bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
VALIDATION OF THE SPECTROFOTOMETRIC METHOD FOR THE DETERMINATION OF QUANTITATIVE COMPOSITION OF S-2,6-DIAGENOXIC ACID OF 3-METHYL-1,2,4-TRIAZOLYL- 5-THIOACETATE
Authors: Ivanovna Kucherenko Lyudmila , Sergeevich Idnenko Oleksandr , Vladimirovna Khromylova Olga
Published: September 2018

Objective: The aim of the work was to determine the validation characteristics for the designed procedure for quantitation of the (S)-2,6- diaminohexanoic acid substance, 3-methyl-1,2,4-triazolyl-5-thioacetate, by absorption spectrophotometry in the ultraviolet region.Methods: For study purposes, the substance (S)-2,6-diaminohexanoic acid of 3-methyl-1,2,4-triazolyl-5-thioacetate and a standard sample (SS) obtained from the State Enterprise “Chemical Reagents Plant” of the Scientific-Technological Complex “Institute of Single Crystals” of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, was used. In the course of our work, we used chemical, physical, physicochemical (absorption spectrophotometry in the ultraviolet region), and statistical methods of analysis. The study was carried out at the Laboratory for Standardization and Technology of Medicines at the Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry at the Zaporizhia State Medical University (Ukraine).Results: In previous studies, we have developed a technique for spectrophotometric determination of the quantitative composition of (S)-2,6- diaminohexanoic acid of 3-methyl-1,2,4-triazolyl-5-thioacetate. The results of the conducted studies showed that the absorption curve in the UV region of the substance solution has a maximum absorption, namely: λ = 238 nm. The results of the quantitation of the substance (S)-2,6-diaminohexanoic acid of 3-methyl-1,2,4-triazolyl-5-thioacetate prove that our technique is accurate and reproducible and meets the current requirements. In order for the developed methodology to ensure consistent and accurate analysis results, its validation was carried out. According to the requirements of the State Pharmacopoeia of Ukraine (DFU) (2 editions), the developed method for the quantitation of the substance was checked for such validation characteristics as specificity, linearity, range of use, accuracy, correctness, and robustness.Conclusion: As a result of the work, it was proved that the developed method of the quantitation of the substance (S)-2,6-diaminohexanoic acid of 3-methyl-1,2,4-triazolyl-5-thioacetate by spectrophotometric method is valid.
EVALUATION OF THE CYTOCHROME P450 INHIBITORY EFFECT OF THYME OLEORESIN FROM THYMUS VULGARIS L. - AN IN VITRO STUDY
Authors: R Adeline Persia , Roy Anitha , T Lakshmi
Published: September 2018

Objective: The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of thyme oleoresin on cytochrome P450 (CYP3A4) enzyme.Materials and Methods: The different concentrations of thyme (5–100 μg/ml) were examined for its inhibitory property toward cytochrome P450 isoform (CYP3A4). Thyme, potassium phosphate buffer, CYP450 reagent, and substrate 7-Benzyloxy-4-trifluoromethylcoumarin were added to a 96-well plate. The mixtures were preincubated for 20 min at room temperature. The fluorescent intensities of the products were measured by PerkinElmer Enspire fluorescence reader using an excitation and emission wavelength of 405 nm and 460 nm, respectively. Values are expressed as mean ± standard error mean (n=3). IC50 was calculated by plotting concentrations of thyme against the corresponding percent inhibition.Results: All the tested concentrations of thyme showed inhibitory effect against CYP3A4 in a dose-dependent manner. At 5 μg/ml, it showed a percentage inhibition of 1.82±0.61, whereas 100 μg/ml showed 66.05±0.16. The IC50 value of thyme for CYP3A4 inhibitory activity was found to be 39.14 μg/ml.Conclusion: This study proves that the inhibitory effect of thyme oleoresin on cytochrome P450. The inhibitory effects of thyme indicate the possibilities of herb-drug interaction if this extract is coadministered with prescribed drugs that are metabolized by CYP3A4.
MICRO RAMAN SPECTROSCOPIC ANALYSIS OF LOBULAR CARCINOMA TISSUES
Authors: Reveendran Ambili , Varghese Sanoj , Kumar V Senthil , Ranganathan Venkatesan , Tm Karthikeyan
Published: September 2018

Objective: For the past 20 decades, vibrational spectroscopy based studies are undergoing around the world to detect cancer at the earliest stage. Since vibrational spectroscopic techniques have the ability to measure the biochemical changes occur during the time of mutation, which may be the reason for cell proliferation. Biochemical changes may appear in the tissues and blood before the tumor formation. The objective of this work is to study the potential of Raman spectroscopy to detect biochemical changes in the normal and malignant tissues.Methods: In this research work, 10 Raman spectra were acquired from ex vivo samples of human breast tissue (normal and lobular carcinoma) of 10 patients after the removal during prophylactic mastectomy surgery and biopsy. Data analysis was performed using k-means clustering using SPSS and intensity ratio analysis.Result: Intensity variation in the Raman spectra of normal and malignant tissues clearly indicate that Raman spectra are capable to distinguish between normal and malignant tissues. A number of peaks are more in the case of malignant tissues and the presence of amide I and amide III indicate the predominance of protein in malignant tissues. Intensity ratio analysis and K-means clustering analysis also show the significance of protein in lobular carcinoma tissues.Conclusion: This research work proves the potential of Raman spectroscopy to differentiate between the normal breast tissues and lobular carcinoma tissues.
LOW-GRADE INFLAMMATION IN SUBCLINICAL HYPOTHYROIDISM: ROLE OF HIGHSENSITIVE C-REACTIVE PROTEIN
Authors: Kumar Pradeep , Sharma Preeti , Sharma Rachna , Gupta Gaurav , Chaudhary Anchal
Published: September 2018

