004098   EZEH I O, UGWO N E, OBI C F, ENEMUO V O, OKPALA M I, EZEOKONKWO R (Veterinary Parasitology and Entomology Dep, Nigeria Univ, Nsukka, Nigeria) : Reduced fasting blood glucose levels following relapse in diminazene aceturate (Dinazene®) treated Trypanosoma brucei infected albino rats. J Parasit Dis 2019, 43(2), 329-32.

The blood glucose levels of rats were assessed following experimental Trypanosoma brucei infection and diminazene aceturate treatment. Ten adult female albino rats were randomly assigned into two groups of five rats each. Group A were infected with 10⁶ trypanosomes while group B served as the uninfected control group. Group A rats were treated with 7 mg/kg Dinazene^® (diminazene aceturate) at the peak of parasitaemia. Blood glucose level was assayed weekly while parasitaemia level was assessed daily. The blood glucose levels of the infected rats did not vary significantly (P > 0.05) from that of control group except following relapse when the values became significantly (P < 0.05) low. The implications of blood glucose reduction following relapse infection in rats is therefore highlighted and discussed.

2 illus, 17 ref

004107   GIADINIS N D, ABD- EL-TAWAB M M, YOUSSEF I M I, BAKR H A, PAPADOPOULOS E (Aristotle Univ of Thessaloniki, Thessaloníki, Greece) : Effect of experimental nematode infection on serum mineral concentrations in growing lambs. J Parasit Dis 2019, 43(2), 324-8.

The objective of the present study was to determine the possible effect of gastrointestinal nematodes upon serum mineral concentrations of lambs. Twelve male lambs were used. Lambs were randomly assigned to 2 groups (n = 6): Group 1 infected with gastrointestinal nematodes and Group 2 as controls. Lambs of Group 1 were infected with a single dose of 15,000 L₃ larvae of GI nematodes (Haemonchus, Teladorsagia, Trichostrongylus, Cooperia and Oesophagostomum–Bunostomum). Blood samples were collected from the investigated animals individually every 2 weeks. However, the differences in serum macro-minerals (Ca, Mg, P, K, and Na) among groups were not significant. Although the differences in serum macro-minerals among groups were not significant and the iron serum concentration remained unaltered, the gastrointestinal parasitism reduced significantly/substantially the serum copper levels.

2 tables, 26 ref

004074   AHMED M M, HABIB F S M, SAAD G A, NAGGAR H M E (Parasitology Dep, Ain Shams Univ, Cairo, Egypt) : Surface ultrastructure, protein profile and zymography of Blastocystis species isolated from patients with colorectal carcinoma. J Parasit Dis 2019, 43(2), 249-303.

Oncogenic potential of Blastocystis species have been predicted on reporting the enhanced proliferation of human colorectal cancer cells by the parasite solubilized antigen in vitro, and the enhanced drug-induced carcinogenesis by infection in vivo. The present study is the first to investigate some phenotypic characters, namely the surface ultrastructure, protein profiles and protease activity of Blastocystis sp. isolated from three different clinical groups: colorectal carcinoma (CRC) patients, symptomatic and asymptomatic infected persons. Under SEM, all CRC Blastocystis sp. isolates had a very rough intensely folded surface in comparison to the less rough and completely smooth surface of all symptomatic and asymptomatic Blastocystis sp. Non-CRC isolates, respectively. Under reducing conditions, the sodium dodecyl sulfate–polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis had shown a significant presence of 2 protein bands of 230 and 32 KDa in 42.9% of Blastocystis sp. CRC isolates with their complete absence from Non-CRC isolates. While using non-reducing condition with the incorporation of gelatin in the gel to study the protease activity of the parasite, no significant difference existed between isolates of the three groups. In conclusion, the significant difference in surface ultrastructure and in protein profiles exists between Blastocystis sp. of CRC and Non-CRC isolates. These differences might be either secondary to the altered gut environment in the presence of CRC or are indicators of a different pathogenic potential of the parasite isolates inducing malignancy.

3 illus, 3 tables, 51 ref

004110   GYASI S F, BOATENG A A, AWUAH E, ANTWI E O (Basic and Applied Biology Dep, Energy and Natural Resources Univ, Sunyani, Ghana) : Ellucidating the incidence and the prevalence of Schistosomiasis spp infection in riparian communities of the Bui dam. J Parasit Dis 2019, 43(2), 276-88.

The flow rate of rivers are affected when modifications are made for the benefit of mankind. Some man-made alterations carried out include dam construction. The aim of this study was to investigate the health impact of the Bui dam with respect to the prevalence and awareness level of schistosomiasis in a typical damming environment. The study was conducted in 4 riparian communities within the dam catchment area. A cross-sectional study design was employed to interview 350 individuals. Urine and stool samples were also collected from 386 participants. Results of the study showed that, knowledge of schistosomiasis was significantly greater in close communities (99.47%) than their far counterparts (50.29%) (p > 0.001; OR = 172). Schistosomiasis infection rate in the close communities (32.57%) were significantly greater in far communities (7.23%; p ≤ 0.0001). The overall prevalence of 82 (21.1%) was recorded for Schistosoma haematobium and 64 (16.1%) for Schistosoma mansoni. A significantly high prevalence of S. haematobium (43.3%) was found in the age group 15–24 with no prevalence reported for age group 5–9 (Close communities) (p = 0.012). When the same age group was further examined for S. mansonii, group 5–9 recorded a prevalence of 0% with age group 10–14 showing a high prevalence of 26.1% (p = 0.047). From the study, it was concluded that, though awareness level of Schistosomiasis knowledge on the cause, mode of transmission and symptoms were high, they were ignorant on personal preventive strategies. In addition, the study also revealed that, S. haematobium was more prevalent among inhabitants living closer to the Bui dam with children less than 14 years of age being the worst affected.

1 illus, 13 tables, 38 ref

004134   MAGHSOODLOORAD S, MAGHSOODLOORAD E, KARESHK A T, MOTAZEDIAN M H, YUSUF M A, SOLGI R (Birjand Univ of Medical Sciences, Birjand, Iran, Email: rahmatsolgi@yahoo.com) : Thermotolerant Acanthamoeba spp. isolated from recreational water in Gorgan City, north of Iran. J Parasit Dis 2019, 43(2), 240-5.

Acanthamoeba as free-living parasites are scattered ubiquitously, throughout the world. This study was aimed to evaluate the presence of Acanthamoeba spp. genotypes in the recreational water sources in Gorgan County, the capital of Golestan Province using both morphological and molecular approaches. Thirty water samples were collected from different recreational waters in Gorgan, the capital of Golestan Province, northern Iran during 2015–2016. Samples were filtered and followed by culture in non-nutrient agar. Acanthamoeba were identified both by morphological and molecular analysis. The pathogenical potential of positive cloned samples were also determined using tolerance test. Twenty-six percent of recreational water were identified as Acanthamoeba spp. based on the morphological analysis and from these positive samples, five samples were successfully sequenced after molecular studies. Phylogenetic analysis showed the clustering of four samples in T4 genotype group and only one sample as T15 genotype. Thermotolerance test revealed that all cloned samples were highly positive. Since the attractiveness of recreational places for people is increasing, the potential risk of this water should be monitored routinely in each region. More studies are needed to better evaluate the risk of this ubiquitous parasite for the human.

4 illus, 1 table, 23 ref

004078   AL-ABODI H R J (Environment Dep, Al-Qadisiyah Univ, Al Diwaniyah, Iraq, Email: Hiba.Al-abodi@qu.edu.iq) : Use of immunological methods to the detection of toxoplasmosis and heat shock protein HSP70 in men. J Parasit Dis 2019, 43(2), 234-9.

Toxoplasmosis is a contagious infection caused by the parasite Toxoplasma gondii, affecting many different body organs, and its effect varies depending on the location of the infection and the condition of the host’s immune system, this study was the first experiment in Al-Qadisiyah governorate to detect toxoplasmosis and thermal shock protein in males. 200 male students between the ages of 18–23 years at University of Al-Qadisiyah were persuaded to perform the examination, the immunological method ELISA showed to presence of T. gondii in 39/200 (19.5%), (10%) positive IgG antibodies and (6%) positive for IgM, statistical analysis indicates that there are significant differences between antibody presence rates between control and infection group, due to the inaccuracy of serological tests in some cases due to the reliance on the presence of antibodies, the present study used molecular methods to examine the samples again as a step to confirmation and to reach the most accurate results, depending on the gene B1 special for the parasite by using real-time PCR technique, and the results indicated a positive proportion was 15/200 (7.5%) as modern infection, the study also assessed the level of the heat shock protein HPS70 in the positive samples of infection and showed a high concentration of HPS70 in the blood samples for infected males (28.21) ng/ml compared with control group (6.96) ng/ml, statistical analysis showed significant differences between them.

1 illus, 3 tables, 32 ref

004071   ABO-AZIZA F A M, MAHMOUD M H, MEGEED K N A, EZZ N M T A E, ABU-SALEM F M (Parasitology and Animal Diseases Dep, National Research Centre, Cairo, Egypt, Email: Dr.Dina.Aboelsoued@gmail.com) : Anticryptosporidial effect of pomegranate peels water extract in experimentally infected mice with special reference to some biochemical parameters and antioxidant activity. J Parasit Dis 2019, 43(2), 215-28.

