028015   WIDIARSO B P, KURNIASIH K, PRASTOWO J, NURCAHYO W (Parasitology Dep, Gadjah Mada Univ, Indonesia, Email: wisnu-nc@ugm.ac.id) : Morphology and morphometry of Haemonchus contortus exposed to Gigantochloa apus crude aqueous extract. Vet World 2018, 11(7), 921-5.

Haemonchus contortus is the most pathogenic nematode infesting the digestive tract of goats and sheep worldwide leading to a tremendous loss in a variety of routes. Economic losses due to haemonchosis in subtropic and tropic areas are usually caused by poor weight gain, minimized growth, loss of production, and mortality. The prevalence of haemonchosis in Indonesia is 89.4 % in goat, and annual loss achieved 1 million US dollars. This study evaluated in vitro effects of Gigantochloa apus crude aqueous extract as an anthelmintic on H. contortus morphology and morphometry. Bligon goats which are naturally infected were collected from slaughtered goat from local slaughterhouses, namely Besi Sleman. Bligon goat’s abomasum part was carefully examined and transported to the Parasitology Laboratory, University of Gadjah Mada, Yogyakarta. H. contortus was obtained from 4 to 6-month-old female goat from slaughterhouses in Yogyakarta area. H. contortus was collected from abomasum and put into a Petri dish containing 0.62 % water saline. The number of H. contortus used for each concentration is 25. H. contortus was soaked in each concentration for 4 h. The figure of the parasites or parts of parasites was captured using camera Lucida, and they were measured using both objective micrometer and objective ocular micrometer. All the capturing processes were done with the help of Olympus Digital Camera under Olympus CX21 microscopic. Parasite morphology was identified in morphological and morphometric characters. Morphology of H. contortus revealed the cervical papillae bulge appears unclear shape and anterior end is more tapered. Vulvar flab control is not tapered, but vulvar flab which gets aware of G. apus crude aqueous extract looks more pointed. The gubernaculum appears irregular compared to gubernaculum control which tends to be more compact, and the posterior end form appears irregular more than posterior end control. Morphometry study of H. contortus indicates that it has a significant difference for body length, body width, cervical papillae, and spicule length in the male.  G. apus crude aqueous extract activity revealed morphology change such as cervical papillae, vulvar flab, gubernaculum, posterior end, and reduced morphometry measurement of H. contortus adult worms, notably in body length, body width, cervical papillae width, gubernaculum, and spicule length in males and body length, body width, cervical papillae width, and vulva length in females.

4 illus, 2 tables, 17 ref

027950   MOULLA F, EL-BOUYAHIAOUI R, NAZIH R, ABDELAZIZ N, ZERROUKI N, IGUER-OUADA M (De Béjaia Univ, Algérie, Email: imokrane@gmail.com) : Characterization of the onset of puberty in Tazegzawt lambs, an endangered Algerian sheep: Body weight, thoracic perimeter, testicular growth, and seminal parameters. Vet World 2018, 11(7), 889-94.

The aim of the present study was to define the onset of puberty in Tazegzawt ram lambs, an Algerian sheep breed in endangered status with a small population in its local area. Body growth (body weight and thoracic perimeter), scrotal circumference (SC), penis development stages, and seminal parameters (volume, concentration, and motility) were measured. Data were recorded at fortnightly intervals in 10 animals from 9 to 49 weeks of age. On the basis of seminal analyses, puberty occurred between 29 and 45 weeks of age. At 29 weeks of age, 30 % of lambs reached puberty, and at 45 weeks of age, puberty was observed in 100 % of the analyzed animals. Body weight appeared as the most determinant factor, and the onset of puberty was observed when animals reached 43.2 ± 6.4 kg body weight with 25.8 ± 3.7 cm of SC. Seminal analyses revealed that all parameters increased regularly from puberty onset except for sperm concentration. The mean semen volume during the study period was 0.48 ± 0.33 mL with 0.84 ± 0.6 mL at 37 weeks of age. Sperm concentration evolved similarly as semen volume; at 29 and 43 weeks of age, the sperm concentration was 942×10⁶ and 1904×10⁶ spermatozoa/mL, respectively. Kinematic parameters including the percentage of motility, the percentage of progressive motility, and gametes velocities as determined by Computer-Aided Sperm Analyzer showed the highest values at 49 weeks of age. The current results revealed that, in Tazegzawt ram lambs, puberty occurs between 29 and 45 weeks when animals reach 43.2 ± 4.6 kg body weight.

5 illus, 3 tables, 26 ref

028979   NNAMONU E I , EJERE V C , MBEGBU E C , EZECHUKWU C S, EJIM A O (Veterinary Physiology and Pharmacology Dep, Nigeria Nsukka Univ, Nigeria, Email: Edmund.mbegbu@unn.edu.ng.) : Effects of methanolic calyx extract of Hibiscus sabdariffa on body weight, blood cholesterol and liver marker enzymes in wistar rats. J Med Plants Res 2018, 12(26), 427-34.

Eighty male albino rats were used to investigate the effects of methanolic calyx extract of Hibiscus sabdariffa on body weight, blood cholesterol and liver enzymes markers. Twenty-eight days oral administration of 100, 200, 400 and 800 mg/kg body weight of the extract showed a significant (p<0.05) decreased the serum cholesterol and increased the liver marker enzymes (ALP, ALT and AST) in dose-dependent and time-dependent manner, when compared with the control. However, on day 21, the group treated with 400 mg/kg showed a significant (p<0.05) increase the serum cholesterol, and decrease in liver marker enzymes when compared with the rest of the treatment groups. Histopathology from all the treatment groups revealed graded degrees of vacuolar degeneration of the hepatocytes and peri-portal infiltration of mononuclear leucocytes. The results of this present study suggests that the methanolic calyx extract of H. sabdariffa possesses anti-obesity and hypocholesterolemic potentials which should be harnessed with caution due to its tendency to adversely affect the liver.

5 illus, 2 tables, 33 ref

028902   BASTOS T S, COSTA D B N D, VALOIS R B V, THOMAZZI S M, NASCIMENTO M F D, DÓRIA G A A, AMARAL R G, GOMES S V F, LIMA-VERDE I B & CARDOSO C A L et al. (Research and Technology Institute (ITP), 300 Murilo Dantas Ave, 49032-490 Aracaju, SE, Brazil) : In vivo antitumor effect of the aqueous extract of Punica granatum in the sarcoma 180 murine model. J Med Plants Res 2018, 12(26), 415-26.

Punica granatum, specifically the fruit, has a long ethno medical history and is a phytochemical reservoir of great medicinal value. The phytochemistry and pharmacological actions of all P. granatum components suggest a wide range of clinical applications. The aim of the present study is to investigate the anticancer potential of aqueous extract of P. granatum (AEPG) in experimental models. The chemical composition of the AEPG was assessed by HPLC-DAD. In vivo antitumor activity was assessed in sarcoma 180 bearing mice. To evaluate the toxicological aspects related to the AEPG treatment, hematological, biochemical, histopathological and morphological analyses of treated animals were performed. Gallic acid, punicalagin α, punicalagin β, and ellagic acid were identified as the major phytochemical compounds of the extract. AEPG and 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) induced significant inhibition of tumor growth when compared with saline (p < 0.05). The percentage of apoptotic cells was significantly increased in 5-FU (p < 0.01) and AEPG treated groups (p < 0.01). No significant difference was observed between 5-FU and the three doses of AEPG. 5-FU induced toxic effects, such as decrease of body weight, splenic atrophy, and leukopenia, but these effects were not found in AEPG treated groups. The results provide evidence that AEPG exhibits comparable antitumor effects as 5-FU in a murine model, likely the result of increased apoptotic rate, but with no remarkable side effects presented by 5-FU.

8 illus, 5 tables, 40 ref

028907   BORGES J C M, SILVA E A P E, BARROS T C A D E, SOARES I M, ASCENCIO S D, FIDLELIS R R, AGUIAR R D W D S (Biotechnology Dep, Federal Univ of Tocantins, Brazil, Email: rwsa@mail.uft.edu.com) : Chemical composition, oviposition deterrent and larvicidal activities of the wood extracts of Tabebuia avellanedae from the Cerrado of Brazil. J Med Plants Res 2018, 12(25), 404-14.

Tabebuia avellanedae is an important timber source belonging to the family of Bignoniaceae. The latter is known for its richness in terms of variety of bioactive chemical constituents, and it has been used in folk medicine for treatment of various diseases. The aim of this work was to investigate the chemical composition, oviposition deterrent and larvicidal activities of the wood extracts of T. avellanedae from the Cerrado of Brazil. Extracts of acetone, ethyl acetate and ethanol from T. avellanedae were obtained using various extraction methods. Quantitative analysis of phytochemical screening confirmed the presence of phenols and tannins in the wood extracts, however, anthraquinones, coumarins and alkaloids were absent. The toxicity of T. avellanedae extracts against 3rd instar larvae of Aedes aegypti using maceration and Soxhlet extraction methods was analyzed. The acetone and ethyl acetate extracts obtained by Soxhlet extraction were more toxic against 3rd instar A. aegypti larvae, with CL₅₀ of 100.1 and 151.0 μg/mL, respectively. The mortality values (LT₅₀ and LT₉₅) were 38.66 and 66.74 min for ethyl acetate extract, respectively, and 53.47 and 119.96 min for acetone extract, respectively. In all cases, the assay showed that all extracts presented mortality of 100 % to 3rd instar larvae after 12 h. The oviposition assay showed that gravid A. aegypti females laid their eggs preferentially in the control ovitraps. The ethanol extract at 333.3 μg/mL strongly deterred oviposition by 89.89 % while the ethyl acetate and acetone extracts presented 89.04 and 68.10 % deterrence, respectively. The bioactive compounds in T. avellanedae make it a potential source for the control of A. aegypti vectors, without promoting deforestation of trees.

2 illus, 4 tables, 61 ref

028926   EZE, CHINELO C, ATTAMA, ANTHONY A, IBEZIM, EMMANUEL C, BEREBON, DINEBARI P, AGBO, MARTINA C (Pharmaceutical Microbiology and Biotechnology Dep, Nigeria Univ, Enugu State, Nigeria, Email: chinelo.eze@unn.edu.ng.) : Malaria parasite clearance rate of crude methanol extract of Cryptolepis sanguinolenta in mice infected with chloroquine sensitive strain of Plasmodium berghei. J Med Plants Res 2018, 12(25), 396-403.

