Nut Extract Research Articles

Photobiomodulation therapy inhibits oral submucous fibrosis in mice

ObjectivesOral submucous fibrosis (OSMF) is a chronic inflammatory disease and a potentially malignant oral disorder. However, the best therapeutic treatment for OSMF remains uncertain. Our previous study showed that photobiomodulation (PBM) therapy and forskolin could reduce arecoline‐induced fibrosis reactions via the cAMP pathway. The present study aimed to establish an animal model of areca nut extract (ANE)‐induced OSMF and to evaluate the therapeutic potential of PBM and forskolin for ANE‐induced OSMF.Subjects and methodsThe mice were divided into five groups. The buccal tissues were harvested for histomorphological analysis and immunoblotting.ResultsOur results showed that PBM significantly reduced the development of ANE‐induced OSMF, quantified by changes in submucosal layer thickness and collagen deposition. Additionally, PBM could extensively reduce the protein expression of the fibrotic marker genes alpha‐smooth muscle actin (α‐SMA) and connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) in buccal submucous lesions. However, forskolin treatment significantly decreased the protein expression of fibrotic marker genes but slightly decreased the observed histomorphological changes.ConclusionsWe established an ANE‐induced OSMF mouse model, which also provided a model for the development of a therapeutic treatment for OSMF. The anti‐fibrotic effects of PBM and forskolin may be useful for clinical interventions.

Epitopes with similar physicochemical properties contribute to cross reactivity between peanut and tree nuts

Many individuals with peanut (PN) allergy have severe reactions to tree nuts (TN) such as walnuts or cashews. Although allergenic proteins in TN and PN have overall low identity, they share discrete sequences similar in physicochemical properties (PCP) to known IgE epitopes. Here, PCP-consensus peptides (cp, 13 aa and 31 aa) were identified from an alignment of epitope rich regions of walnut vicilin, Jug r 2, leader sequence (J2LS) and cross-reactive epitopes in the 2S albumins of peanut and synthesized. A peptide similarity search in the Structural Database of Allergenic Proteins (SDAP) revealed a network of peptides similar (low property distance, PD) to the 13 aa cp (13cp) in many different plant allergens. Peptides similar to the 13cp in PN and TN allergens bound IgE from sera of patients allergic to PN and TN in peptide microarray analysis. The 13cp was used to produce a rabbit consensus peptide antibody (cpAB) that detected proteins containing repeats similar to the 13cp in western blots of various nut extracts, in which reactive proteins were identified by mass spectrometry. The cpAB bound more specifically to allergens and nut extracts containing multiple repeats similar to the 13 cp, such as almond (Pru du 6), peanut (Ara h 2) and walnut (Jug r 2). IgE binding to various nut extracts is inhibited by recombinant J2LS sequence and synthetic 31cp. Thus, several repeated sequences similar to the 13cp are bound by IgE. Multiple similar repeats in several allergens could account for reaction severity and clinically relevant cross-reactivity to PN and TN. These findings may help improve detection, diagnostic, and therapeutic tools.

DO FOREST CONCESSIONS BENEFIT EXTRACTIVIST COMMUNITIES? THE CASE OF THE JAMARI NATIONAL FOREST

The study aims to analyze the exploration potential of the main non-timber forest products in the Forest Management Unit number III by the communities around Jamari National Forest. Were used the açaí fruit and Brazilian nuts production data based on the sustainable management plan, as well the Brazilian nut crop production for 2015, 2016 and 2017 reported by traditional communities, "Américo Ventura" and "Linhas 113-119". The data were analyzed and interpreted using economic indicators. As the main results, the productive potential amount of açaí fruit and Brazilian nuts available for harvest in each annual crop is 426,86 tons and 124,13 tons, respectively, providing an estimate of annual income of R$ 79.794,64 and R$ 195.134,63, respectively. For Brazilian nuts, the annually demand raised by the community was approximately 8 tons, from 2015 to 2017. The amount harvested represents 44.77% of the productive capacity of the three units. In addition, the cost-benefit ratio indicates that for each Brazilian Real invested in production the producer receives, on average, R$ 5,72. The Brazilian nut extraction shows to be an interesting activity in terms of production and economic value in both communities, presenting a net annual gain of R$ 1.812,108 per collector, for a total group of 50 extractivists residing in the communities “Américo Ventura” and “Linhas 113-119”, between 2015 to 2017. Thus, it is concluded that there is a great potential for exploration of these products in partnership with the concession forest, contributing to the sustainable development of extractivist communities.