Cryptosporidiosis is a zoonotic disease caused by a well-known parasitic protozoan called Cryptosporidium. Infection in livestock causes important economic losses among farm animals and its control has a global concern. In this study, internal white and external red layers were separated from pomegranate peels (Punica granatum) then; they were grinded to reach Nano form. Anticryptosporidial effect of their water extracts was investigated in experimentally infected mice. Also, their antioxidant activity, biochemical and histopathological changes were studied. Briefly, hot aqueous extracts of pomegranate peels were prepared regarding its good sensory attributes at concentration of 10% W/V. Analysis of total phenolics, individual phenolics by HPLC-DAD and antioxidant activities have been done. Forty-five mice were divided into five groups each one containing nine mice. The first group was healthy mice and the 2nd one was infected orally with 10⁴ Cryptosporidium parvum (C. parvum) oocysts/mice and not treated. The other 3 groups were infected and orally treated with Nitazoxanide (NTZ) for the 3rd group, pomegranate red peel extract for the 4th group and pomegranate white peel extract for the 5th group. Blood samples were collected after 1 and 2 weeks post treatment for protein profile, liver enzymes and antioxidant activity evaluation. After 3 weeks, all animals were sacrificed and ileal tissues were embedded in paraffin for histopathological examination. The results showed that pomegranate peel extracts were rich in phenolic compounds, had high antioxidant activity and therapeutic effect on C. parvum in experimentally infected mice. Red peel extract diminished C. parvum oocysts count significantly in experimentally infected mice than white peel and NTZ treatments. Also, the histopathological examination revealed that red peel treated mice ileal sections showed a great enhancement in the shape and structure of villi towards normal structure than other treated groups. Most of the measured biochemical parameters after 2 weeks’ treatment with red pomegranate peel and NTZ were enhanced in their concentrations towards the healthy normal status. In conclusion, this study showed the effectiveness of Nano-form of pomegranate white and red peel extracts against C. parvum oocysts. Pomegranate red peel extract was found to have antioxidant activity that could significantly enhance the serum biochemical parameters and oxidative stress towards the healthy normal status. Furthermore, it is suggested that pomegranate peel should be separated and used in the daily animal diet or as a functional beavarage for human as accepted from the panelists to give protective effects against this parasite as well as to improve health benefits.

8 illus, 7 tables, 64 ref

004082   AMAHMID O, GUAMRI Y E, ZENJARI K, BOUHOUT S, MOH M A, BORRAM F, MELLOUL A A, BENFAIDA H, BOUHOUM K, BELGHYTI D (Life and Earth Sciences Dep, Regional Centre for Careers of Education and Training, Marrakesh, Morocco, Email: amahmid1969@gmail.com) : The pattern of cystic echinococcosis in children in an endemic area in Morocco. J Parasit Dis 2019, 43(2), 209-14.

Cystic echinococcosis is a parasitic infection of major public health concern. The infection is generally acquired during childhood and the disease incubation period can last many years. The occurrence and characteristics of the disease in children were not well studied. The present study aimed to explore the pattern and features of cystic echinococcosis in children in rural and urban environments in Morocco. A total of 338 children diagnosed and treated for cystic echinococcosis were investigated. The trend of the infection, risk and exposure factors and the distribution of the anatomic locations of cysts were studied. A non-uniform decrease in proportions of infected children was found. Children from rural environs had significantly higher infection rates than children from urban environs (p < 0.001). Males were significantly more infected than females. Children aged 7–11 years were the most affected. For cysts locations, single organ involvement was found in 94.4% of the children versus 5.6% with multi-organ localization. Despite control program, active transmission of echinococcosis still occurred in children and remains a major public health problem. The infection in younger population may have some features that need to be considered in the prevention and control programs in endemic areas.

1 illus, 2 tables, 37 ref

004176   SOLTANI S, FOROUTAN M, HEZARIAN M, AFSHARI H, KAHVAZ M S (Parasitology Dep, Tarbiat Modares Univ, Tehran, Iran, Email: masoud_foroutan_rad@yahoo.com) : Cutaneous leishmaniasis: An epidemiological study in southwest of Iran. J Parasit Dis 2019, 43(2), 190-7.

The current study was aimed to evaluate the frequency and epidemiological aspects of cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) in the southwest of Iran, an endemic focus for the leishmaniasis from 2014 to 2017. In the present retrospective cross-sectional study, all suspicious CL persons who were referred to health centers affiliated to Abadan School of Medical Sciences (Abadan and Khorramshahr cities) were tested. In this regard, both clinical and parasitological (staining with Giemsa) verifications were performed to diagnose a case. Furthermore, a structured questionnaire containing some demographic details was applied for each positive patient. In total, 151 and 132 positive CL cases were identified in Abadan and Khorramshahr cities, respectively. More frequency of CL was observed during the Winter season, among male subjects, and in urban inhabitants in both cities. The incidence of CL based on age distribution was higher in the age range of 20–30 years than others. Besides, the hands and feet were the most involved organs. Although the frequency of CL has declined in the region, CL is still a public health problem. More appropriate control strategies are required to limit and eliminate the infection in the future.

2 illus, 2 tables, 37 ref

004170   SAMADI A, ISIKHAN S Y, ANSARI M H K, SAMADI M, SABUNCUOGLU S (Medical Biochemistry Dep, Hacettepe Univ, Ankara, Turkey, Email: samadi.afshin84@yahoo.com) : Effects of clozapine and haloperidol treatment on plasma concentrations of androgen hormones and androgendependent organ changes in rats. Indian J Pharmacol 2019, 51(4), 269-75.

Metabolic and endocrine adverse effects are among the most concerning unfavorable consequences of commonly used psychotropic drugs. The present research was planned to assess and determine the effects of haloperidol and clozapine on testosterone, cortisol, and corticosterone levels and also their influence on androgen‑dependent organs in adult male Wistar rats. Animals were casually distributed into three groups (n = 10 in each group). Drugs were administered intraperitoneally for 28 days. The control group received 2 mL of physiological saline, the second group received haloperidol (0.5 mg/kg), and the third group received clozapine (0.5 mg/kg). The subsequent testosterone, cortisol, and corticosterone plasma concentration levels were analyzed with chemiluminescent immunoassay. Clozapine and haloperidol treatments altered testosterone hormone levels. Testosterone mean values in both the clozapine (1.00–0.58) and haloperidol (0.65–0.62) groups were found to be lower than compared to controls (P = 0.003, P < 0.001). Histomorphometric analysis results also showed reduced testes size and reduced weight of androgen‑dependent organs in drug‑treated rats. It can be suggested that clozapine and haloperidol are effective in reducing the testosterone plasma concentration level and androgen‑dependent organ sizes; therefore, clinicians should be aware of these effects when considering the use of antipsychotic drugs.

4 illus, 2 tables, 28 ref

004180   TANG C-Y, TANG S-L, HUANG K-F, XU J, YU H, LIN L (Respiratory Dep, Guangdong Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, 510120, China, Email: drlinlin620@163.com) : Jian‑Pi‑Yi‑Fei granule suppresses airway inflammation in mice induced by cigarette smoke condensate and lipopolysaccharide. Indian J Pharmacol 2019, 51(4), 263-8.

As a chronic, progressive, and lethal pulmonary disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is lacking effective treatment. Chronic inflammatory processes, including inflammatory cytokines, play an important role with in its pathogenesis. Jianpiyifei (JPYF) granule is a traditional Chinese herbal formula historically used to strengthen the spleen and tonify the lung. JPYF is used clinically to treat stable COPD. However, whether the purported anti‑inflammatory effect of JPYF in COPD involves regulation of key inflammatory cytokines is not clear. The mice model of pulmonary inflammation was induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and cigarette smoke condensate (CSC). The influence of JPYF on airway inflammation in vivo was investigated. Mice were divided into three groups: control, model, and treatment groups. In the CSC + LPS model group and JPYF treatment group, intratracheal injection of CSC and LPS was used to induce airway inflammation for 5 days. JPYF group animals were also orally administered 5.5 g/kg JPYF granule for 12 days. The number of neutrophils and total cells in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid of the JPYF group were markedly lower than in the model group. The levels of interleukin (IL)‑1 β and IL‑6 were lower; tumor necrosis factor‑alpha was downregulated, and IL‑10 was higher in the JPYF group than the model group. In the JPYF group, histone deacetylase 2 (HDAC2) activity and protein expression were restored. The anti‑inflammatory activity of JPYF involves the suppression of pro‑inflammatory cytokines, enhanced IL‑10 secretion, and the restoration of HDAC2 activity.

5 illus, 1 table, 22 ref

004173   SINGH P, AGRAWAL S, MISHRA M, RAJORIYA V, KASHAW S K (Pharmaceutical Sciences Dep, Dr. Harisingh Gour Univ, Sagar - 470 003, Email: sushilkashaw@gmail.com) : kNN-MFA-guided 3D-QSAR on some PDE4 inhibitors of benzylamine derivatives for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Indian J Pharm Sci 2019, 81(4), 790-6.

Benzylamine derivatives have recently been demonstrated interesting potential as the treatment for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease via interaction with the PDE4 enzymes. To understand the necessity around the nucleus k-nearest-neighbour molecular field analysis-based 3D-QSAR analysis was performed on a series of 47 compounds. The 3D-QSAR studies were performed using stepwise variable selection k-nearestneighbour molecular field analysis approach; a leave-one-out cross-validated correlation coefficient (q² ) of 0.8805 and a predicted r² for the external test (pred_r² ) of 0.6677 were obtained. Points generated in k-nearest-neighbour molecular field analysis 3D-QSAR model were S_1789 (-0.0023, -0.0021), E_14 (0.0271, 0.03699). Results showed positive range indicating that positive electrostatic potential is favourable for increase in the activity and hence a less electronegative substituent group is preferred in lattice point 14 (around R₁ ). Negative range indicates that negative steric potential is favourable for increase in the activity and hence less bulky substituent group is preferred at lattice point. The information rendered by 3D-QSAR models lead to a better understanding of structural requirements for PDE4 inhibitors and help in the design of novel potent molecules.

5 illus, 2 tables, 17 ref

004182   TSAI F M, WANG L K, CHEN M L, LEE M C, LIN Y Y, WANG C H (Dermatology Dep, The Buddhist Tzuchi Medical Foundation, New Taipei City 231, Taiwan, Email: dermawang@gmail.com) : Induction of cell proliferation and cell death in human follicle dermal papilla cells by zinc chloride. Indian J Pharm Sci 2019, 81(4), 781-5.

In the present investigation, the effects of zinc on the growth of human follicle dermal papilla cells were determined. A higher dose of zinc was found to significantly increase the proliferation of human follicle dermal papilla cells and the expression levels of cell cycle regulatory proteins. However, cell death, an increase in the apoptotic protein Bax, and caspase-3 activation were also observed in zinc-treated human follicle dermal papilla cells. The results from our present study suggest that the regulation of human follicle dermal papilla cells proliferation or death by zinc might be directly involved in hair regrowth in a narrow dose range.

