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Keywords = Thuja orientalis

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23 pages, 3706 KiB  
Article
Vegetation Structure and Habitat Characterization: An Ecological Basis for the Conservation of the Korean Endemic Plant, Taihyun’s Abelia (Zabelia tyaihyonii (Nakai) Hisauti & H.Hara, 1951; Caprifoliaceae)
by Byeong-Joo Park, Tae-Im Heo and Kwang-Il Cheon
Forests 2025, 16(7), 1042; https://doi.org/10.3390/f16071042 - 21 Jun 2025
Viewed by 344
Abstract
Endemic plant species, with their restricted distribution, are vulnerable to extinction due to human activities and environmental change. Monitoring their ecological characteristics and habitat relationships is crucial for conservation. This study examined plant communities to prioritize populations for conserving the Korean endemic species, [...] Read more.
Endemic plant species, with their restricted distribution, are vulnerable to extinction due to human activities and environmental change. Monitoring their ecological characteristics and habitat relationships is crucial for conservation. This study examined plant communities to prioritize populations for conserving the Korean endemic species, Taihyun’s abelia (Zabelia tyaihyonii (Nakai) Hisauti & H.Hara), and to identify threats and strategies for its protection. Vegetation surveys were conducted, classifying communities and analyzing species composition differences. Habitat quality and zeta diversity, assessed using the InVEST model, identified three community types: Quercus dentata–Thuja orientalis (Com. 1), Fraxinus rhynchophylla–Buxus koreana (Com. 2), and Quercus dentata–Carex humilis var. nana (Com. 3). Community classification was supported by a multi-response permutation procedure (p < 0.001) and non-metric multidimensional scaling (R2 = 0.643). Species richness and soil calcium influenced species composition, and habitat quality was moderate (0.5562 ± 0.0294). Com. 1 and Com. 3 showed minimal zeta diversity decline, indicating strong habitat connectivity. However, fluctuations at zeta orders 8–12 suggested localized disturbances. Species turnover instability was linked to urbanization and disturbance. This study, using a diverse set of analytical tools, was able to pinpoint key features of habitat quality and composition associated with Z. tyaihyonii and the anthropogenic factors that will lead to its decline. Our work provides a road map for the conservation of other rare and endemic Korean plant species with similar conservation issues. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Forest Biodiversity)
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12 pages, 1471 KiB  
Article
A Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial (RCT) Evaluating the Efficacy of an Exosome-Containing Plant Extract Formulation for Treating Male Alopecia
by Farahnaz Amini, Jing Ju Teh, Chung Keat Tan, Eugenie Sin Sing Tan and Edmond Siah Chye Ng
Life 2025, 15(3), 500; https://doi.org/10.3390/life15030500 - 20 Mar 2025
Viewed by 4810
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Hair loss affects self-esteem, confidence, and psychological well-being. Exosomes, as molecular carriers of growth factors and active compounds, offer a promising treatment. This study evaluates the efficacy of an exosome formulation containing extracts from two known hair-regenerating plants, Ecklonia cava and [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Hair loss affects self-esteem, confidence, and psychological well-being. Exosomes, as molecular carriers of growth factors and active compounds, offer a promising treatment. This study evaluates the efficacy of an exosome formulation containing extracts from two known hair-regenerating plants, Ecklonia cava and Thuja orientalis (ECPE), for male pattern alopecia. Methods: A randomized controlled trial included 20 male participants with Norwood grade 2–3 androgenetic alopecia who were randomly assigned into two groups, placebo (0.9% sodium chloride) and ECPE, administered bi-weekly across four sessions. Evaluations included hair density measurements, adverse effect tracking, and self-assessments. Results: Most participants (55%) were aged 18 to 35, with 75% reporting hair loss for over a year and 80% noting scalp thinning. The hair counts showed no significant change in the placebo group from baseline to