Concentration Of Extract Research Articles

The Inhibitory Potential of Strawberry (Fragaria x ananassa) Extract Against Staphylococcus aureus: Implications for Dental Caries Prevention

Background: Dental caries is a prevalent oral health issue globally, and Staphylococcus aureus is a key pathogen involved in its development. Strawberry fruits, known for their medicinal properties, contain bioactive compounds with potential antibacterial effects. This study aimed to investigate the inhibitory potential of strawberry extract against S. aureus. Methods: A laboratory experimental study was conducted using a post-test-only control group design. Varying concentrations (10%, 15%, 20%, 25%) of strawberry fruit extract were prepared. The antibacterial activity was assessed using the disc diffusion method against S. aureus. Distilled water served as a negative control. The diameter of inhibition zones was measured after 24 hours of incubation at 37°C. Results: Strawberry fruit extract demonstrated inhibitory effects on the growth of S. aureus at concentrations of 15%, 20%, and 25%. The average inhibition zone diameters were 0.54 mm, 2.30 mm, and 3.00 mm, respectively. No inhibition was observed at 10% concentration or with the distilled water control. Conclusion: Strawberry fruit extract exhibits potential as an antibacterial agent against S. aureus, suggesting its possible application in dental caries prevention. Further research is needed to explore its clinical efficacy and identify the specific bioactive compounds responsible for the observed antibacterial activity.

Exploring the Anti-Urolithiatic Potential of White Seeds from Abrus Precatorius Via In Vitro Investigations

Medicinal plants are a valuable aspect of local heritage with global importance, often used as remedies for various health conditions. Their therapeutic properties are linked to a wide variety of complex chemical compounds, particularly secondary metabolites, found in different plant parts. Identifying the specific components responsible for medicinal effects is essential. Phytochemicals, which are abundant in medicinal plants, are generally considered safer and less toxic compared to synthetic alternatives. In line with this understanding, the present research investigates the in vitro anti-urolithiatic potential of white seeds of Abrusprecatorius. The seeds were chosen for their possible role in treating urolithiasis. Phytochemical screening of the plant extract revealed the presence of compounds such as flavonoids, coumarins, saponins, proteins, glycosides, quinones, and tannins.Two In Vitro assays, Crystal Nucleation and Aggregation, were performed, both with and without inhibitors. The study tested various concentrations of plant extracts (50mg/ml, 100mg/ml, 150mg/ml, 200mg/ml, and 250mg/ml) using four solvents: water, ethanol, chloroform, and petroleum ether, to assess their effect on calcium oxalate (CaOX) crystal formation, which is a primary component of kidney stones.Among the extracts tested, the water extract showed the highest inhibition of nucleation (85%) at a concentration of 250mg/ml. Aqueous, ethanol, and chloroform extracts exhibited notable anti-urolithiatic activity across different concentrations. Crystal aggregation was assessed using a spectrophotometer, and the water extract demonstrated the highest inhibition (78%) at the same concentration. Additionally, the chloroform extract showed significant anti-urolithiatic activity.When comparing extracts, the chloroform extract at 500mg/ml was the most effective in inhibiting the growth of calcium oxalate crystals. Overall, the study highlights the potential of Abrusprecatorius white seed extracts in inhibiting calcium oxalate crystal nucleation, aggregation, and growth, suggesting their potential as a treatment for urolithiasis. These results underscore the value of these extracts as promising agents in managing kidney stones

Analysis of PH, foam stability, and antioxidant activity in soap formulation from extract of pedada leaves (Sonneratia caseolaris) and pandan leaves (Pandanus amaryllifolius)

Plant-based antioxidant soap formulations need to continue to be developed. Soap formulated from extracts of pedada leaves (Sonneratia caseolaris) and pandan leaves (Pandanus amaryllifolius) has been observed using 5-15 mL acetone or ethanol solvents for pedada leaf extraction, and extract concentrations of 0-40% and cocamide-DEA 2-8% for pandan leaves. The formulation results obtained from observing soap products from pedada leaf and pandan leaf extracts have pH, foam stability, antioxidant activity, and detergency power that comply with standards. Contour plot analysis for both formulations shows that the pH of the soap will decrease as the amount of solvent used decreases. Meanwhile, the addition of cocamide DEA increases the pH of liquid soap. Foam stability increases with increasing solvent amount but slightly decreases with the addition of cocamide-DEA.