4 illus, 12 ref

004177   SWDER M J, ZAKROCKA I, MUNIR E, SWIADER K (Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology Dep, Medical Univ, 20-090 Lublin, Jaczewskiego 8B, Poland, Email: mariusz.swiader@umlub.pl) : Influence of cimetidine in combination with antiepileptic drugs on locomotor activity in mice. Indian J Pharm Sci 2019, 81(4), 776-81.

The goal of the present study was to examine the effect of cimetidine, a histamine type 2 receptor antagonist given alone or together with one of the conventional antiepileptic drugs, carbamazepine, phenytoin, phenobarbital or valproate on the exploratory and spontaneous activity in mice after 1 or 7 days of experiment. Animal activity was registered electronically with the use of Digiscan analyser in relation to ambulatory and rearing activities, as well as total distance travelled by animals in 15 minute periods. Results showed that cimetidine given alone significantly decreased three variables of spontaneous motor activity (horizontal activity, total distance and vertical activity) in mice after single administration. Moreover, cimetidine co-administered with valproate (1 or 7 days), carbamazepine (1 day), phenytoin (1 day) or phenobarbital (7 days) significantly worsened spontaneous activity in mice. Likewise, impairment in horizontal and vertical explorative activity in mice was observed when cimetidine was injected with phenobarbital (1 day), carbamazepine (1 day), valproate (1 or 7 days) and phenytoin (1 day). It could be concluded that cimetidine has deleterious effect on locomotor activity of mice, especially in combination with the antiepileptic agents tested. Further studies are needed to elucidate the influence of cimetidine on patients with epilepsy.

4 tables, 15 ref

004193   ZENG D, HE S, LI J Y, ZHANG R, WANG D X, LI H F, SHEN Y F (Psychiatry Dep, Shanghai Jiao Tong Univ School of Medicine, Shanghai, PR China, Email: shenyifeng@yahoo.com) : Brain-derived neurotrophic factor’s Val66Met and C270T polymorphisms influence citalopram/ escitalopram response in Chinese patients with major depressive disorder. Indian J Pharm Sci 2019, 81(4), 690-8.

The aim of this study was to investigate the association between two brain-derived neurotrophic factor polymorphisms (Val66Met and C270T) and response to citalopram/escitalopram treatment. Chinese patients who met diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders criteria for major depressive disorder (n=180) were prescribed citalopram/escitalopram for 6 weeks. Depression severity was evaluated using the 17-item Hamilton rating scale for depression at baseline and week 2, 4, and 6 of treatment. The expression quantitative trait loci analysis was performed to investigate the functional effect of Val66Met and C270T on brain-derived neurotrophic factor expression in the brain and blood. A significant difference was found in genotype (χ² =6.979, p=0.031, correction p=0.062) but not allele (p>0.05) frequencies of Val66Met between responders and non-responders. Homozygous GG showed a higher response than other two genotypes (χ² =5.218, p=0.022, correction p=0.044). In addition, the C allele and CC genotype of C270T were significantly related to higher remission over 6 weeks among females (C/T, p=0.027, correction p=0.054; CC/TT, p=0.023, correction p=0.046) and first-episode major depressive disorder patients (C/T, p=0.023, correction p=0.046; CC/TT, χ² = 6.870, p=0.009, correction p=0.018). Further expression quantitative trait loci analysis showed that Val66Met and C270T have functional effect on brain-derived neurotrophic factor expression in the brain. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor Val66Met and C270T polymorphisms were associated with therapeutic response to citalopram/escitalopram in Chinese major depressive disorder patients.

2 illus, 3 tables, 40 ref

004165   ROOZI H, BOJAR M N A, EIDI V, ALI K N R (Biochemistry Dep, Kharazmi Univ, Tehran, Iran, Email: mboojar@yahoo.com) : Effects of Oleracein E and Oleracein L from Portulaca oleracea on cell survival, antioxidant and antidiabetic efficacy on β-TC-6 pancreatic cell line. Indian J Pharm Sci 2019, 81(4), 681-9.

Oleracein E and oleracein L are the major bioactive isoquinoline alkaloids in Portulaca oleracea. Here, the effects of these alkaloids on cell survival, the activity of superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione peroxidase, factors associated with oxidative stress such as malondialdehyde and dityrosine, carbohydratehydrolyzing enzymes α-amylase and α-glucosidase, insulin secretion levels and glucose uptake ability were investigated. The β-TC-6 pancreatic cell line was incubated with oleracein E and L at concentrations of 0, 50, 100, 200 and 400 µM and tested separately. All biological assays were based on UV/Vis spectrophotometric and/or high performance liquid chromatography methods. Oleracein E and L at 100 μM concentrations increased antioxidant activity of enzymes. In addition, the total oxidative damage biomarkers ablated significantly in 50 and 100 μM concentrations, which could be due to the positive effect of antioxidant enzymes on biomarker level. Similar inhibition properties were shown by α-amylase and α-glucosidase and consequently, the investigated alkaloids could exhibit the high hypoglycemic effect. Furthermore, glucose uptake and insulin secretion were enhanced by these compounds. Hence, these alkaloids have considerable antioxidant and potential hypoglycemic effects on the pancreatic cell line and they could be suggested for future studies in the treatment of diabetes mellitus.

5 illus, 52 ref

004163   RAO S P, KRISHNAMURTHY V (Biochemistry Dep, Bharathi Women’s Coll, Chennai - 600 108, Email: viji42research@yahoo.co.in) : Ethanol extract of Punica granatum L. leaf in combination with gallic acid ameliorates liver dysfunction in high-fat diet-induced obese rats. Indian J Pharm Sci 2019, 81(4), 673-80.

The present study was designed to evaluate the hepatoprotective activity of ethanol extract of Punica granatum L. leaf in association with gallic acid in high-fat diet-induced animal model. Total 30 rats were used. These were divided into 5 groups of 6 animals each. Group 1 was given normal diet and was treated as the control. Group 2 was given a high-fat diet and was considered as induced group. Groups 3, 4 and 5 were given high-fat diet along with ethanol extract of Punica granatum L. leaf (200 mg/kg), ethanol extract of Punica granatum L. leaf+gallic acid (100+10 mg/kg) and orlistat (22 mg/kg), which constituted the treatment groups. The total period of the study was 8 w. At the end of the study, activities of alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, total protein, albumin, globulin and albumin/globulin ratio were measured. The antioxidant defence activities like superoxide dismutase, catalase and reduced glutathione were analysed together with lipid peroxidation in the liver tissue. In addition, histology of liver was examined. The high-fat diet caused alternation in the activities of markers of liver function along with changes in histology of the liver. The high-fat diet increased lipid peroxidation and decreased antioxidant defence system. The alterations induced by the high-fat diet were restored more effectively by the ethanol extract of Punica granatum L. leaf+gallic acid than the ethanol extract of Punica granatum L. leaf alone or orlistat.

1 illus, 2 tables, 52 ref

004114   IBRAHIM T, EL-HELA A A, DAWOUD G T M, ZHRAN M (Pharmacognosy Dep, Cairo Univ, Cairo, Egypt, Email: tshehata@ksu.edu.sa) : Antimethicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus and biological activities of metabolites from Digitaria sanguinalis L.. Indian J Pharm Sci 2019, 81(4), 651-60.

The present research was aimed to evaluate the antimicrobial, antimethicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, antiviral and cytotoxic activities of active fractions of the alcohol extract and seven isolated compounds from the aerial parts of Digitaria sanguinalis. Bioassay-guided fractionation of the ethanol extract of the aerial parts of Digitaria sanguinalis L. (Poaceae) followed by several chromatographic purification steps resulted in the isolation of seven compounds. Structural elucidation of isolated compounds was achieved on the basis of spectroscopic analysis (ultraviolet, infrared, ¹H and ¹3C nuclear magnetic resonance and mass spectra). Antimicrobial, antimethicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, antiviral and cytotoxic activities were determined for the n-hexane, ethyl acetate, n-butanol fractions of the ethanol extract, in addition to the isolated compounds. Seven compounds were isolated, p-coumaric acid (1) tricin (2), p-hydroxybenzoic acid (3), stigmasterol (4), β-sitosterol-3-O-β-D-glucoside (5), tricin-7-O-β-D-glucopyranoside (6) and isoorientin (7). The results revealed that most of the isolated compounds exhibited marked antimicrobial, antiviral and cytotoxic activities, while compounds 1, 2, 5 and 6 showed a significant activity against methicillinresistant Staphylococcus aureus. This study revealed that several fractions and isolated compounds from Digitaria sanguinalis appear to be potential new therapeutic agents, due to their significant antimicrobial, antimethicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, antiviral and cytotoxic activities.

1 illus, 3 tables, 53 ref

004192   WOLSKA K, GÓRSKA A, ANTOSIK K, LUGOWSKA K (Dietetics and Food Assessment Dep, Natural Sciences and Humanities Univ, Prusa 14, 08-110 Siedlce, Poland, Email: kwolska@uph.edu.pl) : Immunomodulatory effects of propolis and its components on basic immune cell functions. Indian J Pharm Sci 2019, 81(4), 575-88.

Propolis (bee glue) is a resinous hive product collected by honey bees from many plant sources in temperate and tropical climates. It’s fairly complex chemical composition includes polyphenols, phenolic aldehydes, sequiterpenes, quinins, coumarins, amino acids, steroids and inorganic compounds. The contents of propolis depended especially on its location and plant sources. Consequently, the biological activity of propolis gathered from different phytogeographical areas can vary. Propolis is known to have a broad spectrum of biological properties, including antimicrobial, antioxidant, antiinflammatory, antiallergic, dermatoprotective, laxative, antidiabetic, antitumor and immunomodulatory activity. The immunomodulatory activity of propolis has been well-researched. This activity is attributed to flavonoids and some phenolic acids, mainly caffeic acid (cinnamic acid) phenethyl esters and artepillin C (3,5-diprenyl-4-hydroxycinnamic acid). Propolis and these components exhibited immunomodulatory effects on a wide spectrum of immune cells, including cells of lymphoid or monocytic lineages, mediated by the extracellular signal-regulated kinase 2 and mitogenactivated protein-kinase signalling pathway and by eukaryotic transcription factors: nuclear factor of activated T cells and nuclear factor-kappa B. In vitro and in vivo assays have demonstrated that propolis activated monocytes/macrophages and neutrophils, increasing their microbicidal activity. It enhanced the lytic activity of natural killer cells against tumour cells. It also exhibited antiallergic effects, in part by inhibiting degranulation of mast cells or basophils. Propolis stimulated greater antibody production, suggesting that it could be used as an adjuvant in vaccines. Its inhibitory effects on lymphoproliferation might be linked to its antiinflammatory properties. However, this effect appeared to occur in the presence of high concentrations of propolis, while at low concentrations the effect is reversed, causing stimulation of lymphocyte proliferation.

