Antimicrobial activity of comfort related properties of silk treated with herbal extracts in making of reusable masks

The study was aimed at divulging an eco-friendly antimicrobial finish on 100 % silk woven fabric. The leaves' extract of Azadirachata indica, Butea monosperma and Litche chinensis were used as the development of eco-friendly antimicrobial finish. The antimicrobial property and comfort related property were checked before and after applying antimicrobial finish. In comfort related property absorbency & air permeability were checked. The ASTEM E2149 Shake Flask method was used to check antimicrobial finish and AATCC method was used for checking fabric property. One way ANOVA statistical test was applied for analysis of results. The FTIR and SEM results showed the presences of finish on fabrics. In comfort related property, absorbency and air permeability was increased. The results showed that antimicrobial finish made 100% reduction against microorganism up to 25 washes which can be used in making reusable masks fight against COVID- 19.

Construction of yeast cell factories for production of azadirachtin precursor tirucalla-7,24-dien-3β-ol / 中国中药杂志

Azadirachtin, as a botanical insecticide, is a highly oxidized limonoid triterpenoid existing in the seeds of Azadirachta indica. However, due to the low content in the seeds, the production of azadirachtin by seed extraction has low yield. Chemical synthesis of azadirachtin is characterized by complex process and low yield. Synthetic biology provides an alternative for the supply of azadirach-tin. In this study, two oxidosqualene cyclases AiOSC1 and MaOSC1 respectively derived from A. indica and Melia azedarach were identified in yeast. A yeast strain producing tirucalla-7,24-dien-3β-ol was constructed by integration of AiOSC1, Arabidopsis thaliana-derived squalene synthase gene(AtAQS2), and Saccharomyces cerevisiae-derived truncated 3-hydroxy-3-methyl-glutaryl coenzyme A reductase gene(PgtHMGR) into the delta site of yeast. Then, the function of MaCYP71BQ5 was successfully verified in yeast after this gene was introduced into the constructed yeast strain. This study not only laid a foundation for the biosynthesis of tirucalla-7,24-dien-3β-ol, but also provided a chassis cell for the functional identification of cytochrome oxidases(CYP450 s) in azadirachtin biosynthesis pathway.

Avaliação hematológica e hepática de ovinos sob tratamento com torta de neem (Azadirachta indica) / Hematological and liver evaluation of sheep under treatment with neem pie (Azadirachta indica)

Devido aos altos índices de resistência dos parasitas aos diferentes princípios ativos comerciais, novas alternativas de controle vêm sendo estudadas, entre elas a fitoterapia. Essas medidas visam a busca de métodos auxiliares no controle das parasitoses, entretanto, muitos produtos estão disponíveis no mercado e não têm comprovação científica de sua eficácia ou de possíveis efeitos colaterais. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar os efeitos hematológicos e hepáticos após a administração de torta de Neem (Azadirachta indica) em ovinos. Foram testadas três dosagens da torta de Neem adicionada ao sal mineral (1, 2 e 4%), administradas por 126 dias para 32 ovinos da raça Lacaune, divididos em quatro grupos sendo três grupos para os diferentes tratamentos e um controle, o qual recebeu somente sal mineral. Amostras de sangue foram colhidas a cada 21 dias para realização do hemograma completo, dosagem de proteína plasmática total e fibrinogênio e avaliação da bioquímica clínica hepática. Nestas mesmas ocasiões, amostras de fezes foram coletadas para a quantificação de ovos por grama de fezes (OPG). Foram observadas diferenças estatísticas entre momentos e grupos para diversas variáveis, porém sem estarem relacionadas à administração de torta de Neem. Os resultados obtidos de hemograma completo, dosagem de proteína plasmática total, fibrinogênio e de bioquímica clínica hepática indica

Due to high levels of parasite resistance to different commercial active ingredients, new control alternatives are being studied, including the phytotherapy. These measures aim to search for auxiliary methods in the control of parasitic diseases. However, there are many products available in the market and there are no scientific proof of its efficacy. The objective of this study was to evaluate the hematological and hepatic effects following administration of Neem pie (Azadirachta indica) in sheep. Three concentrations of Neem cake was added to the mineral salt (1, 2 and 4 %) and administered during 126 days to 32 Lacaune breed sheeps, divided into four groups: three groups for different treatments and a and a control were tested, the ladder receiving only mineral salt. Blood samples were taken every 21 days to perform the complete blood count, serum total plasma protein and fibrinogen and liver biochemical evaluation. In those same times, fecal samples were collected for quantification of eggs per gram of feces (EPG). Statistical differences between times and groups for several variables were observed, but without being related to the administration of Neem pie. The results of complete blood count, measurement of total plasma protein, fibrinogen and hepatic clinical biochemistry indicated that administration of Neem pie at concentrations of 1, 2 and 4%, does not interfere in hematological values, or on the integrity and liver function Lacaune sheep breed.

