Paraíba, Brasil, para avaliar os efeitos da água salina e biofertilizante bovino enriquecido quimicamente com calcário, leite de vaca e melaço. O delineamento experimental foi inteiramente casualizado, com cinco repetições e uma planta, em esquema fatorial 5 × 2. Água com condutividade elétrica de 0,5, 1,0, 2,0, 3,0 e 4,0 foram aplicadas no substrato com e sem biofertilizante bovino. Foi avaliada a salinidade do substrato, crescimento em altura, diâmetro caulinar, crescimento da raiz principal, área foliar, razão de área foliar e massa seca total (raiz, parte aérea e folhas). O biofertilizante enriquecido com leite de vaca, melaço de cana-de-açúcar e gesso agrícola aumentou a salinidade do solo, no entanto, atenuou os efeitos negativos da salinidade durante o estabelecimento das mudas de jaqueira, aos 95 dias após a emergência. Todas as variáveis estudadas foram maiores nas mudas que cresceram no substrato com biofertilizante enriquecido quimicamente.

Maná sobre el océano: los viajes del árbol del pan / Manna over the ocean: the breadfruit's voyages

Ending the nineteenth century the King of England sent Captain Bligh with orders to take from Tahiti to Jamaica plants of the breadfruit tree, searching for a chip and nutritive food for his slaves in the New World. The first voyage failed because the famous Bounty's mutiny; in the second, with the Providence and the Assistance, Bligh did successfully his task and today the tree growths well all around the Caribbean Sea, being not only a popular food, but also, in hands of a good chef, a gourmet's dish.

Caracterização físico-química e microbiológica de gelado comestível com a polpa de jaca liofilizada / Physicochemical and microbiological characterization of edible ice cream with jack fruit lyophilized pulp

A liofilização é um método utilizado para a conservação das características nutricionais, protegendo a estrutura primária e contribuindo para preservar componentes como vitaminas e minerais, com redução mínima de volume, bem como manter o sabor e aroma semelhantes ao fruto in natura, como por exemplo a jaca. Diante deste contexto, este estudo almejou aplicar o processo de liofilização nos frutículos de jaca, e desenvolver formulações de sorvete com a polpa. Observou-se que os resultados das análises microbiológicas das formulações de sorvete estavam de acordo com a legislação vigente, e os teores de proteína obtiveram valores de 1,34%, 1,44% e 1,74% respectivamente para as formulações 0%, 7,40% e 19,35% de polpa liofilizada, observando-se que todas as formulações apresentaram resultados fora dos padrões permitidos pela legislação vigente que determina um mínimo de 2,5%. Conclui-se que o processo de elaboração do sorvete atendeu às boas práticas de fabricação, devido à sua inocuidade.

Synergistic Effect of Flavonoids from Artocarpus heterophyllus Heartwoods on Anticancer Activity of Cisplatin Against H460 and MCF-7 Cell Lines

Artocarpus heterophyllus has been used as traditional medicine. This plant is one of the sources of flavonoid. Flavonoid compounds possessed a wide range of biological properties including anticancer. This study was performed to investigate the cytotoxic effect of flavonoids from A. heterophyllus on H460 and MCF-7 cell lines. The interaction of flavonoids and cisplatin against tested cancer cells was also evaluated. MTT assay was used to determine the cytotoxic effect of flavonoid. Isobologram analysis was selected to evaluate the synergistic effect between flavonoid and cisplatin, their interaction was then confirmed using AO/PI staining method. Amongst of flavonoid compounds, artocarpin exhibited strong cytotoxic effect on both MCF-7 and H460 cell lines with IC₅₀ values of 12.53 µg/mL (28.73 µM) and 9.77 µg/mL (22.40 µM), respectively. This compound enhanced anticancer activity of cisplatin against H460 and MCF-7. The combination produced a synergistic effect on H460 and MCF-7 cell lines with a combination index (CI) values of 0.2 and 0.18, respectively. The AO/PI stained demonstrated that the combination of artocarpin and cisplatin caused morphological changes that indicated apoptosis. Moreover, artocarpanone also significantly increased cytotoxic effect of cisplatin compared to its single concentration with CI below than 1. This result suggested the potency of flavonoid named artocarpin to enhance the anticancer activity of cisplatin on H460 and MCF-7 cell lines.