1 illus, 2 tables, 97 ref

004105   GANGWAR A, JHA K K, THAKUR J, NATH M (Pedodontics and Preventive Dentistry Dep, Institute of Dental Sciences, Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh - 243 122, Email: gangwaranshul2001@ gmail.com) : In vitro evaluation of remineralization potential of novamin on artificially induced carious lesions in primary teeth using scanning electron microscope and Vickers hardness. Indian J Dent Res 2019, 30(4), 590-4.

The objective of this in vitro study was to find out the efficacy of Novamin in remineralizing enamel surface on which artificial caries lesion had been created. The changes were analyzed using Vickers Hardness Testing Machine and Scanning electron microscope (SEM). A total of 40 primary teeth were selected and divided into two groups: Control group and SHY NM (Novamin). All the samples were subjected to ph cycle protocol and assessed using Vickers Hardness Testing Machine and Scanning electron microscope. Each demineralized sample was randomly divided into two groups: Gp I –Control group, Gp II – Novamin (SHY NM). After 10‑day period of ph cycle, the obtained data was analyzed statistically. Pre and post groups were compared by paired t test. The significance of mean difference between the groups was done by Tukey’s post hoc test after ascertaining normality by Shapiro‑Wilk (W) test and homogeneity of variance by Levene’s test. A two‑tailed P value less than 0.05 (P < 0.05) was considered statistically significant. All analyses were performed on SPSS software (Windows version 17.0). Statistical analysis showed that bioactive glass (novamin) remineralizes artificially induced carious lesion in primary teeth. SHY NM (Novamin) exhibited superior remineralization potential.

4 illus, 3 tables, 16 ref

004144   NARMADA I B, CYNTHIA A I, TRIWARDHANI A (Orthodontics Dep, Airlangga Univ, Surabaya, Indonesia, Email: ida-b-n@fkg.unair.ac.id) : A comparison of antibacterial inhibitory effect on Streptococcus mutans and tensile strength between chitosan based bonding adhesives and commercial products. Indian J Dent Res 2019, 30(4), 553-7.

Adhesive bonding is the material used to attach a bracket to the enamel surface of the tooth. Streptococcus mutans contributes to enamel demineralization during orthodontic treatment. To analyze the antimicrobial inhibitory effect of Streptococcus mutans bacteria and tensile strength of chitosan and CaCO₃ ‑based adhesive bonding material. The investigation constituted laboratory experimental research featuring analytical observation and a random sampling method. The antibacterial inhibitory effect of chitosan and CaCO₃ ‑based adhesive bonding against Streptococcus mutans involved six groups: two control groups using commercial light cure and self‑cure adhesive bonding products and four groups using adhesive bonding consisting of 75 % CaCO₃ + 17.6 % Bis‑GMA + 22.4 % MMA with various percentages of chitosan composition (A1: 25 %, A2: 50 %, A3: 75 %, and A4: 100 %) each group consisting of two samples (n = 12). A diametric test was conducted consisting of three samples (n = 15) to measure the tensile strength of each group. Data were analyzed by a combination of one‑way analysis of variance and least significant difference tests. The antibacterial inhibitory effect showed significant differences between groups (A1: 2.9467 ± 0.4163, A2: 3.6500 ± 0.6245, A3: 5.1267 ± 0.2517, A4: 4.7267 ± 0.9238; P = 0.0000; P < 0.05). A diametric tensile strength test confirmed significant differences between groups (A1: 7.2733 ± 5.0046, A2: 6.7667 ± 4.4346, A3: 6.4533 ± 2.9994, A4: 1.0058 ± 1.0058, K1: 15.6167 ± 3.1250; P = 0.009; P < 0.05). Chitosan‑based adhesive bonding with good tensile strength has an antibacterial inhibitory effect against Streptococcus mutans.

4 illus, 7 tables, 15 ref

004120   JEYASIVANESAN D L, MOHAMED S P, PANDIAR D, BASHEER S (Oral Pathology Dep, Tamil Nadu Government Dental Coll and Hospital, Chennai – 600 003, Tamil Nadu, Email: dhanikamds@gmail.com) : Immunohistochemical analysis of osteopontin expression in oral squamous cell carcinoma. Indian J Dent Res 2019, 30(4), 539-43.

Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is the most common malignant neoplasm of the oral cavity. Osteopontin (OPN) has been proved as a biomarker in varying malignant tumors. Only limited studies detail the role of OPN in OSCC. This study aims to demonstrate the expression of OPN in OSCC and to correlate the expression of OPN with the histologic grades of OSCC. This is a retrospective immunohistochemical study in Dravidian population (linguistically Malayalam). Thirty diagnosed cases of OSCC were subjected to immunohistochemistry using OPN antibody for detection of OPN expression. Ten normal oral mucosal specimens were also stained as controls. Chi‑square test and ANOVA followed by Bonferroni test. OPN expression was significantly higher in OSCC patients than in controls. In normal oral mucosal specimens, none of them showed OPN immunoreactivity. A significant difference was observed between total scores and intensities of normal and varying grades of OSCC. A significant difference was also observed between the percentage of positive cells for OPN expression of normal and varying grades of OSCC. However, no significant difference was observed between the percentage of positive cells for OPN expression of well‑, moderate‑, poorly‑differentiated carcinomas. Correlation of OPN expression with lymph node status, site, and sex was found to be statistically insignificant. Insights gained from this study may lead to research targeted at the treatment of OSCC.

3 illus, 6 tables, 22 ref

004190   WADHWA H, MAHAJAN P, MONGA P, MUKHEJA A, DHILLON J, BAJAJ N (Conservative Dentistry and Endodontics Dep, Genesis Institute of Dental Sciences and Research, Ferozepur, Punjab, Email: dr.harshitawadhwa@gmail.com) : Comparative evaluation of push‑out bond strength of root‑end filling materials in root‑end cavities prepared by laser or ultrasonic technique: An in vitro study. J Conserv Dent 2019, 22(4), 396-400.

The use of mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) and Biodentine as a root‑end filling materials used in the root‑end cavities prepared by laser or ultrasonic technique is a current topic in the branch of dentistry and push‑out bond strength is used to measure the adhesiveness provided by the root‑end filling materials. The aim of this study is to evaluate the push‑out bond strength of MTA and Biodentine in root‑end cavities prepared by erbium:yttrium‑aluminium‑garne (Er:YAG) laser and ultrasonic retrotip. A total of 40 extracted maxillary central incisors and canines were selected. Chemomechanical preparation and obturation were done. Root‑end resections were performed followed by the root‑end cavity preparation and root‑end filling. Specimens were divided into four groups. Root‑end cavities prepared by Er:YAG laser and filled with MTA, root‑end cavities prepared by Er:YAG laser and filled with Biodentine, root‑end cavities prepared by ultrasonic retrotip and filled with MTA and root‑end cavities prepared by ultrasonic retrotip and filled with Biodentine, respectively. The apical end was again sectioned perpendicular to the long axis. The push‑out bond strength was evaluated using a universal testing machine. The data were analyzed using the analysis of variance and post hoc Tukey test. Difference between push‑out bond strength of root‑end filling materials to root‑end cavity walls prepared by laser and ultrasonic retrotips was statistically nonsignificant. Push‑out bond strength of MTA and Biodentine did not differ significantly. Difference between push‑out bond strength of MTA and Biodentine to root‑end cavity walls prepared by Er:YAG Laser or ultrasonic retrotip were statistically nonsignificant.

1 illus, 2 tables, 23 ref

004146   NEGI S, ADHIKARI H D, MAZUMDER D, LAKIANG R D, BHARDWAJ S (Conservative Dentistry and Endodontics Dep, Bhojia Dental Coll and Hospital, Baddi, Solan, Himachal Pradesh, Email: drshabnamnegi@gmail.com) : Comparative evaluation of microleakage after root-end resection by erbium, chromium: Yttriumscandium-gallium-garnet (Er, Cr:YSGG) laser and carbide bur with or without placement of mineral trioxide aggregate: An in vitro study. J Conserv Dent 2019, 22(4), 391-5.

Root‑end resection followed by retrofilling is one of the prime requisites to avoid apical microleakage. It comparatively evaluated the microleakage after root‑end resection by erbium, chromium:yttrium, scandium, gallium, and garnet laser and carbide bur with or without placement of mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA). In this study, 60 maxillary central incisors were decoronated and biomechanically prepared. Out of 60 samples, 48 were included in the experimental group while the rest 12 were in the control group. The samples in the experimental group were obturated, whereas the samples in the control group were not obturated. The experimental group samples were divided into two: one group resected with the laser and the other half resected with carbide bur. These groups were further subdivided into two – one group retrofilled with MTA and the other half without MTA. The control group had both laser‑ and carbide bur‑resected samples with positive and negative controls. All the samples were dyed, decalcified, and cleared. Digital photograph of each sample was taken, and the area of dye penetration was measured with the help of ImageJ software. Analysis of variance and Tukey’s test were done. The highest microleakage was seen in carbide without MTA and the least was seen with laser with MTA. Laser‑resected MTA‑retrofilled samples showed minimum leakage.

3 illus, 2 tables, 25 ref

004159   PRASANTHI P, GARLAPATI R, NAGESH B, SUJANA V, NAIK K M K, YAMINI B (Conservative Dentistry and Endodontics Dep, Sibar Institute of Dental Sciences, Guntur - 522 509, Andhra Pradesh, Email: dr.rupagarlapati@gmail.com) : Effect of 17% ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid and 0.2% chitosan on pushout bond strength of biodentine and ProRoot mineral trioxide aggregate: An in vitro study. J Conserv Dent 2019, 22(4), 387-90.

