bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Radioactivity and hydrochemical properties of certain thermal Turkish spa waters
Authors: Karakaya Muazzez Çelik , Doğru Mahmut , Karakaya Necati , Kuluöztürk Fatih , Nalbantçılar Mahmut Tahir
Published: April 2017

The study aims to determine the radioactivity levels of thermal waters which have been used seasonally or permanently in spas for therapeutic intentions. Samples were collected from spas in different regions of Turkey. Some radionuclides (40K, 232Th, 226Ra, 137Cs), gross alpha (GA) and gross beta (GB) activities, and physical and some chemical parameters were measured. Gamma radiation measurements for 226Ra, 232Th and 40K radionuclides were performed by using a high purity germanium (HPGe) detector. The results of the gamma spectrometry ranged from 1.385 to 11.025 Bql−1 for 226Ra, <minimum detectable activity to 3.477 Bql−1 for 232Th and 9.679 to 36.989 Bql−1 for 40K. GA and GB activity concentrations were detected by using ultra-low level α/β counter. The GA and GB activity ranged from 43 to 3,182 mBql−1 and 54 to 1,950 mBql−1, respectively. Based on calculated annual effective dose equivalent, the total dose originated mostly from 226Ra and slightly from 40K. Furthermore, waters with high Cl content were enriched with 40K, 226Ra isotopes, and the source of GA and GB activity in these waters was mostly 226Ra. Strong high positive correlation between Cl, 226Ra and total dissolved solids in Cl-enriched samples indicated that the nuclides formed from dissolved minerals in these waters.
Opportunities for saving and reallocating agricultural water to alleviate water scarcity
Authors: Richter Brian D. , Brown James D. , DiBenedetto Rachel , Gorsky Adrianna , Keenan Emily , Madray Chantal , Morris Martha , Rowell Devin , Ryu Susan
Published: April 2017

As water scarcity worsens globally, there is growing interest in finding ways to reduce water consumption, and for reallocating water savings to other uses including environmental restoration. Because irrigated agriculture is responsible for more than 90% of all consumptive water use in water-scarce regions, much attention is being focused on opportunities to save water on irrigated farms. At the same time, many recent journal articles have expressed concern that claims of water-saving potential in irrigation systems lack technical credibility, or are at least exaggerated, due to failures to properly account for key elements of water budgets such as return flows. Critics have also asserted that opportunities for reallocating irrigation savings to other uses are limited because any freed-up water is taken up by other farmers. A comprehensive literature and internet survey was undertaken to identify well-documented studies of water-saving strategies in irrigated agriculture, as well as a review of case studies in which water savings have been successfully transferred to other uses. Our findings suggest that there is in fact considerable potential to reduce consumptive water use in irrigation systems when proper consideration is given to water budget accounting, and those savings can be beneficially reallocated to other purposes.
Biuletyn teologii laikatu
Authors: Parzyszek (red.) Czesław
Published: April 2017

Abstrakt
PMQR Determinants Expression in Gram-negative Uropathogens Clinically Isolated from Hospitalized Patients with Pyelonephritis in Kharkiv, Ukraine
Authors: Chub Olga , Bilchenko Aleksandr V. , Teslenko Igor
Published: April 2017

Background:

Resistance to beta-lactams and fluoroquinolones has been increasing in the treatment of urinary tract infections (UTIs), worldwide. Recent studies in Europe and the United States have demonstrated that steady increase in the rate of uropathogen’s resistance to commonly prescribed antibiotics is associated with plasmid-mediated resistance genes existence. According to the published data, acquirеd rеsistance to quinolones is predоminantly mediated by plasmid-mediated quinolone resistance determinants (PMQR) that cоmpromise the efficаcу of the first, second and third generation quinolones.

The objective of this study was to determine the prevalence of PMQR genes among uropathogens from hospitalized patients with pyelonephritis and to identify the presence of genes involved in the resistance, specifically - aac(6')-Ib-cr, QnrA and efflux pump QepA.

Methods:

A cross-sectional study of 105 patients with pyelonephritis, treated in Kharkiv City Clinical Emergency Hospital, Ukraine was carried out. Bacterial isolates were collected, antimicrobial susceptibility of isolates was determined by the Kirby Bauer disk diffusion method and screening for the presence of aac(6')-Ib-cr, QnrA and efflux pump QepA PMQR genes was performed by polymerase chain reaction.

Results:

Among 81 isolated gram negative bacterial strains, 39 (48.1%) were identified to carry different types of plasmid-mediated resistance determinants, among which 27 (69.2%) were found to be extended spectrum beta-lactamases producers, and 12 (30.8%) – were positive for plasmid-mediated quinolone resistance genes. Most of the identified genes were found in P. mirabilis, E. coli and Serratia spp. strains with its prevalence of 62.5%, 52.8% and 50%, respectively. Most common isolated gene was efflux pump QepA. In this study, 100% of the PMQR producing isolates are identified as meropenem susceptible. Global resistance to fluoroquinolones was ≥ 20% among isolated gram-negative strains. Treatment by fluoroquinolones demonstrated the best favorable clinical response in the patients infected with ESBL-producing organisms, whereas cephalosporins were the most effective in patients infected with fluoroquinolone resistance uropathogens.