Prevention of UVB radiation-induced oxidative stress in mice by topical administration of Azadirachta indica(neem) extract

Neem tree (Azadirachta indica A. Juss. fam. Meliaceae) has been extensively employed to combat diverse pathologies. Moreover, it has been described that its leaf extract present anticarcinogenic action. Thus, the neem extract (NE) chemical and antioxidant properties was evaluated, and also, the capacity of two dermatological formulations incorporated with neem extract (F1 and F2) to avoid oxidative UVB-induced skin injury in hairless mice. NE constituents were investigated and free radical scavenging ability were determined by different methods in vitro. Skin from mice treated with F1 and F2 and submitted to UVB radiation were tested for different parameters of inflammation and oxidative injury. Results show that the NE polyphenol and flavonoid content were 135.30 and 37.12mg/g, respectively. High performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) results demonstrated the existence of azarachtin, rutin, ursolic acid and tannic acid. NE presented scavenging ability by ABTS radical, ferric-reducing antioxidant power (FRAP), inhibition of lipid peroxidation and iron chelation. In vivo, it was observed that mice treated with F1 and F2 showed amelioration of the inflammation by reducing UVB induced skin edema. However, only samples from animals treated with F1 had lower neutrophil recruitment (measured by myeloperoxidase activity), and returning the oxidative status to baseline levels in parameters such as reduced glutathione level, ferric reducing ability (FRAP), and scavenging of free radical (ABTS). Concluding, NE demonstrated a good antioxidant property in vitro, and the data suggest the use of NE added F1 to prevent skin damage caused by UVB irradiation.(AU)

Efficacy of Azadirachta indica (Neem) leaf extract and hypertonic saline solution as intratesticular chemical sterilizing agents in dogs / Eficácia do extrato de folha de Azadirachta indica (Neem) e solução salina hipertônica como agente químico esterilizante intratesticular em cães

Castration refers to induced sterility via physical, chemical, or hormonal methods. Chemical castration is an efficient and reliable technique in contrast to other sterilization procedures as it is less painful to physical methods and cost­effective to hormonal methods. Azadirachta indica (neem), is a charismatic plant as its leaves possess anti­inflammatory, anti­microbial, and anti­androgenic chattels. To abate the escalating human population in South Asia, neem oil and neem leaf extract have been effectively used as a contraceptive agent. The key determinant of the current study was to evaluate Neem as a chemical sterilizing agent, (either necrotic or apoptotic), in dogs injected intratesticular in comparison to a hypertonic saline solution. Pre­ and post­injection testicular width size and blood samples for serum testosterone levels were collected on alternative days. Results disclosed substantial changes in testicular width size, histopathological profile, and serum testosterone level. A non­significant (P > 0.05) pre­injection testicular width readings in contrast to a significant increase (P < 0.05) three days post­injection was noted in all the competitive groups. The mean values recorded for testicular width size at the end of the trial study via neem leaf extract, 30% HSS and, control groups were 27.7362 ± 2.3315mm, 30.9594 ± 4.6861mm, and 24.5023 ± 2.5387mm, respectively. A declining trend, regarding serum testosterone level being statistically significant (P < 0.05) was recorded in treated groups (A, B) in contrast to the control group (C) as the values were 1.5357 ± 0.7819ng, 1.2669 ± 0.9095ng, and 2.4517 ± 0.1827ng in groups A, B, and C, respectively. Histopathological findings advocated the presence of apoptotic bodies in the neem treated group whereas the presence of degenerated interstitial cells, necrosed seminiferous tubules, damaged germinal epithelium, and ceased spermatogenesis was also studied in both competitive groups. Thus, the apoptotic effect and anti­inflammatory property of neem leaf extract resulted in less painful castration and verified Azadirachta indica as a better substitute for chemical castration in contrast to hypertonic saline solution.(AU)

