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From the Director’s Desk

India  is  one  of  the  richest  and most  diversified  countries  as  far  as  biodiversity,  natural products and resources are concerned. Dissemination of information on various topics related to these subjects has acquired unprecedented prominence in the last two decades as every field, be it  science,  technology  or  engineering,  look  to  natural  resources  as  a  safe  source,  both environmentally as well as technologically. 

The National  Institute of Science Communication And Information Resources (NISCAIR), is a constituent establishment of Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), New Delhi which houses globally renowned publications such as, The Wealth of India–An Encyclopaedia of Indian Raw Materials, 17  scholarly  research  journals and 2 abstracting  journals,  viz. Medicinal and Aromatic Plants Abstracts (MAPA) and Indian Science Abstracts (ISA). Since, MAPA and ISA have vast coverage on Medicinal and Aromatic Plants and all  science subjects,  respectively, we have  now  decided  to  extend  our  services  on  all  plant  and  animals  based  natural  products  in faster  mode  i.e.  electronically.  With  immense  pleasure  we  announce  launching  of  Natural Products  and  Resources  Repository  (NPARR)  with  open  access  to  adequately  fulfill  the information  needs  of  teachers,  scientists,  scholars  and  entrepreneurs  for  research  and commercial products development from natural resources. Another feature of this repository is that authors can be users and contributors  to  this  repository at  the same  time by sending soft copies  of  abstracts  of  their  published  papers  with  full  citation  and  address  of  corresponding authors and  information on technologies/know‐how developed at  their  institute/university  for placing under respective group of products/technologies. I trust that this collection will also help researchers in searching core and non‐core journals on specified products.  

I welcome all  experienced  authors,  editors  and publishers  of  national  and  international journals  for  their creative cooperation and enthusiastic  involvement  in  this new endeavor. The NPARR allows  free  access  to  its  contents  and hence will  enhance  citation/visibility  of  papers/ technological  know‐how  included  in  this  repository.  We  look  forward  to  provide  you  a comprehensive collection of quality information on natural products in coming years.  

 

Gangan Prathap 

 

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NATURAL PRODUCTS AND RESOURCES REPOSITORY (NPARR) 

(A Quarterly Electronic Repository of Current Information on Natural Products and Resources)

This  repository  is  produced  by  systematic  survey  of  research  and  review  papers published  in  primary  journals  and providing  abstracts/summaries  and bibliographic  details  of applied research.  It  is covering  information on all aspects of natural products and resources of plants and animals. The abstracts are presented in various categories viz. Beverages, Cosmetics, Dyes,  Essential  oils,  Fats/Oils,  Feed/Fodder,  Fibre,  Flavour/Fragrance,  Food,  Fruits,  Fuel, Gum/Rubber,  Insecticides  /Fungicides/Nematicides,  Oils/Fats,  Poultry,  Pulp/Paper,  Spices/ Condiments,  Therapeutics,  Vegetables,  Wood,  etc.  Title,  journal,  author(s),  address  of corresponding  author  (Asterisk  marked)  of  the  original  paper  are  provided  for  scientific reference  and  citation.  NPARR  inserts  new  products  and  technologies  developed  forthcoming conferences or educational event, book reviews, projects completed and theses awarded.  

Compilation/Editor: Dr (Mrs) Sunita Garg

Director Dr Gangan Prathap (ex-officio)

National Institute of Science Communication and Information Resources (NISCAIR), CSIR Dr K. S. Krishnan Marg, New Delhi-110012, INDIA Phone: 91-011-25846301 ext 258, 25846001; Fax: 91-011 2584 7062 Website; http://nopr.niscair.res.in E-mail: sunitag@niscair.res.in; sunita.niscair@gmail.com; nparr@niscair.res.in; sanjayburde@niscair.res.in

The information on this site is intended for educational purposes and societal benefit and is available free of cost. It is a compilation from research journals and it is not a substitute for the advice of a qualified professional. The Council of Scientific and Industrial Research, India does not endorse nor does it verify the content or claims made. Editor does not accept responsibility for the consequences of the use of the information. Every effort is made to present the information accurately; however, we assume no liability for any errors and omissions.

Information for Readers We encourage readers to sign up for the publishing notification service for this repository. Use

the Register link and register yourself. It will result in the readers receiving the E-mail alert for each new issue. This list also allows the NPARR to claim a certain level of support or readership. The

 

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Privacy Statement assures readers that their name and E-mail address will not be used for other purposes.

For including in respective categories, we would like to ask you to contribute soft copies of: (i) Abstract of your excellent papers published during the last one year or current year in any journal; (ii) New technologies/ Know-how Developed at your Institute or University; (iii) Books for review or book reviews for publication; (iv) Forthcoming events and Theses awarded in recent past. We certainly hope that more ground will be covered in future issues. The librarians are requested to list NPARR among their library's electronic journal holdings. You may send your above contributions to Dr (Mrs) Sunita Garg, on E-mail Id: sunitag@niscair.res.in; nparr@niscair.res.in

 

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NATURAL PRODUCTS AND RESOURCES  REPOSITORY (NPARR) 

(A Quarterly Electronic Repository of Current Information on Natural Products and Resources)

C O N T E N T S Volume 3, No. 4   October 2012

Products     Beverages     197 

Cosmetics/Cosmeceuticals   199 

Dyes   200 

Essential oils   203 

Feed/Fodder   206 

Food   209 

Fruits   212 

Fuel   215 

Insecticides   218 

Mannure/Fertilizer   222 

Oils/Fats   223 

Phytochemicals   225 

Pulp/Paper   227 

Spices/Condiments      228 

Therapeutics    229 

Vegetables    241 

Wood    242 

Others     Cultivation    244 

New Technologies     247 

Postharvest Technology    249 

Forthcoming events     250 

Announcements    251  

 

NATURAL PRODUCTS AND RESOURCES REPOSITORY (NPARR)

BEVERAGES (incl. Juices, Tea /Coffee, Yoghurt and other natural soft drinks)

NPARR 3(4), 2012-0346 Screening of the antioxidant properties and polyphenol composition of aromatised green tea infusions

Aromatised green teas are widely sold and popular owing to their fragrance. In this study the antioxidant activity of six commercial green tea infusions was assessed by three complementary assays. In order to evaluate the tea infusions as antioxidant sources, their phenolic content (Folin-Ciocalteu assay), cupric ion-reducing antioxidant capacity (CUPRAC) and 2, 2-diphenyl-1-picryhydrazyl (DPPH) radical-scavenging ability were determined. Their content of polyphenols was also determined by high-performance liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry (HPLC/MS) in negative electrospray ionisation mode. Some teas with citrus aroma, besides having a relatively high content of catechins, also contain other phenolic compounds such as naringin and hesperidin. The three assays used to evaluate the antioxidant capacity of the tea infusions gave different rank orders. Therefore an antioxidant index was calculated for better correlation of the results, and its highest value was obtained for Clear Green Mint tea infusion. The studied teas, besides having a relatively high content of catechins, also contain naringin and hesperidin, which are not present in ‘pure’ green tea. It is important to run multiple assays to get a better estimate of the antioxidant capacity of a given sample [Anna Pekal, Paulina Dróżdż, Magdalena Biesaga and Krystyna Pyrzynska* (Department of Chemistry, University of Warsaw, Pasteura 1, PL-02-093 Warsaw, Poland), Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture, 2012, 92(11), 2244-2249].

NPARR 3(4), 2012-0347 Effect of extraction method on quality of orange juice: hand-squeezed, commercial-fresh squeezed and processed

Fresh orange juice is perceived to be more wholesome than processed juice. Fresh juice may have flavor and nutrients that differ from pasteurized or processed juice ‘Hamlin’ and ‘Valencia’ oranges were extracted using a commercial food service juicer, pasteurized or not, resulting in fresh-commercial juice (FCJ) or pasteurized juice (FCPJ) for comparison with pasteurized processed juice (PPJ) in 2009, and gently hand-squeezed ‘Valencia’ juice (HSJ) in 2010 for quality attributes. There was higher peel oil, lower pectin content, and less cloud loss in FCJ/FCPJ compared to PPJ and HSJ regardless of pasteurization. Titratable acidity was generally higher and the ratio of solids to acids lower in FCJ/FCPJ or HSJ compared to PPJ. FCJ/FCPJ had generally higher levels of most aroma volatiles than did PPJ and, overall, the highest esters and terpenes, while methanol and ethanol levels were highest in HSJ. For sensory evaluation, FCJ/FCPJ had more peel oil and PPJ more cooked flavor than other samples, while ‘Valencia’ HSJ was preferred over the other juices. High peel oil content and thermo-pasteurization process decreased cloud loss of orange juice. Extraction and finishing processes rather than pasteurization or oil content were major factors in influencing orange juice flavor quality [Elizabeth A Baldwin*, Jinhe Bai, Anne Plotto, Randall Cameron, Gary Luzio, Jan Narciso, John Manthey, Wilbur Widmer and Bryan L Ford (USDA-ARS Horticultural Research Laboratory, 2001 South Rock Road, Fort Pierce, FL 34954, USA), Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture, 2012, 92(10), 2029-2042].

NPARR 3(4), 2012-0348 Antimicrobial activity of food-compatible plant extracts and chitosan against naturally occurring micro-organisms in tomato juice

Chitosan (AC) and five hydroalcoholic extracts from Lithospermum erythrorhizon (SE),

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Rheum palmatum (RE), Thymus vulgaris (AT), Lippia citriodora (PLX) and a mixture of Rosmarinus officinalis, Salvia lavandulifolia and Thymus mastichina (LA) were tested for antimicrobial activity against bacteria, yeasts and filamentous fungi using two broth dilution methods. The effects of adding single extracts on naturally occurring micro-organisms and sensory qualities of raw tomato juice were also evaluated. SE extract exhibited the strongest activity, with minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of 100–400 µg mL−1 for Gram-positive and 1600–3200 µg mL−1 for Gram-negative bacteria. Enterobacter aerogenes showed the greatest susceptibility to AC (MIC 1600 µg mL−1). Lethal effects of extracts and AC were achieved at a minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC)/MIC ratio of 2 in 88% of assays. SE and RE extracts and AC also exhibited antifungal effect against yeasts, but they had no activity on filamentous fungi. Control and 100 mg L−1 SE-added tomato juices did not differ in acceptance, but this SE concentration was not effective in the control of microbial load throughout cold storage. Results confirm the antimicrobial potential of the plant extracts, but additional research is needed until the agents responsible for the activities have been determined in order to use them as natural constituents of multiple-barrier food preservation systems [Manuel J Giner, Salud Vegara, Lorena Funes, Nuria Martí, Domingo Saura, Vicente Micol, and Manuel Valero*(Departamento de Producción Vegetal y Microbiología, Escuela Politécnica Superior de Orihuela (EPSO), Universidad Miguel Hernández (UMH), Campus de Orihuela, Carretera de Beniel km 3.2, E-03312 Orihuela, Alicante, Spain), Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture, 2012, 92( 9), 1917-1923].

NPARR 3(4), 2012-0349 Substituting homemade fruit juice for sugar-sweetened beverages is associated with lower odds of metabolic syndrome among hispanic adults

Consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages (SSB) has been associated with metabolic syndrome (MetS); however, studies conducted on Hispanic adults are scarce. To determine the association between beverages consumed by Hispanic adults and MetS and its components, data were analyzed in 1872 Costa Rican adults who served as controls of a population-based, case-control study of coronary heart disease. Multivariate-adjusted means were calculated for components of MetS by servings (never, ≤1/wk; 2–6/wk, ≥1/d) of 2 traditional fruit-based beverages (“fresco” and freshly-squeezed homemade fruit juice, separately) and 2 SSB (instant drinks and regular sodas, separately and combined). The prevalence ratio (PR) of MetS was calculated for each beverage and the OR was calculated by substituting one serving of homemade fruit juice or water for one of SSB. Significant positive trends were observed for increasing servings of instant drinks with plasma TG and waist circumference and for regular soda with waist circumference (all P-trend < 0.001). Increasing servings of homemade fruit juice were positively associated with HDL cholesterol (P-trend = 0.033). Consuming ≥1 serving/d of instant drinks was associated with a higher PR of MetS [1.42 (95% CI: 1.11, 1.83)] compared with no consumption. Substituting one serving of homemade fruit juice for instant drink was associated with 29% (95% CI: 7, 47%) lower odds of MetS and for regular soda with 30% (95% CI: 1, 50%) lower odds. Substituting water for combined SSB was marginally significant (OR = 0.86 (95% CI: 0.74, 1.00). In conclusion, reducing the consumption of SSB and substituting them with homemade fruit juices in moderation may be a culturally appropriate approach to lower MetS among Hispanic adults [Josiemer Mattei, Vasanti Malik, Frank B. Hu, and Hannia Campos* (Department of Nutrition, Harvard School of Public Health, Boston, MA), The Journal of Nutrition, 2012, 142(6), 1081-1087].

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COSMETICS/COSMECEUTICALS NPARR 3(4), 2012-0350 Development and evaluation of polyherbal hair oil formulation for hair growth potential

Alopecia is a dermatological disorder with psychosocial implications on patients with hair loss. Hibiscus rosa sinensis Linn. (Malvaceae), Lawsonia inermis Linn (Lythraceae) and Trigonella foenum-graecun Linn. (Fabaceae) are well known Ayurvedic herb with purported claims of hair growth promotion. Hair formulation of Hibiscus rosa sinensis Linn (Malvaceae) 10% w/v, Lawsonia inermis Linn (Lythraceae) 5% w/v and Trigonella foenum- graecun Linn (Fabaceae) 10% w/v concentration in the form of herbal oil were studied and showed excellent hair growth activity with standard (2 % minoxidil ethanolic solution) in wister albino rats. Hair growth initiation time was significantly reduced to half on treatment with the oil, as compared to control animals. The time required for complete hair growth was also significantly reduced. The result of treatment with oil was better than the positive control minoxidil 2 % treatment. It holds the promise of potent herbal alternative for minoxidil [M Sai Chandra*, T Tamizh Mani, K Sarvani1, Neha Singh, T Jyothirmayi and N Manju Bargavi, Inventi Rapid: Cosmeceuticals , Vol. 2012 , Article ID- " Inventi: pcc/68/12", 2012 [cited 2013 Jan 05, Available From http://www.inventi.in/Article/pcc/68/12.aspx]. NPARR 3(4), 2012-0351 Development  and evaluation of polyherbal anti­acne gel

Topical formulations (Gel) have been developed containing chloroform extracts of Azadirachta indica, chloroform extract of

Ocimum sanctum and methanol extracts of Curcuma longa and Aloe vera concentrate gel and almond oil. In vitro antibacterial activity was performed against Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes), a causative organism for Acne vulgaris for the developed formulations using cup plate method. The measured zones of inhibitions of the formulations were compared with standard antibiotic (tetracycline), standard marketed topical herbal preparation for acne. Results of the investigation showed that formulation 1 has greater antibacterial activity (zones of inhibition >19.8 mm) than other formulations and which is comparable to that of standard marketed topical herbal preparation. When compared with chloroform extract of Ocimum sanctum (Zone of inhibition <17 mm), chloroform extract of Azadiracta indica (Zone of inhibition < 32mm) and methanol Extracts of Curcuma longa (Zone of inhibition 22 mm) all formulations had shown better activity while the activity was found less on comparison with the standard antibiotic solution (zone of inhibition >34 mm). In vivo activity has done for the formulation 1. As physical observations were carried out on regular intervals at the rabbit ear and progressive fading of come do was found on drug treated animals. No change was observed in control group, where as in test groups shown significant improvement on come do reduction of rabbit pinnas was observed photographically. Test group showed a significant improvement compared to standard come do [K Sarvani*, T Tamizh Mani, S Rama Krishna, M Sai Chandra, Neha Singh, T Jyothirmayi and N Manju Bargavi, Inventi Impact: Cosmeceuticals, Vol. 2012, Article ID- "Inventi:pcc/67/12", 2012 [cited 2013 Jan 05], Available From http://www.inventi.in/Article/ pcc/67/12.aspx Inventi Impact: Cosmeceuticals publication date: 2012/7/15].

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DYES (incl. Food colorants) NPARR 3(4), 2012-0352 Isolation, identification and dyeing studies of betanin on modified acrylic fabrics

Mature red fruits of Opuntia ficus-indica contain two soluble pigment, betanin and indicaxanthin. The optimal conditions for dye extraction were to mix 50 g of juice from cactus pears with 100 mL of acidified water as solvent for dye extraction. Two main dyes were purified from the pigment extract by chromatography and identified by UV–vis, HPLC and LC–MS techniques as indicaxanthin (15mg per 100g) and betanin (280mg per 100g). The effect of dye bath pH, salt concentration, dyeing time and temperature was studied. The optimal conditions for dyeing modified acrylic fabrics with betanin dye were carried out at 50°C for 45 min at pH 5. Un-mordanted samples have good properties of water and washing fastness. Mordant CoSO4 was found to give good light fastness (rating 5) [A. Guesmi*, N. Ladhari, N. Ben Hamadi and F. Sakli (Textile Research Unit, Higher Institute of Technological Studies of Ksar Hellal, Tunisia), Industrial Crops and Products, 2012, 37(1), 342-346]

NPARR 3(4), 2012-0353 Response surface optimization and artificial neural network modeling of microwave assisted natural dye extraction from pomegranate rind

The extracted dye from brown dry rind of the pomegranate has been used as natural colorant for textiles from ancient times. In this study, microwave assisted extraction (MAE) has been used for extraction for dye from dried pomegranate rind. The effect of three independent parameters namely extraction time (25-90 s), pH of solution (3.5-8) and amount of pomegranate rind (0.5-1.5g) was considered. Response surface methodology (RSM) is applied to optimize the effects of processing parameters of extraction on the yield of dye and a computer-

stimulated artificial neural network (ANN) model is developed to get a good correlation between the input variables responsible for extraction and the output parameter (concentration of dye) of extraction from pomegranate rind. Considering the yield of dye extraction and the feasibility of the experiment, the optimum conditions of dye extraction are extraction time 90s, pH 3.5, amount of sample 1.48. Application of microwave irradiation method proved to be a rapid and improved technique for dye extraction and significantly reduced the extraction time. The optimization procedure shows a close interaction between the experimental and simulated values for dye extraction [Keka Sinha, Papita Das Saha* and Siddhartha Datta (Department of Biotechnology, National Institute of Technology Durgapur, Durgapur, West Bengal, India), Industrial Crops and Products, 2012, 37(1), 408-414].

NPARR 3(4), 2012-0354 Anthraquinones dye production using root cultures of Oldenlandia umbellata Linn.

The presence of anthraquinones gives many plants of the Rubiaceae commercial importance. The root of Oldenlandia umbellata Linn. (Indian madder) is a source of natural dyes. In the present study, successful protocols have been developed for rapid root development and dye production from in vitro raised normal roots. For rapid root development, organogenic calli were subcultured onto MS medium supplemented with various concentrations of NAA (1-naphthaleneacetic acid) (0.15–1.0 mg/l) with CM (coconut milk) (0.2–0.6%). The best root development (47.3 per calli) as well as response (100%) was obtained in the MS medium supplemented with 0.7 mg/l NAA and 0.4%CM. The dye obtained from in vitro raised normal roots was analyzed by thin-layer chromatography (TLC), high performance thin-layer chromatography (HPTLC), spectrophotometric quantification followed by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). The in vitro

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roots represented 338.84μg/ml AE (alizarin equivalence) of anthraquinones, whereas the in vivo roots were found to possess 361μg/ml AE. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report on anthraquinone dye production from O. umbellata which enhances the production of fresh pigment and through in vitro culture allows harvest throughout the year [Ramamoorthy Siva*, Sean Mayes, Shuvra Kanta Behera and C. Rajasekaran (School of Bio Sciences and Technology, VIT University, Vellore, Tamil Nadu- 632 014, India), Industrial Crops and Products, 2012, 37(1), 415-419].

