Assessing the Antioxidant Properties, In Vitro Cytotoxicity and Antitumoral Effects of Polyphenol-Rich Perilla leaves Extracts

(1) Background: This study aimed to outline the antioxidant, antitumoral, and cytotoxic proprieties of various types of Perilla frutescens extracts obtained from the leaves of the species. (2) Methods: We determined total polyphenols, flavonoids and anthocyanins contents, as well as the in vitro antioxidant, antitumoral, and cytotoxic actions in three types of ethanolic extracts (E1, E2, E3) and in three types of acetone: ethanol extracts (A1, A2, A3) of Perilla frutescens according to standardized procedures. (3) Results: We found that Perilla frutescens ethanolic extracts had the highest total phenol and anthocyanins concentrations. The flavonoids concentration was not statistically different between the extracts. The iron chelating capacity, hydroxyl radical scavenging capacity, superoxide anion radical scavenging capacity, and lipoxygenase inhibition capacity showed a significant increase with higher concentrations of Perilla frutescens extracts, particularly the ethanolic extracts. Perillyl alcohol had greater cytotoxic capacity in the MG-63 cell line and E1 extract showed similar significant cytotoxic effects in the A431 cell line. (4) Conclusions: Both ethanolic and acetone-ethanol extracts from Perilla frutescens exhibited important antioxidant and antitumoral actions in vitro, which proportionally increased with concentration. The cytotoxic threshold determined in this study for various types of extracts could help determine the best dosage with the maximum antioxidant and antitumoral potential. Our results could serve as a basis for further studies that will investigate the cytotoxic effects of Perilla frutescens variants on various types of cancer cell lines.

Current Overview of Metal Nanoparticles' Synthesis, Characterization, and Biomedical Applications, with a Focus on Silver and Gold Nanoparticles

Metal nanoparticles (NPs) have garnered considerable attention, due to their unique physicochemical properties, that render them promising candidates for various applications in medicine and industry. This article offers a comprehensive overview of the most recent advancements in the manufacturing, characterization, and biomedical utilization of metal NPs, with a primary focus on silver and gold NPs. Their potential as effective anticancer, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial agents, drug delivery systems, and imaging agents in the diagnosis and treatment of a variety of disorders is reviewed. Moreover, their translation to therapeutic settings, and the issue of their inclusion in clinical trials, are assessed in light of over 30 clinical investigations that concentrate on administering either silver or gold NPs in conditions ranging from nosocomial infections to different types of cancers. This paper aims not only to examine the biocompatibility of nanomaterials but also to emphasize potential challenges that may limit their safe integration into healthcare practices. More than 100 nanomedicines are currently on the market, which justifies ongoing study into the use of nanomaterials in medicine. Overall, the present review aims to highlight the potential of silver and gold NPs as innovative and effective therapeutics in the field of biomedicine, citing some of their most relevant current applications.

Preliminary Phytochemical and Biological Evaluation of Rudbeckia hirta Flowers

Black-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta L.), a flowering plant with various traditional medicinal uses, has recently garnered interest for its therapeutic properties. However, little is known about the potential therapeutic activities of the plant species. The current study focused on conducting a comprehensive investigation into the chemical composition and bioactivity of black-eyed Susan cultivated in Romania. Untargeted metabolite profiling and UHPLC-HR-MS phytochemical analysis of the studied extract revealed the presence of more than 250 compounds pertaining to different classes, including sesquiterpene lactones, polyphenolic acids, flavonoids, amino acids, and fatty acids. The tested extract exhibited inhibitory activity against Gram-positive bacteria and showed promising antifungal activity. It also demonstrated potent antioxidant properties through iron chelation and 15-LOX inhibition capacities, as well as inhibition of cell growth, particularly on the MCF-7 cell line, suggesting potential anticancer effects. Therefore, current research provides valuable information on the antioxidant, antimicrobial, and antitumor potential of Rudbeckia hirta flowers. Implicitly, the discovery of such a wide range of biosubstances, together with the biological activity observed for the studied extract in these preliminary in vitro studies, paves the way for future investigation of the potential application of the plant in the pharmaceutical and nutraceutical sectors.