Five New Stilbenes from the Stem Bark of Artocarpus communis

Five new prenylated stilbenes (1 – 5), along with the known compounds cudraflavone C, trans-4-isopentenyl-3,5,2′,4′-terahydroxystilbene, trans-4-(3-methyl-E-but-1-enyl)-3,5,2′,4′-tetrahydroxystilbene, pannokin G, cycloartobiloxanthone, artonin P, morusin, artocarpin, artonin E, kuwanon C, artobiloxanthone, and artoindonesianin C (6 – 17) were isolated from the stem bark of the tropical tree Artocarpus communis. The structures were established by NMR spectroscopic analysis, MS studies, and comparison with spectral data reported in the literature.

Invasion impact of Artocarpus heterophyllus LAM. (Moraceae) at the edge of an atlantic forest fragment in the city of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil / Impacto da invasão de Artocarpus heterophyllus LAM. (moraceae) na borda de um fragmento de mata atlântica na cidade do Rio de Janeiro, Brasil

The Atlantic Forest is reduced to less than 20 % of its original area, but it still protects an important biological heritage. Forest fragmentation makes the environment more susceptible to invasive species occupation. Jackfruit (Artocarpus heterophyllus) was introduced into Brazil in the seventeenth century; and in the second half of the twentieth century, its natural regeneration increased the density of individuals, compromising the recruitment of many native species. This study investigated the impact of A. heterophyllus invasion on the diversity and tree structure component at the edge of an Atlantic Forest fragment, in Rio de Janeiro (Brazil). Two transect-type plots were set up with 10 m x 100 m (1,000 m2), being divided into 10 subplots of 10 m x 10 m, with a total sampling area of 2,000 m2. Trees with a diameter at breast height (DBH) equals to or greater than 5 cm were tagged and DBH and total height measured. The following phytosociological parameters were estimated: Frequency (F), Density (D), Dominance (Do), Importance (IV) and Coverage (CV) Values. In total, 191 tree individuals were sampled. Invasive species made up more than 35% of the entire vegetation structure in the studied environment, ending in first place in terms of Importance Value (IV = 35.62%). Low floristic wealth seems to have favored the A. heterophyllus invasion process in the community, showing the need for an effective control of the species for the native genetic heritage protection.

A Mata Atlântica encontra-se reduzida a menos de 20% de sua cobertura original, mas ainda protege um importante patrimônio biológico. A fragmentação da floresta torna o ambiente mais favorável para a ocupação de espécies invasoras. A jaqueira (Artocarpus heterophyllus) foi introduzida no Brasil no século XVII e na segunda metade do século XX houve uma rápida densificação de sua regeneração natural, comprometendo o recrutamento de muitas espécies nativas. Este estudo investigou o impacto da invasão de A. heterophyllus na diversidade e na estrutura do componente arbóreo da borda de um remanescente de Mata Atlântica, no Rio de Janeiro. Duas parcelas do tipo transecto foram alocadas, com 10 m x 100 m (1.000 m2), divididas em 10 subparcelas de 10 m x 10 m, com uma amostra total de 2.000 m2. Árvores com diâmetro à altura do peito (DAP) igual ou superior a 5 cm foram marcadas e o DAP e a altura total foram medidos. Foram obtidos os seguintes parâmetros fitossociológicos: Freqüência, Densidade, Dominância, Valor de Importância (VI) e de Cobertura (VC). No total, 200 espécies de árvores foram amostradas. A invasão foi responsável por mais de 35% de toda a estrutura do ambiente estudado, obtendo o primeiro lugar em termos de Valor de Importância (VI = 35,62%). A baixa riqueza florística parece ter favorecido o processo de invasão de A. heterophyllus na comunidade, mostrando a necessidade de um controle eficaz das espécies para proteção da herança genética nativa.