NPARR 3(4), 2012-0355 Dyeing properties and colour fastness of wool dyed with indicaxanthin natural dye

This research work involves the dyeing of wool with indicaxanthin, a natural dye extracted from fruits of Opuntia ficus-indica. The optimal conditions for dye extraction were to mix 50g of Juice from cactus pears with 100mL of 80% aqueous ethanol as solvent for dye extraction. Liquid chromatography was applied for the separation. Two main dyes were obtained, which were identified as indicaxanthin (75mg per 50g) and betanin (5mg per 50g). The effect of dye bath pH, salt concentration, dyeing time and temperature were studied. The optimal conditions for wool dyeing with indicaxanthin dye were carried out at 70°C for 90min with the pre-treatment of various metal salts as mordant. The colour yields of the dye on the wool were found to be highly dependent of the pH, optimum results being obtained at pH 4. The K/S of wool increased in the order of the dyeing using KAl (SO4)2>MnSO4>CoSO4>FeSO4>none>ZnSO4>CuSO4. Un-mordanted samples have good properties of water and washing fastness. Mordants KAl (SO4)2 and CoSO4 were found to give good light fastness (rating 5) [A. Guesmi*, N. Ben Hamadi, N. Ladhari and F. Sakli (Textile Research Unit, Higher Institute of Technological Studies of Ksar Hellal, Tunisia), Industrial Crops and Products, 2012, 37(1), 493-499].

NPARR 3(4), 2012-0356 Au–Ag nanoparticles as red pigment in ceramic inks for digital decoration

Novel pigments, consisting of Au–Ag mixed nanoparticles, were developed for digital decoration by ink-jet printing of ceramic wares. Special attention was paid to set up a microwave assisted synthesis route, with a low environmental impact, easily transferable to large-scale production. Several suspensions, based on Au, Ag and Au–Ag mixed nanoparticles were prepared, trying to get a core-shell assemblage, and the synthesis parameters like metal concentration, Ag/Au ratio, time, temperature and chelating agent amount were optimized. The suspensions are stable over many months and a total reaction yield, assessed by ICP-AES analysis, was achieved. Particle size, shape, composition and optical properties were measured by DLS, TEM-EDS, XRD and UV–VIS spectroscopy. The so-prepared inks were applied on ceramic tiles simulating the ceramic process and the colour performance, assessed by colourimetry, were expressed in the CIELab parameters [M. Blosi*, S. Albonetti, F. Gatti, G. Baldi and M. Dondi (Institute of Science and Technology for Ceramics (ISTEC-CNR), Via Granarolo 64, 48018 Faenza, Italy), Dyes and Pigments, 2012, 94(2), 355-362].

NPARR 3(4), 2012-0357 Extraction of natural dye from petals of Flame of Forest (Butea monosperma) flower: Process optimization using response surface methodology (RSM)

The uncontrolled discharge of synthetic dyes into the aquatic ecosystem is a global environmental concern due to their negative ecotoxicological effects. Dyes obtained from different natural sources have emerged as an important alternative to synthetic dyes. In this study, natural colorant from the petals of the Flame of forest (Butea monosperma) flower was extracted under different operating conditions such as extraction time (45-120 min), temperature (60-90°C) and mass of the petals

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(0.5-2 g) by conventional extraction technique. Response surface methodology (RSM) with the help of Design Expert Version 7.1.6 (STAT-EASE Inc., USA) was used for optimization of the extraction process and evaluation of interaction effects of different operating parameters. The optimum conditions for dye extraction were found to be 153.65 min, 73.53°C and 1.47g for extraction time, temperature, and mass of the flower, respectively. The efficiency

of extraction under these optimum conditions was found to be 8813.67mgL−1. Further, Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy was used to identify the major chemical groups in the extracted dye [Keka Sinha, Papita Das Saha* and Siddhartha Datta (Department of Biotechnology, National Institute of Technology Durgapur, Mahatma Gandhi Avenue, Durgapur (West Bengal) 713209, India), Dyes and Pigments, 2012, 94(2), 212-216].

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ESSENTIAL OILS (incl. Flavour and Fragrance) NPARR 3(4), 2012-0358 The effects of onion and salt treatments on essential oil content and composition of Rosa damascena Mill.

Due to the low oil content of Rosa damascena Mill., on one hand, and the wide spectrum of its application, on the other hand, it is desirable to find ways to increase the oil yield and also its quality. Therefore, in the present study the effects of chopped onion (1.0, 1.5, 2.0 and 4.0g per 220g of rose flower) and sodium chloride (11.0, 15.5, 22.0 and 30.0g per 220g of rose flower) which were added to rose flowers before distillation, were investigated on the quality and quantity of the oil. The quantity was measured as the ratio of oil to rose flower (w/w, %) and the quality was evaluated using the oil composition especially the content of monoterpene alcohols and hydrocarbons. Compared with corresponding control sample, treating with 1.5 g of chopped onion increased the oil content by 41% but it resulted in a lower quality; whereas in the presence of 1.0 g of onion, an increase of 30% and a decrease of 18% were observed in the percentage of monoterpene alcohols and hydrocarbons, respectively without any considerable change in the oil content. However, the effect of sodium chloride was somehow different from that of onion; such that in the optimal amount (22.0 g), the salt had no considerable effect on the quality but an increase of 21% in the oil yield [Tayebeh Shamspur, Maryam Mohamadi and Ali Mostafavi* (Department of Chemistry, Shahid Bahonar University of Kerman, Kerman 76169, Iran), Industrial Crops and Products, 2012, 37(1), 451-456]. NPARR 3(4), 2012-0359 In vitro inhibitory effect of clove essential oil and its two active principles on tooth decalcification by apple juice

The dental erosion or decalcification of enamel is a significant clinical problem. Apple acidic beverages are thought to increase the potential for dental erosion. The purpose of this in vitro study was to investigate the effect of clove essential oil (CEO) and its active principles on tooth decalcification of apple juices. On GC-MS analysis, CEO showed a high content of eugenol (58.29%) and eugenyl acetate (19.10%). Teeth specimens were randomly divided into 5 treatment groups: control, CEO, eugenol, eugenyl-acetate, and fluoride. The specimens were exposed for 24 h and were analyzed for calcium contents using Inductively Coupled Plasma with Optical Emission Spectroscopy (ICP-OES). Data were analyzed using student t-test (< 0.05). CEO, eugenol, and eugenyl-acetate significantly decreased the decalcification of tooth by the apple juice to only 17, 24, and 21�mgL−1, respectively. Hemolytic activity on human erythrocytes was studied to exclude the possibility of further associated cytotoxicity. It was observed that the CEO and its two lead molecules inhibit the decalcification and/or promote the remineralization caused by the apple juices. The effect of the test compounds appears to be distinct like that of fluoride treatment. CEO may, therefore, serve to be a promising adjunct to fluoride in the treatment of root caries during minimally invasive therapy [Charu M. Marya, Gunjan Satija, Avinash J., Ruchi Nagpal, Rohtash Kapoor, and Aijaz Ahmad* (Department of Public Health Dentistry, Sudha Rustagi College of Dental Sciences and Research, Faridabad, Haryana, India), International Journal of Dentistry, Volume 2012 (2012), Article ID 759618, 6 pages doi:10.1155/2012/759618].

NPARR 3(4), 2012-0360 Combustion characteristics of diesel fuel on one cylinder diesel engine using clove oil, eugenol, and eugenyl acetate as fuel bio-additives

The aim of this study was to analyze the fuel blend combustion characteristics on an engine. First, physical properties were obtained

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by measuring specific gravity, API gravity, aniline point, viscosity, density, flash point, cetane number and heating value. Subsequently, combustion analysis was carried out under laboratory condition using hydra one cylinder direct injection diesel engine, while the combustion characteristics tested in this study included cylinder gas pressure, total heat release and ignition delay. The performed research showed that terpene compounds content of clove oil acted as mediator agent between the bio-additive and base fuel resulting a perfect solution. Ultimately, it enhanced the process of mixing between clove oil fuel blend and air, promoted rapid combustion and lowered ignition delay. The highest total heat release was inferred to be oxygen content of the bio-additive, leading a decrease of smoke, CO and HC emissions. However, the improvement of combustion performance did not linear with the increase of the oxygen supply as shown by eugenyl acetate. NOx emission, as an environmental consequence of an efficient process in combustion chamber, was strongly affected by the greater quantity of oxygen [Asep Kadarohman, Hernani, Ijang Rohman, Ririn Kusrini, and Rizki Maryam Astuti*(Indonesia University of Education, Faculty of Science Education, Dept. of Chemistry Education, Jl. Dr. Setiabudhi No 229, Bandung 40154, Indonesia), Fuel, 2012, 98, 73-79].

NPARR 3(4), 2012-0361 Larvicidal and knockdown effects of some essential oils against Culex quinquefasciatus Say, Aedes aegypti (L.) and Anopheles stephensi (Liston)

Efficacy of 25 essential oils was screened against filarial vector, Culex quinquefasciatus, for their larvicidal and knockdown effects in a preliminary study. Of these, 8 oils, viz. calamus oil, cinnamon oil, citronella oil, clove oil, eucalyptus oil, lemon oil, mentha oil and orange oil exhibited 100% larvicidal activity at 1000 ppm and 100% knock down effect at 10% concentration. These 8 oils were screened further

against Cx. quinquefasciatus, Aedes aegypti and Anopheles stephensi for their larvicial and knockdown effects at different concentrations. Mentha oil was the most promising against An. stephensi and Ae. aegypti recording LC50 and LC90 values of 39.74 and 115.67 ppm and 46.23 and 165.36 ppm, respectively for larvicidal activity. Calamus oil was the most effective against Cx. quinquefasciatus with LC50 and LC90 values of 40.40, and 140.07 ppm, respectively for larvicidal activity. Orange oil showed the most potent knockdown effect with the KT50 and KT95 values of 27.44, 26.22 and 29.91 and 70.81, 65.33 and 68.57 min, against An. stephensi, Cx. quinquefasciatus and Ae. aegypti, respectively. The results clearly indicated that mentha oil and calamus oil were the most prom ising larvicides and orange oil had potent knock down effect against the tested mosquito species. These oils could be used to develop a new formulation to control mosquitoes [A. Manimaran, M. Mary Jee Jee Cruz, C. Muthu, S. Vincent and S. Ignacimuthu* (Entomology Research Institute, Loyola College, Chennai, India), Advances in Bioscience and Biotechnology, 2012, 3, 855-862 ABB doi:10.4236/ abb.2012.37106 Published Online November 2012 (http://www.SciRP.org/journal/abb/].

NPARR 3(4), 2012-0362 Comparative antimicrobial activity of clove and fennel essential oils against food borne pathogenic fungi and food spoilage bacteria

Antifungal and antibacterial activities of essential oils obtained from fennel seeds (Feoniculum vulgare Mill) and clove buds (Syzygium aromaticum) were studied by agar well dilution technique. Both essential oils (EOs) from fennel and clove exhibited pronounced and varying degrees of growth inhibition against fungal (86 to 39%) and bacterial pathogens (42 to 20%). Fennel oil depicted significant and greater fungitoxicity in case of three fungal strains Alternaria alternata (7.7, 3.8 cm) Fusarium

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oxysporum (5.9, 4.1 cm) and Aspergillus flavus (4.5, 3.7 cm) except two Aspergillus strains, Aspergillus acculeatus and Apergillus fumigatus where clove oil showed greater inhibition zone (5.5, 5.9 cm) (3.5, 3.7 cm), respectively. A. alternata was found to be most sensitive strain, which growth was suppressed up to 86% by fennel seeds oil. Bactericidal activity of culinary spices was evaluated against five food spoilage bacteria namely: Pseudomonas syringae, Bacillus subtilis, Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus sp., and Aeromicrobium erythreum. Fennel oil was found fairly active against bacterial strains as compared to clove oil with highest antibacterial activity

against Gram positive bacteria Bacillus subtilis (3.8 cm) and least against Gram negative bacteria E. coli (2.2 cm). The summarizing results from the present investigation showed that fennel seeds oil is a relatively stronger antimicrobial agent against broad range of pathogens as compared to clove oil, except in case of certain Aspergillus strains and E. coli [Shabnam Javed*, Sobia Mushtaq, Ibatsam Khokhar, Rauf Ahmad and M. Saleem Haider (Institute of Agriculture, University of the Punjab, Quaid-e- Azam Campus, Lahore-54590, Pakistan), African Journal of Biotechnology, 2012, 11(94), 16065-16070].

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FEED/FODDER NPARR 3(4), 2012-0363 Drying and processing protocols affect the quantification of cyanogenic glucosides in forage sorghum

Cyanogenic glucosides are common bioactive products that break down to release toxic hydrogen cyanide (HCN) when combined with specific β-glucosidases. In forage sorghum, high concentrations of the cyanogenic glucoside dhurrin lead to reduced productivity and sometimes death of grazing animals, especially in times of drought, when the dhurrin content of stunted crops is often higher. The aim of this study was to develop harvesting protocols suitable for sampling in remote areas.

Dhurrin concentration in air- and oven-dried leaves was the same as in fresh leaves, with no subsequent losses during storage. Dhurrin concentration was halved when leaves were freeze-dried, although activity of the endogenous dhurrinase was preserved. Direct measurement of dhurrin concentration in methanolic extracts using liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry (LC/MS) gave similar results to methods that captured evolved cyanide. A single freezing event was as effective as fine grinding in facilitating complete conversion of dhurrin to cyanide. Direct measurement of dhurrin using LC/MS is accurate but expensive and not appropriate for fieldwork. Air drying provides an accurate, low-cost method for preparing tissue for dhurrin analysis, so long as the specific β-glucosidase is added. It is recommended that comparative studies like the one presented here be extended to other cyanogenic species [Roslyn M Gleadow*, Morten E Møldrup, Natalie H O'Donnell and Peter N Stuart (School of Biological Science, Monash University, Melbourne 3800, Australia), Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture), 2012, 92(11), 2234-2238].

NPARR 3(4), 2012-0364 Effect of Mulberry leaf pellet (MUP) supplementation on rumen

fermentation and nutrient digestibility in beef cattle fed on rice straw-based diets

This study was designed to determine the effect of mulberry leaf pellets (MUP) on feed intake, digestibility and rumen fermentation in beef cattle. Four ruminal fistulated crossbred (Brahman×Thai native) beef cattle (420±15kg) were randomly assigned according to a 4×4 Latin square design. The dietary treatments were as follows; T1=0g MUP/day; T2=200g MUP/day; T3=400g MUP/day; and T4=600g MUP/day. All animals were kept in individual pen and concentrate was offered at 5g/kg of body weight (BW) daily. The experiment was conducted for four periods, and each period lasted for 21 days. During the first 14 days, all animals were fed with respective diets and rice straw was fed ad libitum. During the last 7 days, the animals were moved to metabolism crates for total urine and fecal collection. The results of this finding revealed that rice straw and total dry matter intakes were increased (P<0.05) when MUP was supplemented and the highest was with supplementation at 600g MUP/day. Apparent digestibilities of dry matter (DM), organic matter (OM), crude protein (CP), neutral detergent fiber (aNDF) and acid detergent fiber (ADF) were improved when increased level of MUP supplementation, especially at 600g MUP/day (P<0.05). Moreover, supplementation of MUP has shown higher nitrogen balance than in control. Ruminal pH and temperature were not affected by MUP supplementation (P>0.05). In contrast, there was an increase of ammonia nitrogen (NH3-N) concentration as well as blood urea nitrogen (BUN) in the supplemented group. Moreover, total volatile fatty acid (TVFA), acetate (C2), butyrate (C4) concentration and acetate to propionate (C2:C3) ratio were linearly increased when increasing level of MUP supplementation (P<0.05) while no change in propionate (C3) concentration was found. Based on this result, it could be concluded that MUP can be used as a good protein source to improve rumen fermentation, nutrient digestibility and

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ruminants’ productivity. It is recommended to supplement MUP at 600g/day for cattle fed on low-quality roughages such as rice straw [N.T. Huyen, M. Wanapat*and C. Navanukraw (Tropical Feed Resources Research and Development Center (TROFREC), Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen 40002, Thailand), Animal Feed Science and Technology, 2012, 175(1-2), 8-15].

NPARR 3(4), 2012-0365 Effects of adding a concentrated pomegranate extract to the ration of lactating cows on performance and udder health parameters

Two experiments were conducted to investigate effects of dietary supplementation of concentrated pomegranate extract (CPE) on performance of lactating cows. In Experiment 1, we determined effects of dose of CPE on cows’ voluntary intake and milk performance whereas, in Experiment 2, we measured effects of 40g CPE addition per kg total mixed ration (TMR) dry matter (DM) fed to lactating cows divided into three subgroups on udder health and milk production. In Experiment 1, effects of 10g CPE/kg DM and 40g CPE/kg DM addition resulted in a 3.9% and 4.9% increase in voluntary intake, respectively, compared to control cows. The higher intake and lower clinical mastitis incidences in cows fed 40, 20 and 10g CPE/kg DM supplements were reflected in a concomitant increase of 8.2%, 2.65% and 5.4%, respectively, in milk production compared to control cows. Milk antioxidant activity in cows fed the CPE supplements increased by 15.0–17.2% relative to control cows. In Experiment 2, 200 cows were divided into pairs to produce three subgroups fed control TMR and three subgroups fed 40g CPE/kg DM supplement mixed into the TMR. Each of the two low somatic cell count (L-SCC) subgroups (control versus CPE) used 34 cows in mid-lactation, whereas the two high somatic cell count (H-SCC) subgroups (control versus CPE) each used 33 cows in mid-lactation, and two

other subgroups (control versus CPE) each used 33 cows in early lactation. The three subgroups fed CPE produced more milk than their respective control subgroups, their milk SCC was lower, and the proportion of H-SCC cows at the end of the experiment was lower. Larger response to CPE addition on milk and milk energy yields seemed to occur in cows suffering from chronic mastitis and in cows in early lactation [A. Shabtay, M. Nikbachat, A. Zenou, E. Yosef, O. Arkin, O. Sneer, A. Shwimmer, A. Yaari, E. Budman, G. Agmon and J. Miron*(Department of Ruminant Sciences, Institute of Animal Science, Agricultural Research Organization, P.O. Box 6, 50250, Bet-Dagan, Israel), Animal Feed Science and Technology,2012, 175(1-2), 24-32].

NPARR 3(4), 2012-0366 Feeding value of sweet sorghum bagasse and leaf residues after juice extraction for bio-ethanol production fed to sheep as complete rations in diverse physical forms

The fodder value of sweet sorghum bagasse with leaf residues (SSBLR) remaining after juice extraction for bio-ethanol production as major diet ingredient was assessed in male growing sheep measuring intake, digestibility and growth rates. The SSBLR contributed about 450g/kg in total mixed rations and was offered as mash (8mm), pellets (16 mm) and feed block (SSBLR chopped). Chaffed SSBLR supplemented with the remaining concentrate components of the total mixed ration-offered for 2h before the chaffed SSBLR-served as a control. Six sheep were randomly allocated to each treatment, balancing the group weight. Intake of all SSBLR based rations was generally very high exceeding 42g/kg of sheep live weight in the control and feed block ration and intake was further increased to 52 and 56g/kg in the mash and pellets rations, respectively. Observed live weight gain in sheep fed mash and pellets were 133g/d and 130g/d, respectively, compared to

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90g/d and 81g/d observed in the feed block and control group, respectively. Organic matter digestibility was 0.59 and 0.58 in the mash and pellet group compared to 0.62 and 0.61 in the feed block and control group, respectively. All comparisons in mash and pellet versus feed block and control group were different (P<0.05). SSBLR can be utilized as major ration component thereby mitigating fodder shortages likely to arise from using sweet sorghum stalks for juice extraction for bio-ethanol production. Use of SSBLR as ration component for will also add to the economic viability of sweet sorghum ethanol value chains. In decentralized systems

where juice is extracted from sweet sorghum stalks in the villages and options of processing SSBLR are limited, SSBLR can be used in chopped form with similar efficiency than as component of processed feed block. In centralized system, generating large quantities of SSBLR, processing feed into mash and pellets would be advantageous for supporting higher livestock productivity and lower feed transport costs [S. Anandan*, Hazda Zoltan, A.A. Khan, D. Ravi and Michael Blümmel (International Livestock Research Institute, Patancheru 502324, India), Animal Feed Science and Technology, 2012, 175(3-4), 131-136].