Objective: Subclinical hypothyroidism (SCH) patients may present with abnormal lipid profile more specifically in patients having thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) >10 mIU/L. Since the contradiction still lies with patients having TSH <10 mIU/L, so the role of high-sensitive C-reactive protein (Hs- CRP) may be important with the prediction of inflammatory cardiovascular risk.Methods: Recently diagnosed 30 SCH patients both male and female were recruited and compared 30 normal healthy adults. Age and body mass index (BMI) of the study population were noted. Thyroid profile including TSH, FT4, and T3 was measured by an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Total cholesterol, triglycerides, and high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol were measured by the CHOD-POD method, GPO-PAP method, and CHOD-POD/phosphotungstic method. Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol and very low-density cholesterol were measured by Friedewald formula. Lipoprotein ratios were also calculated. An ELISA was also used for the estimation of Hs-CRP.Results: The significant results were obtained in this study. BMI was significantly (<0.01) elevated in patients’ group compared to the control group. In the thyroid profile, TSH was significantly (<0.05) different between the groups. Total cholesterol, triglycerides, and LDL-cholesterol were significantly (<0.01) elevated in the case group. A significantly lower concentration of HDL cholesterol was observed in SCH patients when compared with control subjects. There was an elevated concentration of lipoprotein ratios in patients group. The mean concentration of Hs-CRP was highly significant between the groups. The level was higher in the case group compared to the control group. In patients’ group, there was a positive association (β- 0.36) (confidence interval 95%–0.002–0.536) between TSH and Hs-CRP. This association was highly significant.Conclusion: SCH patients having TSH <10 μIU/ml were characterized by dyslipidemia and elevated Hs-CRP. Increased lipoprotein ratios and Hs-CRP may promote low-grade inflammation in SCH patients, by which cardiovascular risk can be developed.
IS MULLIGAN’S SUSTAINED NATURAL APOPHYSEAL GLIDES (SNAGS) OR MUSCLE ENERGY TECHNIQUE IS EFFECTIVE IN THE NON-SURGICAL MANAGEMENT OF CERVICOGENIC HEADACHE? A TWO-GROUP PRETEST-POSTTEST RANDOMIZED CONTROLLED TRIAL
Authors: Kirthika S Veena , K Padmanabhan , Sudhakar Selvaraj , Kumar M Vijaya
Published: September 2018

Objective: The purpose of this study is to compare the efficacy of Mulligan’s Glides like sustained natural apophyseal glides and muscle energy technique (MET) in the management of individual with cervicogenic headache (ICH).Methods: A total of 30 ICH were recruited by the simple random sampling to participate in this two-group pretest-posttest, single-blinded randomized clinical study. Recruited ICH was randomly allocated into two groups, Group A and Group B. ICH in Group A was provided with Mulligan’s SNAGs of 3 glides/session/day×5 days/week×4-week duration, while in Group B, ICH received MET for suboccipital muscles for 6 times/session/day×5 days/ week×4 weeks. Both the groups received the common intervention of stretching and strengthening for cervical muscles for 4 weeks. Pain scores (visual analog score [VAS]), disability (headache disability index [HD]), and cervical extension range of motion (ROM) were documented at baseline and 4th week after intervention and analyzed.Results: Group B demonstrated significance difference (p<0.05) in HDI, VAS, and cervical extension ROM when compared to Group A.Conclusion: 4 week MET has the sufficient potential to decrease neck pain, disability, and increase cervical mobility among ICH as a non-surgical management.
ROLE OF HERBAL MEDICINES IN VITILIGO TREATMENT - CURRENT STATUS AND FUTURE PERSPECTIVES
Authors: Narayanaswamy Radhakrishnan , Ismail Intan Safinar
Published: September 2018

Vitiligo is a depigmentation disorder with complex causes. Nonetheless, recent progress has been made to unravel the pathophysiology of vitiligo. In this review, we provide an overview of the currently known herbal medicine for vitiligo treatment and also highlighted the herbs that have been used in clinical trials. In view of traditional uses, herbs such as Ammi visnaga L., Angelica sinensis, Eclipta alba L, Ginkgo biloba, Picrorhiza kurroa Royle Ex Benth, and Psoralea corylifolia L, have been highlighted. Enormous efforts in vitiligo drug discovery are currently needed. Interleukin-17 inhibition, tumor necrosis factor-alpha inhibition, heat shock protein-70i (HSP70i) inhibition, keratinocyte turnover modulators, and regulatory T cells (Tregs) modulators have been discussed as promising new targets for vitiligo drug development. Thus, we strongly believe that this review may be useful for rationalize new herbal drug for vitiligo treatment.
STUDY OF IN VIVO PHARMACOKINETIC DRUG INTERACTIONS OF CURCUMIN ON TACRINE
Authors: Alavala Rajasekhar Reddy , Katahala Prathusha , Thipparapu Ganapathi , Kulandaivelu Umasankar , Boyapati Shireesha , Mantripragada Bhagavan Raju
Published: September 2018

Objective: Tacrine is a potent acetylcholine esterase inhibitor (AChEI), and curcumin has been recently proven to possess AChEI, amyloid β aggregation inhibitory activity in addition to its diverse pharmacodynamic nature. Tacrine undergoes biological transformation by cytochrome P450 (CYP 1A2) to a hydroxy metabolite, which is hepatotoxic. Curcumin is known for its inhibitory nature for various metabolic enzymes along with CYP1A2. The present study was undertaken to evaluate the influence of curcumin on the disposition kinetics of tacrine and to assess its impact on dosage regimen.Methods: It was hypothesized that the simultaneous administration of curcumin and tacrine can minimize the toxicity along with increased absorption of tacrine and curcumin into the biological system during the treatment of Alzheimer’s patients.Results and Discussion: Hence, an attempt was made to develop a simple, precise, accurate, and cost-effective reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography method for simultaneous determination of curcumin and tacrine and also to estimate the effect of curcumin on absorption of tacrine, in rat plasma.Conclusion: Concomitant administration of curcumin with tacrine improved the parameters such as Cmax and AUC, which indicates that the curcumin would improve the absorption of tacrine.
ANTIOXIDANT ACTIVITY AND CARDIOPROTECTIVE ACTIVITY OF BANGUN-BANGUN LEAVES (PLECTRANTHUS AMBOINICUS LOUR.) ETHANOLIC EXTRACT
Authors: Tarigan Modesta Harmoni , Harahap Urip , Dalimunthe Aminah , Nerdy Nerdy
Published: September 2018

