This study explores the thin-layer convective solar drying of Marrubium vulgare L.leaves under conditions typical of sun-rich semi-arid climates.Drying experiments were conducted at three inlet-air temperatures(40℃,5...This study explores the thin-layer convective solar drying of Marrubium vulgare L.leaves under conditions typical of sun-rich semi-arid climates.Drying experiments were conducted at three inlet-air temperatures(40℃,50℃,60℃)and two air velocities(1.5 and 2.5 m·s^(-1))using an indirect solar dryer with auxiliary temperature control.Moisture-ratio data were fitted with eight widely used thin-layer models and evaluated using correlation coefficient(r),root-mean-square error(RMSE),and Akaike information criterion(AIC).A complementary heattransfer analysis based on Reynolds and Prandtl numbers with appropriate Nusselt correlations was used to relate flow regime to drying performance,and an energy balance quantified the relative contributions of solar and auxiliary heat.The logarithmic model consistently achieved the lowest RMSE/AIC with r>0.99 across all conditions.Higher temperature and air velocity significantly reduced drying time during the decreasing-rate period,with no constantrate stage observed.On average,solar input supplied the large majority of the thermal demand,while the auxiliary heater compensated short irradiance drops to maintain setpoints.These findings provide a reproducible dataset and a modelling benchmark for M.vulgare leaves,and they support energy-aware design of hybrid solar dryers formedicinal plants in sun-rich regions.展开更多
Invasive species are increasingly spreading,particularly in rangeland ecosystems.It is essential to evaluate the effectiveness of different methods for controlling invasive plants in these ecosystems.This study aimed ...Invasive species are increasingly spreading,particularly in rangeland ecosystems.It is essential to evaluate the effectiveness of different methods for controlling invasive plants in these ecosystems.This study aimed to investigate the effects of three strategies-21-year grazing exclusion(21-YES),mowing-grazing in rotation in alternate years(MGRS),and moderate grazing(MGS)-on the change in cover,density,and biomass of Leucanthemum vulgare Lam.(Ox-eye Daisy=OED)and the plant community.To accomplish this,three sites selected for each treatment.In 2021,270 vegetation plots were sampled using a random systematic method.Subsequently,we recorded the density and canopy cover of all growth forms(forbs,grasses,and ferns),the OED biomass,and the ground cover.The results indicated that MGS reduced OED density,OED canopy,and OED biomass.Furthermore,this strategy demonstrated the highest density and canopy cover of the plant community(including total,forbs,grasses,and ferns).Additionally,the strongest correlation was observed between the total canopy and the OED density(R2=-0.91,-0.95,-0.94 in 21-YES,MGRS,and MGS,respectively),as well as between the total canopy and the OED canopy(R2=-0.51,-0.98,-0.97 in 21-YES,MGRS,and MGS,respectively).The MGS led to an increase in diversity indices.In general,the grazing strategy has proven to be effective in controlling the spread of invasive OED and has also resulted in an increase in canopy cover,density,and diversity indices of the plant community.The study highlights the importance of ongoing management efforts to control invasive species,with moderate grazing potentially serving as a more practical,culturally accepted,and costeffective short-term control strategy for widespread rangeland weed infestations.展开更多
Type 2 diabetes mellitus(T2DM)emerges as a global health crisis and is characterized by hyperglycemia,insulin resistance,and oxidative stress.Conventional treatments for T2DM often have limitations,thus prompting inte...Type 2 diabetes mellitus(T2DM)emerges as a global health crisis and is characterized by hyperglycemia,insulin resistance,and oxidative stress.Conventional treatments for T2DM often have limitations,thus prompting interest in natural alternatives like fennel.This review explores fennel's potential anti-diabetic properties,focusing on its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.Fennel contains various bioactive compounds,including flavonoids,phenolic acids,and volatile oils,known for their antioxidant properties.These compounds can neutralize free radicals and reduce oxidative stress,which plays a crucial role in T2DM.Additionally,fennel's anti-inflammatory effects may help mitigate the chronic inflammation associated with T2DM.Preclinical studies have demonstrated fennel's ability to lower blood glucose levels,improve insulin sensitivity,and reduce oxidative stress in diabetic animals.These findings suggest that fennel may be a promising natural agent for managing T2DM.However,further research is needed to fully understand its mechanisms of action and to evaluate its efficacy and safety in human clinical trials.展开更多