week 16 (Wilcoxon signed-rank test: V = 13.5, p = 0.163), while a significant increase was observed in the ECPE group (V = 0, p = 0.002). Between-group analysis revealed a significant difference in the hair count changes (Wilcoxon rank-sum test: W = 86.5, p = 0.006) with a large effect size (Cliff’s Delta: & = 0.73, 95% CI: 0.41–0.89), with the ECPE group showing higher median hair growth (9.5, IQR = 16.88) compared to the placebo group (1.5, IQR = 3.00). A Bayesian ANCOVA, adjusted for covariates (the father’s scalp hair condition, baseline hair count, and Norwood classification), showed no significant effect of these factors on the outcomes. Conclusions: These findings suggest that ECPE significantly improves hair regrowth compared to the placebo, with no notable adverse effects. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Implications of Bioactive Compounds in Lifelong Disorders)
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18 pages, 11821 KiB  
Article
Peculiarities of Particulate Matter Absorption by Urban Tree Species in the Major Cities of Armenia
by Gayane Nersisyan, Arkadiusz Przybysz, Zhirayr Vardanyan, Hovik Sayadyan, Nelli Muradyan, Manik Grigoryan and Sergey Ktrakyan
Sustainability 2024, 16(23), 10217; https://doi.org/10.3390/su162310217 - 22 Nov 2024
Viewed by 2044
Abstract
Air pollution, including particulate matter (PM), impacts public health in urban areas. Vegetation acts as a natural filter, removing environmental pollution by absorbing large quantities of toxic substances on the foliage. Ambient air pollution problems are real in Armenia’s cities. This article presents [...] Read more.
Air pollution, including particulate matter (PM), impacts public health in urban areas. Vegetation acts as a natural filter, removing environmental pollution by absorbing large quantities of toxic substances on the foliage. Ambient air pollution problems are real in Armenia’s cities. This article presents the results of a study based on field sampling in July 2022 undertaken in urban parks and streets in the Armenian cities of Yerevan, Gyumri, and Vanadzor. The three cities have different climates and geographic conditions. The main research goal was a comparative study of the accumulation of PM by urban greenery. The most widespread tree species were selected for the study in each city: in Yerevan, Platanus orientalis and Quercus robur; in Gyumri, Fraxinus excelsior and Tilia caucasica; and in Vanadzor, Aesculus hippocastanum and Acer pseudoplatanus. The ecological status of trees was assessed through visual observation. Tree species with high PM uptake potential were identified and selected for inclusion in urban greening systems (Platanus orientalis, Fraxinus excelsior, and Quercus robur in Yerevan; Tilia caucasica, Sorbus persica, Fraxinus excelsior, and Populus alba in Grumri; Acer pseudoplatanus, Fraxinus excelsior, Aesculus hippocastanum, and Thuja occidentalis in Vanadzor.). High PM accumulation was found on the leaves of tree species in all of the investigated cities, with the largest amount recorded in Yerevan. In these cities, PM levels were higher in street plantations than in parks. All studied tree species have a high potential for PM absorption, demonstrating strong phytofilter properties. Therefore, they can be effectively used in their typical climatic zones and included in street plantings, gardens, and parks. These results can help urban planners and policymakers make informed decisions about urban greening initiatives to improve air quality and overall wellbeing. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Air, Climate Change and Sustainability)
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19 pages, 3262 KiB  
Article
Evaluating the Efficacy of Plant Extracts in Managing the Bruchid Beetle, Callosobruchus maculatus (Coleoptera: Bruchidae)
by Rasheed Akbar, Brekhna Faheem, Tariq Aziz, Amjad Ali, Asmat Ullah, Imtiaz Ali Khan and Jianfan Sun
Insects 2024, 15(9), 691; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects15090691 - 12 Sep 2024
Cited by 8 | Viewed by 2737
Abstract
An estimated 2000 plant species have been employed for pest control worldwide. The use of these botanical derivatives is thought to be one of the most cost-effective and sustainable options for pest management in stored grain. The present study was designed to assess [...] Read more.