A castração consiste na indução da esterilidade por meio físico, químico ou hormonal. A castração química é uma técnica eficiente e confiável, em contraste com outros procedimentos de esterilização, pois é menos dolorosa para os métodos físicos e econômicos para os métodos hormonais. Azadirachta indica (neem), é uma planta carismática, pois possui folhas anti­inflamatórias, antimicrobianas e antiandrogênicas. Para diminuir a crescente população humana no sul da Ásia, o óleo de nim e o extrato de folhas de nim têm sido efetivamente usados como agente contraceptivo. O principal determinante deste estudo atual foi avaliar o Neem como um agente esterilizante químico (necrótico ou apoptótico) em cães injetados intratesticularmente em comparação com uma solução salina hipertônica. O tamanho da largura testicular pré e pós­injeção e as amostras de sangue para os níveis séricos de testosterona foram colhidas em dias alternados. Os resultados obtidos revelaram alterações substanciais no tamanho da largura testicular, perfil histopatológico e nível sérico de testosterona. Observou­se uma leitura não significativa (P> 0,05) da largura testicular da pré­injeção, em contraste com um aumento significativo (P <0,05) três dias após a injeção em todos os grupos competitivos.Os valores médios registrados para o tamanho da largura testicular no final do estudo via extrato de folhas de nim,HSS a 30% e grupos controle foram 27,7362 ± 2,3315 mm, 30,9594 ± 4,6861 mm e 24,5023 ± 2,5387 mm, respectivamente.Uma tendência decrescente, com relação ao nível sérico de testosterona sendo estatisticamente significante (P <0,05), foi registrada nos grupos tratados (A, B), em contraste com o grupo controle (C), pois os valores eram 1,5357 ± 0,7819ng, 1,2669 ± 0,9095ng e 2,4517 ± 0,1827ng nos grupos A, B e C, respectivamente. Os achados histopatológicos advogaram a presença de corpos apoptóticos no grupo tratado com nim, enquanto a presença de células intersticiais degeneradas, túbulos seminíferos necrosados, epitélio germinativo danificado e espermatogênese interrompida também foi estudada nos dois grupos competitivos. Assim, o efeito apoptótico e a propriedade anti­inflamatória do extrato de folhas de nim resultaram em uma castração menos dolorosa e confirmaram que a Azadirachta indica foi um melhor substituto para a castração química do que a solução salina hipertônica.(AU)

Insecticidal activities and mechanism of extracts from neem leaves against Oxya chinensis / Atividade e mecanismos inseticidas de extratos de folhas "neem" contra Oxya chinesis

In this study, neem leaves were successively extracted with petroleum ether, 95% ethanol and water and the insecticidal activities of these extracts against Oxya chinensis larvae were measured. The results showed that 95% ethanol extract gave the highest extraction yield and insecticidal activity, and it was further extracted with five different solvents. The petroleum ether extract from the 95% ethanol extract possessed the highest insecticidal activity with median lethal concentration values ranging from 14.93 to 55.66mg/mL. The gas chromatography-mass spectrometer analysis showed that the petroleum ether extract mainly composed of alkanes, olefin, esters and amide. The pathological examination revealed that the prominent lesions, including reduced regenerative cells in midgut and swelled and degenerated cylindrical cells, were observed in the 5th instar Oxya chinensis after treatment. The ultrastructural features showed that the cylindrical cells, microvilli and mitochondria were seriously damaged. These results suggested that the petroleum ether extract from neem leaves had potent insecticidal activity and could be a candidate insecticide.(AU)

Nesse estudo, folhas "neem" foram extraídas com sucesso com éter de petróleo, 95% de etanol e água, e as atividades inseticidas desses extratos foram medidas contra larvas de Oxya chinesis. Os resultados mostram que extrato com 95% de etanol deram o maior resultado de extração e atividade inseticida e foi então extraído utilizando mais cinco diferentes solventes. O éter de petróleo do extrato de 95% etanol apresentou maior atividade inseticida com concentração letal média variando de 14.93 a 55.66mg/mL. A análise por cromatografia de massa mostrou que o extrato de éter de petróleo está composto principalmente de alcanos, alcenos, ésteres e amidas. A avaliação patológica revelou que as lesões proeminentes, inclusive células regenerativas reduzidas no intestino e células cilíndricas edemaciadas e degeneradas foram observadas no quinto estágio de desenvolvimento da Oxya chinesis após tratamento. As características ultraestruturais mostraram que as células cilíndricas, microvilos e mitocôndrias apresentavam lesões graves. Esses resultados sugerem que o extrato de éter de petróleo de folhas de "neem" tem atividade inseticida potente e pode ser um candidato a inseticida.(AU)

Simultaneous Extraction and Separation of Oil and Azadirachtin from Seeds and Leaves of Azadirachta indica using Binary Solvent Extraction

Conventional extraction of oil and azadirachtin, a botanical insecticide, from Azadirachta indica involves defatting the seeds and leaves using hexane followed by azadirachtin extraction with a polar solvent. In order to simplify the process while maintaining the yield we explored a binary extraction approach using Soxhlet extraction device and hexane and ethanol as non-polar and polar solvents at various ratios and extraction times. The highest oil and azadirachtin yields were obtained at 6 h extraction time using a 50:50 solvent mixture for both neem leaves (44.7 wt%, 720 mg(Aza)/kg(leaves)) and seeds (53.5 wt%, 1045 mg(Aza)/kg(seeds)), respectively.

