scholarly journals Potential of Citrullus colocynthis L. Schrad. Immature Seed Extracts as Food Preservative against a Fungal Mycotoxigenic Contaminant

2021 ◽  
Vol 2021 ◽  
pp. 1-9
Author(s):  
Francesca Mussi ◽  
Serena Montalbano ◽  
Belsem Marzouk ◽  
Laura Arru ◽  
Meher Refifa ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Native Species ◽  
Antioxidant Properties ◽  
Fungal Species ◽  
Aflatoxin Contamination ◽  
Food Preservation ◽  
Evolutionary Pathway ◽  
Food And Feed ◽  
History Of ◽  
Promise Land ◽  
History Of Use

The world of plant extracts and natural compounds have long been regarded as a promise land for the individuation of healthy alternatives to chemical preservatives, against microbial contamination, in food and feed commodities. A plethora of aromatic and medicinal plant species have been studied from decades to explore their antimicrobial and antioxidant properties, in order to both validate their ethnobotanical use for healing microbial illnesses and assess their suitability as food preservation agents. In fact, after terrestrialization and during the following evolutionary pathway, plants had to develop chemical compounds—constitutive and/or induced—for defence against specific pathogens, therefore becoming a potential source of new natural products usable with antimicrobial purposes. Aside from the most common contaminants that could occur in foodstuff, mycotoxigenic fungal species represent a big concern, mainly in cereals and derived products: aflatoxins in particular are the most dreaded among such toxic and cancerogenic secondary metabolites, and the control of the main producer Aspergillus flavus is currently one of the most pursued goals in the field of food safety. As aromatic and medicinal plants have a long history of use in the Mediterranean basin for both food preservation and pest control in crops, the exploitation of native species for the control of mycotoxigenic phytopathogens is almost rationale. The present work provides novel insights into the possible use of C. colocynthis seed organic extracts as antimycotoxigenic additives, demonstrating, for some of them, a feasible application as crop and food protectants with specific regard to aflatoxin contamination. Additionally, the evaluation of their cytotoxic potential and nitric oxide production on human cell lines has been reported for the first time.

scholarly journals Flavonoid Preparations from Taraxacum officinale L. Fruits—A Phytochemical, Antioxidant and Hemostasis Studies

Molecules ◽  
2020 ◽  
Vol 25 (22) ◽  
pp. 5402
Author(s):  
Bernadetta Lis ◽  
Dariusz Jedrejek ◽  
Joanna Rywaniak ◽  
Agata Soluch ◽  
Anna Stochmal ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Radical Scavenging Activity ◽  
Antioxidant Properties ◽  
Radical Scavenging ◽  
Taraxacum Officinale ◽  
Hydroxycinnamic Acids ◽  
Phytochemical Analysis ◽  
New Information ◽  
Biological Potential ◽  
History Of ◽  
History Of Use

Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale L.) roots, leaves, and flowers have a long history of use in traditional medicine. Compared to the above organs, dandelion fruits are the least known and used. Hence, the present paper was aimed at the phytochemical analysis of T. officinale fruit extract and estimating its antiradical, antiplatelet, and antioxidant properties related to hemostasis. Methanolic extract of fruits (E1), enriched with polyphenols (188 mg gallic acid equivalents (GAE)/g), was successfully separated into cinnamic acids (E2; 448 mg GAE/g) and flavonoids (E3; 377 mg GAE/g) extracts. Flavonoid extract was further divided into four fractions characterized by individual content: A (luteolin fraction; 880 mg GAE/g), B (philonotisflavone fraction; 516 mg GAE/g), C (flavonolignans fraction; 384 mg GAE/g), and D (flavone aglycones fraction; 632 mg GAE/g). High DPPH radical scavenging activity was evaluated for fractions A and B (A > B > Trolox), medium for extracts (Trolox > E3 > E2 > E1), and low for fractions C and D. No simple correlation between polyphenol content and antiradical activity was observed, indicating a significant influence of qualitative factor, including higher anti-oxidative effect of flavonoids with B-ring catechol system compared to hydroxycinnamic acids. No cytotoxic effect on platelets was observed for any dandelion preparation tested. In experiments on plasma and platelets, using several different parameters (lipid peroxidation, protein carbonylation, oxidation of thiols, and platelet adhesion), the highest antioxidant and antiplatelet potential was demonstrated by three fruit preparations–hydroxycinnamic acids extract (E2), flavonoid extract (E3), and luteolin fraction (A). The results of this paper provide new information on dandelion metabolites, as well as their biological potential and possible use concerning cardiovascular diseases.