The Application of Mulberry Elements into a Novel Form of Easy-to-Prepare Dried Smoothie

The European market offers a variety of functional foods targeted at prediabetic and diabetic patients, with different approaches to reducing postprandial glucose levels. The utilization of white and black mulberry in new products could be an area of interest to many conscious consumers. The study aimed to design a novel form (dried) of easy-to-prepare product by applying nutritious mulberry in various proportions and creating an aesthetically appealing smoothie product with a distinctive taste profile. Such an easy-to-prepare form of smoothie was obtained by utilizing the freeze-drying process, while typical market smoothies are liquid. Sensory evaluations of the fresh, dried, and reconstructed smoothies and their basic characteristics were conducted. Moreover, antiradical tests (with ABTS+• and DPPH•), the phenolic compound profile (HPLC/PDA), and the L*a*b profile were analyzed. The results of the sensory evaluation tests were divided into two groups: Polish and foreign panelists. It was observed that mulberry-licorice drop-based smoothies were preferred fresh. Yet dried and reconstituted capsule-based smoothies were favored overall. Generally, both Polish and foreign panelists preferred lower concentrations of mulberry and licorice extracts (DB) in fresh smoothies, while in dried or reconstructed smoothie form, panelists scored higher (DC) and lower (DB) concentrations quite similarly (favored both concentrations). From the group of identified phenolic compounds, cinnamic acid derivates dominated all analyzed smoothies. Many analyzed types of flavonoids (quercetin, rutin, kaempferol) and naringenin were found in the smoothies. Some differences were noted in the antiradical tests but were only statistically significant for DPPH• scavenging activity, which was higher for the DB1, DB2, and DC1 samples. Generally, even higher addition of licorice and mulberry did not negatively affect panelists’ ratings and the analyzed activities.

Pectin Edible Films Filled with Ilex paraguariensis Concentrate Extract and Its Characterization

Ilex paraguariensis (IP) extract was added to prepare edible films using a central rotational composite design (CCRD) 22 with IP extract and sorbitol concentrations as variables. The IP extract was characterized by color parameters, total phenolic content, caffeine, flavonoids, and chlorophyll content, and antioxidant activity and the edible films were assessed for the same analysis and thickness, water vapor permeability (WVP), solubility in water, fluorescence, photodegradation and UV/Vis light barrier, FT-IR, thermogravimetry, and differential exploratory colorimetry. Sorbitol increased thickness and WVP, while the extract influenced the concentration of phenolic compounds in the films. The optimum concentrations of extract and sorbitol were 10% and 15%, respectively. Films presented thermal resistance (until 230 °C) and an excellent barrier to UV light. Furthermore, these films could carry compounds originally in IP, showing good functional properties concerning the water vapor barrier (showing a great variation scale due to the possibility to increase sorbitol or not, between 3.33 and 5.27 g mm/m2 day KPa). The films showed great potential to replace conventional primary packaging, and if consumed with food, as a bullet paper, they can add nutritional value to the packaged product.

The Possibility of Environmentally Sustainable Yield and Quality Management of Spring Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) of the Cornetto Variety When Using Sapropel Extract