[Objective]The aim was to analyze genetic diversity of SSR markers in Hordeum vulgare L.in Qinghai Province and lay a foundation for screening and protecting some excellent H.vulgare cultivars.[Method]SSR markers were...[Objective]The aim was to analyze genetic diversity of SSR markers in Hordeum vulgare L.in Qinghai Province and lay a foundation for screening and protecting some excellent H.vulgare cultivars.[Method]SSR markers were used to evaluate the genetic diversity of 42 cultivated H.vulgare from Qinghai Province.[Result]42 H.vulgare showed polymorphism in 7 SSR markers locus.A total of 24 alleles were identified,and the number of alleles per locus ranged from 1 to 6,with an average of 3.0.According to SSR markers polymorphism,42 H.vulgare could be divided into 4 groups,namely I,II,III and IV.[Result]The study indicated that cultivated H.vulgare from Qinghai Province is rich in genetic diversity,which will provide reference for selecting parent of H.vulgare breeding.展开更多
AIM To investigate the protective effects of Foeniculum vulgare root bark (FVRB), a traditional Uyghur medicine, against carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced hepatic fibrosis in mice. METHODS Mice were randomly divided...AIM To investigate the protective effects of Foeniculum vulgare root bark (FVRB), a traditional Uyghur medicine, against carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced hepatic fibrosis in mice. METHODS Mice were randomly divided into eight groups (n = 20 each). Except for the normal control group, mice in the rest groups were intraperitoneally injected (i.p.) with 0.1% CCl4-olive oil mixture at 10 mL/kg twice a week to induce liver fibrosis. After 4 wk, mice were treated concurrently with the 70% ethanol extract of FVRB (88, 176, 352 and 704 mg/kg, respectively) daily by oral gavage for 4 wk to evaluate its protective effects. Serum aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), triglyceride (TG), hexadecenoic acid (HA), laminin (LN), glutathione (GSH), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and malondialdehyde (MDA) in liver tissues were measured. Hematoxylin-eosin (H and E) staining and Masson trichrome (MT) staining were performed to assess histopathological changes in the liver. The expression of transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF-beta 1), matrix metalloprotein 9 (MMP-9) and metallopeptidase inhibitor 1 (TIMP-1) was detected by immunohistochemical analysis. Additionally, TGF-beta 1 and alpha-smooth muscle actin (alpha-SMA) protein expression was measured by Western blot. RESULTS A significant reduction in serum levels of AST, ALT, TG, HA and LN was observed in the FVRB-treated groups, suggesting that FVRB displayed hepatoprotective effects. Also, the depletion of GSH, SOD, and MDA accumulation in liver tissues was suppressed by FVRB. The expression of TGF-beta 1, MMP-9 and TIMP-1 determined by immunohistochemistry was markedly reduced in a dose-dependent manner by FVRB treatment. Furthermore, protective effects of FVRB against CCl4-induced liver injury were confirmed by histopathological studies. Protein expression of TGF-beta 1 and alpha-SMA detected by Western blot was decreased by FVRB treatment. CONCLUSION Our results indicate that FVRB may be a promising agent against hepatic fibrosis and its possible mechanisms are inhibiting lipid peroxidation and reducing collagen formation in liver tissue of liver fibrosis mice.展开更多
To understand genetic patterns of the morphological and physiological traits in flag leaf of barley, a double haploid （DH） population derived from the parents Yerong and Franklin was used to determine quantitative t...To understand genetic patterns of the morphological and physiological traits in flag leaf of barley, a double haploid （DH） population derived from the parents Yerong and Franklin was used to determine quantitative trait loci （QTL） controlling length, width, length/width, and chlorophyll content of flag leaves. A total of 9 QTLs showing significantly additive effect were detected in 8 intervals on 5 chromosomes. The variation of individual QTL ranged from 1.9% to 20.2%. For chlorophyll content expressed as SPAD value, 4 QTLs were identified on chromosomes 2H, 3H and 6H; for leaf length and width, 2 QTLs located on chromosomes 5H and 7H, and 2 QTLs located on chromosome 5H were detected; and for length/width, I QTL was detected on chromosome 7H. The identification of these QTLs associated with the properties of flag leaf is useful for barley improvement in breeding programs.展开更多
The present study was conducted to assay the antioxidant activities of essential oils and ethanol extracts of fennel(Foeniculum vulgare Mill.)seeds from Egypt and China.The major components of the Egyptian fennel esse...The present study was conducted to assay the antioxidant activities of essential oils and ethanol extracts of fennel(Foeniculum vulgare Mill.)seeds from Egypt and China.The major components of the Egyptian fennel essential oil were estragole(51.04%),limonene(11.45%),l-fenchone(8.19%)and trans-anethole(3.62%)by GC–MS analysis.Whereas,the major constituents of Chinese fennel essential oil were transanethole(54.26%),estragole(20.25%),l-fenchone(7.36%)and limonene(2.41%).The fennel seed extracts from Egypt and China contained appreciable levels of total phenolic contents(42.24 and 30.94 mg PE/g,respectively).The extracts exhibited good DPPH radical scavenging capacity with IC50(6.34 and 7.17 mg/g),respectively.A high variation in free radical scavenging activities of essential oils was observed.The Chinese fennel essential oil showed high activity in DPPH radical scavenging with IC50(15.66 mg/g).The Egyptian fennel essential oil showed very low activity with IC50(141.82 mg/g).The results of the present investigation demonstrated significant variations in the antioxidant activities of fennel essential oils and extracts from Egypt and China.展开更多