This study aims to determine the malaria parasite clearance rate of crude methanol extract of Cryptolepis sanguinolenta in mice infected with chloroquine sensitive strain of Plasmodium berghei. P. berghei was injected in mice and left for 3 days for establishment. Blood sample collected and diluted with phosphate buffer saline was used for infection. Five (5) groups of animals (mice) were used in this study each containing 5 animals each. The body weights of the entire animal were recorded before and after treatment. Group 1 (normal control), Group 2 (positive control, untreated malaria-passaged mice), Group 3 (standard control, malaria -passaged mice treated with 25 mg/kg body weight of chloroquine), Group 4 (malaria-passaged mice treated with 200 mg/kg body weight of extract), and Group 5 (malaria-passaged mice treated with 400 mg/kg body weight of extract). Hematological assessments were carried out before the experiment, 5 days after infection and after treatment. The percentage of parasite load in malaria passaged mice was found to be significantly (p < 0.05) lower in animals treated with mid and high doses of the extract when compared to control groups. Before treatment, no significant (p > 0.05) elevation was observed in the body weight of mice. On day 5 after infection, dose-dependent significant (p < 0.05) decrease was observed in the test groups. After treatment period, the body weights of the animals exhibited dose-dependent increase. The study thus revealed that Cryptolepis sanguinolenta root extracts possesses antimalarial activity in the in vivo mice model and has the ability of re-establishing the blood cells by boosting and stabilizing the blood parameters.

3 illus, 21 ref

028912   CIRNE -SANTOS C C, BARROS C D S, NOGUEIRA C C R, AMORIM L D S C, CAMPOS R D M, RATCLIFFE N A, TEIXEIRA V L, FERREIRA D F, PAIXAO I C N D P (de Biologia Celular e Molecular Dep, Federal Fluminense 24020-141 Univ, Brasil, Email: izabeluff@gmail.com) : Antiviral effect of the seaweed Osmundaria obtusiloba against the Zika virus. J Med Plants Res 2018, 12(25), 387-95.

Zika virus (ZIKV), a mosquito-borne member of the family Flaviviridae, is a human pathogen of global significance. Recently, ZIKV, has become a public health problem with increases in numbers of cases and a strong association between ZIKV outbreaks and the spread of cases of Guillain-Barré Syndrome and microcephaly. In this study, the extracts of the seaweed Osmundaria obtusiloba (O. obtusiloba) (native to the Brazilian coast) against ZIKV using Vero cells was evaluated. The seaweed extract tested inhibited ZIKV replication in a dose-dependent manner at low concentrations with EC50 values of 1.82 μg/mL and a selective index (SI) of 288. Other results showed that this extract had significant virucidal effects. In addition, when the extract and Ribavirin were used concomitantly there was a significant synergistic effect. Our promising results suggest that extracts of O. obtusiloba are excellent candidates for further studies, and that marine algae are potentially important sources for the development of novel anti-ZIKV agents.

4 illus, 1 table, 47 ref

028954   KOMOLAFE OMOBOLA A, OFUSORI DAVID A, ODUKOYA SAMSON A, SAKA OLUSOLA S, ARAYOMBO BABATUNDE E (Anatomy and Cell Biology Dep, Obafemi Awolowo Univ, Osun-State, Nigeria, Email: bkomolaf@yahoo.com) : A comparative study of the histopathological modifications of adrenal gland in STZ-induced diabetic Wistar rats administered with selected herbal plants versus Glimepiride. J Med Plants Res 2018, 12(23), 353-8.

This study investigated the comparative study of four herbal extract versus Glimepiride on the histomorphological modification of adrenal gland in STZ induced diabetic rats with a view to understanding their antidiabetic properties. Forty- two healthy adult Wistar rats (Rattus novergicus) with an average weight of 153.4 g were randomly divided into seven groups (n=6). STZ (65 mg/kg) dissolved in citrate buffer was administered intraperitoneally to animals in groups B to G while animals in group A received equivalent volume of citrate buffer. Plant extracts (100 mg/kg) were administered daily (orally) to animals in groups C to F and glimepiride (anti-diabetic drug) to animals in group G for 14 days. After the expiration of the study, the animals were sacrificed and the adrenal gland was excised, fixed in 10 % formol saline for histology and morphometric analysis. Result showed that body weights of diabetic rats significantly decreased when compared with control and other groups. Also, adrenal weight, and thickness of the cortex were significantly increased (P < 0.05) in diabetic rats compared with control and other groups. Also, thickness in medulla of adrenal gland of group B was decreased significantly (p < 0.05) when compared with control and other groups. The histology and morphometric analysis revealed that the adrenal gland in the group treated with Citrullus lanatus seed shaft showed a better histoarchitectural outline of all the four plant extracts used. This study suggested that C. lanatus seed shaft could be a better alternative therapy in ameliorating diabetic-associated disorders of the adrenal gland.

1 illus, 2 tables, 26 ref

028878   AHUI J-L D S, N’DR J K, F. EDOUKOU E, G. YEO J (Nangui Abrogoua Univ, 02 BP 801 Abidjan 02, Email: ahuidieudonne@gmail.com) : Impact of Oil palm (Elaeis guineensis Jacq.) plantations, environmental conditions and time on soil mite communities structure of La Mé station, Côte d’Ivoire. J Appl Biosci 2018, 129, 13088 - 107.

The study undertaken in La Mé station consisted to evaluate the different modifications of soil mite communities structure observed across the Oil palm chronosequence. In practice, four land use types were selected (secondary forest, 13-, 20-, and 39- year-old Oil palm plantations), where each land use type was replicated three time. The soil cores (0-10 cm, soil depth) for mite’s extraction were taken during the wet period with a steel corer (Ø 5 cm) following a 50 m transect. Five soil cores were taken per transect, whether a total of 60 soil cores for the 12 sampling areas. The results showed that the mites density (-88 % and -48 %), species richness (-64 % and -21 %), and diversity (-64 % and -8 %) decreased, respectively, 13 years and 39 years after the secondary forest conversion into Oil palm plantations. In total, 68 species of mites were recorded through the land use types. The relative abundance of Oribatida increased with the increasing age of the Oil palm plantations whereas the reverse trend is observed with the Gamasida. The rare species and eudominant species characterized the secondary forest, while the dominant and subdominant species preponderate in 13-, 20-, and 39-year-old Oil palm plantations. The study indicates a high dissemblance in specific composition of the mite communities across the Oil palm chronosequence. The forest ecosystem is more favorable to the development of mites ; however, a trend towards recolonization of the plantations would be more important with the aging of the Oil palm plantations. After 39 years of secondary forest conversion into Oil palm plantations, the process of soil quality restoration did not favor a significant change in soil biological components. Nevertheless, this investigation highlights an improvement in the soil biological quality over time, and characterized by an increase in the density of mites (+336 %), species richness (+121 %) and diversity (+153 %), respectively, in the 39-year-old plantations compared to the 13-year-old plantations.

4 illus, 7 tables, 51 ref

028914   DAGNOGO K, COULIBALY A, KABA S, KALLO V, DONGO A C, SORO K, BIEGO G M H, DATTE J, DEMBELE A (Peleforo Gon COULIBALY Korhogo Univ, BP 1328 Korhogo-Côte d'Ivoire, Email: coulad3@yahoo.fr) : Determination of contamination level and intake of tylosin residues (macrolides) of the consumption eggs in Abidjan district (Côte d'Ivoire). J Appl Biosci 2018, 129, 13067 - 74.

This study aims to determine the contamination level of tylosin residues of the consumption eggs (n = 54) collected on 3 markets of Abidjan District (Abobo, Adjamé and Treichville) and the health risks incurred by the adult Ivorian. The tylosins were extracted and purified on a Bond Eut C18 cartridge and assayed by High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC). The tylosins concentrations determined ranged from 0.030 µg / kg to 118.956 µg / kg for tylosins A, B, C and D with 268.780 µg / kg for total tylosins. The tylosins A and C were detected and quantified at Adjamé, tylosin B at Abobo and Adjamé, while tylosin D was detected in the 3 communes visited (Abobo, Adjamé and Treichville). In addition, 2 to 13 % of the samples are non-compliant with the European standard for tylosins A, B, C and D and 26 % for total tylosins. However, reports of the estimated intakes and the Admissible Daily Intake (ADI), issued by the FAO / WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives, range from 0.000 to 0.020. These safety ratios are less than 1, the health risk associated with ingestion of tylosin in consumption eggs is considered negligible. These results are essential for improving the safety of food of animal origin made available to the consumer in Abidjan District.

3 tables, 30 ref

028953   KIENDREBEOGO T, LOGTÉNÉ Y M, KABORÉZOUNGRANA C-Y (Centre National de la recherche Scientifique et Technologique/Institut, Bobo-Dioulasso (Burkina Faso), Email: timbilfou@gmail.com) : Effect of mango feed rations on the growth performance and carcass quality of Korhogo pigs in Burkina Faso.. J Appl Biosci 2018, 129, 13039-49.

The purpose of the study was to evaluate the effects of the use of mango feed rations on growth performance and carcass quality of growing pigs (25-60kg). Two mango diets (R1 and R2) and a control (R3) were served to 3 batches of 8 pigs each. At the end of the trial 2 pigs / lot were slaughtered to assess the quality of the carcasses. The Daily Weight Gain (DWG) of R3 (459 ± 62g) was significantly higher than those of R1 were (399 ± 81g) and R2 (412 ± 81g) (p < 0.05). The R3 CI (1.9 ± 0.4) was significantly < at R1 (2.5 ± 0.5) and R2 (2.6 ± 06) (p < 0.05). Carcass yields of R1 (83.4 %) and R2 (77.6 %) were higher than that of R3 (76 %). The fat content of R3 (32.8 %) was higher than those of R1 were (30 %) and R2 (31.7 %). The study showed the possible use of mango feed to substitute maize. This opens up prospects for increasing the availability of food and thus less competition between humans and animals. It has also shown the tendency of mango diets to produce lean meat; which is very popular to consumers. Feed and food formulas incorporating mango waste may be proposed for the feeding of pigs hence improving the productivity of livestock, the quality of carcasses and the income of farmers. Further studies on a digestibility of feed and the better diets will be needed to refine the recommendations of use to breeders.

1 illus, 5 tables, 35 ref

028929   GANDA H, TOGBE E C, HOUNDÉTÉ T A, BOUKARI E T Z, GOGAN M, DAGBÉNONBAKIN G D, KOSSOU D K (Abomey-Calavi Univ, 03 BP 2819 Cotonou, Republic of Benin, Email: gandahaffiz@gmail.com) : Effectiveness of neem seed oil (Azadirachta indica A. Juss: Meliaceae) on Syllepte derogata Fabricius, lepidoptera: Pyralidae. J Appl Biosci 2018, 129, 13029 -38.