Objectives: The objectives of this study were to determine the antioxidant activity and cardioprotective activity of bangun-bangun leaves ethanolic extract.Methods: Bangun-bangun leaves ethanolic extract was obtained by maceration process. The antioxidant activity test was performed by 2,2’-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) free radical scavenging method with various concentrations of extract. The absorbance was measured by visible spectrophotometric method and calculated the inhibitory concentration (IC50) value for antioxidant activity analysis. Cardioprotective activity test was performed by measuring the cardiac troponin T (cTnT) level, creatine kinase-muscle/brain (CK-MB) level, and histology of the heart tissue. Animals induced with doxorubicin at the 8th day and the 9th day, bangun-bangun leaves ethanolic extract was administered from the 1st day to the 9th day with various doses of extract.Results: Bangun-bangun leaves ethanolic extract had IC50 value of 57.79 μg/mL. Difference dose of bangun-bangun leaves ethanolic extract shows difference cardioprotective activity. Bangun-bangun leaves ethanolic extract at dose 300 mg/kg bw did not differ significantly to the positive control group and normal group. The higher the dose of an extract the greater the decrease in cTnT and CK-MB levels and increase protection against heart damage.Conclusion: Bangun-bangun leaves ethanolic extract had strong antioxidant and had cardioprotective activity.
AN EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN APPROACH FOR OPTIMIZATION OF MODIFIED COLORIMETRIC FIRST-ORDER DERIVATIVE METHOD FOR ESTIMATION OF SERRALYSIN IN BULK AND PHARMACEUTICAL FORMULATION
Authors: B Kulkarni Manasi , Anagha M Joshi
Published: September 2018

Objective: The aim of the present work is to use experimental design to screen and optimize experimental variables for developing a colorimetric first-order derivative method for determining content of serralysin (SER) using biuret and Folin–Ciocalteu phenol reagent for stable color development. The method is based on the reaction of peptide bond in the protein with Biuret reagent in alkaline medium and further reaction of remaining tryptophan and tyrosine residues with Folin–Ciocalteu Phenol reagent to form a stable blue-colored complex (first-order derivative λmax 620 nm).Materials and Methods: A two-level full factorial design was utilized to screen the effect of Volume of NaOH (A), volume of biuret reagent (B), volume of Folin–Ciocalteu phenol reagent (C), and concentration of NaOH (D) on the formation of blue-colored SER - reagent complex (response - absorbance). A box Behnken experimental design with response surface methodology was then utilized to evaluate the main interaction and quadratic effects of these factors on the selected response.Results: With the help of a response surface plot and contour plot, the optimum values of the selected factors were determined and used for further experiments. These values were volume of NaOH (A) of 1.0 mL, volume of biuret reagent (B) of 0.25 mL, and volume of Folin–Ciocalteu phenol reagent (C) of 10 μL. The proposed method was validated according to the ICH Q2(R1) method validation guidelines. The developed colorimetric first-order derivative method was found to be simple, accurate, rapid, sensitive, precise, and economic. Further optimization of the method with experimental design approach makes it convenient for use in laboratory.Conclusion: The results of present study have clearly shown that an experimental design approach may be effectively applied to the optimization of a modified visible spectrophotometric method for estimation of SER in bulk and in pharmaceutical formulation with the least number of experimental runs possible. The method can be employed successfully for the estimation of SER in both bulk and tablet dosage form.
PREGNANCY RATE FOLLOWING LUTEAL PHASE SUPPORT IN POLYCYSTIC OVARY WOMEN USING LETROZOLE WITH OR WITHOUT GONADOTROPIN AS OVULATION INDUCTION
Authors: Alizzi Fadia J
Published: September 2018

Objective: The objective of the study was to evaluate the effect of luteal phase progesterone supplementation on pregnancy rates in anovulatory infertile polycystic ovary women using letrozole with or without gonadotropin as ovulation induction (OI).Method: A prospective randomized clinical study conducted in the infertility clinic - Al-Yarmouk Teaching Hospital, Baghdad/Iraq from June 2016 to January 2018. A total of 149 infertile polycystic ovary women who achieved ovulation using letrozole alone or with gonadotropin as OI protocol enrolled. Accordingly, the study group divided into two: Group A (letrozole group, no=99) and Group B (letrozole gonadotropin group, no=50). After triggering with human Chorionic Gonadotropin, the women in each group were randomly divided into two subgroup women with luteal phase support (LPS) and women without. The primary outcome measure was pregnancy rate.Results: The study shows that pregnancy rate was higher with letrozole group using LPS although the difference did not reach statistical significant (p=0.08). After adjustment of possible confounders; patients receiving letrozole with gonadotropin with LPS had significantly higher successful pregnancy rate.Conclusion: Administration of LPS after OI in infertile polycystic ovarian syndrome women may improve pregnancy rate.
IN VITRO ANTIFUNGAL ACTIVITY OF FLOWER EXTRACT OF PANDANUS ODORATISSIMUS AGAINST DERMATOPHYTIC FUNGI
Authors: Babu Geethavani , Singaravelu Balamuruganvelu , Vallapu Sreenivasalu Reddy , Ramasundaram Srikumar
Published: September 2018