Sustainable development is one of the main directions of modern agriculture. First of all, sustainability in the agricultural sector can be achieved through the possible abandonment of traditional mineral fertilizers. Many decades of using these fertilizers have led to the degradation of arable soils and to soil and environmental pollution. As a result, this causes reductions in yields and the environmental quality of agricultural products and affects the health of the population. An alternative to traditional mineral fertilizers may be the use of innovative organomineral fertilizers obtained from local resources. These include manure, humus, compost, sediments, etc. In recent years, fertilizers obtained from the sapropels of the bottom sediments of lakes have become widespread. Their distinctive feature is the environmental friendliness and completeness of the content of chemical elements and substances necessary for the development and growth of plants. In addition, the methods of obtaining and applying these fertilizers allow us to talk about their effectiveness in use. The range of applications of these fertilizers is diverse, from use in the form of a dry extract applied directly to the soil to the use of liquid suspensions used at various stages of processing and from pre-sowing seed treatment to watering and spraying plants at different periods of vegetation. Moreover, an important aspect is the research work on the variational use of sapropel fertilizers on different crops, with different methods of production and concentrations and at different stages of processing. This publication contains the results of a study of the effect of the obtained innovative sapropel fertilizer on productivity, wheat grain quality, and economic efficiency (Triticum aestivum L.). To identify the optimal concentration of sapropel extract, laboratory studies were carried out to determine the germination energy and germination of wheat seeds of different varieties when they were soaked in various concentrations: 0.4, 0.8, 1.2, 1.6, and 2.0 g/L. The best indicators of germination energy and germination of wheat seeds during treatment with the extract were obtained at a concentration of 1.2 g/L. The research was conducted at an accredited variety testing laboratory. A field experiment was conducted in the fields of the agrobiological station of North Kazakhstan University named after Manash Kozybayev. The treatment of the seeds was carried out by soaking them in sapropel extract to evenly distribute the substance. The scheme of the field experiment included the option of using foliar treatment with a solution of sapropel extract at the tillering stage. As a result of the application of the obtained extract in the field, environmental and socio-economic efficiency was noted. The conducted field studies note its positive effect and effectiveness on the morphological, qualitative, and quantitative indicators of the wheat harvest. In the areas where wheat seeds were pretreated, as well as where foliar treatment with the resulting sapropel suspension was carried out, the best yield indicators were revealed. In these variants of the experiment with pre-sowing and pre-sowing and foliar treatment with the sapropel extract solution, the yield was 3.63 and 3.81 tons per hectare, respectively. The introduction of sapropel extract at the stage of seed treatment before sowing, as well as foliar processing of wheat at the tillering stage, will increase the efficiency and profitability of the agricultural industry and obtain a synergistic effect in the form of socio-economic efficiency and environmental safety of production. In our opinion, this will contribute to the development of sustainable agriculture and the production of environmental products.

The in vitro Study of the Synergistic Antibacterial Effect of Hydroalcoholic Mentha Extract with Alum on the Growth of Streptococcus mutans

: Antimicrobial resistance poses a significant global health challenge, necessitating the search for novel therapeutic approaches. Streptococcus mutans, a key etiological agent in dental caries, requires innovative strategies due to its biofilm-forming ability and resistance to conventional antibiotics. Natural plant-derived compounds have garnered attention as potential antimicrobial agents with a low risk of resistance development. In this study, we investigated the synergistic antibacterial effect of a hydroalcoholic Mentha extract combined with alum against Streptococcus mutans (PTCC 16836). The well diffusion assay demonstrated that alum exhibited a larger inhibition zone diameter (12.04 ± 2.02 mm) compared to the hydroalcoholic Mentha extract (10.33 ± 1.53 mm). However, the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values for the hydroalcoholic Mentha extract (8.20 ± 5.57 mg/mL) and alum (0.35 ± 0.20 mg/mL) were comparable. The minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) for the hydroalcoholic Mentha extract was 10 mg/mL, while the MBC for alum was 0.625 ± 0.006 mg/mL. The combination of these substances demonstrated a synergistic effect, indicating enhanced antibacterial activity against Streptococcus mutans. The study's findings suggest potential applications in dentistry, offering a natural and effective adjunctive treatment for dental caries management. The underlying mechanisms of this synergistic effect warrant further exploration. To translate these promising findings into clinical applications, further in vivo investigations and rigorously designed clinical trials are necessary to establish the safety and efficacy of this combination therapy. The natural origin of these substances may provide an environmentally sustainable and cost-effective approach in the fight against antimicrobial resistance.