Influence of the Loading with Newly Green Silver Nanoparticles Synthesized Using Equisetum sylvaticum on the Antibacterial Activity and Surface Hardness of a Composite Resin

The aim of the study was to evaluate the antibacterial activity and surface hardness of a light-activated microhybrid composite resin modified with green silver nanoparticles (AgNPs). AgNPs were synthesized using an Equisetum sylvaticum extract and characterized through different methods such as UV-Vis, EDX, and FTIR. The obtained AgNPs were mixed with a microhybrid composite resin (Herculite XRV, Kerr Corp., Orange, CA, USA) in different concentrations: 0% (group A-control); 0.5% (group B); 1% (group C); and 1.5% (group D). A total of 120 composite resin disk-shaped samples were obtained and divided into 4 groups (n = 30) according to AgNP concentration. Each group was then divided into 2 subgroups: subgroup 1-samples were not soaked in 0.01 M NaOH solution; and subgroup 2-samples were soaked in 0.01 M NaOH solution. The antibacterial activity against Streptococcus mutans was determined using a direct contact test. A digital electronic hardness tester was used to determine the composite resin's Vickers surface hardness (VH). Statistical analysis was performed using the Mann-Whitney U and Kruskal-Wallis nonparametric tests with a confidence level of 95%. Groups C and D showed higher antibacterial activity against S. mutans when compared to the control group (p < 0.05). No significant differences were recorded between VH values (p > 0.05). The use of AgNPs synthesized from Equisetum sylvaticum as a composite resin filler in 1% wt. and 1.5% wt. reduced the activity of Streptococcus mutans. Soaking of the experimental composite resin decreased the antibacterial efficacy. The loading of a microhybrid composite resin with AgNPs in concentrations of 0.5% wt., 1% wt., and 1.5% wt. did not influence the surface hardness.

Long-Term Adherence in Overweight Patients with Obstructive Sleep Apnea and Hypertension-A Pilot Prospective Cohort Study

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is associated with increased cardiovascular risk, sedentarism, depression, anxiety and impaired quality of life. The long-term effectiveness of positive airway pressure (PAP) is insufficiently studied and limited by poor patient compliance. The aim of this pilot prospective cohort study was to evaluate long-term adherence in overweight patients with moderate-severe OSA and hypertension and to analyze changes in weight, sleepiness and quality of life. We performed a prospective study that included overweight patients with moderate-severe OSA and hypertension who had not undergone previous PAP therapy. All subjects received a standard physical examination, education regarding lifestyle changes and free PAP therapy for 2 months. After five years, the patients were invited to participate in a telephone-based interview regarding PAP compliance and completed standard questionnaires assessing adherence to medication, physical activity, diet, anxiety and quality of life (QoL). Only 39.58% of the patients were adherent to PAP 5 years (58.42 ± 3.70 months) after being diagnosed with moderate-severe OSA. Long-term PAP use results in sustained weight loss; improved blood pressure control, sleepiness and QOL; and lower anxiety and depression scores. PAP compliance was not associated with a higher level of daily physical activity or a healthier diet.

In vitro Evaluation of Antioxidant and Antibacterial Activities of Eco-friendly Synthesized Silver Nanoparticles using Quercus robur Bark Extract

AIMS

This study reports a simple, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly method to obtain silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using an aqueous extract of Quercus robur bark.

METHODS

AgNPs synthesis conditions such as silver nitrate concentration, extract:AgNO₃ volume ratio, pH, temperature, and reaction time have been examined. After optimizing the synthesis, the obtained AgNPs were characterized by different methods such as UV-Vis, TEM, EDX, and FTIR. The antioxidant activity was evaluated using lipoxygenase inhibition capacity and inhibition of erythrocyte hemolysis mediated by peroxyl free radicals tests. The antimicrobial potential of the samples was tested against Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Candida albicans.

RESULTS

The AgNPs synthesis process is influenced by reaction conditions, the optimum established values being, in this case: concentration of 3 mM AgNO₃, 1:9 extract: AgNO₃ volume ratio, pH value of 6, 60 ºC temperature, and 90 minutes stirring time. The shape of the synthesized AgNPs was predominantly spherical, with an average size of 50 nm. The SPR band at 432 nm, the strong EDX signal at ~ 3 keV and the zeta potential of -13.88 mV revealed the formation of AgNPs and electrostatic stabilization of the colloidal solution. FTIR analysis confirmed the participation of molecules from the extract in the synthesis and stabilization of AgNPs. The obtained nanoparticles showed improved antioxidant, antifungal and antibacterial activities compared to the extract.

CONCLUSION

The results open the possibility of exploring new applications of nanoparticles obtained via green synthesis.