Objective: The present study aimed to evaluate the antifungal activity of Pandanus odoratissimus oil against dermatophytic fungi, and it was compared against the two commonly used antifungal agent’s fluconazole and griseofulvin.Methods: A total of seven strains of dermatophytes were tested for antifungal activity using oil extracted from the flower of P. odoratissimus by using agar-well diffusion method and the zone of inhibition was compared with antifungal agent’s fluconazole and griseofulvin. Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) was determined using the tube-dilution method.Results and Conclusion: The zone of inhibition varied from 16.32 to 19.76 mm for fluconazole, 12.12–18.16 mm for griseofulvin, and 2.5–9.59 mm and 7.63–12.88 mm for 2.5 mg/ml and 5 mg/ml of P. odoratissimus extract, respectively. Epidermophyton floccosum and Trichophyton violaceum showed the lowest MIC value of 0.15 mg/ml. The results of our study have shown that the extract from P. odoratissimus can work significantly better against fungal diseases caused by dermatophytes. It was also found that it acts as a perfect alternative to the currently available antifungals such as fluconazole and griseofulvin.
ANALYSIS OF COMPLEX CHROMOSOMAL ABNORMALITIES IN A CASE OF MULTIPLE MYELOMA USING SPECTRAL KARYOTYPING
Authors: Govindasamy Perumal , Kulshreshtha Pooja S , Pandurangan Prabu , Tarigopula Anil , Kadandale Jayarama S , Samuel Chandra R
Published: September 2018

Objective: It was proposed to determine the chromosomal abnormalities in a 49-year-old male patient with multiple myeloma (MM) employing both conventional and advanced molecular cytogenetic techniques.Methods: GTG-banding and spectral karyotyping (SKY) on fixed metaphases obtained from LPS-stimulated bone marrow cells and interphase fluorescence in situ hybridization (iFISH) on unsorted marrow cells were carried out to identify genetic markers of prognostic significance.Results: The abnormal chromosomes observed through conventional cytogenetics could be resolved with SKY technique. The translocation t(4;14) (p16;q32) indicating FGFR3/IGH fusion and deletion of 13q14.3 was noticed using iFISH. The genetic abnormalities confirmed a poor prognostic outcome in the patient who died within 6 months of diagnosis.Conclusion: This report emphasizes the need for multicolor FISH techniques besides iFISH to resolve complex abnormalities and to identify cryptic aberrations of importance in risk stratification of MM patients.
DIFFERENT VOLUMES AND CONCENTRATIONS IN FIXED DOSES OF BUPIVACAINE IN LUMBOSACRAL EPIDURAL IN RELATION TO CRANIAL SPREAD IN LIVE DOGS
Authors: Derossi Rafael , Hermeto Larissa Correa , Jardim Paulo Henrique De Affonseca , Escobar Lucas Latta , Menezes Pedro Henrique Navarette
Published: September 2018

Objective: The objective of this study was to assess whether the volume or concentration of local anesthetic influences its spread and quality of lumbosacral epidural blockade when the total drug dose is fixed.Methods: A total of 30 healthy bitches, undergoing elective ovariohysterectomy received a lumbosacral epidural block with a fixed dose of 0.5 mg/kg b.w. bupivacaine after general anesthesia induction with propofol. Treatment 1 group (low volume, high concentration [LVHC], n=15) received 0.2 mL/kg b.w. of 0.25% bupivacaine, whereas treatment 2 group (high volume, low concentration [HVLC], n=15) received 0.3 ml/kg b.w. of 0.167% bupivacaine. Both solutions contained radio-opaque dye. Heart rate, blood pressure, respiratory rate, rectal temperature, cranial spread, first analgesic rescue, and motor blockade were determined at predetermined intervals.Results: At 5 min, the dorsal cranial spread levels of bupivacaine confirmed by radiographic examination were T8 (T1–T10) for HVLC treatment and T8 (T6–T10) for LVHC treatment (p=0.957). However, there was a significant difference (p=0.029) in the ventral spread levels between HVLC treatment (T2; C7-T6) and LVHC treatment (T6; T5–T11). The first analgesic rescue was needed after 249±58 min in the LVHC treatment group and after 179±32 min in the HVLC treatment group (p=0.0005).Conclusion: It was concluded, if the total dose is fixed, then administration of an HVLC bupivacaine local anesthetic solution in the lumbosacral epidural space seems to produce effective post-operative analgesia for ovariohysterectomy surgery in bitches.
IN VITRO AND IN VIVO ANTIANGIOGENIC EFFECT OF ARTOCARPUS HETEROPHYLLUS SEED EXTRACT
Authors: M Thiruselvi , Durairaj Brindha
Published: September 2018

Objective: Angiogenesis the formation of new blood vessels from the pre-existing vasculature plays a major role in tumor growth, invasion, and metastasis of cancer diseases. The current research was designed for the inhibition of angiogenesis, which can provide a novel way to inhibit tumor growth and metastasis in cancer.Methods: The antiangiogenic properties of serial concentrations of the hydroethanolic extract of Artocarpus heterophyllus were examined in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) using a tube formation assay in vitro and in a Matrigel plug assay as in vivo model.Results: Hydroethanolic extract of A. heterophyllus significantly inhibited vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)-mediated angiogenesis in the HUVECs in culture dose-dependently. Further, the new blood vessel formation was observed to be inhibited by the extract at 100 mg/kg p.o. in Matrigel plug model in C57BL/6 mice. However, the effect was enhanced in higher concentration (500 mg/kg p.o.) demonstrating the in vivo antiangiogenic activity of the extract.Conclusion: This study demonstrated that the hydroethanolic seed extract of A. heterophyllus strongly inhibited the angiogenesis in HUVECs. Moreover, the extract significantly inhibited the VEGF production in HUVECs, confirming their possible antiangiogenic mechanism.
LARVICIDAL ACTIVITY OF BACILLUS THURINGIENSIS ISOLATED FROM Bt COTTON RHIZOSPHERE SOIL AGAINST ANOPHELES MOSQUITO LARVAE (CULICIDAE)
Authors: Rajendran Janani , Subramanian Nathiya , Velu Rajesh Kannan
Published: September 2018