A-21 day safety evaluation of methanol extract of stem bark of artocarpus altilis (Parkinson) fosberg (Moraceae) in wistar rats

Background: Medicinal plants have been used as therapeutic agents since prehistoric era. Artocarpus altilis (Breadfruit)is used in African traditional medicine to treat hypertension with scanty information on its safety profile in animals.Objectives: This study was designed to evaluate the toxicological effects of oral administration of methanol extract of Artocarpus altilis (MEAA) in rats.Materials and Methods: Thirty male Wistar rats were divided into 6 groups of 5 animals each and were treated orally with corn oil (control), 100, 250, 500, 1000 and 2000 mg/kg of MEAA for twenty one days.Results: MEAA caused insignificant (p>0.05) changes in the activities of serum alanine and aspartate aminotransferases(ALT and AST) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) relative to the control. Cardiac and hepatic AST (114.8±4.8 and(111.0±1.0) serum urea (1.1±0.2), creatinine (0.3±0.1), lactate dehydrogenase (17.3±5.8) and creatinine kinase (15.5±4.4)were significantly decreased (p<0.05) in rats treated with 2000 mg/kg of MEAA when compared to control [(134.8±5.8and 129.7±5.0), 2.94±0.3, 0.4±0.1, 38.5±13.3 and 41.3±2.9]. The MEAA significantly decreased (p<0.05) serum total cholesterol and triglyceride while high density lipoprotein- cholesterol (HDL-c) level was increased. Histopathological examination of liver, kidney and aorta slides from MEAA- treated rats showed little alteration from the control.Conclusions: The MEAA could be safe when used over a long period for therapeutic purposes

Emprego tecnológico da jaca (Artocarpus heterophyllus lam) / Technological use of jackfruit (Artocarpus heterophyllus Lam)

Almejou-se aplicar um processo de secagem na polpa de jaca (Artocarpus heterophyllus Lam.), visando seu possível aproveitamento na indústria. Foram elaboradas três soluções de calda para desidratação osmótica da jaca in natura com diferentes concentrações de sacarose: glicose (37,5%:12,5%; 37,5%:0%; 0%:22,5%), sendo a solução padronizada no teor de sólidos solúveis totais em 65 °Brix, seguida da desidratação em estufa com circulação de ar. Foram realizadas análises microbiológicas e análise sensorial nos produtos desenvolvidos (jaca desidratada e sorvete de jaca passa). A obtenção dos resultados das análises microbiológicas (Contagem de Coliformes a 35°C, Contagem de Coliformes a 45°C e Salmonella sp/25g) dos frutículos desidratados e do sorvete de polpa de jaca estavam em conformidade com a Resolução RDC nº 12, de 02 de janeiro de 2001. Os atributos como cor, aroma, sabor de jaca e doçura, encontravam-se na categoria Gostei ligeiramente, o que pode motivar pesquisadores no desenvolvimento de novos produtos, com a fruta desidratada. O estudo foi aprovado pelo Comitê de Ética em Pesquisa com Seres Humanos da UTFPR.

Simultaneous HPLC Analysis of Three Flavonoids in the Extracts of Artocarpus heterophyllus Heartwoods

A reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatographic method is described for the simultaneous determination of three antibacterial flavonoids, artocarpanone, artocarpin, and cycloartocarpin in ethyl acetate extracts from Artocarpus heterophyllus heartwoods. Separation was achieved using a TSK-gel ODS-80Tm column (5 µm, 4.6 × 150 mm) at 25℃ with a gradient elution system of methanol and water as follows: 0-8 min, 60:40; 8-27 min, 80:20; 27-35 min, 60:40, v/v, at a flow rate of 1 mL/min, and a quantitative UV detection at 285 nm. The method was validated by measuring the key parameters, including specificity, linearity, sensitivity, accuracy, repeatability and reproducibility. A high degree of specificity and sensitivity was achieved. The calibration curves for all three flavonoids showed good linearity with a coefficient of determinations (R²) of ≥ 0.9995. The recoveries of the method were from 98-104%, with good reproducibility and repeatability (RSD values of less than 2%) were also achieved. Ethyl acetate was the best solvent for extraction of these three flavonoids using the heat reflux conditions for 1 h. This optimized sample preparation and HPLC method can be practically used for a routine standardization process of the extracts from the A. heterophyllus heartwoods.