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FOOD (incl. Dairy, Fishery, Poultry and other Plant and Animal products) NPARR 3(4), 2012-0367 Bioaccessible nutrients and bioactive components from fortified products prepared using finger millet (Eleusine coracana)

Finger millet (Eleusine coracana), a staple food in semi-arid parts of the world, is a rich source of nutrients and bioactive components comparable to rice and wheat but with higher fibre content. Unprocessed and processed finger millet (whole flour (WFM), sieved flour (SFM), wafers and vermicelli with altered matrices (added Fe or Zn or reduced fibre)) were analysed for chemical composition, bioaccessible Fe, Zn and Ca, in vitro digestible starch (IVSD) and protein (IVPD) and bioactive components (polyphenols and flavonoids).WFM and SFM flours differed significantly in their composition. Sieving decreased the content of both nutrients and antinutrients in WFM but increased their digestibility/bioaccessibility. WFM products with Zn and Fe showed highest IVPD, whereas SFM products with Fe showed highest IVSD. Products with externally added Fe and Zn showed maximum bioaccessibility of Fe and Zn respectively. WFM had the highest levels of total polyphenols and flavonoids, 4.18 and 15.85 g kg−1 respectively; however, bioaccessibility was highest in SFM vermicelli.The availability of nutrients and bioactive components was influenced by both processing methods and compositional alterations of the food matrix in finger millet products, and bioaccessibility of all constituents was higher in vermicelli (wet matrix) than in wafers (dry matrix). [Morteza Oghbaei* and Jamuna Prakash (Department of Food Science and Nutrition, University of Mysore, Mysore 570 006, Karnataka, India) Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture, 2012, 92(11), 2281-2290].

NPARR 3(4), 2012-0368 Antioxidant potential of curry (Murraya koenigii L.) and mint

(Mentha spicata) leaf extracts and their effect on colour and oxidative stability of raw ground pork meat during refrigeration storage

The aim of this study was to investigate the antioxidant activity of different solvent extracts of curry and mint leaf and their effect on colour and oxidative stability of raw ground pork meat stored at 4±1°C. The results indicated that among the two individual leaf categories, the ethanol extract of curry leaf (EHEC) and the water extract of mint leaf (WEM) showed higher DPPH and ABTS+ activity. EHEC also exhibited the highest total phenolic contents while these were the lowest for WEM. WEM showed the highest superoxide anionic scavenging activity (%). The pork meat samples treated with EHEC and WEM showed a decrease in the Hunter L- and a-values and a increase in b-value during storage at 4°C. However, the pH and TBARS values were higher in control samples irrespective of storage periods. In conclusion, EHEC and WEM have the potential to be used as natural antioxidants to minimise lipid oxidation of pork products[A.K. Biswas, M.K. Chatli and J. Sahoo (Department of Livestock Products Technology, College of Veterinary Science, Guru Angad Dev Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, PAU Campus, Ludhiana 241 004 (Punjab), India), Food Chemistry, 2012, 133 (2), 467-472].

NPARR 3(4), 2012-0369 Unexploited Acacia cyanophylla seeds: potential food sources of ω6 fatty acids and antioxidants

In order to investigate new sources of dietary phytochemicals, recent studies have focused on underexploited seeds. In this study the total lipid contents, fatty acid profiles and levels of soluble proteins, minerals and antioxidants in seeds from 12 Acacia cyanophylla ecotypes commonly grown in Tunisia were determined. Total lipids averaged 101.7 g kg−1 on a dry weight basis. Linoleic (61.11–65.45% of total

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fatty acid content), oleic (19.67-22.85%) and palmitic (9.18-9.98%) acids were the principal fatty acids. Smaller proportions of stearic (1.49-1.82%), vaccenic (1.13–2.05%) and palmitoleic (0.34-0.58%) acids were also quantified. Proteins (by Kjeldahl assay) averaged 107.2 g kg−1 on a dry weight basis. Total phenolics averaged 1.91 g gallic acid equivalent kg−1 dry weight (DW) and total flavonoids averaged 0.40 g rutin equivalent kg−1 DW. The free radical-scavenging activity determined by 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl assay averaged 0.59 mmol L−1 Trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity (TEAC), while that determined by 2,2′-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazo-line-6-sulfonic acid) assay averaged 0.28 mmol L−1 TEAC. The findings of this study confirm the presence of ω6 fatty acids at high levels in A. cyanophylla seeds. These metabolites could be used as such and/or extracted for the formulation of supplements and/or ingredients to provide a ratio close to the ideal for the ω3/ω6 balance [Nouha Youzbachi, Walid Elfalleh, Nizar Tlili, Stephane Gregoire, Olivier Berdeaux, Christian Salles, Saida Triki, Mohamed-Larbi Khouja, Abdelhamid Khaldi, and Nizar Nasri*

(Laboratoire de Biochimie, Campus Universitaire, Tunis 2092, Tunisia.) Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture, 92(7), 1526-1532].

NPARR 3(4), 2012-0370 Qualitative and quantitative analysis of the major phenolic compounds as antioxidants in barley and flaxseed hulls using HPLC/MS/MS

Both qualitative and quantitative analyses of the major phenolic compounds in barley and flaxseed hulls were conducted using reverse phase high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with photodiode array detection and quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry. Ferulic acid, p-coumaric acid, vanillic acid and vanillin were identified and quantified in four barley hull samples. Four ferulate dehydrodimers were also detected. The phenolic compounds of flaxseed hull were distinct from those of barley

hull. Three flaxseed hull samples varied significantly (P < 0.05) in their contents of secoisolariciresinol diglucoside (16.38-33.92 g kg−1), coumaric acid glucoside (35.68-49.22 g kg−1) and ferulic acid glucoside (5.07-15.23 g kg−1). The phytochemical profiles of co-extracts featured the major phenolic compounds from both barley and flaxseed hulls. The total phenolic content and 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radical-scavenging capacity varied significantly (P < 0.05) among different varieties of flaxseed and barley hulls.As agricultural by-products, barley and flaxseed hulls may be utilised as potential sources of functional food ingredients through extraction and concentration of the phytochemicals identified above [Meili Hao and Trust Beta*(Department of Food Science, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, R3T 2N2, Canada), Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture, 2012, 92(10), 2062-2068].

NPARR 3(4), 2012-0371 Effects of parboiled rice diet on oxidative stress parameters in kidney of rats with streptozotocin-induced diabetes

The effect of parboiled rice (PR) and white rice (WR) diets on oxidative stress (OS) parameters was investigated in the kidneys of rats with streptozotocin-induced diabetes (40�mg kg−1, iv). The experimental groups (n=8) were control fed with PR (CPR), control fed with WR, diabetic fed with PR, and diabetic fed with WR. After 30 days of treatment, all animals were anesthetized and exsanguinated before removal of kidneys, which were used to determine thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), lipid hydroperoxides, carbonyl protein, superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase (GPx), glutathione reductase, glutathione-S-transferase activities, and levels of glutathione (GSH). Total phenolic compounds were determined in WR and PR grains. Our data indicated that diabetes induced increase in TBARS and lipid hydroperoxides levels.

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Although PR has not prevented the rise in the levels of these measurements, its consumption by our animals resulted in higher GPx activity and GSH content than that of the CPR. Moreover, PR also presented concentration of total phenolic compounds 127% higher than WR grains. Thus, its consumption in this diabetic condition is suggested because this seems to confer greater protection against OS in the renal tissue of diabetic animals. [Isabela A. Finamor, Etiane

M.H. Saccol, Diogo Gabriel, Giovana M. Ourique, Ana P.K. Riffel, Signorá P. Konrad, Adriane Belló-Klein, Wania Partata, Bernardo Baldisserotto, Susana F. Llesuy and Maria A. Pavanato (Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Federal University of Santa Maria, 1000 Roraima Avenue, Camobi 97105-900, Santa Maria, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil), Journal of Medicinal Food, 2012, 15(7), 598-604].

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FRUITS NPARR 3(4), 2012-0372 Induction of apoptosis by ethanolic extract of mango peel and comparative analysis of the chemical constitutes of mango peel and flesh

The underlying mechanisms of the anticancer activity of the ethanolic extract of mango peel (EEMP) and its constituents were investigated. EEMP induced death of human cervical carcinoma HeLa cells through apoptosis, as evidenced by the increased cell population in the sub-G1 phase and the appearance of fragmented nuclei. Treatment of the cells with EEMP also downregulated anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 expression, resulting in the proteolytic activation of caspase-3, 7, 8, and 9 and the degradation of poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) protein. The major components of mango peel were identified by liquid chromatography–electrospray ionisation tandem mass spectrometry and gas chromatography–mass spectrometry. Our data suggest that EEMP is an excellent source of quercetin 3-O-galactoside, mangiferin gallate, isomangiferin gallate, quercetin-3-O-arabinopyranoside, and mangiferin along with unsaturated fatty acids oleic acid, linoleic acid, and ethyl linoleate, which may help to prevent cervical cancer and may be a useful agent for the treatment of some other malignancies [Hyeonji Kim, Hana Kim, Ashik Mosaddik, Rajendra Gyawali, Kwang Seok Ahn and Somi Kim Cho* (Jeju National University, Jeju 690-756, Republic of KoreaSeoul 130-701, Republic of Korea), Food Chemistry,2012,133(2), 416-422].

NPARR 3(4), 2012-0373 Pomegranate extract demonstrate a selective estrogen receptor modulator profile in human tumor cell lines and in vivo models of estrogen deprivation

Selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs) are estrogen receptor (ER) ligands exhibiting tissue-specific agonistic or antagonistic biocharacter and are used in the

hormonal therapy for estrogen-dependent breast cancers. Pomegranate fruit has been shown to exert antiproliferative effects on human breast cancer cells in vitro. In this study, we investigated the tissue-specific estrogenic/ antiestrogenic activity of methanol extract of pericarp of pomegranate (PME). PME was evaluated for antiproliferative activity at 20-320 μg/ml on human breast (MCF-7, MDA MB-231) endometrial (HEC-1A), cervical (SiHa, HeLa), ovarian (SKOV3) carcinoma and normal breast fibroblast (MCF-10A) cells. Competitive radioactive binding studies were carried out to ascertain whether PME interacts with ER. The reporter gene assay measured the estrogenic/antiestrogenic activity of PME in MCF-7 and MDA MB-231 cells transiently transfected with plasmids coding estrogen response elements with a reporter gene (pG5-ERE-luc) and wild-type ERα (hEG0-ER). PME inhibited the binding of [3H] estradiol to ER and suppressed the growth and proliferation of ER-positive breast cancer cells. PME binds ER and down-regulated the transcription of estrogen-responsive reporter gene transfected into breast cancer cells. The expressions of selected estrogen-responsive genes were down-regulated by PME. Unlike 17β-estradiol [1 mg/kg body weight (BW)] and tamoxifen (10 mg/kg BW), PME (50 and 100 mg/kg BW) did not increase the uterine weight and proliferation in ovariectomized mice and its cardioprotective effects were comparable to that of 17β-estradiol. In conclusion, our findings suggest that PME displays a SERM profile and may have the potential for prevention of estrogen-dependent breast cancers with beneficial effects in other hormone-dependent tissues [Sreekumar Sreeja, Thankayyan R. Santhosh Kumar, Baddireddi S. Lakshmi and Sreeharshan Sreeja (Integrated Cancer Research Program, Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology, Thycaud P.O., Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala 695 014, India), The Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry, 2012, 23(7), 725-732].

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NPARR 3(4), 2012-0374 Effect of N and K application on yield and quality of pomegranate cv. Ganesh under rainfed conditions

The pomegranate plants were treated with five levels of nitrogen (250, 375, 500, 625 and 750 g/plant) and potassium (200, 300, 400, 500 and 600 g/plant) to evaluate their influence on fruit yield and quality. The plants were raised and maintained under crescent bund with open catchment pits. Basal dose of FYM (15 kg/plant) and phosphorus (250 g/plant) were applied in mid December. Full dose of phosphorus (single super phosphate), potassium (muriate of potash) and half of nitrogen (calcium ammonium nitrate) were applied in the first fortnight of January and second half in the second fortnight of May. The experiments were conducted in randomized block design with three replications. The maximum fruit set (28.85 and 27.37%), fruit yield (14.94 and 14.91 kg), TSS (16.07 and 16%), total sugars (11.46 and 11.44%), non-reducing sugars (2.80 and 2.68%) and reducing sugars (9.56 and 9.58%) were recorded with the treatment N3K4

(N-500 and K 500 g/plant). Whereas, maximum fruit weight (458.3 and 458.1 g) and fruits with high acidity (0.52 and 0.54%) were obtained with N5K4 (N-750: K-500) and N5K5 (N-750: K-600) for both the years. The vitamin C content of the fruits was reported to increase with the higher doses of N and K (16.36 and 16.40 mg/100 g, respectively). The fruits with minimum yield, lowest TSS, total sugars, non reducing sugars and reducing sugars were obtained with higher doses of N and K (N-750: K-600) application. Thus, the application of N and K at optimum level of 500 g/plant/year of each was found to be superior as compared to other treatments for enhancing fruit set, yield, and quality [Kashyap Poonam*, Pramanick K.K, Meena K.K. and Meena Vijay (Project Directorate for Farming System Research, Modipuram, Meerut-250110, Uttar Pradesh) Indian Journal of Horticulture, 2012, 69 (3), 322-327].

NPARR 3(4), 2012-0375 Effect of chitosan–lemon essential oil coatings on storage-keeping quality of strawberry

Film-forming dispersions (FFD) were prepared with 1% high molecular weight chitosan and 3% lemon essential oil and were submitted to two different homogenization treatments. The particle size and viscosity of the FFD were evaluated and stand-alone coatings were charac-terized in terms of water vapour permeability (WVP) and antimicrobial activity. The FFD were applied to cold-stored strawberries, cv. Camarosa, and the physicochemical properties, fungal decay and respiration rate of strawberries were determined throughout cold storage at 5°C. The use of microfluidization to prepare chitosan-based FFD led to a significant reduction in the particle size and apparent viscosity of the dispersions, with no significant effect on the decrease in the WVP of the stand-alone coatings. Chitosan coatings did not show a significant effect in terms of the acidity, pH and soluble solid content of strawberries throughout storage. In contrast, coatings slowed down the respiration rate of samples when lemon essential oil was added to the FFD. Adding lemon essential oil enhanced the chitosan antifungal activity both in in vitro tests and during cold storage in strawberries inoculated with a spore suspension of Botrytis cinerea [A. Perdones, L. Sánchez-González, A. Chiralt and M. Vargas*(Instituto Universitario de Ingeniería de Alimentos para el Desarrollo, Departamento de Tecnología de Alimentos, Universitat Politècnica de València, Camino de Vera s/n, 46022 Valencia, Spain), Postharvest Biology and Technology, 2012, 70, 32-41].

NPARR 3(4), 2012-0376 Use of honey bees (Apis mellifera L.) to detect the presence of Mediterranean fruit fly (Ceratitis capitata Wiedemann) larvae in Valencia oranges

When fruit deteriorates a characteristic profile of volatile chemicals is produced that is different from that produced by healthy fruits.

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The identification of such chemicals allows the possibility of monitoring the fruit for early signs of deterioration with biological sensors. The use of honey bees and other insects as biological sensors is well known. This study aimed to identify the volatiles produced by oranges infested with larvae of the Mediterranean fruit fly and to test the ability of honey bees, conditioned to this volatile chemical profile, to detect such oranges.Seventeen compounds that were present in higher concentrations in the volatile profiles of infested oranges than in those of insect-free fruits were mixed at the same relative concentrations as those in the collected volatiles of infested oranges. The synthetic mixture was used to train honey bees by classical Pavlovian conditioning and subsequent tests showed that they were then able to discriminate between medfly-infested and uninfested oranges.This study demonstrates an innovative way of detecting, at an early stage, the symptoms of damage to oranges by the Mediterranean fruit fly.[ Keith Chamberlain*, Mathilde Briens, Jennifer H Jacobs, Suzanne J Clark and John A Pickett(Rothamsted Research, Harpenden, Hertfordshire, AL5 2JQ, UK), Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture, 2012, 92(10), 2050-2054].

NPARR 3(4), 2012-0377 Underutilized citron (Citrus medica L.) fruit for development of value-added products and their ambient storage

The fresh fruits of citron were collected, washed, peel separated, juice extracted, filtered and pasteurized. The juice squash was prepared as per the FPO specifications and juice powder with a standardized protocol. Juice was fed in spray dryer @ 2.5 ml/min., atomized under vacuum conditions at −30-40 mm/WC. Free flow powder recovery was of 10% along with the particle size ranging from 0.44 - 0.77 micron of juice with unaltered flavour, colour, aroma, texture, TSS and reduced vitamin'C’ content for 12 months under ambient (32 ± 2°C) storage conditions with acceptable limit of limonin. Citron squash had 12 months shelf-life under ambient storage conditions. The TSS, acidity, colour and pH of squash were recorded to be unchanged except vitamin ‘C’ and carotenoid contents, which reduced slightly during ambient storage conditions. The pectin and oil content in peel were recorded to be of 0.41 and 0.051%, respectively. However, mature stage leaf oil content was founds to be 0.134%. The oil aldehyde content were analyzed and found higher in leaf than the peel oil, indicating the potentialities of citron fruits valueadded products for its commercial scale production [Ram Lallan* and Kumar Dinesh (National Research Centre for Citrus, Amravati Road, Nagpur-440010, Maharashtra), Indian Journal of Horticulture, 2012, 69(1), 140-143].

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FUEL (incl. Biogas, Biodiesel, Biomass energy, Ethanol etc.) NPARR 3(4), 2012-0378 Extraction of pennycress (Thlaspi arvense L.) seed oil by full pressing

Pennycress is currently being developed as an oilseed crop for biofuel production. Pennycress seeds harvested from a field near Peoria, Illinois, provided our first opportunity to conduct an oil extraction study on a pilot scale. The goals of this study were to determine the effects of seed moisture and cooking on the pressing characteristics of pennycress seeds and to evaluate the quality of the oils extracted. Pennycress seeds (60 kg) with 9.5 and 16% moisture contents (MC) were cooked and dried (82-104°C) using a steam-heated 3-deck laboratory seed cooker. The residence times were varied to produce cooked seeds with MCs ranging from 1.0 to 13.0%. The cooked seeds were pressed immediately using a heavy duty laboratory screw press. Pressing rate, press load, and residual oil in the press cakes were determined. The oils extracted were analyzed for solids content (foots), free fatty acid (FFA) content, color, and phosphorus (P), calcium (Ca), magnesium (Mg), and sulfur (S) contents. Pressing uncooked pennycress seeds with 9.5% MC produced press cake with 10.7% oil (db), extracting 75.1% of the oil in the seed. Cooking and drying the seeds between 3 and 4% MC provided the highest oil recovery at 86.3 and 88.0% for seeds with 9.5 and 16% starting seed MC, respectively. The pressing rates and press loads at these MCs were similar. Compared to the oil from uncooked seeds, the oils from cooked seeds had higher foots (1.55-1.73% vs. 0.52%), slightly higher FFA contents (0.40-0.46% vs. 0.30%), and slightly higher red values in AOCS RY color scale (4.1R–6.2R vs. 2.4R). Cooking increased the phosphatide content but the amount was still comparable to degummed oils. The sulfur levels in the expelled oil were higher than

the amounts found in rapeseed oil and varied considerably depending on the seed moisture and the extent of cooking employed [ Roque L. Evangelista*, Terry A. Isbell and Steven C. Cermak (Bio-Oils Research Unit, National Center for Agricultural Utilization Research, Agricultural Research Service, USDA, 1815 N. University Street, Peoria, IL, 61604, USA), Industrial Crops and Products, 2012, 37(1), 76-81].

NPARR 3(4), 2012-0379 Optimization of ethanol production from microwave alkali pretreated rice straw using statistical experimental designs by Saccharomyces cerevisiae

Ethanol production from agro-waste provides an alternative energy-production system. Statistical experimental designs were used for optimization of critical nutrients and process variables for ethanol production. The critical nutrients and process variables were initially selected according to a Placket-Burman (PB) design. Selected factors (inoculum level 1–5%, pH 4.5-7, temperature 25-35°C and urea concentration 0.25-0.75g/L) were optimized by response surface methodology (RSM) based on a three-level four-factor Box–Behnken design (BBD). Under optimum conditions of inoculum level 3%, pH 5.75, temperature 30°C and urea concentration 0.50g/L maximum ethanol production obtained 13.2 g/L from microwave alkali pretreated rice straw with ethanol productivity 0.33g/L/h. Under optimum conditions ethanol production studied at fermenter level and obtained ethanol concentration 19.2g/L, ethanol productivity 0.53g/L/h and ethanol yield to consumed sugar 0.50g/g. These results indicated that ethanol production can be enhanced by optimization of nutritional and process variables [Anita Singh and Narsi R. Bishnoi (Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, Guru Jambheshwar University of Science and Technology, Hisar-25001, Haryana, India),

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Industrial Crops and Products, 2012, 37(1), 334-341].