Objective: The objective of the study was to isolate and identify Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) from Bt cotton rhizosphere soil and analyze its larvicidal activity against Anopheles mosquito larvae.Methods: Soil samples were collected from Bt cotton field, and B. thuringiensis was isolated and characterized by biochemical and microscopical characterization. Crystal (Cry) proteins were extracted and analyzed by sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE) and its larvicidal activity was checked by mortality analysis. Effective Bt isolates were identified by 16S rRNA sequencing.Results: A total of 24 isolates were characterized as Bacillus sp. by biochemical characterization. Further, parasporal inclusion and Cry proteins were extracted, and it was quantified by Bradford assay. The precipitated Cry proteins were analyzed by SDS-PAGE and the results have indicates Cry I protein at 100kDa, Cry3 protein at 44kDa, and cytolytic protein (Cyt) at 29kDa in most of the isolates. Larvicidal activity was checked by the 4th instar Anopheles mosquito larvae. Among the tested isolates, RBL10 and RBL20 have shown the highest percentage of larvicidal activity at 96 and 83%, respectively. Further, the two isolates RBL10 and RBL20 were identified as Bt by 16S rRNA sequencing.Conclusion: B. thuringiensis producing Cry and Cyt proteins posses potential larvicidal activity against Anopheles mosquito larvae which has biological and economic importance in mosquito control.
MERCURY-INDUCED NEUROBEHAVIORAL DEFICIT AND ITS AMELIORATING EFFECTS OF AQUEOUS EXTRACT OF TRAPA BISPINOSA
Authors: Phukan Pankaj , Namasudra Sanjit , Bawari Meenakshi , Sengupta Mahuya
Published: September 2018

Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of aqueous extract of dry fruits of Trapa bispinosa (TB) in alleviating mercury (Hg)-induced neurobehavioral toxicity.Methods: A total of 36 adult male Swiss albino mice weighing 25–30 g were equally divided into six groups, namely I–VI. Group I received distilled water, Group II received mercuric chloride (1.5 mg/kg), Group III received TB extract low dose (150 mg/kg), Group IV received TB extract high dose (300 mg/kg), Group V received mercuric chloride plus TB extract low dose, and Group VI received mercuric chloride plus TB extract high dose. All the groups received doses orally through oral gavage tube and the treatment lasted for 14 days. The behavioral effects were evaluated with locomotor activity in the open field test (OFT), spatial learning ability and memory in the Morris water maze test (MWM), immobility in Forced swimming test (FST) and anxiety in Elevated plus maze test (EPM).Result: In the present study, it was observed that Hg-exposed mice significantly decreased the locomotor activity (p<0.001), time spent in open arms (p<0.001), number of open arm entries (p<0.01), number of annulus crossovers (p<0.001) and increased immobility (p<0.001), escape latency (p<0.01), and path length (p<0.001) in mice. The aqueous extract of TB significantly reduced the neurotoxic effects of Hg. The aqueous extract of TB showed to increase the locomotor activity (p<0.01), time spent in open arms (p<0.01), number of open arm entries (p<0.05), and number of annulus crossovers (p<0.001), which was decreased in Hg-exposed mice. TB extract also showed to decrease the immobility (p<0.001), escape latency (p<0.05), and path length (p<0.001) in Hg-fed mice.Conclusion: On the basis of the results obtained from the behavioral study, the present study indicates that mercuric chloride caused neurobehavioral changes which were significantly reversed by the aqueous extract of TB. Thus, TB was found to be effective in ameliorating the neurobehavioral deficit induced by Hg exposure.
PLANT-MEDIATED ZNO NANOPARTICLES USING FICUS RACEMOSA LEAF EXTRACT AND THEIR CHARACTERIZATION, ANTIBACTERIAL ACTIVITY
Authors: Birusanti Arun Babu , Mallavarapu Umamahesh , Nayakanti Devanna , Espenti Chandra Sekhar
Published: September 2018

Objective: The motto of this research work was to synthesize the zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnONPs) should be environmental friendly. Hence, it receives more attention toward the green route method.Methods: At last, the Ficus racemosa ZnONPs (FR-ZnONPs) were successfully synthesized using a simple protocol and eco favorable technique. This paper highlights the biosynthesis of ZnONPs using leaf extract of F. racemosa. Results: FR-ZnONPs formation was confirmed by the different spectral analysis such as UV-visible spectroscopy, Fourier transform-infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and electronic dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. UV-visible studies revealed that the intrinsic band gap absorptions were at 372 nm and photoluminescence study showed that the blue emission at 492, 481, 473, and 450 nm and the green emission at 540 nm, respectively. FR-ZnONPs are wurtzite hexagonal structure with an average grain size of 15 nm was found from XRD analysis.Conclusion: FR-ZnONPs exhibited good antimicrobial efficacy on Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus with various concentrations (100 μg/mL, 75 μg/mL, and 50 μg/mL) by disc diffusion method. The results showed the good antibacterial activity of FR-ZnONPs on G+ve and G-ve bacteria.
COMPARATIVE STUDY OF GELATINASE ACTIVITY AND PELLICLE FORMATION AMONG EXTENDED-SPECTRUM BETA-LACTAMASE AND NON-EXTENDED-SPECTRUM BETA-LACTAMASE PRODUCING ACINETOBACTER BAUMANNII FROM DIABETIC FOOT ULCER INFECTIONS
Authors: Khan Diwan Mahmood , Rao I. Venkatakrishna , Moosabba M. S.
Published: September 2018