Limonoids from seeds of Azadirachta indica and their cytotoxic activity / 中国中药杂志

Eight limonoids were isolated from 95% ethanol extracts of neem(Azadirachta indica) seeds by various chromatographic methods. By comparison of their spectroscopic data with those reported in the literatures, these limonoids were determined as salannin(1), 1-detigloyl-1-isobutylsalannin(2), salannol-3-acetate(3), salannol(4), spirosendan(5), 1-detigloyloxy-3-deacetylsalannin-1-en-3-one(6), nimbin(7) and 6-deacetylnimbin(8). Compounds 2 and 5 were firstly isolated from this genus and 5 represented the only example of its type. And 6 is a new natural product. 6 showed inhibitory activity against HeLa and HL-60 cells, with IC₅₀ of(21.61±4.37) and(27.33±5.74) μmol·L⁻¹, respectively. Both 7 and 8 mildly inhibited the growth of HeLa cells, with IC₅₀ of (33.15±5.24) and (38.56±6.41) μmol·L⁻¹, respectively.

Evaluation of cytotoxic and antiviral activities of aqueous leaves extracts of different plants against foot and mouth disease virus infection in farming animals

Cytotoxic and antiviral activity of aqueous leaves extracts of three plants: Azadirachta indica, Moringa oleifera and Moms alba against Foot and Mouth disease virus [FMDV] were determined using MTT assay [3-[4, 5-Dimethylthiazol-2-yl]-2, 5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide]. Eight different concentrations of each plant were evaluated. Cytotoxic and antiviral activity of each extract was evaluated as cell survival percentage and results were expressed as Means +/- S.D. From the tested plant extracts, Azadirachta indica and Moringa oleifera exhibited cytotoxicity at 200 and 100 microg/ml respectively. In case of antiviral assay, Moringa oleifera showed potent antiviral activity [p<0.05] while Azadirachta indica showed significant antiviral activity in the range of 12.5-50 microg/ml and 50-100 microg/ml respectively. In contrast no anti-FMDV activity in the present study was observed with Morus alba, although all the tested concentrations were found to be safe

Toxic effect of commercial formulations of neem oil, Azadirachta indica A. Juss., in pupae and adults of the sugarcane borer, Diatraea saccharalis F. (Lepidoptera: Crambidae) / Efeito tóxico de formulações comerciais de óleo de neem, Azadirachta indica A. Juss., em pupas e adultos da broca da cana-de-açúcar, Diatraea saccharalis F. (Lepidoptera: Crambidae)

To evaluate the toxic effect of commercial formulations of neem oil, Azadirachta indica A. Juss, pre-pupae (PP), young pupae (YP) and old pupae (OP) of Diatraea saccharalis F. (Lepidoptera: Crambidae) were sprayed with the diluted extract in distilled water at concentrations of 0.0, 0.3, 0.5, 1.0 and 2.0%. The neem extract caused concentration-dependent effects on mortality of pupae, and the pupae that failed to emerge in adults had multiple abnormalities. The longevity of pupae that emerged in adults (YP and OP group) did not differ from the control group. The abnormalities found in adults were related to mortality in all treatments, except at the concentration of 1.0%. Fertility was assessed according to the oviposition of adult females from the YP group that showed no abnormalities, through the evaluation of the number of deposited eggs and the rate of undeveloped eggs. The results showed a reduction in the number of eggs laid and an increase in the percentage of undeveloped eggs. These results show that neem oil has a high potential to control the toughest stage of the sugarcane borer and also reduces the further development. Therefore, commercial formulations of neem oil have a toxic effect on pupae and adults of D. saccharalis.(AU)

Para avaliar o efeito tóxico de formulações comerciais de óleo de neem, Azadirachta indica A. Juss, pré-pupas (PP), pupas jovens (PJ) e pupas velhas (PV) da Diatraea saccharalis F. (Lepidoptera: Crambidae) foram pulverizadas com o extrato diluído em água destilada, em concentrações de 0,0, 0,3, 0,5, 1,0 e 2,0%. O neem provocou diferentes efeitos sobre a mortalidade de pupas, dependendo da concentração. As pupas que não conseguiram emergir em adultos apresentaram anormalidades múltiplas. Quanto às pupas que emergiram em adultos (grupos PJ e PV), foi calculada a sua longevidade, que não diferiu da do grupo controle. As anormalidades encontradas em adultos estão relacionadas com a mortalidade em todos os tratamentos com exceção da concentração de 1,0%. A fecundidade foi avaliada de acordo com a oviposição de adultos fêmeas do grupo PJ, que não apresentaram anormalidades; dentro dos ovos depositados foi avaliado o número de ovos não desenvolvidos. Os resultados demonstraram redução no número de ovos depositados e aumento na porcentagem de ovos não desenvolvidos. Esses resultados mostraram que o óleo de neem tem elevado potencial para o controle do estágio mais resistente da broca da cana-de-açúcar, além de reduzir o aparecimento das fases subsequentes. Portanto, formulações comerciais de óleo de neem apresentam um efeito tóxico em pupas e adultos de D. Saccharalis.(AU)

