006657   YOGARAJE GOWDA C V, SENTHILKUMAR S, KASHINATH R T (Research and Development Dep, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Chennai- 602 105, Email: cvyogaraja@gmail.com) : Correlation of uric acid levels and purine metabolism enzyme activities in plasma and liver tissues of diabetic rats. Indian J Biochem Biophys 2019, 56(6), 439-44.

The uric acid alteration in human beings causes major health problem due to its pivotal role in the etiology of many systemic diseases. The purine metabolism enzyme activities have a significant role in the process of elevated uric acid in diabetes mellitus. Hence, a study has been undertaken to understand the alteration of these enzyme activities in diabetic condition with an attempt to establish the possible cause for uric acid elevation. Alloxan was administered (150 mg/kg; i.p.) to induce diabetes in rats. Thirty days after alloxan induced diabetes, the enzyme activities were assessed in both plasma and liver tissues. The enzyme activities such as 5'-nucleotidase (5'-NT), adenosine deaminase (ADA), xanthine oxidase (XO) in the plasma and liver tissues were assayed by spectrometric technique and uric acid levels were also measured by Caraway procedure. A significant (P< 0.001) increase in 5'-NT, ADA and XO enzyme activities in plasma and liver tissue with a concomitant increase (P< 0.001) in uric acid levels was observed in diabetic group. The uric acid and the activities of enzymes did not change significantly in control group. From the present study, it can be concluded that an increase in uric acid levels noticed in diabetic condition may be due to increased catabolism of purines as evidenced by increased activities of 5'-NT, ADA and XO enzymes.

5 illus, 30 ref

006586   FENG H, LI Z, QI C, WANG X, QIAO B, WANG K, TANG X, LIU A (Southwest Univ, Rongchang- 402 460, Email: anfangliu@126.com) : Effect of in ovo ornithine-α-ketoglutarate feeding on early body weight and pectoral muscle development of chicks. Indian J Anim Res 2019, 53(12), 1679-83.

This study investigated the effects of in ovo ornithine-á-ketoglutarate feeding on body weight and pectoral muscle development of chicks. On day 18 of incubation, 198 hatching eggs were randomly divided into three treatment groups each with three replicates of 22 eggs each. The treatment groups consisted of a non-injected control group and two treatments with 1 ml of saline each, containing either 0.2 % (treatment group I) or 0.4 % ornithine-á-ketoglutarate (treatment group II). The chicks were fed after hatching for seven days. Hatchability was reduced due to in ovo feeding of 0.4 % ornithine-α-ketoglutarate. However, in ovo feeding of different levels of ornithine-á-ketoglutarate increased the daily gain, the body weight, the diameter and cross-sectional area of the pectoral muscle fibers, the cross-sectional area of the pectoral muscle fiber bundles, the proportion of proliferating cells in the pectoral muscle. It is concluded that, in ovo ornithine-á-ketoglutarate feeding can promote early growth and development of pectoral muscles in chicks.

3 tables, 25 ref

006656   VIJAY K, SURESH R, LOGANATHASAMY K, NARAYANAN V, PRATHEEPA K, VENKATARAMAN K, PANDIYAN V (Veterinary Biochemistry Dep, Veterinary Coll, Chennai- 600 007, Email: vijayvet88@gmail.com) : Antioxidant status in STZ-induced diabetic rats treated with vanadium pentoxide nanoparticles. Indian J Anim Res 2019, 53(12), 1594-8.

Antioxidant status determines the susceptibility of tissues to the oxidative stress associated with diabetes and its complications; hence in the present study antioxidant status was explored in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats treated with vanadium in the form of vanadium pentoxide nanoparticles. Vanadium pentoxide and vanadium pentoxide nanoparticles at the dose rate of 5mg/kg were administered orally in STZ (50mg/Kg) induced diabetic rats for 30 days and glimepiride (reference drug) was administered orally at the dose rate of 800 ìg/kg body weight. Vanadium pentoxide nanoparticles significantly reduced the blood glucose levels than the diabetic control and other treatment group of rats. On exploration of antioxidant status in liver, kidney and pancreas tissues, vanadium in the form of vanadium pentoxide nanoparticles outperformed the vanadium pentoxide by increasing the activities of the enzymes catalase, superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase, and the concentration of reduced glutathione and by decreasing the lipid peroxide levels. The present study also showed that the restoration of antioxidant status by vanadium pentoxide nanoparticles is comparable with that of the reference drug. It can be concluded that vanadium pentoxide nanoparticles, due to its superior control over hyperglycemia and antioxidant properties, outperformed the vanadium pentoxide treatment in enhancing the antioxidant status in diabetic rats.

26 ref

006654   VALLI C, ISSAC Y M, KAVITHA R (Animal Nutrition Dep, Tamil Nadu Veterinary and Animal Sciences Univ, Chennai- 600 007, Email: valliviba@yahoo.co.in) : Customising the requirement of fibrolytic enzymes to improve feeding value of sorghum stover, ragi straw and groundnut haulms. Indian J Anim Res 2019, 53(11), 1462-8.

A study was carried out to determine fibre and non starch polysaccharide fractions of sorghum stover, ragi straw and groundnut haulms. Sorghum stover had the significantly highest fibre fractions (NDF, ADF, Cellulose, hemicelluloses and Lignin) and non starch polysaccharide fractions (Total, Soluble and Insoluble) compared to the other two crop residues. Enzyme activity assay of cellulase, hemicellulase, xylanase and pectinase revealed multiple activities in a single enzyme. In vitro trials were carried out to evolve substrate specific customized non - starch polysaccharidase mixture for sorghum stover, ragi straw and groundnut haulm. The first trial was conducted to locate the range of enzymes required for maximum sugar release, followed by another in vitro trial to precisely identify the enzymes needed for respective substrates and the third one was to identify the inclusion level of these enzymes in combination to sorghum stover or ragi straw or groundnut haulm. All these trials were conducted in duplicate in three runs. These experiments established that each gram of sorghum stover and ragi straw requires 1200 U of Cellulase, 120 U of Xylanase and 700 U of Pectinase for maximum hydrolysis and each gram of groundnut haulm requires 1600 U of Cellulase, 100 U of Xylanase and 600 U of Pectinase for maximum hydrolysis.

18 ref

006607   KOZLU T, SARI E K, BOZKURT Y A, KURTDEDE N (Histology and Embryology Dep, Mustafa Kemal Univ, Hatay, Turkey, Email: tolunaykozlu@hotmail.com) : Immunohıstochemıcal staınıng of CD3, CD79αcy and S-100 on bursa fabrıcıus, thymus and spleen of turkeys (Meleagrıs gallapavo). Indian J Anim Res 2019, 53(11), 1450-4.

Distribution of CD₃, CD79ácy and S-100, immunohistochemically, in the bursa of Fabricius, thymus and spleen has not been reported in turkeys. Therefore, we determined the localisation of anti-CD₃ protein antibodies for mature T-lymphocytes, anti-CD_79ácy antibodies for B-lymphocytes and anti-S-100 protein antibodies for follicular dentritic cells in the bursa of Fabricius, thymus and spleen, which are the lymphoid organs, in a study sample of turkeys. Triple staining method was applied to demonstrate the general structure. Moreover, in all the organs positive reactions were observed with the CD₃, CD79ácy and S-100 antibodies. It was also found that similar areas had a positive reaction with CD79ácy and S-100 in all of the tested organs. It was remarkable that CD79ácy reacted positively on Hassall’s corpuscles (strongly) and the reticular cells (weakly) in the medulla of the thymus instead of the B-lymphocyte positive areas. 

30 ref

006645   SOOD S, YADAV A, KATOCH R, BHAGAT M, SHARMA A, RAHMAN S, VERMA P, RAJAT, KHURSHEED A. GANAI A, SHARMA S (Shere Kashmir Univ of Agriculture Sciences and Technology-Jammu, Jammu and Kashmir-181 102, Email: shilpasoo@gmail.com) : Oxidative stress and clinico-pathological alterations induced by Cryptosporidium parvum infection in a rat model. Indian J Anim Res 2019, 53(11), 1431-5.

Cryptosporidium parvum is an apicomplexan zoonotic enteric protozoa that is principally responsible for severe necrotizing enteritis in immunocompromised hosts and has been associated with diarrhoea in a wide variety of animal species. The work was carried out on 48 rats which were equally divided into four groups: GI, GII, GIII and GIV. Rats in GI worked as healthy control. Rats in GII were administered C. parvum oocysts orally, GIII received dexamethasone, whereas GIV were given dexamethasone along with C. parvum oocysts. The maximum severity of experimental infection and oocyst shedding was observed on 8th DPI in Group IV rats who exhibited depression, inappetance, poor fur condition, decreased weight gain, bloody diarrhoea and highest mortality rate. Significant increase in LPO and decrease in SOD, CAT and GSH concentrations were seen in intestine in GIV rats at 8th DPI indicating the involvement of free radical induced oxidative stress in the pathogenesis of C. parvum infection. Severe necrotizing and haemorrhagic enteritis was seen in Group IV rats, whereas Group II animals had mild enteritis. Pathological examination of intestines in Group IV animals revealed extensive necrosis, blunting, fusion and sloughing of intestinal villi. Severe lymphocytic infiltration in lamina propria and submucosa was also observed. The diarrhoea and oocyst shedding gradually subsided after 8th DPI and completely resolved in GII whereas mild enteritis was still seen in GIV animals at 12thDPI.  It was inferred from the present study that C. parvum strains prevalent in Jammu were capable of causing severe enteric infection in immunosuppressed rats. 

5 illus, 1 table, 32 ref

006616   MOHAMED S H, SAIED Y M (Microbiology Dep, National Organization for Drug Control and Research, Giza, Egypt, Email: sara_hussein_moh@yahoo.com) : Ascorbic acid inhibitory activity on resistant strains of Enterobacter spp: In vitro study. Curr Res Pharmaceut Sci 2019, 9(4), 67-72.

Enterobacterspecies, members of Enterobacteriaceae family that belong to the ESKAPE group, were expressed  as the  principal  rise  of  nosocomial  resistant  infections. This  study  was  aimed  to  test  the antibacterial activity of ascorbic acid on Enterobacterclinical strains. Four Enterobacterstrains were collected  and  identified  by  both  biochemical  and  MALDI-TOF methods.  Antibiotic  susceptibility testing of commercially  available  antibiotics was performed using disc diffusion method. Antibacterial activity of ascorbic acid was tested by using agar well diffusion and broth microdilution methods. The collected strains were identified as three strains Enterobacteraero genes and one strain Enterobacter cloacae. High resistance rates toward both cefotaxime and nalidixic acid were obtained by  disc diffusion  method. By well diffusion,100  mg/ml and 50 mg/ml concentrations  of  ascorbic acid were found to be effective. While by using microbroth dilution, concentrations of 1.5, 3.125 and 6.25  mg/ml  of  ascorbic  acid  were  detected  as  minimum  inhibitory  concentrations. Our results demonstrated  a  good  antibacterial activity of ascorbic  acid  on Enterobacterstrains  and  further studies on ascorbic acid/antibiotics combinations are in need.