An estimated 2000 plant species have been employed for pest control worldwide. The use of these botanical derivatives is thought to be one of the most cost-effective and sustainable options for pest management in stored grain. The present study was designed to assess the efficacy of five plant extracts viz; Nicotiana tabacum L., Nicotiana rustica L., Azadirachta indica A. Juss., Thuja orientalis L., and Melia azedarach L. against Callosobruchus maculatus L. Plant species extracts were applied at six different concentrations, i.e., 0.5, 1.0, 1.5, 2.0, 2.5, and 3.0% in four replications. The phytochemical analyses of ethanolic extracts of five plant species showed variable amounts of phytochemicals i.e., alkaloids, flavonoids, saponins, diterpenes, phytosterol, and phenols. Total phenolic and flavonoid compounds were also observed. The efficacy of A. indica was highest, characterized by the lowest infestation rate (16.65%), host seed weight loss (7.85%), mean oviposition (84.54), and adult emergence (58.40%). In contrast, T. orientalis was found to be the least effective against C. maculatus, with the highest infestation rate of 25.60%, host seed weight loss of 26.73%, mean oviposition of 117.17, and adult emergence rate of 82.01%. Probit analysis was performed by estimating LC50 and LC90. The toxicity percentages of N. tabacum (LC50 = 0.69%, LC90 = 14.59%), N. rustica (LC50 = 0.98%, LC90 = 22.06%), and A. indica (LC50 = 1.09%, LC90 = 68.52%) were notable in terms of the lower LC50 and LC90 values after the 96-h exposure period against C. maculatus. Repellency was assessed by using the area preference and filter paper method. The repellency of C. maculatus on plant extracts increased with the increasing dose and time, such that it was the highest after 48 h. Likewise, at a 3% concentration, A. indica demonstrated 100.00% (Class-V) repellency followed by N. tabacum (96.00%, Class-V), N. rustica (74%, Class-IV), M. azedarach (70.00%, Class-IV), and T. orientalis (68.00%, Class-IV). Based on the findings of this study, we recommend integrating N. rustica, N. tabacum, A. indica, and M. azedarach for effective management of C. maculatus and highlight the potential of these plant species in the formulation of new biocidal agents. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Formulations of Natural Substances against Insect Pests)
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15 pages, 1921 KiB  
Article
New Data on Phytochemical and Morphophysiological Characteristics of Platycladus orientalis L. Franco and Thuja occidentalis L. Conifer Trees in Polluted Urban Areas of Kazakhstan
by Nurgul Yerezhepova, Meruyert Kurmanbayeva, Nina Terletskaya, Moldir Zhumagul, Marko Kebert, Milena Rašeta, Yusufjon Gafforov, Roza Jalmakhanbetova and Medeu Razhanov
Forests 2024, 15(5), 790; https://doi.org/10.3390/f15050790 - 30 Apr 2024
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 1795
Abstract
The adaptive potential of plants in urban environments, responding to factors like air pollution, electromagnetic radiation, and specific microclimates, remains insufficiently understood. Our study focused on two evergreen Cupressaceae family species, Thuja occidentalis L. and Platycladus orientalis L. Franco, which are commonly found [...] Read more.
