Croton stipulaceus Kunth, a native Mexican medicinal plant with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities / Croton stipulaceus Kunth, planta medicinal mexicana con actividad antioxidante y antiinflamatoria

Leaves of Croton stipulaceuswere extracted (EHex, ECHCl3and EEtOH extracts) to assesstheir antioxidant potential, anti-inflammatory activity in murine models and acute toxicity. EEtOH showed the highest effect in DPPH (37.80% inhibition), FRAP (1065.00 ± 55.30 µmolFe2+) and total polyphenols (231.24 ± 9.05 meq AG/gM). EHex was the most active, ~ 50% inhibition of TPA-induced ear edema; while EEtOH (dose of 2 mg/ear) showed the highest inhibition in the chronic model (97% inhibition), and inhibited MPO activity (48%). In carrageenan-induced edema, ECHCl3(dose 500 mg/kg) was the most active. None of the extracts showed acute toxicity (LD50) at 2 g/kg (p.o.). This work is the first report that supports the traditional use of C. stipulaceusas an anti-inflammatory.

De las hojas de Croton stipulaceusse obtuvieron diferentes extractos (EHex, ECHCl3y EEtOH) evaluando el potencial antioxidante y la actividad antiinflamatoria en modelos murinos y la toxicidad aguda. El EEtOH mostró mayor efecto en DPPH (37.80% inhibición), FRAP (1065.00 ± 55.30 µmolFe2+) y polifenolestotales (231.24 ± 9.05 meq AG/gM). El EHex fue el más activo, cercano al 50% de inhibición del edema auricular inducido con TPA; mientras que el EEtOH (dosis de 2 mg/oreja) mostró la mayor inhibición en el modelo crónico (97% inhibición), e inhibió la actividad de la MPO (48%). En el edema inducido con carragenina, el ECHCl3(dosis 500 mg/kg) fue el más activo. Ninguno de los extractos mostró una toxicidad aguda (DL50) mayor a 2 g/kg (p.o). Este trabajo es el primer reporte que sustenta el uso tradicional de C. stipulaceuscomo antiinflamatorio.

Characterisation and traceability of extra virgin olive oil and table olive of Azapa variety marketed in Chile using Microsatellite Molecular Markers / Caracterización y trazabilidad de aceite de oliva virgen extra y aceituna de mesa de la variedad Azapa comercializados en Chile mediante marcadores moleculares microsatélites

Chile has two certified origin olive products: Extra-Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO) from Huasco valley and the Azapa variety table olive from the Azapa valley. However, efficient methodologies are needed to determine the varieties and raw materials involved in the end products. In this study, we assessed the size of alleles from ten microsatellites in 20 EVOOs and in leaves and fruits of 16 olive varieties cultivated in Chile to authenticate their origins. The identification of varieties relied on specific allele sizes derived from microsatellites markers UDO99-011 and DCA18-M found in leaves and fruit mesocarp. While most Chilean single-variety EVOOs matched the variety declared on the label, inconsistencies were observed in single-variety EVOOs containing multiple varieties. Our findings confirm that microsatellites serve as a valuable as diagnostic tools for ensuring the quality control of Geographical Indication certification for Azapa olives and EVOO with Designation of Origin from Huasco.

Chile cuenta con dos productos de oliva de origen certificado: El aceite de oliva virgen extra (AOVE) del valle del Huasco y la aceituna de mesa de la variedad Azapa del valle de Azapa. Sin embargo, se necesitan metodologías eficientes para determinar las variedades y materias primas involucradas en los productos finales. En este estudio, evaluamos el tamaño de los alelos de diez microsatélites en 20 AOVEs y en hojas y frutos de 16 variedades de aceituna cultivadas en Chile para autentificar sus orígenes. La identificación de las variedades se basó en los tamaños alélicos específicos derivados de los marcadores microsatélites UDO99-011 y DCA18-M encontrados en las hojas y el mesocarpio de los frutos. Aunque la mayoría de los AOVEs chilenos monovarietales coincidían con la variedad declarada en la etiqueta, se observaron incoherencias en los AOVEs monovarietales que contenían múltiples variedades. Nuestros hallazgos confirman que los microsatélites sirven como valiosas herramientas de diagnóstico para asegurar el control de calidad de la certificación de Indicación Geográfica para aceitunas de Azapa y AOVE con Denominación de Origen de Huasco.