1 illus, 2 tables, 36 ref

006653   UPADHYAY S K, SINGH R, KUMAR P, SINGH M, YADAV M, KUMAR V, AGGARWAL D, SEHRAWAT N (Biotechnology Dep, Maharishi Markandeshwar Univ, Mullana, Ambala, Email: sushil.upadhyay@mmumullana.org) : In vitro antitubercular activity of dihydropyridine-dicarboxamide and pyrazole derivatives against Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Bull Pure Appl Sci-Sect A 2019, 38A(2), 102-9.

The 1,4-dihydropyridine (DHP) is the most feasible heterocyclic ring with various substitutions at several positions. The DHP and pyrazole are ever-growing due to their varied biological, pharmaceutical and therapeutic applications. The antitubercular activity of some DHP and pyrozole derivatives (BPD, CMBPD, NMBPD, DPD, DNDDP, DMDDP, BEMPMP, OMEMPMP, KPEMPMP, CEMTDP and NEPMCP) have been documented in the present study. The in vitro activity of selected compounds as antitubercular agents have been measured in term of zone of inhibition (ZI) and minimum inhibitory concentration value (MIC, MIC₅₀ and MIC₉₀). The compounds BPD, DNDDP, CEMTDP, NEPMCP showed good antitubercular activity against Mycobacterium tuberculosis with zone of inhibition 20-21mm and MIC value ranged between 5-12. The other derivatives DPD, CMBPD, OMEMPMP demonstrated moderate antitubercular activity against M. tuberculosis with zone of inhibition 14 to 17mm with MIC value 10 to 14. However, compounds NMBPD, DMDDP showed remarkable antitubercular activity against M. tuberculosis with zone of inhibition 21mm and MIC value 4-5. While the compounds BEMPMP, KPEMPMP showed mild activity against M. tuberculosis with zone of inhibition 11-12mm and MIC value between 17- 20.

2 illus, 3 tables, 32 ref

006622   NWOGUEZE B C, OJIEH A E, OSSAI R N, EKE C, UFEARO S C (Human Physiology Dep, Delta State Univ, Delta, Nigeria, Email: tonniojie@gmail.com) : Reproductive function evaluation in female Wistar rats treated with aqueous leaf extract of Cissus aralioides. Biosci Biotech Res Asia 2019, 16(4), 857-64.

Medicinal plants are increasingly getting recognition. Cissus aralioides is a lofty climber belonging to the family of Vitaceae and widely distributed in South-Eastern region of Nigeria. Varied therapeutic benefits as well as well health harming effects have been reported about the plant. This study evaluated the effects of aqueous extract of Cissus aralioides leaf on reproductive functions in female Wistar rats. 72 adult female Wistar rats weighing between 110-180/g were used for the study. The animals were randomly grouped into 6 groups of twelve rats each (n=12). Groups 1 and 2 served as control while groups 3 to 6 were the experimental groups and were administered (100/mg, 200/mg, 300/mg and 500/mg)/kg of the extract respectively for 4 weeks. At the end of the experiment, blood samples were collected and centrifuged to obtain the serum for biochemical analysis for Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH), Estrogen and Luteinizing Hormone (LH). Data were analyzed using the SPSS package and expressed as mean± SEM and ANOVA. There was significant body weight reduction across groups administered with the extract. Also, there were significant decrease in estrogen level in groups that received 300/mg/kg and 500/mg/kg when compared with the control groups, a similar decrease was not observed with LH and FSH across the groups. Observations from this study shows that aqueous leaf extract of Cissus aralioides decreases circulating levels of estrogen in female Wistar rats.

10 illus, 3 tables, 19 ref

006556   AL-SHEREES H A A, AL-KHATEEB S N A, AL-MUHANNAK F H N (Microbiology Dep, Kufa Univ, Kufa, Iraq, Email: hashimaa49@yahoo.com) : Immunological activities of isoprinosine inhibition on viral infections in human. Biosci Biotech Res Asia 2019, 16(4), 773-8.

Isoprinosineis a combination of inosine used as antiviral drug without effect on viral particle itself, but instead only and acts as on immunostimulant and also acts indirectly by activation of immune cells. Aim of this study was to determine level of interferon-alpha (INF-á) withparainfluenza viruses HPIV-2, and adenoviruses HAdV-2 replication. In the present study, cytotoxic effect of isoprinosine was assessed using A549 cell line exposed to different concentrations of compound (isoprinosine: 50-800ìg/mL) for 48 hours. Cytotoxic effect was examined visually using light, inverted microscopy Olympus CK2 under 400x magnification and by the MTT colorimetric assay. The yield reduction assay (YRA), which evaluates the ability of the isoprinosine(50-800 ìg/mL) to inhibit virus multiplication in cell cultures, was applied. The cytopathic effect of the virus was evaluated 48 h after infection of A549 cell cultures with viruses by means of light, inverted microscopy. The YRA method was used to determine the 50% end point (IC₅₀) in the presence of Isoprinosine with the controlled one. MTT cytotoxicity assay confirmed microscopic observations.There were no morphological changes, as assessed visually, in cell cultures treated with isoprinosine. After conducting the experiments and analyzing the results we noticed that higher concentrations of isoprinosinestrongly inhibited multiplication of all viruses. HPIV-2 and HAdV-2 showed the highest sensitivity to the antiviral activity of isoprinosine as compared with the control, however, increasing concentrations of isoprinosineup to 800 ìg /ml slightly enhanced the antiviral activity of 400 ìg/ml isoprinosine. Our study was conducted that HAdV-2 and HPIV-2 have the highest sensitivity to the antiviral activity of isoprinosine from all tested viral strains.

2 tables, 33 ref

006609   LI M, YIN L, WU L, ZHU Y, WANG X (The First People’s Hospital of Wenling, Wenling, China) : Paclitaxel induces apoptosis in osteosarcoma via promoting the production of reactive oxygen species and inhibiting the expression of cyclooxygenase-2. Biomed Res 2019, 30(6), 1-9.

The present study was designed to investigate the possible molecular mechanisms of apoptosis in osteosarcoma induced by paclitaxel. Cell viability was detected in human osteosarcoma cell line HOS-732 treated with paclitaxel at different concentrations. The apoptosis and reactive oxygen species (ROS) production rates were determined by flow cytometry. COX-2 expression at mRNA and protein levels in osteosarcoma tissues were measured by quantitative real time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and Western blotting. Paclitaxel can obviously inhibit the proliferation of HOS-732 cells in a dose-dependent manner. The production of ROS in HOS-732 cells was remarkably increased with the increasing concentration of paclitaxel. Moreover, paclitaxel can significantly inhibit the expression of COX-2 at mRNA and protein levels in rat osteosarcoma tissue. Furthermore, the inhibitory effects of paclitaxel on COX-2 expression at mRNA and protein levels were dose-related. Paclitaxel treatment can induce the apoptosis and increase the production of ROS in HOS-732 cells. Moreover, paclitaxel can decrease the expression of COX-2 in a dose-dependent manner. These findings suggested that paclitaxel-induced apoptosis in osteosarcoma could be ascribed to the increased production of ROS and the reduction of COX-2 expression.

3 illus, 1 table, 22 ref

006573   CHEN D, ZHANG J, YAN F, WU Y, LI N, XIE X, CAO D (Laboratory Medicine Dep, Guangdong Second Provincial General Hospital, Guangdong Province, China) : The research on mechanism of Klebsiella pneumoniae resistant to carbapenem antibiotics. Biomed Res 2019, 30(6), 1-6.

To investigate the resistance mechanism of Klebsiella pneumoniae (Kpn) resistant to carbapenems. K-B assay was used to determine the susceptibility of Klebsiella pneumoniae strains to antibiotics. Six isolated strains were identified and collected, which were resistant to carbapenems using modified Hodge test. The phenotypes of metal enzyme were detected with EDTA (Ethylene diamine tetraacetic acid) disk diffusion method. The genes of beta lactamases, included KPC gene were confirmed. The six carbapenems resistant strains of Klebsiella pneumoniae were resistant to imipenem, meropenem, aztreonam, etc., but sensitive to amikacin, fosfomycin, minocycline, and polymyxin. The metal enzyme could not be produced by these six pathogens, but all these six strains could produce carbapenemases. Moreover, the six strains partically carried with blaTEM or blaSHV, but all with blaKPC-2.  We thought that the key factor of the resistance mechanism to carbapenem for Klebsiella pneumoniae maybe these pathogens contain blaKPC-2 gene.

4 illus, 2 tables, 21 ref

006559   ANGÉLICA D L C-R, FERNANDO M-S, MARICELA H-S, LAURA M-M, JULIETA C-C (Autonomous Univ of the State of Mexico, Mexico, North America) : Importance of the identification of the CYP3A4*2 polymorphism for the prescription of pharmacological treatment. Biomed Res 2019, 30(6), 871-4.

Variability in response to drugs is a problem in clinical practice. The rate of patients who respond adequately to pharmacological therapy is generally around 60. The CYP450 multienzyme complex is a microsomal system located in the endoplasmic reticulum. The enzymes participate in phase I metabolism of xenobiotics. CYP3A4 is the isoenzyme mostly expressed in liver. Its gene is polymorphic, of which CYP3A4*1A is the wild allele and CYP3A4*2 is a polymorphism which consists of the S222P substitution in the amino acid sequence, affecting the activity of the enzyme. In this study, we determine the frequency of CYP3A4*2 polymorphism in Mexican individuals. 62 apparently healthy individuals, from Toluca de Lerdo, Mexico. The sample was 3 mL of peripheral blood. The DNA was extracted and PCR-RFLPs were performed. 58 individuals possess the wild allele in homozygosity CYP3A4*1A/CYP3A4*1A (94 %) and 4 individuals were heterozygous CYP3A4*1A/CYP3A4*2 (6 %). The homozygous polymorphic CYP3A4*2/CYP3A4*2 was not found in any individual. The CYP3A4*2 polymorphism is rare in the population studied. Given the low frequency of CYP3A4*2 polymorphisms found in homozygous or heterozygous condition, it is advisable to consider the genotype of the patient before prescribing drugs metabolized by this gene.

1 table, 26 ref

006637   REVATHY R, LANGESWARAN V K, BALASUBRAMANIAN M P (Pharmacology and Environmental Toxicology Dep, Madras Univ, Chennai, Tamil Nadu) : Toxicological perspective of cadmium on estuarine edible crab Scylla serrata regarding ovarian maturation. Biomed Res 2019, 30(6), 900-13.