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of 17 % ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) and 0.2 % chitosan on pushout bond strength of biodentine and ProRoot mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA). Midroot dentin of single‑rooted human canine teeth were sectioned into 2‑mm‑thick slices horizontally (n = 60). The canal space of each dentin slice was enlarged with a 1.3‑mm‑diameter diamond bur. The samples were divided into two groups (n = 30) based on the type of perforation repair material placed, i.e., Biodentine and ProRoot MTA. The samples were wrapped in wet gauge for 10 min, and based on the type of chelating agent used for removal of smear layer, each group is further divided into three subgroups (n = 10), to be immersed into saline (control), 17 % EDTA and 0.2 % chitosan for 30 min, and a wet cotton pellet was placed over each test material. After 48 h of incubation, the dislodgement resistance of the samples was measured using a universal testing machine. Data were analyzed using one‑way analysis of variance and post hoc Tukey tests. The level of statistical significance was set at 0.05. Biodentine showed significantly higher pushout bond strength than ProRoot MTA. Biodentine and ProRoot MTA lost strength when exposed to 0.2 % chitosan. Biodentine showed considerable performance as a perforation repair material than ProRoot MTA even after being exposed to various endodontic chelating agents.

2 illus, 1 table, 17 ref

004081   ALKADI M, ALSALLEEH F (King Saud Univ, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Email: falsalleeh@ksu.edu.sa) : Ex vivo microbial leakage analysis of polytetrafluoroethylene tape and cotton pellet as endodontic access cavity spacers. J Conserv Dent 2019, 22(4), 381-6.

The endodontic spacers are placed between the endodontic appointments or after completion of the endodontic therapy, and until the placement of a definitive restoration. The aim of this study was to evaluate the sealing ability of polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) access spacer against microbial leakage and to compare it with that of a cotton pellet. Fifty‑two extracted human single‑rooted premolars were divided into two experimental groups (n = 20) according to the endodontic spacer; cotton pellet or PTFE tape, and two control groups (n = 6). Following standardized access cavity, cleaning, and shaping procedures, the access cavities received a standardized thickness of the spacer material followed by a Cavit restoration in all the teeth except for the positive controls, which were left empty. Negative controls had the root surfaces completely sealed with nail polish. A dual‑chamber microbial leakage model was used with Enterococcus faecalis as the test strain. At days 7 and 30, samples of the lower chambers’ solution were obtained and subjected to the quantitative real‑time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) analysis to quantify bacterial levels. Furthermore, broth turbidity in the lower chambers was recorded weekly. The Mann–Whitney U test and Wilcoxon test were used to compare E. faecalis counts between and within groups, respectively. : At days 7 and 14, the experimental groups leaked similarly as determined by broth turbidity. However, at days 21 and 30, a significantly higher number of cotton pellet samples exhibited microbial leakage. Analysis by qPCR revealed higher levels of E. faecalis counts in cotton pellet samples compared with PTFE samples. This difference was statistically significant at day 7, but not at day 30. PTFE spacer showed improved sealing ability compared with the commonly used cotton pellet and may serve as an alternative endodontic access cavity spacer.

1 illus, 2 tables, 17 ref

004136   MALLYA L, SHENOY R, MALA K, SHENOY S (Conservative Dentistry and Endodontics Dep, Manipal Coll of Dental Sciences, Mangalore, Karnataka, Email: kunda.kamath@manipal.edu) : Evaluation of the antimicrobial efficacy of 20 % Punica granatum, 0.2 % chlorhexidine gluconate, and 2.5% sodium hypochlorite used alone or in combinations against Enterococcus faecalis: An in‑vitro study. J Conserv Dent 2019, 22(4), 367-70.

The study was aimed at evaluating the antimicrobial efficacy of 20 % Punica granatum, 0.2 % chlorhexidine (CHX) gluconate, and 2.5 % sodium hypochlorite used alone or in combinations against Enterococcus faecalis. Aqueous extract of pomegranate peel was prepared in the Pharmacology Departmental Laboratory. A total of 240 wells were prepared (40 for each group) with 5 wells per with a diameter of 6 mm and depth of 4 mm at equidistant from each other. Using a pipette, each well was filled with 50 μl of the test irrigant solution. CHX (0.2 %), 2.5 % sodium hypochlorite, and aqueous extract of pomegranate peel and their combinations were tested as root canal irrigants against a standard strain of E. faecalis (ATCC 29212) on sheep blood agar plate by calculating the zones of inhibition. The mean diameter of zones was calculated and tabulated. Data were analyzed using one‑way analysis of variance and Tukey’s post hoc test. Descriptive statistics was obtained using SPSS software (version 11.5) with P established at < 0.05. Combination of Punica granatum with sodium hypochlorite and CHX showed maximum mean zones of inhibition with mean of 23.9 and 25.7 mm, respectively, and showed significantly better results than all other groups either irrigants used alone or in combinations. Punica granatum and CHX was proved to be a very good combination among experimental groups against E. faecalis, and sodium hypochlorite was least effective against E. Faecalis.

3 tables, 21 ref

004151   PARALIKAR S (Physiology Dep, Government Medical Coll, Bhavnagar, Gujarat, Email: drsparalikar@gmail.com) : Mind mapping– An intuitive tool to facilitate alignment and integration of the competency based curriculum. Natl J Integr Res Med 2019, 10(3), 60-2.

A mind map is a diagram for representing tasks, concepts or items linked to and arranged around a central concept. making intuitive mind maps can enable the curriculum committee to navigate the linear document on competency based curriculum. It would be prudent to state that making such mind maps can not only facilitate time-tabling, it is also the need of the hour.

2 illus, 3 ref

004174   SINGH T P, SHERPA M L, PRADHAN A, SINGH T A (Biochemistry Dep, Sikkim Manipal Institute of Medical Sciences, Gangtok - 737 102, Email: mingmals@yahoo.com) : Development of a simple selection protocol for optimizing the harvest of mesenchymal stem cells from explanted human umbilical cord Wharton’s jelly. Asian J Med Sci 2019, 10(4), 1-8.

Human umbilical cord Wharton’s jelly (hUCWJ) derived Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) is a non-controversial, easily available source of human tissue which has a close association with embryonic tissue. Explant culture technique of isolating MSCs do not require any proteolytic enzymes giving an edge when compared to enzymatic methods. This study was designed to develop a suitable protocol to optimize the number of primary cells by transferring the explants after a successful migration and before trypsinizing of MSCs from primary culture plate to new culture plates. For defining the isolated cells as MSCs, the cells were studied by colony forming assay, semiquantitative two steps reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and International Society for Cellular Therapy (ISCT) criteria to determine the purity of the lineage. The explant cultured cells fulfil the defining criteria by ISCT. Further, they form colony and RT-PCR confirmed the presence of thy-1, endoglin and β-actin. The incubated explant shows successful cells migration after transferring from one culture plate to another for five consecutive times. Further, it was seen that the migrated cells can be cultured for more than 18 passages. However, a reduction was seen in the migration of the cells after the 3rd transfer of the explants. This study found that the transferred explant has the potential to yield cells for 5 consecutive explant transfers. Further, this technique optimized the yield of primary cells and thereby reducing the quantity and frequency of sample collection, processing time and cost.

5 illus, 1 table, 25 ref

002845   PATTANAIK S, DEY S, JAISWAL N, ROHILLA R, SINGH S K, MANDAL A K, MAVUDURU R S (Urology Dep, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, Punjab, Email: ravismi2003@yahoo.com) : Efficacy and safety of programmed cell death‑1/ programmed cell death ligand‑1 inhibitors in advanced urothelial malignancy: A systematic review and meta‑analysis. Indian J Urol 2019, 35(2), 101-15.

Programmed cell death-1/programmed cell death ligand-1 (PD-1/PDL-1) inhibitors are the newest class of approved drugs for advanced urothelial cancer (AdUC). This review aims to collate the evidence for their efficacy and safety in various treatment settings. Extensive search of databases was performed (updated May 2018) and the protocol was registered on PROSPERO (CRD42017081568). The review was conducted according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analysis statement. STATA (v12) and Revman 5.3.5 were used for data analysis. Ten nonrandomized, open-label clinical trials were included in this review. PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors were used as second‑line, stand‑alone in eight trials and as first‑line in cisplatin‑ineligible in two trials. Heterogeneity was observed for study design, PDL-1 testing methods, cutoff criterias used and translational markers evaluated. The pooled objective response rate (ORR) was 18.2 % (95 % confidence interval [CI] 15.1–21.2, n = 1785) with PD-1/PDL-1 inhibitors in second-line settings as compared to 12.6 % (95 % CI 10.3–14.9, n = 736) with second-line chemotherapy and 23.7 % (95 % CI 19.9–27.4, n = 489) with PD‑1/PDL‑1 inhibitors as first‑line therapy in cisplatin‑ineligible patients. The median progression-free survival and overall survival was similar with PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors in both second‑ and first‑line treatment settings (1.5–2.9 vs. 2.0–2.7 months and 7.9–18.2 vs. 15.9 months) and second‑line chemotherapy (3.3–4.0 months and 7.4–8 months). Odds of achieving ORR was 0.10 (95 % CI 0.03–0.31, n = 229) in the second-line, stand-alone setting with a combined positive score (CPS) cutoff of 25 % and was 0.34 (95 % CI 0.19–0.62, n = 265) with a CPS cut‑off of 10 % in first‑line setting in the cisplatin‑ineligible. PD-1/PDL-1 inhibitors appear to be promising in the treatment of AdUC and CPS may be a potentially reliable biomarker for predicting response but needs validation. Caution needs to be exercised until more data are available on imAEs and further studies are required to prove their worth as the standard of care.

4 illus, 4 tables, 50 ref

002804   ADAK S, ROY A, DAS P, MUKHERJEE A, SENGUPTA S, MAJUMDER A L (Plant Biology Div, Bose Institute, Kolkata- 700 054) : Soil salinity and mechanical obstruction differentially affects embryonic root architecture in different rice genotypes from West Bengal. Plant Physiol Rep 2019, 24(2), 192-209.