Synthetic insecticides have long been used for cotton protection, resulting in pest resistance, toxicity and environmental pollution. Biopesticides have been suggested as alternatives to synthetic pesticides. Both field and laboratory experiments were conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of neem oil in controlling Syllepte derogata (Fabricius), a cotton phyllophagous pest. In the field trials, effect of neem oil was compared to that of conventional insecticides; while in the laboratory direct larval immersion and leaf dip method using EMA SUPER 56DC and neem oil were tested. Decrease in damage by S. derogata for about 63 and 86 % was recorded with neem oil and synthetic insecticides. In the laboratory, the mortality of S. derogata after 24 hours exposure to neem oil and Ema Super was significantly higher (2.5 to 100 %) than that of the control. The mortality of larvae of S. derogata was positively correlated with the concentration of neem oil and exposure time. Lethal Concentration (LC50) after 24 hours exposure of larvae was respectively 4.03 104 ml/l and 51.13 ml/l for leaf dipping method and larval immersion. Overall, these results showed the efficacy of neem oil in controlling S. derogata, as a biopesticide. This oil could also constitute a successful alternative to synthetic pesticides. However, the effectiveness of neem oil appeared to be weakened by the rapid degradation of the active substances, azadirachtin in particular. Indeed, azadirachtin, the main active ingredient of neem is photo and heat labile. It easily degrades under high solar radiations and high temperatures, hence the need for stabilization.

5 tables, 28 ref

028924   ELISEE A L D G, ALEX P G, BRAHIMA C, ALEXIS L N, DAOUDA K (Félix Houphouët-Boigny d’Abidjan (UFHB) Univ, 22 BP 582 Abidjan 22, Côte d’Ivoire, Email: amariler@yahoo.fr) : Characterization and assessment of the phytotoxicity of culture filtrates of Mycosphaerella fijiensis strains from the main areas of banana production in Côte d'Ivoire.. J Appl Biosci 2018, 129, 13015 -28.

This study was conducted to investigate the production of toxins by Ivorian strains of M. fijiensis, and to study their involvement in the development of banana black leaf streak disease (BLSD) caused by this fungus. It consisted in determining the diversity of the metabolites produced by these fungal isolates and in evaluating the phytotoxity of their culture filtrates on the leaves of the banana varieties presenting in the field a variable behavior to the BLSD. To carry out this study, a physico-chemical characterization of the culture filtrates of M. fijiensis strains was carried out. This analysis revealed three main groups of secondary metabolites: saponins, sterols and terpenes and alkaloids. The necrosis induction test was carried out to determine the phytotoxic activity of the filtrates after their infiltration into the banana leaf limb. The results showed that after 48 hours, only certain filtrates from the fungus cultures could induce necrosis in the leaves of banana varieties. The variety partially resistant to the BLSD (FHIA 23) proved to be the most resistant to the toxicity of the culture filtrates unlike the very resistant (Calcultta 4) and susceptible (Grande Naine) varieties to the disease. Mycosphaerella fijiensis strains from Côte d'Ivoire are capable of producing toxic metabolites for banana. These toxins contribute to the development of foliar necrosis in banana and are at least involved in the extension of these symptoms and can therefore be a simple tool for rapid assessment of the resistance of banana varieties to BLSD. A probable circumvention of the total resistance of Calcutta 4 can be considered in this banana variety by M. fijiensis.

3 illus, 4 tables, 24 ref

028935   GROGA N, DIOMANDE M, BEUGRE G A M, OUATTARA Y AKAFFOU D S (ean Lorougnon Guède Daloa Côte d’Ivoire Univ, GROGA Noel1 BP 150 Daloa, Email: groga7@yahoo.fr) : Study of the quality of the symbiosis of green algae (Anabaena azollae, Azolla caroliniana), compost and NPK on vegetative growth and tomato yield in Daloa (Côte d'Ivoire). J Appl Biosci 2018, 129, 13004 -14.

The present study aims to compare the fertilizing quality of green algae (Azolla caroliniana), compost and NPK applied to tomato in the Daloa area (Côte d'Ivoire). The parameters evaluated are the vegetative growth and yield of these tomatoes.The trial is performed as a randomized, complete block of four treatments (Azolla caroliniana, compost, NPK and Control) in four replicates. Data are collected on the vegetative cycle of crops. The treatments were compared according to the vegetative parameters : stem height (ht), neck diameter (dc), leaf length (lf) and yield (r). Except NPK treatments received 200 kg/ha for NPK and 100 kg/ha for urea, treatments are fertilized at the same manure rate (30 t/ha). The results indicate Azolla caroliniana statically differ. The average of (ht) is 49.37 ± 0.55 cm with Azolla caroliniana against 37 ± 1 cm for NPK, 34.57 ± 2.2 for compost and 22.95 ± 0.24 for control, except the growth of (dc) where the smallest difference was not significant. (Dc) is 0.71 ± 0.08; against 0.57 ± 0.03 for NPK, 0.55 ± 0.08 for compost and 0.42 ± 0.07 for the control. Yield was high with Azolla caroliniana (26.13 ± 0.86 t/ha tomato) at a density of 37500 plants/ha. This study shows that Azolla caroliniana gives a high yield with a high density, restores good soil fertility and increases the productivity of the tomato crop.

6 illus, 1 table, 36 ref

028990   RANJITH D, SENTHIL MURUGAN S, NISHA A R, MUHSINA RAHMAN M, SIVAN V V, JULIET S (Veterinary Pharmacology and Toxicology Dep, Veterinary and Animal Sciences Coll, Wayanad, Kerala) : Standardization of herbal formulation for mastitis in Animals. Int J Herb Med 2018, 6(5), 14-21.

Standardization of herbal formulation is essential in order to assess the quality of drugs for therapeutic value based on the concentration of their active principles. In the present study herbal formulation containing rhizomes of Curcuma longa and leaves of Diploclisia glaucescens were standardized according to the set guidelines from world health organization. The parameter considered were organoleptic, physicochemical, pH range, fluorescence analysis, swelling and foaming index, preliminary phytochemical analysis, heavy metal testing and acute oral toxicity studies of the formulations. The results indicated, all the pharmacognostic parameters were as per the limit set by world health organization and the formulation showed maximum phytocon students. Upon oral toxicity, the extract shown to be safer at 2000 mg/kg body weight both in terms of haematological, biochemical parameters. In conclusion, these data of herbal formulation can be used as reference monographs for further detailed study of pharmacological activity.

1 illus, 10 tables, 58 ref

028981   PATCHING S G (Leeds Univ, Leeds, UK, Email: s.g.patching@leeds.ac.uk) : Recent developments in nucleobase cation symporter-1 (NCS1) family transport proteins from bacteria, archaea, fungi and plants. J Biosci 2018, 43(4), 797–815.

The nucleobase cation symporter-1 (NCS1) family of secondary active transport proteins comprises over 2500 sequenced members from bacteria, archaea, fungi and plants. NCS1 proteins use a proton or sodium gradient to drive inward cellular transport of purine and pyrimidine nucleobases and nucleosides, hydantoins and related compounds. The structural organization, substrate binding residues and molecular mechanism of NCS1 proteins are defined by crystal structures of sodium-coupled hydantoin transporter, Mhp1. Plant proteins are most closely related to bacterial/archaeal proteins and the distinct Fur-type and Fcy-type fungal proteins and plant proteins originated through independent horizontal transfers from prokaryotes. Analyses of 25 experimentally characterized proteins reveal high substrate specificity in bacterial proteins, distinct non-overlapping specificities in Fur-type and Fcy-type fungal proteins and broad specificity in plant proteins. Possible structural explanations are identified for differences in substrate specificity between bacterial proteins, whilst specificities of other proteins cannot be predicted by simple sequence comparisons. Specificity appears to be species specific and determined by combinations of effects dictated by multiple residues in the major substrate binding site and gating domains. This is an exploratory research review of evolutionary relationships, function and structural organization, molecular mechanism and origins of substrate specificity in NCS1 proteins and avenues of future direction.

4 illus, 9 tables, 74 ref

028955   KOWALSKI A (Biochemistry and Genetics Dep, Jan Kochanowski Univ, Kielce, Poland, Email: a.kowalski@ujk.edu.pl) : Significance of avian linker histone (H1) polymorphic variation. J Biosci 2018, 43(4), 751–61.

Most of avian histone H1 non-allelic subtypes, i.e. eight out of nine, show polymorphic heterogeneity manifested by the presence of two or three allelic variants formed as a result of amino acid deletion and substitution. In addition, some of histone H1 non-allelic subtypes exhibit various allelic complements in different bird species leading to the widening of a whole pool of histone H1 polymorphic variation. A wide range of histone H1 heterogeneity may indicate that the polymorphic variants can individually modulate some histone H1-dependent cellular processes by showing allele-specific influence on chromatin organization and function. Although, the exact way of avian histone H1 allelic variants’ activity is not known, their structural separateness inferred from biochemical experiments and relationship with some characteristics of organism functioning disclosed in the genetic studies seem to confirm their importance. The aim of this review is to characterize the molecular origin of histone H1 polymorphisms and draw attention to the link between the histone H1 polymorphic variants and avian organismal features related to the physiological effects of bird individuals’ living in the natural and breeding populations.

4 illus, 2 tables, 68 ref

028936   GUPTA A, SUGADEV R, SHARMA Y K, AHMAD Y, KHURANA P (Defence Institute of Physiology and Allied Sciences (DIPAS), Delhi - 110 054, Email: pankajkhurana222@gmail.com) : Role of miRNAs in hypoxia-related disorders. J Biosci 2018, 43(4), 739–49.

Hypoxia is a complex pathophysiological condition. The physiological and molecular responses to this stress have been extensively studied. However, the management of its ill effects still poses a challenge to clinicians. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are short non-coding RNA molecules that control post-transcriptional gene expression. The regulatory role of miRNAs in hypoxic environments has been studied in many hypoxia-related disorders, however a comprehensive compilation and analysis of all data and the significance of miRNAs in hypoxia adaption is still lacking. This review summarizes the miRNAs related to various hypoxia-related disorders and highlights the computational approaches to study them. This would help in designing novel strategies toward efficient management of hypoxia-related disorders.

