019617   Shirsand S B;Jonathan V;Gumate R T (Pharmaceutical Technology Dep, H.K.E. Society's College of Pharmacy, Gulbarga-585 105, Email: shirsand@rediffmail.com) : Annona reticulate pulp powder as a disintegrant in design of fast dissolving tablets. J pharma Sci Tech 2016, 6(1), 34-9.

The aim of the present work was to prepare and evaluate fast dissolving tablets of furosemide with a view to enhance patient compliance and minimizes the side effects. In this study, fast dissolving tablets of furosemide were formulated by direct compression method using such as pectin of orange peel powder (Citrus sinensis), custard apple pulp powder (Annona reticulata), were used natural disintegrants and crospovidone as a synthetic superdisintegrant in different ratios with directly compressible mannitol (Pearlitol SD 200) as a diluent to enhance the mouth feel. The prepared formulations were evaluated for hardness, friability, drug content, in vitro dispersion time, wetting time, water absorption ratio, in vitro drug release studies, stability studies and excipients interaction studies. Among all the formulations, the formulation (F_CA3) containing 8% w/w pulp CA3 of custard apple (Annona reticulate) was the overall best formulation (t₅₀ %2.1 min) based on in vitro drug release studies. Stability studies on the 50 formulations indicated that there are no significant changes in drug content and in vitro dispersion time (p<60>0.05). From the above studies, it can be concluded that fast dissolving tablets of furosemide can be prepared using different natural super disintegrant for faster dispersion and disintegration in the mouth.

4 illus, 6 tables, 18 ref

019616   Sheema Tasneem M;Prasad S S V;Srinivas B V V; Anil Kumar K;Yadav R K (Periodontics and Oral Implantology Dep, SreeSai Dental College and Research Institute, Chapuram, Srikakulam-532 001, Email: sheema.tasneem@gmail.com) : Effectiveness of pre procedural rinse with chlorhexidine and povidone-iodine in preventing bio aerosol contamination during ultrasonic scaling - a clinical and microbilogical study. J contemp Med Dent 2017, 5(2), 60-4.

Aerosol is defined as small droplet usually 5 μm or less in diameter, which can remain suspended in air for some time. The aim of the study is to compare the virtue of Chlorhexidine and Povidone-iodine solution as a pre-procedural mouth rinse in reducing bio-aerosol contamination during ultrasonic scaling. The study included 30 systemically healthy patients in different age groups. Patients were divided into two groups. Group I received pre procedural rinse with Chlorhexidine and group II with Povidone-iodine solution. The aerosols produced during the ultrasonic scaling were collected on blood agar plates and were sent for culture. Results showed that colony forming units in group I were significantly reduced compared to group II. The study concluded that pre procedural rinse with chlohxidine significantly reduces the bio-aerosol contamination and prevent cross infections.

4 tables, 4 tables, 20 ref

019615   Shah A M;Rasool S;Majeed A;Mushtaq S;Khan M H;Hussain A;Shah A;Hassan Q P (Microbial Biotechnology Div, CSIR-Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine, Sanatnagar, Srinagar-190 005, Email: qphassan@iiim.ac.in) : Reappraisal of actinomycetes for novel bioactive metabolites. Ann Phytomed 2017, 6(1), 13-19.

The appearance of new deadly diseases like cancer and the burgeoning problem of drug resistance among common bacterial pathogens are a serious threat to available treatments. Since the channels of compounds under development are limited, this necessitates the discovery of new drugs. It is where actinomycetes can complement in the accomplishment of development of therapeutically new bioactive compounds, predominantly used in antibiotic production. Actinomycetes are diverse in their location and have proven ability to produce new bioactive compounds. By employing modern microbiological and molecular technologies, the target-directed search for detection and isolation of bioactive actinomycetes is gaining more strength. Therefore, the innovative isolation of actinomycetes from extreme ecosystems, their identification and cultivation using novel techniques are imperative to pursue for drug discovery.

2 tables, 57 ref

019614   Selvaraj S;Niraimathi V (Pharmaceutics Dep, JKK Munirajah Institute of Health Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Gobichettipalayam-638 506, Email: selvasangari@gmail.com) : Formulation and in vivo evaluation of acyclovir loaded chitosan nanoparticles for ocular delivery. Int J pharm Sci Drug Res 2017, 9(3), 118-25.

The present study was aimed to formulate and evaluate chitosan nanoparticles containing acyclovir as potential ophthalmic drug delivery system. The topical application of acyclovir as eye ointment remains a concern for effective management of various ocular viral diseases owing to poor ocular drug bioavailability. The acyclovir loaded chitosan nanoparticles were prepared by ionic gelation of chitosan. Differential scanning calorimetry and fourier transform infra red spectroscopy measurements were carried out on the prepared nanoparticles, pure acyclovir and chitosan polymer. Fifteen different formulations were prepared and evaluated for particle size, Zeta potential, scanning electron microscopy, entrapment and loading capacity and in-vitro drug release profile. All the prepared formulations resulted in nano size in 377.9 to 720.6 nm and displayed spherical shape with zeta potential of +33.2 to +42.8 mV. The encapsulation efficiency and loading capacity were 70.7% - 90.9% and 25% - 50.8% respectively. The acyclovir loaded chitosan nanoparticles displayed crystallinity than acyclovir. The in-vitro release profile of acyclovir from the nanoparticles showed a sustained release of the drug over a prolonged period of 24 hours and fit best with Higuchi model with zero order and non- Fickian diffusion was superior phenomenon. The in vivo results reveal that ocular viral infections can be inhibited by the nanoparticles more significantly than the drug in conventional dosage forms. No appreciable difference was observed during 90 days in which nanoparticles were stored at various temperatures. Thus the results suggest that acyclovir loaded chitosan nanoparticle suspension appears promising for effective management of ocular viral infections.