Making the first contact with the soil environment, roots are the first responders of soil borne stress including nutrient and water scarcity, hyper salinity and soil compactness. Embryonic root responds by bending, twisting, foraging and regulation of lateral root initiation. Traditional rice cultivars adapted to diverse topography harbour novel stress tolerance traits. We established a quantitative measurement coefficient termed stress adaptation coefficient (SAC) dependent on root responses to stress and applied it to study the effect of mechanical stress and salinity on roots of rice genotypes collected all across West Bengal, India. The responses of root to mechanical and salinity stress are overlapping. Analysis of the response of roots by means of SAC in 28 rice cultivars including high-yield salt tolerant varieties as well as geographically isolated native rice genotypes shows that many of the salt tolerant varieties also perform better in mechanical stress while the opposite is not always true. Transcriptome analysis through cDNA microarray of stress sensitive variety IR64 shows about 6000 common transcripts to be differentially regulated among the two stresses. Quantitative real time expression analyses of salt sensitive and known salt tolerant varieties reveal the involvement of identified genes in salinity and mechanical stress. Overall, our study indicates that there is an important commonality in the molecular basis of salt and mechanical stress and presents an easy-to-perform early establishment stress screen for rice genotypes.

9 illus, 1 table, 44 ref

002819   BADGUJAR N V, MISTRY K N, RANK D N, JOSHI C G (Animal Breeding and Genetics Dep, Anand Agricultural Univ, Gujarat- 388 110, Email: kinnarimistry@aribas.edu.in) : Cytotoxic effect of methanolic extracts and partially purified fractions of some medicinal plants used in traditional medication. Indian J Nat Prod Resour 2019, 10(2), 119-26.

In this study, the cytotoxic activity of methanolic extracts different parts of seven plant species was checked on NRK52E (Rat renal proximal tubular cells) using MTT assay. Based on their cytotoxic activities, methanol extract of Vitex negundo (V. negundo) was selected and their partition in hexane, chloroform, ethylacetate, butanol and water was done. Among all fractions, chloroform fraction was most active on NRK-52E cells as determined by MTT assay. In NRK-52E cells induction of apoptosis was checked by analyzing DNA fragmentation by agarose gel electrophoresis. To study the molecular mechanism of apoptosis, expression levels of different genes BCL-2, BCL-Xl, SOD, TGF, Foxo and BAX were assessed using quantitative real-time PCR. Chloroform fraction of Vitex negundo (VnCE) was found to be highly antiproliferative and also showed DNA fragmentation in NRK-52E cells. VnCE showed up regulation of BCL-2, BCL-Xl, SOD, Foxo and BAX genes and down regulation of TGF gene.

4 illus, 5 tables, 44 ref

002855   SELEIT I, BAKRY O A, GAYED E A E, GHANEM M (Dermatology, Andrology and STDs Dep, Menoufiya Univ, Al Minufiyah, Egypt, Email: olabakry8@gmail.com) : Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ gene polymorphism in psoriasis and its relation to obesity, metabolic syndrome, and narrowband ultraviolet b response: A case–control study in Egyptian patients. Indian J Dermatol 2019, 64(3), 192-200.

Psoriasis is a common dermatologic disease with multifactorial etiology in which genetic factors play a major role. Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR)-γ is expressed in keratinocytes and is known to affect cell maturation and differentiation in addition to its role in inflammation.To study the association between PPAR-γ gene polymorphism and psoriasis vulgaris in Egyptian patients to explore if this polymorphism influenced disease risk or clinical presentation. Forty-five patients with psoriasis vulgaris and 45 age, sex and body mass index matched healthy volunteers who have no present, past or family history of psoriasis as a control group were enrolled. Selected cases included obese and nonobese participants. Detection of PPAR-γ gene polymorphism was done with restriction fragment length polymorphism polymerase chain reaction. Narrow-band ultraviolet B (NBUVB) was given for every case three times/week for 12 weeks. Homopolymorphism, heteropolymorphism, and Ala allele were significantly associated with cases (P = 0.01, P = 0.01, and P = 0.004, respectively) and increased risk of occurrence of psoriasis by 5.25, 3.65, and 3.37 folds, respectively. Heteropolymorphism was significantly associated with nonobese cases compared to obese ones (P = 0.01). Ala allele was significantly associated with obese cases (P = 0.001) and increased risk of occurrence of psoriasis in obese participants by 1.14 folds. Homopolymorphism, heteropolymorphism, and Ala allele were more prevalent among obese cases without metabolic syndrome (MS) than obese cases with MS but without statistical significance. Percentage of decrease of mean Psoriasis Area and Severity Index score before and after 3 months of treatment with NBUVB was higher in cases with heteropolymorphism with no significant difference between homo- and heteropolymorphism. PPAR-γ gene polymorphism is associated with and increased the risk of psoriasis and its associated obesity in Egyptian patients. It has no role in NBUVB response in those patients. Future large-scale studies on different populations are recommended.

2 illus, 2 tables, 68 ref

002846   PEÑA-GUZMÁN C, BUITRAGO D, LUNA H (Santo Tomas Univ, Bogotá, Colombia) : Influence of a low-frequency magnetic field on the growth of microorganisms in activated sludge. Nat Environ Pollut Technol 2019, 18(2), 587-92.

Activated sludge treatment systems for wastewater treatment are increasingly used worldwide, and their efficiencies in the removal of organic matter are high. However these depend on the growth and development of the microorganisms that compose it, therefore generating a stimulus that allows to increase the microbial growth to have an impact on the removal. One of the methods that are currently being researched to stimulate this growth is the use of low-frequency magnetic fields. Therefore, this article presents the response of different microorganisms contained in an activated sludge at magnetic field densities of 5, 10 and 20 mT in periods of time of 30, 60 and 120 minutes, finding that for magnetic fields of 10 mT for 60 minutes and 20 mT for 30 minutes there is an increase in the growth rate close to 68% in bacteria, while for fungi the greatest increase was found in the magnetic field of 5 mT during all exposure times close to 50%. On the other hand, there was also an inhibitory effect for bacteria and fungi in magnetic fields of 10 and 20 mT for different times.

2 illus, 6 tables, 11 ref

002816   ANDHARE AISHWARYA A (Microbiology and Biotechnology Dep, Dayanand Science Coll, Latur, Maharashtra) : Phytotoxic effect of Abutilon indicum, Tephrosia purpurea, Prosopis juliflora, Cassia occidentalis on Parthenium hysterophorus. Pharma Innov 2019, 8(6), 255-9.

A study was conducted with aim to evaluate the bio-herbicidal potential of ethanolic extracts of Abutilon indicum, Tephrosia purpurea, Prosopis juliflora, Cassia occidentalis on growth and germination of invasive weed Parthenium hysterophorus. The effect on seed germination and seedling growth was assayed by using Agar germination media. Preparation of plant extract was done by using ethanol. Ethanolic Plant Extracts were tested separately for germination of Parthenium seed. The test was performed for 11 days. Plant extracts were made with 25% Ethanol and has shown significant reduction in total germination percent (GP), germination index (GI), germination energy (GE), speed of emergence (SE) and seedling vigour index (SVI) of Parthenium hysterophorus. Result revealed that Prosopis juliflora and Cassia occidentalis has strong phytotoxic properties as compared with Abutilon indicum, Tephrosia purpurea. After prolonged comparative study, all four plant extracts has shown a good phytotoxic property towards Parthenium hysterophorus. Isolation and characterization of those phytotoxic substances from these plants may act as a tool for new natural, biodegradable herbicide development to manage invasive weeds like Parthenium hysterophorus.

1 illus, 3 tables, 30 ref

002854   SATHYA M, SAKTHI SHREE K (Zoology Dep, Government Arts Coll, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu) : Comparative efficacy of cinnamon extract, Cinnamaldehyde, silver nanoparticles and conjugated silver nanoparticles in attenuation of cadmium induced testicular toxicity. Pharma Innov 2019, 8(6), 73-80.

Cadmium is an environmental contaminant, a known endocrine disruptor and reproductive toxicant, The present study aims to elucidate the comparative efficacy of Cinnamon Extract (CE), Cinnamaldehyde (CA), Silver Nanoparticles (AgNPs) and Conjugated Siver Nanoparticles (CAgNPs) produced by Green synthesis, in attenuating the testicular toxicity induced by Cadmium at a dosage of 200 mg/Kg Bodyweight (BW) for a period of 90 days. Six Groups of 4 rats each were selected. One group given saline and treated as control, second group given Cadmium and all the rest of the groups given Cadmium along with the respective Co-administration of CE, CA, AgNPs and CAgNPs. After treatment schedule, samples were collected and biochemical parameters - Glucose, Total Cholesterol and serum Triglyceride as well as hormonal parameters – Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH), Luteinizing Hormone (LH) and Testosterone (TST) were evaluated along with changes in Histo architecture of Testis. Reduction in body weight (BW), Testicular weight (TW), Glucose Level, total cholesterol and FSH Levels with increase in Triglyceride as well as LH and TST Levels were observed in rats. Deleterious changes in Histopathology of Testis seems to be attenuated to near normalcy on co-administration of the above agents to a certain extent. Of the four, conjugated AgNPs seen to give an effective reversal of Cadmium induced toxic effect.

9 illus, 42 ref

002856   SETHY K, DHAIGUDE V, MUKHERJEE R D, DWIBEDY P, NAYAK M, PRIYADARSHINEE P (Animal Nutrition Dep, CVSc. & AH, OUAT, Bhubaneswar, Odisha) : Calcium homeostasis in transition cows. Pharma Innov 2019, 8(5), 228-30.

Milk fever is a metabolic disease of cows occurring around the time of parturition, generally within 48 hr after calving, but also occurs several weeks before or after calving. A decreased level of blood calcium is responsible for milk fever in transition cows. This is due to imbalance between calcium output in the colostrums and intake of calcium through feed. A cow producing 10 kg of colostrums will loose around 23 g of calcium in single milking. This is about nine times as much as calcium present in the entire plasma calcium pool of the cow. The feedstuffs high in calcium and potassium can increase the occurrence of milk fever by reducing the mobilisation of calcium from the bones. Feeding anionic salt or manipulating the dietary cation and anion difference of the diet has become a common approach for maintaining calcium homeostasis in transition cows.

1 table, 23 ref

002828   GOGOI R, ROY D C (Veterinary Pharmacology & Toxicology Dep, Apollo Coll of Veterinary Medicine, Jaipur, Rajasthan) : Effect of cooking on ciprofloxacin level in chicken meat. Pharma Innov 2019, 8(5), 208-10.