Cytotoxicity and Morphological Effects of Aqueous Areca Nut Crude Extract on L929 Fibroblast Cell Line

Betel quid chewing is a detrimental recreational habit amongst Asians and a risk factor for oral cancer. Arecoline, a component of areca nut (a major constituent of betel quid) is a known carcinogen. However, the effect of areca nut crude extract is not much studied. To evaluate the cytotoxicity and morphologic effects of areca nut aqueous extract on mouse fibroblast cell line (L929). Dried raw areca nut obtained from a local market in Kota Bharu, Kelantan was prepared and suspended in DMEM (Dulbecco’s Modified Eagle’s medium), prior to serial dilution of 1.56, 0.781, 0.39, 0.195, 0.0976, 0.0488, and 0.0244 mg/ml. The L929 was then exposed to each of the aqueous areca nut extract dilutions and incubated at 37 °C for 24, 48 and 72 hours. Following incubation, the cytotoxicity level of treated L929 was measured using MTT [3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium] assay. Five highest concentrations of areca nut extract showed significantly decreased L929 cell viability (1.56, 0.781, 0.39, 0.195, 0.0976 mg/ml) for all incubation periods compared to untreated cells (p<0.05). The IC50 values of aqueous areca nut extract on L929 were 0.1516, 0.1040, and 0.09136 mg/ml at 24, 48 and 72 hours, respectively. The L929 cell showed altered morphology when cultured in the extract for 24 hours. Higher concentrations of the areca nut aqueous extract is cytotoxic to L929. Prolonged exposure to the extract reduced the IC50 value. Investigation on the role of areca nut in cell proliferation could be further undertaken to assess its association with oral cancer.
 
 
 
 Keywords: areca nut, L929, mouse fibroblast cell line, cytotoxicity, MTT assay

Physical-chemical profile and bioactive compounds of water-soluble baru extract (Dipteryx alata Vogel)

The objective of this work was to prepare a hydrosoluble base extract of baru nut and to evaluate the physical and chemical stability, as well as the content of bioactive compounds. Three formulations with different proportions of baru:mineral water were prepared: 1:6, 1:8 and 1:10. Baru almonds were purchased from the local market in Rio Verde, GO, Brazil. The extracts were prepared with water, centrifuged, pasteurized, packaged and refrigerated at 5ºC. The pH, titratable acidity, colour parameters, antioxidant activity and total phenolic content of all formulations. Satisfactory levels of the bioactive compounds were found in all the proposed formulations of water soluble extract of baru. The 1:6 formulation presented minor changes throughout the ten days of storage. The processing used in this study was useful for obtaining the water soluble extract of baru.

The Efficacy of Cola acuminata on Gram‐Negative Bacteria

Traditional healers have long used plant‐derived products to prevent or cure infectious diseases. The main reason is that these natural products may contain antimicrobial agents that are effective against drug‐resistant bacteria. The Bizzy nut is a “cure‐all” herbal medicine that is useful for many medical purposes, such as removal of poisons from the body; birth control; control of diabetes; weight loss; and contains antimicrobial activity. Previously, we reported on the antimicrobial property of the natural product, Bizzy nut, in gram‐positive bacteria. In this study, we extended this analysis to gram‐negative organisms. The antimicrobial activity of an acetone extract (Biz‐3) of Bizzy nut was determined using the agar well diffusion method and the MIC assay. We observed that a concentration between 30ug/mL to 50ug/mL Bizzy nut was effective in killing gram‐negative organisms. Our data demonstrate that gram‐positive organisms, such as Staphylococcus aureus, was 5–6‐times more potent towards the Bizzy nut extract. The order of potency of the organisms examined is Klebsiella pneumoniae > Escherichia coli > Enterobacter aerogenes. This study suggests that Bizzy nut contains selective antimicrobial activity.