NPARR 3(4), 2012-0380 Quality of biodiesel and press cake obtained from Euphorbia lathyris, Brassica napus and Ricinus communis

Euphorbia lathyris L. is a weed that grows in central and southern Chile. Its seeds have a high oil content, as do those of Brassica napus L. and Ricinus communis L. The oils of these species can be used for biodiesel production. The objectives of this study were to evaluate the yield and quality of biodiesel produced from the oil of E. lathyris, as compared with that of B. napus and R. communis, and to characterize chemically its press cake. The biodiesel was elaborated using basic transesterification on the laboratory scale. We determined the yield of biodiesel and its main quality parameters according to current quality standards. The press cake was characterized chemically and its caloric value was determined. The results indicate that it is possible to produce biodiesel from the oil of E. lathyris with a yield of 91.1%; the quality of the E. lathyris biodiesel was equivalent to that obtained using B. napus oil and superior to that obtained with R. communis oil. Given their properties, the press cakes resulting from the oil extraction process of E. lathyris and the other two plants studied can be used in other productive processes such as the production of biofertilizers or thermal energy (17.75-23.84MJ kg−1) [Nelson Zapata*, Marisol Vargas, José F. Reyes, Guillermo Belmar (Departamento Producción Vegetal, Facultad de Agronomía, Universidad de Concepción, Avenida Vicente Méndez 595, Chillan, Chile), Industrial Crops and Products, 2012, 38, 1-5].

NPARR 3(4), 2012-0381 Physical-chemical properties and thermal behavior of fodder radish crude oil and biodiesel

In this paper the characteristics of fodder radish, a potential biodiesel source, are

investigated. Recent developments in fodder radish biodiesel production and studies on the composition of fodder chemical structure are reviewed. The physical-chemical characteristics of fodder radish crude oil and biodiesel were measured and compared with available literature data and biodiesel specifications. The measured properties were density, kinematic viscosity, carbon residue, sulfur content, acid number and iodine value. A thermogravimetric analysis to evaluate the thermal behavior of fodder radish crude oil and biodiesel is included. The results show that fodder radish biodiesel can meet physical–chemical property specifications, although its acid number requires attention [Ronaldo Nunes de Andrade Ávila and José Ricardo Sodré (FIAT Automobiles S.A., Material Testing Division, Rodovia Fernão Dias, BR 381, km 429, 32530-000 Betim, MG, Brazil, Pontifical Catholic University of Minas Gerais, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Av. Dom José Gaspar, 500, 30535-901 Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil), Industrial Crops and Products, 2012, 38, 54-57].

NPARR 3(4), 2012-0382 Physico-chemical characterization of rubber seed oil (Hevea brasiliensis)-a promising feedstock for biodiesel production

In India, the main source of energy is obtained from fossil fuels and the demand for energy is keeps on increasing. The depleting petroleum fuel resources, price hike, non-renewable nature and the emission of pollutant urges the need for the development of an alternative source of fuel which could be easily available, economic and eco-friendly. One among the alternative renewable fuel is “Biodiesel” which is obtained from vegetable oils. Biodiesel is biodegradable, easily available and also offers lubricity which extends engine life. There are about 400 oil yielding crops in India. In India, Rubber tree is primarily cultivated for it latex. But it’s by product namely the Rubber seed oil is

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not utilized much. In the present study, the physico-chemical properties of rubber seed oil for the potentiality for the production of biodiesel and it was found to be efficient biodiesel resources which meets the ASTM standard for biodiesel. The rubber oil cake was analyzed and

it was found to control the weeds, diseases and it is an efficient biofertilizer [VN Meena Devi*, P Nagendra Prasad, L Arul Mary Syndia, M Rajakohila and VN Ariharan, International Journal of Chemical and Analytical Science, 2012, 3 (5)].

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INSECTICIDES (incl. Fungicides, Herbicides, Nematicides, Larvicides, etc.) NPARR 3(4), 2012-0383 Pre and post emergence herbicides for weed control in castor crop

Weed management is among the main factors limiting cultivation of castor (Ricinus communis) in extensive fields, particularly when labor is scarce or expensive. This experiment evaluated the efficiency of weed management programs using preemergence (clomazone, pendimethalin, and trifluralin) and a postemergence herbicide (chlorimuron-ethyl) applied at 20 days after emergence in castor plants cv. BRS Energia under rainfed conditions in Apodi, Brazil. No phytotoxicity was observed on the castor plants, and the postemergence herbicide significantly increased castor seed yield to 1466 kg ha−1 complementing the weed control of preemergence herbicides treatments in which seed yield was 1207 kg ha−1. Seed yield on weedy and weed-free treatments was 760 and 1971 kg ha−1, respectively. Weeds were kept under a satisfactory control up to 40 days after emergence. This program resulted in reasonable weed control because the preemergence herbicides controled monocotyledon weeds, while the postemergence [Valdinei Sofiatti, Liv S. Severino*, Franklin M.O. Silva, Vivianny N.B. Silva and Giovani G. Brito (Texas Tech University, Dep. Plant and Soil Science, Lubbock, TX 79409-2122, United States), Industrial Crops and Products, 2012, 37(1), 235-237]. NPARR 3(4), 2012-0384 Laboratory evaluation of the effect of Khaya senegalensis and Cassia occidentalis ethanolic leaves extracts against worker termites (Isoptera: Rhinotermitidoe) on treated wood sample

Khaya senegalensis and Cassia occidentalis ethanolic leaves extract were

evaluated for their effectiveness to suppress wood damage by termite at the Department of Biological Sciences, Bayero University, Kano, Nigeria. K. senegalensis was collected from Nana hall female hostel, old campus of Bayero University Kano, and C. occidentalis was collected from wild areas of Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital Zaria Road, Kano. Both plants were identified at the herbarium of the Department of Biological Sciences. The leaves were extracted using Soxhlets extraction method. Termite was collected at Bayero University quarters, new site and identified using taxonomic key. Wood sample used for the bioassay were collected from a carpenter shop at Tarauni Local Government Kano and was disinfested by drying in an oven at 60°C overnight. Bioassay was conducted in plastic containers. Extracts from these plants were separately prepared into different concentration (0.5, 1.0 and 1.5 g) and inoculated into separate plastic containers containing 20 g of disinfested wood sample which correspond to 2.5, 5.0 and 7.5% w/w, respectively. Forty (40) workers termite were introduced into these containers separately. Control treatment was set along. Each treatment was replicated three times; mortality of the insect was assessed after 24 h interval. This study indicated that both C. occidentalis and K. senegalensis ethanolic extracts at varying level of application recorded mortality of the workers termite within the shortest duration of application when compared with the untreated wood. 100% mortality of workers termite was observed on wood treated with C. occidentalis extract at all level of application after 120 h of treatment while 100% mortality of the workers termite was recorded on wood treated with K. senegalensis at all level of application after 240 h of treatment. This indicated that extract of C. occidentalis was more effective than the extract of K. senegalensis in killing workers termite on wood treated with the extract [N. Abdullahi*, S. Yahya, M. Yushau and Z. Tukur (Department of Biological Sciences, Bayero University, Kano, Kano State,

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Nigeria.), Journal of Stored Products and Postharvest Research, 2012, 3(11), 152-155].

NPARR 3(4), 2012-0385 Management of Macrophomina wilt in melons using grafting or fungicide soil application: Pathological, horticultural and economical aspects

Melon cultivation in the Yizre’el Valley of northern Israel is threatened by plant wilting that occurs toward harvest. Macrophomina phaseolina is the most common fungus isolated from the wilted plants. Disease management using grafted plants or soil application of fungicides to non-grafted melons during the growing season was studied. For the grafting experiments, two Ananas-type melons (Cucumis melo L.), cv. 6405 and Eyal, were grafted onto interspesific F1Cucurbita rootstock TZ-148 and transplanted at spacings of 60, 90, 120 and 180 cm within rows in M. phaseolina infested soil to test their ability to cope with the disease and to evaluate the profitability of grafted plant cultivation at different spacings. Grafted plants did not wilt, compared to 80 and 70% wilting of non-grafted melon plants in experiments conducted in 2006 and 2008, respectively. Cultivation of grafted melons in infested soil for the local market was shown to be profitable, even with a 50% reduction in transplant number for a given area (120 cm between transplants). In addition, selection of the right melon cultivar as scion was shown to be crucial to the success of the crop. In another set of experiments conducted in summer 2010 with non-grafted melon plants, application of the fungicides azoxystrobin alone or combined with chlorothalonil or medenoxam reduced disease incidence to 5% as compared to 45% in the untreated control. Disease management using both cultural and chemical approaches is discussed [Ron Cohen,Nabil Omari, Asaf Porat and Menahem Edelstein (Department of Plant Pathology, Institute of Crop Protection, A.R.O., The Volcani Center, Newe Ya’ar, P.O. Box 1021, Ramat-Yishay 30095, Israel), Crop Protection, 2012, 35, 58-63].

NPARR 3(4), 2012-0386 Effect of phenolic acids from black currant, sour cherry and walnut on grain aphid (Sitobion avenae F.) development

The influence of naturally-occurring phenolic acid mixtures from selected plants was tested against the grain aphid (Sitobion avenae F.). Phenolic acids were extracted from the leaves of black currant (Ribes nigrum L.), sour cherry (Prunus cerasus L.) and walnut (Juglans regia L.), as well as from the green husks of walnut. The highest content of total phenolic acids and individual compounds such as p-hydroxybenzoic, p-coumaric, chlorogenic and vanillic acids were determined in J. regia. Ferulic and tannic acids were found only in J. regia. In laboratory bioassays, the phenolic acids extracted from plants prolonged the aphid prereproductive period by 1.5-3.0 days and reduced daily fecundity by 1-1.5 offspring. The strongest effects were observed after application of phenolic acids from the leaves and green husks of J. regia. The grain aphid used glutathione S-transferase (GST), peroxidase (POD) and polyphenol oxidase (PPO) in response to the application of plant phenolic acids. An increase in aphid GST activity was found in response to treatment with all extracts. Induction of PPO and POD was shown 24 h after the application of phenolic acids mixture from leaves of walnut; inhibition was observed after 48 and 168 h in response to treatment with both extracts of walnut. An inverse relationship between the POD and PPO activity of the aphids was found 24 h after application of the black currant and sour cherry phenolic acids. After 168 h, the activities of these enzymes were higher in treated aphids compared to unsprayed insects. Mixtures of phenolic acids naturally occurring in phenol-rich plants might be used as biopesticides to control the grain aphid as a part of an integrated pest management programme [Grzegorz Chrzanowski,, Bogumił Leszczyński*, Paweł Czerniewicz, Hubert Sytykiewicz, Henryk Matok, Robert Krzyżanowski and Cezary

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Sempruch (Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Siedlce University of Natural Sciences and Humanities, 12 Prusa St., 08-110 Siedlce, Poland), Crop Protection, 2012, 35, 71–77].

NPARR 3(4), 2012-0387 Control of postharvest radish decay using a Cryptococcus albidus yeast coating formulation

An antagonist yeast strain, WY-1, was identified using 18S and internal transcribed spacer (ITS) 1-5.8S-ITS2 rDNA region sequences. The 18S and ITS1-5.8S-ITS2 rDNA sequences of this yeast strain were amplified and sequenced using the universal primer pairs NS1/NS8 and ITS4/ITS5. The ITS1-5.8S-ITS2 rDNA sequence and 18S neighbor-joining tree showed that WY-1 was a strain of Cryptococcus albidus. The biocontrol activity of C. albidus WY-1 on postharvest decay of radishes caused by Alternaria spp. and Fusarium spp. was investigated. In vitro, at 108 CFU ml−1C. albidus WY-1 inhibited the mycelial weight increases of Alternaria spp. and Fusarium spp. by 45.3% and 59.6%, respectively. In vivo, infection incidence and lesion development of radish decay were suppressed by the application of C. albidus WY-1 at 108 CFU ml−1. After 6 days of incubation at 20°C or 24 days at 4°C, disease incidences were 2.8% and 1.4%, respectively; however, the disease incidences of control fruit were 98.6% and 87.5% under these incubation conditions, respectively. Application of C. albidus WY-1 and the chemical fungicide thiabendazole were statistically just as effective. Finally, C. albidus cell counts around inoculation sites remained high at 4°C even 32 days after inoculation (6.7 ×105CFU per cm2).[ Xiuling Chen, Jingfu Li, Lili Zhang, Xiangyang Xu, Aoxue Wang, Yijun Yang (College of Life Science, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, Heilongjiang Province, 150030, PR China), Crop Protection, 2012, 41, 88-95].

NPARR 3(4), 2012-0388 Repellency and toxicity of essential oils from Cymbopogon

martinii, Cymbopogon flexuosus and Lippia origanoides cultivated in Colombia against Tribolium castaneum

A large number of plant essential oils have been used against diverse insect pests. Unlike conventional pesticides, usually these natural products present less risk to humans and the environment. This study was conducted to determine the repellent activity and toxicity of the essential oils isolated from Cymbopogon martinii “palmarosa”, Cymbopogon flexuosus “lemongrass”, and Lippia origanoides “wild oregano” against Tribolium castaneum Herbst (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae), using the area preference and contact toxicity on filter papers methods, respectively. The repellent action of the oils decreased in the order Cymbopogon martinii>C. flexuosus≈L. origanoides. All oils were more effective as repellents than the commercial product IR3535. Tested oils also depicted low toxicity, showing less than 20% lethality at maximum tested concentration (1.2μL/cm2) and exposure period (72h). These results suggest that the essential oils evaluated in this study may be useful in repellent formulations against T. castaneum [Karina Caballero-Gallardo, Jesús Olivero-Verbel* and Elena E. Stashenko (Chromatography Laboratory, Research Centre of Excellence, CENIVAM, Industrial University of Santander, Bucaramanga, Colombia), Journal of Stored Products Research, 2012, 50, 62-65].

NPARR 3(4), 2012-0389 Antibacterial activity of plant extracts obtained with alternative organics solvents against food-borne pathogen bacteria

The objectives of this study were: the chemical characterization of extracts from seven plants (Larrea tridentata, Flourensia cernua, Lippia graveolens, Agave lechuguilla, Yucca filifera, Opuntia ficus-indica, and Carya illinoensis) which are acclimated to the Mexican semi-desert. The extracts were obtained using

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Soxhlet method by water, ethanol and an infusion method using alternative organic solvents (lanolin and cocoa butter), in addition it was evaluated the antibacterial activity of semi-desert plant extracts against Enterobacter aerogenes, Escherichia coli, Salmonella typhi and Staphylococcus aureus. Chemical characterization of plant extracts showed that they are rich in secondary metabolites; cocoa butter was the non-conventional solvent which it was possible to obtain the highest content of total tannins. It was not possible to identify saponins in those extracts where non conventional solvents were used. While in extract where non conventional solvents were used, it was only possible to detect the presence of terpenes in creosote bush and prickly pear extracts. S. aureus was the bacterial strain that showed the highest growth inhibition as consequence of the plant extracts. The use of semi-desert plant extracts obtained using organic solvents are a good alternative for food-borne pathogen bacteria control because all the bacterial growth decreased with the tested extracts. [Martha Mendez, Raúl Rodríguez*, Judith RuizDiana Morales-Adame, Francisco Castillo, Francisco D. Hernández-Castillo, and Cristóbal N. Aguilar (Department of Food Research, School of Chemistry, Universidad Autónoma de Coahuila, 25000 Saltillo, Coahuila, Mexico), Industrial Crops and Products, 2012, 37(1), 445-450].

NPARR 3(4), 2012-0390 Control of foliar diseases of tea with Xanthium strumarium leaf extract

Tea industry forms the backbone of economy

in the sub-Himalayan agro-climatic region of north east India where it is normally grown extensively in large plantations. The study was aimed to develop a bio-rational alternative to the harmful chemical fungicides for controlling foliar fungal diseases which limit tea production. An antifungal compound from benzene extract of adult leaves from Xanthium strumarium L. was

purified and characterized and the in vitro antifungal activity was evaluated against a broad spectrum of plant pathogens. The sesquiterpene lactone which was purified by bioassay guided fractionation using repeated column chromatography and thin layer chromatography was identified as xanthatin by ultraviolet, infrared and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopic analysis. The minimum inhibitory concentration of the isolated compound tested by microdilution method ranged from <0.0097 to 0.325mgml−1 against 8 tea pathogens and 12 other plant pathogens. The most susceptible fungi were Colletotrichum camelliae, Curvularia eragrostidis and Rhizoctonia solani among tea pathogens and Colletotrichum gloeosporioides, Fusarium moniliforme and Rhizopus stolonifer among other tested pathogens. Subsequently the in vivo antifungal activity was tested in detached leaves against four foliar tea pathogens, C. camelliae, C. eragrostidis, Lasidiplodia theobromae and Pestalotiopsis theae. The purified compound completely inhibited lesion development at 0.1 mg ml−1 concentration against C. camelliae and C. eragrostidis. The purified compound and the crude extract were further tested for their ability to control foliar diseases in young tea plants of two clonal varieties, TV-18 and TV-30 in the greenhouse. The water insoluble extracts emulsified in water effectively controlled brown blight (C. camelliae), leaf spot (C. eragrostidis), grey blight (P. theae) and leaf blight (L. theobromae). Highest percentage efficacy of disease control was exhibited against leaf spot followed by brown blight. The disease control efficacy was comparable to the fungicide bavistin. The results show that the adult leaves of X. strumarium may be used as a source of botanical fungicidal preparation for controlling foliar fungal diseases of tea [Dipanwita Saha*, Ramashish Kumar, S. Ghosh, M. Kumari, Aniruddha Saha (Department of Biotechnology, North Bengal University, Dist. – Darjeeling, Siliguri-734013, India), Industrial Crops and Products, 2012, 37, (1), 376-382].

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MANURE/FERTILIZERS NPARR 3(4), 2012-0391 Organic mulches affecting yield, quality and diseases of ginger in mid hills of North Eastern Himalayas

Field experiments were conducted during 2004-09 at ICAR Sikkim Centre, Tadong at an altitude of 1,400 m AMSL to identify suitable organic mulch material for higher yield and dsisease suppression in local ginger cv. Bhaisey. Green leaves of Artemisia vulgaris, Schima wallichii, Eupatorium odoratum, Alnus nepalensis and Datura spp. were used as organic mulches. Among the different tree leaf mulches used in ginger, the maximum yield was recorded for Schima wallichii (35,388.40 kg/ha) which was followed by Datura spp. (21766.80 kg/ha). The

highest incidence of bacterial wilt (38%), soft rot (48%), and leaf spot (40%) was recorded in the control plots, whereas the lowest incidence of bacterial wilt (8%), soft rot (12%) and leaf spot (35%) was recorded under S. wallichii treatment followed by Datura spp. mulching. Schima wallichii mulch recorded significantly higher number of leaves (22.40), rhizome length (9.00 cm), and No. of fingers/plant (41.00) as compared to all other organic mulching materials. Highest b:C ratio (4.88) was found in mulching with S. wallichii followed by Datura spp. mulching (3.0) in organic ginger production [Kumar Ashok*, Avasthe R.K., Borah Tasvina R., Lepcha Boniface and Pandey Brijesh (ICAR Research Complex for NEH Region, Sikkim Centre, Tadong, Gangtok-737102, Sikkim), Indian Journal of Horticulture, 2012, 69, (3), 439-442].