Structural and compositional shifts in Cerrado fragments in up to 11 years monitoring

The Cerrado has a wide diversity of fauna and flora, and the knowledge of its horizontal structure, in different time intervals allows the prediction of its structural and floristic characteristics. The aim of this study was to evaluate the changes in structure and composition of tree community in three fragments of Cerrado with low anthropization, in an interval of 11 years at Minas Gerais state. Rectangular plots of fixed size were sampled, measuring stem diameter and height of all living arboreal individuals with diameter at 1.30 meters above ground (DBH) ≥ 5 cm. The tree vegetation dynamics study of the areas was performed, as well as the floristic analysis and the diametric structure. Considering all fragments and years of measurement, the recruitment of trees surpassed its mortality. The basal area varied between 3.67 and 13.07 m².ha-1. The studied areas, considering all fragments and years of measurement, showed a Shannon diversity index (H') from 3.43 to 3.87 nat.ind-1 and Pielou equitability index (J') ranged an interval between 0.77 and 0.82. The similarity calculated by the Jaccard index (J), when performed per plot considering the three fragments, showed a value of 0.2653. Also, related to the development and growth of the study areas, it can be inferred that all fragments and their respective years of measurement had a J-inverse pattern. In conclusion, it can be inferred that the three fragments maintained a representative growth in number of individuals and basal area.

Man-made soil drainage alters the vegetation structure and woody species distribution in campo de murundus

Campos de murundus work as recharge zones and are important for the maintenance of water resources in Brazilian Cerrado. However, with the expansion of the agricultural frontier, this ecosystem may disappear or suffer high anthropogenic disturbances. The aim of the study was to evaluate the structure and distribution of woody species, after the implantation of artificial drainage channels in campo de murundus, in plots near and distant of the drains in the soil. We sampled woody individuals with ≥ 3 cm diameter at the base, and established 20 permanent plots of 20×50 m, 10 of which were between 0-20 m of the drains (edge) and 10 between 150-200 m distant from the drains (interior), totaling two hectares of survey. We recorded 47 species with total density of 230.5 ind.ha-1 and total basal area of 1.331 m2 ha-1. The diversity index of species was H’ = 3.18. We recorded higher density and basal area in the edge, and differential distribution and occupation of woody species in the microrelief of the murundus. This provides us strong evidence that the drains have altered the vegetation structure, especially in the edge of the remnant campos de murundus turning the vegetation woodier and denser.

Antioxidant potential of different grape cultivars against Fenton-like reagent-induced liver damage ex-vivo.

The phytochemicals present in the grapes are responsible for nutraceutical and health benfits due to their antioxidant properties. These phytochemicals, however, vary greatly among different cultivars. In this study, we evaluated the antioxidant potential and protective role of four different Indian grape (Vitis vinifera) cultivars extracts, namely Flame seedless (Black grapes), Kishmish chorni (Black with reddish brown), Red globe (Red) and Thompson seedless mutant (Sonaka, Green) against the Fenton-like reagent (200 mmole H2O2, 2 mmole ascorbate, 25 mmole FeSO4)-induced liver damage. Non-enzymatic antioxidants, such as glutathione (GSH) levels and activities of antioxidant enzymes, such as glutathione S-transferase (GST) and superoxide dismutase (SOD), as well as total antioxidant capacity (TAC) were highest in the grape seed, followed by skin and pulp. Among edible parts of different cultivars, skin of Flame seedless (Black) cultivar showed highest antioxidant potential, while the Thompson seedless the least potential. These antioxidants were found to be significantly (P<0.01) correlated with the levels of total phenol, flavonoids and ascorbic acid. Fenton-like reagent treatment significantly (P<0.001) decreased GSH content by 39.1% and activities of catalase (CAT) by 43.2% and glutathione reductase (GR) by 60%, while increasing thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) and nitric oxide levels by 2.13-fold and 0.64-fold, respectively and GST activity by 0.81-fold. Pre-treatment with grape seed extracts showed the best hepatoprotective action against Fenton-like reagent-induced damage, followed by the extracts of skin and pulp of any cultivar. Thus, our study showed the significant amounts of antioxidants were in grape seed, followed by its skin and pulp, which varied among the cultivars and was associated with the protective action of grape extracts against Fenton-like reagent-induced liver damage ex-vivo.