About rats and jackfruit trees: modeling the carrying capacity of a Brazilian Atlantic Forest spiny-rat Trinomys dimidiatus (Günther, 1877) – Rodentia, Echimyidae – population with varying jackfruit tree (Artocarpus heterophyllus L.) abundances / Sobre ratos e jaqueiras: modelando a capacidade suporte de uma população do rato-de-espinho da Mata Atlântica Trinomys dimidiatus (Günther, 1877) – Rodentia, Echimyidae – em relação a diferentes abundâncias de jaqueiras (Artocarpus heterophyllus L.)

We carried out a six-year study aimed at evaluating if and how a Brazilian Atlantic Forest small mammal community responded to the presence of the invasive exotic species Artocarpus heterophyllus, the jackfruit tree. In the surroundings of Vila Dois Rios, Ilha Grande, RJ, 18 grids were established, 10 where the jackfruit tree was present and eight were it was absent. Previous results indicated that the composition and abundance of this small mammal community were altered by the presence and density of A. heterophyllus. One observed effect was the increased population size of the spiny-rat Trinomys dimidiatus within the grids where the jackfruit trees were present. Therefore we decided to create a mathematical model for this species, based on the Verhulst-Pearl logistic equation. Our objectives were i) to calculate the carrying capacity K based on real data of the involved species and the environment; ii) propose and evaluate a mathematical model to estimate the population size of T. dimidiatus based on the monthly seed production of jackfruit tree, Artocarpus heterophyllus and iii) determinate the minimum jackfruit tree seed production to maintain at least two T. dimidiatus individuals in one study grid. Our results indicated that the predicted values by the model for the carrying capacity K were significantly correlated with real data. The best fit was found considering 20~35% energy transfer efficiency between trophic levels. Within the scope of assumed premises, our model showed itself to be an adequate simulator for Trinomys dimidiatus populations where the invasive jackfruit tree is present.

Realizamos um estudo de seis anos para avaliar se e como uma comunidade de pequenos mamíferos terrestres da Mata Atlântica respondia à presença da jaqueira Artocarpus heterophyllus, espécie possivelmente nativa da Índia. Nos arredores da Vila Dois Rios, Ilha Grande, RJ, nós estabelecemos 18 grades de estudo, sendo 10 com jaqueiras e oito sem jaqueiras. Resultados prévios indicaram que a composição e a abundância dessa comunidade de pequenos mamíferos foram alteradas pela presença e densidade de A. heterophyllus. Um dos efeitos observados foi o aumento das populações do rato-de-espinho Trinomys dimidiatus nas grades onde a jaqueira estava presente. Criamos um modelo matemático para prever a capacidade de suporte dessa espécie, baseado na equação logística de Verhulst-Pearl. Nossos objetivos foram i) calcular a capacidade de suporte K com base em dados reais coletados tanto para T. dimidiatus quanto de seu ambiente; ii) propor e avaliar um modelo matemático para estimar o tamanho populacional de T. dimidiatu baseado na produção mensal de sementes de jaqueira e iii) determinar a produção mínima de sementes de jaqueira necessária para manter pelo menos dois indivíduos de T. dimidiatus. Nossos resultados indicaram que os valores previstos para K gerados pelo modelo foram significativamente correlacionados com os dados reais coletados. O melhor ajuste foi obtido considerando uma eficiência de transferência de energia entre níveis tróficos entre 20 e 35%. Dentro do escopo das premissas assumidas, nosso modelo se mostrou um simulador adequado para populações de T. dimidiatus em áreas onde a jaqueira já tenha invadido.