In vitro Quantification of Collagen and Snail1 Gene Expression in Experimentally Induced Fibrosis by Arecoline and Commercial Smokeless Tobacco Products.

Introduction:Extracellular matrix component derangement is the major event in pathogenesis of Oral submucous fibrosis. Many studies have elaborated the alteration of the matrix components at a cellular and genetic level. However elaborate quantification of the components with varying concentrations of Areca nut extract and commercial tobacco products have not been done so far. Materials and Methods:Primary culture of tissues sourced during crown lengthening procedures were used for establishment of fibroblast monoculture and fibroblast / keratinocyte co-culture. Extracts of areca nut, commercial smokeless tobacco products (gutkha and haans) and control CCl4 were tested at concentrations ranging from 20 μL, 40 μL, 80 μL, 160 μL, 320 μL and time intervals of 12, 24, 48, 72 hours. Collagen quantification by spectrophotometry and SNAI1 gene expression study were done. Results:Extract of areca nut was found to show increased collagen production than commercial tobacco products and closely similar values to CCL4. Kruskal Wallis test was used to analyse the difference in collagen obtained. The mean values of collagen obtained in co-culture were lesser than those obtained in the fibroblast monoculture. SNAI1 gene expression was negative in both the culture experiments. Conclusion:Areca nut extract was found to be more potent as an individual agent. Commercial smokeless tobacco products Gutka and Hans exhibited increased collagen production at higher concentration. These findings further steps up the persuasive ill effects of tobacco products. Negative SNAI1 gene expression was corroborated to lack of extracellular environment in the co coculture experiment.

Cytotoxic Effects of Betel Quid and Areca Nut Aqueous Extracts on Mouse Fibroblast, Human Mouth-Ordinary-Epithelium 1 and Human Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma Cell Lines.

Background:Betel quid chewing is more common among the older generation in rural areas of Malaysia. Oral cancer in Asia has been associated with the habit of chewing betel quid and areca nut. Objective: This study aims to investigate the cytotoxic effects of betel quid and areca nut extracts on the fibroblast (L929), mouth-ordinary-epithelium 1 (MOE1) and oral squamous cell carcinoma (HSC-2) cell lines. Methods:L929, MOE1 and HSC-2 cells were treated with 0.1, 0.2 and 0.4 g/ml of betel quid and areca nut extracts for 24, 48 and 72 h. MTT assay was performed to assess the cell viability. Results:Both extracts, regardless of concentration, significantly reduced the cell viability of L929 compared with the control (P<0.05). Cell viability of MOE1 was significantly enhanced by all betel quid concentrations compared with the control (P<0.05). By contrast, 0.4 g/ml of areca nut extract significantly reduced the cell viability of MOE1 at 48 and 72 h of incubation. Cell viability of HSC-2 was significantly lowered by all areca nut extracts, but 0.4 g/ml of betel quid significantly increased the cell viability of HSC-2 (P<0.05). Conclusion:Areca nut extract is cytotoxic to L929 and HSC-2, whereas the lower concentrations of areca nut extract significantly increased the cell viability of MOE1 compared to the higher concentration and control group. Although betel quid extract is cytotoxic to L929, the same effect is not observed in MOE1 and HSC-2 cell lines. Further investigations are needed to clarify the mechanism of action.