Background:Constipation is a common chronic bowel disorder with an incidence of more than 50%in the elderly population.Complementary and alternative medicine is a cost-effective and satisfactory treatment for constipa...Background:Constipation is a common chronic bowel disorder with an incidence of more than 50%in the elderly population.Complementary and alternative medicine is a cost-effective and satisfactory treatment for constipation used widely by the elderly.Objective:This study evaluates the efficacy of an herbal formula made from Foeniculum vulgare Mill.and Rosa damascena for the treatment of constipation in an elderly population and consequent changes to their quality of life.Design,setting,participants and intervention:This double-blind randomized active controlled clinical trial,with parallel group allocation ratio of 1:1,was conducted in a referral clinic in Afzalipour Hospital,affiliated to Kerman University of Medical Sciences in Kerman,Southeastern Iran.Individuals over 60 years of age,diagnosed with functional constipation(based on the RomeⅣcriteria),were included in this study.Participants received a sachet of 10 g F.vulgare and R.damascena(herbal formula group)or polyethylene glycol 4000(PEG 4000 group)with a glass of warm water two times a day for 4 weeks and were followed up for 4 additional weeks.Main outcome measures:Constipation severity,stool consistency,and the quality of life were used as the primary outcomes.Drug side effects were used as a secondary outcome.The outcomes were assessed using the Constipation Assessment Scale,the Bristol Stool Form Scale,and the Patient Assessment of Constipation Quality of Life questionnaire.Results:A total of 25 participants in each group completed the four-week treatment cycle and the eightweek follow-up.At the end of the four-week treatment cycle,all clinical outcomes had significant improvements in both groups(P<0.05).The analysis of constipation severity(P<0.001),stool consistency(P<0.001),and the quality of life(P<0.001)showed significant improvements with fewer side effects(mild diarrhea)and a longer duration of symptom relief in the herbal formula group compared to the PEG 4000 group.Conclusion:Although both interventions significantly improved the treatment outcomes,constipation severity,stool consistency and the quality of life were improved more effectively by the herbal formula than by PEG 4000;however,the mechanism of action is not yet understood.Trial registration:This trial was registered in the Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials(IRCTID:IRCT20200108046056N1).展开更多
[Objectives] This study was conducted to analyze the composition of volatile oil in different parts of fennel(Foenicuzu vulgare Mill.) and to compare the differences in the composition of volatile oil in different par...[Objectives] This study was conducted to analyze the composition of volatile oil in different parts of fennel(Foenicuzu vulgare Mill.) and to compare the differences in the composition of volatile oil in different parts of fennel.[Methods]The steam distillation method was applied to extract volatile oil from different parts of fennel,and the components of volatile oil from different parts of fennel were separated and identified by GC-MS.The relative content of each component was determined by the peak area normalization method.[Results]37,33,18,and 44 chemical components were separated from the volatile oil of fennel roots,stems,young leaves and fruit,respectively,accounting for 98.64%,99.34%,99.59% and 95.99% of the total volatile oil of corresponding parts.A total of 77 chemical components were identified in the four parts,of which 5 were common components.The main component of the volatile oil in the stems and young leaves was trans-anethole.The main components of the volatile oil in fruit were estragole and trans-anethole.And the main component of the volatile oil in the roots was dill apiol.The components in the volatile oil of fennel roots,stems,young leaves and fruit were different in type and content.[Conclusions]This study provides a theoretical reference for the further effective development and utilization of fennel resources.展开更多
This research was aimed to optimize the extraction conditions of three phenolic compounds: total phenolics, flavonoids and condensed tannins, from White Horehound’s leaves (Marrubium vulgare L.). Distilled water and ...This research was aimed to optimize the extraction conditions of three phenolic compounds: total phenolics, flavonoids and condensed tannins, from White Horehound’s leaves (Marrubium vulgare L.). Distilled water and different organic solvents such as: methanol, ethanol and acetone, were used, with various concentrations (20% - 80%, v/v), temperatures (20°C - 60°C) and extraction times (30 - 450 min). Results showed that the maximum total phenolics amounts (293.34 ± 14.60 mg gallic acid equivalent/g dry weigh), were obtained with 60% aqueous methanol at 25°C for 180 min;total flavonoids (79.52 ± 0.55 mg catechin equivalent/g dry weigh) with 80% aqueous methanol at 20°C for 450 min, and condensed tannins (28.15 ± 0.80 mg catechin equivalent/g dry weigh) with 60% aqueous acetone at 50°C and for 180 min. ANOVA test showed the significant effect (***P < 0.001) of the extraction conditions tested on phenolic compounds. The Principal Component Analysis (PCA) exhibited the positive effect of low temperatures on total phenolics and flavonoids extraction, and the effect of high temperatures on the condensed tannins extraction. The Response Surface Methodology (RSM) provided predicted values of extraction conditions and maximum polyphenols amounts similar to those obtained experimentally.展开更多