Green Synthesis and Characterization of Silver Nanoparticles Using a Lythrum salicaria Extract and In Vitro Exploration of Their Biological Activities

This research describes an eco-friendly green route for the synthesis of AgNPs using an aqueous extract of Lythrum salicaria. Taguchi design was used to optimize the synthesis method, taking into account various working conditions. The optimum parameters were established using a 3 mM AgNO₃ concentration, a 1:9 extract:AgNO₃ volume ratio, a pH value of 8, 60 ℃ temperature, and 180 min reaction time. The synthesized AgNPs were characterized using UV-Vis and FTIR spectroscopy, and TEM and EDX analysis. The SPR band at 410 nm, as well as the functional groups of biomolecules identified by FTIR and the EDX signals at ~3 keV, confirmed the synthesis of spherical AgNPs. The average AgNPs size was determined to be 40 nm, through TEM, and the zeta potential was −19.62 mV. The antimicrobial assay showed inhibition against S. aureus and C. albicans. Moreover, the results regarding the inhibition of lipoxygenase and of peroxyl radical-mediated hemolysis assays were promising and justify further antioxidant studies.

Dipeptidyl Peptidase - 4 Inhibitors - An Overview of the Combination of These Molecules and Hypoglicemic Oral Drugs

The purpose of the current review is to bring up to date some studies and data about the effects of hypoglycemic oral drugs in combination with DPP-4 inhibitors. As the medicine and pharmaceutical industry are revolutionary in type 2 diabetes protocols, scientists made a close research on patients that have combined metformin plus sulfonyurea and metformin plus DPP-4 inhibitors. Statistics showed that sulfonylurea compared to DPP-4 inhibitors, in combination with metformin, increased the risk of severe hypoglycemia, fatal and nonfatal cardiovascular diseases, and mortality. Another important discovery showed that the insulin associated with metformin increased the risk of all-caused mortality, compared with the DPP-4 inhibitors plus metformin.

In Vitro Antioxidant, Antitumor and Photocatalytic Activities of Silver Nanoparticles Synthesized Using Equisetum Species: A Green Approach

The ethanolic extracts of three Equisetum species (E. pratense Ehrh., E. sylvaticum L. and E. telmateia Ehrh.) were used to reduce silver ions to silver nanoparticles (AgNPs). The synthesized AgNPs were characterized using UV-Vis spectrophotometry, Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), Energy Dispersive X-ray (EDX), Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) and Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS) measurements. FTIR data revealed the functional groups of biomolecules involved in AgNPs synthesis, such as O-H, C-H, C=O, C-O, and C-C. EDX spectroscopy was used to highlight the presence of silver, while DLS spectroscopy provided information on the mean diameter of AgNPs, that ranged from 74.4 to 314 nm. The negative Zeta potential values (−23.76 for Ep–AgNPs, −29.54 for Es–AgNPs and −20.72 for Et–AgNPs) indicate the stability of the obtained colloidal solution. The study also focused on establishing the photocatalytic activity of AgNPs, which is an important aspect in terms of removing organic dyes from the environment. The best photocatalytic activity was observed for AgNPs obtained from E. telmateia, which degraded malachite green in a proportion of 97.9%. The antioxidant action of the three AgNPs samples was highlighted comparatively through four tests, with the best overall antioxidant capacity being observed for AgNPs obtained using E. sylvaticum. Moreover, the biosynthesized AgNPs showed promising cytotoxic efficacy against cancerous cell line MG63, the AgNPs obtained from E. sylvaticum L. providing the best result, with a LD₅₀ value around 1.5 mg/mL.

The Implication of Reactive Oxygen Species and Antioxidants in Knee Osteoarthritis

Knee osteoarthritis (KOA) is a chronic multifactorial pathology and a current and essential challenge for public health, with a negative impact on the geriatric patient's quality of life. The pathophysiology is not fully known; therefore, no specific treatment has been found to date. The increase in the number of newly diagnosed cases of KOA is worrying, and it is essential to reduce the risk factors and detect those with a protective role in this context. The destructive effects of free radicals consist of the acceleration of chondrosenescence and apoptosis. Among other risk factors, the influence of redox imbalance on the homeostasis of the osteoarticular system is highlighted. The evolution of KOA can be correlated with oxidative stress markers or antioxidant status. These factors reveal the importance of maintaining a redox balance for the joints and the whole body's health, emphasizing the importance of an individualized therapeutic approach based on antioxidant effects. This paper aims to present an updated picture of the implications of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in KOA from pathophysiological and biochemical perspectives, focusing on antioxidant systems that could establish the premises for appropriate treatment to restore the redox balance and improve the condition of patients with KOA.