5 illus, 5 tables, 34 ref

019613   Sayeed F;Ahmed A;Sayeed A (NO, MESCO College of Pharmacy, Hyderabad, Email: faizansayeed78@gmail.com) : Formulation and in vitro evaluation of solid dispersion of fluconazole. Int J pharm Sci Res 2016, 7(10), 4170-9.

The Goal of the present investigation was to design and evaluate gels for topical delivery of water insoluble antifungal agent Fluconazole with an aim to increase its penetration through skin and there by its flux. This is a broad spectrum imidazole derivative useful in the treatment of superficial and systemic fungal infections. The solubility of Fluconazole is increased by preparing solid dispersions with using mannitol, urea, polyethylene glycol 6000, polyvinyl pyrrolidone K30 and β-cyclodextrin as carrier. Solid dispersion of Fluconazole was prepared by physical mixture method, solvent evaporation method, fusion method, Kneading Method and complex formation, in-vitro release profiles of all solid dispersions were comparatively evaluated and also studied against pure drug of Fluconazole. Faster dissolution was exhibited by solid dispersion containing 1:3 ratio of drug: mannitol by fusion method. The prepared solid dispersions were subjected for percent practical yield, drug content, infra red (I.R.) spectroscopic studies and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). FT-IR spectra revealed no chemical incompatibility between drug and mannitol. Drug- polymer interactions were investigated using differential scanning - 117 - calorimetry (DSC). The formulation (FCS2) containing carbopol 934 (1%) with sodium lauryl sulphate 0.5% (500mg) showed best in vitro release of 98.95% at the end of 6 hrs.

31 ref

019612   Satyalakshmi S (NO, Vignan Institute of Pharmaceutical Technology, Beside VSEZ, Durvvada, Visakhapatnam-530 046, Email: satyalaxmi148@gmail.com) : Isolation and identification of polythene bags degrading bacteria from Visakhapatnam dumping yard. Int J pharm Sci Res 2016, 7(10), 4200-3.

Most low density bags are made from polythene, a chemically inert compound consisting of carbon and hydrogen. Burning of this plastic waste and burying of the plastics releases harmful toxic material which is a major pollutant in environment. Degradation of waste plastics through microorganism is the alternative method to deal with such problems. In this present study low density polythene bags degrading bacteria were isolated from greater Visakhapatnam dumping yard. Out of 20 isolates, one isolate was selected, due to its significant activity in biodegradation of polymer. After 30 days of incubation the isolate resulted 28% in weight loss of polythene bags. SEM images of the treated polythene bags confirmed that the isolate is having significant biodegradation ability by forming holes on the surface. Increased biomass of the bacteria on polymer and decreased biomass in spent medium indicates the significant utilization of polythene, as carbon source. The degraded material contains 5x10² CFU/mL of bacteria. Morphology and biochemical tests confirmed that isolate belongs to Pseudomonas sp. This work reveals that the atmospheric conditions of Visakhapatnam supports the biodegradation of plastic materials by microorganisms to control pollution of terrestrial and marine regions in some extent.

7 ref

019611   Sankar V;Gunasekaran M;Joseph R M;Raguthaman G (Pharmaceutics Dep, PSG College of Pharmacy, Coimbatore-641 004, Email: sansunv@yahoo.co.in) : Assessment of prescribing patterns, risk factors, and co-morbidity in psychiatric disorders. J pharma Sci Tech 2016, 6(1), 25-8.

Antipsychotic prescription patterns are fundamentally different across countries due to variations in factors including health care polices, availability, cost of drugs, and preferred treatment modalities. The burden of illness is enormous although it remains grossly under represented. The objectives of this study were to assess the risk factors and co-morbidities in psychiatric disorders, evaluate the prescribing pattern of antipsychotic drugs and its conformance to treatment guidelines, and study drug related problems. Those patients above 18 years diagnosed with psychiatric disorders for at least 6 months were considered eligible. The adverse effects and prescribing pattern of antipsychotics were evaluated. International guidelines were used to create conformance indicators. 100 patients were enrolled for this study out of which 45% were male and 55% were female. The major population belonged to the age group of 31-40 years and majority of these patients were diagnosed with Bipolar Affective Disorder (BPAD). Diabetes and hypertension were the common co-morbidities. Most patients received a combination of mood stabilizers with antipsychotics. Also, most of the patients on lithium reported tremors and headaches. Among the four selected - 116 - drugs, order of appropriateness from high to low as per indication was lithium and resperidone followed by olanzapine and sodium valproate. Assessment of risk factors and comorbidities for psychiatric disorders plays a key role, as a considerable number of subjects posses one or more risk factors. This study emphasizes the need for therapeutic drug monitoring of narrow therapeutic index drugs due to high risk of adverse drug reactions.

2 illus, 6 tables, 15 ref

019610   Sangeetha K S S;Umamaheswari S;Reddy C U M; Kalkura S N (Pharmacology Dep, Sri Ramachandra Univ, porur, Chennai, Tamilnadu, Email: umadhilipcologist@gmail.com) : Flavonoids: Therapeutic potential of natural pharmacological agents. Int J pharm Sci Res 2016, 7(10), 3924-30.

Flavonoids are the natural compound widely distributed in plant kingdom, it is responsible for the various colors exhibited by bark, leaves, flowers, fruits and seeds of plants. They are the secondary metabolites of plant with significant antioxidant properties. Flavonoids have antioxidant, sedative, antidepressant, anticonvulsant, anti-proliferative, anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial, anticancer, cardioprotective, antihypertensive, antiulcerogenic, antidiabetic and hepatoprotective activity. Many researchers have revealed that the above mentioned pharmacological actions are mainly due to its antioxidant property. Flavonoids have effect on mammalian enzymes like protein kinases, alpha-glucosidase and aldose reductase, thereby regulate multiple cellular signaling pathway that were altered during disease conditions. Various researches on flavonoids are in progress due to its versatile health benefits. En number of flavonoids are available in the market as pharmaceutical products because of its cost effective bulk production and health benefits. The present review is focused on the classification, metabolism, pharmacological and biological actions and flavonoid supplement available in market.