Origanum vulgare L. is a commercially valued species with remarkable biological properties. It is subject to over-exploitation practices that seriously threaten its sustainability for future generations. Thus, micropr...Origanum vulgare L. is a commercially valued species with remarkable biological properties. It is subject to over-exploitation practices that seriously threaten its sustainability for future generations. Thus, micropropagation serves as a tool for the protection and domestication of this species. In this study, we established an in vitro vegetative propagation protocol for Origanum vulgare. This is done through the axillary bud technique by carrying out various tests. Six culture media (MS, MSm, N<sub>30</sub>K, SD, SH and B5) were tested. Therefore, SD was chosen for the following experiments. Seven cytokinins (adenine (Ad), N6-(2-isopentenyl) (2ip), zeatin (Zeat), kinetin (Kin), benzyladenine (BAP), 1,3-diphenylurea (DPU) and thidiazuron (TDZ) at 5 concentrations (0.44, 1.33, 2.22, 3.11 and 4.44 μM/L) were evaluated. Thus, Kin at 3.11 μM allowed high regeneration of vitroplants, optimal elongation, total rooting of explants, maximum bud multiplication, and absence of hyperhydric explants. In fact, the integration of auxins (indole-3-acetic acid (IAA), indole-3-butyric acid (IBA), and 1-naphthaleneacetic acid (NAA)) into the culture medium and their combinations with 3.11 μM Kinetin contributed to the optimization of the root part. Thus, it was improved in particular in the case of 3.11 μM Kin and 6.27 μM IBA. Three polyamines (Putrescine, Spermidine and Spermine) at different concentrations (1.134, 3.402, 5.67, 7.938 and 11.34 μM/L) combined at 3.11 μM Kin and 6.27 μM IBA were tested. In fact, 1.304 μM putrescine was considered to be the most suitable for in vitro culture of explants, since it allowed optimal propagation of buds and roots, also a high rate of regeneration and rhizogenesis. GA<sub>3</sub> at 1.15 μM combined with 3.11 μM Kin and 6.27 μM IBA permitted maximum bud multiplication. The acclimatization was carried out successfully using vitroplants showing good foliar and root development. Thus, three months after acclimatization, the seedlings were transferred into large pots under natural light and temperature conditions. Almost all acclimatized plants developed flowers in the first year between May and July.展开更多
AIM： To examine the anti-ulcerogenic and antioxidant effects of aqueous extracts of Foeniculum vu/gare （FVE） on ethanol-induced gastric lesions in rats.METHODS： FVE was administered by gavage at doses of 75, i50 a...AIM： To examine the anti-ulcerogenic and antioxidant effects of aqueous extracts of Foeniculum vu/gare （FVE） on ethanol-induced gastric lesions in rats.METHODS： FVE was administered by gavage at doses of 75, i50 and 300 mg/kg, and famotidine was used at the dose of20mg/kg.Following a 60 min period, all the rats were given 1 mL of ethanol （80%） by gavage. One hour after the administration of ethanol, all groups were sacrificed, and the gastric ulcer index was calculated; whole blood malondialdehyde （MDA） and reduced glutathione （GSH）, serum nitrate, nitrite, ascorbic acid, retinol and β-carotene levels were measured in all the groups.RESULTS： It was found that pretreatment with FVE significantly reduced ethanol-induced gastric damage. This effect of FVE was highest and statistically significant in 300 mg/kg group compared with the control （4.18 ± 2.81 vs 13.15 ± 4.08, P 〈 0.001）. Also, pretreatment with FVE significantly reduced the MDA levels, while significantly increased GSH, nitrite, nitrate, ascorbic acid, retinol and β-carotene levels. CONCLUSION： FVE has clearly a protective effect against ethanol-induced gastric mucosal lesion, and this effect, at least in part, depends upon the reduction in lipid peroxidation and augmentation in the antioxidant activity.展开更多