Neuroprotective and Antioxidant Enhancing Properties of Selective Equisetum Extracts

The sterile stems belonging to the Equisetum species are often used in traditional medicine of various nations, including Romanians. They are highly efficient in treating urinary tract infections, cardiovascular diseases, respiratory tract infections, and medical skin conditions due to their content of polyphenolic derivatives that have been isolated. In this regard, this study aimed to provide the chemical composition of the extracts obtained from the Equisetum species (E. pratense, E. sylvaticum, E. telmateia) and to investigate the biological action in vitro and in vivo. For the chemical characterization of the analyzed Equisetum species extracts, studies were performed by using ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography (UHPLC-DAD). In vitro evaluation of the antioxidant activity of the plant extracts obtained from these species of Equisetum genus was determined. The neuroprotective activity of these three ethanolic extracts from the Equisetum species using zebrafish tests was determined in vivo. All obtained results were statistically significant. The results indicate that E. sylvaticum extract has a significant antioxidant activity; whereas, E. pratense extract had anxiolytic and antidepressant effects significantly higher than the other two extracts used. All these determinations indicate promising results for the antioxidant in vitro tests and neuroprotective activity of in vivo tests, particularly mediated by their active principles.

Biosynthesis of Silver Nanoparticles Using Licorice Extract and Evaluation of their Antioxidant Activity

This paper presents a simple and eco-friendly method for the synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra) root extract and the evaluation of their antioxidant activity. UV-Vis spectroscopy, FTIR, TEM and EDX methods were used to characterize the AgNPs. The UV-Vis spectrum shows the characteristic surface plasmon resonance peak at 430 nm. The synthesized AgNPs have a spherical shape and are capped by biomolecules. Furthermore, FTIR spectra and EDX analysis demonstrate the presence of phytochemicals from extract which act as reducing and stabilizing agents. The presence of elemental silver was demonstrated by the peak at 3 keV from EDX spectra. The results following the DPPH free radical scavenging assay suggest that AgNPs present a better antioxidant activity compared to that of the extract. Therefore, the obtained results confirm that licorice represents a source of biomolecules that can be used for synthesizing AgNPs with antioxidant potential.

Multiple Fatal Intoxications Caused by Improper Consumption of an Alcoholic Para-Pharmaceutical Product

Ingestion of cheap para-pharmaceuticals (such as disinfectants, deodorizing solutions, etc.) which are designed only for external use is an unfortunate habit encountered in the recent decades in the economically disadvantaged areas of Romania inhabited by poor, uninformed, and sanitary uneducated population. These para-pharmaceutical products are based on different concentrations of ethanol. Occasionally, the manufacturer modifies the product formula, or worse omits on the label that the ethanol was replaced with methanol, resulting in mass poisoning with a large number of casualties. The authors present a case of mass poisoning by methanol that occurred during one month and resulted in 40 cases of methanol intoxication. Only 5 out of the 40 victims survived the intoxication. All the dead victims underwent medico-legal autopsy which revealed only general features, liable to poisoning. The toxicological examination result was positive for methanol in all the cases. All the intoxicated victims were homeless; they were heavy ethanol consumers, especially of the product rubbing alcohol. The male: female ratio was 31:4 and the age range was between 25 and 70 years old, with an average of 50 years. All the victims were hospitalized in deep coma, showing obvious pathological changes specific to chronic ethanol consumption. Conclusions: some alcoholic para-pharmaceutical products manufactured for external use are ingested by chronic ethanol drinkers. When these products contain methanol, they can cause severe intoxication followed by an impressively large number of deaths.

The Comparative Study of Equisetum pratense, E. sylvaticum, E. telmateia: Accumulation of Silicon, Antioxidant and Antimicrobial Screening