Objective: The aim of the study was to assess and compare the gelatinase activity and pellicle formation in extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL) and non-ESBL producing Acinetobacter baumannii isolates from diabetic foot ulcer infection (DFI).Methods: A total of 42 isolates of A. baumannii recovered from patients of DFI from September 2016 to February 2018. Isolates were identified by the standard microbiological method and confirmed by the BD Phoenix 100 system. The antimicrobial susceptibility test was performed by the Kirby–Bauer disk diffusion method and ESBL was detected by double disk diffusion synergy test method. Gelatinase production was determined by the Luria Bertani agar supplemented with 30 g/L gelatin, and pellicle formation was determined by the Mueller-Hinton broth which is incubated at two different temperatures.Results: A total of 42 A. baumannii isolates were multidrug resistant. Among 21 isolates, each was ESBL and non-ESBL producers. Pellicle formation at 25°C in ESBL and non-ESBL producer isolates was 47.61% (10/21) and 28.57% (06/21). Pellicle formation at 37°C in ESBL and non-ESBL producer isolates was 57.14% (12/21) and 42.85% (09/21), respectively. Gelatinase production was present in 38.09% ESBL and 28.57% in non-ESBL producers. ESBL strains were more virulent compared to non-ESBL producers among patients of DFIs.Conclusion: This study showed that pellicle formation at 37°C was highly virulent due to ESBL producers. Gelatinase production was elevated in ESBL compared to non-ESBL producer isolates. This attribute of the isolates could render ESBL positive more pathogenic. Colistin and polymyxin B are the only choices of treatment for multidrug-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii infections.
IN VITRO ASSESSMENT OF ANTHELMINTIC AND ALPHA-AMYLASE INHIBITION OF SCHLEICHERA OLEOSA (LOUR.) OKEN LEAF EXTRACTS
Authors: Goswami Shambaditya , Pal Singh Ravindra
Published: September 2018

Objective: The present study deals with the effects of Schleichera oleosa (Lour.) Oken leaf extracts on helminths and alpha-amylase inhibition. Identification of phytochemicals and physicochemical analysis were also performed.Methods: Different concentrations (25, 50, and 100 mg/ml) of petroleum ether, acetone, chloroform, ethanol, and aqueous extracts of the leaf were used to examine the effects. For the evaluation of in vitro anthelmintic activity, several earthworms (Eisenia fetida, Perionyx excavates, and Pheretima posthuma) and nematode (Ascaridia galli) were taken, while albendazole was used as a standard drug and Tween 80 (3%) in normal saline (0.9% NaCl) was considered as a control treatment. In vitro alpha-amylase inhibition of different extracts (10–100 mg/ml) was done spectrophotometrically by dinitrosalicylic acid - starch azure method.Results: The ethanolic extract showed the maximum presence of phytochemicals among all the extracts, which included alkaloids, tannins, flavonoids, saponin glycosides, phenolic compounds, resins, and amino acids. The outcomes of the determination of physicochemical parameters and fluorescence characters provided the satisfactory results. Significant anthelmintic activity was established by the ethanolic and aqueous extracts of the leaf among all the extracts and the responses, so observed, were dose responsive. Inhibition of alpha-amylase by ethanolic and aqueous extracts was significant with the IC50 value of 36.63 and 73.94 μg/ml, respectively, when compared to standard acarbose.Conclusion: The ethanolic extract was the more potent candidate for both the effects, and the effect of extract was best against A. galli, P. posthuma, and E. fetida at higher concentration. Isolation and characterization of therapeutic constituents would be the future interest.
STABILITY STUDIES ON FLUCLOXACILLIN SODIUM IN RECONSTITUTED ORAL SUSPENSIONS
Authors: Klu Michael Worlako , Apenteng John Antwi , Addy Bright Selorm , Mintah David Ntinagyei , Katsekpor Elikem
Published: September 2018

Objective: Stability studies on flucloxacillin sodium in reconstituted oral suspensions were carried out. The experiment sought to investigate the effects that the different types of water for reconstitution and different storage conditions have on the stability of flucloxacillin sodium in the reconstituted suspensions.Methods: Suspensions of flucloxacillin sodium were reconstituted with tap water, commercial bottled water (Voltic brand was used), commercial sachet water (Everpure brand was used) treated tap water and distilled water and stored under refrigeration (RF) (4-6 °C), at room temperature (RT) (31-33 °C) and in a bowl of water (BW) (26-27 °C). Assay of flucloxacillin sodium was by iodimetry at predetermined time intervals for 8 d.Results: The amount of flucloxacillin sodium in all the suspensions stored under the various storage conditions reduced with time and at different rates. The percentage breakdown, a parameter of stability, was calculated for each reconstituted suspension stored at the different conditions investigated and they were as follows: commercial bottled water (RT-22.40 %, RF-9.90 % and BW-15.90 %), distilled water (RT-29.14 %, RF-18.0 %, BW-28.80 %), tap water (RT-25.0%, RF-14.60 % and BW-25.10 %) and commercial sachet water (RT-25.0 %, RF-10.17 % and BW-22.50 %).Conclusion: At the end of the study, it was found that those suspensions reconstituted with the commercial bottled water were the most stable and had the smallest breakdown of flucloxacillin sodium whereas those reconstituted with distilled water were the least stable and had the largest breakdown of flucloxacillin sodium. Commercial sachet water reconstituted more stable suspensions than tap water. Also, the suspensions stored under refrigeration were the most stable followed by those stored in a bowl of water. The formulations kept at room temperature were the least stable and thus, had the largest breakdown of flucloxacillin sodium.
CLINICAL INTERVENTIONS UNDERTAKEN BY FINAL YEAR STUDENT PHARMACISTS ON ROUNDING TEAMS IN NIGERIA: A 3-YEAR CROSS-SECTIONAL EVALUATION
Authors: Ayogu Ebere Emilia , Isah Abdulmuminu , Adibe Maxwell Ogochukwu
Published: September 2018