scholarly journals Temperature Influences on Interactions Among Aflatoxigenic Species of Aspergillus Section Flavi During Maize Colonization

2021 ◽  
Vol 2 ◽  
Author(s):  
Connel Ching'anda ◽  
Joseph Atehnkeng ◽  
Ranajit Bandyopadhyay ◽  
Kenneth A. Callicott ◽  
Marc J. Orbach ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Species Interactions ◽  
Type Species ◽  
Animal Health ◽  
Aflatoxin Production ◽  
Fungal Species ◽  
Aflatoxin Contamination ◽  
Fungal Metabolites ◽  
Food And Feed ◽  
Temporal And Spatial ◽  
Maize Kernels

Fungal species within Aspergillus section Flavi contaminate food and feed with aflatoxins. These toxic fungal metabolites compromise human and animal health and disrupt trade. Genotypically and phenotypically diverse species co-infect crops, but temporal and spatial variation in frequencies of different lineages suggests that environmental factors such as temperature may influence structure of aflatoxin-producing fungal communities. Furthermore, though most species within Aspergillus section Flavi produce sclerotia, divergent sclerotial morphologies (small or S-type sclerotia vs. large or L-type sclerotia) and differences in types and quantities of aflatoxins produced suggest lineages are adapted to different life strategies. Temperature is a key parameter influencing pre- and post-harvest aflatoxin contamination of crops. We tested the hypothesis that species of aflatoxin-producing fungi that differ in sclerotial morphology will vary in competitive ability and that outcomes of competition and aflatoxin production will be modulated by temperature. Paired competition experiments between highly aflatoxigenic S-type species (A. aflatoxiformans and Lethal Aflatoxicosis Fungus) and L-type species (A. flavus L morphotype and A. parasiticus) were conducted on maize kernels at 25 and 30°C. Proportions of each isolate growing within and sporulating on kernels were measured using quantitative pyrosequencing. At 30°C, S-type fungi were more effective at host colonization compared to L-type isolates. Total aflatoxins and the proportion of B vs. G aflatoxins were greater at 30°C compared to 25°C. Sporulation by L-type isolates was reduced during competition with S-type fungi at 30°C, while relative quantities of conidia produced by S-type species either increased or did not change during competition. Results indicate that both species interactions and temperature can shape population structure of Aspergillus section Flavi, with warmer temperatures favoring growth and dispersal of highly toxigenic species with S-type sclerotia.

scholarly journals Jojoba Oil: An Updated Comprehensive Review on Chemistry, Pharmaceutical Uses, and Toxicity

Polymers ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 13 (11) ◽  
pp. 1711
Author(s):  
Heba A. Gad ◽  
Autumn Roberts ◽  
Samirah H. Hamzi ◽  
Haidy A. Gad ◽  
Ilham Touiss ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Industrial Applications ◽  
Literature Survey ◽  
Jojoba Oil ◽  
Pharmacological Activities ◽  
Wide Range ◽  
Liver Functions ◽  
History Of ◽  
History Of Use ◽  
Pharmaceutical Uses ◽  
Obesity And Cancer