Women survivors of intimate partner violence: the difficult transition to independence / Mujeres supervivientes de la violencia ejercida por sus parejas: la difícil transición hacia la autonomía / Mulheres sobreviventes de violência exercida por parceiros íntimos – a difícil transição para a autonomia

Objective To understand the trajectories that women go through from entering into to leaving relationships involving intimate partner violence (IPV), and identify the stages of the transition process. Method We utilized a constructivist paradigm based on grounded theory. We ensured that the ethical guidelines of the World Health Organization for research on domestic violence were followed. The analysis focused on narratives of 28 women survivors of IPV, obtained from in-depth interviews. Results The results showed that the trajectories experienced by women were marked by gender issues, (self) silencing, hope and suffering, which continued after the end of the IPV. Conclusion The transition process consists of four stages: entry - falls in love and becomes trapped; maintenance - silences own self, consents and remains in the relationship; decides to leave - faces the problems and struggles to be rescued; (re) balance - (re) finds herself with a new life. This (long) process was developed by wanting (and being able to have) self-determination. .

Objetivo Conhecer as trajetórias que as mulheres percorrem desde a entrada até à saída de relações de violência exercida por parceiros íntimos (VPI), e identificar as fases do processo de transição. Método Utilizou-se um paradigma construtivista com recurso à grounded theory. Salvaguardaram-se as orientações éticas da OMS em matéria de investigação sobre violência doméstica. A análise centrou-se em narrativas de 28 mulheres sobreviventes de VPI, obtidas em entrevistas em profundidade. Resultados Referem que as trajetórias percorridas pelas mulheres foram atravessadas por questões de género, (auto)silenciamento, esperança e sofrimento, o que ultrapassou o fim da VPI. Conclusión O processo de transição é constituído por quatro fases: entrada - enamora-se e fica aprisionada; manutenção - auto-silencia-se, consente e permanece na relação; decisão de saída - enfrenta o problema e luta pelo resgate; (re)equilíbrio - (re)encontra-se com uma nova vida. Este (longo) processo foi atravessado por querer (e poder) autodeterminar-se. .

Objetivo Conhecer as trajetórias que as mulheres percorrem desde a entrada até à saída de relações de violência exercida por parceiros íntimos (VPI), e identificar as fases do processo de transição. Método Utilizou-se um paradigma construtivista com recurso à grounded theory. Salvaguardaram-se as orientações éticas da OMS em matéria de investigação sobre violência doméstica. A análise centrou-se em narrativas de 28 mulheres sobreviventes de VPI, obtidas em entrevistas em profundidade. Resultados Referem que as trajetórias percorridas pelas mulheres foram atravessadas por questões de género, (auto)silenciamento, esperança e sofrimento, o que ultrapassou o fim da VPI. Conclusão O processo de transição é constituído por quatro fases: entrada - enamora-se e fica aprisionada; manutenção - auto-silencia-se, consente e permanece na relação; decisão de saída - enfrenta o problema e luta pelo resgate; (re)equilíbrio - (re)encontra-se com uma nova vida. Este (longo) processo foi atravessado por querer (e poder) autodeterminar-se. .

Effect of aqueous and alcoholic extracts of roots of Ferula gummosa Boiss. on the growth of Pseudomonas aeruginosa

Ferula gummosa Boiss. [Barije.] contain medical and antimicrobial properties. This study was done to determine the effect of aqueous and alcoholic extracts of roots of Ferula gummosa Boiss. on the growth of Pseudomonas aeruginosa. In this laboratory study, the plant was dried in dark place and aqueous, alcoholic extracts of Barije's root, powder were prepared using Soxhlet method. The efficacy of 0.1 dilution of different values of extracts of Ferula gummosa Boiss. on the strain of Pseudomonas aeruginosa [PTCC 1430] were evaluated by disk diffusion, Agar-well diffusion, minimum inhibitory concentration [MIC] and minimum bactericidal concentration [MBC] methods. Pseudomonas aeruginosa was completely resistant to the aqueous extract, and the MIC for the methanol and ethanol extracts was 1.25x10[4] microg/ml and 6.25x10[3] microg/ml, respectively. Methanolic and ethanolic extracts of Ferula gummosa Boiss. have antimicrobial activity against Pseudomonas aeruginosa in in-vitro model

Estruturas secretoras em órgãos vegetativos e florais de Secondatia densiflora A. DC. (Apocynaceae - Apocynoideae - Odontadenieae) / Secretory structures in vegetative and floral organs of Secondatia densiflora A. DC. (Apocynaceae - Apocynoideae - Odontadenieae)