The objective of the current study is represented by the determination of silica and a phytochemical screening of phenolic derivates of some Equisetum species. The antioxidant and antimicrobial activity for Equisetum pratense Ehrh.,, Equisetum sylvaticum L. and Equisetum telmateia Ehrh. (sin. Equisetum maximum Lam.) were also investigated. The concentration of silicon (Si) in plants was determined by the spectrophotometric method using previous treatment with NaOH 50% both for the stem and the nodal branches [1]. Results obtained varied from 95.12 to 162.10 SiO2 mg/g dry plant which represents 4.44% to 7.58% Si/100g dry sample. Two types of total extracts were obtained using different solvents and were subjected to qualitative and quantitative chemical analysis considering total phenolic content [2]. The highest concentration of investigated compounds was found in the methanolic extract, E. sylvaticum, 196.5mg/g dry sample. Antioxidant activity was monitored spectrophotometrically and expressed in terms of IC50 (�g/mL) [3]. Values gathered ranged from 261.7 to 429.5 �g/mL. The highest capacity to neutralized DPPH radicals was found in E. sylvaticum. In vitro antimicrobial activity was determined using difusimetric method [4]. Testing was performed on four microorganisms: three strains of bacteria and one species of fungi. Different effects were noticed against the bacteria, furthermore the methanol extract appeared to be most efficient. All extracts showed significand antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus (ATCC 25923) and Candida albicans (ATCC 90028) and weak to no activity against Pseudomonas aeruginosa (ATCC 27853) and Escherichia coli (ATCC 25922).

Chemical Profile and Antioxidant Activity of Zinnia elegans Jacq. Fractions

Zinnia elegans (syn. Zinnia violacea) is a common ornamental plant of the Asteraceae family, widely cultivated for the impressive range of flower colors and persistent bloom. Given its uncomplicated cultivation and high adaptability to harsh landscape conditions, we investigated the potential use of Z. elegans as a source of valuable secondary metabolites. Preliminary classification of compounds found in a methanolic extract obtained from inflorescences of Z. elegans cv. Caroussel was accomplished using HR LC-MS techniques. The extract was then subjected to solid-phase extraction and separation using Sephadex LH-20 column chromatography, which resulted in several fractions further investigated for their antioxidant properties through lipoxygenase inhibition and metal chelating activity assays. Moreover, following additional purification procedures, structures of some active ingredients were established by NMR spectroscopy. The investigated fractions contained polyphenolic compounds such as chlorogenic acids and apigenin, kaempferol, and quercetin glycosides. Antioxidant assays showed that certain fractions exhibit moderate 15-LOX inhibition (Fr 2, IC50 = 18.98 μg/mL) and metal chelation (e.g., Fr 1-2, EC50 = 0.714-1.037 mg/mL) activities as compared to positive controls (20.25 μg/mL for kaempferol and 0.068 mg/mL for EDTA, respectively). For Fr 2, the 15-LOX inhibition activity seems to be related to the abundance of kaempferol glycosides. The NMR analyses revealed the presence of a kaempferol 3-O-glycoside, and a guanidine alkaloid previously not described in this species.

Natural Macromolecules with Protective and Antitumor Activity

This review summarizes the literature data regarding plant lectins as novel drug sources in the prevention or treatment of cancer. Moreover, such compounds have been described as natural toxins that possess different biological activities (cytotoxic, antitumor, antimutagenic and anticarcinogenic properties). This activity depends greatly on their structure and affinity. Most of the mushroom heterosides are known as β-glucans with β-(1→3)-glycosidic bonds. It is thought that their conformation, bonds, molecular size can modulate the immune response by triggering different receptors. The mechanism on normal and tumor cells of various plant and mushroom polysaccharides and lectins is briefly presented in this paper.

Armillaria mellea: phenolic content, in vitro antioxidant and antihyperglycemic effects

Armillaria mellea, known as honey mushroom, has been used both as food and medicine.

AIM

In this work, the ethanolic and hydromethanolic extracts from Armillaria mellea fruiting bodies were investigated for their phenolic content, antioxidant and antihyperglycemic effects (in vitro studies).

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The total phenolics were quantified using Folin-Ciocalteu assay. The antioxidant activity was evaluated by testing the free radical scavenging capacity, reducing power and ferrous ion chelating ability; in addition, the capacity to inhibit 15-lipoxygenase was also assessed. The antihyperglycemic activity was investigated by α-glucosidase assay.

RESULTS

Total phenolic contents of 21.68 ± 0.06 and 5.70 ± 0.28 mg/g were determined in the hydromethanolic and ethanolic extracts, respectively. The hydromethanolic extract showed higher free radical scavenging and reducing abilities (EC50 = 452.6 ± 2.7, 140.57 ± 1.45 and 129.45 ± 0.98 μg/mL in DPPH, ABTS and reducing power assays, respectively). The ethanolic extract proved to be more efficient in the ferrous ion chelation, 15-lipoxygenase and α-glucosidase inhibition assays (EC55 = 67.93 ± 0.35, 290.93 ± 2.05 and 8.54 ± 0.06 μg/mL, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

Armillaria mellea extracts showed antioxidant and antihyperglycemic potential in in vitro models and therefore they are promising candidates for the development of dietary supplements and pharmaceutical products.