Jojoba is a widely used medicinal plant that is cultivated worldwide. Its seeds and oil have a long history of use in folklore to treat various ailments, such as skin and scalp disorders, superficial wounds, sore throat, obesity, and cancer; for improvement of liver functions, enhancement of immunity, and promotion of hair growth. Extensive studies on Jojoba oil showed a wide range of pharmacological applications, including antioxidant, anti-acne and antipsoriasis, anti-inflammatory, antifungal, antipyretic, analgesic, antimicrobial, and anti-hyperglycemia activities. In addition, Jojoba oil is widely used in the pharmaceutical industry, especially in cosmetics for topical, transdermal, and parenteral preparations. Jojoba oil also holds value in the industry as an anti-rodent, insecticides, lubricant, surfactant, and a source for the production of bioenergy. Jojoba oil is considered among the top-ranked oils due to its wax, which constitutes about 98% (mainly wax esters, few free fatty acids, alcohols, and hydrocarbons). In addition, sterols and vitamins with few triglyceride esters, flavonoids, phenolic and cyanogenic compounds are also present. The present review represents an updated literature survey about the chemical composition of jojoba oil, its physical properties, pharmacological activities, pharmaceutical and industrial applications, and toxicity.

scholarly journals Aflatoxin contamination in food crops: causes, detection, and management: a review

2021 ◽  
Vol 3 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Abhishek Kumar ◽  
Hardik Pathak ◽  
Seema Bhadauria ◽  
Jebi Sudan
Keyword(s):  
High Temperature ◽  
Aspergillus Parasiticus ◽  
Fungal Species ◽  
Aflatoxin Contamination ◽  
Food Crops ◽  
Farming Practices ◽  
Resistant Varieties ◽  
Food Commodities ◽  
Post Harvesting ◽  
Favorable Conditions

AbstractMycotoxins are secondary metabolites produced by several fungal species and molds. Under favorable conditions like high temperature and moisture, they contaminate a large number of food commodities and regional crops during pre and post-harvesting. Aflatoxin is the main mycotoxin that harm animal and human health due to its carcinogenic nature. Aflatoxins are mainly released by Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus parasiticus. AFB1 constitutes the most harmful type of aflatoxins and is a potent hepato-carcinogenic, mutagenic, teratogenic and it suppresses the immune system. To maintain food safety and to prevent aflatoxin contamination in food crops, combined approaches of using resistant varieties along with recommended farming practices should be followed. This review concentrates on various aspects of mycotoxin contamination in crops and recent methods to prevent or minimize the contamination.

scholarly journals The Botanical, Chemical and Ethnobotanical Diversity of Southern African Lamiaceae

Molecules ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 26 (12) ◽  
pp. 3712
Author(s):  
Ryan D. Rattray ◽  
Ben-Erik Van Wyk
Keyword(s):  
Southern Africa ◽  
Folk Medicine ◽  
Taxonomic Diversity ◽  
Volatile Oils ◽  
Edible Plant ◽  
Flora Of Southern Africa ◽  
Traditional Uses ◽  
History Of ◽  
Pharmaceutical Industries ◽  
History Of Use

The Lamiaceae is undoubtedly an important plant family, having a rich history of use that spans the globe with many species being used in folk medicine and modern industries alike. Their ability to produce aromatic volatile oils has made them valuable sources of materials in the cosmetic, culinary, and pharmaceutical industries. A thorough account of the taxonomic diversity, chemistry and ethnobotany is lacking for southern African Lamiaceae, which feature some of the region’s most notable medicinal and edible plant species. We provide a comprehensive insight into the Lamiaceae flora of southern Africa, comprising 297 species in 42 genera, 105 of which are endemic to the subcontinent. We further explore the medicinal and traditional uses, where all genera with documented uses are covered for the region. A broad review of the chemistry of southern African Lamiaceae is presented, noting that only 101 species (34%) have been investigated chemically (either their volatile oils or phytochemical characterization of secondary metabolites), thus presenting many and varied opportunities for further studies. The main aim of our study was therefore to present an up-to-date account of the botany, chemistry and traditional uses of the family in southern Africa, and to identify obvious knowledge gaps.