Antimicrobial effect of ethanol extract of leaf neem (Azadirachta indica A. Juss) on Listeria monocytogenes

Listeria monocytogenes es un patógeno causante de enfermedades alimentarias. En la búsqueda de controlar su propagación utilizando sustancias naturales se planteó el objetivo de mostrar si el extracto etanólico foliar de neem (Azadirachta Indica A. Juss.) tiene efecto antimicrobiano sobre L. monocytogenes ICTA-12446. El extracto se obtuvo a partir de hojas de neem sometidas a secado por 8 días, se redujeron de tamaño mecánicamente, se sometieron a maceración en frío por 3 días usando etanol 96% en recipientes ámbar, se filtró y concentró en rota evaporador. Se estandarizó el concentrado con dimetilsulfóxido (DMSO) a una concentración de 60 mg/L. Listeria monocytogenes ICTA-12446, fue inoculado en caldo nutriente junto con soluciones del extracto a diferentes concentraciones (20, 30, 40, 50 y 60 mg/L), se emplearon tiempos de contacto (2.5, 5, 10 y 15 minutos). Cumplido cada tiempo se realizaron diluciones seriadas e inocularon en agar nutritivo por extensión durante 24 h a 37ºC. Se efectuó el recuento en Unidades Formadoras de Colonias UFC. Al comparar las concentraciones del extracto se evidencia entre 20 y 60 mg/mL diferencia significativa, mientras que en 30, 40 y 50 mg/mL un comportamiento similar. Al contrastar tiempos de contacto, se observa que entre el tiempo 2.5 min y los restantes un p=0,03. El tiempo mínimo donde existió inhibición fue 2.5 minutos, y concentración mínima inhibitoria de 20 mg/mL. Los cuatro tiempos de contacto arrojan porcentajes de inhibición microbiana de 100% al emplear 60mg/mL. Se concluye que el extracto etanólico foliar de neem posee un efecto inhibitorio sobre Listeria monocytogenes(AU)

Listeria monocytogenes is a pathogen causing foodborne illness. In seeking to control its spread using natural substances in order to show if the leaf ethanol extract of neem (Azadirachta indica A. Juss) has antimicrobial effect on L. monocytogenes ICTA-12446, was proposed. The extract was obtained from neem leaves, which was subjected to drying for 8 days. It was reduced in size mechanically, and subjected to cold soak for 3 days, using 96% ethanol in amber vessels, filtered and concentrated in rot evaporator. Concentrated was solubilized with dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO) and standarized to achieve a concentration of 60 mg/mL Listeria monocytogenes was inoculated in nutrient broth with extract solutions at different concentrations (20, 30, 40, 50 and 60mg/mL), four contact times (2.5, 5, 10 and 15 minutes) were used. Completed each time it was diluted and inoculated on nutrient agar by extension for 24h at 37ºC. The count of Colony Forming Units UFC was taking. Comparing the concentrations of the extract between 20 and 60mg /mL significant difference was appreciate, while 30, 40 and 50 mg/mL show a similar behavior. Contrasting contact times observed between time 2.5 min and the remaining p = 0.03. The minimum time where there was some kind of inhibition was 2.5 minutes, and minima inhibitory concentration of 20mg/mL. The four contact times yield microbial inhibition percentages of 100% by using 60mg/L. It is concluded that ethanol extract of neem leaf has an inhibitory effect on L. monocytogenes(AU)

Chemical pesticides and vegetal extracts on Sitophilus zeamais control in stored corn grains / Inseticidas químicos e extratos vegetais no controle de Sitophilus zeamais em grãos de milho armazenados

Sitophilus species are major pests of stored grain and their control is achieved mainly with the use of chemical insecticides, but the indiscriminate use of these products is resulting in several undesirable factors to man and to the environment. Thus, the use of natural insecticides comes as an option to control the insects, while lessening risks to the environment. The study was conducted at the Institute of Agricultural Sciences and Technologies, Rondonópolis campus of the Federal University of Mato Grosso, in the period from March to September 2012. The experiment was conducted under three different storing conditions. Aqueous extracts were obtained by the addition of Allium sativum L, Azadirachta indica A. Juss. and Cymbopogon winterianum Jowitt vegetable powders in distilled water, at a ratio of 5 g per 100 ml, and the levels of chemical insecticides were of 0.04 and 0.15 ml/100 ml of water for deltamethrin and chlorpyrifos, respectively. Treatments were added to the corn grains, which were placed in a 2.5 L glass container, mixed by manual shaking and infested with 20 adults of unsexed Sitophilus zeamais. Grains were stored for 60 days. At 30 and 60 days, the following items were analyzed: bugs count, water content in grains and electrical conductivity. The data were submitted to analysis of variance, and means were compared by Tukey test at 5% probability. At 30 days, the efficiency of chemical insecticides in the control of Sitophilus zeamais was observed in the three storage environments. Vegetal extracts were not effective in controlling insects. The larger number of insects increased the electrical conductivity and humidity values in the grains.