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OILS/FATS (incl. Edible oils, Butter) NPARR 3(4), 2012-0392 Variation in oil content and fatty acid composition of the seed oil of Acacia species collected from the northwest zone of India

The oil content and fatty acid composition of the mature seeds of Acacia species collected from natural habitat of the northwest zone of the Indian subcontinent (Rajasthan) were analyzed in order to determine their potential for human or animal consumption.Oil content varied between 40 and 102 g kg−1. The highest oil content was obtained in Acacia bivenosa DC. (102 g kg−1) among the nine Acacia species. The fatty acid composition showed higher levels of unsaturated fatty acids, especially linoleic acid (∼757.7 g kg−1 in A. bivenosa), oleic acid (∼525.0 g kg−1 in A. nubica) and dominant saturated fatty acids were found to be 192.5 g kg−1 palmitic acid and 275.6 g kg−1 stearic acid in A. leucophloea and A. nubica respectively. Seed oils of Acacia species can thus be classified in the linoleic–oleic acid group. Significant variations were observed in oil content and fatty acid composition of Acacia species.The present study revealed that the seed oil of Acacia species could be a new source of high linoleic–oleic acid-rich edible oil and its full potential should be exploited. The use of oil from Acacia seed is of potential economic benefit to the poor native population of the areas where it is cultivated. The fatty acid composition of Acacia seed oils is very similar to that reported for commercially available edible vegetable oils like soybean, mustard, sunflower, groundnut and olive. Hence, the seed oil of Acacia species could be a new source of edible vegetable oil after toxicological studies [Riyazuddeen Khan, Ruchi Srivastava, Mather Ali Khan, Pravej Alam, Malik Zainul Abdin,*and Mahmooduzzafr (Centre for Transgenic Plant Development, Department of Biotechnology, Jamia Hamdard, Hamdard Nagar, New Delhi-110062, India), Journal of the Science

of Food and Agriculture, 2012, 92(11), 2310-2315].

NPARR 3(4), 2012-0393 Effect of heating oils and fats in containers of different materials on their trans fatty acid content

The nature of the container material and temperature employed for deep-frying can have an influence on the development of trans fatty acids (TFAs) in the fat used. The present study was undertaken to determine the effect of heating vegetable oils and partially hydrogenated vegetable fats with different initial TFA content in stainless steel, Hindalium (an aluminium alloy), cast iron and glass containers. Ground nut oil (oil 1), refined, bleached and deodorised (RBD) palmolein (oil 2) and two partially hydrogenated vegetable oils with low (fat 1) and high (fat 2) TFA content were uniformly heated at 175-185°C over a period of 12 h.An increase in TFA content to 20 g kg−1 was observed in oil 2 in the cast iron container, while a decrease in TFA content of 20-30 g kg−1 was observed in fat 2 in all containers. The heating process of fats and oils also led to an increase in Butyro refractometer reading and colour values.This study showed that the TFA 18:1t content of oil 1, oil 2 and fat 1 increased with repeated or prolonged heating. The cast iron container showed the highest increase in TFA 18:1t for RBD palmolein (oil 2). The amount of linoleic acid trans isomers formed in the heating process was negligible. Fat 2 with high initial TFA content showed a decrease in TFA 18:1 and 18:2 on heating in all containers. Oils heated in glass and stainless steel containers showed less TFA 18:1t formation [ AL Amrutha Kala*, Vishal Joshi and KN Gurudutt), Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture, 2012 92(11), 2227–2233].

NPARR 3(4), 2012-0394 Eri silkworm: a source of edible oil with a high content of α-linolenic acid and of significant nutritional value

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The study was undertaken to provide value addition to spent eri silkworm as an alternative source of edible oil for the food and feed industry by carrying out a short-term nutritional and toxicological evaluation of eri silkworm pupae oil using Wistar NIN rats.Growth performance of rats fed either sunflower oil (Control) or eri silkworm pupae oil (Experimental) was comparable. Histo-pathological examination of the various tissues showed no signs of toxicity even after feeding the eri silkworm oil for 18 weeks. Serum cholesterol and triglyceride was significantly reduced (P < 0.05) while high-density lipoprotein cholesterol was significantly increased (P < 0.05) which is attributed to the high α-linolenic acid content of eri silkworm oil.The study showed that eri silkworm pupae oil is safe and nutritionally equivalent to commonly used vegetable oils. Eri silkworm pupae can be harvested to provide cost effective alternative edible oil that can be used to nutritional advantage in the food and feed industry. Therefore eri silkworm and its host plants offer an excellent example of multiple product crops and of sustainable agricultural practice with excellent opportunity for economic and nutritional benefits [Thingnganing Longvah*, Korra Manghtya, and Syed S Y H Qadri (National Institute of Nutrition, Jamai Osmania PO, Hyderabad—500 007, AP, India), Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture, 2012, 92 (9), 1988–1993]

NPARR 3(4), 2012-0395 Chemical composition and profile characterisation of pumpkin (Cucurbita maxima) seed oil

Seeds of a Tunisian variety (Béjaoui) of pumpkin (Cucurbita maxima) were analysed for their main chemical composition and for their oil properties. Expressed on dry weight basis, seed moisture was 8.46%, whereas contents of proteins, fibre, ash, fat, and total sugars established at 33.92, 3.97, 21.97, 31.57, and 0.11%, respectively. Gas chromatography revealed that the major fatty acids were oleic, linoleic, and palmitic acids (44.11%, 34.77%, and 15.97% respectively). Seed oil was also found to be rich in tocopherols with a predominance of δ-tocopherol (42.27%). The sterol marker β-sisosterol accounted for 39.6% of total sterols contained in seed oil of this variety. Six phenolic acids (protocatechuic, caffeic, syringic, vanillic, p-coumaric and ferulic) were detected, the syringic acid being predominant (7.96 mg/100g). As a whole, based on its seed oil features, pumpkin may be considered as a valuable source for new multi-purpose products for industrial, cosmetic, and pharmaceutical utilization [Leila Rezig, , Moncef Chouaibi, Kamel Msaada and Salem Hamdi(Food Conservation and Valorization Laboratory, High Institute of Food Industries, 58 Avenue Alain Savary, El Khadra City, Tunis, 1003, Tunisia), Industrial Crops and Products, 2012, 37,(1), 82-87].

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PHYTOCHEMICALS NPARR 3(4), 2012-0396 Potential of apple pomace as a solid substrate for fungal cellulase and hemicellulase bioproduction through solid-state fermentation

The effect of different inducers on the cellulase and hemicellulase bioproduction by Aspergillus niger NRRL-567 using apple pomace as a substrate was investigated. Rapid production of different cellulase enzymes namely, FPase (filter paper cellulase), CMCase (carboxymethyl cellulase), BGL (β-glucosidase), and xylanase were observed with peak activity reaching between 48 and 72 h of fermentation period. The higher FPase and BGL activities of 133.68±5.44IU/gram dry substrate (gds) and 60.09±3.43IU/gds, respectively were observed while using CuSO4 and veratryl alcohol after 48h of incubation time. The higher CMCase activity of 172.31±14.21IU/gds was obtained with lactose after 48h of incubation period. Similarly, higher xylanase activity of 1412.58±27.9IU/gds was observed with veratryl alcohol after 72h of fermentation time. This study sheds light on the rapid bioproduction of fungal cellulase and hemicellulase using low cost waste, apple pomace as substrate when supplemented with different inducers [Gurpreet Singh Dhillon, Surinder Kaur, Satinder Kaur Brar*, and Mausam Verma(INRS-ETE, Université du Québec, 490, Rue de la Couronne, Québec G1K 9A9, Canada), Industrial Crops and Products, 2012, 38, 6-13].

NPARR 3(4), 2012-0397 Phenolic acid and flavonol water extracts of Delonix regia red flowers

Traditional healthy beverages in several African counties were home-made by water extraction of flowers of Delonix regia (Boj.) Raf. This tree belongs to the local biodiversity of plants used in the local medicine. It is also part of the traditional bioproducts marketed within African village communities. Scaling-up at pilot

plant level, by mimicking this local recipe, lead to concentrated bioproducts containing various natural phenolic compounds, most of them have never been yet published. A three-steps process was used to prepare concentrated of water-extracted soluble phenolics. This process included: phenol extraction of dried plant by overnight diffusion in acidified water, clarification then concentration of the macerate, using membrane technology. Total phenol contents were determined as gallic acid equivalents using the Folin–Ciocalteu method. Total flavonoid contents, as delphinidin equivalents, were determined using the UV–vis colorimetric method. Comparison of concentration factors of both phenol families (phenolic acids and flavonols) contained in the 3 co-products obtained during the process were made between crude extracts, cross-flow microfiltration extracts and reverse osmosis concentrated extracts. Individual phenol compounds found in the products obtained were characterized and quantified by HPLC-DAD and by HPLC–MS2. Among the 11 phenol compounds identified in the water-extracts, 3 have been already identified in the literature (2 phenolic acids and 1 flavonol), and 8 new compounds, in noticeable amounts, have never been cited. We have confirmed the presence of phenolic acids such as 3, 4,5-trihydroxybenzoic (gallic acid), 3,4-dihydroxybenzoic (protocatechuic acid) and of quercetin. We have characterized for the first time the presence of 2-hydroxy 5-[(3, 4, 5 trihydroxyphenyl) carbonyl oxy] benzoic acid and of 7 other flavonols belonging to the quercetin, kaempferol and isorhamnetol compound families. Using both LCMS and NMR analyses, they have been identified and quantified as: rutin, quercetin 3-O-glucoside, quercetin 3-O-galactoside, quercetin trihexoside, quercetin 3-O-robinobioside, kaempferol rhamnosylhexoside and isorhamnetol rhamnosyl-hexoside. [Félix A. Adjé, Yves F. Lozano*, Christine Le Gernevé, Paul R. Lozano, Emmanuelle Meudec, Augustin A. Adima, and

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Emile M. Gaydou (CIRAD, UMR GPEB Génie des Procédés – Eau, Bioproduits, TA 40/16, 73 Avenue J.F. Breton, 34398 Montpellier Cedex 5, France), Industrial Crops and Products, 2012, 37(1), 303-310].

NPARR 3(4), 2012-0398 Isolation and identification of spermidine derivatives in tea (Camellia sinensis) flowers and their distribution in floral organs

Recently, tea (Camellia sinensis) flowers have attracted increasing interest because of their content of bioactive compounds such as catechins. The aim of this study was to investigate the occurrence of some characteristic compounds in tea flowers.A principal component analysis of metabolites using ultra-performance liquid chromatography/time-of-flight mass spectrometry showed differences in metabolite profile between flowers and leaves of C. sinensis var. Yabukita. Four spermidine derivatives were isolated from tea flowers. One of them was determined as N1,N5,N10-tricoumaroyl spermidine based on NMR, MS and UV data. The other three were identified as feruoyl dicoumaroyl spermidine, coumaroyl diferuoyl spermidine and triferuoyl spermidine based on MSn data. Tricoumaroyl spermidine as the major spermidine conjugate was not detected in tea leaves. Furthermore, it decreased during floral development and mainly occurred in anthers.This study has provided the first evidence that spermidine-phenolic acid conjugates occur in tea flowers in considerable amounts. Their presence should prompt a reconsideration of the ecological role of tea flowers. From an economic point of view, tea flowers might be suitable as a raw material in the healthcare food and pharmaceutical industries [Ziyin Yang, Fang

Dong, Susanne Baldermann, Ariaki Murata,

Youying Tu, Tatsuo Asai and Naoharu Watanabe (Graduate School of Science and Technology, Shizuoka University, 836 Ohya, Suruga-ku, Shizuoka 422-8529, Japan), Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture, 2012, 92(10), 2128-2132].

NPARR 3(4), 2012-0399 Large scale extraction of the fruits of Garcinia indica for the isolation of new and known polyisoprenylated

Large scale extraction of the fruits of Garcinia indica was conducted with water extracted hydroxyl citric acid. The marc left after water extraction was extracted exhaustively with methanol and concentrated methanol. The concentrated methanol extract was adsorbed with celite and dried. The dried celite containing the methanol extract was successively extracted with hexane, chloroform and ethyl acetate to get hexane, chloroform and ethyl acetate extract respectively. Column chromatographic separation of hexane extract afforded two new molecules, one polyisoprenylated benzophenone and a new acylphloroglucinol derivative and two known molecule garcinol and isogarcinol. Likewise, chromatographic separation of the chloroform and ethyl acetate extract also yielded extra quantity of garcinol and isogarcinol, respectively. Garcinol was isolated as a major compound among all the four molecules isolated from the fruits G. indica [ Ranjeet Kaur, Sunil K. Chattopadhyay*Sudeep Tandon and Shelly Sharma (Central Institute of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants (Council of Scientific and Industrial Research), Lucknow 226015, U.P., India), Industrial Crops and Products, 2012, 37(1), 420-426].

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PULP/PAPER NPARR 3(4), 2012-0400 Effect of pre-extraction on soda-anthraquinone (AQ) pulping of rice straw

Developmental stages of the potato tuber moth, Phthorimaea operculella (Zeller), were subjected to low temperatures to determine the effect of short- and long-term exposure on egg hatch, larval mortality, and adult longevity. The hatching of eggs, for all ages, did not exceed 12 and 38% after 35 d of exposure to 3 and 7 C, respectively. Survival of 1- and 8-d-old larvae was negatively affected by cold storage. One-d-

old larvae did not survive 42d of cold storage at 3 C. No adult emergence occurred after 56d of exposure to 7°C for 8-d-old larvae. In adult longevity experiments, 5.5 and 8.3% of moths were still alive after 28 and 35d of storage at 3 and 7°C, respectively. The low temperatures applied during postharvest storage of potatoes could be efficiently used as a protective disinfestation technique against the potato tuber moth [M. Sarwar Jahan*, M. Shamsuzzaman, M. Mostafizur Rahman, S.M. Iqbal Moeiz and Y. Ni* (Pulp and Paper Research Division, BCSIR Laboratories, Dhaka, Dr. Qudrat-i-Khuda Road, Dhaka 1205, Bangladesh), Industrial Crops and Products, 2012, 37(1), 164-169].

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SPICES/CONDIMENTS NPARR 3(4), 2012-0401 Anti-obesity effect of a standardised ethanol extract from Curcuma longa L. fermented with Aspergillus oryzae in ob/ob mice and primary mouse adipocytes

We examined the anti-obesity effect of fermented Curcuma longa L. (turmeric) standardised ethanol extract (FTE) in the C57BL/6J ob/ob mouse model. Mice were fed a chow diet containing FTE (0, 200, or 500 mg kg−1 body weight) for 9 weeks.Supplementation with FTE significantly reduced body weight gain and retroperitoneal and epididymal adipose tissue weights compared to the ob/ob control group. Additionally, total cholesterol and triglyceride levels in serum and liver were significantly decreased in FTE-200 and FTE-500 groups when compared to those of the ob/ob control group, whereas the high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol level was significantly increased. The levels of serum adiponectin as well as mRNA expression of lipases, such as hormone sensitive lipase and adipose triglyceride lipase, were clearly increased. In primary adipocytes of C57BL/6J mice, FTE treatment caused a significant increase glycerol release and hormone sensitive lipase levels and decreased perilipin A levels.These results suggest that supplementation of FTE has potent anti-obesity effects by controlling body weight, fat mass, serum lipids, and hepatic lipids. Moreover, FTE could be considered a potential resource for the treatment of obesity through its promotion of lipolysis via the protein kinase A pathway [Jin-Nyoung Ho, Ja Young Jang, Ho-Geun Yoon, Yongjae Kim, Sunoh Kim, Woojin Jun, and Jeongmin Lee (Department of Medical Nutrition, Kyung Hee University, Yongin 446-701, Korea), Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture, 2012, 92(9), 1833-1840].

NPARR 3(4), 2012-0402 Zingiber officinale extract exhibits antidiabetic potential via modulating glucose uptake, protein glycation and inhibiting adipocyte differentiation: an in vitro study

Ginger, the rhizome of Zingiber officinale Roscoe (Zingiberaceae), a perennial herbaceous plant is native to Southern Asia. Study was aimed to evaluate antioxidant and antidiabetic potential of ginger extract and its characterization. Possible mode of action to elicit antidiabetic activity was also evaluated.Ethyl acetate extract of ginger (EAG) was evaluated for its antioxidant activity in terms of DPPH radical scavenging potential with an IC50 value of 4.59 µg/ml. Antidiabetic activity of EAG was evaluated by estimating antiglycation potential (IC50 290.84 µg/ml). HPLC profiling of EAG revealed the presence of phenolic components, gingerol and shoagol as major constituents. After determining sub-toxic concentration of EAG (50 µg/ml), efficacy of extract to enhance glucose uptake in cell lines were checked in L6 mouse myoblast and myotubes. EAG was effective at 5 µg/ml concentration in both cases. Antibody based studies in treated cells revealed the effect of EAG in expressing Glut 4 in cell surface membrane compared to control.The antidiabetic effect of ginger was experimentally proved in the study and has concluded that the activity is initiated by antioxidant, antiglycation and potential to express or transport Glut4 receptors from internal vesicles [M Priya Rani, Mahesh S Krishna, Keezheveettil P Padmakumari*, K Gopal Raghu and Andikannu Sundaresan (Agro processing & Natural Products Division, National Institute for Interdisciplinary Science and Technology (NIIST), CSIR, Trivandrum, Kerala, India ), Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture, 2012, 92(9), 1948–1955].

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THERAPEUTICS NPARR 3(4), 2012-0403 Antiulcerogenic activity of hydroalcoholic fruit extract of Pithecellobium dulce in different experimental ulcer models in rats

The ethnopharmacological importance of Pithecellobium dulce is evidenced by its traditional use for gastric complications. The aim of the study is to evaluate the gastroprotective activity and the mechanism of action of hydroalcoholic fruit extract of P. dulce (HAEPD) in rats by using chemical and stress induced ulcer models.Gastric ulcer was induced by administering alcohol (or) acetylsalicylic acid (or) hypothermic restraint stress to rats pretreated with HAEPD (200 mg/kg b wt for 30 day). Volume of gastric fluid, pH, acidity, activities of pepsin, H+, K+-ATPase, myeloperoxidase, mucin content, nucleic acids, glycoproteins and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) levels were assessed in gastric tissues.Ulcer score was significantly minimized in HAEPD administered animals. pH and acidity of gastric fluid were significantly minimized and the mucin, PGE2 levels were significantly maintained in drug pre administered animals. The activities of H+, K+- ATPase and myeloperoxidase were found to be significantly elevated in ulcer control animals and found to be decreased in drug pretreated animals. The cell proliferation was found to be enhanced in drug received animals. The total protein bound carbohydrate to total protein ratio was found to be significantly maintained by HAEPD. The effects were found to be comparable with that of standard drug omeprazole.It is concluded that HAEPD possess a potent antiulcer activity probably by acting as cytoprotective and antiacid secretory agent. [Jayaraman Megala and Arumugam Geetha (Bharathi Women's College (Autonomous), North Chennai 600108, India), Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 2012, 142(2), 415-421].

NPARR 3(4), 2012-0404 Anti-tumor activity of Annona squamosa seeds extract containing annonaceous acetogenin compounds

Seeds of Annona squamosa L. have been used in the south of China as a folk remedy to treat “malignant sores” (cancer).To investigate the chemical constituents and the anti-tumor activity of the standardized A. squamosa seeds extract in vitro and in vivo.Annonaceous acetogenin profiles of the standardized extract were determined by using Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) and high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) techniques. The anti-tumor activity of the extract was tested by 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide (MTT) cytotoxicity in vitro and H22 hepatoma cells transplantation tumor model in vivo.The FT-IR spectroscopy showed the presence of annonaceous acetogenin compounds in the extract. Two major annonaceous acetogenins: 12, 15-cis-squamostatin-A and bullatacin were identified and quantified by HPLC. The seed extract showed significant anti-tumor activity against four human tumor cell lines, especially for MCF-7 (IC50. 0.25 μg/ml) and Hep G2 (IC50. 0.36 μg/ml) cells in vitro. The extract inhibited the growth of H22 tumor cells in mice with a maximum inhibitory rate of 69.55% by oral administration. A. squamosa seed extract showed significant anti-tumor activities against human hepatoma cells in vitro and in vivo, indicating a potential for developing the extract as a novel anti-liver cancer drug [Yong Chen, Sha-sha Xu, Jian-wei Chen, Yu Wang, Hui-qing Xu, Nai-bing Fan and Xiang Li*(College of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China), Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 2012, 142(2), 462-466].