scholarly journals Nanomedicine Reformulation of Chloroquine and Hydroxychloroquine

Molecules ◽  
2020 ◽  
Vol 26 (1) ◽  
pp. 175
Author(s):  
David M. Stevens ◽  
Rachael M. Crist ◽  
Stephan T. Stern
Keyword(s):  
Safety Evaluation ◽  
Therapeutic Index ◽  
Short Term ◽  
Tissue Concentrations ◽  
History Of ◽  
History Of Use ◽  
Novel Applications ◽  
Therapeutic Doses ◽  
Extensive Clinical Experience ◽  
Higher Doses

The chloroquine family of antimalarials has a long history of use, spanning many decades. Despite this extensive clinical experience, novel applications, including use in autoimmune disorders, infectious disease, and cancer, have only recently been identified. While short term use of chloroquine or hydroxychloroquine is safe at traditional therapeutic doses in patients without predisposing conditions, administration of higher doses and for longer durations are associated with toxicity, including retinotoxicity. Additional liabilities of these medications include pharmacokinetic profiles that require extended dosing to achieve therapeutic tissue concentrations. To improve chloroquine therapy, researchers have turned toward nanomedicine reformulation of chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine to increase exposure of target tissues relative to off-target tissues, thereby improving the therapeutic index. This review highlights these reformulation efforts to date, identifying issues in experimental designs leading to ambiguity regarding the nanoformulation improvements and lack of thorough pharmacokinetics and safety evaluation. Gaps in our current understanding of these formulations, as well as recommendations for future formulation efforts, are presented.

scholarly journals Aquaculture Production of the Brown Seaweeds Laminaria digitata and Macrocystis pyrifera: Applications in Food and Pharmaceuticals

Molecules ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 26 (5) ◽  
pp. 1306
Author(s):  
Diane Purcell-Meyerink ◽  
Michael A. Packer ◽  
Thomas T. Wheeler ◽  
Maria Hayes
Keyword(s):  
Dietary Supplements ◽  
Functional Foods ◽  
Folk Medicine ◽  
Macrocystis Pyrifera ◽  
Fish Feed ◽  
Laminaria Digitata ◽  
Brown Seaweeds ◽  
Commercial Potential ◽  
History Of ◽  
History Of Use

Seaweeds have a long history of use as food, as flavouring agents, and find use in traditional folk medicine. Seaweed products range from food, feed, and dietary supplements to pharmaceuticals, and from bioenergy intermediates to materials. At present, 98% of the seaweed required by the seaweed industry is provided by five genera and only ten species. The two brown kelp seaweeds Laminaria digitata, a native Irish species, and Macrocystis pyrifera, a native New Zealand species, are not included in these eleven species, although they have been used as dietary supplements and as animal and fish feed. The properties associated with the polysaccharides and proteins from these two species have resulted in increased interest in them, enabling their use as functional foods. Improvements and optimisations in aquaculture methods and bioproduct extractions are essential to realise the commercial potential of these seaweeds. Recent advances in optimising these processes are outlined in this review, as well as potential future applications of L. digitata and, to a greater extent, M. pyrifera which, to date, has been predominately only wild-harvested. These include bio-refinery processing to produce ingredients for nutricosmetics, functional foods, cosmeceuticals, and bioplastics. Areas that currently limit the commercial potential of these two species are highlighted.