O objetivo desse trabalho foi estudar o efeito inseticida de extratos vegetais aquosos e inseticidas químicos sob condições de armazenamento. O experimento foi realizado sob três condições de armazenamento. Os extratos aquosos foram obtidos pela adição dos pós vegetais de Allium sativum L, Azadirachta indica A. Juss. e Cymbopogon winterianum Jowitt. em água destilada na proporção de 5g por 100 ml, e as dosagens dos inseticidas químicos foram de 0,04 e 0,15 ml/100 ml de água para Deltametrina e Clorpirifós respectivamente. Os tratamentos foram adicionados aos grãos de milho acondicionados em recipientes de vidro de 2,5 L, misturados por agitação manual, e infestados com 20 adultos de Sitophilus zeamais não sexados. Os grãos ficaram armazenados durante 60 dias. Analisou-se aos 30 e 60 dias: contagem de insetos, teor de água nos grãos e condutividade elétrica. Os dados foram submetidos à analise de variância, e as médias comparadas pelo teste de Tukey a 5 % de probabilidade. Aos 30 dias, observa-se eficiência dos inseticidas químicos no controle de Sitophilus zeamais nos três ambientes de armazenamento. Os extratos vegetais não são eficientes no controle dos insetos. O maior número de insetos elevam os valores de condutividade elétrica e umidade nos grãos.

Estudo da atividade antifúngica de extratos vegetais de Azadirachta indica frente a cepa padrão de Candida albicans ATCC 10231 / Study on the antifungal activity of vegetable extraxts from Azadirachta indica in face to standard Candida albicans ATCC 10231 strain

Azadirachta indica A. Juss, conhecida popularmente como "Neem" é uma árvore indiana, pertencente à família Meliaceae. Apresenta diferentes propriedades terapêuticas, dentre elas, a atividade antibacteriana, antiparasitária, antifúngica e moluliscida. O objetivo do trabalho foi avaliar a atividade antifúngica do extrato bruto das folhas de A. indica frente às cepa padrão de Candida albicans ATCC 10231. Os extratos de A. indica foram preparados utilizando o álcool etílico 70%, acetato de etila e hexano como agentes extratores. Para a determinação da CIM (Concentração Inibitória Mínima) dos extratos foram realizadas as técnicas de macrodiluição em tubos e microdiluição em placa empregando a técnica do MABA (Microplate Alamar Blue Assay). Para o extrato bruto produzido com álcool etílico 70% e hexano, revelaram-se incapazes de inibir a cepa C. albicans mesmo na concentração de 2000 µg/mL, o extrato a base de acetato de etila foi o único capaz de exercer efeitos inibitórios em C. albicans ATCC 10231 na concentração de 2000µg/mL.

Azadirachta indica A. Juss, popularly known as "Neem", is an Indian tree belonging to the Meliaceae family. It has several therapeutic properties, among them, the antifungal activity. The objective was to evaluate the antifungal activity of the crude extract from the leaves of A. indica in face of the standard Candida albicans ATCC 10231 strains. The extracts of A. indica were prepared using 70% ethanol, ethyl acetate and hexane as the extracting agent. For the determination of the MIC (Minimum Inhibitory Concentration) of the extracts, the techniques of macrodilution in tubes and microdilution on plates were performed, using the MABA (Microplate Alamar Blue Assay) technique. The crude extract produced with 70% ethanol and hexane proved to be unable to inhibit C. albicans strain even at a concentration of 2000µg/mL, whereas the ethyl acetate extract was the only one able to exert inhibitory effects on C. albicans ATCC 10231 at a concentration of 2000µg/mL.

Post-natal development of rats` offspring treated with the ethanol extract of Neem leaves (Azadirachta indica A. Juss) during pregnancy and lactation / Desenvolvimento pós-natal de proles de ratas tratadas com o extrato etanólico das folhas de nim (Azadirachta indica A. Juss) durante a gestação e lactação

Teratogenicity and developmental abnormalities in the offspring of female rats that ingested ethanol extract of Neem plants during pregnancy and lactation period were assessed. Twenty-four female Wistar rats were randomly distributed in control group and in three experimental groups and treated during the 4th, 5th, and 6th day of pregnancy. After birth, the lactating females received, by gavage, 65, 135 and 200 mg kg-1 of Neem ethanol extract, during 15 days. Results show, there was no significant difference in body mass index of neonatal rats in the 4 groups evaluated, whereas mean rate of offspring survival was 79.4%. Hair growth, incisor teeth eruption, ear detachment, eyelid opening, and spontaneous ambulation were similar for all groups. Likewise, physical development and development of motor activity, ambulation, and postural reflexes were similar for all groups. The administration of Neem ethanol extract did not cause any reproductive or systemic toxicity in animals. Results show that, Neem ethanol extract safe at doses 65, 135 and 200 mg kg-1 in pregnant or lactating rats.