In vitro study on the antioxidant activity of a polyphenol-rich extract from Pinus brutia bark and its fractions

A crude hydromethanolic extract from Pinus brutia bark and its fractions (diethyl ether, ethyl acetate, n-butanol, and aqueous fractions) were studied with regard to their phenolic content and antioxidant activities. The total phenolics and proanthocyanidins in each extract were quantified by spectrophotometric methods; the polyphenolic profile was analyzed by RP-HPLC-DAD-ESI-MS. All extracts were tested with regard to their ability to scavenge free radicals (ABTS radical cation, superoxide and hydroxyl radicals), reduce ferric ions, and inhibit 15-lipoxygenase. P. brutia bark extracts had high phenolic contents (303.79±7.34-448.90±1.39 mg/g). Except diethyl ether extract, all other extracts contained proanthocyanidins ranging from 225.79±3.94 to 250.40±1.44 mg/g. Several polyphenols were identified by RP-HPLC-DAD-ESI-MS: taxifolin in diethyl ether extract, a taxifolin-O-hexoside, catechin, procyanidin dimers, and trimers in ethyl acetate extract. Except diethyl ether extract, all other extracts were effective scavengers of superoxide and hydroxyl radicals (EC₅₀=33.5±1.1-54.93±2.85 μg/mL and 0.47±0.06-0.6±0.0 mg/mL, respectively). All extracts had noticeable 15-lipoxygenase inhibitory effects (EC₅₀=22.47±0.75-34.43±2.25 μg/mL). We conclude that P. brutia bark is very promising for the dietary supplements industry due to its high free radical scavenging and 15-lipoxygenase inhibitory effects.

Contributions regarding the leaf histo-anatomy of some Pelargonium species

Pelargonium L. genra (Fam. Geraniaceae) includes over 250 species, most of it native to southern Africa. Nowadays, four perennial species are cultivated in Romania as ornamental plants. Our aim was to establish the main characteristics and differences that occur between Pelargonium zonale, P. hispidum, P. grandiflorum, P. peltatum and P. radens. All in all, the quantitative differences (regarding the leaf-stalk, blade and trichomes) have a taxonomical value for all five species included in the research.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The plant material was represented by fresh leaves harvested from 5 species of Pelargonium: P. peltatum (L.) Aiton, P. radens H.E. Moore, P. grandiflorum (Andrz.) Willd., P. hispidum. (anthesis phase) and preserved in ethanol 70%. Using a dissecting microscope, sections were made through leaf blade surface and cross sections of/ for leaf stalk and blade.

RESULTS

The common characteristics of the leaf is the palmatilobate blade with long petiole. Although many studies regarded glandular trichomes from Pelargonium leaves, most of the leaf structures are still unknown. The most important for the quality and quantity of essential oil extracted from Pelargonium sp. are trichoms.

[Microbiological evaluation of some commercial brands of Chamomillae floss]

Different strains of microorganisms contaminate medicinal herb, and theirs, enzymes could modify the normal composition of herbal products.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

We evaluated the microbiological quality of 12 samples of Chamomillae floss commercialized in, markets and specific stores. Microbiological quality has been evaluated according European Pharmacopoeia rules. In all samples we determined the total number of germs, total number of fungi and we evaluated the presence of coliform bacilli, respectively Staphylococcus species.

RESULTS

For all samples, the total number of germs was under the limits with variation between 320 CFU/g (P 4) and 14000 CFU/g (P 11). The total number of fungi was under the limits; in most of samples, we detected Penicillium sp. and Aspergillus sp. In 4 samples the total number of Escherichia coli strains was over the limits (100 CFU/g).

CONCLUSIONS

An important decrease of total number of coliform bacilli was observed after boiling water has been added but the total number of germs was decreased insignificantly, so these extracts are not very safe for patient especially when vegetal products contain a great number of germs.

Serum zinc and copper levels in some dermatological diseases

Zinc (Zn) and copper (Cu) are essential metals for biochemical processes in the body. Many researchers have main interest in these two metals because it was establish that they are involved in immunological and inflammatory reactions.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The study comprised 49 patients of Dermatology Clinic from Iaşi with different skin diseases (21 with psoriasis and 28 with varicose ulcer), during January - May 2006. The patients, both sexes, had ages between 19 and 81 years old. We determined serum Zn and Cu levels by atomic absorption spectrophotometry. The results were expressed in mg/L and we calculated Cu/Zn ratio, too; the values were compared with 50 healthy controls.