A família Apocynaceae é caracterizada por possuir grande diversidade de estruturas secretoras como idioblastos, coléteres, laticíferos e nectários florais. Este estudo teve por objetivo caracterizar anatomicamente as estruturas secretoras nos órgãos vegetativos e reprodutivos de Secondatia densiflora e identificar as principais classes de compostos químicos nos idioblastos e na secreção dos coléteres vegetativos. Os idioblastos estão distribuídos por todos os órgãos aéreos da planta possuindo conteúdo na maioria das vezes denso e fortemente corado pela safranina. Alguns idioblastos apresentam secreção de aspecto granulado. Os testes histoquímicos evidenciaram apenas compostos fenólicos. Os laticíferos são do tipo anastomosado podendo ser observados em todos os órgãos estudados e identificados pelo conteúdo diferenciado e, em alguns casos, pela presença de paredes celulares mais espessas que as paredes das células parenquimáticas. O látex tem cor branca e aspecto leitoso, sendo extravasado logo que a planta é lesionada. Os coléteres vegetativos são do tipo padrão, formados por uma porção alongada que se afina em direção à extremidade. A epiderme secretora em paliçada delimita uma região parenquimática e o curto pedúnculo é coberto por epiderme não secretora de formato retangular. Todo coléter é recoberto por cutícula fina. A mucilagem é constatada tanto no interior das células secretoras quanto no meio extracelular pelo vermelho de rutênio e pela reação PAS. Os nectários florais têm origem receptacular, possuem uma epiderme que reveste toda estrutura, parênquima nectarífero, e feixes vasculares; são fundidos na base e livres na região apical constituindo cinco unidades distintas.

The family Apocynaceae is characterized for showing a wide variety of secretory structures such as idioblasts, colleters, laticiferous glands and floral nectaries. The present study aimed to anatomically characterize the secretory structures in vegetative and reproductive organs of Secondatia densiflora and to identify the major classes of chemical compounds in idioblasts and in the secretion of vegetative colleters. Idioblasts are distributed all over the aerial organs of the plant and their content is usually dense and strongly stained with safranin. Some idioblasts have secretion of granulated aspect. Histochemical tests evidenced phenolic compounds only. Laticiferous glands are of the anastomosed type and can be seen in all the studied organs and identified by their distinct content and, in some cases, by the presence of cell walls that are thicker than those of parenchyma cells. Latex is white, milky and leaks as the plant is injured. Vegetative colleters are of the standard type and formed of an elongated portion that becomes thinner towards the end. The secretory palisade epidermis delimits a parenchymatic region, while the short peduncle is covered by rectangular non-secretory epidermis. A thin cuticle covers the entire colleter. Mucilage is detected both inside the secretory cells and in the extracellular medium by ruthenium red staining and PAS reaction. Floral nectaries have receptacular origin and epidermis covering their entire structure, nectariferous parenchyma, and vascular bundles; they are fused at their bases but have free apical region, forming five distinct units.

Comparative study of the areas of osteochondral defects produced in the femoral condyles of rabbits treated with gel of sugarcane biopolymer / Estudo comparativo das áreas de defeitos osteocondrais produzidas nos côndilos femorais de coelhos tratados com gel de biopolímero de cana

PURPOSE: To measure the healed areas of osteochondral defects produced in femoral condyles of rabbits filled with biopolymer sugar cane gel and to compare these with those of the control group at 90, 120 and 180 days. METHODS: A study was made of 16 New Zealand rabbits, 6 and 7 months old, weighing between 2 and 2.5 kg. Defects of 3.2 x 4 mm were made, with trephine, in the femoral condyles of the right and left knees. As to the study group defects of the medial and lateral condyles of the right knee were used which were filled with Biopolymer Sugar Cane Gel; as to the Control Group defects of the medial and lateral condyles of the left t knees were used which were left open for natural healing. The defects were analyzed at 90, 120 and 180 days after surgery. After euthanasia, the knees were removed and fixed in Bouin's solution for later digital photographic documentation with a digital camera. The areas healed were measured in both the study and control groups using the images obtained from an Image-J® program. Statistical analysis was conducted using the non-parametric Mann-Whitney test. RESULTS: There were no significant differences between the means of the healed areas in the study and control groups at 90, 120 and 180 days after surgery. CONCLUSION: The dimension of the healed areas of the defects treated with the biopolymer sugar-cane gel in the study group was similar to those of the control group, which healed naturally.