Teratogenicidade e anormalidades no desenvolvimento de proles de ratas que ingeriram o extrato etanólico de folhas de nim durante a gestação e lactação foram avaliadas. Vinte e quatro ratas Wistar foram distribuídas aleatoriamente em um grupo controle e três grupos experimentais tratados no quarto, quinto e sexto dias de gestação. Após o nascimento, as fêmeas lactantes receberam através de gavagem, o extrato etanólico de nim nas doses de 65, 135 e 200 mg kg-1 durante 15 dias. Nenhuma diferença significativa foi observada em relação ao índice de massa corpórea das fêmeas em lactação nos grupos em todos os momentos e a taxa média de sobrevivência dos filhotes foi de 79,4%. O tempo de crescimento piloso, erupção dos dentes incisivos, descolamento de orelha, abertura palpebral e deambulação espontânea foram semelhantes em todos os grupos. O desenvolvimento físico e da atividade motora, deambulação e reflexos posturais foram semelhantes em todos os grupos. A administração não resultou em toxicidade reprodutiva ou sistêmica. Os resultados mostraram que o extrato etanólico do nim é seguro para uso nas doses de 65, 135 e 200mg kg-1 em ratas prenhes ou em lactação.

Formação de mudas de Nim com aplicação de biofertilizante bovino submetido à drenagem e estresse salino / Formation of Neem seedlings with application of bovine biofertilizer subjected to drainage and saline stress

Diversos fatores podem influenciar a formação de mudas. Entre as causas de insucesso, encontram-se a dificuldade de manutenção de drenagem e qualidade da água de irrigação. O objetivo do trabalho foi avaliar os efeitos do biofertilizante bovino e salinidade da água de irrigação na formação de mudas de nim. O delineamento experimental foi em blocos casualizados, com os tratamentos arranjados no esquema fatorial 5 x 2 x 2, com quatro repetições, referente aos níveis de salinidade da água de irrigação de 0,5; 1,5; 3,0; 4,5 e 6,0 dS m-1, no solo sem e com biofertilizante bovino, sem e com drenagem. As variáveis analisadas foram emergência de plântulas, número de folhas, diâmetro caulinar e área foliar. O biofertilizante bovino depois de diluído em água não salina (0,49 dS m-1) e não clorada na razão de 1:1, foi aplicado uma única vez, dois dias antes da semeadura, ao nível de 10% do volume do substrato. A irrigação das plantas com cada tipo de água foi feita diariamente fornecendo um volume de água suficiente para elevar a umidade do solo para o nível mais próxima da capacidade de campo. Pelos resultados, com o aumento da salinidade das águas houve reduções no crescimento das plantas em até 28%, mas o biofertilizante bovino e a drenagem do solo proporcionaram melhores condições de crescimento das mudas.

Several factors may influence in formation of seedlings. Among the causes of failure find discovered the difficulty of maintain of the drainage and quality of irrigation water. The objective of wok was study or evaluate the effects of bovine biofertilizer and water salinity in the formation of neem seedlings. The experimental design was in randomized block, with the treatments arranged in factorial scheme 5 x 2 x 2, with four repetitions, referring at the five salinity levels of irrigation water: 0.5, 1.5, 3.0, 4.5 and 6.0 dS m-1, in soil without and with bovine biofertilizer, in soil without and with soil drainage. The variables analyzed were: seedlings emergence, number of leaves, stem diameter and leaf area. The bovine biofertilizer after diluted in noon-saline water (0,49 dS m-1) e not chlorinated in reason to 1:1, was applied an once two days before sowing, at level to 10% of substrate volume. The plants were irrigated daily with each type of water in volume sufficient to increase the soil moisture for the level nearest of field capacity. By results, with the increasing of salinity waters there were reductions in plant growth up to 28%, but the bovine biofertilizer and soil drainage provided better conditions for seedling growth.

effect of neem [Azadirachta indica A. Juss] thevetia [thevetia peruviana [Pers.] K. Schum.] extracts inhibition of fungi growth causing cotton root-rot disease