^iia41 ref

019609   Samuel Gideon George P;Dhivya K (Pharmacy Practice and Pharm D Dep, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Vels Univ (VISTAS), Chennai-600 117, Email: psgsauel@gmail.com) : Effect of gly 16 arg single nucleotide polymorphism on agonist binding to beta 2 adrenergic receptor - a structural pharmacogenomic approach. Int J pharm Sci Res 2016, 7(10), 4064-73.

Asthma is obAdd Newstructive disease characterized by bronchoconstriction and inflammation for which beta 2 (β₂) agonists that act through the β₂ adrenoceptor are the first line agents of choice. Glycine16Arginine (Gly16Arg) is a common single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) of β₂ adrenoceptor whose effects on treatment response remain inconclusive. Hence the study aims to understand and determine the effect of the Gly16Arg SNP on β₂-agonist binding and treatment responsiveness. Structure guided mutagenesis was performed with discovery studio tool, energy minimization was performed using Chemistry at Harvard Macromolecular Mechanics(CHARMM) force field, protein confirmation was studied using Ramachandran plot, Molecular docking analysis was performed using Autodock 4.2 and statistical analysis was performed using Graph pad prism 6.0. Statistically significant difference was observed between the binding energies of Glycine16 (Gly16) and Arginine16 (Arg16) groups. Further, the binding energies of β₂ agonists were found to be comparatively less in Arg16 group than the Gly16 group suggesting - 115 - that the Arg16 variant carriers may be poor responders of β₂ - sympathomimetic therapy. Presence of functional non synonymous single nucleotide polymorphisms in the β₂ adrenoceptor significantly alters β₂sympathomimetic binding. Patients with Arg16 variant may therefore be poor or non-responders of conventional bronchodilator therapy.

24 ref

019608   Sahoo S S;Rao C B;Mehta A K (NO, Mylan Laboratories Ltd, R&D Center, Hyderabad, Email: satyasahoo2003@gmail.com) : Formulation development and optimization of nanosuspension of simvastatin for improved solubility by nanomilling. J pharma Sci Tech 2016, 5(2), 78-86.

Formulation of poorly water-soluble drugs has always been a challenging problem for scientists and is expected to become a bigger challenge since approximately 40% or more of the new chemical entities being generated through drug discovery programs are poorly water-soluble. A poorly water-soluble drug indicates insufficient bioavailability following oral administration, resulting in fluctuating plasma levels and is largely dependent on meals. Simvastatin is one such agent. The purpose of this study was to formulate and optimize simvastatin nanosuspension. In the present work, simvastatin nanosuspension was prepared by nano milling technique using yttrium stabilized zirconium oxide beads as the milling media. A series of polymers and surfactants were screened, and HPMC E3 was selected for further studies. Central composite design (CCD) was adopted to optimize formulation parameters. The optimized nanosuspension was lyophilized and characterized by particle size distribution (PSD),polydispersity index (PDI), drug content, and x-ray diffraction (XRD). Its dissolution profile was compared with that of the micronized pure drug and marketed product. Optimized nanosuspension showed spherical shape with surface oriented stabilizer molecules and a mean particle diameter of 225 nm. There was no change in crystalline nature after formulation and it was found to be chemically stable with high drug content.

13 illus, 4 tables, 30 ref

019607   Roy A;Roy S;Chhetri A (Pharmaceutical Technology Dep, Dev Bhoomi Institute of Pharmacy and Research, Navgaon, Dehradun, Uttarakhand, Email: amitavaroy206@gmail.com) : Development of an aqueous film coating of metformin hydrochloride tablet: influence of plasticizers and surfactants on coating properties. J pharma Sci Tech 2016, 5(2), 92-7.

Hydroxy Propyl Methyl Cellulose (HPMC) 5cPs, an aqueous soluble polymer was employed for enteric coating metformin hydrochloride (Met-HCl) tablets 250mg. Proper optimization for the aqueous based film coating formulation was undertaken primarily employing plasticizers like polyethylene glycol (PEG) 400 and propylene glycol (PG). The defect free selected formulations were further subjected for studying the effects ofsurfactants like Sodium Lauryl Sulphate (SLS) and Tween-80 along with the plasticizers. The quality of the aqueous film coats or the plasticizer efficiency in case of PEG-400 is in the order 1.5%<62>0.5%<62>1.0% and for PG 1%<62> 4%<62> 3% which can be stated on the basis of less incidence of major coat defects like chipping, cracking, orange peel, roughness, blistering, blooming, picking. The quality of aqueous film coat or the surfactant efficiency in case of SLS+PEG-400 is in the order 0.3%<60> 0.5%<60> 0.1% and SLS+PG is in the order 0.5%<60> 0.1%<60> 0.3%. In case of Tween-80+PEG-400 the order is 0.3%<60> 0.5%<60> 0.1% and Tween-80+PG is in the order 0.3%<60> 0.1%<60> 0.5%. Elegant film formation can be stated from fewer incidences of coat defects. The obtained coated tablets eventually satisfied all the normal physical parameters like thickness, weights, and weight gain, drug content, crushing strength, percent friability, disintegration time, dissolution profile and possible drug-polymer interactions. ANOVA was - 114 - undertaken followed by Dunnet multiple comparison for the dissolution profile considering uncoated as the standard. The difference was considered significant at p≤ 0.01.

3 illus, 7 tables, 15 ref

019606   Rashid M H A;Mandal V;Mandal S C; Thandavarayan R A (Pharmacognosy and Phytotherapy Research Laboratory, Pharmacognosy Div,, Jadavpur Univ, Kolkata-700 032, Email: mdharunalrashid15@gmail.com) : Diospyros melanoxylon Roxb in cancer prevention: pharmacological screening, pharmacokinetics and clinical studies. Int J Pharmac 2017, 4(7), 217-23.