OBJETIVO: Mensurar as áreas cicatrizadas dos defeitos osteocondrais produzidos em côndilos femorais de coelhos preenchidos com gel de biopolímero da cana-de-açúcar e comparar com o grupo controle nos períodos de 90, 120 e 180 dias. MÉTODOS: Foram estudados, 16 coelhos da raça Nova Zelândia com seis a sete meses de idade, entre 2,0 e 2,5 kg de peso. Foram feitos, com trefina, defeitos de 3,2 x 4 mm nos côndilos femorais dos joelhos direito e esquerdo. Como grupo de estudo foram utilizados os defeitos dos côndilos medial e lateral dos joelhos direito que foram preenchidos com gel de biopolímero da cana-de-açucar. Como grupo controle foram utilizados os defeitos dos côndilos medial e lateral dos joelhos esquerdos que foram deixados abertos para cicatrização natural. Os defeitos foram analisados nos períodos de 90, 120 e 180 dias após a cirurgia. Após a eutanásia, os joelhos foram retirados e fixados em solução de Bouin para posterior documentação fotográfica com maquina digital Nikon Coopix® 5400. As áreas cicatrizadas foram mensuradas nos grupos estudo e controle, através das imagens obtidas com o programa Image-J®. A análise estatística foi feita aplicando-se o teste não paramétrico Mann-Whitney. RESULTADOS: Não houve diferenças significantes entre as médias das áreas cicatrizadas nos grupos estudo e controle nos períodos de 90, 120 e 180 dias após a cirurgia. CONCLUSÃO: A dimensão das áreas cicatrizadas dos defeitos tratados com o gel do biopolímero da cana-de-açúcar, grupo de estudo foi semelhante as do grupo controle, cicatrizadas naturalmente.

A simple ethanol wash of the tissue homogenates recovers high-quality genomic DNA from Corchorus species characterized by highly acidic and proteinaceous mucilages

A simple miniprep based on early elimination of highly acidic and proteinaceous mucilages through ethanol washing of the tissue homogenates has been developed for the extraction of genomic DNA from mature leaves and seeds of Corchorus spp. As compared to high cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB)-NaCl DNA extraction followed by ethanol-based removal of remnant mucilages from the DNA pellet, this simple miniprep consistently and reproducibly recovers high amounts of DNA with good spectral qualities at A260/A280 and A260/A230. The purified DNA is efficiently digested by restriction endonucleases, and is suitable for PCR amplification of nuclear microsatellites with expected allele sizes.

Influência da adubação e da cobertura morta na produtividade e no teor de flavonóides de Calendula officinalis L. (Asteraceae) / Influence of fertilization and mulching on the productivity and flavonoid content of Calendula officinalis L. (Asteraceae)

Desenvolveu-se ensaio de cultivo de Calendula officinalis, variando-se os tipos de adubação e utilização de cobertura morta na observação da produção de inflorescências, droga vegetal e quantificação dos flavonóides presentes nestes materiais.O delineamento experimental adotado foi de blocos casualizados com 3 repetições, em arranjo fatorial de 3 x 2, constituído de seis tratamentos, sendo 1. adubação química (100 kg de N ha-1 + 50 kg de P ha-1); 2. adubação química + cobertura morta (grama seca - Paspalum notatum); 3. adubação orgânica (esterco bovino curtido 50 t ha-1); 4. adubação orgânica + cobertura morta; 5. sem adubação química ou orgânica + cobertura morta; 6. sem adubação química ou orgânica e sem cobertura morta (testemunha). Os resultados de número capítulos produzidos, massa seca das inflorescências e massa da droga vegetal foram totalizados após cinco meses do plantio. A quantificação de flavonóides foi realizada através de método espectrofotométrico. Os dados foram analisados estatisticamente (ANOVA/Teste Tukey-Kramer-5 por cento) e mostraram diferenças significativas (70 por cento superior) no número de inflorescências, massa seca das inflorescências e massa da droga vegetal entre o tratamento com adubação orgânica (3) e os tratamentos sem adubação química ou orgânica com cobertura morta (5) e o testemunha (6). As demais comparações, inclusive o teor de flavonóides, entre os diversos tratamentos não resultaram em diferenças significativas.

Calendula officinalis was experimentally grown under field conditions with different fertilization types and mulching in order to evaluate inflorescence production, plant drugs and flavonoid levels. Experimental design was in randomized blocks, with 3 replicates, in a 3x2 factorial arrangement, consisting of six treatments, as follows: 1. chemical fertilization (100 kg N ha-1 + 50 kg P ha-1); 2. chemical fertilization + mulch (dry grass - Paspalum notatum); 3. organic fertilization (cured bovine manure 50 t ha-1); 4. organic fertilization + mulch; 5. no chemical or organic fertilization + mulch; 6. no chemical or organic fertilization and no mulch (control). Data regarding number of produced capitula, dry matter of inflorescences and plant drug matter were totaled after five months of planting. Flavonoids were quantified by spectrophotometry. The results were statistically analyzed (ANOVA / Tukey-Kramer test-5 percent) and showed significant differences (70 percent higher) for number of inflorescences, inflorescence dry matter and plant drug matter between the treatment with organic fertilization (3) and treatments with no chemical or organic fertilization with mulching (5) and control (6). The remaining comparisons, including flavonoid content, did not result in significant differences among treatments.