Processing, characterization and stability of Brazil nut (Bertholletia excelsa) extract

The aim of this work was to obtain Brazil-soluble Brazil nut extract on a pilot scale, to determine the physical-chemical, microbiological, sensory and rheological characteristics of the products obtained and to determine the microbiological, physical-chemical and physical stability of the extract in presence and absence light and preservatives. This is a quantitative study, carried out in the laboratory. Extracts were characterized in terms of physicochemical (proximate composition, mineral profile, pH, titratable acidity, color), rheological (apparent viscosity, flow index, consistency coefficient), microbiological (yeast and molds, Salmonella sp., coliforms at 35ºC and at 45ºC and coagulase positive Staphylococcus), and sensory (odor, color, taste, global impression, buying intention) parameters. Furthermore, the effect of the addition of preservatives (500 mg/L citric acid, 0.15% w:v sodium benzoate and 0.1% w:v potassium sorbate) and of the exposure to light on the physicochemical (pH, titratable acidity), physical (color variation) and microbiological stabilities throughout storage were assessed. The extracts had high energy content, due to its high protein and fat contents, besides being a valuable source of selenium. The extracts were characterized as non-Newtonian pseudoplastic fluids, and were well accepted in sensory analysis, with up to 60% of the consumers indicating willingness to buy the product. The presence of preservatives at least doubled the shelf-life of the products, from 9 to up to 21 days. The incidence of light had no effect in the stability of the extracts.

Chemical characterization, antioxidant evaluation, and antidiabetic potential of Pinus gerardiana (Pine nuts) extracts.

Methanolic and ethyl acetate extracts of pine nuts were evaluated for in vitro antioxidant and inhibition of alpha-amylase activities. Pine nut extracts were orally administered to alloxan monohydrate-induced diabetes in mice at 250, 500, and 750mg/kg. Both extracts showed a significant antioxidant and inhibition of alpha-amylase activities. Animal studies showed a decline in fasting blood glucose, hyperlipidemia, and weight loss in diabetic mice. The administration of plant extracts decreased the blood glucose level during the oral glucose tolerance test. Histopathological examination showed a decrease in alloxan-induced lesions in the pancreas, liver, and kidney of animals treated with pine nut extracts. Furthermore, pine nut extract ameliorated oxidative stress-induced hepatotoxicity in diabetic mice. The presence of quercetin, gallic acid, vanillic acid, benzoic acid, syringic acid, m-coumaric acid, and other phenolic compounds might be related to hypoglycemic, alpha-amylase inhibitory, antioxidant, and antihyperlipidemic potential of pine nut extracts. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: Dry fruits are rich in dietary nutrients, minerals, and phytochemicals that can be used to treat and prevent lifestyle disease. Pine nuts are edible and have economic importance in addition to several traditional uses such as diuretic, antiseptic, expectorant, antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal, antihypertensive, and antineuralgic properties. This study was conducted to investigate the pine nut extracts for their antioxidant and antidiabetic potentials using in vitro methods and animal disease model. The findings of the present study suggest that the extracts of Pine nuts may be helpful in treating hyperglycemia during diabetes and prevent its complications such as hepatic damage, nephrotoxicity, weight loss, and hyperlipidemia.

ANTIOXIDANT AND CYTOTOXIC ACTIVITIES OF ARECA CATECHU SEED EXTRACT IN SWISS ALBINO MICE USING EAC CELL LINE IN DIFFERENT CULTURE MEDIUM

Objective: Areca nut is the dried ripe seeds of Areca catechu, belonging to family Palmae. Areca nut contains a number of alkaloids, belonging to pyridine and piperidine groups, derived from amino acid lysine. Arecoline a nicotinic acid-based alkaloid present which exerts sialagogue property. But the habit of chewing marketed gutka may cause oral leukoplakia, sometimes lead to squamous cell carcinoma. However, Based on the phytochemical compounds present, it is predicted that it must show antioxidant and may show cytotoxic activities.&#x0D; Methods: The antioxidant activity (nitrite scavenging and hydrogen peroxide scavenging) and cytotoxic activity in two different medium were checked in EAC cell line using the swiss albino mice model.&#x0D; Results: The study was also postulated an idea about the qualitative and quantitive analysis of Areca catechu. The plant extract showed good Nitrite and Hydrogen peroxide scavenging activity. The cytotoxicity study conducted in swiss albino mice, cell viability and IC50 value was checked. The cytotoxic activity of different concentrations of different fractions of plant extract was checked in two different medium, i.e., PBS and RPMI 1640. IC50 values for following fractions which were studied in PBS; as, 91.73±73 (µg/ml), 183±36.24 (µg/ml), 53.74±1.562 (µg/ml) for crude ethanolic extract, alkaloid fraction and flavonoid fraction respectively. IC50 value in RPMI 1640 medium obtained as; 44.18±1.09µg/ml, 54.27±0.2279µg/ml and 51.24±2.461µg/ml for crude ethanolic extract, Alkaloid and Flavonoid fraction, respectively.&#x0D; Conclusion: Areca nut extract showed good scavenging activity depending on concentration. Relatively RPMI 1640 medium showed better cytotoxic activity than other mediums.