The adaptive potential of plants in urban environments, responding to factors like air pollution, electromagnetic radiation, and specific microclimates, remains insufficiently understood. Our study focused on two evergreen Cupressaceae family species, Thuja occidentalis L. and Platycladus orientalis L. Franco, which are commonly found in Kazakhstan’s urban landscapes. Conducted in Almaty, one of Kazakhstan’s most polluted cities, our comparative analysis examined the anatomical features, photosynthetic activity, and secondary metabolite composition of these conifers. Both species exhibited xeromorphic traits, such as submerged stomata, resin passages, and a prominent leaf cuticle. T. occidentalis displayed higher photosynthetic activity values (quantum yield of photosystem II (YII), electron transport rate (ETR), and quantum yield of non-photochemical quenching (Y(NPQ))) than P. orientalis, while P. orientalis exhibited a higher quantum yield of non-regulated energy dissipation in PSII (Y(NO)) values. Chemical analysis revealed 31 components in T. occidentalis and 33 in P. orientalis, with T. occidentalis containing three times more thujone (16.42% and 5.18%, respectively) and a higher monosaccharide content (17.33% and 6.98%, respectively). T. occidentalis also contained 14.53% steroids, whereas P. orientalis showed no steroid presence. The cytotoxic activity of essential oils was determined by the survival of Artemia salina aquatic crustaceans, whereas tested essential oils from both species exhibited acute lethal toxicity to A. salina aquatic crustaceans across all tested concentrations. The connection between physiological traits, adaptation strategies, and cytotoxic effects offers a comprehensive view of the ecological and pharmacological importance of these two observed conifer species, highlighting their diverse roles in urban environments, as well as their potential medical uses. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Forest Ecophysiology and Biology)
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16 pages, 3504 KiB  
Article
Vegetation and Dormancy States Identification in Coniferous Plants Based on Hyperspectral Imaging Data
by Pavel A. Dmitriev, Boris L. Kozlovsky and Anastasiya A. Dmitrieva
Horticulturae 2024, 10(3), 241; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10030241 - 1 Mar 2024
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1755
Abstract
Conifers are a common type of plant used in ornamental horticulture. The prompt diagnosis of the phenological state of coniferous plants using remote sensing is crucial for forecasting the consequences of extreme weather events. This is the first study to identify the “Vegetation” [...] Read more.
Conifers are a common type of plant used in ornamental horticulture. The prompt diagnosis of the phenological state of coniferous plants using remote sensing is crucial for forecasting the consequences of extreme weather events. This is the first study to identify the “Vegetation” and “Dormancy” states in coniferous plants by analyzing their annual time series of spectral characteristics. The study analyzed Platycladus orientalis, Thuja occidentalis and T. plicata using time series values of 81 vegetation indices and 125 spectral bands. Linear discriminant analysis (LDA) was used to identify “Vegetation” and “Dormancy” states. The model contained three to four independent variables and achieved a high level of correctness (92.3 to 96.1%) and test accuracy (92.1 to 96.0%). The LDA model assigns the highest weight to vegetation indices that are sensitive to photosynthetic pigments, such as the photochemical reflectance index (PRI), normalized PRI (PRI_norm), the ratio of PRI to coloration index 2 (PRI/CI2), and derivative index 2 (D2). The random forest method also diagnoses the “Vegetation” and “Dormancy” states with high accuracy (97.3%). The vegetation indices chlorophyll/carotenoid index (CCI), PRI, PRI_norm and PRI/CI2 contribute the most to the mean decrease accuracy and mean decrease Gini. Diagnosing the phenological state of conifers throughout the annual cycle will allow for the effective planning of management measures in conifer plantations. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Tolerance and Response of Ornamental Plants to Abiotic Stress)
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25 pages, 2724 KiB  
Review
Bioenergy and Biopesticides Production in Serbia—Could Invasive Alien Species Contribute to Sustainability?
by Magdalena Pušić, Mirjana Ljubojević, Dejan Prvulović, Radenka Kolarov, Milan Tomić, Mirko Simikić, Srđan Vejnović and Tijana Narandžić
Processes 2024, 12(2), 407; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr12020407 - 18 Feb 2024
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 3025
Abstract
The critical role of energy in contemporary life and the environmental challenges associated with its production imply the need for research and exploration of its novel resources. The present review paper emphasizes the continuous exploitation of non-renewable energy sources, suggesting the transition toward [...] Read more.