4 illus, 1 table, 79 ref

028894   ARORA A, MAJHI S, MISHRA A (Indian Institute of Technology Gandhinagar, Gandhinagar, Gujarat - 382 355, Email: amishra@iitgn.ac.in) : Antibacterial properties of human beta defensin-3 derivative: CHRG01. J Biosci 2018, 43(4), 707–15.

Antibiotic resistance in bacteria is a major health concern. Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are a class of peptides that are efficient in killing most microbes yet development of resistance to AMPs is rare. However, complex secondary and tertiary structures and difficulties in isolating AMPs have limited their use as antibiotics. It has been demonstrated earlier that small peptides derived from human b defensin-3 (HBD-3) also show antibacterial activity. Here, we perform a detailed characterization of the antibacterial activity of one such derivative: CHRG01. While HBD-3 has 45 amino acids with three disulphide bonds and a b-sheet folded structure, CHRG01 has only 14 amino acids with the cysteine residues replaced by serine. The antibacterial nature of CHRG01 was studied using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), confocal microscopy, circular dichroism (CD) and small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS). CD data show that CHRG01 is random coiled in solution. SEM and confocal studies show that the mode of action of CHRG01 is pore forming. SAXS studies show that CHRG01 induces a negative Gaussian curvature, the type of curvature needed for pore formation. The above results show that CHRG01, a small peptide without any complex structure, is capable of killing bacteria by permeabilizing their outer membranes.

6 illus, 31 ref

029001   SHUKLA S, PILLAI A N, RAHAMAN A (National Institute of Science Education and Research (NISER), Odisha - 752 050, Email: arahaman@niser.ac.in) : A putative NEM1 homologue regulates lipid droplet biogenesis via PAH1 in Tetrahymena thermophila. J Biosci 2018, 43(4), 693–706.

Nuclear envelope morphology protein 1 (NEM1) along with a phosphatidate phosphatase (PAH1) regulates lipid homeostasis and membrane biogenesis in yeast and mammals. We investigated four putative NEM1 homologues (TtNEM1A, TtNEM1B, TtNEM1C and TtNEM1D) in the Tetrahymena thermophila genome. Disruption of TtNEM1B, TtNEM1C or TtNEM1D did not compromise normal cell growth. In contrast, we were unable to generate knockout strain of TtNEM1A under the same conditions, indicating that TtNEM1A is essential for Tetrahymena growth. Interestingly, loss of TtNEM1B but not TtNEM1C or TtNEM1D caused a reduction in lipid droplet number. Similar to yeast and mammals, TtNem1B of Tetrahymena exerts its function via Pah1, since we found that PAH1 overexpression rescued loss of Nem1 function. However, unlike NEM1 in other organisms, TtNEM1B does not regulate ER/nuclear morphology. Similarly, neither TtNEM1C nor TtNEM1D is required to maintain normal ER morphology. While Tetrahymena PAH1 was shown to functionally replace yeast PAH1 earlier, we observed that Tetrahymena NEM1 homologues did not functionally replace yeast NEM1. Overall, our results suggest the presence of a conserved cascade for regulation of lipid homeostasis and membrane biogenesis in Tetrahymena. Our results also suggest a Nem1-independent function of Pah1 in the regulation of ER morphology in Tetrahymena.

7 illus, 1 table, 46 ref

028931   GHOSH U, ADHYA S (CSIR-Indian Institute of Chemical Biology, Kolkata - 700 032, Email: nilugrandson@gmail.com) : Posttranscriptional regulation of cyclin D1 by ARE-binding proteins AUF1 and HuR in cycling myoblasts. J Biosci 2018, 43(4), 685–91.

RNA binding proteins (RBPs) can regulate the stability and/or translatability of messenger RNAs (mRNAs) through interactions with their 30 -untranslated regions. However, individual mRNAs may be regulated simultaneously or successively by more than one RBP, as well as by Argonaute (AGO)-bound miRNAs; the coordination of these various influences on an individual mRNA is therefore complex and not well studied. In this report we examine the roles of two RBPs that bind to AU-rich elements (ARE) – AUF1 and HuR – in the stability and translation of cyclin D1 (Ccnd1) mRNA in rat myoblasts transiting the G phase of the cell cycle, and their interactions with miRNAs. Knockdown (KD) of AUF1 resulted in (1) transient upregulation of the mRNA level as well as an advancement of translation onset time (TOT) from 6 to 5 h post-serum addition, (2) loss of miRNA loading on AGO1 and AGO2 and (3) reduction in the level of AGO-1 and AGO-2 bound mRNA. In contrast, KD of HuR had no effect on the mRNA level, or on the AGO–mRNA complexes, but delayed TOT by 1 h independent of miRNA let-7. Thus the dynamics of RBP–mRNA binding and –RBP–AGO–miRNA interactions are coordinated to fine tune the expression of Ccnd1 in the G1 phase.

4 illus, 4 tables, 14 ref

028947   JI H, GUO J, YANG Y, XU C, MAO W (Nanjing Normal Univ, Nanjing 210046, People’s Republic of China, Email: 141202035@stu.njnu.edu.cn) : Construction, expression and functional analysis of anti-B7-H4- scFv-CH3 recombinant antibody. J Biosci 2018, 43(4), 661–71.

The B7-H4 molecule, a unique negative regulator of T lymphocytes which is overexpressed on the surface of various tumor cells, is a particularly important target candidate for tumor therapy because it can be blocked with anti-B7-H4 antibodies to inhibit the B7-H4 signaling pathway. Our previous work established an anti-B7-H4 single-chain variable fragment (scFv) library, so we have now amplified the genes encoding anti-B7-H4-scFv and human IgG1 CH3 and ligated them by overlap extension PCR to obtain a recombinant gene. After sequencing, the gene was cloned into the expression vector pET43.1a and expression was induced in E. coli BL21 (DE3) by isopropyl-b-D-1-thiogalactopyranoside (IPTG). The protein was purified on a nickel-nitrilotriacetic acid (Ni-NTA) resin column and its antigen specificity and affinity were examined by ELISA and western blotting. We also established a Lewis lung cancer model in C57BL/6 mice to further identify the biological function of the scFv protein in vivo. The results showed that tumor volume, body weight and necrotic tissues in the control group were significantly greater than in the experimental group, indicating that selected scFvs had good biological activity and could inhibit tumor growth in tumor-bearing mice. Our work thus offers a new approach for the development of cancer-targeted therapy.

6 illus, 3 tables, 28 ref

028893   ANJUM M S, MEHMOOD A, MAHMOOD F, ALI M, TARRAR M N, KHAN S N, RIAZUDDIN S (Shaheed Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto Medical Univ, Islamabad, Pakistan, Email: riazuddin@aimrc.org) : In vitro preconditioning of insulin-producing cells with growth factors improves their survival and ability to release insulin. J Biosci 2018, 43(4), 649–59.

Glucose-induced oxidative stress in the diabetic pancreas directly affects viability and the consequent therapeutic outcome of transplanted stem cells. Pretreatment of stem cells with growth factors induces tolerance in them against various stresses (hypoxia, thermal or hyperglycaemic). This study investigated the effect of pretreatment on insulin-producing cells (IPCs) differentiated from adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (ADMSCs), with a combination of stromal cell-derived factor 1 alpha (SDF1a) and basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) against hyperglycaemic stress (17 or 33 mM glucose). The results showed that IPCs pretreated with a combination of SDF1a and bFGF exhibited maximally alleviated apoptosis, senescence and cell damage with a concomitantly increased release of insulin, enhanced cell proliferation and greater upregulation of Insulin 1, Insulin 2, Ngn3, Pdx1 and Nkx6.2 when stressed with 33 mM glucose. These findings may offer an improved therapeutic outcome for the treatment of diabetes.

6 illus, 1 table, 40 ref

028927   FAGBOHUN O A, OMOBOWALE T O (Veterinary Microbiology Dep, Ibadan Univ, Ibadan, Nigeria, Email: oa.fagbohun@ui.edu.ng) : Sequence and phylogenetic analysis of Canine parvovirus-2 isolates in dogs revealed circulation of three subtypes in Nigeria. Virusdisease 2018, 29(3), 411–5.

Canine parvovirus-2 (CPV-2) is the most common viral cause of gastroenteritis in puppies in Nigeria and worldwide. After its emergence in 1978, the wild-type CPV-2 was rapidly replaced by three antigenic subtypes CPV-2a, CPV-2b and CPV-2c. Subtype CPV-2a has been reported in Nigeria based on limited number of samples. As such, this study was carried out with 56 faecal samples and four CPV-2 vaccines using polymerase chain reaction and sequencing to have a better idea of CPV-2 subtypes circulating in dogs in Nigeria. 54 (96.4 %) out of the 56 samples were positive for CPV-2 subtypes. CPV-2a is the predominant subtype followed by CPV-2b and CPV-2c. Also, co-existence of subtypes CPV-2a and CPV-2b; and CPV-2a and CPV-2c were found in some dogs. Sequence analysis revealed the occurrence of three mutations D413 N, N426D/E, and T440A. To our knowledge, this is the first report of the three subtypes of CPV-2 in Nigeria.

2 illus, 1 table, 18 ref

028974   MOUSAVI F S, GHALYANCHILANGEROUDI A, HOSSEINI H, FASAEI B N, GHAFOURI S A, ABDOLLAHI H, FALLAH-MEHRABADI M H, SADRI N (Microbiology and Immunology Dep, Tehran Univ, Tehran, Iran, Email: arashghalyanchi@gmail.com) : Complete genome analysis of Iranian IS-1494 like avian infectious bronchitis virus. Virusdisease 2018, 29(3), 390–4.

The nephropathogenic infectious bronchitis virus (IBV) strain IS-1494 like (variant-2; GI-23) was first isolated in the Middle East (1998). Despite intensive vaccinations, IS-1494 like IBVs are still circulating in Iran (the dominant genotype) and spread to other countries. Here, the full-length genome of this Iranian IS-1494 like IBV was (Mahed) determined to understand its evolutionary relationships. The genome consists of 27,652 nucleotides, with mutations in most of the structural genes. Thirteen open reading frames (ORFs) were predicted in the Mahed isolate (50 UTR-1a-1b-S-3a-3b-E-M-4b-4c-5a-5b-N-6b-30 UTR). ORFs 4b, 4c, and 6b, which has rarely been reported, were present in the Mahed genome. According to phylogenetic analysis of the full-length genome, 1a, S2, M, E, N protein, Mahed isolate clustered with the QX type strain. Based on the partial 1b, S1, Mahed clustered with the Q1 strain. The full-length genome of Mahed isolate shared the highest sequence homology with Gray and JMK (90.06–90.07 %) and was least related to the Vic-s (86.21%). These data show that evolutionary variation because of recombination in IBV plays a major role in the adaptation and origin of IBV leading to new genetic and types of the virus strain.