Predictive Modeling and Adsorption Behavior, Kinetics, and Thermodynamic Studies of <i>Anthocleista grandiflora </i>Leaf Extract for Corrosion Inhibition of Carbon Steel in Seawater

This study investigates the corrosion inhibition performance of Anthocleista grandiflora leaf (AGL) extract on carbon steel in seawater, considering the effects of temperature, immersion time, and inhibitor concentration. Predictive modeling, adsorption behavior, and the kinetics and thermodynamics of the inhibition process were examined. The weight loss technique,characterization techniques combined with response surface methodology (RSM), revealed that the AGL extract follows the Langmuir adsorption model, exhibiting physical adsorption with ΔG values between −16.24 to −15.49kJ/mol, indicating spontaneous and endothermic inhibition. The thermodynamic parameters entropy (−198.87 to −52.58 J/mol), enthalpy (20.42 to 53.42 kJ/mol), and activation energy (13.68 to 56.32 kJ/mol further support this. The corrosion reaction follows first-order kinetics, with the half-life decreasing as the rate constant and extract concentration increase.The SEM images revealed that the AGL extract formed a protective surface layer on the mild steel, effectively preventing pitting. This protective effect became more pronounced as the concentration of the extract increased. RSM optimization identified optimal conditions for maximum inhibition efficiency (98.70%) and corrosion rate (0.058 mm/y) at 800 ppm, 303 K, and 45 days, with a prediction accuracy of 95%, making it suitable for application in the oil and gas industry.

In vitro Antileishmanial Effect of Scrophulariabavanatia Extract on Leishmania (L) tropica [MHOM/NADIM3

Background: Cutaneous Leishmaniasis (CL) is a widespread parasitic disease that causes skin lesions and ulcers. Although the World Health Organization recommends Glucantime as a treatment for CL, this remedy presents unexpected side effects and high costs. This study investigates the in vitro antileishmanial effect of Scrophulariabavanatia hydroalcoholic extract on Leishmaniatropica promastigotes. Objectives: This study aims to evaluate the in vitro antileishmanial effects of a local Scrophulariabavanatia hydroalcoholic extract on Leishmania (L.) tropica [MHOM/NADIM3] promastigotes. Methods: Various concentrations (0.2, 1, 5, 25, and 125 mg/mL) of Scrophulariabavanatia methanol extract were prepared and added to cultures containing the parasite. The amastigote form of the L. tropica strain [MHOM/IR/NADIM3] was isolated from mouse spleens and transformed into promastigotes in Novy-Nicolle-Mac Neal medium. The antileishmanial activity of Scrophulariabavanatia extract was then compared to Glucantime using cell proliferation ELISA. Results: The LC50 values in the stationary stage for both Scrophulariabavanatia extract and Glucantime (mg/mL) were greater than in the dynamic stage. The extract at concentrations of 0.2, 1, 5, 25, and 125 mg/mL did not show significant differences after 24 and 48 hours (P > 0.05) compared to negative controls but did show a significant effect after 72 hours (P = 0.000). The extract demonstrated increased effectiveness with higher concentrations and longer exposure times. Conclusions: Scrophulariabavanatia extract inhibits the survival and growth of Leishmania promastigotes. Future studies should further explore its effects on in vivo survival of the parasite.

Nostoxanthin Biosynthesis by Sphingomonas Species (COS14-R2): Isolation, Identification, and Optimization of Culture Conditions.

Nostoxanthin, a yellow pigment, belongs to the xanthophyll group of carotenoids found in various species of bacteria and cyanobacteria. Several species of Sphingomonas can produce appropriate carotenoids for survive in various environments. This comprise nostoxanthin, a significant carotenoid. The study isolated the Sphingomonas species strain COS14-R2 from the Cosmos bipinnatus and identified it through the whole-genome sequence. The strain consists of a circular chromosome with a length of 3,677,457 base pairs.s ecThe genome consists of three carotenoid biosynthesis genes, specifically crtB (phytoene synthase), crtI (phytoene desaturase), and crtY (Lycopene beta-cyclase), which are involved in the synthesis of nostoxanthin. The strain has a circular, undulated colony morphology with a deep yellow color. It demonstrates optimal growth in liquid media at 25 to 35°C and exhibits a high tolerance for pH levels between 5 and 11 and requires adequate quantities of carbon and nitrogen. We observed the highest concentration of nostoxanthin was recorded at 35°C, pH of 7.5, glucose concentration of 40g L-1, and a yeast extract concentration of 5g L-1 during dark incubation. The fed-batch fermentation process produced nostoxanthin at a concentration of 217.22 ± 9.60mg L-1, with a selectivity of 72.32% and a productivity of 2.59g/L/h. The dry biomass extract was purified using column chromatography. The LC-MS/MS analysis of the purified fraction indicated that the molecular weight of nostoxanthin is 600.5098m/z. The DPPH assay result of 75.5 ± 0.33% indicates nostoxanthin is highly effective in scavenging free radicals.