Development and Evaluation of Weaning Foods Using Locally Available Nutritious Fruits in Bangladesh

Bangladesh has one of the highest rates of malnutrition in the world although the country is endowed with agricultural produce that could be properly utilised to prepare adequate food for children. Considering this, three weaning foods were formulated using locally available cereals and nutritious fruits such as wheat, soya flour, jackfruit and mango. Methods: Standard procedures of Association of Official Analytical Chemists (AOAC) and American Public Health Association (APHA) were used to determine the chemical composition and microbiological analysis. Organoleptic qualities were analysed by twenty adult panelists of the Institute of Food Science and Technology, Bangladesh, using a 9-hedonic scale against a cereal based commercial brand as standard for proximate and sensory properties. Results: The moisture content of the developed weaning foods ranged from 2.78-3.59%, crude protein content 14.74-16.55%, fat 11.04-12.70%, ash 1.38-1.68%, crude fibre 1.04-1.52%, carbohydrate 65.83-71.09% and energy content from 445.80-465.48 kcal/100g of the foods. The formulated weaning foods A, B and C were significantly different (p<0.05) in moisture, protein, fat, carbohydrate and energy contents from the commercial brand, D. According to rat bioassay method, the prepared weaning foods C and B had the highest Protein Efficiency Ratio and Feed Efficiency Ratio than the commercial brand, D. Total bacterial counts were nil for all weaning foods. Sensory analysis revealed acceptability of all the weaning foods and preference for weaning food C that compared favorably with the standard in all the quality attributes. Conclusion: The formulated weaning foods are inexpensive and nutritious, and its ingredients are locally available. These foods have the potential for improving malnutrition problems facing children in Bangladesh.

Avaliação do efeito da Artin M no processo de reparação em mucosa mastigatória / Evaluation of Artin M on wound healing in palatal mucosa

Artin M é uma lectina purificada de sementes de Artocarpus heterophyllus que, recentemente, mostrou-se capaz depromover aceleração da cicatrização de lesões por queimadura de pele ou por abrasão da córnea em ratos e coelhos. O objetivo desta tese foi avaliar os efeitos da Artin M no processo de reparação da mucosa mastigatória bucal, por meio de modelos de estudo in vivo. Primeiro estudo: Três feridas cirúrgicas circulares de 6 mm de diâmetro foram criadas na mucosa palatina de 20 cães, e divididas aleatoriamente em 3 grupos de acordo com os tratamentos: C ­ controle (não tratados), A - Artin M, V - veículo. Quatro animais de cada grupo foram sacrificados após 2, 4, 7, 14 e 21 dias pós tratamento e suas maxilas analisadas clinicamente quanto ao padrão de cicatrização, seguido de análise histológica, imuno-histoquímica para antígeno nuclear de proliferação celular (PCNA) e atividade de mieloperoxidase. Clinicamente, o grupo A demonstrou melhor cicatrização em todos os períodos quando comparada aos outros grupos (p<0,05). A análise histológica mostrou ter havido no grupo A maior estimulação na produção de fibras colágenas, maturação do tecido de granulação e organização do epitélio. A imunolocalização de PCNA mostrou uma maior tendência na proliferação celular em lesões do grupo A principalmente nos dias iniciais (p<0,05). O influxo de neutrófilos mostrou-se estatisticamente aumentado no grupo A quando comparado aos outros grupos nos dias 2 e 4 (p<0,05). Conclui-se que a Artin M promoveu aceleração na reparação das feridas na mucosa mastigatória em cães, via recrutamento de neutrófilos e indução da proliferação celular. É bem conhecido o envolvimento de mediadores biológicos como citocinas e fatores de crescimento liberados pelas diferentes células no processo de reparação tecidual. Portanto, tendo em vista os resultados obtidos no primeiro modelo visamos avaliar a resposta ao tratamento tópico do gel de Artin M na mucosa mastigatória de rato. Segundo estudo: Feridas cirúrgicas circulares de 4 mm de diâmetro foram criados na mucosa palatina de 72 ratos Wistar, divididos aleatoriamente de acordo com o tratamento realizado nas lesões em 3 grupos: C ­ controle (não tratados), A -Artin M, V - veículo. Após 3, 5 e 7 dias pós-tratamento, 8 animais de cada grupo foram sacrificados e suas hemimaxilas foram divididas para realização da análise histológica; imuno-histoquímica para PCNA, bFGF, VEGF e TGF-ß; expressão protéica das citocinas pró-inflamatórias IL-1, IL-6 e TNFα, e dos fatores de crescimento VEGF e TGF-ß por ELISA. A análise histológica mostrou que no grupo A houve estimulação na regeneração e organização do epitélio, na produção de fibras colágenas e maturação do tecido de granulação e diminuição estatisticamente significante no infiltrado inflamatório no dia 7 quando comparado aos outros grupos (p<0,05). A análise imuno-histoquímica mostrou maior expressão de TGF-ß e VEGF no dia 3 (p<0,05) e maior proliferação celular no dia 5 (p<0,05) no grupo A. Além disso, maior expressão protéica de TGF-ß e VEGF nas lesões tratadas pelo Artin M foi confirmada pela ELISA no dia 3 (p<0,05). Diante dos resultados obtidos, concluiu-se que a aplicação tópica de gel de Artin M promoveu a reparação da mucosa mastigatória de ratos através estimulação na produção de TGF-ß e VEGF, proliferação celular, deposição de colágeno e reepitelização