1 illus, 1 table, 23 ref

028900   BANERJEE N, SAHA B, MUKHOPADHYAY S (Laboratory Medicine Dep, School of Tropical Medicine, Kolkata - 700 073, Email: drsumimukhopadhyay@gmail.com) : Intracellular ROS generated in chikungunya patients with persisting polyarthralgia can be reduced by Tinospora cordifolia leaf extract. Virusdisease 2018, 29(3), 375–9.

Chikungunya (CHIK) is an arboviral infection having huge global burden affecting the life style of the patient badly due to debilitating polyarthralgia. This study aims to evaluate intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) in peripheral blood of patients suffering with persisting polyarthralgia post CHIK infection and the potential of Tinospora cordifolia leaf extract in scavenging those free radicals in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) of the patient. Peripheral blood was collected from written informed consented patients and intracellular ROS was measured in PBMC of patients suffering with persisting polyarthralgia 3 months post CHIK infection followed by the study of free radical scavenging by T. cordifolia leaf extract in those cells through flow cytometry. Control population comprising healthy donors were also included in the study. As compared to healthy subjects, twofold higher Intracellular ROS (17.89 ± 1.007 vs. 37.96 ± 1.510, P < 0.0001) was found in patient PBMC. Ex-vivo treatment of those PBMC with ethanolic extract of T. cordifolia leaf (1 μg/mL) decreased intracellular ROS significantly by twofold (P < 0.0001). This study reports that CHIK infection produces high level of intracellular ROS in the patients suffering with persisting polyarthralgia, which was significantly scavenged by ex vivo treatment with T. cordifolia leaf extract.

2 illus, 1 table, 18 ref

028916   DAULAGALA S W P L, NOORDEEN F (Microbiology Dep, Peradeniya Univ, Peradeniya, Sri Lanka, Email: faseehan@pdn.ac.lk) : Epidemiology and factors influencing Varicella infections in tropical countries including Sri Lanka. Virusdisease 2018, 29(3), 277–84.

Varicella zoster virus (VZV) infections occur worldwide but the epidemiology differs between different geographical regions. Epidemiology of varicella is partly understood in tropical and subtropical regions. Various hypotheses showing differences in exposure rates in different age groups have been proposed. Exposure to VZV during late childhood or adolescent stage causes high morbidity, especially in high school children, university students and young work force in tropical nations. Exposure to VZV infection or sero-prevalence rates through anti-VZV immunoglobulin G appears to be lower in Sri Lanka, similar to other tropical countries prior to the millennium. In contrast, a more recent study in a group of antenatal women showed a relatively higher exposure rate to VZV when compared to the exposure rates prior to 2004 in Sri Lanka. Climatic factors, socioeconomic conditions, mobility and cultural practices appear to play a role in the differences in the exposure rates to VZV infection in the tropics. In most tropical Asian countries including Sri Lanka, routine vaccination against varicella is not carried out. Individuals with negative history for varicella take the vaccine when there is a necessity. Medical and nursing students take the vaccine prior to their clinical training to avoid adulthood varicella.

2 illus, 1 table, 59 ref

028969   MISHRA S, JAIN P A, MISHRA R R (Computational Biology & Bioinformatics Dep, Sam Higginbottom Univ of Agriculture, Uttar Pradesh) : Development of PCR assay for identification of Staphylococcus aureus and their enterotoxins from spoiled food samples. J Pharmacogn Phytochem 2018, 7(5), 122-6.

Food-borne diseases due to microbial pathogens, have become a major issue of concern as they represent serious threat to the health of millions of people world - wide. Serious outbreaks of food borne disease have been documented on every continent in the past decades, illustrating both the public health and social significance of these diseases. Food Contamination is of major health hazards in India leading to food poisoning. The food borne diseases due to food contamination or spoilage is one of the important problems to be addressed. Staphylococcus aureus has been found to be one of the major cause of food poisoning among all the other food pathogens. S. aureus produces very important virulence factors including Staphylococcus enterotoxins (SEs) which are the main causes of diarrhoea, vomiting and other symptoms associated with food poisoning. Therefore to minimize infection in food and water, the etiological agents and harmful toxins produced by them must be identified. Early identification will be helpful in minimizing food borne infections which helps in the prevention of diarrheal diseases. The conventional methods used for identification of S. aureus are limited to their Biological characterization only that are not only time consuming rather have limited reliability. Currently the molecular techniques based on PCR amplification of 16S rRNA of S. aureus for rapid and specific detection is widely used approach. This study focuses on rapid detection of S. aureus strains obtained from various food samples by development of a specific PCR Assay including a novel primer set and standardized PCR Conditions. A multiplex PCR assay has also been developed for specific Staphylococcal enterotoxins genes (SEA, SEB, SEC, SED, and SEE) produced by different isolates. Out of the 59 isolates of Staphylococcus aureus obtained from various food samples, found positive for enterotoxin infection, 15, 21, 6, 12 and 5 were found to be producing SEA, SEB, SEC, SED and SEE respectively further employing that these strains were capable of producing only one type of enterotoxin. The developed multiplex polymerase chain reaction assays will be useful for rapid detection of S. aureus and respective enterotoxins being produced from foods, clinical samples and environmental surveys. This may lead to early diagnosis of infection and help in timely prophylaxis.

1 illus, 5 tables, 11 ref

028920   DINESH KUMAR G, KARTHIK M, RAJAKUMAR R (Zoology and Biotechnology Dep, A.V.V.M. Sri Pushpam Coll (Autonomous), Tamil Nadu) : In-silico antibacterial activity of active phytocompounds from the ethanolic leaves extract of Eichhornia crassipes (Mart) Solms. against selected target pathogen Pseudomonas fluorescens. J Pharmacogn Phytochem 2018, 7(5), 12-5.

The computational drug designing is the principal streamline to evaluate the affinity of small molecules toward specific targets that unveils a potential to disparage the consumption of time in industries with the combination of computational, biological and chemical knowledge. In-silico approaches in drug development play a key role to reconnoitre molecular aspects of targeting specific proteins through various tools and softwares, and analyzing the bioactivities and inhibitory effects across mechanisms underlying for treatment of several chronic diseases. The main aim of the study is to identify the phytocompounds with antibacterial properties from the ethanolic leaves extract of Eichhornia crassipes and also to find the inhibitors of AprX enzyme through molecular docking. GC-MS was performed for the ethanolic leaves extract of Eichhornia crassipes. Various phytochemical compounds were identified through GCMS. The identified compounds are 17-Pentatriacontene, Dibutyl phthalate, Octasiloxane, Stigmasterol and 1-Monolinoleoylglycerol trimethylsilyl ether. These compounds were in silico screened against AprX enzyme as a target protein for the antibacterial activity through docking studies. The binding energy is evaluated through docking studies of the ligand with the target protein. The interactions of the phytocompound with the amino acid residues of the AprX enzyme showed high affinity with in the active site binding pocket. These Phytochemical compounds have a high docking score and glide energy. Results of our study suggested that these phytochemical compounds can be considered as strong inhibitors for AprX enzyme and possess potential medicinal values with anti-microbial properties.

3 illus, 1 table, 15 ref

029004   TAEPONGSORAT L, PHANDUNGKIT M (Mahasarakham Univ, Mahasarakham 44000, Thailand, Email: ladachart20@yahoo.com) : Effects of Asparagus racemosus root extracts on serum lipid profiles, lipid peroxidation and superoxide dismutase in ovariectomized rat. Pharmacogn J 2018, 10(5), 1036-41.

Once rats have been ovariectomized they have a high risk of cardiovascular disease due to changes in the blood cholesterol and lipid profile. Objective of this study was to investigate the effects of Asparagus racemosus (AR) root extract on the serum lipid profiles, lipid peroxidation and antioxidant levels in ovariectomized rats. Twenty-five, two month-old female Wistar rats were randomly divided into five groups: SH, OVX,OEE, OAAR and OEAR. The daily doses of 500 mg/KgBW of the AR root extracts for five weeks.The levels of serum TG, TC, HDL, LDL, the liver, kidney and uterine tissue lipid peroxidation and SOD levels were determined. Serum TC and LDL showed no significant differences in any groups. Serum TG of the OAAR and OEAR groups were not significantly different. The serum HDL of the OAAR and OEAR groups were significantly lower than the OEE group. The liver MDA levels of the OAAR and OEAR groups were significantly decreased compared with the OVX and OEE groups while the SOD level of the OAAR group was significantly increased. The MDA levels in the kidney and uterine of the treated group showed no significant difference. The SOD levels in the kidney of the treated group were not different but the SOD levels in uterine were significantly decreased. It can be believed that the lipid profiles were maybe regulated via estrogen.The AR extract has low effects on the lipid profiles at this dose and duration of treatment. The capacity of the extracts to decrease the MDA level and increase the SOD level in this study clearly reflected the antioxidant efficiency of these substances.

4 tables, 56 ref

028895   ARSIANTI A, AZIZA Y A N , KURNIASARI K D , MANDASARI B K D, MASITA R, ZULFA F R, DEWI M K, ZAGLOEL C R Z, AZIZAH N N, PUTRIANINGSIH R (Medical Chemistry Dep, Indonesia Univ, INDONESIA, Email: arsi_ade2002@yahoo.com) : Phytochemical test and cytotoxic activity of macroalgae Eucheuma cottonii against cervical HeLa cells. Pharmacogn J 2018, 10(5), 1012-7.

Marine resource of macroalgae Eucheuma cottonii from East Lombok, Nusa Tenggara Barat, Indonesia, have potential as anti-cervical cancer agent. The objectives of this study were finding cytotoxic activity of Eucheuma cottonii hexane, ethylacetate, chloroform and ethanol extracts against cervical HeLa cells by MTT cell proliferation assay. The extracts were tested in phytochemical and cytotoxic activity test. Phytochemical test to identify composition of secondary metabolite such as flavonoid, alkaloid, saponins, tannin, triterpenoid, steroid and glycoside. The amount of substances contained in the extract sample was analyzed by Thin Layer Chromatography (TLC). Cytotoxic activity using HeLa cells. Phytochemical test of E. cottonii extracts showed the positive result for metabolite of flavonoid, whereas the TLC analysis revealed that the extracts containing five chemical compounds. Ethanol, n-hexane, chloroform, and ethyl acetate extracts of E. cottonii exhibited a strong cytotoxic activity against cervical HeLa cells with IC₅₀ of 7.54 μg/mL, 5.73 μg /mL, 4.82 μg /mL and 4.34 μg / mL, respectively. The results suggest that macroalgae Eucheuma cottonii could be used as a new anti-cervical cancer’s candidate.