The critical role of energy in contemporary life and the environmental challenges associated with its production imply the need for research and exploration of its novel resources. The present review paper emphasizes the continuous exploitation of non-renewable energy sources, suggesting the transition toward renewable energy sources, termed ‘green energy’, as a crucial step for sustainable development. The research methodology involves a comprehensive review of articles, statistical data analysis, and examination of databases. The main focus is biomass, a valuable resource for bioenergy and biopesticide production, highlighting not only its traditional diverse sources, such as agricultural waste and industrial residues, but also non-edible invasive alien plant species. This study explores the utilization of invasive alien species in circular economy practices, considering their role in bioenergy and biopesticide production. The potential conflict between bioproduct acquisition and food sector competition is discussed, along with the need for a shift in approaching non-edible biomass sources. The paper emphasizes the untapped potential of under-explored biomass resources and the necessity for policy alignment and public awareness. Species with a significant potential for these sustainable strategies include Acer negundo L., Ailanthus altisima (Mill.) Swingle., Amorpha fruticosa L., Elaengus angustifolia L., Falopia japonica (Houtt.) Ronse Decr., Hibiscus syriacus L., Koelreuteria paniculata Laxm., Paulownia tomentosa Siebold and Zucc., Partenocissus quenquefolia (L.) Planch., Rhus typhina L., Robinia pseudoacacia L. and Thuja orientalis L. In conclusion, the paper highlights the intertwined relationship between energy, environmental sustainability, and circular economy principles, providing insights into Serbia’s efforts and potential in adopting nature-based solutions for bioenergy and biopesticides acquisition. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Production and Utilization of Biofuels)
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12 pages, 974 KiB  
Article
Evaluation of Insecticidal Potentials of Five Plant Extracts against the Stored Grain Pest, Callosobruchus maculatus (Coleoptera: Bruchidae)
by Rasheed Akbar, Imtiaz Ali Khan, Reem A. Alajmi, Ashraf Ali, Brekhna Faheem, Amjad Usman, Ashraf M. Ahmed, Mohamed El-Shazly, Abid Farid, John P. Giesy and Mourad A. M. Aboul-Soud
Insects 2022, 13(11), 1047; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects13111047 - 13 Nov 2022
Cited by 26 | Viewed by 6219
Abstract
Plant based insecticides are considered among the most economic and ecofriendly chemicals for the protection of plants and stored grains. The cowpea weevil (Callosbruchus maculatus) causes more than 90% damage to sored grains in three to six months. The current study [...] Read more.
Plant based insecticides are considered among the most economic and ecofriendly chemicals for the protection of plants and stored grains. The cowpea weevil (Callosbruchus maculatus) causes more than 90% damage to sored grains in three to six months. The current study investigates insecticidal potentials of five selected botanicals: Melia azedarach, Nicotiana rustica, Azadirachta indica, Nicotiana tabacum and Thuja orientalis. They are explored at six different concentrations (0.5, 1.0, 1.5, 2.0, 2.5 and 3.0%) against C. maculatus and compared to effects of distilled water which is used as a control. Toxicities of 3%(V/V) extracts of N. tabacum, N. rustica, A. indica and T. orientalis against C. maculatus were 100%, 86.11%, 80.56% and 72.22%, respectively. Maximum mortality was caused by N. tabacum and N. rustica (100%), followed by A. indica (82%), whereas minimum mortality was observed in T. orientalis (64%) at 2.5%. Several phytochemicals, alkaloids, saponins, diterphenes, phytosterol, flavonoids and phenols were identified in N. tabacum and N. rustica, while few were present in A. indica. Phytosterol was present in greatest abundance. Saponins were only detected in aqueous extracts of N. rustica and N. tabacum. Taken together, these results indicate the utility of N. tabacum, N. rustica and A. indica as potential botanicals to control pest beetle and cowpea weevil. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Botanical Control of Insect Pests)
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18 pages, 2514 KiB  
Article
Green Synthesis of Silver Nanoparticles for Preparation of Gelatin Films with Antimicrobial Activity
by Xóchitl A. Pérez-Marroquín, Gabriel Aguirre-Cruz, Gieraldin Campos-Lozada, Graciela Callejas-Quijada, Arely León-López, Rafael G. Campos-Montiel, Laura García-Hernández, Abraham Méndez-Albores, Alma Vázquez-Durán and Gabriel Aguirre-Álvarez
Polymers 2022, 14(17), 3453; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym14173453 - 24 Aug 2022
Cited by 9 | Viewed by 3673
Abstract
Silver nanoparticles were successfully synthesized using Thuja orientalis aqueous extract and AgNO3 as a precursor. UV–Vis showed a distinct absorption peak at 424 nm attributed to silver nanoparticles due to their surface plasmon resonance. Atomic absorption analysis reflected an increase in the [...] Read more.