Effects of Italian ryegrass desiccation timing on corn performance: is growth inhibition due to the release of plant allelochemicals or nitrogen immobilization?

Context There is no consensus between farmers and researchers about timing for ryegrass desiccation before corn sowing, considering interactions between ryegrass straw, nitrogen immobilization, and allelochemical release impacting corn growth. Aims This study aims to assess the effects of different desiccation timings of annual ryegrass (Lolium multiflorum Lam.) and nitrogen management on corn. We sought to elucidate whether corn growth inhibition is attributable to allelochemical release or nitrogen immobilization. Methods A two-year field factorial experiment was conducted, with Factor A comprising fallow and three ryegrass desiccation timings before corn sowing, and Factor B involving two nitrogen fertilization methods to evaluate N immobilization. Laboratory experiments assessed allelopathic properties using a 3 (desiccation periods) × 5 (ryegrass extract concentrations) factorial design. Assessments included corn (Zea mays) germination, seedling radicle and coleoptile length, and germination speed. Results Ryegrass desiccation timing of less than 20 days before corn sowing reduced corn stature at the beginning of development and grain yield, due to nitrogen immobilization and allelopathic influences possibly exercised by caffeic acid and epicatechin present in roots and shoots, released as residues decomposed. Non-desiccated ryegrass aqueous extracts reduced germination speed and germinability. Root/shoot extracts reduced seedling elongation. Desiccated aqueous extracts at 15 and 30 days before corn sowing didn’t present inhibitory effects. Conclusion Nitrogen enhances corn growth regardless of ryegrass influence, under these experimental conditions. Ryegrass desiccation timing affects corn yield; and delaying corn sowing post-desiccation mitigates losses. Ryegrass extracts inhibit corn germination and viability, regardless of concentration, possibly due to phytotoxic compounds.

Microbiological Characteristics of Beef Sausage Enriched With Roselle (Hibiscus sabdariffa L.) Sepal Extract

ABSTRACTAdding plant extracts to sausage and other meat products is very important to improve their quality, safety, and durability. The aim of this study was to evaluate the microbiological properties of beef sausage enriched with roselle (Hibiscus sabdariffa L.) sepal extract. The total content of phenolic and flavonoid compounds in hydroalcoholic extract of Roselle sepals was measured by Folin‐Ciocalteu test and aluminum chloride colorimetric method, and antioxidant activity was measured by DPPH method. Pectin was used to encapsulate the extract. The characteristics of capsules, including particle size, zeta potential, and capsule efficiency were measured. Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) and Minimum Bactericidal Concentration (MBC) of extracts were performed by tube dilution method. Microbial tests were performed on sausage treatment samples. Analysis of the obtained data was done using SPSS and Excel software. The study revealed that the total phenolic and flavonoid compounds in the extract were 174.6 mg of gallic acid per gram and 16.8368 mg of quercetin, respectively. The extract displayed the highest antioxidant activity at elevated concentrations. Particle size ranged from 16.833 to 640.534 μm. The zeta potential and capsule efficiency were found to be satisfactory. Compared to the encapsulated extract, the free roselle extract better inhibited Staphylococcus aureus (s. aureus), Salmonella typhimurium (S. typhimurium), and Escherichia coli (E.coli). During storage until day 20, these bacteria did not grow in the free or encapsulated extract groups. However, S. aureus appeared in the free extract group from day 25 and the encapsulated extract group from day 20. Roselle extract has antimicrobial properties that can improve the quality and safety of beef sausage during storage.

