Anti-microbial functions

The structures and sources of many allelochemicals with anti-microbial activity have been documented (Dixon, 2001 Grayer and Harbome, 1994 Harbome, 1999). In this chapter, evidence for anti-microbial functions of allelochemicals from weed Ageratum conyzoides L. and food crop Oryza sativa L. has been reviewed. Effects of these allelochemicals on related pathogen management in the A. conyzoides intercropped citrus orchard and the paddy ecosystem were discussed. 

The cleansing product group also includes a number of preparations with special anti-microbial functions ... 

There is a restriction on the maximum authorized level of zinc 4-hydroxybenzene sulphonate in deodorants and antiperspirants estabUshed in the EU legislation (European Commission, Council Directive 76/768/CEE, 1976, Annex III), also for zinc pheno-sulphonate, dichlorophene and other substances used in deodorants. Triclosan and other anti-microbial treated in Chapter 5 are considered as preservatives by the EU legislation and their maximum authorized level is restricted (Annex VI) however, they have an additional anti-microbial function for deodorant users. 

Saponins and phenolics also have anti-microbial properties (Chung et ah, 1998) and have been associated with reduced rumen functions (Klita et al., 1996 Reed, 1995), thereby limiting the nutrient quality of forages. Also, carbohydrate complexes with hgnins and other compounds reduce carbohydrate utilization by rumen bacteria (Cornu et al., 1994). The influence of such anti-microbials on rumen functions can affect small intestine characteristics by altering nutrient concentrations (Barry and McNabb, 1999). 

The specific function of many phytochemicals is still unclear however, a considerable number of studies have shown that they are involved in the interaction of plants/pests/diseases. Most plants produce phytochemicals as anti-microbial, antibiotic, insecticidal and hormonal agents either as part of... 

Until recently, epithelial cells were considered to function solely as the ciliated barrier lining in the airways and as conduits for gas exchange at the air/blood interphase. As techniques have improved to isolate and culture these cells and measure their gene products, it has become clear that they have a key role in lung defense and repair. Epithelial cells secrete a number of anti-microbial compounds and immunoregulatory cytokines [52], and are also capable of ingesting and killing bacteria [53],... 

Dakora, F.D., Phillips, D.A. Diverse functions of isoflavonoids in legumes transcend anti-microbial definitions of phytoalexins. Physiol Mol Plant Pathol 1996 49 1-20. 

Because DNA topoisomerases play key roles in cellular processes affecting the topology and organization of intracellular DNA, it is important to define the physiological functions and understand the molecular basis of their action. Moreover, beyond their normal ceUular activities, these enzymes are proven molecular targets for clinically usefiil anti-tumor " and anti-microbial drugs. In this context work on topoisomerases from the parasites has been a growing focus of interest. 

Topical application of compositions comprising sphingolipids, such as ceramides, improves the barrier function and moisture-retaining properties of the skin. Moreover, sphingoid bases exhibit anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial activities, making sphingolipids valuable active ingredients in cosmetic formulations. " ... 

Ionic liquids with dual biological function Sweet and anti-microbial, hydrophobic quaternary ammonium-based salts. New J. Chem. 33 (1), 26-33 (2009). 

At the design stage of the textile products with anti-microbial finishes or modifications, it is important to take into consideration how the product will be prepared and to what stresses and strains it will be subjected, in addition to the function of the textile. Chemical, thermal and mechanical effects may impair its biological effectiveness. 

Quigdao Hengtong markets X-silver, a silvered fibre (Hengtong, 2014) aimed primarily at anti-microbial and shielding functions. Nobel Biomaterials markets ContaX, a multi-filament highly conductive natural silver-based fibre (ContaX, 2014) that is... 

To develop wood with high function and remarkable properties such as dimensional stability, termite resistance, anti-microbial property, photostabihty and fire-resistance, we have tried to prepare inorganic composites ofwood without losing characteristic properties of the wood as seen in its porous structure. In spite ofthe same inorganic substances used, the observed properties are different if inorganic substances are distributed differently in the wood cells. 

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