Plants contain a galaxy of phytoconstituents which accounts for their remedial worth. This plant has been used expansively for its medicinal value all over the world. Different plant parts have been used for its different pharmacological screening, including cancer therapy and leaves can be wrapped to create the "beedi" filled with tobacco which has outsold conventional cigarettes in India. Extraction of plant material with organic solvent and elucidation of pure compounds using different technique with different solvent system are extremely imperative limitation. Elucidation of pentacyclic triterpenoid, ursolic acid from D. melanoxylon and molecular mechanisms has vast chances for the development of enhanced therapy for different diseases, including cancer, and clinical studies. Our extensive intention of this study is to give a general delineate on the thyme D. melanoxylon and its cancer prevention potential, diverse pharmacological action, ethnomedicinal uses and chemical compounds. We also focus the extraction methodology, elucidation, pharmacokinetic and various clinical trials of ursolic acid chiefly obtained from D. melanoxylon.

64 ref

019605   Rana S;Prakash V;Sagar A (Biosciences Dep, Himachal Pradesh Univ, Shimla, Himachal Pradesh-171 005, Email: shellyrana87@rediffamil.com) : Studies on antibacterial and antioxidant activity of Ageratum conyzoids Linn.. Int J Sci Nat 2017, 8(1), 59-63.

Ageratum conyzoides Linn. (Family: Asteraceae) a medicinal plant which is commonly known as Goat weed or App grass is widely distributed over the tropical and subtropical regions of the world. The antibacterial activity of methanol, acetone and aqueous leaf extracts of A. conyzoids was determined in vitro against medically important pathogens i.e. Escherichia coli, Yersinia pestis, Bacillus cereus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Listeria monocytogenes and Staphylococcus aureus following agar well diffusion method using different concentrations (30%, 50%, 70% and 100%). Results showed low to significant antibacterial activity against the mentioned bacterial strains. Methanol leaf extract was found to be more effective against selected pathogenic bacteria as compared to acetone and aqueous leaf extracts. The antioxidant capacity of the different extracts of this plant was evaluated by DPPH (1, 1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl) and reducing power tests. The plant exhibited noticeable DPPH radical scavenging and reducing power activity. Therefore, the leaf extracts of this plant can be selected for further investigation to check their therapeutic potential.

1 table, 28 ref

019604   Rajya Lakshmi K;Mounika M;Srinivasa Babu P (Pharmaceutical Chemistry Dep, Vignan Pharmacy College, Vadlamudi, Guntur (Dt), Andhra Pradesh, Email: drkrl3579@gmail.com) : Formulation of natural mosquito paper coil and evaluation of mosquitocidal activity. Int J pharm Sci Res 2016, 7(10), 4140-4.

The main aim of the present study is to formulate low cost natural mosquito paper coil and to evaluate the mosquitocidal activity of Annona squamosa leaf extracts. Annona squamosa Linn. is the plant belonging to the family of Annonaceae commonly known as custard apple. Several bioactive compounds have been isolated from the Annona squamosa leaf extracts reported to possess anti-diabetic activity, Mosquitocidal activity, antioxidant and anti-bacterial activities. Mosquito species are well known vectors for the transmission of vector borne diseases affecting human beings particularly malaria, dengue, yellow fever, Chikungunya fever and filariasis. In recent years development of new synthetic products and their introduction into international usage has become a very costly affair and shows side effects. Hence, a lot of time, money and resources are channelled towards the synthetic formulation. Different extracts of Annona squamosa were prepared and they are formulated as a paper coil and evaluated by using commercially obtained paper coil as a standard for its mosquitocidal activity.

19 ref

019603   Rajesh N V;Subramani A;Kalpana Devi R (Veterinary Univ Training and Research Centre, Tamilnadu Veterinary and Animal Sciences Univ, Ramanathapuram-623 503, Email: crocvet@gmail.com ) : Antibacterial activity of Drynaria quercifolia (L.) J. smith and Dryopteris cochleata (Buch. Ham. ex. D. Don) against scale rot in pythons. Ann Phytomed 2017, 6(1), 148-54.

Antibacterial activity of Drynaria quercifolia (L.) J. Smith and Dryopteris cochleata (Buch. Ham. ex. D. Don) was assessed in this study. The bacteria were isolated from scale rot conditions in captive Indian Rock Python (Python molurus) n=15 and Reticulated Python (Python reticulates) n=10 and cultured in suitable media and the bacterial isolates were identified as Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. Isolated bacterial strains were subjected to antibiotic sensitivity test by Kirby-Bauer's/disc-diffusion method and were found resistant to 6 antibiotics and sensitive to enrofloxacin, ciprofloxacin and gentamicin. Antibacterial activity of aqueous, ethanolic and petroleum ether of two fern extracts was monitored by agar-well diffusion method. Linezolid 30 μg/ml and imipenem 10 μg/ml as controls for gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria and 10% DMSO solution as negative control showed petroleum ether extract least zone of inhibition for both E.coli and S.aureus. Values of zone of inhibition were highest of ethanolic extracts. E.coli showed least zone of inhibition than S.aureus. Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) of the active solvent extracts were determined and showed MIC and MBC were least for ethanolic extract than aqueous - 112 - and petroleum ether extract. Phytochemical studies of the collected ferns performed well with strong positivity for major phytoconstituents like tannin and phenol. The 11 phytoconstituents were well expressed during the qualitative analysis based on the order of solvent ethanol<62>aqueous<62>petroleum ether.

6 illus, 4 tables, 24 ref

019602   Raj G A;Chandrasekaran M;Jegan S;Venkatesalu V (Botany Dep, Annamalai Univ, Annamalainagar-608 002, Email: adaikalamvsp@gmail.com) : Phytochemical analysis, antibacterial and antifungal activities of different crude extracts of marine red alga Gracilaria corticata from the gulf of mannar south coast, Navaladi, South India. Int J pharm Sci Drug Res 2017, 9(2), 55-63.