NPARR 3(4), 2012-0405 Achyranthes aspera (Apamarg) leaf extract inhibits human pancreatic tumor growth in athymic mice by apoptosis

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Achyranthes aspera (Family Amaranthaceae) is used for cancer therapy by ayurvedic medical practitioners in India. However, due to the non formal nature of its use, there are no systematic studies validating its medicinal properties. Thus, it's utility as an anti cancer agent remains anecdotal. Earlier, we demonstrated A. aspera to exhibit time and dose-dependent preferential cytotoxicity to cultured human pancreatic cancer cells. In this report we validate in vivo anti tumor properties of A. aspera.The in vivo anti tumor activity of leaf extract (LE) was tested by intraperitoneal (IP) injections into athymic mice harboring human pancreatic tumor subcutaneous xenograft. Toxicity was monitored by recording changes in behavioral, histological, hematological and body weight parameters.Dosing LE to athymic mice by I.P. injection for 32 days showed no adverse reactions in treated mice. Compared to the control set, IP administration of LE to tumor bearing mice significantly reduced both tumor weight and volume. Gene expression analysis using Real time PCR methods revealed that LE significantly induced caspase-3 mRNA (p<0.001) and suppressed expression of the pro survival kinase Akt-1 (p<0.05). TUNEL assay and immunohistochemistry confirmed apoptosis induction by activation of caspase-3 and inhibiting Akt phosphorylation in treated sets. These results are in agreement with RT PCR data.Taken together, these data suggest A. aspera to have potent anti cancer property [Pochi R. Subbarayan, Malancha Sarkar, Shamaladevi Nagaraja Rao, Sakhi Philip, Pradeep Kumar, Norman Altman, Isildinha Reis, Mansoor Ahmed, Bach Ardalan and Bal L. Lokeshwar (Department of Medicine, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami FL-33136, USA), Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 2012, 142 (2), 523-530].

NPARR 3(4), 2012-0406 Evaluation of the wound healing activity of methanol extract of Pedilanthus tithymaloides (L.) Poit leaf and its

isolated active constituents in topical formulation

Pedilanthus tithymaloides leaves are widely used in Indian medicine to heal wounds, burn, mouth ulcers. However, systematic evaluation of these activities is lacking. Thus, the present study aimed to assesses the wound healing activity of Pedilanthus leaves and its isolated constituents in topical ointment formulation. Bioassay-guided chromatographic fractionation of the methanol extract of leaves resulted in the isolation of 2-(3, 4-dihydroxy-phenyl)-5,7-dihydroxy-chromen-4-one and 1, 2-tetradecanediol, 1-(hydrogen sulfate), sodium salt. The ointment formulation of methanol extract (2.5%, 5% w/w) and isolated compounds (0.25% w/w) was prepared and evaluated on excision, incision and dead space wound models in rats. The effects of formulations on wound healing were assessed by the rate of wound closure, period of epithelialization, tensile strength, granulation tissue weight, hydroxyproline content and histopathology. Significant wound healing activity was observed with methanol extract and isolated constituents. Topical application of isolated compound ointments caused faster epithelialization, significant wound contraction (95.41%), and better tensile strength (565.33 g) on 16 post-wounding day, while 5% extract showed wound epithelialization with 95.55% contraction on 18th post-wounding day, better than the control group (76.39% on 22 day). The tensile strength of incision wound was significantly increased in extract and compound treated animals. Moreover, in dead space model the extract significantly increased granuloma tissue weight, tensile strength and hydroxyproline content. The tissue histology of ointment treated groups showed complete epithelialization with increased collagenation, compared to the povidone-iodine group.The results validated the traditional use of Pedilanthus tithymaloides for cutaneous wound management [Soma Ghosh, Amalesh Samanta, Nirup Bikash Mandal, Sukdeb Bannerjee and

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Deb Prasad Chattopadhyay (ICMR Virus Unit, I.D. and B.G. Hospital, General Block 4, First Floor, 57 Dr Suresh C Banerjee Road, Beliaghata, Kolkata 700 010, India), Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 2012, 142(3), 714-722].

NPARR 3(4), 2012-0407 Antinociceptive activity of methanol extract of flowers of Impatiens balsamina

Impatiens balsamina Linn. (Balsaminaceae), an annual herb locally called “Dopati”, is cultivated as an ornamental garden plant in Bangladesh. Flowers of the plant are used in folk medicine to treat lumbago, neuralgia, burns and scalds. This study evaluated the antinociceptive effect of the methanol extract of I. balsamina flowers (MIB). The extract was evaluated for antinociceptive activity using chemical- and heat-induced pain models such as acetic acid-induced writhing, hot plate, tail immersion and formalin test. To verify the possible involvement of opioid receptor in the central antinociceptive effect of MIB, naloxone was used to antagonize the effect. The effect of MIB on central nervous system (CNS) was also studied using hole cross and open field tests.MIB demonstrated strong and dose-dependent antinociceptive activity in all the chemical- and heat-induced mice models (p<0.05). These findings imply the involvement of both peripheral and central antinociceptive mechanisms. The use of naloxone confirmed the association of opioid receptors in the central antinociceptive effect. MIB also showed significant central nervous system depressant effect (p<0.05).This study reported the peripheral and central antinociceptive activity of the flowers of I. balsamina and rationalized the traditional use of the flower in the treatment of different painful conditions [Mohammad Zafar Imam*, Nazmun Nahar, Saleha Akter and Md. Sohel Rana (Department of Pharmacy, Stamford University Bangladesh, 51, Siddeswari Road, Dhaka-1217, Bangladesh), Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 2012, 142(3), 804-810].

NPARR 3(4), 2012-0408 Evaluation of antitumor activity and in vivo antioxidant status of Anthocephalus cadamba on Ehrlich ascites carcinoma treated mice

Anthocephalus cadamba (Roxb.) Miq. (Family: Rubiaceae) is commonly known as “Kadamba” in Sanskrit and Hindi in India. Various parts of this plant have been used as a folk medicine for the treatment of tumor, wound healing, inflammation and as a hypoglycemic agent. The purpose of this investigation was to evaluate the antitumor activity and antioxidant status of defatted methanol extract of A. cadamba (MEAC) on Ehrlich ascites carcinoma (EAC) treated mice. In vitro cytotoxicity assay has been evaluated by using the trypan blue method. The determination of in vivo antitumor activity was performed by using different EAC cells (2×106 cells, i.p.) inoculated mice groups (n=12). The groups were treated for 9 consecutive days with MEAC at the doses of 200 and 400 mg/kg b.w. respectively. After 24 h of last dose and 18 h of fasting, half of the mice were sacrificed and the rest were kept alive for assessment of increase in life span. The antitumor potential of MEAC was assessed by evaluating tumor volume, viable and nonviable tumor cell count, tumor weight, hematological parameters and biochemical estimations. Furthermore, antioxidant parameters were assayed by estimating liver and kidney tissue enzymes.MEAC showed direct cytotoxicity on EAC cell line in a dose dependant manner. MEAC exhibited significant (P<0.01) decrease in the tumor volume, viable cell count, tumor weight and elevated the life span of EAC tumor bearing mice. The hematological profile, biochemical estimations and tissue antioxidant assay were reverted to normal level in MEAC treated mice.Experimental results revealed that MEAC possesses potent antitumor and antioxidant properties. Further research is going on to find out the active principle(s) of MEAC for better understanding of mechanism of its antitumor and antioxidant activity [Narayan Dolai, Indrajit Karmakar, R.B. Suresh Kumar,

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Biswakanth Kar, Asis Bala and Pallab Kanti Haldar*(Himalayan Pharmacy Institute, Majhitar, East Sikkim 737136, Sikkim, India), Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 2012, 142 (3), 865-870].

NPARR 3(4), 2012-0409 Pharmacological properties and protein binding capacity of phenolic extracts of some Venda medicinal plants used against cough and fever

Several ailments are caused by infectious bacteria and in other diseases; they act as co-infection which complicate human life by causing health hazards. In Venda (South Africa), many plants are used in traditional medicine to treat cough and fever.This study was aimed at evaluating the antibacterial and antifungal properties, cyclooxygenases (COX), acetylcholinesterase (AChE) enzyme inhibitory effects and the phenolic composition as well as mutagenic properties of six medicinal plants used by the Venda people of Limpopo Province of South Africa against cough and fever.The petroleum ether (PE), dichloromethane (DCM), 80% ethanol (EtOH) and water extracts of six plants were tested against four infectious bacteria (Bacillus subtilis, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae and Staphylococcus aureus) and a fungus Candida albicans. The same extracts were evaluated for their ability to inhibit COX-1 and -2 enzymes. Methanolic and water extracts of the same plant were tested for acetylcholinesterase inhibitory effects. Total phenolics, flavonoids, gallotannins and condensed tannins were determined. The ability of the extracts to bind and precipitate proteins was also investigated. The extracts were investigated for genotoxicity with and without S9 (metabolic activation) against three Salmonella typhimurium tester strains TA98, TA100 and TA102.The organic extracts of Rhus lancea leaves exhibited the best antibacterial activity with minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values ranging from 0.0061 to 0.049mg/ml. The best antifungal activity was observed from a DCM extract of Syzygium cordatum leaves with a MIC value of

0.195mg/ml. The methanolic and water extracts of the same plant exhibited high inhibitory effects towards AChE with IC50 values of 0.22 and 0.26mg/ml, respectively. The highest levels of flavonoids and gallotannins were detected in Spirostachys africana bark; 11.57 and 48.88μg/g, respectively. The highest percentages (1.2%) of condensed tannins were detected in Uvaria caffra leaves. The high levels of phenolic compounds may have been responsible for high antimicrobial activities for extracts of S. africana bark and U. caffra leaves. S. cordatum leaves represented the highest affinity for protein binding with 93%. All the extracts were non-mutagenic towards the three tested strains with and without S9 metabolic activation.The result obtained in this study goes a long way in validating the ethnobotanical usage of these medicinal plants in the treatment of cough and fever by the Venda people. However, more evidence obtainable from other assays not performed here are urgently required to confirm these results [R.B. Mulaudzi, A.R. Ndhlala, M.G. Kulkarni and J. Van Staden* (Research Centre for Plant Growth and Development, School of Life Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal Pietermaritzburg, Private Bag X01, Scottsville 3209, South Africa) Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 2012, 143(1),185-193].

NPARR 3(4), 2012-0410 Hepatoprotective potential of Tecomella undulata stem bark is partially due to the presence of betulinic acid

Tecomella undulata (TU; Family Bignoniaceae) is used in Indian Ayurvedic system of medicine for treating various diseases including hepatic ailments. It is also incorporated in various marketed hepatoprotective polyherbal formulations. The present study was aimed at evaluating possible hepatoprotective role of isolated compounds from TU stem bark (TSB) using in vitro and in vivo experimental models.In vitro cytotoxicity and hepatoprotective potential of various extract, fractions and isolated compounds from TU stem bark were evaluated using HepG2 cells. Rats were pre-treated with TU methanolic extract (TSB-7) or betulinic acid

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(MS-2) or silymarin for 7 days followed by a single dose of CCl4 (0.5 ml/kg, i.p.). Plasma markers of hepatic damage, hepatic antioxidants and indices of lipid peroxidation along with microscopic evaluation of liver were assessed in control and treatment groups. TSB-2 and MS-1 accounted for significant cell death whereas; TSB-1, TBS-7, TSB-9, TSB-10 and, MS-2 did not register significant cytotoxicity. Further, non-cytotoxic components exhibited ascending grade of hepatoprotection in vitro (TSB-10<TSB-1<TSB-7<TSB-9<MS-2). Pre-treatment of TSB-7 or MS-2 to CCl4 treated rats prevented hepatocyte damage as evidenced by biochemical and histopathological observations.It can be concluded that, hepatoprotective potential of Tecomella undulata stem bark is partially due to the presence of betulinic acid [Mahendra Jain*, Rakhee Kapadia, Ravirajsinh N. JadejaMenaka C. Thounaojam, Ranjitsinh V. Devkar and S.H. Mishra (Herbal Drug Technology Laboratory, Pharmacy Department, Faculty of Technology and Engineering, The M.S. University of Baroda, Kalabhavan, Vadodara 390001, Gujarat, India), Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 2012, 143(1), 194-200].

NPARR 3(4), 2012-0411 Evaluation of mechanism for antihypertensive action of Clerodendrum colebrookianum Walp., used by folklore healers in north-east India

The present investigation was aimed to justify the pharmacological basis in traditional use of Clerodendrum colebrookianum as antihypertensive agent in north-east India.The aqueous extract (AECc), its aqueous, n-butanol (nBFCc), Ethyl-acetate (EtFCc) and Chloroform fractions of C. colebrookianum leaves were evaluated for antihypertensive potential by using fructose-induced hypertension model in rats and in isolated frog heart. The ex-vivo muscarinic action in isolated rat ileum, in-vitro assay for Rho-kinase (ROCK –II), phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE-5) and angiotension converting enzyme (ACE) were also carried out to establish the

mechanism of action of samples. The total phenolic and flavonoied contents in test samples were estimated to establish phyto–pharmacological relationship. The 100 μg/mL test samples were showed calcium antagonism in rat ileum and at 50 μg/mL and 75 μg/mL doses exhibited ROCK-II and PDE-5 inhibition respectively where, EtFCc was caused maximum 68.62% (ROCK-II) and 52.28% (PDE-5) inhibition, but none of the sample was exhibit effect in ACE at 100 μg/mL. The test samples also showed negative inotropic and chronotropic effect on isolated frog heart and significant (P<0.001) reduction in systolic blood pressure and heart rate in hypertensive rats compared to control. The total phenolic content maximum 80 μg gallic acid equivalents in nBFCc and flavonoids content maximum 69.57 μg Quercetin equivalent in AECc were estimated.These observations established the traditional claim and thus C. colebrookianum could be a potent antihypertensive agent for use in future. The antihypertensive effect mediated by cholinergic action and following ROCK–II, PDE-5 inhibition of C. colebrookianum. [The present investigation was aimed to justify the pharmacological basis in traditional use of Clerodendrum colebrookianum as antihypertensive agent in north-east India.The aqueous extract (AECc), its aqueous, n-butanol (nBFCc), Ethyl-acetate (EtFCc) and Chloroform fractions of C. colebrookianum leaves were evaluated for antihypertensive potential by using fructose-induced hypertension model in rats and in isolated frog heart. The ex-vivo muscarinic action in isolated rat ileum, in-vitro assay for Rho-kinase (ROCK–II), phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE-5) and angiotension converting enzyme (ACE) were also carried out to establish the mechanism of action of samples. The total phenolic and flavonoied contents in test samples were estimated to establish phyto–pharmacological relationship.The 100 μg/mL test samples were showed calcium antagonism in rat ileum and at 50 μg/mL and 75 μg/mL doses exhibited ROCK-II and PDE-5 inhibition

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respectively where, EtFCc was caused maximum 68.62% (ROCK-II) and 52.28% (PDE-5) inhibition, but none of the sample was exhibit effect in ACE at 100 μg/mL. The test samples also showed negative inotropic and chronotropic effect on isolated frog heart and significant (P<0.001) reduction in systolic blood pressure and heart rate in hypertensive rats compared to control. The total phenolic content maximum 80 μg gallic acid equivalents in nBFCc and flavonoids content maximum 69.57 μg Quercetin equivalent in AECc were estimated.These observations established the traditional claim and thus C. colebrookianum could be a potent antihypertensive agent for use in future. The antihypertensive effect mediated by cholinergic action and following ROCK – II, PDE-5 inhibition of C. colebrookianum [Deb Lokesh and Dutta Amitsankar (Pharmacology Laboratory, Medicinal Plants and Horticultural Resources Division, Institute of Bioresources and Sustainable Development (IBSD), Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 2012, 143(1), 207-212].

NPARR 3(4), 2012-0412 Antimalarial alkaloids from a Bhutanese traditional medicinal plant Corydalis dubia

Corydalis dubia is used in Bhutanese traditional medicine as a febrifuge and for treating infections in the blood, liver and bile which correlate to the signs and symptoms of malarial and microbial infections.To validate the ethnopharmacological uses of the plant and to discover potential new therapeutic drug leads.C. dubia was collected from Bhutan and the alkaloids were obtained using acid–base fractionation and separation by repeated column and preparative plate chromatography. The alkaloids were identified from analysis of their physiochemical and spectroscopic data and were tested for antiplasmodial, antimicrobial and cytotoxicity activities.A systematic extraction and isolation protocol yielded one new natural product, dubiamine, and seven known isoquinoline alkaloids, scoulerine,

cheilanthifoline, protopine, capnoidine, bicuculline, corydecumbine and hydrastine. Among the four alkaloids tested, scoulerine showed the best antiplasmodial activity with IC50 values of 5.4 μM and 3.1 μM against the antifolate sensitive and the multidrug resistant P. falciparum strains: TM4/8.2 and K1CB1, respectively. None of the alkaloids tested showed significant antimicrobial or cytotoxicity activities.The antiplasmodial test results, of the isolated alkaloid components, are commensurated with the ethnopharmacological uses of this plant [Phurpa Wangchuk, Paul A. Keller, Stephen G. Pyne* Anthony C. Willis and Sumalee Kamchonwongpaisan (School of Chemistry, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW 2522, Australia), Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 2012, 143(1), 310-313].

NPARR 3(4), 2012-0413 Uterine contractility of plants used to facilitate childbirth in Nigerian ethnomedicine

Pregnant women in Nigeria use plant preparations to facilitate childbirth and to reduce associated pain. The rationale for this is not known and requires pharmacological validation. Obtain primary information regarding the traditional use of plants and analyze their uterine contractility at cellular level.Semi-structured, open interviews using questionnaires of traditional healthcare professionals and other informants triggered the collection and identification of medicinal plant species. The relative traditional importance of each medicinal plant was determined by its use-mention index. Extracts of these plants were analyzed for their uterotonic properties on an in vitro human uterine cell collagen model. The plants Calotropis procera, Commelina africana, Duranta repens, Hyptis suaveolens, Ocimum gratissimum, Saba comorensis, Sclerocarya birrea, Sida corymbosa and Vernonia amygdalina were documented and characterized. Aqueous extracts from these nine plants induced significant sustained increases in human myometrial smooth muscle cell

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contractility, with varying efficiencies, depending upon time and dose of exposure.The folkloric use of several plant species during childbirth in Nigeria has been validated. Seven plants were for the first time characterized to have contractile properties on uterine myometrial cells. The results serve as ideal starting points in the search for safe, longer lasting, effective and tolerable uterotonic drug leads. Pregnant woman in Nigeria rely on traditional herbal medicine to induce or ease labor, and to treat childbirth-related complications. Nine plant species have been documented and characterized for their uterotonic properties [Alfred F. Attah, Margaret O'Brien, Johannes Koehbach, Mubo A. Sonibare, Jones O. Moody, Terry J. Smith and Christian W. Gruber*(Medical University of Vienna, Center for Physiology and Pharmacology, Schwarzspanierstr. 17, A-1090 Vienna, Austria), Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 2012, 143 (1), 377-382].

NPARR 3(4), 2012-0414 Olive leaf extract as a hypoglycemic agent in both human diabetic subjects and in rats

Olive tree (Olea europaea L.) leaves have been widely used in traditional remedies in European and Mediterranean countries as extracts, herbal teas, and powder. They contain several potentially bioactive compounds that may have hypoglycemic properties. To examine the efficacy of 500�mg oral olive leaf extract taken once daily in tablet form versus matching placebo in improving glucose homeostasis in adults with type 2 diabetes (T2DM). In this controlled clinical trial, 79 adults with T2DM were randomized to treatment with 500�mg olive leaf extract tablet taken orally once daily or matching placebo. The study duration was 14 weeks. Measures of glucose homeostasis including Hba1c and plasma insulin were measured and compared by treatment assignment. In a series of animal models, normal, streptozotocin (STZ) diabetic and sand rats were used in the inverted sac model to determine the mechanism through

which olive leaf extract affected starch digestion and absorption. In the randomized clinical trial, the subjects treated with olive leaf extract exhibited significantly lower HbA1c and fasting plasma insulin levels; however, postprandial plasma insulin levels did not differ significantly by treatment group. In the animal models, normal and STZ diabetic rats exhibited significantly reduced starch digestion and absorption after treatment with olive leaf extract compared with intestine without olive leaf treatment. Reduced digestion and absorption was observed in both the mucosal and serosal sides of the intestine. Though reduced, the decline in starch digestion and absorption did not reach statistical significance in the sand rats. Olive leaf extract is associated with improved glucose homeostasis in humans. Animal models indicate that this may be facilitated through the reduction of starch digestion and absorption. Olive leaf extract may represent an effective adjunct therapy that normalizes glucose homeostasis in individuals with diabetes [Julio Wainstein, Tali Ganz, Mona Boaz, Yosefa Bar Dayan, Eran Dolev, Zohar Kerem, and Zecharia Madar.( M.D., Diabetes Unit, E. Wolfson Medical Center, Holon, 58100, Israel), Journal of Medicinal Food, 2012, 15(7), 605-610].