Objective: The aim of this study was to assess the interventions of final year pharmacy students of University of Nigeria Nsukka (UNN) during clinical ward rounds in a secondary and a tertiary hospital in Enugu State, Nigeria.Methods: Students were instructed at the start of their clerkship by pharmacist preceptors on how to appropriately document clinical interventions across the hospitals. A pharmacist reviewed each intervention entered by the students for appropriateness. All data collected were entered into the IBM Statistical Products and Service Solutions (SPSS) for Windows, Version 21.0 for analysis. Descriptive statistics, including mean and percentages, were used to analyze data obtained. Ethical approval was obtained from the Health Research and Ethics committee of the University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital (UNTH), Ituku-Ozalla, Enugu State.Results: The students documented interventions for three hundred and eight (308) patients. There were more females among the patients (157) and most were aged 19-35 y (92). The common types of interventions performed were drug-drug interactions (14%), therapeutic duplication (11%), and patient and family education (11.7%). The most common additional laboratory test recommended was Serum-Electrolyte-Urea-Creatinine (SEUCr) (30.77%). The most common form of patient education rendered was on dietary and lifestyle modifications in ulcer (1.9%). No characteristic of the patients had a statistically significant relationship with the types and frequency of clinical interventions.Conclusion: Final year pharmacy students of UNN demonstrated competencies in experiential education. They were able to make valid clinical interventions that contributed to patient care in the two hospitals during their clinical clerkship.
M-bioscore: proposing a new statistical model for prognostic factors in metastatic breast cancer patients
Authors: Abdel-Rahman Omar
Published: September 2018

Aim:
The current study aims to propose and internally validate ‘M-bioscore’, which is a model to help predict the outcomes of untreated metastatic breast cancer patients.
Methodology:
Surveillance, epidemiology and end results (SEER) database (2010–2013) was accessed. Patients were divided into two groups: a training set and a validation set. Through a Cox proportional model, multivariate analysis for potential prognostic factors was performed. M-bioscore was calculated for all patients. Survival analyses were conducted through Kaplan–Meier analysis/log-rank testing.
Results:
A total of 6655 metastatic breast cancer patients were analyzed. In the training set, the following factors were linked to better cancer-specific survival in multivariate analysis: estrogen receptor positivity, isolated distant nodal metastases, progesterone receptor positivity, lower nuclear grade and HER2 neu positivity (p < 0.01). Cancer-specific survival was then assessed according to M-bioscore. Adjusted Cox regression cause-specific hazard (using breast cancer death as the event of interest) was evaluated in the validation cohort. Pairwise hazard ratio comparisons between different scores were significant (p < 0.05) except for the comparison between score 6 and 7. C-index for the validation cohort was 0.665 (Standard error (SE): 0.010; 95% CI: 0.646- 0.685).
Conclusion:
M-bioscore can predict the outcomes of untreated metastatic breast cancer patients. Validation of external datasets is needed.
Some issues for the evaluation of noninferiority trials
Authors: Xie Xuanqian , Wang Myra , Ng Vivian , Sikich Nancy
Published: September 2018

Although published noninferiority trials (NITs) generally conclude that the experimental intervention being studied is noninferior compared with standard therapy or active control, NIT quality is often not satisfactory. We have proposed 14 questions to assist in evaluating the clinical evidence of the experimental versus standard therapy. The aim of these questions is to critically appraise NITs and support proper interpretation of study results. Readers should not only consider whether the confidence interval of the primary effect measure falls within the prespecified noninferiority margin (thus concluding noninferiority), but also assess the similarities between primary and secondary outcomes for the experimental and standard therapy. To conclude noninferiority conceptually is to synthesize evidence from both the current NIT comparing experimental therapy with standard therapy and historical data comparing standard therapy with placebo control. Therefore, readers should use external data sources (e.g., historical data) to validate the study design (e.g., selection of standard therapy, effect measure and the noninferiority margin), and assess the uncertainty of findings due to differences between the observed and expected incidence rates, follow-up time, effects of adjuvant therapy and the secondary outcomes of therapies. Following an explanation of the 14 questions, we then apply the questions to a NIT on intraoperative radiation therapy for early stage breast cancer, as an example.
Gestão educacional e sua relação com a oferta de atividades curriculares complementares
Authors: Bendrath Eduard Angelo , Basei Andreia Paula , Frederico Jessica Latchuk
Published: September 2018

A oferta de atividades paralelas ao sistema formal de ensino como mecanismo para ampliação da jornada escolar e possibilidade de melhoria da qualidade educacional já é uma realidade no atual cenário nacional. No estado do Paraná o Programa de Atividades Curriculares Complementares possibilita às escolas estaduais ofertarem atividades de contra turno em diversos eixos temáticos. Dessa forma, o objetivo desse estudo foi compreender a dinâmica dessas atividades em uma cidade de pequeno porte do estado tendo como foco de observação o papel do gestor na condução das ações. Foram coletados dados técnicos quantitativos de desenvolvimento das ações nas escolas bem como foram realizadas entrevistas semiestruturadas com os gestores das unidades pesquisadas. Os dados mostraram que há uma efetiva participação dos alunos no programa, mas que há dificuldades dos gestores em compreenderem os processos específicos da proposta, tanto em termos pedagógicos quanto administrativos.
A influência das políticas públicas na formação do professorbrasileiro e sua relação com o Ensino Religioso
Authors: De Oliveira Tania Alice
Published: September 2018