Cadmium is more toxic to animals and humans even at low concentration than utmost toxic metals, and naturally they are non-degradable can disorder biological systems. Industries and factories cadmium salts liquefy in environmental waste water and finally interrupt the marine living systems. The present study aim is to investigate the impact of cadmium in the estuarine edible crab Scylla serrata regarding some biochemical constituents. Crabs were divided into two groups whereas crabs belonging to group I were treated as control (cadmium free-seawater). Crabs belonging to group II were exposed to cadmium at 20 mg/L concentration. The transaminase activity and estimation antioxidants enzymes have been analyzed in the ovary, hepatopancreas, muscle and haemolymph of edible crab Scylla serrate during several periods of the ovarian maturation. Notable alterations in the activities of biochemical constituents and reproductively active aquatic animal’sphysiological occupations were totally uncharacterized due to heavy metal pollution and finally injury progression of reproduction. The outcomes exposed that, amplified levels of transaminase and contractions activity of antioxidants in the cadmium reared crabs when compared to the control. The observed results of this experiment were tested statistically.

7 illus, 6 tables, 37 ref

006560   ASATRYAN A L, ARTSRUNI I G, MATINYAN K S, KARAPETYAN A F, GEVORGYAN E S (Biophysics Dep, Yerevan State Univ, Yerevan, Armenia, Email: anush.asatryan@ysu.am) : Tannic acid-induced modulation of poly(adp-ribose) glycohydrolase and NAD⁺ content in rat liver and thymocyte nuclei. Asian J Pharmaceut 2019, 13(4), 368-74.

The goal of the present study was to determine whether the treatment of intact rats with tannic acid (TA) could alter activities of the main players in poly(ADP-ribose) (PAR) polymers turnover. Animals were treated according to the regulations of the National Center of Bioethics (Armenia). Cell nuclei were isolated according to standard procedure. PAR polymerase 1 (PARP 1) activity was evaluated by NAD+ consumption. PAR glycohydrolase (PARG) protein was estimated by sandwich ELISA method. Data are expressed as mean ± standard deviation (SD). Statistical differences in the results between groups were evaluated by the Student’s t-test. P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. The results demonstrate relatively stable stimulation of PARP 1 activity in liver and thymocyte nuclei of rats treated with TA. TA stimulated PARP 1 activation in thymocyte and liver nuclei is paralleled with drop in NAD+content for more than 30 % below basal level. The concentration of PARG in liver nuclei exceeded the basal value of PARG content in thymocyte nuclei nearly 3.5-fold. In 24 h after administration of TA to animals the content of PARG protein in thymocyte nuclei decreased by 30 %. Decrease of PARG content in liver nuclei was more substantial and proceeded for 48 h after the treatment of rats with TA.  TA-induced stimulation of PARP 1 in liver and thymocyte nuclei paralleled with decrease in NAD+ and PARG content could alter PAR polymer turnover and mediate genotoxic effect of TA revealed by light microscopy examination of liver.

4 illus, 1 table, 37 ref

006608   KUDAMALA R R, SATYANARAYANA S V, VEERAM J R (Pharmacology Dep, Krishna Teja Pharmacy Coll, Tirupati- 517 506, Email: k.rameshreddy88@gmail.com) : Clobetasol-loaded dermal nanostructured lipid carriers for the treatment of imiquimod induced psoriasis in mice. Asian J Pharmaceut 2019, 13(4), 340-8.

The aim of current investigation to prepare nanostructured lipid carrier system for topical delivery of clobetasol-loaded nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs) gel for ease of application on psoriatic dermal and to evaluate its antipsoriatic efficacy compare with conventional clobetasol ointment formulation.  The objective was to develop a nanogel composed of clobetasol (clobetasol -17-propionate [CP])-loaded NLCs (CP-NLCs) and to evaluate its efficiency in imiquimod (IMQ)-induced psoriasis in mice. CP-NLCs nanogel was prepared by emulsification and sonication method and optimized by design of experiments. Particle size (PS), polydispersity index (PDI), and entrapment efficiency (EE) were selected as the critical quality attributes. Antipsoriatic efficiency of CP-NLCs nanogel was evaluated by psoriatic area and severity index (PASI) score and histopathological examination in the IMQ-induced psoriasis model. Optimized formulation CP-NLCs showed that PS, PDI, and % EE were found to be 95.3 ± 2.56 nm, 0.192 ± 0.011, and 81.3 ± 2.59%, respectively. At the end of 24 h, CP-NLCs gel exhibited slow and prolonged release of CP (74.6 ± 3.82% vs. 35.1 ± 3.58) compared to CP-ointment. Furthermore, it significantly reduced the PASI score with recovery of normalcy of the mice’s skin, while the CP-loaded gel shown signs of hyper and parakeratosis at the end of the study.The formulated CP-NLCs gel can be a promising alternative treatment for psoriasis

4 illus, 1 table, 18 ref

006614   MISHRA M N, DANDE K, MISHRA D, RANI A, KUMAR M (Anatomy Dep, Era’s Lucknow Medical Coll and Hospital, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, Email: mumalnagwani@yahoo.in) : Morphometric and morphologic study of foramen ovale in Indian population. Asian J Med Sci 2019, 10(6), 71-4.

The floor of middle cranial fossa shows several foramina through which vital neural and vascular structures pass. Thus, the knowledge of normal and variant anatomy of these foramina is important. One such foramen is Foramen ovale which allows the passage of certain important structures. This study also aimed to provide a base line data to neurosurgeons for easy and safe approach to middle cranial fossa. Thus, to fulfill the above, the morphometric and morphologic characteristics of the foramen ovale were studied and the observed metric and non-metric parameters were compared with those of previous studies. The study has been conducted on 160 adult nonpathological dry human skulls of unknown age and sex. Those parts of broken skulls were included in the study in which the area of Foramen ovale was intact. All the parameters were obtained by one observer only to avoid inter-observer error. The foramen ovale was identified and different metric and non-metric parameters were observed and measured. The most common shape on both sides was noted to be transversely oval. Out of 160 skulls, 2 skulls (1.25 %) showed accessory FO bilaterally. 4 skulls showed divided FO on left side. Out of 4, 2 skulls(1.25 %) were noted to have bony bar and in 2 skulls (1.25 %) the main FO were divided by bony plate.The morphologic variations of Foramen Ovale in the form of accessory foramen and presence of bony bar/bony plate are common. This study will provide a baseline data as well as frequency of related variations in our population for a safer approach by the surgeons.

2 illus, 4 tables, 10 ref

006632   POCHHI M (Biochemistry Dep, Shri Shankaracharya Institute of Medical Science, Nagpur- 440 025, Email: m_pochhi@hotmail.com) : An antioxidant activity of Cinnamonum tamala improves histopathological alterations and biochemical parameters in alloxan induced diabetic rats. Asian J Med Sci 2019, 10(6), 50-6.

Diabetic mellitus is a multifactorial disorder associated with its devastating consequences has assumed epidemic proportion. Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a global health problem and the incidence of DM is increasing at alarming rate all over the world. Many Indian medicinal plants have been reported to possess potential antidiabetic activity and could play important role in the management of diabetes with less adverse effects. The main objective of this study was to focus on the anti-diabetic activity of Cinnamomum tamala, with special reference to its curative and protective role in alloxan induced diabetic rats. Attempts were further made to study the antioxidant properties of C. tamala leaves. The diabetic rats were administered orally with the aqueous leaves extracts of Cinnamonum tamala (250 mg/kg) for 30 days. The results were compared with standard drug Tolbutamide. The alloxan treated diabetic control rats showed a significant increase in the plasma glucose, glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1C), glucose-6-phosphatase, aldolase, LDH, ALT, AST, ALP and GGT activity, free radicals formation with a concomitant decrease in glycogen content in the liver and serum insulin level and phosphoglucoisomerase and hexokinase activity in tissues as compared to normal control rats. Oral administration of C. tamala extract for 30 days showed significant result as compared to Tolbutamide and diabetic control rats. On the basis of above findings it can be concluded that extracts of C. tamala to alloxan induced diabetic rats showed significant positive changes in the biochemical and histopathological parameters related to carbohydrate and protein metabolism. Further studies should be undertaken to find out the molecular mechanism of C. Tamala.

4 illus, 4 tables, 52 ref

006570   CHAUDHURI S, BISWAS U K, KUMAR A (Biochemistry Dep, North Bengal Medical Coll, Darjeeling, West Bengal, Email: drutpalbiswas2010@gmail.com) : Association of serum hydrogen sulphide with hypertension and proteinuria in pre-eclampsia. Asian J Med Sci 2019, 10(6), 33-8.

Preeclampsia is a hypertensive disorder of pregnancy affecting multiple systems and characterized chiefly by hypertension and proteinuria in a previously normotensive and non proteinuric women. The main underlying cause for its pathophysiology is an imbalance between the physiological vasoconstrictor and vasodilator molecules in circulation leading to maternal endothelial dysfunction. Hydrogen sulphide (H₂S) is a physiological vasodilatory gasotransmitter which plays an important role in the development of hypertension and proteinuria in preeclampsia. The aim of this study was to determine the serum level of hydrogen sulphide and spot urinary protein levels in preeclampsia cases and compare it with age matched controls which were normal pregnant women and to find any correlation, if exists, between these two parameters. Serum level of H2S and spot urinary protein level were measured in one hundred pregnant women with preeclampsia and the values were compared with age matched controls. The mean serum H₂S level was 32.31 ± 12.62 μmol/L in patients which was significantly lower (p<0.001) when compared to controls where mean was 114.50 ± 20.35 μmol/L. The mean spot urinary protein level was found to be 11.83 ± 5.06 mg/dl in preeclampsia cases which was significantly higher (p<0.001) than in controls where it was 7.18 ± 2.38 mg/dl. A negative correlation was found between the serum level of H₂S and both the systolic BP (r=-0.725, p<0.001) and diastolic BP (r= - 0.639, p<0.001) in preeclampsia patients.A negative correlation was also observed between the serum levels of H₂S and spot urinary protein in preeclampsia (r=-0.541, p<0.001). The present study has elucidated that the serum levels of hydrogen sulphide decreases and the spot urinary protein levels increases in preeclampsia when compared to normal pregnant women and hydrogen sulphide shows a negative correlation with both systolic and diastolic BP in preeclampsia. This study also demonstrates that,there exists a negative correlation between the serum H₂S level and spot urinary protein level in preeclampsia patients.

4 illus, 1 table, 21 ref

006561   BAKIR A, KARABULUT N, ALACAM S, BAKIR B, AGACFIDAN A (Medical Microbiology Dep, Istanbul Univ, Istanbul- 34000, Email: dr.ayfer.bakir@gmail.com) : The distribution of hepatitis C virus genotypes in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma. Asian J Med Sci 2019, 10(6), 28-32.