Conclusion:

Therapeutic alternatives for the treatment of UTI patients with resistant uropathogens, particularly in hospitalized patients, are limited. Rational use of antibiotics in practice and/or the proper detection of plasmid-mediated resistance genes among the bаcteria in cоmmunitiеs arе crucial for further prevention of antimicrobial resistance development.
ISOLATION AND CHARACTERIZATION OF MDR BACTERIA FROM IN VITRO CULTURE OF BACOPA MONNIERA AND SUPPLEMENTATION OF NATURAL EXTRACTS TO CONTROL BACTERIAL CONTAMINATION
Authors: Sharma Yash , Bhardwaj Manish , Nagar Anshita , Bhagat Neeta
Published: April 2017

Objective: The purpose of the present study was to isolate and characterize bacterial contamination from in vitro culture of Bacopa monniera callus culture.Methods: The two selected isolates (1 and 2) were identified by morphological, biochemical and molecular (16S rRNA gene sequencing) methods. Beside this antibiotic resistance was also determined.Results: The isolates were identified as closely related to Enterobacter cloacae (KU350623) (Isolate 1) and Myroides odoratimimus (KU382740) (Isolate 2). The isolate 1 and 2 were found to be resistant to streptomycin (25 mcg), dapsone (10 mcg), erythromycin (15 mcg), chloroamphenicol (25 mcg) and ampicillin (10 mcg). Supplementation of the natural extract was tested to control the contamination due to these multi drug resistant bacteria. Aqueous and alcoholic leaf extracts of Azadirachta indica was added to plant tissue culture media i.e. MS media in order to control contamination.Conclusion: The present studies suggest using natural extracts supplementation as a promising strategy to control the in vitro bacterial contamination in plant tissue culture.
FEASIBILITY STUDY FOR PRODUCTION OF IODINE-131 USING DIOXIDE OF TELLURIUM-130
Authors: Didi Abdessamad , Dadouch Ahmed , Bekkouri Hassane El
Published: April 2017

Objective: Currently, nuclear medicine is becoming increasingly important, through the discovery of several medical radioisotopes, which are used in diagnosis, treatment, and medical imaging. Among the most important radionuclide which is commonly used is iodine-131, with a half-life of 8.02 d. Iodine-131 is one of the mainly essential elements in nuclear medicine. Since their first use, several studies have been conducted to meet the world need of hospital specialists in nuclear medicine. The purpose of this study was to participate in a lawsuit about the feasibility of producing 131I.Methods: using neutron activation of the dioxide of tellurium (TeO2) under a neutron flux which varies between 5 1011 and 1013 n/cm²s for 4, 6 and 8 hours** per irradiation cycle during 5 d, and used the Fortron90 Code to calculate the activity of iodine-131.Results: The result of the activity of iodine-131 found about 4,634 Curie with an irradiation of 4 hours** per day and 9.381 Curie with an activation of 8 hours** per day.Conclusion: Production of iodine-131 can be very effective if an acceptable capsule is used for different masses of tellurium and a neutron flux in a nuclear reactor.
BIOSYNTHESIS OF GOLD NANOPARTICLES BY BIOSORPTION USING NEOSARTORYA UDAGAWAE: CHARACTERIZATION AND INVITRO EVALUATION
Authors: Lakshmi V. Jhansi , Kannan K. P.
Published: April 2017

Objective: The present study was aimed to investigate gold nanoparticles synthesized by fungal isolate Neosartorya udagawae and determination of their stability in biofluids to probe their aptness in drug delivery applications.Methods: In this procedure, gold nanoparticles were prepared by biosynthesis using seven days old culture of Neosartorya udagawae and aqueous chloroauric acid. After the complete reaction, the fungal biomass was subjected to UV-Vis, XRD, FT-IR Spectrum analysis, TEM, Zeta potential, SEM and EDX analysis.Results: Intra/extracellular synthesis of gold nanoparticles was confirmed by a sharp peak at 526 nm in UV spectroscopy. SEM, TEM analysis demonstrates the spherical shape of AuNPs with an average diameter of 50 nm and XRD confirm the crystalline gold nanoparticles. FTIR analysis reveals the presence of the protein shell around the gold nanoparticles. The zeta potential value of AuNPs was-36mV which confirmed the stability of nanoparticles dispersion. Gold nanoparticles have shown high stability in biofluids of Bovine Serum Albumin and Phosphate Buffer Saline at pH-5, pH-7and pH-9 which mimic the human colonic biological environment.Conclusion: The fungal synthesis of AuNPs has been experimentally demonstrated and their stability in BSA, 10% NaCl and PBS at pH-7. This might be a promising option for drug delivery applications in carcinogenic colon disorders in human beings.
CONTROLLED-RELEASE EFFERVESCENT FLOATING MATRIX TABLETS OF METFORMIN USING COMBINATION OF POLYMERS
Authors: Patel Meenakshi Bhavesh , Shaikh Farhatjahan , Patel Vandana , Surti Naazneen Imtiaz
Published: April 2017

Objective: It is always challenging to prepare the floating gastro retentive formulation of the high dose drug. The present research was aimed to prepare gastro retentive controlled release, matrix tablets of metformin, using the combination of different ionic, anionic and polyanionic polymers with HPMC.Methods: Formulations were prepared using sodium alginate, pullulan, kappa carrageenan, xanthan gum, poloxamer 68 in combination with HPMC K15M. All matrix tablets were prepared by direct compression method and evaluated for swelling, floating adhesive period and drug release.Results: All the tablets showed acceptable physicochemical properties. Statistical analyses of data revealed that tablets prepared using HPMC K15M and kappa carrageenan, formulation F2, is best in terms of showing excellent floating properties, extended adhesion periods and sustained drug release characteristics with similarity factor as 92 on comparison with the theoretical release of the drug.Conclusion: The combination of HPMC K15M and kappa carrageenan can be further optimized by applying the appropriate statistical design.
EVALUATION OF DIFFERENT CULTURE MEDIA FOR ENHANCED PRODUCTION OF PSEUDOMONAS AERUGINOSA (MTCC NO 2453) BIOMASS AND ITS PROTEINS
Authors: Neeraja P. , Parthasarathy T. , Sudhakar M.
Published: April 2017