Artin M, lectin from Artocarpus heterophyllus seeds, has been demonstrated to stimulate recruitment and activation of neutrophil and mast cells. Furthermore, it has been shown to accelerate the process of wound healing on burn injuries and corneal epithelial lesions in rats and rabbits, respectively. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of Artin M on wound healing in palatal mucosa in two animal models. Study 1: Three wounds of 6 mm full thickness were surgically created in the hard palate mucosa of twenty dogs. The wounds of each animal were randomly divided into three groups according to one of the treatment assigned: C­ Control (nontreated), A- Artin M gel, and V­ Vehicle (carboxymethylcellulose 3% gel). Four animals per group were sacrificed at 2, 4, 7, 14 and 21 days post-surgery. Before sacrifice, wounded areas were photographed and scored for macroscopic healing evaluation. Afterwards, maxillary tissue were harvested and divided to perform histological analysis, immunohistochemical staining against Proliferating Cell Nuclear Antigen (PCNA) and measurement of myeloperoxidase activity. Clinical analysis showed that wound closure was accelerated in group A in comparison to other groups in all periods. Histological features showed enhanced reepithelization and collagen fiber formation resulting in faster maturation of granular tissue in group A compared to the other groups, by day 14. Artin M treatment significantly induced cells proliferation at day 2 and 4 (p<0.05). Neutrophils infiltration in the group A was significantly higher than in the other groups at days 2 and 4 (p<0.05). The results suggest that Artin M gel may potentially facilitate wound healing on palatal mucosa via the recruitment of neutrophils and promotion of cells proliferation. It is well known that cytokines and growth factors released from different cells coordinate the healing process. Therefore, based on previous results we evaluated the effects of topical application of Artin M on wound healing in palatal mucosa of rats. Study 2: Seventy-two rats were divided into three groups according to one of the treatment assigned: C­ Control (non-treated), A- Artin M gel, and V­ Vehicle (carboxymethylcellulose 3% gel). A 4 mm full thickness wound was surgically created on the palatal mucosa of each animal. Eight animals per group were sacrificed at 3, 5, and 7 days post-surgery. Maxillary biopsies were harvested and divided to perform histological analysis, imunohistochemical analysis for bFGF, PCNA TGF-ß and VEGF and ELISA assay to evaluate levels of IL-1, IL-6, TNFα, TGF-ß and VEGF. Histological features showed faster reepithelization in group A, significant decrease in inflammatory cells infiltration by day 7 (p<0.05) and increased collagen fiber formation resulting in faster maturation of granular tissue compared to the other groups. Also, Artin M significantly induced cells proliferation at day 5 (p<0.05). Significantly higher expression of TGF-ß and VEGF were observed in group A compared to C at day 3 (p<0.05). In conclusion, the single application of Artin M gel has shown to be effective in the healing of oral mucosa wound in rats by enhancing TGF-ß and VEGF release, cell proliferation, reepithelization, collagen deposition and arrangement of collagen fibers. These findings may partially explain potential pharmacological actions of Artin M on promoting wound healing process