Essential oil from seeds of Foeniculum vulgare was extracted on Clevenger apparatus. Essential oil was analyzed on Gas-Chromatography-Mass spectrometry (GC-MS) from which thirty six components were identified, among w...Essential oil from seeds of Foeniculum vulgare was extracted on Clevenger apparatus. Essential oil was analyzed on Gas-Chromatography-Mass spectrometry (GC-MS) from which thirty six components were identified, among which 6 major and 30 minor components having different structural formulae and molecular weight representing total 99.98% of oil. Essential was investigated for its antibacterial and antifungal activity against seven infectious microbial pathogens. Paper disc diffusion and serial micro-dilution assays were performed for the determination of inhibition zone (DIZ) diameters and minimal inhibitory concentration, respectively. The Foeniculum vulgare essential oil showed the Diameter of Inhibition Zone (DIZ) ranging from 19.4 ± 0.07 - 26.4 ± 0.09 mm at a concentration level of 28 μg/disc in all the ten strains tested. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of essential oil against bacterial and fungal strains was obtained in the range of 7.0 - 56 μg/ml. Antibacterial and antifungal activity of Foeniculum vulgare essential oil is due to the presence of certain secondary plant metabolites such as terpenoids, steroids and flavonoids, esters and acids which are identified in the essential oil. The oil components can be further studied for their biological activity and overcome the problem of drug resistance in microbes.展开更多
文摘This study explores the thin-layer convective solar drying of Marrubium vulgare L.leaves under conditions typical of sun-rich semi-arid climates.Drying experiments were conducted at three inlet-air temperatures(40℃,50℃,60℃)and two air velocities(1.5 and 2.5 m·s^(-1))using an indirect solar dryer with auxiliary temperature control.Moisture-ratio data were fitted with eight widely used thin-layer models and evaluated using correlation coefficient(r),root-mean-square error(RMSE),and Akaike information criterion(AIC).A complementary heattransfer analysis based on Reynolds and Prandtl numbers with appropriate Nusselt correlations was used to relate flow regime to drying performance,and an energy balance quantified the relative contributions of solar and auxiliary heat.The logarithmic model consistently achieved the lowest RMSE/AIC with r>0.99 across all conditions.Higher temperature and air velocity significantly reduced drying time during the decreasing-rate period,with no constantrate stage observed.On average,solar input supplied the large majority of the thermal demand,while the auxiliary heater compensated short irradiance drops to maintain setpoints.These findings provide a reproducible dataset and a modelling benchmark for M.vulgare leaves,and they support energy-aware design of hybrid solar dryers formedicinal plants in sun-rich regions.
基金the University of Mohaghegh Ardabili,Department of Natural Resources,Iran for financial support。
文摘Invasive species are increasingly spreading,particularly in rangeland ecosystems.It is essential to evaluate the effectiveness of different methods for controlling invasive plants in these ecosystems.This study aimed to investigate the effects of three strategies-21-year grazing exclusion(21-YES),mowing-grazing in rotation in alternate years(MGRS),and moderate grazing(MGS)-on the change in cover,density,and biomass of Leucanthemum vulgare Lam.(Ox-eye Daisy=OED)and the plant community.To accomplish this,three sites selected for each treatment.In 2021,270 vegetation plots were sampled using a random systematic method.Subsequently,we recorded the density and canopy cover of all growth forms(forbs,grasses,and ferns),the OED biomass,and the ground cover.The results indicated that MGS reduced OED density,OED canopy,and OED biomass.Furthermore,this strategy demonstrated the highest density and canopy cover of the plant community(including total,forbs,grasses,and ferns).Additionally,the strongest correlation was observed between the total canopy and the OED density(R2=-0.91,-0.95,-0.94 in 21-YES,MGRS,and MGS,respectively),as well as between the total canopy and the OED canopy(R2=-0.51,-0.98,-0.97 in 21-YES,MGRS,and MGS,respectively).The MGS led to an increase in diversity indices.In general,the grazing strategy has proven to be effective in controlling the spread of invasive OED and has also resulted in an increase in canopy cover,density,and diversity indices of the plant community.The study highlights the importance of ongoing management efforts to control invasive species,with moderate grazing potentially serving as a more practical,culturally accepted,and costeffective short-term control strategy for widespread rangeland weed infestations.
文摘Type 2 diabetes mellitus(T2DM)emerges as a global health crisis and is characterized by hyperglycemia,insulin resistance,and oxidative stress.Conventional treatments for T2DM often have limitations,thus prompting interest in natural alternatives like fennel.This review explores fennel's potential anti-diabetic properties,focusing on its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.Fennel contains various bioactive compounds,including flavonoids,phenolic acids,and volatile oils,known for their antioxidant properties.These compounds can neutralize free radicals and reduce oxidative stress,which plays a crucial role in T2DM.Additionally,fennel's anti-inflammatory effects may help mitigate the chronic inflammation associated with T2DM.Preclinical studies have demonstrated fennel's ability to lower blood glucose levels,improve insulin sensitivity,and reduce oxidative stress in diabetic animals.These findings suggest that fennel may be a promising natural agent for managing T2DM.However,further research is needed to fully understand its mechanisms of action and to evaluate its efficacy and safety in human clinical trials.