3 illus, 3 tables, 20 ref

028919   DEWI MK, ARSIANTI A, ZAGLOEL C R Z, AZIZA Y A N, KURNIASARI K D, MANDASARI B K D, MASITA R, ZULFA F R, AZIZAH N N, PUTRIANINGSIH R (Indonesia Univ, Jalan Salemba Raya 6 Jakarta 10430, INDONESIA, Email: arsi_ade2002@yahoo.com) : In vitro evaluation of seaweed Gracilaria verrucosa for cytotoxic activity against cervical HeLa cells. Pharmacogn J 2018, 10(5), 1007-11.

Seaweed macroalgae of Gracilaria verrucosa has been known to have a potent anticancer activity, however the cytotoxicity against cervical cancer has not been explored further. This study aims to utilize Indonesia’s marine resource which is focused on seaweed macroalgae G. verrucosa as a future anti-cervical cancer agent. Seaweed G. verrucosa originated from Labuan Aji beach, Nusa Tenggara Barat, Indonesia, extracted, macerated, and fractionated into four organic solvents of different polarity, consisting of hexane, ethyl acetate, chloroform and ethanol. Then, the macroalgae extracts are diluted into 8 different concentrations. Afterwards, in vitro anticancer activity evaluation of hexane, ethyl acetate, chloroform and ethanol extracts of G. verrucosa against cervical HeLa cells were conducted by MTT cell proliferation assay. Triplo mechanism is also applied in this study to increase the accuracy of the results. The anticancer activity is measured using IC₅₀ value.The four concentrated extracts G. verrucosa showed cytotoxicity against cervical HeLa cells. The greatest anticancer activity is depicted by hexane extract with an IC₅₀ of 14.94 µg/mL, followed by chloroform (IC₅₀ 15.74 µg/mL), ethyl acetate (IC₅₀ 16.18 µg/mL), and ethanol (IC₅₀ 19.43 µg/mL). Our results clearly indicate that hexane, ethanol, chloroform, and ethyl acetate extracts of seaweed G. verrucosa can be further developed to be anti-cervical cancer agents, with hexane extract displaying the greatest cytotoxic effect.

2 illus, 3 tables, 20 ref

028977   NAINU F, ASRI R M, ARSYAD A, MANGGAU M A, AMIR M N (Hasanuddin Univ, INDONESIA, Email: firzannainu@unhas.ac.id) : In vivo antibacterial activity of green algae Ulva reticulata against Staphylococcus aureus in Drosophila model of infection. Pharmacogn J 2018, 10(5), 993-7.

Expansion of multi-drug resistant bacteria in social communities and health facilities has been widely reported. To overcome this ever-growing problem, new antibiotics with novel mechanisms of action are urgently required. This research was carried out aiming to investigate the in vivo antibacterial effect of green algae Ulva reticulata against Staphylococcus aureus in fruit flies (Drosophila melanogaster) model of infection.  Sample was dried and extracted with ethanol using maceration method. Wild type and mutant fruit flies were infected with S. aureus and subjected to survival and bacterial load analysis in the presence or absence of tetracycline or Ulva reticulata extract at different concentrations. All data were statistically analyzed. Infection of D. melanogaster with S. aureus was characterized by two notable trends: reduction of host survival and increasing level of bacterial growth in the host during the course of infection. Such events were further augmented in mutant flies lacking normal immune responses. Nonetheless, improved survival rates and reduction of bacterial load were observed in wild type and immunodeficient mutant flies challenged with S. aureus in the presence of either tetracycline or ethanolic extracts of green algae Ulva reticulata. Taken together, our results suggest that Ulva reticulata yielded antistaphylococcal activity in vivo thus would be a prospective source for harvesting wide spectrum antibacterial compounds.

4 illus, 35 ref

029007   WANNA C, SUDHADHAM M (Suan Sunandha Rajabhat Univ, Bangkok- 10300, Thailand, Email: chanate.wa@ssru.ac.th) : The effect of coconut water and boiling on antioxidant activity and total phenolic contents in Schizophyllum commune fr.. Pharmacogn J 2018, 10(5), 925-31.

Schizophyllum commune Fr., a split gill mushroom has been acknowledged for its medicinal properties. The present study was to evaluate the effect of coconut water and boiling on antioxidant activity and total phenolic contents in Schizophyllum commune Fr. The experiment was completely randomized design (CRD) using tender and mature coconut water compared to synthetic hormone at concentration of 50 % and 100 % in volume of 5 and 10 ml. The first group is fresh mushrooms and the second group is boiled mushroom then was dried in hot air oven at 45 °C for 48 hr. The S. commune was extracted with ethanol and then was evaluated the scavenging activity by DPPH and FRAP assay and Folin-Ciocalteau method was used to determine total phenolic contents. The data were recorded as means ± standard deviations and analyzed by using SPSS version 21. The mean values of data were subjected to a oneway analysis of variance (ANOVA) and the significance of the difference between means was determined by the Tukey’s multiple comparison tests at 95 % least significance difference (p< 0.05). Pearson correlation coefficient was used to determine the relationship between the antioxidant activity and total phenolic contents in sample extracts. In fresh mushroom group showed higher antioxidant activity and total phenolic contents than boiled mushroom group. When compared to a loss of antioxidant activity and total phenolic contents after boiling only the experiments with coconut water found that tender coconut water 50 % of 5 ml has the lowest of loss in TEAC and total phenolic contents as 9.28 % and 9.85 % respectively. Mature coconut water 100 % of 10 ml has the lowest of loss in FRAP as 2.77 % and followed by tender coconut water 50 % of 5 ml as 4.82 % which were lower than control treatment but similar with synthetic hormone of 5 ml. The relationship between antioxidant activity and total phenolic contents of mushrooms was low in both groups. It concluded that tender coconut water 50 % of 5 ml could maintain the antioxidant properties and total phenolic compounds in S. commune.

4 illus, 5 tables, 35 ref

028876   AHMAD A A, KHALIFA I I A, ABUDAYEH Z H (Pharmaceutical chemistry and Pharmacognosy/ Applied Pharmaceutical Sci, Al-Isra Univ, Amman, JORDAN, Email: zead.helmi@outlook.com) : The role of pomelo peel extract for experimentally induced wound in diabetic rats. Pharmacogn J 2018, 10(5), 885-91.

Delayed wound healing is a chronic complication in diabetic patients than in healthy individuals. Pomelo belongs to the genus Citrus of the family Rutaceae, an important fruit with great benefits for humans in the world. Previous studies showed that pomelo peels contain an abundant bioactive compound, which may promote wound healing in experimental animals. The current study was carried to prepare optimized extraction of pomelo peels using different experimental conditions and investigate the possible healing effect of oral treatment with pomelo peel extract (PPE) on induced excision skin wound in diabetic rats. This study was done on rats divided into five groups each of 8 rats (two treatment groups given PPE (400 and 600) mg/kg by oral gavage compared to two control groups and standard plant for wound healing). Diabetes was induced by intraperitoneal injection of a single dose of Streptozotocin (STZ) 65 mg\kg body weight. After diabetes induction, full thickness excision wound was made in rats, and the study continued for 3 weeks. This study showed significant reduction in blood glucose and both percentage and time to wound closure in the treated groups, also a significant increase in hydroxyproline and total protein content of the healed wound tissue in the treated groups compared with control groups and comparable to standard plant extract treated groups. Experimental data proposed that oral administration of pomelo peel extract rich in vitamins and flavonoids has a good therapeutic potential in the treatment of complicated wounds in diabetes.

1 illus, 3 tables, 38 ref

028904   BAWARI S, SAH A N, TEWARI D (Pharmaceutical Sciences Dep, Kumaun Univ, Nainital – 263 136, Email: drarchanansah@gmail.com) : Antiurolithiatic activity of Daucus carota: An in vitro study. Pharmacogn J 2018, 10(5), 880-4.

Urolithiasis is a polygenic disorder with complex etiology and even complicated treatment outcomes. Daucus carota is a widely cultivated crop with traditional claims for its antiurolithiatic potential. Present study was an attempt to investigate the antilithic potential of D. carota root extract (DCRE) against calcium oxalate (CaOx) urolithiasis by employing in vitro methods. Nucleation, growth and aggregation assay of CaOx crystallization were used. FT-IR analysis was used for characterizing CaOx crystals. DCRE exhibited significant inhibition of nucleation, growth and aggregation of CaOx crystals. It produced a favorable morphological transformation of CaOx crystals from calcium oxalate monohydrate to calcium oxalate dihydrate. FT-IR analysis confirmed formation of calcium oxalate monohydrate crystals to be utilized for growth and aggregation assays. DCRE possesses significant antiurolithiatic activity against CaOx urolithiasis in vitro which could be attributed to its saponins, tannins, flavonoids and polyphenolic content.

5 illus, 23 ref

028959   KUSMARDI K, TEDJO A, FADILAH F, ARSIANTI A, PARAMITA R I (Medical Chemistry Dep, Indonesia Univ, Jakarta - 10430, Indonesia, Email: fika.paramita@gmail.com) : Identification by docking simulation and in vivo effect of essential oil from Cinnamommum burmannii as anti-obesity with leptin receptor in the olfactory system of mice Balb C. Pharmacogn J 2018, 10(5), 875-9.

This study examines the effect of inhalation of essential oil of cinnamon (Cinnamomum burmannii) on the metabolic activity of hormone receptors olfactory system of mice Balb C. Effects of agonist or antagonist compounds in cinnamon essential oil on metabolic hormone receptors in the olfactory system are predicted using molecular docking simulation. Changes in the metabolic processes that occur views of changes in body weight, change in food intake, as well as lipid profile and blood glucose of mice. The results showed Expression of leptin receptors (Lep-R) in the brains of mice given either inhalation of essential oils derived from the leaves and stems, in contrast to the control group who did not get essential oils. Provision of essential oils through inhalation increased lep-R expression in the brain of mice. Both in silico and in vivo evidence that essential oils from cinnamon plants are extracted from Cinnamommum burmannii and given by inhalation in Balb C mice are known to improve glucose and lipid metabolism by reducing the concentration of serum leptin concentrations and increased sensitivity to insulin.