Objective: Microorganisms, especially bacteria and its proteins have proven to be potential anti-cancer agents as they selectively attack the tumor cells or tumor micro-environments. The extract of Pseudomonas aeruginosa found to contain proteins that have shown promising anticancer activity. In this work, it was attempted to increase the biomass and trigger the total protein fraction of Pseudomonas aeruginosa (MTCC 2453).Methods: The organism was cultivated in three different such as Luria-Bertani (LB) broth, minimal medium9 (M9), super broth medium (SB) and asparagine-proline (AP) broth. Asparagine proline broth was selected as it has shown high cell growth rate. The media was further optimized by the addition of NaHCO3 and copper sulphate to trigger the protein production. Optimized Aspergine proline broth has achieved highest cell biomass. After the shake flask culture, the overnight grown culture in optimized AP medium was further grown in a 5 L bioreactor by fed-batch cultivation to achieve higher cell densities.Results: The highest protein production was achieved at 40 ° C. Highest biomass and protein content was observed at pH 8 while lowest biomass was produced at pH 2. A gradual increase in biomass content observed from 12 h towards to 48 h.Conclusion: High biomass and proteins content and of Pseudomonas aeruginosa (MTCC 2453) can be produced in optimized asparagine-proline broth. Further the extract is purified to produce novel anti-cancer proteins.
ETHNOBOTANICAL KNOWLEDGE OF MEDICINAL PLANTS IN DIKHIL, SOUTHERN DJIBOUTI
Authors: From Publication Article Retracted
Published: April 2017

Article Has Been Retracted From Publicaiton Due to Conflict of Interest Among Authors
A REVIEW ON ANTI-HCV AGENTS TARGETING ACTIVE SITE AND ALLOSTERIC SITES OF NON-STRUCTURAL PROTEIN 5B [NS5B]
Authors: Polamreddy Prasanthi , Vishwakarma Vinita , Gundla Rambabu
Published: April 2017

Hepatitis C, a chronic disease affecting the global population significantly is caused majorly by Hepatitis C virus [HCV]. Among the several druggable targets explored for Hepatitis C, the viral protein, non-structural protein 5B [NS5B] is the target of choice for researchers as it is the key enzyme in the HCV replication and its active site is conserved among all genotypes. In the recent years the landscape of Hepatitis C therapies, have evolved from Peg-Interferon [PEG-INF]/Ribavirin, to directly acting anti-virus along with PEG-INF and finally, INF free regimens with greater than 90% sustained virological response [SVR]. The launch of Sofosbuvir, a nucleotide inhibitor of NS5B marks the major paradigm in hepatitis C research. Sofosbuvir exhibits, pan-genotypic activity, low barrier to resistance, highly effective and safe. However, the high prices of these medications limit their universal access. This review will focus on progress towards the discovery and development of NS5B inhibitors targeting allosteric sites and active site, covering the chemical class and structure-activity relationships.
CHOLESTEROL LOWERING POTENTIALS OF A BLEND OF STANDARDIZED METHANOL EXTRACTS OF MORINGA OLEIFERA LEAVES AND FRUITS IN ALBINO WISTAR RATS
Authors: M. Gururaja G. , Mundkinajeddu Deepak , A. Senthil Kumar , J. Joshua Allan , Dethe Shekhar M. , Agarwal Amit
Published: April 2017

Objective: Moringa oleifera Lam. (Moringaceae), a small rapid growing, evergreen, deciduous tree is an important medicinal plant. Leaves and fruits of this plant are used for various ailments, as a nutritional supplement and also as vegetables. The current study involves in the determination of best combination of the cholesterol-lowering potential of a blend of methanol extracts of M. oleifera leaf and fruits, developed based on in vitro FIC index studies and evaluate the combination of this extracts in hypercholesterolemic animal models.Methods: Leaf and fruit methanol extracts and their combinations were tested in in vitro lipase inhibition assay to determine the best combination using fractional inhibitory concentration (FIC) index. Hypercholesterolemia was induced with Triton WR-1339 (a non-ionic detergent) and with high cholesterol diet for acute and chronic model respectively and the cholesterol-lowering effect of 1:1 blend of M. oleifera leaf and fruits methanol extracts was evaluated.Results: The FIC index values indicated that M. oleifera leaf and fruit extracts blended in 1:1 proportion was the best combination in in vitro lipase inhibition assay. This blend, when evaluated in vivo, showed a significant decrease in serum total cholesterol level from 24 h through 48 h in triton model. In high cholesterol diet model, the extract blend showed a significant reduction in serum triglycerides levels at 3 and 6 w of treatment.Conclusion: The results indicate that the blend of M. oleifera at the tested dose could be lowering cholesterol and triglyceride levels by inhibiting the absorption of cholesterol and can be developed as a standardized blend for dietary supplement market.
QUALITY EVALUATION AND SURVEY OF THE ESSENTIAL NEED FOR DRUG INFORMATION CENTERS
Authors: Wen Ming Ming , Aref Heba , Abozaid Ahmad , Kandil Nahla Hesham , Elsobky Yasmin Hussein
Published: April 2017