The present study was undertaken to determine the effects of cooking methods like boiling, deep-frying and microwaving on Ciprofloxacin (CPR) level in chicken meat. Chicken meat samples incurred with known concentration of CPR were subjected to these cooking procedures. The cooked samples were then analysed to record the level of CPR residue using Ultra High Performance Liquid Chromatography (UHPLC) system. The results showed the reduction in concentration of CPR level after different cooking processes. The most reduced level of CPR in cooked meat samples was observed in microwaving followed by deep-frying and then boiling. The result shows significant reduction in CPR level in chicken meat after cooking. It may be concluded that cooking of meat leads to decrease in the concentration of CPR.

1 illus, 1 table, 14 ref

002839   NAZARI Z, GHAFARI S, GOLALIPOUR M J (Anatomical Sciences Dep, Golestan Univ of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran, Email: mjgolalipour@yahoo. com) : Gestational diabetes alters the expression of genes involved in sertoli cells maturation in testis tissue from adult rat offspring. J Anat Soc India 2019, 68(2), 119-22.

Previous Studies indicate that both type 1 and 2 diabetes mellitus have adverse effects on the male reproductive system. Furthermore, it has recently shown that induced gestational diabetes significantly reduces the Sertoli cells number in the rat offspring. This study was done to evaluate the effect of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) on the expression of genes involved in Sertoli cell proliferation and maturation in the adult rat offspring. To test this hypothesis, 12 Wistar rat dams were randomly allocated to control and diabetic groups. The diabetic group received 40 mg/kg/body weight of streptozotocin on day 0 of gestation. After delivery, six offspring of each group at the age of 12 weeks scarified and testis tissue harvested. After RNA extraction, the expression of p27kip1, A‑kinase anchoring protein 9, CX43, and aromatase genes in both groups was evaluated by quantitative real‑time polymerase chain reaction. Our data showed that the expression of all examined genes which are important in Sertoli cells maturity and function were lower in GDM offspring. p27kip1 and aromatase were significantly downregulated in GDM offspring by 57% and 41%, respectively (P ˂ 0.05*). In summary, we provide evidence that GDM may adverse effects on the male reproductive system in the offspring by alterations in the expression of genes responsible for Sertoli cell proliferation and differentiation.

2 illus, 1 table, 26 ref

002824   FEBRIYENTI F, LUCIDA H, ALMAHDY A, ALFIKRIYAH I, HANIF M (Andalas Univ, Padang 25163, Indonesia, Email: febriyenti@phar.unand.ac.id) : Wound-healing effect of honey gel and film. J Pharm Bioall Sci 2019, 11(2), 176-80.

Honey has been formulated into gel and film dosage forms for burn wound as previously reported. In this study, we evaluated the ability of honey gel and film to promote the healing of burns and incision wounds on the skin of Sprague-Dawley female white rats. Twenty-four female rats were divided into four groups, which were treatment groups (for honey gel or film), negative control, and positive control (treated with marketed product “B”), respectively. Burn and incision wound were created by the method previously reported with slight modification. Parameters such as the percentage of wound closure and the tensile strength of the incision wound were determined. The experimental results showed that honey film has a greater effectiveness to accelerate the healing for burns and incision wound in comparison to the negative control. Two-way analysis of variance indicates the type of treatment group, and time has a significant effect on the burn wound (P < 0.05). Honey film shows the significant difference (P < 0.05) with other group on the incision wound.

3 illus, 31 ref

002843   PALANISAMY C P, ASHAFA A O T (Plant Sciences Dep, Free State Univ, Phuthaditjhaba 9866, South Africa, Email: ashafaaot@ufs.ac.za) : Screening of potential phytocompounds from Euclea crispa (Thunb.) leaves targeting human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) signaling pathway. J Pharm Bioall Sci 2019, 11(2), 155-61.

Overexpression of human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) plays an important role in the development and progression in a variety of cancers and it is a novel therapeutic target for breast cancer and ovarian cancer. Euclea crispa (E. crispa) is a South African medicinal plant in the family Ebenaceae used in the management of different human diseases and disorders. The aim of this study was to evaluate the potential inhibitors against HER2 from hexane extract of E. crispa leaves. Chemical fingerprinting method was used to identify the presence of natural compounds from the extract whereas their inhibitory activities were analyzed by molecular docking analysis against HER2. Absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion (ADME) properties also predicted to establish the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics profiles of the selected compounds. The molecular docking analysis expressed that phenyl glucuronide, hydrocortisone acetate, and 6-(4,6-dioxo-1,4,5,6-tetrahydropyrimidin-2-yl-amino)hexanoic acid trifluoroacetate possess good inhibitory activities with good glide score of −6.63, −5.41, and −5.40 and glide energy of −35.03, −42.51, and −31.38 kcal/mol, respectively when compared with standard Food and Drug Administration– approved drug and other compounds. All the screened compounds were within the acceptable and permissible limits of ADME properties. Thus, from this study it can be concluded that, these screened natural compounds from E. crispa leaves may serve as potential inhibitors for HER2 and they might lead to development of new therapeutic agents against cancer and its associated complications.

2 illus, 3 tables, 21 ref

002817   ANEESA N N, ANITHA R, VARGHESE S (Pharmacology Dep, Saveetha Dental Coll, Velappanchavady, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, Email: anitharoy2015@gmail.com) : Antidiabetic activity of ajwain oil in different in vitro models. J Pharm Bioall Sci 2019, 11(2), 142-7.

Ajwain oil is an essential oil with thymol as its major constituent which is known for many pharmacological activities. To evaluate the anti-hyperglycaemic potential of ajwain oil using different in vitro models. In vitro α-amylase and α-glucosidase inhibitory effect of ajwain oil was carried out by the method of Bernfeld and Shibano et al. 1997 with minor modifications respectively. Cytotoxicity of the ajwain oil was assessed using MTT assay. Glucose uptake potential was assessed in differentiated L6 myotubes using fluorescent tagged 6-NBDG. Ajwain oil showed very good α – amylase inhibitory activity. A maximum inhibition of 88.55 ± 0.43 % was achieved at a concentration of 4 µL/ml by ajwain oil which was comparable to that of standard acarbose, 90.96 ± 1.81%. The IC₅₀ of the extract was found to be 0.47 µL/ml and for acarbose 0.69  µL/ml. The maximum in vitro α – glucosidase inhibitory activity was found to be 89 ± 0.72 % and 91.67 ± 1.09% at 4 µL/ml for ajwain oil and acarbose. The IC₅₀ of the extract and acarbose were found to be 0.37 µL/ml and 0.41 µL/ml respectively. Ajwain oil has enhanced glucose uptake in L6 myotubes in a dose dependent manner. The anti-hyperglycaemic activity of the ajwain oil strongly support its ability to decrease sugar level hence it may be further validated for its use as an antidiabetic agent.

4 illus, 1 table, 23 ref

002826   GILL R, POOJAR B, BAIRY L K, PRAVEEN K S E (Pharmacology Dep, Lady Hardinge Medical Coll, Connaught Place, New Delhi 110001, Email: rupamkaurgill@gmail.com) : Comparative evaluation of wound healing potential of manuka and acacia honey in diabetic and nondiabetic rats. J Pharm Bioall Sci 2019, 11(2), 116-26.

Manuka honey has attracted the attention of the scientific community for its antimicrobial and antioxidant properties. The active compounds of manuka honey to which its myeloperoxidase activity inhibition is owed are methyl syringate (MSYR) and leptosin (a novel glycoside of MSYR). The non-peroxide antibacterial activity is attributed to glyoxal, 3-deoxyglucosulose, and methylglyoxal. These properties make it an inexpensive and effective topical treatment in wound management. This study has focused on the evaluation of the effect of manuka honey and acacia honey on wound healing in nondiabetic and streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. This study was conducted on a total of 42 rats (six rats in each group) and respective drug/ substance was topically applied once daily on the excision wound for 21 days. Induction of diabetes was carried out in rats in groups IV, V, VI, and VII only. Measurement of wound contraction was carried out on days 3, 6, 9, 12, 15, 18, and 21 after operation. Time taken for the complete epithelization was recorded along with a histopathological examination of the healed wound bed. Topical application of manuka honey achieved ≥80% wound contraction on day 9 after operation in both the nondiabetic and diabetic group. Complete epithelization was achieved 2  days earlier than the normal epithelization time in the manuka group. Histopathological examination showed well-formed keratinized squamous epithelium with normal collagen tissue surrounding hair follicles. This study provides good outcome with respect to wound healing (especially in diabetic condition) when manuka honey was compared to acacia honey and standard treatment.

8 illus, 1 table, 45 ref

002825   GHODKE D D, INGOLE R S, HEDAU M S, RATHOD P R, HAJARE S W, KHOSE K K (Veterinary Pathology Dep, Post Graduate Institute of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Akola – 444104, Maharashtra, Email: ingoleranjit@rediffmail.com) : Ultra-structural pathology of liver due to subacute acephate toxicity in broiler chickens. Indian J Vet Pathol 2019, 43(2), 120-3.

Day old, 100 broiler chicks were randomly divided into five equal groups. From day zero, group I was served as control whereas, group II, III, IV and V were fed with acephate @ 1/20th, 1/15th, 1/10th and 1/5th LD₅₀ per kg feed, respectively (LD₅₀ = 852 mg/kg) for a period of 4 weeks. Microscopic examination of liver in group II and III showed mild granular and vacuolar degenerative changes in hepatocytes and mild increased sinusoidal spaces. Whereas, group IV and V showed prominent lymphoid aggregation, bile duct hyperplasia, extensive granular and vacuolar changes, condensation of nucleus, areas of necrosis and fatty changes. Ultra structurally, the liver from group IV and V revealed eruption and perforation of nuclear wall, loss of chromatin, swollen mitochondria with degenerative changes, severe loss of endoplasmic reticulum and residues of cell organelles in the cytopolasm. Lesions were more severe in group V. While low dosed groups (Group II and III) showed similar findings with mild intensity. On the basis of histopathological and ultra structural findings, it is concluded that acephate produces dose dependant hepatotoxicity in broiler chickens.