6 illus, 1 table, 17 ref

028898   BADOLE M (Chemistry Dep, Ramnarain Ruia Autonomous Coll, Matunga Mumbai - 400 019, Email: madhavibadole@gmail.com) : Effect of Putranjiva roxburghii wall. on phagocytosis and chemotaxis by polymorphonuclear leukocyte cells (in-vitro study). Int J Pharm Sci Res 2018, 9(10), 4499-504.

Polymorphonuclear leukocytes or neutrophils are important components of host defense machinery. They are the first line of defense against invading microorganisms. In the present research work, ability of human neutrophils to phagocytose was studied in-vitro by exposing the polymorphonuclear leukocytes to Candida albicans and the phagocytic capacity was evaluated using aqueous extract of leaves powder of Putranjiva roxburghii Wall. The chemotactic activity that is the movement of polymorphonuclear leukocytes towards a chemical stimulant was studied in-vitro by placing polymorphonuclear leukocytes in presence of a chemotactic agent Zymosan using aqueous extract of leaves powder of Putranjiva roxburghii Wall.

2 illus, 6 tables, 5 ref

028956   KUMAR A, RAO C V, SINGH K (Dayanand Dinanath Coll, Kanpur Nagar - 209 214, Email: anuknp80@gmail.com) : Gastroprotective effect of ethanolic extract of Trichosanthes dioica fruit on experimental gastric ulcer in rats. Int J Pharm Sci Res 2018, 9(10), 4481-6.

Peptic ulcer is a condition associated with a number of factors involving excessive acid secretion in the stomach. This condition is difficult to control with single drug therapy and complete cure cannot be achieved. Even after discontinuation of the drug the relapse rate is high, and the long-term use of synthetic drugs produces adverse effects on the human body. The present study is expected to diminish millions of people suffering from ulcer in the country. This will not only provide them relief but will be safe enough from side effect as observed in allopathic medicines. So present study was to investigate gastro protective effect of selected Indian medicinal plant Trichosanthes dioica belonging to family: Cucurbitaceae. 50 % ethanolic extract of Trichosanthes dioica fruit extract (TDE) was used for gastro protective effects on experimental models in rats. The entire drug solutions were prepared in 1 % CMC solution and administered twice daily for five days or 10 days for prevention using three distinct animal models Model 1: Pylorus ligation + aspirin induced gastric ulcer model, Model 2: Acetic acid induced gastric ulcer, Model 3: Ethanolhydrochloric acid induced gastric ulcer. Estimation of other biochemical parameter like total acidity Peptic activity, muco-substances, total hexoses, hexosamine, fucose, sialic acid and Protein also.

2 illus, 4 tables, 25 ref

028933   GODAVARI A, AMUTHA K, MOORTHI N M (Biotechnology Dep, Vels Univ, Chennai - 600 117, Email: godagene@gmail.com) : In-vitro hypoglycemic effect of Foeniculum vulgare Mill. seeds on the carbohydrate hydrolyzing enzymes, α-amylase and α-glucosidase. Int J Pharm Sci Res 2018, 9(10), 4441-5.

Diabetes is a metabolic disorder characterized by absolute or relative deficiency of insulin. Today, globally many therapeutic approaches are being innovated to decrease the postprandial glucose levels and adsorption through the inhibition of enzymes, α- amylase and α- glucosidase. Presently, these two enzymes offer for the maintenance of glucose levels in diabetic patients by hydrolyzing the carbohydrates ingested in the food. The aim of the present study was to screen the three different extracts, ethyl acetate, n-butanol and benzene of Foeniculum vulgare Mill. seeds for its in-vitro antidiabetic activity by α-amylase and α-glucosidase inhibition assay. The obtained results showed that all the three extracts had high alpha-glucosidase inhibitory affect than the alphaamylase inhibition when compared with the standard acarbose values. The preliminary phytochemical analysis of all the extracts showed the presence of phenols, saponins, terpenoids, tannins and flavonoids in all extracts. These secondary metabolites can serve to maintain the glucose level in the blood and hence act as hypoglycemic agents.

2 illus, 1 table, 29 ref

028998   SHARMA N, BANSAL Y (Biochemistry Dep, Pt. Jawaharlal Nehru Government Medical Coll and Hospital, Chamba - 176 310, Email: yogeshwrites2u@gmail.com) : Effect of Asparagus curillus on levels of matrix metallo proteinases in GCF and saliva of periodontal patients. Int J Pharm Sci Res 2018, 9(10), 4422-9.

This study was planned to evaluate the antiinflammatory effect of roots of Asparagus curillus in periodontal inflammation via assessing gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) and salivary inflammatory markers namely MMP-8, -9, 13, TIMP-1 and IL-6. Samples of GCF and saliva were obtained from patients with chronic periodontitis (n = 98) and healthy controls (n = 27). Study population (n = 98) was divided into two groups - Group A: patients with periodontitis receiving only conservative periodontal treatment and Group B: patients with periodontitis receiving both the conservative periodontal treatment and Ayurvedic therapy in combination. Concentrations of periodontal inflammatory markers i.e. MMP-8, -9,-13, TIMP-1 and IL-6 were estimated by Enzyme linked immuno absorbent assay and were analysed at two different time intervals i.e. at baseline and 3 months after therapy. There was statistically significant decrease in the concentrations of MMP-8, -9, - 13 in GCF and saliva in both the groups at 3 months after therapy. (p < 0.05) However, there was found a statistically significant lower concentration of the markers in Group B subjects than in Group A subjects at three months after therapy (p < 0.05). This data indicate that Asparagus curillus may show a promise as an anti- inflammatory drug and combined use of this plant with conservative periodontal therapy is more effective treatment for chronic periodontitis.

3 tables, 39 ref

029006   VERLEKAR P, CHANDAK N (Microbiology Dep, Patkar-Varde Coll of Arts, Mumbai - 400 062, Email: dr.naynachandak@gmail.com) : Antibacterial and antibiotic-potentiation activities of lemon against drug resistant phenhotypes. Int J Pharm Sci Res 2018, 9(10), 4373-81.

Antibiotic resistance continues to pose a significant problem in the management of bacterial infections despite advances in antimicrobial chemotherapy and supportive care. Therefore, it is necessary to search the other alternatives that can be effective in the treatment of these infections. The present work was aimed to evaluate the antibacterial and antibiotic-potentiation activities of lemon against drug resistant phenotypes. The sensitivity of S. aureus and P. aeruginosa was determined by performing antibiotic sensitivity test (AST). They were found to be resistant to tested antibiotics and since S. aureus was resistant to oxacillin it was classified as methicillin resistant S. aureus (MRSA). The phytochemical analysis of lemon juice and lemon peel extract showed presence of flavonoids, phenols, steroids, reducing sugar and alkaloid. Antioxidant activity which was determined by Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Power (FRAP) assay method showed increasing trend in reducing power with the increase in concentration for both samples. The antibacterial activity of lemon juice, lemon peel extract and citric acid was screened against resistant isolates by using agar well diffusion method. All three samples were found to show good antibacterial effect against MRSA and P. aeruginosa. The MIC was performed and minimum concentration of sample inhibiting test organism was found to be 1:4. The antibiotic-potentiation activity of lemon juice, lemon peel extract and citric acid was carried out by agar dilution method. It was found that all above three samples at certain dilution in combination with antibiotic modulated the activity of antibiotic which resulted in the inhibition of drug resistant bacteria. Liquid sanitizer was prepared using lemon juice showed reduction in bacterial growth after treatment which proves its efficacy as a sanitizer.

4 illus, 5 tables, 18 ref

028957   KUMAR B S, KUMAR J V (Anatomy Dep, Vinayaka Mission’s Kirubananda Variyar Medical College and Hospital, Salem - 636 308, Email: skdrchinu88@gmail.com) : Fertility effect of Cycas circinalis and Ionidium suffruticosum in senility induced sterility of male wistar rats - a histomorphometric study. Int J Pharm Sci Res 2018, 9(10), 4267-72.

Ageing is associated with the diminished function of various tissues in the body. The gonadal function declines with age. In male, there is progressive atrophy of the sperm producing elements of the testes, resulting in diminished spermatogenesis. Many natural nontoxic herbs were found to enhance the fertility in male. The study is done to evaluate the effect of Cycas circinalis (Cc) and Ionidium suffruticosum (Is) in improving the fertility of senility induced sterility of male albino rats. A total of 24 healthy young male albino rats were selected and six animals were randomly distributed into 4 groups. The groups include normal control, positive control, experimental I and Experimental II. Normal control was administered sterile water orally; positive control was administered testosterone hormone subcutaneously (10 µg/kg body weight), experimental I group was administered ethanolic extract of Cycas circinalis (200 mg/kg body weight) and Experimental II group was administered ethanolic extract of Ionidium suffruticosum (200 mg/kg body weight) orally for 30 days. Various parameters such as sexual behaviour, weight of animals, dimension and weight of testes, hormone, semen and histological analysis were compared among the groups. Restitution of fertility was compared with the normal fertile controls rats. The drug’s efficacy was compared by one way ANOVA among the groups and both the herbs showed significant improvement in all the parameters in experimental rats when compared to control rats. The herbs were found to be effective on the gonads of senility induced sterility of male Albino rats.

1 illus, 4 tables, 13 ref

028908   BUNEIL P A S, SCHEEWE H W P, SANICO C G, ALIMA Z D, DEMAYO C G (Biological Sciences Dep, Science and Mathematics Coll, Iligan City 9200, Philippines, Email: cgdemayo@gmail.com) : Assessing the genotoxic and cytotoxic responses of the H-29 cancer cell lines on the ethanolic extracts of the oyster mushroom, Pleurotus ostreatus var. Florida. Int J Pharm Sci Res 2018, 9(10), 4201-9.

Globally, colorectal cancer is the third most common known today. Lack of cheap, rapid, safe and reliable cancer treatments resulted to the continued pursuit to find natural sources of bioactive compounds that can be cytotoxic or damaging to the DNA of cancer cells. One of the potential resource is the edible oyster mushroom (Pleurotus ostreatus var Florida) reported to have medicinal properties. Since many of the studies did not show specific varieties of the species used for the evaluation specifically on the anti-tumor and anticancer properties of the species, this study was therefore conducted. To determine whether there are cytotoxic and genotoxic effects of the ethanolic extracts of this variety of the white oyster mushroom against HT-29 colon cancer cell lines by damaging the DNA of cancer cells, the Comet assay method was used. This assay made use of differences in the measurements calculated by Open Comet Software of the tail length, tail DNA, tail DNA percent and tail moment in untreated and IC₅₀ ethanolic extract-treated cells. Results of the statistical analysis of the profiles of cells show significant differences between the untreated and treated HT-29 cells. This simply implies that the ethanolic extracts from P. ostreatus var. Florida had induced DNA damage to HT-29 cancer cell lines and that this variety of the species of P. ostreatus is a potential source of bioactive compounds important for the treatment of colorectal cancer.