Objective: The first objective of this work was to examine the services provided by six drug information centers (DICs) in Alexandria, Egypt. The second objective was to evaluate the quality of the replies to the drug information query. The third objective was to assess the conceptual need of DICs from community pharmacists, other health care professionals and the general public.Methods: This study was conducted through three stages. Stage I was a field survey to assess predefined parameters in the current DICs in Alexandria. Stage II was a retrospective cross-sectional study to assess the quality of the drug information replies through an external expert review process. Stage III was a population survey and thematic analysis using questionnaires and interview recording.Results: Activities of DICs include: DIR answering service (100%), adverse drug reaction reporting (100%), issuing bulletins (83.3%), education (83.3%), drug use evaluation (50%) and participation in P and T committees (33.3%). The most frequent question categories asked were dosing, side effects, treatment guidelines and drug interactions. Half of the DICs were affiliated with hospitals; however, a general lacking confidence level of these DICs on the professionalism and the impact on patient care for the DIC services provided was identified. There was an obvious problem in formatting the ultimate question in a question format rather than a sentence format in all DICs. The most accurately answered request was adverse drug reactions. All surveyed groups considered that it is very important to have a DIC accessible to the community free of charge.Conclusion: It is necessary to establish an university-based DIC to incorporate training, education and research into the existing services. A DIC network with definitive standards of services in the future should provide safe and effective quality-assured pharmaceutical care to meet the needs and expectations of the community and improve its delivery to the public. The results and recommendations of this study can be inspired and generalized to other developing countries that have similar health systems as in Egypt.
FORMULATION AND EVALUATION OF SOLID SELF-EMULSIFYING DRUG DELIVERY SYSTEM OF GLICLAZIDE
Authors: Deshmukh Suwarna R. , Bakhle Suparna S. , Upadhye Kanchan P. , Dixit Gouri R.
Published: April 2017

Objective: Gliclazide (GCZ) is a widely prescribed anti-diabetic drug belongs to class IΙ under BCS and exhibit low and variable oral bioavailability due to its poor aqueous solubility. The present investigations highlight the development of solid self-emulsifying drug delivery system (solid-SEDDS) for improved oral delivery of the poorly water-soluble drug, GCZ.Methods: Various oils, surfactant and co-surfactant, were screened for their emulsification ability. Ternary phase diagrams were plotted to identify the zone of micro-emulsification. Liquid SEDDS of the drug were formulated using lemon oil as the oil phase, tween 80, as the surfactant, and labrasol, as the co-surfactant. The optimized liquid SEDDS was transformed into free-flowing powder using florite R as the adsorbent. Results: Self-emulsifying powder retained the self-emulsifying property of the liquid SEDDS. The morphology of solid-SEDDS from scanning electron microscopy studies demonstrated the presence of spherical, granular particles indicating good flowing ability. X-ray powder diffraction studies confirmed solubilization of the drug in the lipid excipients and/or transformation of a crystalline form of the drug to amorphous form. In vitro dissolution studies revealed enhanced release of the drug from solid-SEDDS as compared to plain drug and marketed formulation.Conclusion: Thus it can be concluded that solid-SEDDS, amenable for the development of solid dosage form, can be successfully developed using florite R with the potential of enhancing the solubility, dissolution rate, and bioavailability of the drug.
EVALUATION OF RENAL EPITHELIAL CELL PROTEIN UNDER STRESS CONDITION
Authors: . Priyadarshini , Jain Kanika , Sood Rajeev
Published: April 2017

Objective: Proteins are an important component of cells which are involved in various cellular functions. Different kind of stressing conditions has different responses in the components of the protein synthesis system. Super saturation condition in kidney environment leads to crystallization process. Crystals thus formed injure the surrounding cells and result in reactive oxygen species (ROS) formation. There might be some changes in the protein synthesis when the kidney cells enter in oxidative stress. In the present study, kidney cell lines were exposed to oxidative stress and their proteins were analyzed using Bradford analysis and SDS-PAGE.Methods: Vero cells were obtained from NCCS Pune and cultured in DMEM (Dulbecco’s Modified Eagle’s Medium) and maintained in a humidified incubator at 37 °C with 5% CO2. Calcium phosphate (CaP) crystals were prepared by the homogeneous system. After FTIR analysis crystals were used to injure Vero cell line. H2O2 was also used to injure the Vero cells. Intracellular protein was extracted from healthy cells and injured cells (with CaP crystals and H2O2). Ammonium sulfate precipitation method was used for the isolation of extracellular protein from the media of healthy and injured cells. Bradford method was used for the quantitative estimation of protein. Extracted proteins were analyzed by SDS-PAGE.Results: Amount of intracellular and extracellular protein of normal cells was 4.84±0.004µg/ml. Intracellular protein of CaP injured and H2O2 injured cells were 10.59±0.003 µg/ml and 10.78±0.011µg/ml respectively. While extracellular protein of injured cells was nearly 4 µg/ml. Intracellular protein bands ranging from 14.3 to 97.4 kDa was observed in healthy cells. Protein bands of ~40kDa and ~20kDa was absent in H2O2 and CaP injured intracellular protein extract. Two extracellular protein bands of 66kDa and ~60kDa were present in injured cells and healthy cells. Conclusion: When exposed to oxidative stress several proteins are oxidized decreasing the activity of many metabolic pathways. In the present study amount of intracellular protein increases when cells are injured with CaP or H2O2. While extracellular protein remains more or less same in both healthy and injured condition of cells. In SDS-PAGE analysis few bands were missing in the intracellular extract of injured cells. These results indicate that the amount of protein varies when cells are injured with CaP and H2O2.
OXIDATIVE STRESS-BASED HEPATOTOXICITY OF DULOXETINE IN WISTAR RATS
Authors: Mishra Akanksha , Keshari Amit K. , Singh Ashok K. , Maity Siddhartha , Nandy Bankim , Saha Sudipta
Published: April 2017