STANDARISASI PARAMETER SPESIFIK EKSTRAK METANOL BIJI KEBIUL (Caesalpinia Bonduc L.) SEBAGAI BAHAN BAKU OBAT HERBAL TERSTANDAR

The determination of specific parameters standardization of knicker nut (Caesalpinia BonducL.) methanol extract as the standardized herbal medicine raw materials has been carried out to ensure the quality improvement of traditional medicines and the efficacy of the plant. The purpose of this research is to determine the specific parameters of knicker nut extract so that it can be consumed as herbal medicines that have been scientifically tested. The knicker nut extract was obtained from the extraction employing the maceration method with methanol as the solvent. Specific parameters testing included extract identity, extract organoleptic, dissolved compound in certain solvents, along with extract chemical test. The results of extract identity testing show that the Latin name is CaesalpiniaBonducL. with the nut as the used part of the plant. The organoleptic test reveals that the plant is in the form of thick extract, blackish-brown in color, bitter, has pungent smell/typical smell of knicker nut, contains water-soluble compound of 10.33% with the standard deviation ±1.154707755, N-hexane-soluble compound of 3.33% with the standard deviation ±1.154707755, and methanol-soluble compound of 17.33% with the standard deviation ±3.511886957. Moreover, the flavonoids wavelengths are 382 nm (band I) and 262 nm (band II).

Antidiabetic effect and glucose tolerance of areca nut (Areca catechu) seed ethanol extract on alloxan-induced diabetic male rats

Areca catechu fruit (Areca nut) is one component of betel chewing. There is an assumption that the antidiabetic effect of chewing betel is sourced from areca nut. This study aims to determine the anti-hyperglycemic effect and glucose tolerance of ethanol extract of areca nut (Areca catechu) seed in diabetic rats. Old Areca nut fruit was obtained from a garden in the Depok region, the suburb of Jakarta. Areca nut seeds were made into a fine powder, then macerated by using 70% ethanol at room temperature based on the Harbone method. Male rats were eligible for the trial; after acclimatization, rats were made diabetic by using alloxan. The rats for this trial were divided into 6 groups. Each of groups consisted of 5 rats. Glibenclamide was used as a positive control for anti-diabetic, and acarbose was used for glucose tolerance test, as normal control was given distilled water, while negative control was used 1% CMC Na, namely a solution suspending agent for test preparation. Areca nut seed extract was given with 3 types of doses, namely low, medium and high doses, namely 22.5 mg; 45 mg and 180 mg per 200 gr body weight (BW) rats, respectively. For measure blood, sugar levels were used as a glucometer tool. The result of this study showed that on 14 days of given test preparation, the statistical results with ANOVA test and Kruskal-Wallis test showed that medium doses of areca nut seed extract had the same anti-diabetic effect and glucose tolerance with positive control and were significantly different to negative controls. (P≤0.05). While on the low and high dose was not significantly different from negative controls (P≥0.05). Conclusion of this study, areca nut seed was very potential for antidiabetic and glucose tolerance.