Hepatic cirrhosis develops within 20-30 years in approximately 20 % of individuals chronically infected with hepatitis C virus (HCV).  This study aimed to determine the distribution of HCV genotypes in patients with HCV-associated HCC in our region and thus to contribute to the epidemiology of HCV. HCC patients referred to the virology laboratory for HCV genotype identification between January 2013 and April 2018 were included in this study. Genotyping of HCV was performed by a commercial reverse hybridization line probe-based assay. Seventeen patients who were diagnosed with HCC and whose HCV genotypes were analyzed were included in this study. Genotype 1 was detected in all 17 patients with HCC. When evaluating subtypes of genotype 1, genotype 1b was detected in 16 (94%) of the patients. The HCV subtyping in one patient (6 %) could not be performed. As a result, genotype 1b, one of the major risk factors for HCC, was detected in 94% of the patients included in this study. This study, consistent with the literature, shows a high association between the development of HCC and genotype 1b in patients with chronic HCV.

2 illus, 32 ref

006644   SHRESTHA D, SHRESTHA R, HENDRIKSEN R S, SHARMA L B, BHATTA D R (Microbiology Dep, Tribhuvan Univ, Kathmandu, Nepal, Email: dipsnepal@gmail.com) : Human skin bacterial flora differ with altitudes in different ethnic groups of Nepal. Asian J Med Sci 2019, 10(6), 11-7.

Largest organ of human body, the skin, is colonized by millions of microorganisms, most of which are not only harmless but also beneficial to the host. Human skin microbes depend upon geographical variations, ethnicity and various host factors. Despite several studies on human skin microbiota in various parts of the globe, it has not been studied in Nepalese population. To identify skin bacterial normal flora in different ethnic groups residing in different altitude of Nepal. We cultured skin swabs of 166 randomly selected volunteers belonging to 10 major ethnic groups from 3 distinct geographical altitudes of Nepal, viz. Bharatpur (415 m from sea level), Kathmandu (1,400 m from sea level) and Lukla (2,860 m from sea level). The isolated organisms were characterized and tested for their susceptibility against different antibiotics. Altogether 231 bacterial isolates were characterized from 166 skin samples. Among them, 140 isolates (60.60 %) were Gram positive and 91 isolates (39.40 %) were Gram negative bacteria. Staphylococcus aureus (35.49 %) was the most dominant skin bacterial flora followed by Escherichia coli (22.51 %) and Streptococcus spp. (17.75 %). Medium altitude Kathmandu exhibited the highest growth (120 isolates) followed by low land Bharatpur (66 isolates) and high land Lukla (51 isolates) which is statistically significant (p value =0.0124). The antibiotic susceptibility testing against 14 antibiotics exhibited the Gram positive isolates were the most sensitive to Imipenem (94.93 %) whereas the least sensitive to Cephalexin (31.36 %) and the Gram negative isolates were the most sensitive to Amikacin (100 %) whereas the least sensitive to Amoxycillin (28.57 %). Our data indicates that the skin bacterial normal flora; which is directly exposed to external environment; has significant relationship with altitudes where individuals live. The result desires further study for the adaptability of normal flora found in different altitudes. Some bacterial commensals were found resistant even against new generations of antibiotics as well, and hence can cause life-threatening infections if they happen to cross the skin physical barrier.

4 tables, 25 ref

006554   AIGBE F R, SOFIDIYA O M, JAMES A B, SOWEMIMO A A, AKINDERE O K, ALIU M O, DOSUNMU A A, CHIJIOKE M C, ADEYEMI O O (Pharmacology Dep, Lagos Univ, Lagos, Nigeria, Email: fraigbe@cmul.edu.ng) : Evaluation of the toxicity potential of acute and sub-acute exposure to the aqueous root extract of Aristolochia ringens Vahl. (Aristolochiaceae). J Ethnopharmacol 2019, 244, 112150.

Aristolochia ringens Vahl. (Aristolochiaceae) is used traditionally in Nigeria for managing a number of ailments including gastrointestinal disturbances, rheumatoid arthritis, pile, insomnia, oedema, and snake bite venom. Some studies in our laboratory have demonstrated a scientific justification for some of such uses. This study aims at investigating the toxicological actions of the aqueous root extract of Aristolochia ringens (AR). Brine shrimp lethality assay was carried out using 10, 100 and 1000 μg/ml of the extract. Oral and intraperitoneal acute toxicity tests were carried out using mice. The effect of sub-acute (30 days) repeated oral exposure to the extract at 10, 50 and 250 mg/kg in rats was also evaluated via weekly assessments of body weights and general observations as well as end of exposure haematological, biochemical and histological examinations of blood and tissue samples of treated rats. Phytochemical analyses to determine the presence of aristolochic acid I in the extract was also carried out using high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). The aqueous root extract of A. ringens showed potential for biological activity and cytotoxicity with an LC₅₀ of 175 μg/ml in brine shrimps. AR was found to be relatively safe on acute oral exposure with LD₅₀ estimated to be greater than 10 g/kg, while its LD₅₀ on intraperitoneal administration was 407.38 mg/kg. Upon 30 days sub-chronic exposure, AR induced significant weight loss in female rats, enlargement of male rats' stomach, oxidative stress in male and female rats’ kidney and liver tissues and disruption of leukocytes level in female rats. It also showed evidence of kidney and liver injuries inducible by oxidative damage and the potential to cause male sterility. HPLC revealed the presence of 0.003 mg/1 g of aristolochic acid in AR. These results show that AR contains detectible aristolochic acid I and has potential to induce toxic responses. Caution must therefore be exercised in its medicinal application especially when required for a prolonged use.

47 ref

006594   GUPTA K, CHUNDAWAT T S (Applied Sciences Dep, The NorthCap Univ, Gurugram- 122 017, Email: chundawatchem@yahoo.co.in) : Role of enzymes in synthesis of biologically important organic scaffolds. Asian J Chem 2019, 31(12), 2698-2706.

Green route of biogenic synthesis of heterocyclic compounds via microbes (bacteria, fungi, virus, yeast, algae, etc.) has the potential to deliver clean manufacturing technology. The application of biocatalysts for the synthesis of novel compounds has attracted increasing attention over the past few years and consequently, high demands have been placed on the identification of new biocatalysts for organic synthesis. Enzymes play an increasingly important role as biocatalysts in the synthesis of key intermediates for the pharmaceutical and chemical industry, and new enzymatic technologies. The characteristics of biocatalyst can be tailored with protein engineering and metabolic engineering methods to meet the desired process conditions. This review discusses the synthetic application of all the six classes of enzymes which are oxidoreductase, transferase, hydrolase, lyase, isomerase and ligase. Enzymes are highly selective catalysts and their contribution to regio-, chemo- and stereoselectivity of compounds were also discussed.

2 tables, 74 ref

006615   MODI M A, KALE N V, PATEL J H, VARIA R D, MODI F D, VIHOL P D (Veterinary Pharmacology and Toxicology Dep, Navsari Agricultural Univ, Navsari- 396 450, Email: drjatinvet@yahoo.co.in) : Pharmacokinetics of ferulic acid following oral administration ethyl ferulate alone and in combination with piperine in rats. Ann Phytomed 2019, 8(2), 194-8.

The present study was undertaken to evaluate pharmacokinetics of ferulic acid following oral administration of ethyl ferulate alone and in combination with piperine in rats. Following oral administration of ethyl ferulate and in combination with piperine, the mean peak plasma ferulic acid concentration of 18.38 ± 1.38 vs 15.27 ± 1.18 µg/ ml was achieved at 0.25 h. Plasma concentration of ferulic acid at 0.5 h differ significantly (p<0.05) and plasma concentration of ferulic acid at 0.08 h, 0.25 h, 0.75 h and 1 h did not differ significantly. All pharmacokinetic parameter of ferulic acid did not differ significantly except volume of distribution (1.25 ± 0.12 vs 2.85 ± 0.57 L/ kg) and total body clearance (7.35 ± 0.57 vs 17.19 ± 1.59 L/h/kg).The study indicates rapid absorption and clearance of ferulic acid from body following oral administration of ethyl ferulate alone and in combination with piperine in rats.

3 illus, 2 tables, 22 ref

006633   PRAJAPATI J A, HUMBAL B R, SADARIYA K A, BHAVSAR S K, THAKER A M (Veterinary Pharmacology and Toxicology Dep, Anand Agricultural Univ, Anand- 388 001, Email: dr_kasadariya@yahoo.co.in) : Safety assessment of Cinnamomum zeylanicum Blume oil in male and female Wistar rats. Ann Phytomed 2019, 8(2), 172-8.

The aim of the present study was to evaluate safety of cinnamon oil (Cinnamomum zeylanicum Blume) in male and female wistar rats. Forty wistar rats divided into eight groups, each group contains 5 males and 5 females. Group I and V served as vehicle control for male and female, respectively. Cinnamon oil was administered orally at dose of 50, 100 and 200 mg/kg body weight, once daily for 28 days in male rats of Groups II, III and IV as well as in female rats of Groups VI, VII and VIII, respectively. There was no significant difference was observed in body weight and feed consumption of II, III and IV as compare to Group I (male control), as well as female rats of Groups VI, VII and VIII as compared to Group V (female control). No significant changes have been observed in hematology parameters like Hb, RBCs, PCV, TLCs, MCV, MCH and MCHC, as well as no significant changes observed in serum creatinine, BUN, bilirubin, AST, ALT, total cholesterol, total protein and albumin in cinnamon oil treated male rats of Groups II, III and IV and in female rats of Groups VI, VII and VIII as compared to male and female control rats, respectively at the end of experiment. Histopathology of kidney, liver, spleen and heart from cinnamon oil treated male and female rats did not show any marked gross or histopathological changes. Results of the present study suggested that cinnamon oil was found safe, following repeated oral administration @ 50, 100 and 200 mg/kg b.wt., once daily for 28 days in male and female wistar rats.

10 illus, 4 tables, 28 ref

006596   HUMBAL B R, SADARIYA K A, PRAJAPATI J A, BHAVSAR S K, THAKER A M (Veterinary Pharmacology and Toxicology Dep, Anand Agricultural Univ, Anand- 388 001, Email: dr_kasadariya@yahoo.co.in) : Anti-inflammatory activity of Syzygium aromaticum (L.) Merrill & Perry oil in carrageenan-induced paw edema in female rats. Ann Phytomed 2019, 8(2), 167-71.