Flavonoids from Artocarpus hypargyreus / 中国中药杂志

<p><b>OBJECTIVE</b>To investigate flavonoids from Artocarpus hypargyreus.</p><p><b>METHOD</b>The compounds were isolated by various chromatographic methods and identified by spectroscopic analysis.</p><p><b>RESULT</b>Ten compounds were isolated and their structures were identified as artohypaflavone (1), brosimone H (2), artonin A (3), artocarpin (4), artopetelin B (5), (-)-epiafzelechin (6), oxyresveratrol (7), (+)-afzelechin (8), (+)-catechin (9), and (+)-afzelechin-3-O-alpha-L-rhamnopyranoside (10).</p><p><b>CONCLUSION</b>Compound 1 is a new isoprenylated flavone, while compounds 2, 4-6, and 8 were isolated from this plant for the first time.</p>

Phenolic content and in vitro inhibitory effects on oxidation and protein glycation of some thai medicinal plants

Fifteen medicinal plant extracts were investigated for: total phenolic content and free radical scavenging effect by DPPH and ABTS assays; anti-lipid peroxidation activity by TBARS; and for antiglycation activity. The results revealed that the total phenolic content showed good correlation with free radical scavenging by ABTS [r = 0.721] and anti-lipid peroxidation by TBARS [r = -0.659], but showed no correlation with antiglycation. Three extracts from Tamarindus indica, Camellia sinensis and Artocarpus lakoocha demonstrated a significant antioxidant effect, and also showed a promising antiglycation effect. The IC50 [mg/ml] were 0.9-0.16 for the DPPH method; TEAC values [mg Trolox/mg sample] of 1.72-2.83 for the ABTS method; IC50 [mg/ml] of 0.64- 1.22 for the TBARS method; and IC50 ranging from 0.01 to 3.20 for the antiglycation method. These three herbs were found to possess effective antioxidant and antiglycation activities, and could be further developed for use in anti-aging cosmetics

Efecto de la acetilación y oxidación sobre algunas propiedades del almidón de semillas de Fruto de pan (Artocarpus altilis) / Effect of acetylation and oxidation on some properties of Breadfruit (Artocarpus altilis) seed starch

El almidón extraído de las semillas del fruto de pan (Artocarpus altilis) fue modificado químicamente por acetilación y oxidación, y sus propiedades funcionales evaluadas y comparadas con las del almidón nativo. El análisis proximal reveló que los almidones modificados presentaron contenidos de humedad más altos que el nativo. El contenido de cenizas, proteínas, fibra cruda, y amilosa aparente fue reducido con las modificaciones. Las modificaciones no alteraron la morfología de los gránulos de almidón nativo de A. altilis, presentando forma irregular, en su mayoría ovalados y con superficie lisa. La absorción de agua, poder de hinchamiento y sólidos solubles variaron con las modificaciones químicas realizadas, resultando mayores en el almidón acetilado. En comparación con el almidón nativo, los dos tipos de modificación redujeron la temperatura inicial de gelatinización; el pico de máxima viscosidad se redujo en el almidón oxidado pero aumentó en el acetilado; la viscosidad de la pasta en caliente disminuyó para los almidones modificados, mientras que la viscosidad en frío fue menor en el almidón oxidado y mayor en el almidón acetilado. La estabilidad se incrementó con la acetilación y se redujo con la oxidación. El almidón acetilado presentó el valor más bajo de setback o asentamiento, por lo que hubo una menor tendencia a la retrogradación.