Silver nanoparticles were successfully synthesized using Thuja orientalis aqueous extract and AgNO3 as a precursor. UV–Vis showed a distinct absorption peak at 424 nm attributed to silver nanoparticles due to their surface plasmon resonance. Atomic absorption analysis reflected an increase in the concentration of nanoparticles in relation to the progress of the synthesis, obtaining a peak concentration value of 15.7 mg/L at 50 min. The FTIR spectra revealed the characteristic functional groups of phytomolecules involved in the silver–ion binding process, such as R–O–H (3335 cm−1) O=C–OH (2314 cm−1) and C—C=C (1450 cm−1). At 50 min, zeta potential showed the stability of the nanoparticles with the value of −21.73 mV. TEM micrographs revealed the formation of spherical nanoparticles with an average size of about 85.77 nm. Furthermore, films incorporated with nanoparticles exhibited a Tg from 66.42 °C to 73.71 °C and Tm at 103.31 °C. Films from the G22 formulation presented excellent antibacterial properties inhibiting the growth of Staphylococcus aureus. Thuja orientalis aqueous extract could be a low-cost, eco-friendly, and efficient reducing and capping agent for the synthesis of nanometric-sized Ag particles. Gelatin films with nanoparticles are expected to have high potential as an active food packaging system. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Polymer Applications)
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11 pages, 1615 KiB  
Proceeding Paper
Novel Formula as Mosquito Larvicide
by Faika Hassanein, Osama Awad, Fathallah M. Harraz, Hesham Saeed and Ahmed Hussein
Biol. Life Sci. Forum 2022, 11(1), 54; https://doi.org/10.3390/IECPS2021-12070 - 15 Dec 2021
Viewed by 1806
Abstract
Background: Natural products derived from plants and secondary metabolites from microorganisms are promising in the discovery of synthetic analogs with improved efficacy, potency, and safety. Our study attempts to examine the effect of a new formula as a mosquito larvicide. Methods: Isolation and [...] Read more.
Background: Natural products derived from plants and secondary metabolites from microorganisms are promising in the discovery of synthetic analogs with improved efficacy, potency, and safety. Our study attempts to examine the effect of a new formula as a mosquito larvicide. Methods: Isolation and characterization of prodigiosin and essential oil from Thuja orientalis and purification of PDG. The dose response bioassay, the synergistic effect, and the mode of action are investigated for each preparation. Results: The treatment of the 3rd larva stage of Cx. pipiens reveals that the LC50 of PDG and T. orientalis leaves’ E.O are 39.5 ± 0.341 ppm and 102.9 ± 0.46 ppm, respectively, after 24 h. The combination of LC10 of PDG with LC25 and LC50 of the E.O. shows a synergistic effect resulting in 33.3% and 100% death, respectively. Individual and combination treatment show a reduction in the activity of acetylcholine esterase, total protein, and AChE specific gravity as compared to the untreated 3rd larva stage of Cx. pipiens. PDG and E.O. result in a reduction in midgut pH leading to cellular respiration inhibition as compared to untreaded larvae that show alkaline medium. Conclusions: PDG and the T. orientails leaves’ oil combination show a promising synergistic potency against the 3rd larva stage of Cx. pipiens. Full article
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12 pages, 268 KiB  
Article
Growth Suppression of a Gingivitis and Skin Pathogen Cutibacterium (Propionibacterium) acnes by Medicinal Plant Extracts
by Hyoung-An Choi, Sang-Oh Ahn, Ho-Dong Lim and Geun-Joong Kim
Antibiotics 2021, 10(9), 1092; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics10091092 - 9 Sep 2021
Cited by 11 | Viewed by 3919
Abstract
Propionibacterium acnes, newly reclassified as Cutibacterium acnes, is an anaerobic Gram-positive bacterium causing acne, found mainly on the skin. In addition, P. acnes is responsible for inflammation of the gums (gingivitis) and blood vessels, consequently leading to various diseases in the [...] Read more.