NPARR 3(4), 2012-0415 Rosmarinic acid content in antidiabetic aqueous extract of Ocimum canum Sims grown in ghana

Rosmarinic acid (RA) is an important antioxidant polyphenol that is found in a variety of spices and herbs, including Ocimum canum Sims (locally called eme or akokobesa in Ghana). Aqueous extracts from the leaves of O. canum are used as an antidiabetic herbal medicine in Ghana. Analytical thin-layer chromatography was used to examine the composition of the polyphenols in leaf extracts. The polyphenol content in the aqueous and methanol extracts from the leaf, as determined by the Folin–Ciocalteu method, were 314 and 315�mg gallic acid equivalent/g leaf sample, respectively. The total flavonoid concentration as determined by

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the aluminum (III) chloride method was 135�mg catechin equivalent/g leaf sample. High-performance liquid chromatography coupled to an electrospray Quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometer was also used to determine the polyphenol fingerprint profile in the leaf extracts of O. canum. Although the average RA concentration in the O. canum leaf extracts from Ghana was 1.69�mg/g dry weight (reported values range from 0.01 to 99.62�mg/g dry weight), this polyphenol was still a prominent peak in addition to caffeic acid derivatives [Mark A. Berhow, Andrews Obeng Affum, and Ben A. Gyan (Chemistry Department, National Nuclear Research Institute, Ghana Atomic Energy Commission, P.O. Box LG 80, Legon-Accra, Ghana), Journal of Medicinal Food, 2012, 15(7), 611-620].

NPARR 3(4), 2012-0416 The aqueous extract of Withania coagulans fruit partially reverses nicotinamide/streptozotocin-induced diabetes mellitus in rats

Withania coagulans fruit has been shown to possess antihyperglycemic properties and is used in the traditional Indian system of medicine. However, there has no systematic study of its mechanism of action. In a rat model diabetes mellitus (DM) was induced by intraperitoneal injection of nicotinamide (230�mg/kg of body weight) followed by streptozotocin at 55�mg/kg of body weight. After 96�h, mildly diabetic (MD) (fasting plasma glucose [FPG]=7–11.1�mmol/L) and severely diabetic (SD) (FPG>11.1�mmol/L) rats were treated with aqueous extract of W. coagulans fruit at doses of 125, 250, and 500�mg/kg of body weight/day orally. FPG, postprandial plasma glucose (PPPG), glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c), plasma insulin, tissue glycogen, and glucose-metabolizing enzymes were assayed at Day 30. Treatment of diabetic animals (MD and SD) with different doses of aqueous W. coagulans resulted in significantly decreased FPG, PPPG, and HbA1c (P<.01), whereas serum insulin increased

significantly compared with that in diabetic-untreated rats (P<.01). MD and SD animals treated with aqueous W. coagulans also showed significant increases in liver and muscle glycogen compared with diabetic-untreated animals (P<.01). Moreover, activities of glucokinase and phosphofructokinase were also significantly increased (P<.01), whereas glucose-6-phosphatase activity was significantly decreased (P<.01) in MD and SD groups treated with aqueous W. coagulans compared with diabetic-untreated groups. The most effective dose of aqueous W. coagulans was 250�mg/kg of body weight. These results show that the aqueous extract of W. coagulans fruit has significant antihyperglycemic effects, which may be through the modulation of insulin levels and related enzyme activities [Kirtikar Shukla, Piyush Dikshit, Rimi Shukla and Jasvinder K. Gambhir. (Department of Biochemistry, University College of Medical Sciences (University of Delhi) and GTB Hospital, Delhi-110095, India), Journal of Medicinal Food, 2012, 15(8), 718-725].

NPARR 3(4), 2012-0417 Evaluation of the anti diabetic activity of column fractions obtained from the bark extract of Soymida febrifuga A. Juss.

Diabetes has become a worldwide problem afflicting humans irrespective of age. Even though a number of synthetic drugs are available for the treatment of diabetes, plant drugs are generally preferred due to the assumption that they have less side effects and low cost. This study reports the hypoglycaemic and antihyperglycaemic actions of the methanolic bark extract of Soymida febrifuga A. Juss. (Fam: Meliaceae) in euglycaemic and alloxan-induced diabetic rats, respectively. The results revealed that three column fractions obtained from the methanol extract of S. febrifuga possess maximum hypoglycaemic and antihyper-glycaemic activities 6 h after treatment. At a dose of 200 mg/kg, the relatively nonpolar column fraction obtained by using 20% chloroform in

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acetone as an eluent was by far the most potent fraction which showed comparable activity with that of the standard drug glibenclamide (10 mg/kg). At a dose of 200 mg/kg, the same column eluate showed maximum antihyper-glycaemic effect reducing blood glucose level by 33.00%. At a dose of 10 mg/kg, the reference drug glibenclamide brought about 33.46% reduction of blood glucose level. In light of the results obtained from the current study, it could be concluded that the bark of S. febrifuga has genuine antidiabetic activity. Diabetes has become a worldwide problem afflicting humans irrespective of age. Even though a number of synthetic drugs are available for the treatment of diabetes, plant drugs are generally preferred due to the assumption that they have less side effects and low cost. This study reports the hypoglycaemic and antihyperglycaemic actions of the methanolic bark extract of Soymida febrifuga A. Juss. (Fam: Meliaceae) in euglycaemic and alloxan-induced diabetic rats, respectively. The results revealed that three column fractions obtained from the methanol extract of S. febrifuga possess maximum hypoglycaemic and antihyperglycaemic activities 6 h after treatment. At a dose of 200 mg/kg, the relatively nonpolar column fraction obtained by using 20% chloroform in acetone as an eluent was by far the most potent fraction which showed comparable activity with that of the standard drug glibenclamide (10 mg/kg). At a dose of 200 mg/kg, the same column eluate showed maximum antihyperglycaemic effect reducing blood glucose level by 33.00%. At a dose of 10 mg/kg, the reference drug glibenclamide brought about 33.46% reduction of blood glucose level. In light of the results obtained from the current study, it could be concluded that the bark of S. febrifuga has genuine antidiabetic activity [Varicola Karunasree, Ciddi Veeresha*, Krothapalli RS Sambasiva Rao and Kaleab Asres (University College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kakatiya University, Warangal AP 506009,

India), Pharmacognosy Journal, 2012, 4(31) 37-43].

NPARR 3(4), 2012-0418 Consumption of Hibiscus sabdariffa L. aqueous extract and its impact on systemic antioxidant potential in healthy subjects

To evaluate health benefits attributed to Hibiscus sabdariffa L. a randomized, open-label, two-way crossover study was undertaken to compare the impact of an aqueous H. sabdariffa L. extract (HSE) on the systemic antioxidant potential (AOP; assayed by ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP)) with a reference treatment (water) in eight healthy volunteers. The biokinetic variables were the areas under the curve (AUC) of plasma FRAP, ascorbic acid and urate that are above the pre-dose concentration, and the amounts excreted into urine within 24 h (Ae0–24) of antioxidants as assayed by FRAP, ascorbic acid, uric acid, malondialdehyde (biomarker for oxidative stress), and hippuric acid (metabolite and potential biomarker for total polyphenol intake).HSE caused significantly higher plasma AUC of FRAP, an increase in Ae0–

24 of FRAP, ascorbic acid and hippuric acid, whereas malondialdehyde excretion was reduced. Furthermore, the main hibiscus anthocyanins as well as one glucuronide conjugate could be quantified in the volunteers' urine (0.02% of the administered dose). The aqueous HSE investigated in this study enhanced the systemic AOP and reduced the oxidative stress in humans. Furthermore, the increased urinary hippuric acid excretion after HSE consumption indicates a high biotransformation of the ingested HSE polyphenols, most likely caused by the colonic microbiota [Thomas Frank, Gabriele Netzel,

Dietmar R Kammerer, Reinhold Carle, Adolf Kler, Erwin Kriesl, Irmgard Bitsch, Roland Bitsch

and Michael Netzel* (Institute of Nutrition, Friedrich Schiller University Jena, 07743 Jena, Germany), Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture, 2012, 92(10), 2207–2218].

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NPARR 3(4), 2012-0419 Hypocholesterolaemic and antioxidant activities of chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) protein Hydrolysates

Some dietary proteins possess biological properties which make them potential ingredients of functional or health-promoting foods. Many of these properties are attributed to bioactive peptides that can be released by controlled hydrolysis using exogenous proteases. The aim of this work was to test the improvement of hypocholesterolaemic and antioxidant activities of chickpea protein isolate by means of hydrolysis with alcalase and flavourzyme.All hydrolysates tested exhibited better hypocholesterolaemic activity when compared with chickpea protein isolate. The highest cholesterol micellar solubility inhibition (50%) was found after 60 min of treatment with alcalase followed by 30 min of hydrolysis with flavourzyme. To test antioxidant activity of chickpea proteins three methods were used: β-carotene bleaching method, reducing power and 2, 2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical-scavenging effect since antioxidant activity of protein hydrolysates may not be attributed to a single mechanism. Chickpea hydrolysates showed better antioxidant activity in all assays, especially reducing power and DPPH scavenging effect than chickpea protein isolate.The results of this study showed the good potential of chickpea protein hydrolysates as bioactive ingredients. The highest bioactive properties could be obtained by selecting the type of proteases and the hydrolysis time. [María del Mar Yust*, María del Carmen Millán-Linares, Juan María Alcaide-Hidalgo, Francisco Millán and Justo Pedroche (Instituto de la Grasa-CSIC, Av. Padre García Tejero, 4, 41012-Seville, Spain.), Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture, 2012, 92(9), 1994-2001].

NPARR 3(4), 2012-0420 Assessment of In vitro antioxidant, antibacterial and immune activation potentials of aqueous and ethanol extracts of Phyllanthus niruri

Recently much attention has been paid to biologically active plants because of their low production cost and fewer adverse effects compared with chemical drugs. In the present investigation the bioactivity of Phyllanthus niruri ethanol and aqueous extracts was evaluated in vitro. The ethanol extract of P. niruri showed a high level of flavonoid content (123.9 ± 0.002 mg g−1), while the aqueous extract showed the highest 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH; IC506.85 ± 1.80 µmol L−1) and 2,2′-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS; 46.44 ± 0.53 µmol L−1) free radical scavenging activities with high phenol content (376 ± 0.02 mg g−1) and elevated levels of ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP; 23 883 ± 0.019 mmol g−1) with excellent antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus (20 mm inhibition zone) and Streptococcus agalactiae (12 mm inhibition zone), respectively, in addition to the best immune activation potential of human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (450.5%). It is clear from our results that both extracts of P. niruri has excellent bioactivity roles via elevated levels of antibacterial, antioxidant and percentage of peripheral blood mononuclear cell proliferation, which could lead to the development of medications for clinical use [Zahra A Amin*Mahmood A Abdulla, Hapipah M Ali,

Mohammed A Alshawsh and Suhailah W Qadir(Department of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.), Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture, 2012, 92(9), 1874-1877].

NPARR 3(4), 2012-0421 Comparison of chemical composition and antioxidant potential of volatile oil from fresh, dried and cured turmeric (Curcuma longa) rhizomes

The present work was conducted to assess and compare the chemical composition of volatile oils from fresh, dried and cured turmeric (Curcuma longa) rhizomes from a selected single

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source. In addition, their antioxidant and radical scavenging potentials were correlated with chemical composition. Major components were ar-turmerone (21.0-30.3%), α-turmerone (26.5-33.5%) and β-turmerone (18.9-21.1%). Trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity (TEAC) values were 38.9, 68.0 and 66.9 μM at 1 mg of oil/ml for fresh, dried and cured rhizome respectively in ABTS assay. IC50 values for fresh, dried and cured rhizome oil to quench DPPH radicals were 4.4, 3.5 and 3.9 mg of oil/ml respectively. Fresh, dried and cured rhizome oils showed antioxidant capacity of 358, 686 and 638 mM of ascorbic acid equivalents per 1 mg of oil, respectively. The rhizome oil shows good reducing potential and was concentration dependent. It is inferred that the cured rhizomes provided high yield of volatile oil with appreciably high antioxidant potential.[ The present work was conducted to assess and compare the chemical composition of volatile oils from fresh, dried and cured turmeric (Curcuma longa) rhizomes from a selected single source. In addition, their antioxidant and radical scavenging potentials were correlated with chemical composition. Major components were ar-turmerone (21.0–30.3%), α-turmerone (26.5-33.5%) and β-turmerone (18.9-21.1%). Trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity (TEAC) values were 38.9, 68.0 and 66.9 μM at 1 mg of oil/ml for fresh, dried and cured rhizome respectively in ABTS assay. IC50 values for fresh, dried and cured rhizome oil to quench DPPH radicals were 4.4, 3.5 and 3.9 mg of oil/ml, respectively. Fresh, dried and cured rhizome oils showed antioxidant capacity of 358, 686 and 638 mM of ascorbic acid equivalents per 1 mg of oil respectively. The rhizome oil shows good reducing potential and was concentration dependent. It is inferred that the cured rhizomes provided high yield of volatile oil with appreciably high antioxidant potential [Dhanalakshmi Kutti Gounder and Jaganmohanrao Lingamallu (Plantation Products, Spices and Flavour Technology, Central Food Technological Research Institute, Council of Scientific and Industrial Research), Mysore

570020, India), Industrial Crops and Products, 2012, 38, 124-131].

NPARR 3(4), 2012-0422 High-fat diets rich in soy or fish oil distinctly alter hypothalamic insulin signaling in rats

Hypothalamic insulin inhibits food intake, preventing obesity. High-fat feeding with polyunsaturated fats may be obesogenic, but their effect on insulin action has not been elucidated. The present study evaluated insulin hypophagia and hypothalamic signaling after central injection in rats fed either control diet (15% energy from fat) or high-fat diets (50% energy from fat) enriched with either soy or fish oil. Soy rats had increased fat pad weight and serum leptin with normal body weight, serum lipid profile and peripheral insulin sensitivity. Fish rats had decreased body and fat pad weight, low leptin and corticosterone levels, and improved serum lipid profile. A 20-mU dose of intracerebroventricular (ICV) insulin inhibited food intake in control and fish groups, but failed to do so in the soy group. Hypothalamic protein levels of IR, IRS-1, IRS-2, Akt, mTOR, p70S6K and AMPK were similar among groups. ICV insulin stimulated IR tyrosine phosphorylation in control (68%), soy (36%) and fish (34%) groups. Tyrosine phosphorylation of the pp185 band was significantly stimulated in control (78%) and soy (53%) rats, but not in fish rats. IRS-1 phosphorylation was stimulated only in control rats (94%). Akt serine phosphorylation was significantly stimulated only in control (90%) and fish (78%) rats. The results showed that, rather than the energy density, the fat type was a relevant aspect of high-fat feeding, since blockade of hypothalamic insulin signal transmission and insulin hypophagia was promoted only by the high-fat soy diet, while they were preserved in the rats fed with the high-fat fish diet [Gustavo D. Pimentel, Ana P.S. Dornellas, José C. Rosa, Fábio S. Lira, Cláudio A. Cunha, Valter T. BoldarineGabriel I.H. de

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Souza, Aparecida E. Hirata, Cláudia M.O. Nascimento, Lila M. Oyama, Regina L.H. Watanabe and Eliane B. Ribeiro* (Disciplina de Fisiologia da Nutrição, Departamento de

Fisiologia, Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), CEP 04023-062 São Paulo/SP, Brazil), The Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry, 2012, 23, (7), 822-828].

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VEGETABLES

NPARR 3(4), 2012-0423 Antioxidant activity and phenolic compounds of fractions from Portulaca oleracea L.

Portulaca oleracea fractions obtained from the crude extract of the plant by reversed-phase separation were investigated for their antioxidant activities and phenolic compounds content. Five fractions were classified based on optical absorption between the wavelength range of 200–400 nm. Fraction 3 displayed higher absorption than the other fractions. The total amount of quantified phenolics in this fraction was found to be quite high compared to that of crude extract. Chlorogenic, caffeic, p-coumaric, ferulic and rosmarinic acids were the free phenolic acids, and quercetin and kaempferol were the free flavonoids detected in Fraction 3. IC50 value of crude extract was found to be 511.8 μg/ml whereas Fraction 3 exhibited an IC50 value of 154.1 μg/ml. TEAC of Fraction 3 was found to be almost four times higher than that of the crude extract. Fraction 3 was also found to show the highest lipid peroxidation inhibiting capacity, determined by TBARS assay [Naciye Erkan*(Akdeniz University, Faculty of Science, Department of Chemistry, 07058 Antalya, Turkey), Food Chemistry, 2012, 133(3), 775-781].

NPARR 3(4), 2012-0424 Changes in β-carotene bioaccessibility and concentration during processing of carrot puree

The effect of some process and product factors (addition of olive oil, high pressure homogenisation, subsequent thermal or high pressure pasteurisation) on β-carotene bioaccessibility and isomerisation of carrot puree was investigated. High pressure homogenisation could improve β-carotene bioaccessibility by disrupting cells, but only at a pressure higher than 50 MPa. Softening of the cell walls during a subsequent thermal pasteurisation resulted in a further increase in β-carotene bioaccessibility. Unfortunately, the high temperature also induced formation of some undesirable cis-isomers. As cell walls are probably strengthened by high pressure, high pressure pasteurisation could not positively affect the amount of bioaccessible β-carotene. Moreover, the high pressure process induced β-carotene oxidation. A positive effect of olive oil on β-carotene bioaccessibility could only be noticed in combination with a thermal pasteurisation process when β-carotene was solubilised in the oil droplets. Under high pressure however, oil can be crystallised which hinders the solubilisation of β-carotene [Griet Knockaert, Lien Lemmens, Sandy Van Buggenhout, Marc Hendrickx, Ann Van Loey* (Laboratory of Food Technology and Leuven Food Science and Nutrition Research Centre (LFoRCe), Department of Microbial and Molecular Systems (M2S), Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Kasteelpark Arenberg 22, 3001 Leuven, Belgium), Food Chemistry, 2012, 133 (1), 60-67].

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WOOD NPARR 3(4), 2012-0425 Wheat gluten composites reinforced with coconut fiber

Coconut fiber-reinforced wheat gluten (WG) biocomposites were fabricated. The coconut fibers (CCFs) were chemically modified by either sodium hydroxide or silane treatment, as well as following the alkali surface treatment with a silane treatment. (3-triethoxysilylpropyl)-t-butylcarbamate (carbamate silane), which is a masked isocyanate functional silane, was used for the first time to improve interfacial adhesion between WG and natural fibers. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and gas chromatography/mass spectroscopy (GC/MS) analyses were employed to prove the presence of the silane on silane-treated coconut fiber (SCCF) and alkali-followed by silane-treated fiber (ASCCF). It was found that ASCCF has more silane content on the fiber surface than SCCF. The mechanical properties of composites with 15 mass% fiber loading were assessed by three-point bending tests. Moreover, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was used to investigate fracture surface characteristics of composites. The WG/ASCCF composite provided an 80% increase in strength, and showed superior fiber–matrix interfacial adhesion.[ Coconut fiber-reinforced wheat gluten (WG) biocomposites were fabricated. The coconut fibers (CCFs) were chemically modified by either sodium hydroxide or silane treatment, as well as following the alkali surface treatment with a silane treatment. (3-triethoxysilylpropyl)-t-butylcarbamate (carbamate silane), which is a masked isocyanate functional silane, was used for the first time to improve interfacial adhesion between WG and natural fibers. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and gas chromatography/mass spectroscopy (GC/MS) analyses were employed to prove the presence of the silane on silane-treated coconut fiber (SCCF) and alkali-followed by silane-treated fiber (ASCCF). It was found

that ASCCF has more silane content on the fiber surface than SCCF. The mechanical properties of composites with 15 mass% fiber loading were assessed by three-point bending tests. Moreover, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was used to investigate fracture surface characteristics of composites. The WG/ASCCF composite provided an 80% increase in strength, and showed superior fiber–matrix interfacial adhesion [Sudsiri Hemsri, Kasia Grieco, Alexandru D. Asandei and Richard S. Parnas*(Department of Chemical, Materials and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Connecticut, 191 Auditorium Road, Unit 3222, Storrs, CT 06269-3222, USA and Institute of Materials Science, University of Connecticut, 97 North Eagleville Road, Storrs, CT 06269-3136, USA), Composites Part A: Applied Science and Manufacturing, 2012, 43 (7), 1160-1168].