Objectives to investigate the antibacterial and antifungal activity of hexane, chloroform, ethyl acetate, acetone and methanol extracts of Gracilaria corticata J. Ag against bacterial and fungal strains viz., Bacillus subtilis, Streptococcus pyogenes, - 111 - Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Salmonella typhimurium, Vibrio cholerae, Shigella flexneri, Proteus mirabilis and Proteus vulgaris. Fungal strains Candida albicans, Candida krusei, Candida guilliermondi, Candida parapsilosis, Candida tropicalis, Candida glabrata, four dermatophytes viz., Trichophyton rubrum, Trichophyton mentagrophytes, Microsporum gypseum and Epidermophyton flocossum. The extracts of G. corticata were extracted with different solvents viz., hexane, chloroform, ethyl acetate and methanol against bacterial and fungal strains by using disc diffusion method, MIC, MBC and MFC were determined. The ethyl acetate extract of G. corticata showed the highest antibacterial and antifungal activity against all the bacterial and fungal strains tested than the other extracts. The mean zones of inhibition produced by the extracts in agar disc diffusion assays were from 7.1 to 16.0 mm. The Minimum Inhibitory Concentrations (MIC) was between 125 and 500μg/ml, while the Minimum Bactericidal Concentrations and Minimum Fungicidal Concentrations (MFC) were between 250 and 500μg/ml. The highest mean zone of inhibition (16.0 mm) was observed in ethyl acetate extract of G. corticata against B. subtilis. The lowest MIC (125μg/ml), MBC and MFC (250μg/ml) values was observed in ethyl acetate extract of G. corticata against B. subtilis. The results suggest that the effective ethyl acetate crude extract of G. corticata showed the presence of phytochemical, terpenoids, tannins and phenolic compounds strongly than the other solvent extracts. These finding suggest that ethyl acetate crude extract of G. corticata have potential antimicrobial activity are under going further analysis to identify the active compounds currently progress.

3 tables, 47 ref

019601   Preethi R;Padma P R (Biochemistry Dep, Biotechnology and Bioinformatics, Avinashilingam Institute for Home S, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu-641 043, Email: padmapraghu@gmail.com) : Biosynthesis and bioactivity of silver nanobioconjugates from grape (Vitis vinifera) seeds and its active component resveratrol. Int J pharm Sci Res 2016, 7(10), 4253-62.

The seeds of Vitis vinifera have been shown to have antioxidant, anticancer and antimicrobial properties due to the presence of rich bioactive phenolic components like resveratrol. The research deals with the synthesis of silver nanobioconjugates from the methanolic extract of grape seeds and the pure compound resveratrol. The presence of resveratrol was confirmed by HPLC analysis in methanolic extract of various parts of grape fruits such as skin, pulp and seeds of two varieties (pink and black). As higher amount of resveratrol was present in the seed extract of pink grapes, it was selected for the silver nanobioconjugate synthesis. Various conditions were applied to influence the rapid reduction of Ag⁺ to Ag°, such as microwave heating, water bath heating, sunlight exposure and incubation at 37°C for nanobioconjugate synthesis. The reduction of silver ions was confirmed by color changes, adsorption spectroscopy (280-800nm) and percentage yield. Among the four different methods, sunlight exposure proved to be rapid in the synthesis and the yield of nanobioconjugates was also high. Therefore, this method was chosen for the synthesis of silver nanobioconjugates using resveratrol. The bioactivity of the synthesized silver nanoconjugates were also evaluated through antimicrobial activity. The results showed that the resveratrol in grape seeds extract can act as good reductant and stabilizer for the silver nanobioconjugate synthesis, which also exhibits potent bioactivity.

36 ref

019600   Praveen Kumar B;Vidyadhara S;Murthy T E G K; Venkateswara Rao B;Nikhila V (NO, Chebrolu Hanumaiah Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chandramoulipuram, Chowdavaram, Guntur, Andhra Pradesh, Email: praveenkumar.pharma@gmail.com) : Novel reverse phase liquid chromatographic method development and validation for the simultaneous estimation of atorvastatin, ezetimibe and fenofibrate in bulk and tablet dosage form. Int J pharm Sci Res 2016, 7(10), 4145-51.

A novel reverse phase liquid chromatographic method has been developed for the simultaneous estimation of Atorvastatin Calcium, Ezetimibe and Fenofibrate in bulk and Pharmaceutical formulations by using reverse phase Agilent 100-5 C₁₈ column [250mm x 4.6mm]. The mobile phase (Methanol: water) in the ratio of 70:30% v/v was pumped at a flow rate of 1ml/min and the column effluents were monitored at 250nm using Variable Wavelength UV detector. Linearity was obtained in the concentration - 110 - range of 20-100 μg/ml for Atorvastatin and Ezetimibe and 50-250μg/ml for Fenofibrate. The established method was statistically validated according to the ICH Q2B guidelines and the percentage relative standard deviation for precision, robustness and ruggedness was found to be less than 2% indicating high degree of precision and robustness. The percentage recovery for the accuracy was found to be 100.52%, 100.45% and 101.31% for Atorvastatin, Ezetimibe and Fenofibrate respectively which were within the specified limits of recovery. Assay for the marketed formulation proved that 99.86% of Atorvastatin, 99.61% of Ezetimibe and 99.83% of Fenofibrate. Hence due to its simplicity, rapidity, precision and accuracy the developed HPLC method can be applied for the estimation of Atorvastatin, Ezetimibe and Fenofibrate in pure and marketed formulations by a modern analyst.

21 ref

019599   Prakash V;Rana S;Sagar A (Biosciences Dep, Himachal Pradesh Univ, Shimla, Himachal Pradesh-171 005, Email: vedp685@gmail.com) : Studies on analysis of antibacterial and antioxidant activity of Prunus persica (L.) Batsch. Int J Sci Nat 2017, 8(1), 54-8.