Differential inhibitory potencies of alcoholic extract of different parts of Dryopteris chrysocoma on inflammation in mice and rats

Phytomedicinal therapy for inflammation is not new and it is highly effective for the treatment of various inflammatory disorders. The inflammation is one of the initial parameter for most of the disorders occurring in the body. The anti-inflammatory potential can be determined by using various techniques. Dryopteris chrysocoma is a male fern commonly found in damp and moist areas of Pakistan. The study was conducted on mice and rats by inducing inflammation with subcutaneous administration of formalin and Carrageenan in hind paw. The results were compared with standard drug Aspirin administered orally in the dose of 300 mg/kg and a decrease in hind paw volume was observed. The intensity of edema was observed in mice after formalin injection and the time of disappearance of edema was observed. In rats the inhibition of inflammation by root, leaves and stem extract was 51.19%, 41.66% and 30.95% respectively after administration of formalin. Similar inhibition of inflammation produced by root, leaves and stem extracts i.e. 57%, 42% and 35% respectively in Carrageenan treated rats. Root extract showed the highly significant results at p

Longevidade pós-colheita de alpínia [Alpinia purpurata (Vieill.) K. Schum.] tratada com soluções de sacarose e extratos aquosos naturais / Postharvest longevity of red ginger [Alpinia purpurata (Vieill.) K. Schum.] treated with sucrose solutions and natural water extracts

A alpínia (Alpinia purpurata) é uma planta tropical encontrada em diversas regiões do Brasil com excelente potencial para a comercialização como flor de corte. Entretanto, a senescência das hastes pela exaustão da sacarose é um dos principais fatores que afetam a durabilidade comercial, sendo suprimida através da adição de sacarose nas soluções de pulsing. O presente trabalho objetivou avaliar o efeito de extratos aquosos de estévia (Stevia rebaudiana), anis estrelado (Illicium verum) e sacarose em solução de pulsing na manutenção da qualidade pós-colheita de inflorescências de alpínia. Hastes florais uniformizadas em tamanho foram submetidas à solução de pulsing, por 12 horas, nas concentrações de 0,5; 1,0; 2,0 e 3,0 por cento, tendo água destilada como controle. A melhor qualidade comercial das inflorescências foi obtida quando as hastes foram colocadas em pulsing em extratos de anis estrelado e estévia 1 por cento e em solução de sacarose 2 por cento, não apresentando diferença estatística entre si. A longevidade total das hastes não foi influenciada pelos tratamentos. A solução de sacarose pode ser substituída pelos extratos das plantas medicinais estudadas, na conservação pós-colheita de inflorescências de alpínia.

Red ginger (Alpinia purpurata) is a tropical plant found in several Brazilian regions with excellent potential for commercialization as cut flower. However, the senescence of flower stems due to the exhaustion of sucrose is a major factor that affects commercial durability and is suppressed through addition of sucrose in pulsing solutions. The aim of this work was to evaluate the effect of water extracts from stevia (Stevia rebaudiana), star anise (Illicium verum) and sucrose in pulsing solution on the postharvest quality maintenance of red ginger inflorescences. Flower stems of uniform size were subjected to the pulsing solution for 12h at 0.5, 1.0, 2.0 and 3.0 percent concentrations, with distilled water as control. The best commercial quality of inflorescences was obtained when flower stems were kept in pulsing solutions from 1 percent star anise and stevia extracts and in 2 percent sucrose solution, not presenting statistical difference. Total longevity of flower stems was not influenced by treatments. Sucrose solution may be replaced by extracts of the studied medicinal plants in the postharvest conservation of red ginger inflorescences.

Chemical composition and antifungal activity of Hyptis suaveolens (L. ) poit leaves essential oil against Aspergillus species

This study aimed to identify the constituents of the essential oil from Hyptis suaveolens (L.) leaves using a Gas Chromatograph -Mass Spectrometer and assess its inhibitory effect on some potentially pathogenic Aspergilli (A. flavus, A. parasiticus, A. ochraceus, A. fumigatus and A. niger). Eucaliptol (47.64 percent) was the most abundant component in the oil, followed for gama-ellemene (8.15 percent), beta-pynene (6.55 percent), (+)3-carene (5.16 percent), trans-beta-cariophyllene (4.69 percent) and germacrene (4.86 percent). The essential oil revealed an interesting anti-Aspergillus property characterized by a Minimum Inhibitory Concentration and Minimum Fungicidal Concentration of 40 and 80 µL/mL, respectively. The oil at 80 and 40 µL/mL strongly inhibited the mycelial growth of A. fumigatus and A. parasiticus along 14 days. In addition, at 10 and 20 µL/mL the oil was able to cause morphological changes in A. flavus as decreased conidiation, leakage of cytoplasm, loss of pigmentation and disrupted cell structure suggesting fungal wall degeneration. These findings showed the interesting anti-Aspergillus property of H. suaveolens leaves essential oil supporting its possible rational use as alternative source of new antifungal compounds to be applied in the aspergillosis treatment.