5 illus, 16 ref

002865   TIKORE P V, RATHOD P R, INGOLE R S, KHODKE M V, KHOSE K K (Veterinary Pathology Dep, Post Graduate Institute of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Akola – 444104, Maharashtra, Email: pravintoo@gmail.com) : Toxicity of fenvalerate on immune system and immuno-modulatory effects of Withania somnifera (Ashwagandha) in cockerels. Indian J Vet Pathol 2019, 43(2), 115-9.

The effect of supplementation of Withania somnifera root powder on the immune-modulatory response in cockerels with induced sub-acute fenvalerate toxicity was investigated.After acclimatization for a period of one week, day-old 80 cockerels were randomly divided into four equal groups comprising 20 birds in each. Group T1 (control), group T2, was treated with fenvalerate @ 300 mg/kg of feed, group T3, was treated with Withania somnifera @ 200 mg/kg of feed and group T4, was given fenvalerate @ 300 mg/kg of feed with Withania somnifera@ 200 mg/kg of feed for four weeks and withdrawal of treatment for seven days. Haemagglutination inhibition (HI) titer against Newcastle Disease virus (NDV) in fenvalerate treated group was found to be significantly (Pd”0.05) decreased. T4 group showedan immune-modulatory activity of Withania somnifera during fenvalerate toxicity at 5th week, while immune response of T2 group was not significantly different at 6th week, which indicated enhanced immune response of this group. Histologically, spleen, bursa of Fabricius and thymus showed depletion of lymphocytes and focal necrosis probably due to immunotoxic effects of fenvalerate. Thyroid gland exhibited minimum amount of colloid and vacuolization in the lining epithelium of the follicles. Amelioration of these lesions were seen in the T4 group due to the protective effect of Withania somnifera. Birds of T2 group, examined after having fed for 6 weeks, showed mild lesions indicating recovery and in T4 group showed a moderate recovery.

2 illus, 1 table, 17 ref

002859   SHARMA M, CHATTOPADHYA D, CHAKRAVARTI A, GILL P S, YUMNAM H (Microbiology Dep, SGT Medical Coll Hospital and Research Institute, Gurugram, Haryana, Email: molecularlab@sgtuniversity.org) : Role of pro-inflammatory IL-8 and anti- inflammatory IL-10 cytokines in dengue severity. J Commun Dis 2019, 53(2), 69-75.

During dengue infection, cytokine levels may increase as various cytokines are released from infected inflammatory cells. This study was conducted to measure the levels of cytokines IL-8 and IL-10 in dengue patients and correlate them with dengue severity. A prospective study was conducted on febrile patients suspected of dengue fever, seeking medical care in our institute. 107 cases confirmed to have dengue fever (by NS1/ IgM ELISA) and 100 healthy individuals with age  and sex-matched, were included in the study. The clinical features of all patients were recorded, and cytokine levels of IL-8 and IL-10 were estimated by ELISA in the dengue patients and healthy controls. Out of 400 febrile patients suspected of having dengue fever, 107 (26.75 %) cases were confirmed cases, of which 56 (52.3 %), 20 (18.7 %), and 31 (29 %) were positive for only NS1 antigen, only IgM antibody, and both NS1 and IgM, respectively. Depending on the severity of the disease, 9 (8.5 %) cases were classified as severe dengue cases while 98 (91.5 %) as non-severe dengue fever. Mean levels (pg/ml) for IL-8 were 281.6 ± 76.6, 150.41 ± 55.9 and 75.4 ± 49.2 in severe dengue, dengue fever, and healthy controls respectively while for IL-10, the values were 219.4 ± 150.5, 38.9 ± 67.2, and 6.6 ± 0.65 among severe dengue cases, dengue cases, and healthy controls, respectively.  Mean level of cytokines IL-8 and IL-10 were significantly raised in severe dengue patients as compared to non-severe dengue patients and healthy controls, suggesting their role in causing severe disease and as a potential predictor for disease severity and fatal outcome.

4 illus, 5 tables, 24 ref

002863   SIMO R V, ATEBA S B, ZINGUÉ S, PIEME C A, NJAMEN D (Animal Biology and Physiology Dep, Yaoundé1 Univ, P.O. Box 812 Yaoundé, Cameroon, Email: dnjamen@gmail.com) : Baillonella toxisperma improves sexual performance and protects against stress-induced reproductive dysfunction in male Wistar rats. J Phytopharmacol 2019, 8(3), 117-23.

Baillonella toxisperma Pierre (Sapotaceae) is a medicinal plant widely used in Central Africa against several diseases including erectile dysfunction and male infertility. However, no study dealing with these male reproductive dysfunctions has been published until now. Accordingly, the present study was undertaken. It evaluated the capacity of an aqueous extract of stem bark of B. toxisperma (BT) at 75, 150 and 300 mg/kg/d to induce aphrodisiac effects and prevent the stress-induced reproductive dysfunction in males using normal non-experienced (an 8-day oral treatment) and stressed (a 6-h/day immobilization stress for 35 consecutive days)male Wistar rats. Both in normal and stressed animals, BT at the doses of 150 and 300 mg/kg decreased (p < 0.05) the mount and intromission latencies, and increased (p < 0.05) the number of total penile licking, mount and intromission as well as ejaculation frequencies. In stressed animals, a significant (p < 0.05) increase in sperm levels, sperm mobility as well as in the relative weight of androgen-dependent organs (testis, epididymis and seminal vesicles) was observed at the same doses compared with the stressed control. These results suggest that this aqueous extract of B. toxisperma might endow with aphrodisiac and androgenic properties in normal and stressed male Wistar rats.

2 illus, 5 tables, 73 ref

002833   JEYATHILAKAN N, SUNDAR S T B, SANGARAN A, LATHA B R (Veterinary Parasitology Dep, Tamil Nadu Veterinary and Animal Sciences Univ, Chennai-600007, Tamil Nadu, Email: drnjeyathilakan@gmail.com) : In vitro acaricidal properties of aqueous extracts of Allium sativum, Zingiber officinale and Aloe vera on brown dog tick, Rhipicephalus sanguineus. J Vet Parasitol 2019, 33(1), 41-6.

In vitro acaricidal properties of aqueous extracts of Allium sativum (Garlic), Zingiber officinale (Ginger) and Aloe vera (Indian aloe) on brown dog tick, Rhipicephalus sanguineus was recorded. The lethal effect of extracts as well as histopathological changes on adult male and female ticks, tick larvae and ova were studied. The extracts were tested at 100%, 75%, 50%, 25%, 5%, 2.5% and 1% concentrations for ova, 5%, 2.5% and 1% level for other stages and efficacy levels were compared with a known acaricide, deltamethrin. Results revealed that all the extracts were toxic at 5% to both male and female adult and larval R. sanguineus ticks, with an immediate knock down effect within few minutes of exposure to the extracts. Histopathologically, ticks treated with the extracts showed cuticular damage along with breaching and loss of homogeneity of both epicuticle and endocuticle. However, the extracts did not show any effect on eclosion of tick eggs even at 100% concentration. It was concluded that in vitro, aqueous extract of A. sativum, Z. officinale and A. vera at 5% concentration had 100% acaricidal effect on adult female, male and larval brown dog tick.

1 illus, 4 tables, 17 ref

002811   ALAGBE J O, OMOKORE E A (Animal Nutrition Dep, Sumitra Research Farm, Gujarat) : Effect of replacing soya bean meal with indigofera zollingeriana leaf meal on the performance and carcass characteristics of growing rabbits. Int J Multidiscip Res Dev 2019, 6(5), 74-7.

The current experiment was carried out to evaluate the effect of replacing soya bean meal with Indigofera zollingerian leaf meal (IZML) on the performance and carcass characteristics of growing rabbits. Fifty (50) 7-8 weeks bucks cross breed rabbits (Chinchilla × New Zealand White) with an average weight of 553.7 g and 560.5 g were allotted to five treatments with ten rabbits per treatment in a completely randomized design. IZML was used to replace soya meal at 0%, 10%, 20%, 30% and 40% for T1, T2, T3, T4 and T5 respectively. Feed and water was provided ad libitum throughout the experiment which lasted for 10 weeks. Results obtained revealed that final live weight, average weight gain, total feed intake, feed conversion ratio and daily water intake showed no significant (p>0.05) difference among the treatments. Dressing percentage, weights of liver, kidney, heart, lungs, spleen and testis were not significantly (p>0.05) affected. From the results obtained it was concluded that IZML can replace soya meal up to 40% for optimum performance in the diet of growing rabbits.

4 tables, 25 ref

002835   LAXMI K P, RANI P U (Applied Biology Div, CSIR-Indian Institute of Chemical Technology, Tarnaka, Hyderabad, Telangana) : Behavioral responses of parasitoid Trichogramma chilonis towards infochemicals from host plant Solanum melongena and pest Leucinodes orbonalis. Int J Entomol Res 2019, 4(3), 01-9.

Brinjal shoot and fruit borer Leucinodes orbonalis G. is one of the many hosts of Trichogramma chilonis, a generalist egg parasitoid of several crop pests. We studied the effects of different induced contact infochemicals from this pest infested host plant, Solanum melongena L. (Brinjal) and the short-range pest derived kairomones such as larvae frass, female and adult body washings, synthetic pheromone blend and egg surface chemicals on host searching, host acceptance behavior and oviposition behavior of T. chilonis under laboratory conditions. T. chilonis orientation behavior was recorded in Y- olfactometers and oviposition behavior in Petri plates. The crude leaf surface extracts from pest infested Brinjals showed good attractant activity and when various semi-purified ethyl acetate- hexane eluted chromatographic fractions of infested and infected leaf surface extracts were tested, 4% EA-He fraction from infested Brinjal leaf extract exhibited maximum orientation and parasitization followed by 8% EA-He fraction. These results correlated with experiments done using the artificial plants in larger arena. Synthetic pheromone blend as well as female adult body washings arrested the parasitoids and also stimulated parasitization in the dual choice and multi choice oviposition assays. As synthetic pheromone caused highest oviposition rate it is tested in a single armed long tube olfactometer to measure the effective distance of attractant activity. These results are interesting in the context of tritrophic interactions and can find application in biological control.

5 illus, 45 ref