The antibacterial activity of methanol, acetone and aqueous leaf extracts of Prunus persica was determined in vitro against medically important pathogens such as Escherichia coli, Yersinia pestis, Bacillus cereus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Listeria monocytogenes and Staphylococcus aureus following agar well diffusion method using different concentrations (25%, 50%, 75% and 100%). Results showed low to significant antibacterial activity against the mentioned bacterial species. Methanol leaf extract was found to be more effective against selected pathogenic bacteria as compared to acetone and aqueous leaf extracts. Furthermore, the leaf extracts inhibited gram-positive bacteria more efficiently than gramnegative bacteria. In addition, the antioxidant capacity of the different extracts of this plant was evaluated by DPPH (1,1- diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl) and reducing power tests. The plant exhibited moderate DPPH radical scavenging activity and good reducing power potential of greater than 50% in all the solvents used. Therefore, the leaf extracts of this plant can be selected for further investigation to determine their therapeutic potential.

1 illus, 2 tables, 23 ref

019598   Poornima B;Prasad K V S R G;Bharathi K (NO, Institute of Pharmaceutical Technology, Sri Padmavati Mahila Visvavidyalayam, Tirupati, 517502, Andhra Pradesh, Email: - 109 - poornimachandran7@gmail.com) : Evaluation of solid-state forms of curcuminoids. Int J pharm Sci Res 2016, 7(10), 4035-44.

Curcuminoids are dietary phytochemicals obtained from dried rhizomes of turmeric plant (Curcuma longa). Curcuminoids are mixture of curcumin, demethoxy curcumin and bisdemethoxy curcumin in which curcumin is a major constituent. Several polymorphic forms of curcumin were reported. The present study relates to the preparation of different solid forms of curcuminoids and to study the influence of other constituents of curcuminoids on the polymorphic behaviour of curcumin. The developed solid forms were characterized by various spectral methods like Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), Powder X- ray diffraction (PXRD), Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) and Scanning Electron microscopy (SEM). On crystallization from ethanol and upon melt crystallization, curcuminoids underwent transformation into an amorphous form. Grinding did not affect the polymorphic nature of curcuminoids. These findings suggest that curcuminoids undergo polymorphic modifications very similar to curcumin.

24 ref

019597   Peter A E;Aruna D;Rao P S;Sandeep B V;Rao B G (Biotechnology Dep, College of Science & Technology, Andhra Univ, Visakhapatnam-530 003, Email: angelapeter.728@gmail.com) : Canavalia virosa Roxb.. Int J pharm Sci Res 2016, 7(10), 3917-23.

Man has been dependent on plants for the treatment and cure of different diseases since time immemorial. Plants have served not only as a source of food and shelter but also as a very important source of different "portions" used for the treatment and cure of diseases. These portions are herbal or plant based mixtures made by traditional healers; who are individuals having a knowledge of medicinal plants of that particular area. In India, there are several thousands of medicinal plants, known to be used for specific diseases. Canavalia virosa is one such plant, known to be used for different curative purposes. However, it is more popular as a food plant as it is a tribal pulse. Canavalia virosa is a flowering plant belonging to the family Fabaceae. It is one of the lesser know vines from the genus Canavalia. It is not only important as an alternative protein source but also a promising medicinal plant as indicated by traditional medicine systems. This paper brings together some of the work carried out on this wonder plant by different researches.

^iia1 illus, 29 ref

019596   Pawar K R;Waghmare S G;Tabe R;Patil A; Ambavane A R (NO, VSBT College of Agricultural Biotechnology, Mahatma Phule Krushi Vidyapeeth, Email: swapnil.waghmare1856@gmail.com) : In vitro regeneration of Saccharum officinarum Var. co 92005 using shoot tip explant. Int J Sci Nat 2017, 8(1), 154-7.

Micropropagation is a widely implemented technique for production of a large number of plantlets in a very short period of time and in a trifling space of a culture room. Shoot tips and meristem culture techniques offer an opportunity for virus free plants production. In the present study, shoot tip culture technique was used for the production of plantlets of Saccharum officinarum (var. Co 92005). Shoot tips of size 0.5 cm dissected out from actively growing twigs of 6-8 month old plants, were cultured on MS basal medium supplemented with different concentrations of BAP and coconut milk. MS medium with 0.5 mg/l BAP and 20 per cent coconut milk was found to be best for culture initiation and establishment with 100 per cent response and maximum elongation of shoots. The same medium was found better for multiple shoot formation with 100 per cent response and maximum shoot multiplication. Maximum rooting response was observed on MS medium with 2.5 mg/l IBA with 100 per cent response with an average number of roots 2.93 roots/shoot and average root length 2.5 cm within two weeks. The rooted plantlets were transferred to pots filled with coco peat and were hardened under a polytunnel with 90 per cent survival after 15 days.

3 tables, 16 ref

019595   Patel G C;Patel A U;Shah D R (NO, Maliba Pharmacy College, Surat-394 350, Email: ankitapatel_0910@yahoo.com) : Non effervescent floating matrix tablets of atenolol: formulation and optimization using box behnken design. J pharma Sci Tech 2017, 6(2), 60-8.

Gastroretentive drug delivery systems have shown to be of a better significance in controlling the release rate for drug having site specific absorption. The aim of the present investigation was to develop non effervescent floating matrix tablets of atenolol. Since atenolol is a BCS class III drug, aim was to get controlled release and also to increase permeability in vivo. So, non effervescent floating matrix tablet was prepared using lipophilic surfactant and hydrophilic polymers. The prepared hot melt granules (HMG) were characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). There was no incompatibility observed in HMG. The HMG based floating matrix tablets were optimized by Box Behnken design to study the effect of independent variables, i.e. drug: lipophilic polymer ratio (X₁), drug: total polymer ratio (X₂) and hydrophilic polymer I: hydrophilic polymer II ratio (X₃) on dependent variables like % drug released at 1, 6 and 10 h. All batches - 108 - showed good floating properties with total floating time more than 12 h. From the regression analysis, it was observed that all three independent variables show significant effect on the response variables. There was no significant change after 6 months of stability study of optimized batch.