Propionibacterium acnes, newly reclassified as Cutibacterium acnes, is an anaerobic Gram-positive bacterium causing acne, found mainly on the skin. In addition, P. acnes is responsible for inflammation of the gums (gingivitis) and blood vessels, consequently leading to various diseases in the human body. In recent years, the evolution of microorganisms, such as P. acnes, that have become resistant to many commercial antibiotics due to the widespread use of antimicrobial drugs in the treatment of infectious diseases has emerged as a major clinical problem. We here analyzed the potential use of 37 medicinal plant extracts as plausible candidates for treating P. acnes, in terms of total phenolic and flavonoid contents, antioxidants scavenging and antimicrobial activity. Consequently, methanol extracts from 14 medicinal plants showed promising antimicrobial activities against P. acnes. In particular, as the extracts from Chrysosplenium flagelliferum F. and Thuja orientalis L. exhibited distinct antimicrobial activities in both the broth dilution and disc diffusion assay, they could be effectively used as active ingredients for preventing or treating inflammatory periodontal diseases, such as periodontitis. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antimicrobial Activity of Extracts from Plant)
1 pages, 128 KiB  
Abstract
Coniferous Cones as a Forestry Waste Biomass—A Source of Antioxidants
by Tamás Hofmann, Levente Albert, Balázs Bocz, Dániel Bocz and Eszter Visi-Rajczi
Environ. Sci. Proc. 2021, 3(1), 82; https://doi.org/10.3390/IECF2020-07766 - 10 Nov 2020
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 903
Abstract
The cones of conifers are a waste biomass, potentially be utilized for a variety of purposes, including the extraction of bioactive materials, particularly antioxidant polyphenols. In the present work we conducted a comparative analysis of the antioxidant content of selected taxa that are [...] Read more.
The cones of conifers are a waste biomass, potentially be utilized for a variety of purposes, including the extraction of bioactive materials, particularly antioxidant polyphenols. In the present work we conducted a comparative analysis of the antioxidant content of selected taxa that are either common in Hungary or that have not yet been investigated in any great detail (Cedrus atlantica, Larix decidua, Picea abies, Pinus mugo, Pinus nigra, Pinus sylvestris, Pinus wallichiana, Tsuga Canadensis, Tsuga heterophylla, Pseudotsuga menziesii, Chamaecyparis lawsoniana, Taxodium distichum, Thuja occidentalis, Metasequoia glyptostroboides, Thuja orientalis, Cryptomeria Japonica, Cunninghamia lanceolata). A comparison of different maturation stages (green, mature, and opened cones) was carried out for the assigned taxa. Folin-Ciocâlteu total phenol content, ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) and 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assays were used to assess the antioxidant contents. Total antioxidant power was determined by a scoring system that combined the three assay results. For each taxon the overall best results were found for green cones, followed by mature, and opened cones. Taxa with the highest scores were Tsuga Canadensis, Metasequoia glyptostroboides, Chamaecyparis lawsoniana, Cryptomeria Japonica, Thuja orientalis and Picea abies. High-performance liquid chromatographic/tandem mass spectrometric profiling of the polyphenols was completed for selected samples. Results provide a basis for future bioactivity testing of these samples. The research was supported by the ÚNKP-20-5-12 New National Excellence Program of the Ministry for Innovation and Technology from the source of the National Research, Development and Innovation Fund and by the János Bolyai Research Scholarship of the Hungarian Academy of Sciences. Full article
12 pages, 2811 KiB  
Article
Exploring the Phylogeography of Ancient Platycladus orientalis in China by Specific-Locus Amplified Fragment Sequencing
by Ermei Chang, Yuxin Tian, Caiyun Wang, Nan Deng, Zeping Jiang and Caixia Liu
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2019, 20(16), 3871; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms20163871 - 8 Aug 2019
Cited by 10 | Viewed by 3161
Abstract
Platycladus orientalis (i.e., Chinese thuja) is famous for its lifespan spanning hundreds, and even thousands, of years. Most ancient P. orientalis populations are widely distributed in China, with accessible historical records, making them valuable genetic resources. In this study, the distribution pattern of [...] Read more.