RESULTS

In psoriasis, serum Zn and Cu mean levels (5.61 mg/L, respectively 1.27 mg/L) were higher as compared to controls (significance level p=0.04); the mean Cu/Zn ratio was 0.81 in psoriasis and 0.96 in control group. In varicose ulcer, mean levels were significantly increased (Zn-7.62 mg/L, Cu- 1.38 mg/L) compared to control group (Zn-0.81 mg/L, Cu-0.75 mg/L) and serum normal values; the mean Cu/Zn ratio was 1.00. 18 of all patients with psoriasis and varicose ulcer had higher serum Zn and Cu levels than normal values.

[The amount of sulphites in wild mushrooms from Iaşi and Suceava districts]

As a part of a larger study regarding the contamination of mushrooms from Moldavia by chemical pollutants, we aimed at proposing sulphites determination in samples harvested from different zones from Iaşi and Suceava districts, from April to September 2005. We analysed elements (gills, cap, stem) of 68 mushrooms (48 different species). The sulphites were extracted with water, and were analysed spectrophotometrically in the aqueous extract by West-Gaeke method. Results were expressed in microg SO2/g dried product at 105 degrees C. Higher levels of sulphites were found in Clitopilus prunulus (865.36-stem) and Cantharelus cibarius (444.49-cap) for very good edible mushrooms; in Chalciporus piperatus (1016.13-stem) and Pseudohydnum gelatinosum (737.17-all mushroom) for mediocre edible mushrooms; in Panaeolus sphinctrinus (490.11-stem) for toxic ones. In 34 samples (50.74%), the highest level of sulphites was noted mostly in the mushroom stem than in its cap. The mushrooms capacity of sulphite accumulation is very varied, and the results do not allow a correlation between the amount of sulphites found in stem and the one found in cap or gills.

[Lead, nickel and manganese content in edible mushrooms]

The mushrooms accumulate from environmental different kind of pollutants depend by their species, growth phase, and ecological category. For this reason we analysed 55 samples of mushrooms (39 species) with different type of edible proprieties, harvested from Suceava and Iaşi County. Samples dried to 105 degree C had been mineralised with nitric acid, by SAA in mineralised had been determined manganese, lead and nickel. From samples 52 (94.54%) contain manganese, 36 contain lead (65.45%) and 28 contain nickel (50.90%). Over 50% of samples contain the greatest quantity of metals in cap comparative with stalk. The highest quantity of metals had been determined in poor edible mushrooms. All samples contain lead over 3 mg/kg with maximum in Chalciporus piperatus (SV 3)--237.40, Clitopilus prunulus-(SV 2)--109.28. The most contaminated samples had been harvested from Rarău Mountainous-Valea Caselor and Bucium-Dobrovăţ Forest.

[The amount of nitrites in edible mushrooms harvested from Bistriţa Valley]

In our study has been determined the amount of nitrites in edible mushrooms which grown in different zones from Bistriţa Valley, near to the "Fibrex-nylon" Complex Savinesti. The nitrites has been extracted with water, in the aqueous extract we determined spectrophotometrically nitrites with Griesz Reagent. The results were expressed in mg nitrites/g dried product (105 degrees C). We analysed 41 samples of edible mushrooms (22 samples harvested on october 2001, 19 harvested on september 2002). The nitrites concentrations in mushrooms are between 2.06 and 49.88 (samples harvested on october 2001), between 1.98 and 31.84 (samples harvested on september 2002). The highest values for samples harvested on october 2001 was determined in Laccaria lacata, Collybia butiracea, Hygrophorus chrysodon, Russula nigricans, for the samples harvested on september 2002 the highest values was determined in Boletus granulatus, Macrolepiota procera.

[Delta-aminolevulinic acid measurement in people professionally exposed to lead]

Lead is an enzymatic toxic agent, one of its main effects being the perturbation of the porphyrine biosynthesis. This perturbation can be easily spotted using the rapid method of dosing the delta-aminolevulinic acid in urine (ALA). In this paper there are presented the results of the biotoxicological screening on a segment of population professionally exposed to lead. The exposed group contains 65 persons (50 men and 15 women) with the ages between 20 and 52, employed at different gas stations. Simultaneously, there was determined the concentration of the delta-aminolevulinic acid in urine on a witness group made up of 37 voluntary persons (22 men and 15 women) with the ages between 16 and 58. The delta-aminolevulinic acid in urine was ascertained by spectrophotometry method with Ehrlich reagent. The obtained data were statistically processed by "t student" test. At the exposed group the delta-aminolevulinic acid in urine ranges between 0.14 and 17.0 mg/l, and for each sex between 0.14-17.0 mg/l at men and 4.7-16.5 mg/l at women. The delta-aminolevulinic acid in urine of the witness group ranges between 0.2 and 8.1 mg/l, and for each sex 0.2-5.73 mg/l at men and 1.44-8.1 mg/l at women. The difference between the average value (9.45 +/- 4.47) of the exposed group and the median value of the witness group (3.85 +/- 2.05) is very significant (P < 0.01).