The Effect of Administration of Extract from Areca Nut Seeds (Areca Catechu L) on the Estradiol and Estrus Cycle Balb/C Female Rats

Population control is very important for individual and national welfare. Although various synthetic contraceptive agents are available, their use is associated with severe side effects. Therefore, an approach is taken to identify new antifertility agents from natural sources. This study was conducted to determine the effect of areca nut extract on estradiol levels and the estrus cycle of female balb / c mice. The experimental animal models used were fifteen adult female balb / c mice, aged 8-12 weeks, weight 20-40 g and induced for 1 week with water extract of areca nut with a dose of 1 g / 200 g body weight of mice (K1), 2 g / 200 g of body weight of mice (K2) and distilled water in the control group (K0). The estrus cycle was identified by a daily assessment of the relative ratio of nucleated epithelial cells, cornified squamous epithelial cells and leukocytes found at the time of vaginal swabs for 15 days continuously. At the proestrus stage blood is taken from the tail. Serum estradiol levels were determined by ELISA technique. There was a decrease in serum estradiol levels in the treatment group 1 (K1) 1.9 times compared to the control group (K0) and decreased estradiol levels in the treatment group 2 (K2) 5.29 times compared to the control group (K0). Changes in the duration of the estrus cycle occurred in treatment group 1 (K1) to be elongated and treatment group 2 (K2) became non-estrus, while the control group (K0) did not change the duration of the estrus cycle (normal). The decrease in serum estradiol levels affects the estrus cycle of mice (P = 0,000). The administration of areca nut extract has the effect of reducing serum estradiol levels and disrupting the duration of the estrous cycle of female balb / c mice. This finding has important implications for the development of contraception in women.

Research on CV. Rena Soap Nut Detergent as Future Organic Detergent in Indonesia

Soap nut (especially Sapindus rarak De Candole, can also be S. mukorossi) or also known as rerek, lamuran or lerak is a plant that is known for traditional detergent. Batik is usually recommended to be washed soap nut because it is considered as the most suitable washing agent to maintain its quality (batik color). Soap nut seeds contain saponins, a toxic alkaloid, these saponins produce foam and function as a washing agent, and can also be used as a cleaner for various kitchen utensils, floors, and even bathe and clean pets. This research aims to compare the quality of CV Rena batik soap nut detergent with batik soap nut produced by other industries. In this experiment include color analysis, odor analysis, pH analysis, density analysis and viscosity analysis of tested batik soap nut detergent. The results of the five sensory organoleptic tests found that CV detergents were compared with three competitor manufacturers batik soap nut detergent (detergent A, detergent B and detergent C) has a homogeneous shape, distinctive color and distinctive odor. While for the pH test the CV Renault detergent results were pH = 3.2, detergent A pH = 3.8, detergent B pH = 5.9 and finally detergent C pH = 4.2. For the density test, the detergent density of CV Rena = 1.0386 gr/ml, detergent A = 1.0255 gr/ml, detergent B = 1.0554 gr/ml and detergent C = 1, 0068 gr/ml. And for the viscosity test, the result of CV Renas detergent = 1.61 cp, detergent A = 1.45 cp, detergent B = 5.86 cp and detergent C = 1.15 cp. The trial results obtained in organoleptic tests such as color, odor and shape are in accordance with the Liquid Detergent Quality Requirements SNI 06-4075-1996, while the pH and density are not in accordance with the existing quality standards. Suggestions for this research are to use more soap nut extracts so that the density produced will be thicker and in accordance with the existing SNI and use natural ingredients which have not too acidic properties to conform to the established SNI.

PHYTOCHEMICAL ANALYSIS OF SEED OF MEDICINAL HERB, ARECA CATECHU LINN. AND EVALUATION OF IN-VITRO ANTHELMINTIC ACTIVITY OF ARECOLINE IN AQUEOUS AND ORGANIC EXTRACTS

The objective of the study was to extract the active constituent of Areca catechu Linn (Arecaceae) and evaluate the anthelmintic effect of arecoline. liquid liquid extraction was used to extract the arecoline from areca nut. polar and nonpolar solvents were used for extraction. The anthelmintic activity was performed by in vitro studies using adult earthworm (Pheretima posthuma). The anthelminitic test was performed for both extracts and the results compared by using piperazine citrate as reference standard. Water and Hexane there used as polar and non polar solvent for extraction. The hexane extract produced maximum anthelmintic activity with minimum concentration.The hexane and aqueous extracts of nuts of areca catechu exhibited significant anthelmintic activity, as evidenced by decreased paralyzing time and death time. The results support the use of areca catechu as an anthelmintic agent.