[Polyphenolics, flavonoids and anthocyanins content and antioxidant activity of qare-qat [vaccinium arctostaphylos L.] from different areas of Iran]

Vaccinium arctostaphylos L. [Ericaceae family], locally named Qare-Qat is a shurb or woody bush which has been extensively used in Iranian folk medicine as antidiabetic and antihypertensitive agents for many years. Phenolics found in leaves and fruits of the plant are a specific group of secondary metabolites that plays an important role of antioxidant activity. Comparative study of phenolics, anthocyanins and flavonoids contents in V. arctostaphylos methanolic extracts and evaluation of antioxidant activities. Leaves and fruits of V. arctostaphylos have been collected from the high altitude areas of Ardabil [Hoor], Gilan [Masouleh and Asalem] and Mazandaran [Kelardasht] provinces in August 2007 and stored at-80°C until metabolites analysis. Then extraction was carried out with acidified methanol and the mixture was used for antioxidant activity and phenolics content assays by UV-Vis spectrophotometer. The data indicated that fruits of Kelardasht genotype had the highest total phenolics content as gallic acid [42.73 +/- 1.5 mg g[-1] DW], anthocyanin content as cyaniding-3-glucoside [1.0 +/- 0.07 mg g[-1]] and antioxidant activity [DPPH assay] of fruits of Kelardasht [IC[50]: 0.14 +/- 0.07 mg ml[-1]] were highest in comparison to other genotypes. Leaves of Masouleh genotype had the highest flavonoid content as quercetin [2.9 +/- 0.07 mg g[-1] DW]. It could be concluded that the leaves and fruits of V. arctostaphylos have high amount of phenolics and antioxidant activity. Therefore, this plant can be a potential source of antioxidant compounds for food and pharmaceutical industry

[Investigation and comparison of juniperus polycarpos and juniperus communis essential oil from Golestan province]

Juniperus polycarpos L. and Juniperus communis L. are two of the most important conifers in Iran and tolerant trees against cold and drought stresses which have noticeable important in mountainous areas in Iran. In this study, the essential been tried to compare quantities and qualities characteristics of oil and efficacious materials of their female cone together has been studied. This research is trying to quantitative and qualitative characteristics of essential oil active ingredients and compares them with material cones and evaluate. In order to analysis of essentials oil, female cones were detected after distillation by GC-MS. The results indicated that efficacious materials of these plants were different, significantly. In J. polycarpos 30 compounds were detected that the most important of the 4-terpine ol [17.72%], limonene [9.53%], sabinene [8.58%], gamma-terpinene [8.10%] and delta-cadinene [7.13%] 27 compounds were identified in J. communis that the most important of them were alpha-pinene [46.63%], alpha-cedrol [12.36%], alpha-pinene [4.64%], 4-terpineol [2.86%] and beta-terpinolen [2.45%], respectively

[Antibacterial activities of essential oil and composition of stachys acerosa boiss]

Stachys acerosa Boiss [Lamiaecae] is an endemic plant of Iran. Because there is no report about this plant and according to medicinal uses of another species of Stachys, in this investigation, chemical composition and antimicrobial acivity of essential oils of flowering and non flowering tops of S. acerosa were studied and the component with antimicrobial activity was identified. Flowering and non flowering tops of the plant were collected from Lalehzar [Kerman provience] and after drying their essential oils were obtained by Clevenger apparatus. The oils were analyzed by GC-MS apparatus and retention indices. Antimicrobial activities of essential oils against Staphylococcus aureus, S. epidermidis, Eshrichia coli, Bacillus subtillis, Kelebsiella pneumonia and Pseudomonas aeroginosa were investigated by bioautography method on silica gel GF[254] TLC plates developed in toluene: ethyl acetate [93:7]. Flowering and non flowering plants yielded 0.09% and 0.11% [v/w] of clear yellowish essential oil and chrysanthenyl acetate and linalool as were major constituents respectively. Most anitimicrobial activities, detected by TLC, showed in R[f]=0.5-0.6 in essential oil of non flowering tops and after extraction of this fraction from preparative TLC and GC-MS analysis, it showed that Carvacrol was the major compound. There are reports about antimicrobial activities of other Stachys species, and chrysanthenyl acetate and linalool as major constituents of essential oils in other species of Stachyes