[Super-oxide dismutase and catalase in smokers]

In this work, the results of a study concerning the variation of superoxid dismutase (SOD) and catalase activities to smokers are presented. The study has been performed on volunteers, blood donors, men, between 20-60 years. In the smokers group, 20 donors who smoke over 10 cigarettes/day over 5 years have been included. In the control group, 12 donors who never smoked or stopped to smoke over 4 years have been included. SOD and catalase activities have been determined spectrophotometrically from erythrocytes lysis; the enzymatic activity has been reported to g Hb. The results show a decreasing of SOD activity to smokers reporting to the control group, totally with 17.7% (from 69.6 +/- 18.6 to 57.3 +/- 26.6 U/gHb). Comparing with control group, the catalase has been induced to smokers with 0.04%, from 8.82 +/- 3.32 to 9.18 +/- 8.66 x 10(3) U/gHb. Statistically, the variations are insignificant and we suspect the interferation of alcohol as an important oxidative stress inductor.

[Malondialdehyde and free thiol groups from smokers' plasma]

The nicotine and oxidants from cigarette smoke, could generate oxidative stress in human body. In our study, we determined malondialdehyde and free thiol groups in smokers plasma, the experiment was effectuated to blood donors, smokers (20 persons) and non-smokers (12 persons). The determinations was effectuated with 2-thiobarbituric acid for malondialdehyde and with 5,5'-DTNB for thiol groups. The results was expressed in mmol/L for malondialdehyde and mmol/ml for free thiol groups. Smokers presented higher values for malondialdehyde (1.519 +/- 0.683), than non-smokers (1.362 +/- 0.664). The free thiol groups values was decreased at smokers (0.502 +/- 0.136), than non-smokers (0.517 +/- 0.120). Statistically, insignificant differences (p > 0.05) between smokers and non-smokers, for both parameters, could be determined by the small number of cigarettes smoked (12-15 cigaretts/day), also by the alcohol, because all persons drunk occasionally alcohol.

Variation of carboxyhemoglobin and of thiocyanates in smokers

Smoking is one of the most important public health problems of our times. In this paper, we focus on the watching of smoking effect on carboxyhaemoglobin (COHb) and plasma thiocyanate values. The study was accomplished on two groups of blood donors: smokers, 18 men, between 20-51 years old and controls, non-smokers, 10 men, between 22-55 years old. On the blood samples, there have been spectrophotometrically determined: COHb with palladium chloride by microdiffusion method and haemoglobin (Hb) with Drabkin Reagent. The plasmatic thiocyanates were determined spectrophotometrically by Liebig reaction. The data were processed by "t Student" test. The statistical analysis shows that the obtained average values for the COHb from total Hb in smokers (12.51 +/- 10.19) are higher than the average values of the control group (11.45 +/- 10.34). The plasma thiocyanate (mg %) in the smokers' group presents average values of 2.03 +/- 0.58, higher values than those in the control group (1.68 +/- 0.68). From the analysis of the presented results, we notice that the differences between the two groups are statistically non-significantly. These results may be explained by the existence of many factors, which may influence the values of the biotoxicological indicators, among which we mention: passive smoking, the atmospheric pollution in the urban environment, the presence of the chemical noxae at the work place.

[The effect of chemical noxae on the health status of a group of workers in the chemical industry of Săvineşti]

The paper presents the study on the effect of the industrial xenobiotics against some biochemical indicators, in view to detect, precociously, the probable significant changes. There are presented the medium, minimum, maximum and median value for the following parameters: total proteins, haemoglobin and glucose for 112 workers exposed or not exposed to specific noxae--benzen, phenol, cyclohexanone. The analysis of the results shows decreased values for some workers, even at the inferior limit, in rapport with the normal values, for the parameters studied. These persons have been directed for complex investigations, in view to determine the causes and to establish the adequate treatment.