基金Supported by National Science and Technology Support Projects(2007BAD64B01)~~
文摘[Objective]The aim was to analyze genetic diversity of SSR markers in Hordeum vulgare L.in Qinghai Province and lay a foundation for screening and protecting some excellent H.vulgare cultivars.[Method]SSR markers were used to evaluate the genetic diversity of 42 cultivated H.vulgare from Qinghai Province.[Result]42 H.vulgare showed polymorphism in 7 SSR markers locus.A total of 24 alleles were identified,and the number of alleles per locus ranged from 1 to 6,with an average of 3.0.According to SSR markers polymorphism,42 H.vulgare could be divided into 4 groups,namely I,II,III and IV.[Result]The study indicated that cultivated H.vulgare from Qinghai Province is rich in genetic diversity,which will provide reference for selecting parent of H.vulgare breeding.
基金Supported by National Key Technology R&D Program,No.2012BAI30B02
文摘AIM To investigate the protective effects of Foeniculum vulgare root bark (FVRB), a traditional Uyghur medicine, against carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced hepatic fibrosis in mice. METHODS Mice were randomly divided into eight groups (n = 20 each). Except for the normal control group, mice in the rest groups were intraperitoneally injected (i.p.) with 0.1% CCl4-olive oil mixture at 10 mL/kg twice a week to induce liver fibrosis. After 4 wk, mice were treated concurrently with the 70% ethanol extract of FVRB (88, 176, 352 and 704 mg/kg, respectively) daily by oral gavage for 4 wk to evaluate its protective effects. Serum aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), triglyceride (TG), hexadecenoic acid (HA), laminin (LN), glutathione (GSH), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and malondialdehyde (MDA) in liver tissues were measured. Hematoxylin-eosin (H and E) staining and Masson trichrome (MT) staining were performed to assess histopathological changes in the liver. The expression of transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF-beta 1), matrix metalloprotein 9 (MMP-9) and metallopeptidase inhibitor 1 (TIMP-1) was detected by immunohistochemical analysis. Additionally, TGF-beta 1 and alpha-smooth muscle actin (alpha-SMA) protein expression was measured by Western blot. RESULTS A significant reduction in serum levels of AST, ALT, TG, HA and LN was observed in the FVRB-treated groups, suggesting that FVRB displayed hepatoprotective effects. Also, the depletion of GSH, SOD, and MDA accumulation in liver tissues was suppressed by FVRB. The expression of TGF-beta 1, MMP-9 and TIMP-1 determined by immunohistochemistry was markedly reduced in a dose-dependent manner by FVRB treatment. Furthermore, protective effects of FVRB against CCl4-induced liver injury were confirmed by histopathological studies. Protein expression of TGF-beta 1 and alpha-SMA detected by Western blot was decreased by FVRB treatment. CONCLUSION Our results indicate that FVRB may be a promising agent against hepatic fibrosis and its possible mechanisms are inhibiting lipid peroxidation and reducing collagen formation in liver tissue of liver fibrosis mice.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (No. 30630047) the Project on Absorption of Intellects by Institutions of Higher Education for Academic Disciplinary Innova-tions (the 111 Project) (No. B06014), China
文摘To understand genetic patterns of the morphological and physiological traits in flag leaf of barley, a double haploid （DH） population derived from the parents Yerong and Franklin was used to determine quantitative trait loci （QTL） controlling length, width, length/width, and chlorophyll content of flag leaves. A total of 9 QTLs showing significantly additive effect were detected in 8 intervals on 5 chromosomes. The variation of individual QTL ranged from 1.9% to 20.2%. For chlorophyll content expressed as SPAD value, 4 QTLs were identified on chromosomes 2H, 3H and 6H; for leaf length and width, 2 QTLs located on chromosomes 5H and 7H, and 2 QTLs located on chromosome 5H were detected; and for length/width, I QTL was detected on chromosome 7H. The identification of these QTLs associated with the properties of flag leaf is useful for barley improvement in breeding programs.
基金National cooperation project of Kaifeng City(1806004).
文摘The present study was conducted to assay the antioxidant activities of essential oils and ethanol extracts of fennel(Foeniculum vulgare Mill.)seeds from Egypt and China.The major components of the Egyptian fennel essential oil were estragole(51.04%),limonene(11.45%),l-fenchone(8.19%)and trans-anethole(3.62%)by GC–MS analysis.Whereas,the major constituents of Chinese fennel essential oil were transanethole(54.26%),estragole(20.25%),l-fenchone(7.36%)and limonene(2.41%).The fennel seed extracts from Egypt and China contained appreciable levels of total phenolic contents(42.24 and 30.94 mg PE/g,respectively).The extracts exhibited good DPPH radical scavenging capacity with IC50(6.34 and 7.17 mg/g),respectively.A high variation in free radical scavenging activities of essential oils was observed.The Chinese fennel essential oil showed high activity in DPPH radical scavenging with IC50(15.66 mg/g).The Egyptian fennel essential oil showed very low activity with IC50(141.82 mg/g).The results of the present investigation demonstrated significant variations in the antioxidant activities of fennel essential oils and extracts from Egypt and China.