Effect of acetylation and oxidation on some properties of Breadfruit (Artocarpus altilis) seed starch. Starch extracted from seeds of Artocarpus altilis (Breadfruit) was chemically modified by acetylation and oxidation, and its functional properties were evaluated and compared with these of native starch. Analysis of the chemical composition showed that moisture content was higher for modified starches. Ash, protein, crude fiber and amylose contents were reduced by the modifications, but did not alter the native starch granules’ irregularity, oval shape and smooth surface. Acetylation produced changes in water absorption, swelling power and soluble solids, these values were higher for acetylated starch, while values for native and oxidized starches were similar. Both modifications reduced pasting temperature; oxidation reduced maximum peak viscosity but it was increased by acetylation. Hot paste viscosity was reduced by both modifications, whereas cold paste viscosity was lower in the oxidized starch and higher in the acetylated starch. Breakdown was increased by acetylation and reduced with oxidation. Setback value was reduced after acetylation, indicating it could minimize retrogradation of the starch.

Antioxidant activities of some local bangladeshi fruits (Artocarpus heterophyllus, Annona squamosa, Terminalia bellirica, Syzygium samarangense, Averrhoa carambola and Olea europa) / 生物工程学报

In the present study, antioxidant activities of the fruits of A. heterophyllus, A. squamosa, T. bellirica, S. samarangense, A. carambola and O. europa were investigated. For this, at first matured fruits of them were sliced into small pieces and dried in the sun and finally crushed in a grinder to make powder. Ethanolic extracts of fruit powder were prepared using 99.99% ethanol. The antioxidative activities of these extracts were determined according to their abilities of scavenging 1, 1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) free radical. It was demonstrated that all the ethanolic extracts of A. heterophyllus, A. squamosa, T. bellirica, S. samarangense, A. caranbola and O. europa showed antioxidant activities. The IC50 of the ethanolic extracts of A. heterophyllus, A. squamosa, T. bellirica, S. samarangense, A. carambola and O. europa were 410, 250, 34, 200, 30 and 76 microg/mL, respectively. Among them, A. carambola showed the highest antioxidant activities followed by T. bellirica, O. europa, S. samarangense, A. squamosa and A. heterophyllus indicating that fruits of A. carambola, T. bellirica and O. europa are very beneficial to human health.

In vitro effects of aqueous extract from Artocarpus takoocha Roxb on tegumental surface of Haplorchis taichui.

The tegumental surface of the adult intestinal fluke, Haplorchis taichui, after in vitro incubation in Tyrode's solution containing 25, 50, 75 and 100% of aqueous extract of Artocarpus takoocha for 1, 6, 12 and 24 hours, was monitored by Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). The effect on worm motility was studied in contemporizing period. The adult worms stopped their motility immediately after being incubated with 25, 50, 75 and 100% of aqueous extract of A. takoocha. Observed under a light microscope, most worms showed bubbling from the oral sucker, ventral sucker and excretory pore. After exposure to the solution, SEM observation showed large blebs protruding from the oral sucker, ventral sucker and excretory pore. The surface damage was composed of numerous small blebs, followed later by the disruption of tegument. The severity of damage increased due to the increasing of aqueous extract of A. takoocha and incubation periods.

Artocarpus heterophyllus seeds inhibits sexual competence but not fertility of male rats.

According to Ayurvedic literature of Sri Lanka, roasted seeds of Artocarpus heterophyllus Lam. (Family: Moraceae) has aphrodisiac activity. However, some reproductively active young men in rural areas of Sri Lanka claim that consumption of these seeds few hours prior to coitus disrupts sexual function. Because of these two conflicting claims, it was thought useful to scientifically investigate the effects of A. heterophyllus seeds on male sexual function and fertility. This was done using a seed suspension in 1% methylcellulose (SS) in rats. In a sexual behaviour study using receptive female rats, an oral administration of 500 mg/kg dose of SS markedly inhibited libido, sexual arousal, sexual vigour and sexual performance within 2 hr. Further, the treatment induced a mild erectile dysfunction. These antimasculine effects on sexual function was not evident 6 hr post treatment indicating rapid onset and offset of action. Further, these actions on the sexual behaviour was not due to general toxicity, liver toxicity, stress or reduction in blood testosterone level but due to marked sedative activity. In a mating study, SS failed to alter ejaculating competence and fertility. These results suggest that A. heterophyllous seeds do not have aphrodisiac action, at least, in rats.