Comparative Study on Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Activities of Red and Brown Species of Areca catechu L. Nut Extracts

Comparative Study on Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Activities of Red and Brown Species of Areca catechu L. Nut Extracts

Antimicrobial Activities of Irvingia Gabonesis Leaf and Cyperus Esculentus Extracts on Some Selected Isolates

The rise of antibiotic resistant microorganism is one of the severe problems in health care system of the world and infectious diseases are the second most serious causes of death worldwide. Thus, it is essential to find new compounds that have antimicrobial properties by screening plant species to detect those that can synthesize new drugs [1]. Thus, this study is carried out to determine the antimicrobial activity of bush mango and tiger nut extracts on some selected microorganisms.

IgE cross-reactivity measurement of cashew nut, hazelnut and peanut using a novel IMMULITE inhibition method

Background Tree nut-allergic individuals are often sensitised towards multiple nuts and seeds. The underlying cause behind a multi-sensitisation for cashew nut, hazelnut, peanut and birch pollen is not always clear. We investigated whether immunoglobulin E antibody (IgE) cross-reactivity between cashew nut, hazelnut and peanut proteins exists in children who are multi-allergic to these foods using a novel IMMULITE®-based inhibition methodology, and investigated which allergens might be responsible. In addition, we explored if an allergy to birch pollen might play a role in this co-sensitisation for cashew nut, hazelnut and peanut. Methods Serum of five children with a confirmed cashew nut allergy and suffering from allergic symptoms after eating peanut and hazelnut were subjected to inhibition immunoassays using the IMMULITE® 2000 XPi. Serum-specific IgE (sIgE) to seed storage allergens and pathogenesis-related protein 10 (PR10) allergens were determined and used for molecular multicomponent allergen correlation analyses with observed clinical symptoms and obtained inhibition data. Results IgE cross-reactivity was observed in all patients. Hazelnut extract was a strong inhibitor of cashew nut sIgE (46.8%), while cashew nut extract was less able to inhibit hazelnut extract (22.8%). Peanut extract showed the least inhibition potency. Moreover, there are strong indications that a birch pollen sensitisation to Bet v 1 might play a role in the observed symptoms provoked upon ingestion of cashew nut and hazelnut. Conclusions By applying an adjusted working protocol, the IMMULITE® technology can be used to perform inhibition assays to determine the risk of sIgE cross-reactivity between very different food components.

Patterns of biodiversity response along a gradient of forest use in Eastern Amazonia, Brazil.

The preservation of tropical forests is increasingly at risk, including forests located within human-modified landscapes that retain high conservation value. People modify and interact with these landscapes through a wide range of uses. However, our knowledge of how different forest uses affect biodiversity is limited. Here, we analyse the responses of different taxa to four distinct categories of forest management, namely old-growth forest, Brazil nut extraction areas, reduced impact logging areas, and eucalyptus plantations. Within six independent replicates of each category, we sampled three taxa (fruit-feeding butterflies, dung beetles, and trees) in eastern Amazonia. Forests under moderate use (Brazil nut extraction and reduced-impact logging) had similar, albeit slightly lower, diversity levels relative to old-growth forests, while communities in plantations were significantly less diverse. Only 4%, 20%, and 17%, of the sampled butterfly, dung beetle, and tree species, respectively, were restricted to old-growth forests. This study provides further empirical evidence of the importance of old-growth forest conservation in the context of human-modified landscapes. It also suggests that landscape matrices integrating forest uses at varying intensities are well positioned to reconcile biodiversity conservation with the production of goods that support local livelihoods.