基金the authorities at the Kerman University of Medical Sciences for supporting this study。
文摘Background:Constipation is a common chronic bowel disorder with an incidence of more than 50%in the elderly population.Complementary and alternative medicine is a cost-effective and satisfactory treatment for constipation used widely by the elderly.Objective:This study evaluates the efficacy of an herbal formula made from Foeniculum vulgare Mill.and Rosa damascena for the treatment of constipation in an elderly population and consequent changes to their quality of life.Design,setting,participants and intervention:This double-blind randomized active controlled clinical trial,with parallel group allocation ratio of 1:1,was conducted in a referral clinic in Afzalipour Hospital,affiliated to Kerman University of Medical Sciences in Kerman,Southeastern Iran.Individuals over 60 years of age,diagnosed with functional constipation(based on the RomeⅣcriteria),were included in this study.Participants received a sachet of 10 g F.vulgare and R.damascena(herbal formula group)or polyethylene glycol 4000(PEG 4000 group)with a glass of warm water two times a day for 4 weeks and were followed up for 4 additional weeks.Main outcome measures:Constipation severity,stool consistency,and the quality of life were used as the primary outcomes.Drug side effects were used as a secondary outcome.The outcomes were assessed using the Constipation Assessment Scale,the Bristol Stool Form Scale,and the Patient Assessment of Constipation Quality of Life questionnaire.Results:A total of 25 participants in each group completed the four-week treatment cycle and the eightweek follow-up.At the end of the four-week treatment cycle,all clinical outcomes had significant improvements in both groups(P<0.05).The analysis of constipation severity(P<0.001),stool consistency(P<0.001),and the quality of life(P<0.001)showed significant improvements with fewer side effects(mild diarrhea)and a longer duration of symptom relief in the herbal formula group compared to the PEG 4000 group.Conclusion:Although both interventions significantly improved the treatment outcomes,constipation severity,stool consistency and the quality of life were improved more effectively by the herbal formula than by PEG 4000;however,the mechanism of action is not yet understood.Trial registration:This trial was registered in the Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials(IRCTID:IRCT20200108046056N1).
基金Supported by Anshun Science and Technology Innovation Platform Construction Project(ASKP[2017]03)。
文摘[Objectives] This study was conducted to analyze the composition of volatile oil in different parts of fennel(Foenicuzu vulgare Mill.) and to compare the differences in the composition of volatile oil in different parts of fennel.[Methods]The steam distillation method was applied to extract volatile oil from different parts of fennel,and the components of volatile oil from different parts of fennel were separated and identified by GC-MS.The relative content of each component was determined by the peak area normalization method.[Results]37,33,18,and 44 chemical components were separated from the volatile oil of fennel roots,stems,young leaves and fruit,respectively,accounting for 98.64%,99.34%,99.59% and 95.99% of the total volatile oil of corresponding parts.A total of 77 chemical components were identified in the four parts,of which 5 were common components.The main component of the volatile oil in the stems and young leaves was trans-anethole.The main components of the volatile oil in fruit were estragole and trans-anethole.And the main component of the volatile oil in the roots was dill apiol.The components in the volatile oil of fennel roots,stems,young leaves and fruit were different in type and content.[Conclusions]This study provides a theoretical reference for the further effective development and utilization of fennel resources.
文摘This research was aimed to optimize the extraction conditions of three phenolic compounds: total phenolics, flavonoids and condensed tannins, from White Horehound’s leaves (Marrubium vulgare L.). Distilled water and different organic solvents such as: methanol, ethanol and acetone, were used, with various concentrations (20% - 80%, v/v), temperatures (20°C - 60°C) and extraction times (30 - 450 min). Results showed that the maximum total phenolics amounts (293.34 ± 14.60 mg gallic acid equivalent/g dry weigh), were obtained with 60% aqueous methanol at 25°C for 180 min;total flavonoids (79.52 ± 0.55 mg catechin equivalent/g dry weigh) with 80% aqueous methanol at 20°C for 450 min, and condensed tannins (28.15 ± 0.80 mg catechin equivalent/g dry weigh) with 60% aqueous acetone at 50°C and for 180 min. ANOVA test showed the significant effect (***P < 0.001) of the extraction conditions tested on phenolic compounds. The Principal Component Analysis (PCA) exhibited the positive effect of low temperatures on total phenolics and flavonoids extraction, and the effect of high temperatures on the condensed tannins extraction. The Response Surface Methodology (RSM) provided predicted values of extraction conditions and maximum polyphenols amounts similar to those obtained experimentally.