8 illus, 4 tables, 66 ref

028997   SHARMA D C, SINGH S, SHARMA R, SHARMA C, SINGH R, SRIVASTAVA P K (Microbiology Dep, Dr. Shakuntala Misra National Rehabilitation Univ, Lucknow - 226 017, Email: dcsharma@gmail.com) : Delayed post-operative surgical site infection: Source and investigation of causative agent. Int J Pharm Sci Res 2018, 9(9), 3976-9.

About 70 middle aged (20 - 45 years) patients, including 40 males and 30 females, operated at Base Military Hospital, Meerut Cantonment Board, Meerut (India) developed typical symptoms of pus formation at surgical sites and opening of sutures after 30 - 45 days. To investigate the causative pathogen and source of infection, various samples were collected from wounds and various sites of Operation Theatre. The samples were processed on culture media including nutrient agar, McConkey agar and LowensteinJensen’s medium (LJ medium). To identify the pathogens, Gram’s and acid fast staining of the smears of samples and cultures obtained on different media, were carried out. Acid fast bacilli were observed after 3 - 5 days of incubation on LJ medium. The wound samples showed the prevalence of Mycobacterium chelonae and acid fast rods.

2 illus, 1 table, 22 ref

028905   BHATTACHARYA P G, CHOWDHARY A N, SUTRADHAR P (Microbiology Dep, Institute of Genetic Engineering, Kolkata - 700 128, Email: pgbhattacharya@gmail.com) : A study on the antimicrobial effects of crude principles extracted from Piper betle linn. leaf stalks and Ocimum sanctum linn. leaves. Int J Pharm Sci Res 2018, 9(9), 3933-7.

The nature harbours a huge source of active principles possessing antimicrobial property. This phenomenon provokes microbiologists, ethnopharmacologist and natural product chemists to perform extensive research on phytoprinciples. The extensive use of these principles in phytotherapy is becoming an excellent alternative strategy against the occurrence of microbial resistance due to some conventional medicines. The current research article dealt with ethanolic crude extractives from the dried leaves of Ocimum sanctum Linn. and fresh Leaf stalks of Piper betle Linn. were screened for its antimicrobial activity using the agar-well diffusion method. The sample of the mentioned herbs could be easily found in large amount from the environment of north east region in India. In our present study with Ocimum sanctum L. (tulsi) leaf extract showed marked inhibitory effect on Klebsiella pneumoniae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, E.coli, Vibrio cholerae where a highest zone of inhibition estimated was 30 mm against E. coli. Tulsi extractive possess partial inhibition against Candida albicans. Crude ethanolic extractive of Piper betle Linn. (Paan) stalk remarkably inhibited. A. niger, Escherichia coli and Candida albicans where the highest inhibition zone was 27 mm against Aspergillus niger. This study has also focussed about the microbiostatic nature of the crude extracts isolated from the mentioned herbal parts. This work also emphasizes on the strategy for recycling or reusing betle stalks thrown as a waste materials beside many paan shop and tulsi leaves as thrown outside many temples after worshipping.

2 illus, 4 tables, 14 ref

028986   PRAJAPATI R N, PRAJAPATI S K, ALOK S, GUPTA R (Shri Venkateshwara Univ, Gajraula-244 236, Email: prajapatirn@gmail.com) : Folate anchored conjugates of poly (amidoamine) (pamam) dendrimer for controlled site specific delivery of piroxicam in arthritic rats. Int J Pharm Sci Res 2018, 9(9), 3889-96.

The purpose of the present study was to synthesize and evaluate the potential of folate-G.4.0-PAMAM dendrimer conjugates as acceptable vehicle for site specific delivery of piroxicam (PXM) to inflammatory regions and to determine its targeting efficiency in carreganan induced arthritic rats. PXM was selected as a model acidic anti inflammatory drug. Folic acid was linked to the surface amino groups of G4.0-PAMAM dendrimer through a carbodiimide reaction and loaded with PXM. The coupled conjugates were characterized by 1H-NMR, IR spectroscopy and polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (PAGE). The drug content and % encapsulation efficiency increased with increasing folate content for the dendrimer conjugates. The in- vitro release rate was decreased for the PXM-F1, PXM-F2 and PXM-F3 conjugates when compared with PXM-D1. Drug dendrimer and conjugates were further evaluated for haemolytic toxicity and stability study. There was no change in turbidity, colour, consistency in stability study. Efficacy of plain PXM and dendrimer conjugates was tested by carrageenan induced paw edema model. Pharmacodynamic study revealed 74 %, 78 %, 85 %, 90 % inhibition at 4th hour by PXM-F1, PXM-F2 and PXM-F3 conjugates that was maintained above 50 % till 12th hour. This study revealed the supremacy of active targeting over dendrimer mediated passive targeting of an anti-arthritic drug to the inflammatory tissues. The folate-PAMAM dendrimer conjugates are the ideal choice for targeted delivery of antiarthritic drugs to inflammatory regions with reduced side-effects. However, comparison of overall data suggested folate-G-4.0- dendrimer conjugate based formulations to be superior to PXM-D1 as well as pure PXM.

8 illus, 1 table, 17 ref

028949   KAMBLE P A, WADHER S J (Swami Ramanand Teerth Marathwada Univ, Nanded - 431 606, Email: pallavimpharma@rediffmail.com) : In-silico screening of flavonols against Brugia malayi asparaginyl tRNA synthetase. Int J Pharm Sci Res 2018, 9(9), 3858-62.

Lymphatic filariasis is one of the most abandoned tropical diseases caused by the parasite, Brugia malayi. The existing conventional drugs act generally on the larval stages of the parasite. The enzyme asparaginyl tRNA synthetase is an excellent molecular target as it plays a crucial role in protein synthesis. Evidences based on the literature presented clues to discover the flavonoids as potential anti-filarial leads, which led to the scope for this computational study. The computational parameters such as docking score, binding energy, intermolecular hydrogen bond interaction and the identical amino acids confirm that flavonoids could serve as prospective anti-filarial agents. The outcomes prove that they can be further explored in in-vitro and in-vivo studies to authenticate their claim as potential anti-filarial agents.

3 illus, 1 table, 15 ref

028962   MAHAJAN B, SNEHI S K, SINGH V (Microbiology Dep, Barkatullah Univ, Bhopal - 462 026, Email: bhartimahajan44@gmail.com) : Antidiabetic and anti-inflammatory effect of probiotic Lactobacillus paracasei mcc3195 in high fructose fed type 2 diabetic rats. Int J Pharm Sci Res 2018, 9(9), 3764-73.

The aim of this study was to investigate the antidiabetic and anti-inflammatory effects of probiotic Lactobacillus paracasei MCC3195 in high fructose fed type 2 diabetic rats. High fructose diet was used to induce type 2 diabetes in male albino wistar rats. L. paracasei MCC3195 was administered to rats at a single dose of 2 × 108 cfu/ml per rat for 8 week. The body weight, fasting blood glucose, oral glucose tolerance test, glycosylated hemoglobin, insulin, Liver glycogen level, lipid profile and oxidative stress parameters were analyzed. Interlukin-6 and Interlukin-10 were also estimated in serum. Histopathology analysis of pancreas and liver injury were done. At 8 week body weight, FBG, glucose tolerance, HbA1c, insulin, liver glycogen level, total cholesterol, triacylglycerol, LDL-C, VLDL-C, lipid peroxidation and IL-6 were significantly increased in diabetic rats, while administration of L. paracasei MCC3195 significantly decreased these factors. The level of HDL-C, reduced glutathione, superoxide dismutase, catalase and IL-10 were significantly decreased in diabetic rats, whereas administration of L. paracasei MCC3195 significantly increased these factors. Administration of L. paracasei MCC3195 protects the Islets of langerhans and hepatic cells from destruction as compared to the diabetic rats. Probiotic L. paracasei MCC3195 exerts the antidiabetic and anti-inflamatory effect in high fructose-fed type 2 diabetic rats, by significantly improving glucose intolerance, hyperglycemia, hyperinsulinemia, dyslipidemia, oxidative stress and immunoregulatory properties as well as protects the type 2 diabetes induced complications. Further, research is needed in other diabetic models for clinical application of L. paracasei MCC3195 in delay or prevention and progression of T2DM.

4 illus, 2 tables, 39 ref

029003   SUURBAAR J, DONKOR A-M, DONKOR M, SAEED M, ALIMATU-SADIA F, SAMUEL D F (Chemistry and Biochemistry Dep, Development Studies Univ, P. O. Box 24, Ghana, Email: suurbaar@gmail.com) : Effect of methanol extract of Anarcardium occidentale (cashew) stem bark on some biochemical parameters of carbon tetrachlorideinduced hepatotoxicity in rats. Int J Pharm Sci Res 2018, 9(9), 3689-95.

Anacardium occidentale (Cashew) has been used by Folk medicines as a remedy for many diseases. In this study, we investigated the ameliorative activity of methanolic stem bark extract of Anacardium occidentale.  Blood samples of the rats from each group were collected by tail bleeding for baseline biochemical test to know the state of the animals’ liver before the inducement of the injury. Thirty (30) Wistar rats were induced with CCl₄ (1.5 ml/kg, b.wt, 20 % CCl₄ / olive oil) for five days before treatment with the extract. After induction, elevated levels of the serum aminotransferases (ALT, AST), ALP and the decreased levels of ALB as compared to the enzyme markers levels before the induction of liver injury with CCl₄ indicated hepatocellular injury. Administration of the methanolic extract of Anacardium occidentale of different concentration (250, 500 and 1000 mg/kg b.wt oral) for five days reversed the impact of CCl₄ toxicity significantly (P<0.05) on the serum markers ALT, AST and ALP of the damaged liver as compared to the negative control groups (groups administered with Normal saline). Treatment with the methanolic extract resulted in decreased levels of ALB in the blood of the rats. The results of the study indicated that methanolic extract of Anacardium occidentale bark may possess a liver damaged curative property, which may be attributed to the presence of the phenolic compounds in the extract as shown in the phytochemical screening.

4 illus, 1 table, 31 ref