Antimicrobial activity of samanea saman [Jacq.] Merr,

Phytochemical investigation and antimicrobial activity studies for the aqueous and alcoholic leaf, fruit and seed extracts of Samanea saman [Jacq.] Merr, were carried out. The phytochemical tests of various extracts revealed the presence of alkaloids, glycosides, carbohydrates, tannins, sterols, proteins and triterpenoids. The antibacterial and antifungal activities were tested against selected gram positive, gram negative bacteria and fungi. Zone of inhibition produced by these extracts were compared with the standard antibiotic [Ofloxacin 10 micro g/disc] and antifungal [Clotrimazole 10 micro g/disc] under the similar conditions. The activity index of antimicrobial activity was calculated by comparing the effect of all the extracts with the effect induced by the standards. The aqueous and alcoholic extracts of leaf and seeds showed moderate antibacterial activity whereas fruit extracts were found ineffective against bacteria. All the extracts of Samanea saman [Jacq.] Merr., were found inactive against fungi

Extract of gum resins of Boswellia serrata L. inhibits lipopolysaccharide induced nitric oxide production in rat macrophages along with hypolipidemic property.

Boswellia serrata, Linn F (Burseraceae) is commonly used in Indian system of medicine (Ayurvedic) as an anti-inflammatory, analgesic, anti-arthritic and anti-proliferative agent. This study was planned to investigate the water-soluble fraction of the oleoresin gum of Boswellia serrata (BS extract) on lipopolysaccharide (LPS) induced nitric oxide (NO) production by macrophages under in vivo and in vitro conditions. In the previous condition, rats were fed on atherogenic diet (2.5% cholesterol, 1% cholic acid, 15.7 % saturated fat) along with the BS extract for 90 days. Blood was collected for lipid profile and toxicological safety parameters. Peritoneal macrophages were isolated and cultured to see the LPS induced NO production. Under in vivo experiment, BS extract significantly reduced serum total cholesterol (38-48 %), increased serum high-density lipoprotein- cholesterol (HDL-cholesterol, 22-30%). Under in vitro experiments with thioglycolate activated macrophages, it inhibited LPS induced (NO) production with IC 50 value at 662 ng /ml. Further, this fraction, in the dose of 15 mg/100 g body wt for 90 days, did not show any increase in serum glutamate-pyruvate transaminase (SGPT) and blood urea, in normal control animals. However, it significantly reversed the raised SGPT and blood urea in the atherogenic diet-fed animals. Transverse section of liver and kidney also supported its protective effect. Thus it may be concluded that water extract of Boswellia serrata possesses strong hypocholesterolemic property along with increase in serum HDL. It inhibits the LPS induced NO production by the activated rat peritoneal macrophages and show hepato-protective and reno-protective property.

Effect of bromoxynil herbicide and gibberellic acid on growth characters, yield, chemical composition and associated weeds [chenopodium album L.] of fenugreek plants under salinity irrigation

Two pot experiments were conducted during the two successive seasons 1996/97 and 1997/98 in the green house of the National Research Centre, Dokki, Giza Govemorate to investigate the effect of salinity [control - 2000 and 4000 ppm], Bromoxynil herbicide at the rate of 1 L/fed. and GA 3 [50 ppm] and their interactions on fenugreek growth, yield and chemical composition in addition to their effect on associated weeds [Chenopodiwn albwn L.] The results indicated that in both seasons Bromoxynil alone or in combination with GA 3 under all salinity levels significantly depressed the growth of associated weeds [Chenopodiuin albwn L.] by decreasing their fresh and dry weights. The results also showed that there were significant increases in growth characters, yield, yield components and seed content of N, P, K, Fe, Zn, Mn, Cu, carbohydrate and protein% in seeds under 2000 ppm salinity level. However, increasing salinity level to 4000 ppm reduced the above mentioned characters except N, Fe, Mn, Zn content and protein% which increased by increasing salinity level. Bromoxynil, alone under all salinity levels showed an insignificant increase in characters which were studied. On the other hand, GA 3 alone or in combination with Bromoxynil gave a significant increase in growth, yield and chemical composition of fenugreek seeds. Spraying GA 3 on plants treated with Bromoxynil, under 2000 salinity level gave the highest values of growth parameters and yield of fenugreek plants