Platycladus orientalis (i.e., Chinese thuja) is famous for its lifespan spanning hundreds, and even thousands, of years. Most ancient P. orientalis populations are widely distributed in China, with accessible historical records, making them valuable genetic resources. In this study, the distribution pattern of ancient P. orientalis in China was analyzed based on 13 bioclimatic factors. Additionally, a specific-locus amplified fragment (SLAF) sequencing method was applied to detect single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the genomes of 100 accessions from 13 populations. The resulting data revealed that the suitable areas for the distribution of ancient P. orientalis populations were accurately predicted with four main climatic factors. A total of 81,722 SNPs were identified from 461,867 SLAFs for 100 individuals, with an average sequencing depth of 10.11-fold and a Q30 value of 82.75%. The pair-wise genetic distance and genetic differentiation of 13 populations indicated that the BT-T population exhibited the largest divergence from the other populations. A neighbor-joining phylogenetic tree suggested the relationship between many individuals was inconsistent with the geographical location, possibly indicative of a history of transplantation and cultivation. All individuals were clustered into nine genotypes according to a structural analysis and the relationships between individuals were clarified in phylogenetic trees. This study highlights the importance of the de novo genome sequencing of ancient P. orientalis and may provide the basis for the conservation of P. orientalis genetic resources, the identification of supergene families, and the evaluation of related genetic resources. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Molecular Plant Sciences)
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13 pages, 3018 KiB  
Article
Evaluation of the Effect of Plant Mixture Ethanol Extracts Containing Biota orientalis L. Extract on Suppression of Sebum in Cultured Sebocytes and on Stimulation of Growth of Keratinocytes Co-cultured with Hair Papilla Cells
by Haifeng Zeng, Lihao Gu and Kazuhisa Maeda
Cosmetics 2017, 4(3), 29; https://doi.org/10.3390/cosmetics4030029 - 14 Aug 2017
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 11137
Abstract
Biota orientalis L. leaf extract (BOLE) is used medically to improve strength and arrest hemorrhage. In China, BOLE has been used in traditional medicine for its antibacterial properties and for hair restoration. In this study, we investigated the mechanism of hair restoration by [...] Read more.
Biota orientalis L. leaf extract (BOLE) is used medically to improve strength and arrest hemorrhage. In China, BOLE has been used in traditional medicine for its antibacterial properties and for hair restoration. In this study, we investigated the mechanism of hair restoration by BOLE from the point of view of the sebum suppressant effect and hair loss prevention. BOLE at 25 or 50 μg/mL final concentrations, a hair growth plant ethanol extract (HGPEE), and a hair growth plant water extract (HGPWE) (the latter two each containing BOLE and other plant compounds), were used to study: (1) the sebum suppressant effect in sebocytes from normal golden hamster ear pinna origin; (2) the effect on the growth of human fetal epidermal keratinocytes; and (3) the effect on gene expression related to hair growth stimulation, with (2) and (3) studied in human fetal epidermal keratinocytes and hair papilla cells. BOLE had a sebum depletion effect in cultured sebocytes; moreover, the amounts of mRNA of the hair growth factors, KGF, VEGF, and G3PDH analyzed by real-time polymerase chain reaction in human hair papilla cells were increased by HGPEE. The amount of mRNA of Wnt10b in cultured epidermal keratinocytes was increased by the addition of BOLE, and the growth of the cultured epidermal keratinocytes was promoted by HGPEE in a two-layer culture system of hair papilla cells and epidermal keratinocytes. HGPEE had a hair growth promotion/hair restoration effect and a sebum suppression effect. Hair restorers containing HGPEE may be useful for stimulating hair growth and suppressing excess scalp sebum in males and females. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant Extracts in Skin Care Products)
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