7 illus, 7 tables, 31 ref

019594   Patel B P;Patel D M (Pharmaceutics Dep, Nootan Pharmacy College, Visnagar, Gujarat, Email: visitbipin111@yahoo.co.in) : Design of core compressed tablets of azithromycin and bromhexine hydrochloride as dual release system. Int J pharm Sci Res 2016, 7(10), 4055-63.

Bromhexine hydrochloride, mucolytic agent used in the treatment of respiratory disorders. Azithromycin is use in wide variety of bacterial infections. The aim of this present work is to formulate dual drug delivery system containing azithromycin as immediate release and bromhexine hydrochloride as sustained release action. The sustained release part as core tablet of bromhexine prepared because of the frequent daily dosing is required for therapy. The floating formulation of core tablet was prepared because it dissolved in the pH range of 1 to 4. The core tablets of bromhexine hydrochloride were prepared by wet granulation technique. The prepared core tablets were evaluated for different parameters for selection of formula for floating the tablets. The core compressed tablets were evaluated for quick release of coat layer containing disintegrants. The various formulations of core tablets were prepared using HPMC K4M and K15M in different concentration. The prepared tablets were evaluated for physical parameters, disintegration time, floating lag time and drug release study. All the batches show around 70 sec disintegration time, 90 sec floating lag time and drug release up to 12 hrs. In batch B5 containing 30% of HPMC K15M found adequate drug release of bromhexine hydrochloride up to 12 hrs.

13 ref

019593   Pandurangan V;Amanulla S S D;Ramanathan K (Biotechnology Dep, Periyar Maniammai Univ, Vallam, Thanjavur, Email: kumaresanramanatha@gmail.com) : Anticancer efficacy of dry and fresh Allium ascalonicum (shallot) against HepG2 cell line. Natn J Physiol Pharm Pharmac 2016, 6(3), 196-9.

Objectives was to investigate anticancer activity of dry and fresh A. - 107 - ascalonicum. The organic (ethanol) extracts of dry and fresh shallot bulb (A. ascalonicum) were prepared and tested for in vitro anticancer efficacy on liver cancer cell line HepG2 by MTT (3-(4, 5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide) assay. The results showed that both dry and fresh shallot extracts have anticancer potential with inhibitory concentration (IC₅₀) of 50 μg/mL. The plant investigated possesses remarkable anticancer activity. Further studies are essential for the isolation of lead molecules from the plant to treat liver cancer.

2 illus, 2 tables, 27 ref

019592   Panda S;Leena Kumari;Hui S P;Panda S (Pharmacy Dep, Gupta College of Technological Sciences, Ashram More, G.T. Road, Asansol-713 301, Email: subhamay_panda@rediffmail.com) : Structural insight of homeobox DNA binding domain of Hox-B7A protein of Esox lucius. J pharma Sci Tech 2016, 6(1), 11-4.

Homeobox (Hox) genes are important metazoan developmental genes they dictate the identity of embryonic regions along the anterio-posterior axis. A homeobox DNA binding region exists in homeobox protein Hox-B7a along the length of its sequence. The objective of the present study is to evaluate the DNA binding domain of Homeobox protein Hox-B7a of Esox lucius (Northern pike) with special reference to structure generation, validation of the generated models, distribution of secondary structural elements and positive charge distribution over the structure. With the use of comparative modeling approach to we propose the first 3D structure of DNA binding region of Hox-B7a Esox lucius. The current study focuses on the understanding of evolutionary structural enrichment strategy of DNA binding region of Hox-B7a. The appearance of different secondary structural element over structure provides for the molecule specific uniqueness of DNA binding region of Hox-B7a of Esox lucius.

4 illus, 42 ref

019591   Palaksha M N;Ravishankar K;Sastry G V (Pharmacy Dep, Jawaharlal Nehru Technological Univ, Kakinada-533 003, Email: palaksha.mn@gmail.com) : Biological evaluation of in vivo diuretic and antiurolithiatic activities of leaf extracts of Melochia corchorifolia. Int J Pharmac 2017, 4(7), 238-44.

The study was investigated to establish the diuretic and antiurolithiatic activities of chloroform and ethanolic leaf extract of Melochia corchorifolia. The chloroform and ethanolic leaf extract were administered to experimental rats orally at a dose of 200 mg/ kg and 400 mg/kg. Furosemide (5 mg/kg) was used as reference standard for diuretic activity. The parameters measured for diuretic activity was total urine volume; urine electrolyte concentrations such as sodium, potassium, chloride and bicarbonates. In in-vitro antiurolithiatic activity, Calcium oxalate crystallization was induced by the addition of 0.01M sodium oxalate solutions in synthetic urine. The effect of chloroform and ethanolic leaf extract of Melochia corchorifolia (100, 200 and 500 μg/ml) was studied by time course measurement of absorbance at 620 nm for ten minutes by means of a spectrophotometer. Both the extracts show good in-vitro antiurolithiatic activity. In in-vivo antiurolithiatic activity, urolithiasis was induced in male rats by administering ethylene glycol (0.75% v/v) in drinking water for 28 days and the parameters such as oxalate, calcium and phosphate were estimated in urine. Serum creatinine, calcium and uric acid were also estimated. Treatment with the leaf extract of Melochia corchorifolia restored all biochemical, urinary parameters. The results obtained justified the importance of the leaf extract of Melochia corchorifolia as a diuretic and antiurolithiatic agent.