Evaluation of Antifungal Activity of Psidium guajava (Guava) Leaf Extracts

Aims: This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of four Psidium guajava leaf extracts against three strains of Candida albicans and a strain of Cryptococcus neoformans. Study Design: Experiment-observational study. Place and Duration of Study: P. guajava leaves were collected from specific areas in Regions Three and Four in Guyana; and the preparation of the leaf extracts and the treatment against the fungi were performed in two laboratories at the University of Guyana from August 2022-September 2023. Methodology: P. guajava leaves were washed with water, air-dried at room temperature, and ground in a disinfected food mixer. Extracts were prepared by soaking the ground leaves in different solvents, and then using the rotary evaporator to reduce the solutions and obtain crude extracts. Filter paper discs were prepared and allowed to soak in various concentrations of the crude extracts. The discs were then subjected to antifungal susceptibility testing on Potato Dextrose agar seeded with an appropriate fungus according to Clinical Laboratory Standards Institutes guidelines. The plates were incubated and the zone of inhibition (ZOIs) was measured. Results: P. guajava leaves were effective against all four strains of fungi evaluated. The largest ZOI was observed for C. neoformans (25 mm) with the ethyl acetate extract at 100 mg/mL concentration. Large ZOI was also observed for the three strains of C. albicans (10-15 mm). For one of the C. albicans strains, a ZOI significantly higher than the antifungal agents (ketoconazole and fluconazole) was observed with the P. guajava ethyl acetate extract at 100 mg/mL. Conclusion: It can be concluded that P. guajava leaves have antifungal activity against C. albicans and C. neoformans, potentially greater than current antifungal agents like ketoconazole and fluconazole.

Investigation of impact of Calotropis procera extract for properties of mild steel in acidic mediums

Mild steel, widely used in gas and oil pipelines, is recognized for its remarkable capacity to absorb both internal and external energy, as well as its high tensile strength. Despite these attributes, the constant exposure to corrosive toxic substances within these pipelines poses a significant challenge. Over time, corrosion weakens the steel’s resilience to impact and increases the likelihood of failure or explosion due to the buildup of fluid pressure. To mitigate this issue, we explored an eco-friendly approach by introducing natural, non-toxic additives derived from the plant Calotropis procera (CP). The goal was to restore some of the steel's lost energy absorption capacity and enhance its resistance to corrosion and fracture.To test the effectiveness of Calotropis procera extract, we conducted weight-loss experiments using API 5L X70 steel in a solution containing 1 mol sulfuric acid and oil. We varied the concentration of CP plant extract in the solution, using 5%, 7%, 10%, and 13% to evaluate its corrosion inhibition properties. Surface examination was carried out using optical microscopy, which confirmed a corrosion inhibition rate of 50% in the CP + H₂SO₄ solution. To further investigate the mechanical performance, we performed Charpy impact tests in the same acidic environment with CP concentrations of 5%, 7%, and 10%. The results revealed that at a 10% concentration of plant extract, the steel exhibited an absorbed impact energy of 278 J, with a corresponding resilience value of 348.325 J/cm². These findings demonstrate the potential of Calotropis procera extract as an effective, sustainable solution for improving the durability of steel used in corrosive environments.

A potential role of a special type of abortive seeds in Cunninghamia lanceolata: promoting the growth of healthy seedlings in active aluminum ions-rich soil

Background and aims“Astringent seed” is a type of abortive seed frequently observed in Chinese fir (Cunninghamia lanceolata). It is widely recognized but poorly understood for its underlying causes. This study investigates the potential of astringent seeds to alleviate the toxic effects of active aluminum ions.MethodsThis study involved treating seeds and seedlings with two distinct concentrations of astringent seeds water extracts under the aluminum ion stress. Then the germination of seeds and growth of seedlings were evaluated and compared.ResultsUnder aluminum stress, both seed germination and seedling growth were notably inhibited. Treatment with a low-concentration of the extract significantly alleviated this inhibition. Root elongation in the seedlings increased by 36.95% compared to the control group, and the aluminum ion accumulation at the root tips was reduced by 38.89% relative to the aluminum-stressed group. This treatment also normalized the levels of malondialdehyde (MDA) in the roots and leaves, enhanced the activities of antioxidative enzymes such as superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT), and restored the levels of endogenous hormones including gibberellin (GA3), indole-3-acetic acid (IAA), methyl jasmonate (Ja-ME), and abscisic acid (ABA). Furthermore, the low-concentration of the extract positively impacted the disorganized chloroplast structures. In contrast, a high-concentration of the extract failed to revert most of these stress indicators.ConclusionLow concentrations of astringent seed water extract effectively alleviate the inhibitory effects of aluminum ions on seed and seedling. This implies that in natural environments, the proximity of healthy seeds to astringent seeds could potentially enhance their growth.