The present study was planned to evaluate in vivo anti-inflammatory activity of Syzygium aromaticum (L.) Merrill & Perry oil (clove oil), following single dose oral administration @ 100, 250 and 500 mg/kg in female wistar rats by using carrageenan-induced paw edema model. Twenty five rats were divided randomly into 5 groups and each group consists of five female rats. All rats were injected subcutaneously with 0.1 ml of 10% w/v carrageenan suspension subcutaneously as a local acute edema inducer after 30 min subsequent to oral administration of clove oil. Rats of control groups were kept untreated. Rats of standard control group were treated orally with indomethacin @ 10 mg/ kg body weight as a reference standard drug. Rats of other three treatment groups were treated with clove oil @ 100, 250 and 500 mg/kg body weight, respectively. Edema was expressed as the increase in paw volume in ml and measured up to the tibiotarsal articulation. Volume of edematous paw was measured at 0 h (before treatment), 1, 2, 3, 4, 6 and 24 h after treatments. Increase in paw thickness was measured by using digital plethysmometer and per cent inhibition was calculated. The anti-inflammatory effect of clove oil was highest at 3 h (35.46 %) at the dose of 500 mg/kg. The anti-inflammatory effect of standard drug indomethacin (42.99 %) was higher than clove oil at 3 h. Clove oil at 3 h all doses gave higher anti-inflammatory effect. Clove oil showed dose dependent anti-inflammatory activity in female wistar rats.

2 illus, 2 tables, 32 ref

006630   PATEL V, MEHROTRA N, KHAN S A (Biochemistry Dep, Amrutben Jivanlal Coll of Commerce and Economics, Mumbai- 400 056, Email: nupur.mehrotra@mithibai.ac.in) : Ex vivo study of Cinnamomum zeylanicum Blume on antioxidative system and structural modifications of erythrocytes under hyperglycemic conditions. Ann Phytomed 2019, 8(2), 150-5.

Hyperglycemic exposure, ex vivo of erythrocytes is often employed as a model for understanding membrane modifications in erythrocytes due to enhanced oxidative stress in diabetes. Chronic hyperglycemia leads to free radicals' generation along with an increase in insulin resistance. In the current study, the effect of Cinnamomum zeylanicum Blume, hydroacetone extract on oxidative stress and membranes of erythrocytes exposed to hyperglycemic conditions was investigated. Hemolysis as a measure of lipid peroxidation was studied by exposing erythrocytes to an increasing glucose concentration in presence and absence of the cinnamon extract. In erythrocytes subjected to lower glucose concentrations, the percent hemolysis was higher. Higher glucose concentration attenuated hemolysis. Cinnamon extract supplementation reduced hemolysis by 91.20-50.10 % in presence of 10-100 mM glucose, respectively. The results also illustrated that cinnamon extract supplementation significantly reduced oxidative stress induced-damage and enhanced activity of superoxide dismutase, evaluated by inhibition of pyrogallol auto-oxidation. It can, thus be hypothesized that cinnamon can prevent lipid peroxidation and enzyme glycation in human erythrocytes under diabetic condition.

3 illus, 4 tables, 30 ref

006565   BOUATROUS Y (Natural Sciences and Life Dep, Mohamed Khider Univ, Biskra, Algeria, Email: y.bouatrous@univ-biskra.dz) : In vivo study of the antidiabetic activity of aqueous and acetonic extracts of Drimia maritima L.. Ann Phytomed 2019, 8(2), 134-40.

Diabetes is a metabolic syndrome characterized by chronic hyperglycemia due to a lack of insulin secretion, insulin action (sensitivity), or a combination of both. Postprandial hyperglycemia is highly dependent on the amount of monosaccharides absorbed and their rate of absorption in the small intestine. One of the therapeutic approaches to the treatment of diabetes is the inhibition of digestive enzymes (α amylase and α glucosidases). Our work is based on the evaluation of the antidiabetic activity of a medicinal plant, Drimia maritime L. They are investigated for their antidiabetic effect in vivo in mice subjected to postprandial hyperglycemia induced by starch or glucose. To this end, aqueous (decoction) and acetone extracts of different organs of two varieties of D. maritima have been prepared according to traditional use; have been subjected to phytochemical analysis to highlight different families of chemical compounds such as phenolic compounds including flavonoids, tannins and anthocyans. Among our results, we found that the content of different chemical compounds differs from one variety to another, and within the same variety from one organ to another. In comparison to the polyphenol content in the leaves and bulbs, it has been found that the content, in the leaves is higher than in the bulbs, so the red variety shows the high polyphenol content of 283µg. Eq AG/mg, compared to the white variety 152 µg. Eq AG/mg and flavonoids 98.68 µg. Eq catechin/mg extract on the other hand, the white variety 43.2 µg. Eq catechin/mg, The polyphenols measured in the different extracts, are mainly flavonoids and more concentrated for the acetone extract. Concerning anthocyanins, they are only found in the red variety. The results of antidiabetic activity show a positive correlation between polyphenols, flavonoids and anthocyanins and the behavior of diabetic mice. They are, therefore, responsible for this activity. Also, remains the use of acetone extracts of the red variety to treat diabetic mice, shows a greater effect than after 21 days reaches the value of 1.8 g/l, compared to the white variety, this phenomenon can explain by the different chemical composition between the two varieties of rill. These results confirm the traditional use of this plant as an antidiabetic, and highlight one of their possible mechanisms of action, the reduction of postprandial hyperglycemia by slowing intestinal glucose absorption.

12 illus, 3 tables, 21 ref

006558   ALSHAHRANI A M (Internal Medicine Dep, Shaqra Univ, Sahqra, Saudi Arabia, Email: alshahrani.md@su.edu.sa) : Appraisal of a neuroprotective consequence of Curcuma zedoaria Roxb. rhizomes on memory malfunction in oxidative tension convinced C6 glioma cells of rats. Ann Phytomed 2019, 8(2), 105-7.

Perennial herbaceous plant of the ginger family Zingiberaceae, Curcuma longa L. is competent in anticancer and neuroprotective development. The neuroprotective event of plant Curcuma zedoaria Roxb. from the same family has not yet documented. C. zedoaria rhizomes powder extracted by 70 % ethanol. The protective effects of C. zedoaria rhizomes on oxidative tension convinced cell destruction by tert-butyl hydroperoxide and hydrogen peroxide were examined by MTT test in C6 cell lines. Pretreatment with ethanolic extract of rhizomes of C. zedoaria effectively guarded the cell destruction convinced by oxidative tension in C6 cells with 71 % maximum cell viability. C. zedoaria pretreatment could alleviate oxidative tension in glioma C6 cells. In such a way ethanolic extract of rhizomes of C. zedoaria might be advantageous for forbidding the deterioration of learning and memory.

2 illus, 2 tables, 12 ref

006634   PURUSHOTHAMAN B P, KUTTAN R (Royal Dental Coll, Palakkad- 679 536, Email: amalacancerresearch@gmail.com) : Effect of green tea extract on the carbofuran induced toxicity in Wistar rats. Ann Phytomed 2019, 8(2), 55-63.

The present study is aimed to assess the effect of an extract of green tea on carbofuran induced toxicity in Wistar rats. Wistar rats were treated with carbofuran (5 mg/kg b.wt orally) for 30 days in the presence and absence of different concentrations of green tea extract. Administration of green tea extract was found to significantly reduce carbofuran induced toxicity in Wistar rats. Administration of green tea extract restored acetylcholinesterase (AChE) as well as other serum and tissue marker enzymes such as, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), creatine kinase (CK) and gamma glutamyl transferase ($\mathrm{\gamma }$-GT), mitochondrial and carbohydrate metabolizing enzymes, which were altered by carbofuran. Decreased levels of antioxidant enzymes and GSH during carbofuran administration were increased by the green tea administration. Similarly, green tea extract administration reduced oxidative stress markers which were increased during carbofuran administration. Moreover, altered neurobehavioral problems produced by carbofuran were reversed by the green tea administration. Biochemical alterations were accompanied by histopathological changes resulted from carbofuran toxicity which were ameliorated following green tea administration. These studies concluded that green tea administration effectively protected the rats from carbofuran toxicity.

1 illus, 9 tables, 42 ref

006611   MEHROTRA N, JADHAV K, RAWALGAONKAR S, KHAN S A, PAREKH B (Biochemistry Dep, Chauhan Institute of Science, Mumbai- 400 056, Email: nupur.mehrotra@mithibai.ac.in) : In vitro evaluation of selected Indian spices for α-amylase and α-glucosidase inhibitory activities and their spice-drug interactions. Ann Phytomed 2019, 8(2), 43-54.

India is believed to be crowned as the diabetes capital of the world by 2030. Considering the same, the present study was undertaken to elucidate the antidiabetic potential of selected Indian spices, viz., Cinnamomum zeylanicum Blume, Cuminum cyminum L., Laurus nobilis L., Piper nigrum L. and Elettaria cardamomum (L.) Maton. Phytochemical constituents of the spices were qualitatively identified and enzyme inhibitory assays performed. The study used 50% hydroacetone extracts of the above-mentioned five spices to evaluate in vitro α-amylase and α-glucosidase inhibitory activities. The IC50 for α-amylase inhibitory activity were 706.04 ± 0.07, 517.51 ± 0.09, 349.41 ± 0.12, 573.21 ± 0.08 and 376.18 ± 0.12 g/ml, while those for α-glucosidase inhibitory activity were 243.92 ± 0.13, 386.73 ± 0.11, 203.01 ± 0.15, 269.92 ± 0.14 and 182.85 ± 0.16 g/ml for C. zeylanicum, C. cyminum, L. nobilis, P. nigrum and E. cardamomum respectively. Statistical analysis suggests that the highest α-amylase inhibitory activity was exhibited by L. nobilis and E. cardamomum while the highest α-glucosidase inhibitory activity was observed for E. cardamomum. Diabetes is a disorder associated with many complications and diabetics generally consume spices as nutraceuticals along with their drug regime. Thus, the spice-drug interaction with two commonly used drugs, viz., Acarbose-an antidiabetic and Losartanan antihypertensive were also studied. The results suggest that spice-drug interactions significantly enhanced the inhibitory activities of α-amylase and α-glucosidase. The maximum increase in percent α-amylase inhibitory activity with Acarbose supplementation was observed in C. zeylanicum (74.52 %) with minimum for E. cardamomum (50.53 %) while in presence of Losartan, maximum and minimum enhancement were observed for C. cyminum (48.34 %) and C. zeylanicum (28.19 %), respectively. As for modulation of percent α-glucosidase inhibitory activity with Acarbose, C. cyminum (52.42 %) showed the highest enrichment while no change was observed in the case of P. nigrum, while with Losartan maximal enhancement was with C. zeylanicum (19.85 %) and minimum with C. cyminum (5.4 %). Such interactions are a double-edged sword having an advantage but can also result in fatal consequences. Thus, for developing functional food having antidiabetic properties, the study of such interactions becomes significant.

7 illus, 11 tables, 63 ref

006598   JAHANBANI ARDAKANI H, ALSAHEBFOSOUL F, ETEMADIFAR M, ABTAHI S-H (Immunology Dep, Isfahan Univ of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran, Email: alsahebfosoul@med.mui.ac.ir) : Interleukin 18 polymorphisms and its serum level in patients with multiple sclerosis. Ann Indian Acad Neurol 2019, 22(4), 474-6.