文摘Origanum vulgare L. is a commercially valued species with remarkable biological properties. It is subject to over-exploitation practices that seriously threaten its sustainability for future generations. Thus, micropropagation serves as a tool for the protection and domestication of this species. In this study, we established an in vitro vegetative propagation protocol for Origanum vulgare. This is done through the axillary bud technique by carrying out various tests. Six culture media (MS, MSm, N<sub>30</sub>K, SD, SH and B5) were tested. Therefore, SD was chosen for the following experiments. Seven cytokinins (adenine (Ad), N6-(2-isopentenyl) (2ip), zeatin (Zeat), kinetin (Kin), benzyladenine (BAP), 1,3-diphenylurea (DPU) and thidiazuron (TDZ) at 5 concentrations (0.44, 1.33, 2.22, 3.11 and 4.44 μM/L) were evaluated. Thus, Kin at 3.11 μM allowed high regeneration of vitroplants, optimal elongation, total rooting of explants, maximum bud multiplication, and absence of hyperhydric explants. In fact, the integration of auxins (indole-3-acetic acid (IAA), indole-3-butyric acid (IBA), and 1-naphthaleneacetic acid (NAA)) into the culture medium and their combinations with 3.11 μM Kinetin contributed to the optimization of the root part. Thus, it was improved in particular in the case of 3.11 μM Kin and 6.27 μM IBA. Three polyamines (Putrescine, Spermidine and Spermine) at different concentrations (1.134, 3.402, 5.67, 7.938 and 11.34 μM/L) combined at 3.11 μM Kin and 6.27 μM IBA were tested. In fact, 1.304 μM putrescine was considered to be the most suitable for in vitro culture of explants, since it allowed optimal propagation of buds and roots, also a high rate of regeneration and rhizogenesis. GA<sub>3</sub> at 1.15 μM combined with 3.11 μM Kin and 6.27 μM IBA permitted maximum bud multiplication. The acclimatization was carried out successfully using vitroplants showing good foliar and root development. Thus, three months after acclimatization, the seedlings were transferred into large pots under natural light and temperature conditions. Almost all acclimatized plants developed flowers in the first year between May and July.
文摘AIM： To examine the anti-ulcerogenic and antioxidant effects of aqueous extracts of Foeniculum vu/gare （FVE） on ethanol-induced gastric lesions in rats.METHODS： FVE was administered by gavage at doses of 75, i50 and 300 mg/kg, and famotidine was used at the dose of20mg/kg.Following a 60 min period, all the rats were given 1 mL of ethanol （80%） by gavage. One hour after the administration of ethanol, all groups were sacrificed, and the gastric ulcer index was calculated; whole blood malondialdehyde （MDA） and reduced glutathione （GSH）, serum nitrate, nitrite, ascorbic acid, retinol and β-carotene levels were measured in all the groups.RESULTS： It was found that pretreatment with FVE significantly reduced ethanol-induced gastric damage. This effect of FVE was highest and statistically significant in 300 mg/kg group compared with the control （4.18 ± 2.81 vs 13.15 ± 4.08, P 〈 0.001）. Also, pretreatment with FVE significantly reduced the MDA levels, while significantly increased GSH, nitrite, nitrate, ascorbic acid, retinol and β-carotene levels. CONCLUSION： FVE has clearly a protective effect against ethanol-induced gastric mucosal lesion, and this effect, at least in part, depends upon the reduction in lipid peroxidation and augmentation in the antioxidant activity.
文摘Essential oil from seeds of Foeniculum vulgare was extracted on Clevenger apparatus. Essential oil was analyzed on Gas-Chromatography-Mass spectrometry (GC-MS) from which thirty six components were identified, among which 6 major and 30 minor components having different structural formulae and molecular weight representing total 99.98% of oil. Essential was investigated for its antibacterial and antifungal activity against seven infectious microbial pathogens. Paper disc diffusion and serial micro-dilution assays were performed for the determination of inhibition zone (DIZ) diameters and minimal inhibitory concentration, respectively. The Foeniculum vulgare essential oil showed the Diameter of Inhibition Zone (DIZ) ranging from 19.4 ± 0.07 - 26.4 ± 0.09 mm at a concentration level of 28 μg/disc in all the ten strains tested. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of essential oil against bacterial and fungal strains was obtained in the range of 7.0 - 56 μg/ml. Antibacterial and antifungal activity of Foeniculum vulgare essential oil is due to the presence of certain secondary plant metabolites such as terpenoids, steroids and flavonoids, esters and acids which are identified in the essential oil. The oil components can be further studied for their biological activity and overcome the problem of drug resistance in microbes.