Objective: Duloxetine, a selective serotonin and noradrenaline reuptake inhibitor used in major depressive disorders, urinary incontinence and diabetic peripheral neuropathic pain. It is reported to be associated with several types of liver injuries, including hepatocellular, cholestatic and mixed hepatocellular-cholestatic patterns. The objective of this study was to assess the effect of duloxetine or its metabolites on oxidative stress-induced liver damages.Methods: In this study, animals were divided into five groups. In the first group, the only vehicle was given orally for 21 d. The second group has been considered as hepatotoxic control group where Erythromycin was given orally for 14 d and remaining three groups have been considered as test groups where duloxetine, fluvoxamine and duloxetine along with fluvoxamine were administered orally for 21 d. Liver GSH, oxidised lipid (malonaldehyde MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), protein carbonyl (PC) and plasma alanine transaminase (ALT), aspartate transaminase (AST) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) levels were measured to determine the level of hepatotoxicity. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) study of liver tissues was also performed to examine the liver injuries.Results: GSH and SOD levels were found to be decreased in duloxetine-treated groups with respect to the hepatotoxic control group, whereas increased level of MDA, CAT and PC signify the damages of liver cells. Increased level of plasma ALT, AST and ALP at the same time indicated liver tissue damage. Opposite effects were observed in the case of duloxetine and fluvoxamine-treated groups. SEM of liver tissues revealed that the tissue injury occurred in Duloxetin treated groups, whereas the restoration of normal tissue architecture took place due to the administration of duloxetine and fluvoxamine-treated groups.Conclusion: Our results collectively indicated that hydroxylated and epoxide metabolites of duloxetine might have hepatotoxic potential due to oxidative stress produced by the release of free radicals or reactive oxygen species.
METFORMIN USAGE TO INDUCE OVULATION IN WOMEN WITH POLYCYSTIC OVARY SYNDROME: META-ANALYSIS
Authors: Steimbach Laiza Maria , LouÇÃo Aline Dos Santos , Carraro Claudia Batista , Tonin Fernanda Stumpf , Pontarolo Roberto , Sanches Andreia Cristina Conegero
Published: April 2017

Objective: To evaluate the use of MET in ovulation induction and pregnancy rates in a woman with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).Methods: A meta-analysis of randomised clinical trials (RCT) that presented ovulation and gestation rates in women with PCOS, after administering CC or M et al. one or combined was performed. The studies were selected according to the inclusion criteria in PCOS patients, resistant to CC or not.Results: The meta-analysis demonstrated that MET and CC did not significantly increase the ovulation (Odds Ratio 1.72 [0.71, 4.12]) and gestation (OR 1.33 [0.88, 2.02]) rates when compared to the usage of CC itself in women not resistant to CC. However, in women with CC-resistant PCOS, the group treated with CC and MET presented higher rates of ovulation (Odds Ratio = 14.57 [4.96, 42.81]) and gestation (Odds Ratio = 11.86 [2.45, 57.36]) than patients treated only with CC.Conclusion: The combination of MET and CC did not show advantages over the administration of CC alone in women not resistant to CC. However, MET may show satisfactory results in women resistant to CC.
DEVELOPMENT AND IN VIVO EVALUATION OF GASTRORETENTIVE FLOATING TABLETS OF ANTIPSYCHOTIC DRUG RISPERIDONE
Authors: Babu A. Kishore , Ramana M. V.
Published: April 2017

Objective: The objective of this research work was to formulate and evaluate the floating drug delivery system containing Risperidone, to improve oral bioavailability by increasing gastric residence time.Methods: Total fifteen formulations of Risperidone floating tablets were prepared by direct compression method using different grades of HPMC polymers, Gelucire, Polyox and NaHCO3. In vivo radiographic studies were performed in human volunteers by incorporating barium sulphate.Results: The prepared tablets were characterized and found to exhibit satisfactory physicochemical characteristics. All the prepared batches showed good in vitro buoyancy with low floating lag time. It was observed that the tablets remained buoyant for more than 12h. Optimized formulation (F15) consisting of HPMC K100M, WSR 301, Gelucire 50/13 and NaHCO3, followed diffusion controlled zero-order kinetics and non-fickian transport of the drug. FTIR and DSC studies revealed the absence of any chemical interaction between drug and polymers used. The in vivo radiographic studies revealed that the tablets remained in the stomach for 6h in fasting human volunteers. In vivo bioavailability studies performed in healthy human volunteers and Tmax, Cmax, AUC was calculated and confirmed significant improvement in bioavailability when compared with marketed formulation Respidon 2.Conclusion: The data obtained thus suggests that floating delivery system of Risperidone can be successfully designed to give controlled drug delivery and improved oral bioavailability.
PRACTICAL APPROACH TO GREEN CHEMISTRY
Authors: Bhandari Meena , Raj Seema
Published: April 2017

Objective: The basic principles of green chemistry addresses various issues related to synthesis of chemical compounds: planning organic synthesis to maximise yield, prevention/minimization of waste, atom economy, the use of less lethal chemicals, use of safer solvents, renewable starting materials, energy efficiency and use of green catalysts. The objective of this study is to elaborate the practical approach of green methods.Methods: In this paper, we elucidate some important common syntheses having green procedures which can be used in the fields of pharmaceutical chemistry and other fields as well.Results: Green chemistry principles follow up to reduce pollution and environmental degradation by utilizing eco-friendly, non-hazardous, reproducible and efficient solvents and catalysts in the synthesis of drug molecules, drug intermediates and in researches involving synthetic chemistry. The paper also approaches green methods in which microwave radiation can be used as an energy efficient tool.Conclusion: Experimental procedures are gathered from educational journals and laboratory manuals and are viewed in the light of efficacy of green chemistry principles.
HIGH-PERFORMANCE THIN LAYER CHROMATOGRAPHY (HPTLC) FINGERPRINTING PATTERN OF MANGROVE AVICENNIA MARINA
Authors: Dawane Vinars , Fulekar M. H.
Published: April 2017