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic demyelinating disorder of central nervous system. Although the definite pathogenesis of MS has not been understood, crucial role of environmental and genetic risk factors has been proposed. To determine the serum level of interleukin‑18 (IL‑18) as well as gene polymorphisms of IL‑18 (rs1946518, rs360719, and rs187238). In this case–control study, 110 MS patients diagnosed according to the McDonald criteria and 110 healthy individuals were recruited. IL‑18 gene polymorphisms were genotyped by polymerase chain reaction high‑resolution melt test, and IL‑18 serum level was determined by enzyme‑linked immunosorbent assay technique. The mean age of the MS patients(89 females and 21 males) and the control group (89 females and 21 males) was 30.3 ± 9.25 and 30.28 ± 9.13 years, respectively. The mean serum levels of IL‑18 in MS patients and healthy individuals were 341.56 ± 39.22 Pg/Ml and 146.52 ± 29.30 Pg/Ml, respectively (P < 0.001). The genotype of rs1946518 (but not rs360719 and rs187238) was significantly different between groups (P = 0.037 and P = 0.069, respectively). In this study, we showed the significant higher IL‑18 serum level and significant different frequencies of two polymorphisms of IL‑18 in MS patients. These results show the important roles of IL‑18 in MS pathogenesis. However, more studies are needed to verify our results in larger sample size.

1 table, 23 ref

006553   AHMED S J, HASAN M A, ISLAM M R, SHAWAN M M A K, UDDIN M F, RAHMAN M N, HOSSAIN M M (Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Dep, Jahangirnagar Univ, Dhaka- 1342, Bangladesh, Email: mhossain@juniv.edu) : Incidence and antibiotic susceptibility profile of Pasteurella maltocida isolates isolated from goats in Savar Area of Bangladesh. Agric Sci Dig 2019, 39(4), 357-60.

In Bangladesh, goat farming is substantially hampered due to outbreaks of respiratory infectious diseases like pneumonia causing morbidity, mortality and economic losses in Black Bengal goats. Among the infectious agents, Pasteurella maltocida is more frequently associated with the outbreak of acute pneumonia and death of goats. Hence, the occurrence of P. multocida in the goat population should be regularly investigated to effectively control the disease. Furthermore, antibiotic resistance/sensitivity profiling of P. maltocida also needs to be regularly updated for designing or updating of efficient treatment strategy. In this investigation, 150 nasal swab samples from goats were collected from Savar region of Bangladesh and on the basis of colony, staining and biochemical characteristics P. multocida were isolated in 25 samples. Disc diffusion assay was used to determine the antimicrobial susceptibility of 20 isolates against 9 different antimicrobial agents. This study revealed that the rate of P. multocida isolated from goats in Savar area was about 16.67%. The incidence of P. multocida was higher in goats affected with acute pneumonia than apparently healthy goats. P. multocida was fully resistant to penicillin and amoxicillin whereas showed high sensitivity towards ciprofloxacin followed by streptomycin and neomycin. This study suggests that ciprofloxacin, streptomycin and neomycin are potent anti-Pasteurella multocida drugs.

27 ref

006555   AL-RUBAEE S H, AL-AZAWI T S, TAHA A A (Agricultural Research Dep, Ministry of Science and Technology, Baghdad, Iraq, Email: dr.saja75@gmail.com) : Immunological effects of a single dose of PLGA nanoparticles encapsulated peptide in broilers in comparison to traditional vaccines against infectious Bursal disease. Agric Sci Dig 2019, 39(4), 347-52.

Infectious bursal disease is a viral poultry disease that causes economic losses. This study aimed to evaluate the white blood cells count (WBCs count), differential count, antibody (Ab) titration against IBDV and interferone gamma (INF-ã) responses in broiler administered traditional and prepared nanovaccines. A total of 98 broiler chicks (Ross 308) were used to evaluate the immunological responses. They were devided into G1(Control); G2- (Traditional vaccine); G3(PLGA nanoparticle); G4(160 µg of peptide loaded  PLGA); G5 (80 µg of peptide loaded  PLGA);  G6(40 µg of peptide loaded  PLGA) and G7(20 µg of peptide loaded  PLGA) by oral administration. At day 19 of broiler age, the chicken was administered orally with traditional and prepared nanovaccines and the blood was collected for Ab titration at day 10(for maternal immunity), day 29 and day 42 of broiler age. At the end of experiment, whole blood was collected for WBCs and differential count and for INF-ã level. The results indicated that there were no significant (pe” 0.05) differences among experimental groups in WBCs count while there were significant p d”0.05) increase in lymphocyte count in G3 (NPs) in compared with G2( traditional vaccine). Also there was a significant (p d”0.05) increase in heterophil count in G4 (NPs + 160µg peptide) as compared to control. For Ab titration ,at day 29 , data indicated significant ( p d”0.05) increase in G3 and G7 as compared to G2 while at day 42, there was a significant ( p d”0.05) increase in each of G3,G4,G5 and G6 groups in compared to control and traditional vaccine. For INF-ã level, G4 recorded significantly (p d”0.05) the highest level as compared to other groups. These immunological responses were explored in order to evaluate the prepared nanovaccine for IBD in broiler.

44 ref

006612   MELAKU M, URGE M, ANIMUT G (Animal Production and Technology Dep, Woldia Univ, Woldia, Ethiopia, Email: sefibahir2009@gmail.com) : Comparative evaluation of growth performance among broilers supplemented with synthetic lysine amino acid from 0-28 days. Agric Sci Dig 2019, 39(4), 341-6.

Different levels of synthetic lysine amino acid were supplemented to 240 starter broiler chicks randomly distributed to 12 groups of each 20-day chicks and allocated to four treatment diets in a Completely Randomized Design (CRD). T1 (Control) basal diet (0% synthetic lysine); T2 (0.15% synthetic lysine); T3 (0.3% synthetic lysine) and T4 (0.45% synthetic lysine). There was no significant difference (P>0.05) observed between treatments in dry matter, metabolizable energy, crude protein intake, body weight and death rate of the chicks. In conclusion, there were no significant changes for all parameters and further amino acid analysis of the feedstuffs is required and extra addition above 0.45% synthetic lysine of T4 need to be added in this experiment which numerically improved the chick’s performance. Further experiments were recommended to evaluate the levels of lysine amino acid in the feedstuffs and its inclusion level in to the diet of modern broiler strains.

36 ref

005261   GARCIA-FLORES L, SANTILLAN-BENITEZ J G, CUEVAS-YANEZ E, CABALLERO-VASQUEZ P, ZAMUDIO-CHAVEZ S, MORALES-AVILA E (Autonomous Univ of the State of Mexico, Toluca C.P.- 500 00, Mexico, Email: jonnathangsb@yahoo.com.mx) : Evaluation of the effect of 1,3-bis-(4-phenyl-[1,2,3] triazole-1-il)2- propanol in comparison with metronidazole in an in vitro culture of blastocystis in samples of patients with irritable bowel syndrome. J Parasit Dis 2019, 43(3), 506–12.

Metronidazole is the most-used pharmaceutical for the treatment of infection by Blastocystis. However, studies have reported resistance of the microorganism towards this pharmaceutical. In Mexico, studies concerning the prevalence of this parasite and its relationship to Irritable Bowel Syndrome have been carried out. To evaluate the in vitro effect of metronidazole and the compound 1,3- bis-(4-phenyl-[1,2,3] triazole-1-il)2-propanol over Blastocystis, as well as the prevalence of Blastocystis in patients with Irritable Bowel Syndrome. A prospective, transversal design study (April 2016–April 2017) of 51 samples of patients with Irritable Bowel Syndrome, obtained from the ISSEMyM Medical Center in Toluca, Mexico. For the identification of Blastocystis was done in three serial stool samples through direct microscopic examination and the Ritchie technique. The in vitro susceptibility test towards metronidazole and the triazolic compound was done through a microculture in concentrations of 1 to 1000 lg/ mL, each one in triplicate. A 31.3 % prevalence of Blastocystis was observed in the population, with greater prevalence in women (30.2 %) than in men (25 %). In the susceptibility test, a CL₅₀ of 64 lg/mL was obtained for metronidazole, in comparison to the CL₅₀ of 250 lg/mL for 1,3-bis-(4-phenyl-[1,2,3] triazole-1-il)2-propanol. This molecule in development has an effect for the treatment of infection by Blastocystis in vitro in patients with IBS and therefore, more studies should be performed.

1 illus, 3 tables, 42 ref

005229   ABDALHAMED A M, HASSANAIN M A, ZEEDAN G S G, SHAAPAN R M (Parasitology and Animal Diseases Dep, National Research Centre, Giza, Egypt, Email: gamilzee@yahoo.com) : Evaluation of Toxoplasma gondii propagated in specific pathogen free embryonated chicken egg, for diagnosis of toxoplasmosis in equids and human. J Parasit Dis 2019, 43(3), 498–505.

Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) is a worldwide distribution infects a wide variety of mammals, including humans. The present study aimed to detect the efficacy of soluble and whole T. gondii antigens propagated in specific pathogen-free of embryonated chicken egg (SPF-ECE) used to improve the potency of serological assays for diagnosis of toxoplasmosis in equids and human. Total of 220 serum samples from 170 equids (90 donkeys and 55 horses and 25 mules) and 50 humans were collected from different governorates in Egypt during the period from October 2017 to March 2018. Crude T. gondii tachyzoites antigens from low or high passages propagated in mice or SPF-ECE was used for modifying some serological tests. The experiment showed that the mortality rate of T. gondii for 103 and 104 low passages were 6/8 (75 %) and 7/8 (88 %) dead embryos but, lower mortality rate in high passage T. gondii were 4/8 (50 %) and 5/8 (63 %) dead embryos, respectively. No mortality or inflammatory signs were observed in control of negative groups. In equids sera were examined by S-ELISA using soluble T. gondii antigen propagated in SPF-ECE showed the highest positive results 26 (28.8 %), followed by LAT 37 (22 %) and MAGPT 36 (21.17 %). While, W-ELISA and IFAT used whole T. gondii antigen prepared in SPF-ECE were 35 (20.58 %) and 28 (19.41 %) showed highly positive results than the same test used the whole antigen prepared in mice. The highest seroprevalence of T. gondii in human and donkeys were 19/50 (38 %). and 26/90 (28.88 %), more than mules were 6/25 (24 %) and horses were 9/55 (16.3 %) examined by S-ELISA respectively. SPF-ECE is considered an appropriate experimental model for isolation and propagation of T. gondii tachyzoites, and their soluble antigens used in serological tests (S-ELISA, LAT, and MAGPT) have sensitivity and specificity more than the whole antigen and provided reliable diagnostic tools for detection of toxoplasmosis in human and equids.