NPARR 3(4), 2012-0426 Effects of hemicellulose extraction on properties of wood flour and wood–plastic composites

Hygroscopicity, low durability, and low thermal resistance are disadvantages of lignocellulosic materials that also plague wood–plastic composites (WPCs). Hemicellulose is the most hydrophilic wood polymer and is currently considered as a sugar source for the bioethanol industry. The objective of this research is to extract hemicellulose from woody materials and enhance the properties of WPC by diminishing the hydrophilic character of wood. Hemicellulose of Southern Yellow Pine was extracted by hot-water at three different temperatures: 140, 155, and 170°C. Wood flour was compounded with polypropylene in an extruder, both with and without a coupling agent. Injection molding was used to make tensile test samples. The thermal stability of wood flour was found to have increased after extraction. Extraction of hemicellulose improved the tensile strength and water resistance of composites, which may indicate a decrease in the hygroscopicity of wood

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flour, better compatibility, and interfacial bonding of the filler and matrix [Omid Hosseinaei, Siqun Wang, Ali Akbar Enayati and Timothy G. Rials (Center for Renewable Carbon, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA) Composites Part A: Applied Science and Manufacturing, 2012, 43(4), 686–694].

NPARR 3(4), 2012-0427 Properties of three-layer particleboards made from kenaf (Hibiscus cannabinus L.) and rubberwood (Heveabrasiliensis)

The aim for this study was to evaluate the mechanical and physical performances of three-layer experimental particleboards. Rubberwood particles were used in the face layers while kenaf (Hibiscus cannabinus L.) particles were used in the middle of the panels of the particleboards. Meanwhile, 100% kenaf stem and 100% kenaf core particles were used for production of single-layer control panels. The results showed that

panels with kenaf stem in the middle layer had better performance than the panels with kenaf core in the middle layer. Three-layer particleboards of Type 1 showed significant average increment of modulus of elasticity that was 56% and 79% higher than those of the 100% kenaf stem and 100% kenaf core particleboards, respectively. Adding kenaf stem to the middle layer up to 30% of its composition gave the highest values of modulus of rupture, modulus of elasticity, and internal bonding and the lowest values of thickness swelling and water absorption. All three-layer panels with kenaf stem in the middle layer met the requirements of the Japanese Industrial Standard JIS A 5908, especially for modulus of rupture, modulus of elasticity, and internal bonding [A.H. Juliana* M.T. Paridah* and U.M.K. Anwar.[ Institute of Tropical Forestry and Forest Products, 43400 Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia ()Materials & Design, 2012, 40,59-63].

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OTHERS (incl. Cultivation, Distribution, New species, Postharvest Technologies, Packaging Technology, New technologies/Know How Developed, Book reviews, Forthcoming events) CULTIVATION NPARR 3(4), 2012-0428 Large scale in vitro propagation of Stevia rebaudiana (bert) for commercial application: Pharmaceutically important and Antidiabetic medicinal herb

Stevia rebaudiana is a valuable medicinal plant species and it is being used for the treatment of diabetes. Currently, there is a high demand for raw material of this medicinal herb due to ever increasing diabetes disorder among the population. In order to meet the increased demand an efficient in vitro propagation of S. rebaudiana was established. Nodal explants collected from the field were cultured on MS basal medium fortified with different concentrations of BAP (0.5-3.0mg/l) and KIN (0.5-3.0mg/l) individually for shoot bud induction. In vitro derived nodal buds were cultured on MS medium supplemented with different concentrations (0.5-3.0 mg/l) of BAP and KIN for multiple shoot bud regeneration. In the second experiment, in vitro derived buds were placed on MS medium supplemented with different concentrations of BAP (0.5-3.0 mg/l) in combination with 0.5 mg/l IAA or IBA or NAA for shoot bud multiplication. The highest frequency (94.50%) of multiple shoot regeneration with maximum number of shoots (15. 69 shoots/explant) was noticed on MS medium supplemented with 1.0 mg/l BAP. For large scale plant production, in vitro derived nodal bud explants were cultured on MS medium fortified with 1.0 mg/l BAP, in which about 123 shoots/explant were obtained after three subcultures on the same media composition. Elongated shoots (>2 cm) dissected out from the in vitro proliferated shoot clumps were cultured on half-strength MS medium containing different concentrations of NAA (0.1-0.5 mg/l) and/or MS

medium fortified with various concentrations (0.5-2.0 mg/l) of auxins (NAA, IAA and IBA) for root induction. Highest frequency of rooting (96%) was noticed on half-strength MS medium augmented with 0.4 mg/l NAA. The rooted plantlets were successfully transferred into plastic cups containing sand and soil in the ratio of 1:2 and subsequently established in the greenhouse. The present in vitro propagation protocol would facilitate an alternative method for rapid and large-scale production of this important antidiabetic medicinal plant [M. Thiyagarajan and P. Venkatachalam* (Plant Genetic Engineering and Molecular Biology Lab, Department of Biotechnology, Periyar University, Salem-11, Tamil Nadu, India), Industrial Crops and Products, 2012, 37(1), 111-117].

NPARR 3(4), 2012-0429 Requirement of major nutrients for annatto (Bixa orellana L.) seed yield and bixin content

A field experiment was conducted during 2002-07 at CHES, Chettalli, Karnataka to study the optimum requirement of major nutrients for the optimum seed yield and bixin content in annatto plant. Application of 140 g N + 60 g P2O5 + 150 g K2O/pl/year recorded higher seed yield (2.674 kg/plant) and bixin content than other treatments. Response Surface Model analysis revealed that the optimum dose of N and K2O (with fixed P2O5) for optimum seed yield (2.99 kg/plant) would be 103.15 and 134.94 g/plant, respectively and the optimum dose of the nutrients would be 102.81 g/plant of N and 134.06 g/plant of K2O for the optimum (2.6%) bixin content[A field experiment was conducted during 2002–07 at CHES, Chettalli, Karnataka to study the optimum requirement of major nutrients for the optimum seed yield and bixin content in annatto plant. Application of 140 g N + 60 g P2O5 + 150 g K2O/pl/year recorded higher seed yield (2.674 kg/plant) and bixin content than other treatments. Response Surface Model analysis revealed that the optimum dose of N and K2O

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(with fixed P2O5) for optimum seed yield (2.99 kg/plant) would be 103.15 and 134.94 g/plant, respectively and the optimum dose of the nutrients would be 102.81 g/plant of N and 134.06 g/plant of K2O for the optimum (2.6%) bixin content [Kumar Sudhir*, Venugopalan R., Rao V.K, Nair A.K. and Chithiraichelvan R (GSM Division, Indian Grassland and Fodder Research Institute, Jhansi 284003, Uttar Pradesh), Indian Journal of Horticulture, 2012, 69(3), 399- 403].

NPARR 3(4), 2012-0430 Performance of wedge grafting in guava under different growing conditions

The experiment was conducted to find out the efficacy of wedge grafting on three guava cultivars during different months of year. Wedge grafting was tried in four months, viz. July (M1), August (M2), September (M3) and October (M4) on three varieties, namely Allahabad Safeda, Lucknow-49 and Allahabad Surkha under two different conditions, namely, polyhouse, and open field conditions. Wedge grafting in the month of July gave better result in polyhouse (77.17%) as well as in open field condition (66.43%). Polyhouse gave better response than open field conditions with respect to number of days taken to sprout, graft survival, number of leaves and length of sprouted shoot [Syamal M.M.*, Katiyar Ranjeet and Joshi Mamta (Department of Horticulture, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi-221 005), Indian Journal of Horticulture, 2012, 69 (3)424-427].

NPARR 3(4), 2012-0431 Effect of NaCl salinity on the growth and mineral nutrition of one month old Prosopis juliflora (Sw.) DC seedlings

The effect of NaCI salinity on the growth and mineral nutrition of one month old Prosopis juliflora seedlings was studied with the help of

sand culture experiment. The seedlings were treated with 100, 200 and 300 mM NaCI concentrations, respectively. It was found that there was stimulation in plant growth at low concentrations of salt, while at higher concentrations it was hampered causing a marked decrease in the fresh (60%) and dry weight (80%). The level of sodium, chloride and calcium was found to increase in the roots as well as leaves with increasing levels of salinity in the rooting medium. The level of potassium and phosphorus however, was found to decrease in the leaves and roots of seedlings grown under NaCI stress [Amol V. Pati* and Baburao A. Karadge (Department of Botany, Shivaji University, Kolhapur (MS) India-416 004), Pharmacognosy Journal, 2012, 4(31), 63-66].

NPARR 3(4), 2012-0432 The effect of soil solarization and fumigation on pests and yields in greenhouse tomatoes

The phasing out of methyl bromide as a fumigant has prompted a search for possible alternatives. Here, the relative efficacy of soil solarization and fumigation with chloropicrin and 1, 3-dichloropropene (CP+1,3-D) was evaluated in greenhouse-grown tomatoes. Experiments were conducted over two seasons in southern Italy, aimed at evaluating the effects of soil treatment on soil-borne pest control, and the vegetative growth and fruit production of tomato. Solarization provided a better level of control over the major fungal pathogens (Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. lycopersici and f. sp. radicis lycopersici, as well as Pyrenochaeta lycopersici) than CP+1, 3-D fumigation. Solarization was also more effective in reducing the population of Meloidogyne spp. in the soil, and was particularly valuable for the suppression of the parasitic plant branched broomrape Phelipanche ramosa (syn. Orobanche ramosa). In both seasons, solarization was more beneficial than CP+1, 3-D fumigation in terms of plant growth and crop productivity. In conclusion, solarization provided a good level of control over some important tomato pests and

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weeds, while at the same time improving the productivity in an environmentally friendly manner. It should therefore represent a viable alternative to methyl bromide fumigation for the greenhouse production of tomato [S. Lombardo,

A.M.G. Longo,A. Lo Monaco and G. Mauromicale* (Dipartimento di Scienze delle Produzioni Agrarie e Alimentari, Università di Catania, via Valdisavoia 5, 95123 Catania, Italy), Crop Protection, 2012, 37, 59-64].

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NEW TECHNOLOGIES/KNOW HOW DEVELOPED NPARR 3(4), 2012-0433 Removal of dark colored compounds from date syrup using activated carbon: A kinetic study

Dark colored compounds in date syrup have been removed using powdered activated carbon (PAC) at different operating conditions including different temperatures (30, 40, 50 and 60°C), as well as different PAC concentrations (0.04, 0.06, 0.08, 0.1 and 0.12gml−1). Adsorption isotherms of Langmuir, Freundlich, Tempkin and Harkins–Jura were selected to fit the equilibrium data at different operating temperatures. The isotherms were correlated based on the absorbance intensity and the concentration of a colored compound, which gives the same absorbance intensity as the real date syrup. Among the adsorption models, the Langmuir isotherm best fitted the experimental data with coefficient of 0.99. To study the adsorption kinetics, the pseudo-first order and the pseudo-second order models were evaluated to fit the experimental data. The pseudo-second order equation fitted the experimental data very well [Seyed Mohammad Nasehi, Sara Ansari* and Mohammad Sarshar (Department of Food Science and Technology, Kazerun Branch, Islamic Azad University, Kazerun, Iran)Journal of Food Engineering, 2012, 111(3), 490-495].

NPARR 3(4), 2012-0434 Strategies for stable anaerobic digestion of vegetable waste

International trade and the market demand for pre-prepared agricultural produce is not only increasing the total quantity of waste agricultural biomass but also centralising its availability, making it potentially useful for energy production. The current work considers the suitability of vegetable trimmings and rejects from high-value produce air-freighted between Africa and Europe as a feedstock for anaerobic digestion. The physical and chemical

characteristics of a typical mixed vegetable waste of this type were determined and the theoretical energy yield predicted and compared to experimentally-determined calorific values, and to the energy recovered through a batch biochemical methane potential test. A semi-continuous digestion trial was then carried out with daily feed additions at different organic loading rates (OLR). At an OLR of 2 g VS L−1 day−1 the substrate gave a methane yield of 0.345Lg-1 VS added with VS destruction 81.3%, and showed that 76.2% of the measured calorific value of the waste could be reclaimed as methane. This was in good agreement with the estimated energy recovery of 68.6% based on reaction stoichiometry, and was 99% of the biochemical methane potential (BMP). Higher loading rates reduced the specific methane yield and energy conversion efficiency, and led to a drop in digester pH which could not be effectively controlled by alkali additions. To maintain digester stability it was necessary to supplement with additional trace elements including tungsten, which allowed loading rates up to 4g VS L−1 day−1 to be achieved. Stability was also improved by addition of yeast extract (YE), but the higher gas yield obtained was as a result of the contribution made by the YE and no synergy was shown. Co-digestion using card packaging and cattle slurry as co-substrates also proved to be an effective means of restoring and maintaining stable operating conditions [Y. Jiang, S. Heaven and C.J. Banks(Faculty of Civil Engineering and the Environment, University of Southampton, Southampton SO17 1BJ, UK), Renewable Energy, 2012, 44, 206-214].

NPARR 3(4), 2012-0435 Fluidized bed combustion of residues from oranges’ plantations and processing

Some of the major agricultural residues of Mediterranean countries, orange tree pruning, leaves and peels and their blends, were evaluated for heat production. The experiments were conducted in a lab-scale fluidized bed facility.

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Temperature distributions along the reactor and flue gas emissions were measured at different excess air ratios, fuel feed rates and fuel mixing ratios. The combustion performance of the residues was studied in terms of emissions and efficiency. The results showed that a higher excess air ratio or feed rate improved combustion efficiency. Flue gas emissions were not significantly affected, when the excess air factor λ varied between 1.4 and 1.7. CO emissions were found to increase with volatiles and ash contents of the fuels. A large amount of volatiles was burnt in the freeboard. SO2 emissions were negligible, while NOx emissions were generally high. Of the biomass fuels tested, orange tree pruning offered the higher efficiency and was the most environmentally friendly [Despina Vamvuka, Stelios Sfakiotakis and Manolis Kotronakis (Department of Mineral Resources Engineering, Technical University of Crete, 73100 Chania-Crete, Greece), Renewable Energy, 2012, 44, 231-237].

NPARR 3(4), 2012-0436 Solvent-free microwave extraction of essential oil from Dryopteris fragrans and evaluation of antioxidant activity

Solvent-free microwave extraction (SFME) of the essential oil from Dryopteris fragrans and its antioxidant activity were investigated. A central composite design

combined with response surface methodology was applied to study the influences of extraction time, irradiation power and humidity (proportion of water pretreatment). A maximal extraction yield of 0.33% was achieved under optimal conditions of extraction time 34 min, irradiation power 520 W and humidity 51%. Sixteen compounds, representing 89.65% of the oil, were identified, of which the major ones, (1R,4S,11R)-4,6,6,11-tetramethyltricyclo [5.4.0.0 (4,8)]undecan-1-ol (30.49%), 1R,4S,7S,11R-2,2,4,8-tetramethyltricyclo[5.3.1.0(4,11)] undec-8-ene (22.91%) and, 1,4,4a,5,6,7,8,8a-octahydro-2, 5, 5, 8a-tetramethyl-1-naphthalenemethanol (15.11%), accounted for 68.51% of the oil. The antioxidant activity of the essential oil was assessed by 2, 2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), β-carotene/linoleic acid, and reducing power assay, the IC50 values were 0.19, 0.09 and 0.18 mg/mL, respectively. All these results suggest that SFME represents an excellent alternative protocol for production of essential oils from plant materials [Xiao-Juan Li, Wei WangMeng Luo, Chun-Ying Li, Yuan-Gang ZuPan-Song Mu and Yu-Jie Fu* (Key Laboratory of Forest Plant Ecology, Ministry of Education, Northeast Forestry University, 150040 Harbin, PR China and Engineering Research Center of Forest Bio-Preparation, Ministry of Education, Northeast Forestry University, 150040 Harbin, PR China), Food Chemistry, 2012, 133 (2) 437–444].

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POSTHARVEST TECHNOLOGIES

NPARR 3(4), 2012-0437 Evaluation of potato tuber moth mortality following postharvest cold storage of potatoes

Developmental stages of the potato tuber moth, Phthorimaea operculella (Zeller), were subjected to low temperatures to determine the effect of short- and long-term exposure on egg hatch, larval mortality, and adult longevity. The hatching of eggs, for all ages, did not exceed 12 and 38% after 35 d of exposure to 3 and 7°C, respectively. Survival of 1- and 8-d-old larvae was negatively affected by cold storage. One-d-

old larvae did not survive 42 d of cold storage at 3°C. No adult emergence occurred after 56 d of exposure to 7°C for 8-d-old larvae. In adult longevity experiments, 5.5 and 8.3% of moths were still alive after 28 and 35d of storage at 3 and 7°C, respectively. The low temperatures applied during postharvest storage of potatoes could be efficiently used as a protective disinfestation technique against the potato tuber moth [George Saour*, Antonious Al-Daoude and Hala Ismail (Department of Biotechnology, Atomic Energy Commission of Syria, P. O. Box 6091, Damascus, Syria), Crop Protection, 2012, 3844-48].

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Forthcoming Conferences, Seminars, Exhibitions and Trainings

1. Nutrition and Science 2013 Conference, 13-14th February 2013, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India, Website: http://www.food-nutritionscience.com.

2. National Conference on Green Technologies for Conservation of Biodiversity

Conference, 16th February 2013, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, India, Website: http://gtcb13.webs.com/about.

3. International conference on Advances in Biotechnology and patenting, conference 18-21

February 2013, Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu, India, Website: http://icabp2013.webnode.com.

4. International Conference on Digestive Disorders, Conference, 23-24 February 2013,

Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh, India, Website: http://www.iapen.co.in/iapen-conference.html.

5. World Forests Summit Conference, 5-6 March 2013, Stockholm, Sweden, Website: http://cemea.economistconferences.com/event/world-forests-summit.

6. 2013 International Conference on Life Science & Biological Engineering (2013 LS&BE)

Conference, 15-17 March 2013, Tokyo, Japan, Website: http://www.lsbe.org

7. 1st Mediterranean Symposium on Medicinal and Aromatic Plants (MESMAP-2013), Conference 17-20 April 2013, Gazimagosa (Famagusta)-The Northern Cyprus, Cyprus Website: http://www.mesmap2013.emu.edu.tr/

8. 3rd Annual International Conference on Advances in Biotechnology, Biotech 2013, 18-

19 March 2013, Hotel Fort Canning, Singapore, Website: http://advbiotech.org/Contact.html

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ANNOUNCEMENTS

Original research Papers and Reviews on topics dealt within this repository are invited for

publication in peer reviewed, quarterly journal (March, June, September and December), Indian Journal of Natural Products and Resources (Formerly known as Natural Product Radiance). For details visit nopr@niscair.res.in. The papers may be sent to Dr (Mrs) Sunita Garg, Editor or to Mrs Parmod Singla, Associate Editor, Periodicals Division, National Institute of Science Communication and Information Resources (NISCAIR), CSIR, Dr K. S. Krishnan Marg (Inside Pusa Campus). New Delhi-110012; Phone: (091)-11-25846001, (091)-11-25846304-07, Ext.258, 255. Fax: (091)-11-2584 7062. E-mail: sunitag@niscair.res.in; parmod@niscair.res.in; ijnpr@niscair.res.in