Objective: An attempt has been made to study phytoconstituents and High-Performance Thin Layer Chromatography (HPTLC) fingerprinting pattern of leaf/stem/root methanol extracts of Avicennia marina.Methods: The phytochemical screening was done by standard biochemical methods and standard optimized HPTLC densitometry determination was performed under two different energy zones [under UV-254 nm and under 540 nm after derivatization at sample size-10 µl, temperature = 25.8±0.3 °C (constant) and relative humidity = 86±1% (constant) in optimized solvent system].Results: Phytochemical analysis confirmed the presence of phytochemicals in the leaf, stem, and root of the plant. Under UV–254 nm energy range, the leaf, stem and root extract showed the presence of 8, 6 and 5 components respectively and under 540 nm energy zone after derivatization, the leaf, stem and root extract revealed the presence of 7, 5 and 5 components, respectively and specific marker components with very high concentration (under UV-254 nm; 3, 2, 2 in leaf, stem, and root respectively and under 540 nm after ASR treatment; 2, 1, 2 in leaf, stem, and root respectively) were detected among them.Conclusion: The preliminary phytochemical test results elucidated Avicennia marina leaf, stem, and root as a hug reservoir of various class of phytochemicals and metabolites. The results obtained by HPTLC fingerprinting method found to be acceptable as a quick, reliable, accurate and economical for identification and authentication of Avicennia marina mangrove plant and useful to differentiate this mangrove species from other similar mangroves, in a single TLC plate run. This serves as a biochemical marker pattern for leaf, stem and root parts of this mangrove and for its diverse phytoconstituents.
VALIDATED SPECTROPHOTOMETRIC METHOD FOR THE ESTIMATION OF VINCRISTINE AND VINBLASTINE
Authors: Jeewantha Halahakoon Amila , Ivanovich Slivkin Aleksei , Mihailovich Karlov Pavel
Published: April 2017

Objective: A simple, sensitive, precise, reproducible and validated UV spectrophotometric methods have been developed for the determination of vincristine (VCR) and vinblastine (VLB) in the pure and dosage forms.Methods: The method was founded on the simple solubility of VCR and VLB in purified water, and their characteristic maximum absorption λ (max) at 295 nm and λ (max) at 268 nm for VCR and VLB respectively in the UV regions. The nature of obedience, to the Bouguer-Lambert-Beer’s law by the VCR and VLB in the range of concentration 5-50 µg/ml was employed to this method.Results: Accuracy and reproducibility of the proposed method were statistically validated by recovery studies. The accuracy of the method for the VCR and VLB was ~ 100.4 % and ~ 100.32 % respectively with good reproducibility. The analytical curves were linear over a wide concentration range (5-50 µg/ml), with a correlation coefficient (r)-0.9998, and 0.9999 for VCR and VLB in that order. The method was showed sufficient precision, with a relative standard deviation (RSD) less than 1%.Conclusion: The method was validated in accordance with Russian general pharmacopoeia article (RGPA) 42-0113-09 and ICH guidelines. Validated method can easily apply for fast, precise and reliable rapid assessment of drug forms and pure substances in the laboratory.
THE STUDY OF THE ACUTE AND SUB-ACUTE ORAL TOXICITIES OF THE NEBULIZED EXTRACT OF MYRACRODRUON URUNDEUVA ALLEMÃO IN RABBITS
Authors: Salvador Islaine De Souza , Silva Leite Renata Da , De Souza Valmir Gomes , De Andrade Fabricio Havy Dantas , Batista Rayanne Sales De A. , Souza FÁbio Santos De , Macedo Rui Oliveira
Published: April 2017

Objective: The aim of this research was to evaluate the acute and sub-acute oral toxicities of the nebulized dried extract of Myracrodruon urundeuva (NDEMU) leaf obtained by the spray drying technique on rabbits.Methods: In the acute toxicity study, the amount of nebulized dried extract (NDE) administered was adjusted to a dose of 2000 mg/kg of leaf powder of M. urundeuva to 6 rabbits once orally and were observed for 14 days. In the sub-acute study, the amount of NDEMU administered was adjusted to a dose of 2000 mg/kg/day of to 6 rabbits once daily for 30 day, orally. The appearance of toxic symptoms was observed every day, followed by each rabbits' food and drink intake. Haematological and biochemical analysis were observed and statistical analysis was performed on them. The rabbits were killed at the end of the study, and their organs were weighed and examined before organ histology were evaluated.Results: No toxic signs and no mortality were observed in the acute and sub-acute study. In the sub-acute study, the amount of dried extract administered was adjusted to a dose of 2000 mg/kg of leaf powder of M. urundeuva to 6 rabbits once daily for 30 days, orally. No toxic signs and no mortality were observed. There were no significant changes (p < 0.05) in the body weights, organ weights and haemato-biochemical parameters in any of the dose levels. No related histopathological lesions were observed.Conclusion: The results indicate that the treatment of repeated doses with the dried NDEME showed low toxicity in rabbits.
EVALUATION OF IN VITRO ANTICANCER AND ANTIOXIDANT ACTIVITIES FROM LEAF EXTRACTS OF MEDICINAL PLANT CLIDEMIA HIRTA
Authors: Narasimham Dokka , Bindu Yeduguri Hima , Cheriyamundath Sanith , Raghavan Rahul , Kumari Meruva Keerthi , Chandrasekhar Thummala , Madassery Joseph
Published: April 2017