2 illus, 3 tables, 33 ref

005316   ROSTAMKOLAIE L K, HAMIDINEJAT H, JALALI M H R, JAFARI H, VARZI H N, ABADSHAPOURI M R S (Pathobiology Dep, Shahid Chamran Univ, Ahvaz, Iran, Email: hamidinejat@yahoo.com) : In vitro therapeutic effect of Hemiscorpius lepturus venom on tachyzoites of Toxoplasma gondii. J Parasit Dis 2019, 43(3), 472–8.

Pyrimethamine which is a main anti-Toxoplasma gondii drug has a serious side and toxic effects on the host. Accordingly, the development of new treatment options for toxoplasmosis with less toxic effects, low teratogenicity and parasiticidal effect against the various stage of T. gondii are dramatically crucial. Currently, natural molecules from scorpion and snake venoms are widely used as an alternative treatment against human disease, these compounds considered to be safe and to have low toxicity in comparison with synthetic drugs. Therefore, the goal of our study was to investigate the anti-Toxoplasma gondii activities of Hemiscorpius lepturus venom. We measured cytotoxicity of H. lepturus whole venom on Vero cells as well as effectiveness of this compound on viability of T. gondii applying colorimetric assay, according to mitochondrial oxidation of the MTT reagent (Methylthiazol tetrazolium 98%). The results of this study indicated that the H. lepturus whole venom has an anti-Toxoplasma effects with less toxic effect on Vero cells. Also, the T. gondii tachyzoites were treated with H. lepturus venom reached better results in comparison with Pyrimethaminetreated group. This research will serve as a base for future studies on toxoplasmosis and suggest a role for scorpion venom in promoting natural drugs.

4 illus, 1 table, 37 ref

005311   RAJAPANDI T (Natural Sciences, Science and Technology Dep, Coppin State Univ, Baltimore, USA, Email: trajapandi@coppin.edu) : Upregulation of gametocytogenesis in anti-malarial drug-resistant Plasmodium falciparum. J Parasit Dis 2019, 43(3), 458–63.

The deadliest form of human malaria is primarily caused by the protozoan parasite Plasmodium falciparum. These parasites establish pathogenicity in the human host with a very low number of sexual forms or gametocytes, which are transmitted to the mosquitoes. Several studies have reported that exposing artemisininsensitive P. falciparum rings to a low concentration of dihydroartemisinin (DHA) results in dormancy, and the artemisinin-induced dormant (AID) forms are recovered into normal growth stages after 5–20 days. In this study, artemisinin-resistant P. falciparum parasites were tested for the development of AID forms and their recovery. Interestingly, it was found that exposure of an asynchronous culture of artemisinin-resistant P. falciparum IPC 5202 to DHA, a line carrying a mutation in the PfK13 gene that is linked to artemisinin resistance, also results in dormancy. Both the ring and some late stages of these AID forms recovered after 10–15 days. Furthermore, a high proportion of the recovered dormant forms developed into sexual forms or gametocytes after 3–4 weeks, which is almost a 7–8 times higher rate of conversion of asexual to sexual forms (gametocytes) or the malaria transmissible forms. In contrast, only early ring forms of artemisinin-sensitive parasites recovered slowly, and additional exposure of these parasites to artemisinin resulted in complete clearance within a week. This is in contrast to the resistant parasites exposed to a second dose of artemisinin, which resulted in a very high rate of dormancy and recovery into sexual forms or gametocytes.

2 illus, 1 table, 33 ref

005276   KAGE S, MAMATHA G S, LAKKUNDI J N, SHIVASHANKAR B P, D'SOUZA P E (Veterinary Parasitology Dep, Animal and Fisheries Sciences Univ, Karnataka- 560 024, Email: drmamathags@gmail.com) : Detection of incidence of Babesia spp. in sheep and goats by parasitological diagnostic techniques. J Parasit Dis 2019, 43(3), 452–7.

The present study was undertaken on epidemiology and diagnosis of babesiosis in sheep and goats in Bengaluru Urban and Rural districts of Karnataka state from November 2017 to May 2018. Out of 343 (225 sheep and 118 goats) blood smears examined by Giemsa and acridine orange (AO) fluorescent dye staining methods, 3.55 and 4.0 per cent of sheep and 0.84 and 1.69 per cent of goat samples were found positive for Babesia organisms, respectively. The sensitivity and specificity was found to be higher in AO fluorescent dye staining method. In agewise susceptibility, the percent positivity was found to be higher in animals [ 6 months old. In genderwise susceptibility, the percent positivity was found to be higher in females than males. Hence, AO fluorescent dye staining method is found to be very rapid and cost effective diagnostic method for treatment and control of babesiosis.

4 illus, 1 table, 37 ref

005302   PARIZI M H, PARDAKHTY A, SHARIFI I, FARAJZADEH S, PARIZI M H D, SHARIFI H, KEYHANI A R, MOSTAFAVI M, BAMOROVAT M, GHAFFARI D (Kerman Univ of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran, Email: abpardakhty@hotmail.com) : Antileishmanial activity and immune modulatory effects of benzoxonium chloride and its entrapped forms in niosome on Leishmania tropica. J Parasit Dis 2019, 43(3), 406–15.

Benzoxonium chloride is an anti-infective agent that is used as anti-septic drugs for disinfection of the mucus membrane, skin surface and anti-bacterial, and it is also found to be effective against cutaneous leishmaniasis. The present study aims to evaluate the leishmanicidal activity of benzoxonium chloride and niosomal forms against Leishmania tropica stages. Benzoxonium chloride niosomes were prepared by the thin film hydration method and evaluated for morphology, particle size and release study and encapsulation efficiency. This study measured the cytotoxicity, leishmanicidal activity against promastigote and intra macrophage amastigote, apoptosis, and mRNA transcripts by quantitative real time PCR (qPCR) of free solution and niosomal-encapsulated benzoxonium chloride. Span/Tween 60 niosomal formulation of benzoxonium chloride showed superior physical stability and high encapsulation efficiency (96 %) than the other forms. Release from the formulations showed that the Span/ Tween 60 containing drug had a milder gradient so that 10 % of the drug was not released after 4 h. The benzoxonium chloride and niosomal forms inhibited the in vitro growth of promastigote and amastigote forms of L. tropica after 48 h of incubation and represented IC₅₀ values of 90.7 ± 2.7 and 25.4 ± 0.6 lg/ mL, respectively. The rate of apoptosis in niosomal formulations was approximately equal to the positive control (meglumine antimoniate) at the same concentration. Also, an increase in the concentration of this drug reduced the expression of IL-10, but increased the expression of IL-12. The niosomal formulations provided improved anti-leishmanial activities of benzoxonium chloride and played an immunomodulatory role as the mode of action in the treatment of anthroponotic CL.

8 illus, 3 tables, 27 ref

005230   ABOELSOUED D, TOALEB N I, MEGEED K N A, HASSAN S E, IBRAHIM S (Parasitology and Animal Diseases Dep, National Research Centre, Cairo, Egypt, Email: Dr.Dina.Aboelsoued@gmail.com) : Cellular immune response and scanning electron microscopy in the evaluation of Moringa leaves aqueous extract effect on Cryptosporidium parvum in buffalo intestinal tissue explants. J Parasit Dis 2019, 43(3), 393–401.

Cryptosporidium is an apicomplexan parasite of human and animals and is considered as an important cofactor in neonatal diarrhea. In this study, an explant culture was used as an in vitro model of buffalo intestine to evaluate the effect of Moringa leaves extract on Cryptosporidium parvum (C. parvum) oocysts using light and scanning electron microscopy and measuring IFN-$\mathrm{\gamma }$, IL-12 and IL-14 in the culture supernatants. C. parvum oocysts were collected from naturally-infected calf feces, isolated, excysted and then co-inoculated with ileal tissue explants culture medium. The prepared Moringa leaves extract was then introduced to the infected tissues in the concentrations of 100 mg/ml and 300 mg/ml. After 24 h, tissues were collected and processed for light and scanning electron microscopy. Also, culture supernatants were collected for cytokines measurement. C. parvum parasitophorous vacuoles were found attached to the surface of tissue in Cryptosporidium-infected ileal tissue explants. High magnification imaging of ileal tissue explants using scanning electron microscopy showed that Moringa leaves extracts had a great effect on Cryptosporidium-infected ileal tissue explants. There was a high significant (P \0.001) increase in IFN-$\mathrm{\gamma }$, IL-12 and IL-14 (375, 275 and 90 pg/ml, respectively) in the supernatants of infected non-treated ileal tissue explant culture plate wells compared to the control non-infected ones (74.66, 75 and 50 pg/ml, respectively). A concentration of 100 mg/ml Moringa extract exhibited the highest anticryptosporidial effect causing a significant decrease in IFN-$\mathrm{\gamma }$, IL-12 and IL-14 levels (225, 150 and 65 pg/ml, respectively) compared with supernatants of infected non-treated ileal explant culture plate wells. In this study, explant culturing of buffalo ileal tissues allowed investigating the pathogenesis of cryptosporidiosis using light and scanning electron microscopy and studying changes in cytokine levels in tissues with and without Moringa leaves extract treatment. This model could help to understand the regulation of intestinal secretory and inflammatory responses, and could be useful for the screening of potential anticryptosporidial candidate compounds.

9 illus, 1 table, 50 ref

005241   BAHADORI E S, SADRAEI J, DALIMI A (Parasitology Dep, Tarbiat Modares Univ, Tehran, Iran, Email: sadraeij@modares.ac.ir) : New prevalence surveillance of Toxoplasma gondii among rodents and stray cats by ELISA avidity and nested PCR methods, Northeast of Iran. J Parasit Dis 2019, 43(3), 360–7.

Rodents and stray cats are the sources of many parasitic infections including T. gondii, for other animals and human. Toxoplasmosis has a wide range of laboratory factors in its intermediate and definite hosts. Regarding the importance of rodents and stray cats as the hosts that spread the Toxoplasma gondii, it is necessary to obtain comprehensive information about these animals in the life cycle of T. gondii. The objective was to investigate the new prevalence of toxoplasmosis among target animals in Iran, using GRA6 gene in combinacion with ELISA avidity. In this study, 286 rodents and 210 stray cats were collected and their heart tissues extracted to obtain DNA, blood samples and IgG Ab of T.gondii parasite. We detected the positive tissue samples in our study by the nested-PCR method. Then, we examined T. gondii IgG ELISA avidity for assessment of toxoplasmosis among rodents and stray cats. This study, was conducted in January to March 2017, based on the prevalence study. The findings revealed that 246/286 (86.01 %) of rodents and 180/210 (85.71 %) of stray cats were positive by IgG ELISA avidity methods. Moreover, 68 rodents samples and 38 stray cats samples were positive concerning the GRA6 Toxoplasma gene; and these positive samples were at intermediate levels for IgG avidity. We concluded that the new prevalence of toxoplasmosis among rodents and stray cats was at high levels, using the serologic method in Northeast of Iran and the results of quantitative ELISA avidity were as the same as those of the nested-PCR for detecting recent toxoplasmosis in these hosts.