Evaluation of Sedative activity of Cannabis Sativa in mice

Background: Cannabis sativa Linn. (Family: Cannabaceae) is commonly cultivated in Bangladesh in moist areas such as riverbanks, lakes, canals, and roadsides. The leaves of this plant are traditionally used to treat insomnia, depression, and neurodegenerative diseases. Objective: The study's objective is to investigate the sedative effects and phytochemical composition of the Cannabis sativa species in Nigeria. Methods: The elevated plus maze was used to assess the sedative effect of various fractions of aqueous methanol extracts of Cannabis sativa at a dosage of 100 mg/kg in mice. Comparisons were made between the sedative action of the extract and diazepam, which was used as the positive control. Additionally, acute toxicity was also evaluated during the assessment. Results: During the elevated plus-maze test, various parameters such as the number of entries in open arms and the number of entries in closed arms were recorded. The administration of different fractions of aqueous methanol extracts of Cannabis sativa resulted in a significant increase (p < 0.001) in the time spent in and the number of entries into open arms compared to the control group. Conclusion: The findings suggest that various concentrations of water-methanol extracts from Cannabis sativa exhibit sedative effects that are superior to those of the control (diazepam), supporting the use of this plant in traditional medicine. Further research should be conducted to investigate the active components of Cannabis sativa and understand the mechanism of its effects before proceeding to clinical trials.

Ruta graveolens Plant Extract as a Green Corrosion Inhibitor for 304 SS in 1 M HCl: Experimental and Theoretical Studies

This study evaluated the corrosion inhibitory effects of Ruta graveolens leaf extract for 304 stainless steel in 1 M HCl. The analysis of the leaf extract using HPLC indicated that the primary compounds present in the leaf extract were rutin, caffeic acid, p-coumaric acid, and apigenin. The inhibition efficiency (IE%) of the extract was studied using weight loss, potentiodynamic polarization, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), and computational simulation (density functional theory, DFT). The effects of the inhibitor concentration and solution temperature were investigated. The results indicated that the IE% increased for increasing concentrations of the extract, while the reverse was true with increasing temperatures. At 25 °C and a 600 ppm extract concentration, the results indicated a maximum inhibition efficiency of 95%, 98%, and 96% by weight loss, potentiodynamic polarization, and EIS techniques, respectively. SEM observations showed a significant change in the surface morphology of the 304 SS with and without the addition of the inhibitor compound. At all temperatures, the adsorption of the inhibitor components onto the 304 SS surface was found to follow the Langmuir isotherm model, and the inhibition process was governed by physical adsorption. Furthermore, chemical interactions between the inhibitor and the 304 SS steel surface were elucidated via density functional theory (DFT) calculations.

Anti –Inflammatory Activity of Propolis Trigona sp. Water Extract from North Lombok with Red Blood Cell Membrane Stability Method