The present showed the effect of Neem and Thevetia extract on growth of R. solani. The Stsdy Neem and Thevetia oil seed inhibited the growth of R. solani percentage of inhibition. Data indicated that the inhibition percentage of oil seed for the Neem was 79.3% and for Thevetia it was 75.2%. Ethanolic extract of leaves of Neem and Thevetia showed higher activity on the growth of R. solani at higher concentration. Applying ethanolic extract of the leaves of the Neem and Thevetia, revealed that the inhibition of the extract of leaves on the Neem was markedly higher than of Thevetia [68.9% versus 48.9%]

Performance and carcass characteristics of guinea fowl fed on dietary Neem [Azadirachta indica] leaf powder as a growth promoter

The present work aimed at studying growth pattern and carcass traits in pearl grey guinea fowl fed on dietary Neem [Azadirachta indica] leaf powder [NLP] over a period of 12 weeks. Day old guinea fowl keets [n=120] were randomly assigned to four treatment groups, each with 3 replicates. The first treatment was designated as control [T[0]] in which no supplement was added to the feed, while in treatments T[1], T[2] and T[3], NLP was provided as 1, 2 and 3 g per kg of feed, respectively. The results revealed a significant increase in body weight at 12 weeks; 1229.7 for T[1], 1249.8 for T[2], and 1266.2 g T[3] compared to 1220.0 g for the control group [P<0.05]. The results also showed that the supplementation of NLP significantly increased feed intake [P

Antifungal Effect of Malaysian Neem Leaf Extract on Selected Fungal Species Causing Otomycosis in In-Vitro Culture Medium

Azadirachta indica (neem) has been used for a long time in agricultural and alternative medicine. Neem had been proved effective against certain fungi that could infect human body. This pilot study aims to demonstrate the antifungal effect of Malaysian neem leaf extracts on the pathogenic fungi in otomycosis, Aspergillus niger and Candida albicans. This is a laboratory-controlled prospective study conducted at Universiti Sains Malaysia. The powder form of Malaysian neem leaf was prepared. Ethanol and aqueous extracts of the neem leaf was diluted with sterile water to establish five different concentrations of 50 g/ ml, 25 g/ml, 12.5 g/ml, 6.25 g/ml and 3.125g/ml. The extract was tested on Sabouraud Dextrose Agar suspended with Candida albicans and Aspergillus niger respectively. Well diffusion method was used and zone of inhibition was measured. Growth of the fungi was inhibited in both alcohol and aqueous extract concentrations. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of Malaysian neem aqueous extract against Candida albicans was 11.91 g/ml, neem ethanol extract against Candida albicans was 5.16 g/ ml, neem aqueous extract against Aspergillus niger was 7.73 g/ml and neem ethanol extract against Aspergillus niger was 9.25 g/ml. Statistical analysis showed that the antifungal activity of Candida albicans is better in alcohol neem than aqueous extract (p<0.001) but aqueous neem extract is better than alcohol extract (p<0.001) for Aspergillus niger.Malaysian neem has significant antifungal effect towards Aspergillus niger, best in aqueous extract and towards Candida albicans, was best in alcohol extract.

Development of bioprocess for the production of laccase by Pleurotus ostreatus MTCC 1802 using evolutionary optimization technique.

For cost effective production of laccase enzyme (benzenediol: oxygen oxidoreductase) from P. ostreatus MTCC 1802 through solid sate fermentation, physico-chemical parameters such as temperature (20-35 ºC), incubation period (9-17 days) and substrate (Neem bark and wheat bran, in various ratios, w/w) were optimized first by one parameter at time approach and then obtained optimum conditions were considered as zero level in evolutionary optimization factorial design technique. At statistically optimized conditions yield of laccase was found 303.59+16.8) U/gds after 13 days of incubation at 25 ºC taking wheat bran and neem bark as substrate at a ratio of 3:2 (w/w). The results obtained could be a base line for industrial scale production of laccase.

Antifungal efficacy of Azadirachta indica (neem) - An in vitro study

AIM: To evaluate antimicrobial ability of neem leaf extract, 3% sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl) and 2% chlorhexidine (CHX) against Candida albicans. METHODS: Neem leaf extract was prepared by using absolute ethanol with fresh neem leaves, filtering the extract through muslin cloth, coarse residue and filter paper. Cultures of C. albicans were maintained on Brain Heart Infusion broth and Agar. The antimicrobial efficacy was checked using the Agar Diffusion and the zones of inhibition were measured. The results were statistically analysed using ANOVA test. Inter-group comparison was checked using Kruskal Wallis ANOVA and Mann Whitney tests (a=0.05). RESULTS: There was statistically significant difference between the zones of inhibition seen with 3% NaOCl and Neem extract with 2% CHX (p<0.05). There was no significant difference observed between Neem extract and 3% NaOCl. CONCLUSIONS: Efficacy of Neem extract is comparable to 3% NaOCl against C. albicans and it is significantly better than 2% CHX...