3 illus, 5 tables, 34 ref

005257   ELDIN H M E, SARHAN R M, KHAYYAL A E (Ain Shams Univ, Cairo, Egypt, Email: raniasarhan99@gmail.com) : The impact of vinegar on pathogenic Acanthamoeba astronyxis isolate. J Parasit Dis 2019, 43(3), 351–9.

Acanthamoeba keratitis (AK) is a severe corneal disease that was reported by WHO as the second most common infectious cause of blindness after trachoma; contact lens wear is considered one of the main risk factors in its transmission. Thus, the treatment of AK is crucial but, the inability of medical agents to completely eradicate the resistant cyst, together with their toxic effects, suggest that new agents are needed. Vinegar has been known long ago as a simple and available disinfectant with antimicrobial effects, so the present study aimed to test the effect of different concentrations of vinegar solution on Acanthamoeba astronyxis isolate, along the period of 1 h in comparison to parasite and chlorhexidine controls. Post hoc test analysis revealed a highly significant difference between the vinegar-treated parasites and both controls, as regards the viable and non-viable mean cysts count. Vinegar concentration of 5 % exhibited the highest mean of non-viable cysts along the time intervals, while the lowest was shown with 0.04 % where also, no viable cysts were detected at 60 min. All tested concentrations behaved in a time-dependent manner. There was a positive correlation with a significant outcome between the different concentrations and the mean of the non-viable parasites along time. Transmission electron microscopy of treated cysts revealed corrugated altered cell wall with loss of ridges and detachment and shrinkage of content. Treated trophozoites showed flattening of the acanthopodia with thinned out plasma membrane and degenerated cytoplasmic content. The study highlighted the potential use of vinegar as an adjuvant in the prevention and treatment of AK.

5 illus, 2 tables, 45 ref

005338   TONOUHEWA A B N, AKPO Y, SHERASIYA A, SESSOU P, ADINCI J M, APLOGAN G L, YOUSSAO I, ASSOGBA M N, FAROUGOU S (Abomey-Calavi Univ, Cotonou, Benin, Email: tonouhewaaretas@gmail.com) : A serological survey of Toxoplasma gondii infection in sheep and goat from Benin, West-Africa. J Parasit Dis 2019, 43(3), 343–9.

Toxoplasma gondii is a parasitic protozoan, the etiological agent of toxoplasmosis, a worldwide zoonosis responsible for abortion and congenital malformation in animal and human. The present study reports, for the first time, the occurrence of T. gondii infection among sheep and goats from Benin. A total of 368 small ruminants: 215 serum samples from sheep raised in Sahelian area of North Benin and 153 serum samples from goats raised in a family farm from South-Benin, were collected and screened for anti-T. gondii IgG antibodies by the ELISA-indirect method. The results show the presence of anti-T. gondii IgG in 53 % (83/153) of goats and 1.4 % of sheep (3/215). Age, sex and breed did not seem to affect the frequency of this infection. Among goats, T. gondii infection was higher in animals reared in the coastal zone (Cotonou municipality) than those raised on the island (Allada municipality) [odds ratio (OR) = 4, 95 % confidence interval (CI) =1.07–15.002, p = 0.032, (X² ) test]. Humidity would be the determining factor in the disparity of recorded infection rates among sheep and goat. The high prevalence of caprine toxoplasmosis observed in southern Benin shows strong environmental contamination. Sensitization campaigns should therefore be undertaken by the public health authorities to inform the inhabitants of this area about risks and preventive measures of this zoonose.

1 illus, 2 tables, 34 ref

005335   TALKAD M S, D'SOUZA P, MARIMUTHU S (Natural Remedies Private Limited, Bengaluru, Karnataka) : Small intestinal gut-associated lymphoid tissue histomorphometry analysis in broilers supplemented with Stodi^®. J Med Plants Stud 2019, 7(5)-B, 135-40.

The present study was conducted with objective to evaluate the effect of Stodi^® on ileum and Meckel’s diverticulum gut-associated lymphoid tissue (GALT) proliferation by histomorphometry analysis. 960 one-day-old broiler chicks (Ross 308) were divided into four groups: normal control group, negative control group and two Stodi® treatment groups (500 g/ton and 750 g/ton). All the groups except normal control were challenged with MgCl₂.6H₂O to increase the cecal moisture content and subsequently to disturb the cecal microbiota. At day 42, samples were taken from different parts of small intestine (ileum and Meckel’s diverticulum) and fixed in 10 % buffered formaldehyde (pH 7.4). Sections of 4 μm thickness were made using microtome and stained by H&E. The results of the present study revealed that area of GALT (μm₂ ) was significantly (p<0.05) increased in the lamina propria of ileum and Meckel’s diverticulum in Stodi^® (750 g/ton) treated group as compared to negative control. The knowledge gained from this research study is that dietary supplementation of Stodi® at 750 g/ton of feed caused proliferation of morphology and associated immune structures of GALT in both ileum and Meckel’s diverticulum proving Stodi^® as a potential immunomodulatory candidate to enhances the performance traits in Ross 308 broiler chickens.

2 illus, 1 table, 33 ref

005317   SAEED A A, MABROUK A S, KASEM W T, AL-GIFRI A N (Biology Dep, Aden Univ, Aden, Yemen) : Macro and micromorphological properties of genus Tephrosia Pers. (Fabaceae) and their taxonomical significance, at Aden governorate, Yemen. J Med Plants Stud 2019, 7(5)-A, 39-44.

The morphological and anatomical characters of two wild Tephrosia species grown in Aden were investigated .The leaf; the shape, apex, margin, base, texture, size and venation of lamina were studied . The epidermal characters including the properties of epidermal cells (Shape, size & frequency), stomata properties (Type of stomata complex, size, frequency, index and ratio) stomata properties of (Adaxial & Abaxial) and type and size of trichomes and the anatomical characters (Thickness of Mesophyll and number of abaxial collenchyma layers in the midrib) and type of trichomes were determined. The stem and petiole characters and main midrib were investigated. The macro and micromorphological characters show a high significant in taxonomic value for the separation between the two studied Tephrosia species. They were 4 species in 1992 and in this study only 2 were found, that due to the human influence and heavily urban raise at every habitat in Aden.

8 illus, 2 tables, 20 ref

005274   JANNAT K, JAHAN R, FARZANA B-N, RAHMATULLAH M (Biotechnology & Genetic Engineering Dep, Development Alternative Univ, Dhaka, Bangladesh) : Some herbal remedies for treatment of humans and cattle in Jamalpur district, Bangladesh. J Med Plants Stud 2019, 7(5)-A, 4-6.

Even following the advent of allopathic medicine, folk medicine still plays an important role in the health-care of humans and animals in Bangladesh. Folk medicine is often called herbal medicine, because the practitioners mainly rely on phytotherapeutic treatments. The present study documents the use of three formulations to treat three human and one cattle disease by a folk herbalist in Jamalpur district, Bangladesh. The human diseases treated were leucorrhea, chronic dysentery, and hemorrhoids (piles), while the cattle disease treated was swelling of cow’s udder. Various aspects of the treatments including scientific validations, if any, are discussed

1 table, 39 ref

005262   GEISER D L, THAI T N, LOVE M B, WINZERLING J J (Nutritional Sciences Dep, Arizona Univ, Arizona, Tucson, Email: dlgeiser@email.arizona.edu) : Iron and ferritin deposition in the ovarian tissues of the yellow fever mosquito (Diptera: Culicidae). J Insect Sci 2019, 19(5), 89.

Dengue, yellow fever, and Zika are viruses transmitted by the yellow fever mosquito, Aedes aegypti [Linnaeus (Diptera: Culicidae)], to thousands of people each year. Mosquitoes transmit these viruses while consuming a blood meal that is required for oogenesis. Iron, an essential nutrient from the blood meal, is required for egg development. Mosquitoes receive a high iron load in the meal; although iron can be toxic, these animals have developed mechanisms for dealing with this load. Our previous research has shown iron from the blood meal is absorbed in the gut and transported by ferritin, the main iron transport and storage protein, to the ovaries. We now report the distribution of iron and ferritin in ovarian tissues before blood-feeding and 24 and 72 h post-blood meal. Ovarian iron is observed in specific locations. Timing post-blood feeding influences the location and distribution of the ferritin heavy-chain homolog, light-chain homolog 1, and light-chain homolog 2 in ovaries. Understanding iron deposition in ovarian tissues is important to the potential use of interference in iron metabolism as a vector control strategy for reducing mosquito fecundity, decreasing mosquito populations, and thereby reducing transmission rates of vector-borne diseases.

4 illus, 68 ref

005246   BULBULE A M, MANDROLI P S, BHAT K G, BOGAR C M (Pedodontics and Preventive Dentistry Dep, Maratha Mandal’s NGH Institute of Dental Sciences and Research Center, Belagavi, Karnataka, Email: pedopravin@rediffmail.com) : In vitro evaluation of cytotoxicity of Emblica officinalis (Amla) on cultured human primary dental pulp fibroblasts. J Indian Soc Pedod Prev Dent 2019, 37(3), 251-7.

The dental pulp tissue is capable of healing after surgical amputation of infected/inflamed tissue during vital pulp therapy, when in contact with a suitable medicament. Emblica officinalis (amla), a traditional medicine, is one such medicament which has never been evaluated for its healing potential in pulp therapy. The aim of the study was to evaluate the cytotoxicity of E. officinalis (amla) against human primary dental pulp fibroblasts. This was in vitro study. Human dental pulp fibroblasts were obtained from dental pulp tissue of extracted over‑retained primary incisors. The primary cells were cultured using the Dulbecco’s Modified Eagle’s Medium and used for the study after the fourth passage. The test medicament was E. officinalis with mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) (100%) and untreated cells as positive and negative controls, respectively. Methylthiazol-diphenyl-tetrazolium (MTT) cytotoxicity assay was performed, and the cell survival was observed and analyzed at intervals of 24, 48, and 72 h. Cell survival within groups was compared with Wilcoxon matched‑paired t‑test and in between groups at each point interval was analyzed with the Kruskal–Wallis ANOVA test. The level of significance was set at 0.05. Within the groups, across the time periods of evaluation, there was a decline in cell survival in both the groups but was statistically significant in the MTA group. On interval‑wise comparison, the decline in cell survival was statistically significant between the three groups at 72 h (P = 0.001). E. officinalis preserved the vitality of the human primary dental pulp fibroblasts and has the potential to be developed into vital pulp therapy medicament.

6 illus, 3 tables, 19 ref