Este texto tem a intenção de discutirquestões relativas aos processos de implementação das políticas públicas voltadas para a formação do professor brasileiro enfatizando sua relação com os docentes de Ensino Religioso.No ano de 2017 tivemos uma ampla discussão acercada BNCC  e depois de várias idas e vindas, em sua última versão, o componente Ensino Religioso (ER) foi contemplado. Devido a sua apresentação, formando umapêndice na BNCC dadaa sua separação da área de humanas, o documentogerou críticasentre os que enxergam o ER como área de conhecimento e aqueles laicistas radicais que veem nesta disciplina certa herança catequética.Por esses motivos, a estruturaatual da base  descaracteriza uma área  responsável por produzir conhecimentos sociais, no caso o Ensino Religioso. A despeito desses caminhos e descaminhoso ER encontra-se amparado legalmente fazendo jusa todo investimento intelectual que o embasa epistemologicamente,  em especial pela Ciência da religião. Contudo,há de se destacar o último edital da CAPES (2018)  que na qualidade de gestora das políticas públicas educacionais, assumiu uma postura excludente regulamentandoa supressão do  ER de seu rol de subprojetos. Por entender que o professor de ER necessita de equiparação com os professores de outros conteúdosno sentido de formação que oportunize a discussão de planejamento, a avaliação e as  metodologias existentes é que este texto se ocupa. Com isto, objetiva-se também,mostrar a relevância das políticas públicas para todos os campos de saberes,de maneira irrestrita,como forma de reivindicar seu compromisso com a formação de uma sociedade plural e laica, portanto cidadã e de acordo com o que preconiza a LDB.
Intensity of vascular streak dieback in different cocoa clones and various agro-climatic conditions
Authors: Anita-Sari Indah , Wahyu Susilo Agung , Puspitasari Niken , Nuraini Febrilia , Setyawan Bayu , McMahon Peter , Keane Philip
Published: September 2018

Vascular streak dieback (VSD) is one of the main diseases on cocoa. This disease can produce a heavy damage in susceptible plants. Agro-climatic condition influences the VSD disease severity level. A study on the relationship between agro-climatic condition and VSD disease severity was conducted in eight locations which were selected based on difference in agro-climatic conditions including altitude, rainfall, number of wet, and dry months. Randomized complete block design was used consisting of eight agro-climatic conditions as treatments which consisted of 200 trees samples, and scored for VSD intensity. A study was also conducted on the response of cocoa clones with different level of resistance at different altitude at Kendeng Lembu, Jatirono, Sungai Lembu, Banjarsari, and Sumber Asin Plantations. A split plot design was applied consisting of two factors. The first factor was location including Pager Gunung (highland) and Besaran (lowland). The second factor was clone resistance with two levels: PA 191 (resistant) and BL 703 (susceptible). VSD scores and stomatal characteristics (stomata number, stomata diameter, and stomata aperture) were determined. The results of experiment showed that VSD scoring differed significantly between the eight agro-climatic conditions. The highest VSD score occurred in the lowland (Gereng Rejo, Banjarsari Plantation, 38 m asl.), where the average annual rainfall was 2161 mm, with five dry months. Cocoa trees in Sumber Asin (580 m asl.), with the average annual rainfall of 2302 mm and 8.5 wet months/3.5 dry months were mostly free of VSD disease. Altitude was positively correlated with rainfall, and negatively correlated with VSD severity. Number of wet months was negatively correlated with VSD severity. Conversely, number of dry months was positively correlated with VSD. The result indicated that genotype, environment, or their interaction did not significantly affect number and aperture of stomata. Although stomatal diameter was significantly affected by environment, genotypes or their interaction with environment did not influence this character.
Analysis of Secondary Metabolites as Potential Phytoalexins, Their Secretion Sites and Proposed Resistance Markers to Vascular Streak Dieback in Theobroma cacao L.
Authors: Iman Santoso Teguh , Miftahudin Muhammad , C Sulistyaningsih Yohana , Wiyono Suryo
Published: September 2018

Study on resistance mechanism to vascular-streak dieback (VSD) disease in cacao (Theobroma cacao L.) is limited due to the lack of fungal spores for artificial inoculation. This research was conducted to study the production of secondary metabolites that appear to be evidence of defense signaling in resistant clone of Sca 6 and susceptible clone of TSH 858 to Ceratobasidium theobromae natural infection. A fungal staining method was employed to detect C. theobromae hyphae at early infection stages, before VSD symptoms appear. Metabolite profiling was analyzed using pyrolysis gas chromatography mass spectrometry (Py-GCMS) at pre-, early and late stages of C. theobromae infection. Histochemical and anatomical characteristics of both healthy and infected leaves were also observed to identify the accumulation sites of secondary metabolites on and in cocoa leaf tissues. The results confirmed that fungal staining using trypan blue can detect early stages of C. theobromae infection; at the 14th week (on susceptible seedlings) and the 18th week (on resistant clones), following placement of the seedlings under infected cacao plants. Phenylpropanoid biosynthesis, terpenoid biosynthesis, environmental information processing signal transduction pathways, and aromatic biodegradation were detected as important metabolite pathways during defense mechanism. I-limonene (terpenoid), p-ethylguaiacol (phenols) and 2.3 dihidrobenzofuran (heterocyclic compounds) were proposed as an active defense produced by the host after infected by pathogen mainly on late infection of C. theobromae. Terpenoid and phenol compounds were accumulated on the glandular trichomes, idioblast of upper and bottom epidermis, phloem vessel and cortex idioblast of cacao leaves. Epidermis thickness of resistant clone was significantly greater than that of susceptible clone on both surfaces. Leaf epidermis tissue and the accumulated compounds in epidermis idioblast may act as the physical and biochemical markers of cocoa resistance to VSD.