Propolis is a bee product that can be used as an anti-inflammatory. Cultivation of propolis-producing bees is also carried out in North Lombok. However, propolis has not been utilized optimally by the people of North Lombok. Apart from that, testing of North Lombok propolis is still limited to the chemical content and antioxidant activity of propolis extracted with ethanol solvent. Therefore, this study aims to determine the activity and effective concentration of North Lombok propolis water extract as an anti-inflammatory using the red blood cell membrane stability method. Groups include control groups such as positive control (diclofenac sodium), negative control (distilled water), and test groups (propolis water extract concentrations of 10%, 12.5%, 15%, 17.5%, 20%, 22.5%, 25%, 27.5%, and 30%). In The first step human blood was centrifuged of human blood, and then part of the red blood cells (sediment) was taken and saline was added to obtain a red blood cell suspension. Next, mixing the test solution was carried out in the order of 0.5 ml of red blood cell suspension, then 0.5 ml of extract was added (0.1% w/v Na-diclofenac solution in the positive control, distilled water in the negative control), 1 mL of buffer solution and 2 mL of hyposaline solution, then homogenized. Each group was incubated at 37°C for 30 minutes, then centrifuged for 10 minutes at 3000 rpm. The supernatant was taken, and the absorbance was read with a UV-Vis spectrophotometer at 560 nm. Next, the percentage value of red blood cell hemolysis protection was calculated. The data obtained were tested statistically using One-way ANOVA and post-hoc (LSD) tests SPSS version 29. The results showed that propolis water extract concentrations were 10%, 12.5%, 15%, 17.5%, 20%, 22.5%, 25%, 27.5%, and 30% have anti-inflammatory activity because they can increase the stability of the red blood cell membrane with a percentage of hemolysis protection of respectively 57.92%, 59.99%, 60.99%, 61.99%, 64.31%, 69.59%, 75.07%, 79.77% and 84.45%. Propolis water extract concentrations of 10%, 12.5%, 15%, 17.5%, 20%, 22.5%, and 25% had anti-inflammatory effects that were not significantly different from the positive control (p>0.05). The 27.5 % and 30% concentrations had a higher percent hemolysis protection value than the positive control (p<0.05).

Investigation of Chemical Composition and Biological Activity of Salix aegyptiaca L. Roots

The root of Salix aegyptiaca L. was extracted using their yield percentage, total condensed tannin concentration, antimicrobial, antioxidant activity and to determine chemical composition by LC-MS/MS. The root extraction was carried out together with water, ethanol and methanol. Accelerated solvent extraction (ASE), conventional extraction (CE), and microwave extraction (ME) were the extraction methods applied during the investigation. The LC-MS/MS methanol extract was used to detect phenolics. The antioxidant activities and total condensed tannin concentrations of root extracts have been done by UV-visible spectroscopy from 517 to 580 nm, severally. The disk diffusion method was used for antimicrobial activity. The maximum extraction yield (17.2%) was obtained in methanol by the ASE technique whereas, the conventional extraction technique obtained the minimum extraction efficiency (9.1%). By triplicate measurement, the total condensed tannin analysis result was found 35.14 mg/L. Using the ASE technique, the methanol extract was the maximum inhibitory zone (26 mm) against Candida albicans ATCC 10231. However, in water extract by conventional extraction, a minimum inhibitory zone (11 mm) was obtained against Staphylococcus aureus Cowan 1. The highest and lowest DPPH scavenging activity was determined in methanol (ASE) (98.8%) and ethanol (97.5%) extract respectively. The maximum amounts of quinic acid (63895 µg/g) were discovered using LC-MS/MS.

EVALUATION OF AN ANTI-DANDRUFF SHAMPOO INCORPORATING ETHANOL EXTRACT FROM CORN SILK (ZEA MAYS L.) AGAINST CANDIDA ALBICANS FUNGUS: FORMULATION AND ACTIVITY ASSESSMENT

Objective: The aim of this study was to investigate the effectiveness of corn silk (Zea mays L.) extract as an antifungal ingredient in shampoo formulation for treating dandruff caused by Candida albicans. Methods: Plant identification, sampling, preparation of simplisia, phytochemical screening, simplisia characterization, ethanol extraction of corn silk, and the formulation of shampoos with extract concentrations of 5%, 10%, and 15%, alongside blank and positive controls. The formulations underwent physical evaluation, irritation testing, and antifungal activity testing using the disc diffusion method. Results: The corn silk shampoo formulations were stable during storage, non-irritating, was in thick liquid form with yellowish to brown colour, corn scent, had pH between 5.0-5.8, foaming capacity at 10.3-13.0 cm, with the viscocity ranging 1967-2224 cPs, means it met the required standards for shampoo formulation and characterization. Antifungal testing revealed inhibition zone diameters of 0 mm for the blank (F0), 7.87 mm for F1 (5%), 9.46 mm for F2 (10%), 15.89 mm for F3 (15%), and 18.71 mm for the positive control (C+), with a one-way ANOVA test indicating a significant difference compared to the negative control. Conclusion: Corn silk extract could be effectively formulated into an antifungal shampoo, with the 15% concentration being the most effective against Candida albicans, highlighting its potential as a natural ingredient for anti-dandruff shampoos.