Objective: To evaluate the anticancer and antioxidant activity of medicinal plant Clidemia hirta extracted in different solvents.Methods: Crude extracts were prepared from the leaves of Clidemia hirta using ethanol, petroleum ether and chloroform solvents. Anticancer activities and antioxidant properties were assayed using standard yellow dye 3-(4,5-dimethyl-2-thiazolyl)-2,5-diphenyl-2H-tetrazolium bromide (MTT) and 1, 1-diphenyl-2-picryl hydrazyl (DPPH) free radical scavenging assay respectively.Results: We found that the ethanol extract had higher inhibition activities against Dalton’s lymphoma ascites (DLA) cancer cell line, 50% DLA cell line inhibition at 68µg/ml, while 50% inhibition by petroleum ether and chloroform extracts were at 160µg/ml and 172µg/ml, respectively. The antioxidant activity requires5µg/ml of ethanol extract to trap 50% of DPPH (IC50), whereas the positive control ascorbic acid trapped 50% of DPPH (IC50) at 3.5µg/ml.Conclusion: The prepared leaf extracts with different solvents of Clidemia hirta showed the antiproliferative and antioxidant activity in dose-dependent manner. Further works is required to identify the biologically active chemical constituents, responsible for cancer cell growth inhibition from this plant.
THE 2α-3β-6β-23-TETRAHYDRO-OLEAN-12-EN-28-OIC ACID FROM THE LEAVES OF CHRYSOBALANUS ICACO L. ATTENUATES THE INFLAMMATORY HYPERNOCICEPTION IN MICE
Authors: MendonÇa Diana Do Amaral , Oliveira Poliana De Araujo , Kaplan Maria Auxiliadora Coelho , Carvalho MÁrio Geraldo De , Marinho Bruno GuimarÃes
Published: April 2017

Objective: The species Chrysobalanus icaco L., popularly known as abajurú, abajeru, has frequently been associated with antiangiogenic, anti-inflammatory and antirheumatic effects. The 2α-3β-6β-23-tetrahydro-olean-12-en-28-oic acid (THOA) was isolated from the methanolic extract of Chrysobalanus icaco leaves. Thus, the aim of the study was to evaluate the antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory activities of THOA.Methods: Acetic acid-induced abdominal writhing, formalin, von frey and open field tests were performed in mice. The number of writhes, licking time, mechanical threshold and walked squares by animals were the evaluation parameters applied, respectively. In addition, quantification of IL-1β and TNF-α were also performed. The THOA was administered orally at doses of 1–10 mg/kg in male mice. In addition, water, vehicle, morphine (5.01 mg/kg), acetylsalicylic acid (100 mg/kg), and dexamethasone (2.25 mg/kg) were administered.Results: The THOA showed effect with 5 and 10 mg/kg in the acute pain induced by acetic acid (49% and 62% contortion inhibition), carrageenan (150% and 188% increase in mechanical threshold) and formalin (36% and 60% licking inhibition), respectively. These results indicate an inhibition of hyper nociception, while the reduction in the production of cytokines (TNF-α inhibition–64% and 88%; IL-1β inhibition–48% and 55%, respectively) confirmed the inflammatory inhibition by carrageenan. The THOA did not induce motor impairment. The THOA was not toxic after oral administration (LD50>50 mg/kg).Conclusion: These data provide initial evidence that THOA decreases the inflammatory hyper nociception probably by inhibition of IL-1β and TNF-α production, proving to be effective in reducing pain and inflammation.
ANTI-ULCER STUDY OF STANDARDIZED ETHANOL ROOT EXTRACT OF AGANOSMA DICHOTOMA AND ISOLATED URSOLIC ACID
Authors: Pandey Deepali , Joshi Apurva , Hemalatha Siva
Published: April 2017

Objective: Aganosma dichotoma K. Schum (Apocynaceae) has been traditionally used as an Ayurvedic ulcer treatment and the study scientifically validates the antiulcer effect of A. dichotoma ethanol root extract (EAD).Methods: The studies included the isolation, quantification of ursolic acid through HPTLC. Acute and sub-acute toxicity study of EAD for 28 d and antiulcer effect of ursolic acid (50 mg/kg, p. o.), EAD (100, 200 and 400 mg/kg, p. o.) were also evaluated on both the physical (pyloric ligation, PL; cold restrain stress, CRS;) and chemical (absolute ethanol, aspirin, ASP;) induced ulcer in Charles Foster albino rats for 7 d. The various gastric-ulcer parameters, viz. gastric pH, volume, acid-pepsin output, DNA content, H+K+-ATPase activity, mucus content, microvascular permeability, antioxidant enzyme, and gastric histopathological study were performed.Results: The isolated ursolic acid was characterized by NMR and mass spectrometer and quantified through HPTLC in EAD (4.26% w/w). Acute oral toxicity study indicated that LD50 of extract was ≥ 5 g/kg. EAD at the dose of 200 and 400 mg/kg, p. o. reduced the ulcer score in both physical and chemical-induced ulcer models. In PL model EAD (400 mg/kg, p. o.) and ursolic acid (50 mg/kg, p. o.) showed antisecretory property by inhibiting aggressive factors [increase in gastric pH (35.02%, 26.73%), whereas decreased gastric volume (43.55%, 34.35%) and acid-pepsin output (75.23%, 68.81%), respectively]. EAD at 400 mg/kg p. o. showed significant effect on proton pump inhibition while ursolic acid didn’t showed any effect.Conclusion: The effects of EAD were accredited mainly to the offensive mechanism and justify its traditional usage in the treatment of gastric ulcers.
Influence of New Generation Succession on Team Performance: Evidence from China
Authors: Wang Yi , Wang Zhongming
Published: April 2017