The “Millstätter Predigten” (Millstatt Sermons), Petrus Berchorius, and Mechthild of Magdeburg

Daphnis ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 50 (1) ◽  
pp. 59-84
Author(s):  
Sabine Seelbach
Keyword(s):  
Cultural Memory ◽  
Educational History ◽  
Mechthild Of Magdeburg ◽  
The World ◽  
History Of ◽  
History Of Use ◽  
Shed Light

Abstract This article presents the project “Virtual Benedictine library Millstatt” (www.virtbibmillstatt.com/), which is dedicated to the cultural memory and educational history of Carinthia in the broadest sense. It aims to reconstruct the hitherto little-known and little-researched corpus of manuscripts from the Benedictine Abbey of Millstatt, to identify its texts, and to shed light on their history of use. Against the background of the eventful history of ownership of the Millstatt library, the problems that arise when trying to reliably assign manuscripts scattered around the world to the Millstatt corpus are outlined. Examples will be used to show the extent to which external features (binding, signature system, accessories), but also text-internal indications, make the origin and ownership history of the manuscripts traceable. Spectacular new finds are presented, but also erroneous assumptions about the affiliation of certain texts to the reading canon of the Millstatt Benedictines are pointed out.

scholarly journals Alien Species vs. Native Species: From Community Ecology to Eco-Evolutionary Dynamics

2019 ◽  
Author(s):  
Andersonn Silveira Prestes
Keyword(s):  
Alien Species ◽  
Exotic Species ◽  
Native Species ◽  
Evolutionary Dynamics ◽  
Evolutionary Processes ◽  
Native Communities ◽  
Individualized Approach ◽  
History Of ◽  
Relationship Of ◽  
The Relationship

The establishment and spread of exotic species is a contemporary major concern. Alien species may become invasive in their new habitat, leading to both/either environmental and/or economic impacts. I briefly reviewed the literature in the last decade about the relationship of exotic species and native communities. I identified that professionals usually approach the subject in two main points of view: (1) researchers tend to point out the impacts of alien species on entire communities, evaluating if the relationship is positive, negative or neutral; (2) they focus on the eco-evolutionary processes involved in the introductions, the dynamics of invasion, and individual study cases. When evaluating the response of introductions to entire communities, evidence seems to be ambiguous and may support positive, negative or neutral relationship, especially depending on the scale approached. The unique eco-evolutionary pathways of each introduction may be a great shortcoming in the searching for generalities. On the other hand, advances have been made in understanding the dynamics of invasion on different lineages through a more selective/individualized approach. I suggest that the dynamics of invasion might be studied through a perspective in which different eco-evolutionary processes, levels of organization (from gene to entire communities), the history of the organism(s) and time are taken into account. Individual cases might be compared in attempt to understand how the relationship exotic and native works and in the search for generalities.

scholarly journals Mortar mixes with oxblood: historical background, model sample recipes and properties

2018 ◽  
Vol 45 ◽  
pp. 19-24 ◽  
Author(s):  
Kun Zhang ◽  
Laura Rampazzi ◽  
Maria Pia Riccardi ◽  
Antonio Sansonetti ◽  
Alberto Grimoldi
Keyword(s):  
Building Materials ◽  
Historical Background ◽  
Organic Additives ◽  
X Ray Diffraction ◽  
Amorphous Calcium Carbonate ◽  
Historical Building ◽  
Model Sample ◽  
History Of ◽  
History Of Architecture ◽  
History Of Use

Abstract. In this survey we present studies on mortar mixes added with oxblood, which was a commonly found local waste material, with a wide application and long history of use; a precise recipe of lime–pozzolan mortar with blood addition from a 19th-century Italian manual was chosen, and model samples were prepared accordingly, with the aim of better understanding the chemical, mineralogical and physical characteristics of such compositions, starting with a blank reference specimen. The specimens were analysed by means of scanning electron microscopy, infrared spectroscopy, thermal analysis and X-ray diffraction, and the results suggested that amorphous calcium carbonate could be formed in the specimens with oxblood addition. These preliminary results allow a better understanding of historical building practices, measuring effects induced by organic additives on mortar microstructure, as well as an evaluation of new performances obtained in mortar mixes. Moreover, this paper intends to propose a full multi-discipline approach to bridge the history of architecture and building materials to conservation science.

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