We explored the basic structures of new generation succession and entrepreneurship values from a generation gap perspective by first distributing a preliminary questionnaire to 25 new team leaders and 275 team members in Chinese organizations. Data from 211 other employees were then
analyzed using exploratory factor analysis, with the results showing that new generation succession and entrepreneurship values are each represented by a different 3-factor model. Using item analysis and confirmatory factor analysis, data from another sample of 202 employees were used to confirm
the validity and reliability of the final questionnaire. Results of a hierarchical multiple regression analysis showed that there was a moderating effect of interpersonal relationships (guanxi) and a mediating effect of entrepreneurship values on the relationship between new generation succession
and team performance. Our results have practical implications for firms as regards recruiting and retaining new generation talented employees.
1. Mapping a Mirage: Documenting the Scholarship of Teaching and Learning
Authors: Simmons Nicola
Published: April 2017

The purpose of the conference session upon which this paper is based was to challenge the notion that evidence of scholarship must be limited to publication in a peer-reviewed journal, and to open the doors for creative thinking about what might constitute evidence of scholarship of teaching and learning. Existing theory around defining scholarship (Boyer, 1990; Glassick, Huber, & Maeroff, 1997; Sorcinelli, 2002) can provide a justification for alternatives, but how can scholarship expressed through teaching or other creative performance be demonstrated? Scholarship of Teaching and Learning (SoTL) scholars in particular may face challenges in documenting their scholarship so promotion and tenure committees can understand its worth.My intent was not to negate the importance of peer-reviewed publications, but to parallel them with other forms of scholarly dissemination that I argue might in some cases have more impact on advancing the field. I also maintain that any understandings of scholarship are both individual and contextual (Baxter Magolda, 1999). The purpose of this summary therefore is not to promote a common definition but rather to challenge the traditional boundaries of understanding. Engagement in scholarship suggests an exchange of ideas, and it is my hope that this article may serve as a starting point for future discussion.
5. Serial Team Teaching and the Evolving Scholarship of Learning: Students’ Perspective
Authors: Neumann Melody , Bank Charly , Browning Scott , Clarke Jim , Harlow Jason , Harrison David , Ing Karen , Kushnir Lena , Kutas Cecilia , Pitre John , Serbanescu Ruxandra , Wall Marty , Wilson Ron
Published: April 2017

Faculty and students at the University of Toronto were surveyed and interviewed to form a case study of serial team teaching, in which multiple instructors take turns teaching a segment of the same course in sequence. Student opinions ranged from slightly opposed to slightly in favour of team teaching overall. When asked about specific aspects of team teaching, students who liked it overall tended to like all aspects of it, and did not identify those disadvantages in student experience anticipated by the faculty. In general, students in upper years were less supportive of team teaching than were students in their first and second years.
7. Negotiating Shared Understandings of Our Work Through a Collaborative Curriculum: Exploring the Experience of Creativity in Cross Discipline Visual Arts Projects
Authors: Tousignant Wayne , Stanley Darren , Salinitri Geri , Smith Kara
Published: April 2017

In 1994, the National Arts Education Association created a research agenda to address major research issues in the field of visual arts education for the purpose of examining, negotiating, and modifying commonly held beliefs in the field of art education. Research by arts educators has done much to inform visual arts education theory and practice, but largely through studies by individuals with few collaborative efforts. In 1991, Neil Owen Houser proposed a collaborative processing model for arts education, which reflects the experiential or constructivist nature of instruction. In this paper, we present our reflections on our shared work where we explored the benefits of interdisciplinary collaboration, the role of play in the process of problem solving, and how experiential learning strategies and techniques could be applied to the teaching of various subjects through visually-mediated arts projects.
8. Sessional Teaching Staff and Learning, Teaching, and Assessment: Engaging the Marginalised
Authors: Bradley Sally Ann
Published: April 2017

This paper discusses the issues around the professional development needs of sessional teaching staff in the UK. The introduction of the UK professional standards framework for teaching and supporting learning in higher education in 2006 raised the issue of engaging the wide range of staff, faculty, and learning support in professional development. Sessional teaching staff present a challenge when their main employment is outside of the institution.
24. Writing-to-Learn in First-Year Biological Sciences
Authors: Paszkowski Cynthia , Haag Margaret
Published: April 2017

In 2006-2007, we established a writing exercise in two large first-year biology courses. Overall, our exercise, which consisted of multiple drafts of a 500-word essay, offered students a good introduction to how editorial feedback can improve content and style in scientific writing. We discuss our goals, procedures, outcome, and students’ responses to our initiative.
5. Dealing with Wicked Global Problems: An Inter-Disciplinary Approach
Authors: Tomkinson Bland , Engel Charles , Tomkinson Rosemary
Published: April 2017

The world faces a number of complex challenges that are sometimes referred to as ‘wicked problems.’ Universities have been relatively poor at preparing graduates for such challenges, yet it will be the future professionals who need to tackle the problems. This essay looks at two related projects that have attempted to advance the skills training of graduates for a complex world, in the context of educating engineers and scientists in sustainable development.A Delphi study conducted in the UK suggested that systemic, student-centred approaches were vital to the appropriate development of undergraduates to become engineers with skills in sustainable development. A pilot project sponsored by the UK Royal Academy of Engineering developed an inter-disciplinary course unit, using student-centred principles, to embed the principles of sustainable development, in its broadest sense, in the curricula of engineers and scientists. The essay includes an evaluation of this approach.