4 illus, 4 tables, 23 ref

019590   Padavala V S;Somanchi R L;Marikanti R;Korada A (Pharmaceutical Technology Dep, Shri Vishnu College of Pharmacy, Vishnupur, Bhimavaram-534 202, Email: vspadavala@svcp.edu.in) : Formulation and evaluation of mesalamine retention enema. J pharma Sci Tech 2016, 6(1), 45-50.

Ulcerative colitis comes under inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), a disease of colon, with inflammation confined mostly to mucosa characteristically affecting the rectum. Mesalamine has been used in the maintenance of remission in ulcerative colitis and management of mild to moderate active disease. Thus, it is used as the model drug in the present study and to formulate mesalamine retention enema and its comparative evaluation with the marketed product - MESACOL (Mesalamine Rectal Suspension USP). The suspensions were formulated by controlled flocculation method to maintain the sedimentation volume as that of marketed product. Xanthan gum and guar gum were used as suspending agents and Carbopol 934 as flocculation retardant. The formulations were characterized for their appearance, redispersibility, pourability, assay, pH, rheological properties, sedimentation volume, particle size determination, in vitro drug release and short-term stability of the selected formulations. We observe that appearance, redispersibility, pourability and pH were within the acceptable limits. Particle size of the suspensions of almost all the formulations were lying in the range of 60-65μm as that of marketed product. Sedimentation volume and thixotropic behaviour of the suspensions with xanthan gum was good when compared to guar gum. The percentage of drug content was found to be between 94-100% which was within acceptable limits. In vitro drug release at the end of 30 min of F2 (100.04%) and F5 (101.91%) were better than marketed product (87.96%). At the end of short-term stability studies (2 months), Formulation F2 indicated no significant change in sedimentation volume, assay, pH, average particle size and redispersibility and hence it is the optimized formulation.

7 illus, 4 tables, 11 ref

019589   Oraebosi M I;Olurishe T O;Ayanwuyi L O (Human Physiology Dep, Gregory Univ Uturu, Abia State, Nigeria, Email: oraebosimichael@gmail.com) : Chronomodulated nifedipine offers reno-protection of glimepiride-treated hyperglycaemic rats. J pharma Sci Tech 2016, 6(1), 40-4.

This study investigates the possible outcome of harnessing the established diurnal variation in nifedipine pharmacokinetics on nephropathy in glimepride-treated hyperglycaemic rats. Groups one and two rats were non-diabetic and diabetic controls respectively, receiving 1 ml/kg of PEG+H₂O. Groups 3-5 were all - 105 - hyperglycaemic and received glimepiride 10 mg/kg at 20:00 h. Groups 4 and 5 also received nifedipine 20 mg/kg at 20:00 h and at 08:00 h respectively. All drugs were administered orally for 21 days, and then nephropathy was evaluated by determining some serum renal biomarkers, kidney weights and renal histological assessment. Glimepiride alone at 20:00 h, and concurrent administration of glimepiride and nifedipine at 20:00 h did not produce significant difference in these markers nor relative kidney weight when compared to the diabetic control. Histological findings for these groups also show abnormalities similar to that of the diabetic controls. However, treatment with glimepiride at 20:00 h and nifedipine at 08:00 h revealed significantly (P<60>0.05) higher serum protein and albumin and significantly (P<60>0.05) lower serum urea with non-significantly lower serum creatinine and uric acid levels when compared to the diabetic control group. The relative kidney weight was also significantly (P<60>0.05) lower in this group than the diabetic controls while histology showed features similar to the nondiabetic controls. This study demonstrates that the undesirable interaction between nifedipine and glimepiride which antagonizes the antihyperglycaemic and treatment outcomes in diabetes can be circumvented by a 12 h dosing interval, taking pharmacokinetics and disease rhythm into cognizance.

5 illus, 1 table, 47 ref

019588   Oliveira C A;Viana C B;Martins R C C (NO, Federal Univ of Rio de Janeiro, Institute of Natural Products Researc, 21941-902, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil, Email: roberto@nppn.ufrj.br) : Biologically active triterpenes from Eugenia pisiformis Cambess. (Myrtaceae). Int J pharm Sci Drug Res 2017, 9(2), 98-9.

In Brazil, Eugenia pisiformis, which belongs to botanical family Myrtaceae occurs in the states of Rio de Janeiro, Espirito Santo, Maranhao and Bahia. A specimen of E. pisiformis collected in Itatiaia National Park, State of Rio de Janeiro had its leaves, were studied because there are no phytochemical data in the literature for this plant so far. From the ethanolic extract of the leaves 3 substances were isolated and identified as the cycloartane-type triterpene 24-methylenepollinastanol, oleanane-type triterpene uvaol and ursane-type triterpene erythrodiol. All of them present significant biological properties, according to the literature and 24-methylenepollinastanol have never been isolated from this species, genus or family.

^ssc1 illus, 18 ref

019587   Okoye E I;Adeyemi A J;Onyekweli A O (Pharmaceutics and Pharmaceutical Technology Dep, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Nnamdi Azikiwe Univ, Awka, Anambra State, Nigeria, Email: ei.okoye@unizik.edu.ng) : Physicochemical and excipient characteristics of a polymer isolated from the seeds of watermelon (Citrullus lanatus). J pharma Sci Tech 2016, 5(2), 64-70.

This study was aimed at isolating, characterizing and evaluating the excipient functionalities of a polymer from watermelon seeds. After oil extraction, the marc was dispersed in water, agitated, filtered, the polymer harvested as the sediment in the filtrate and purified. The polymer was characterized; used as excipient in tablet formulation; and tablets' qualities were assessed using standard protocols. Physicochemical tests revealed polymer as non-polysaccharide, amorphous biomaterial with melting point: 230.7°C, particle density: 1.70 g/ml, pH: 6.66, swellingindex: 51% and toxic metals contents below official limits. Properties of granules and tablets formulated with polymer as binder were similar to those formulated with corn starch as binder. Corn starch was a significantly better (p<60>0.05) disintegrant with PVP as a binder at concentrations greater than 2% w/w. This difference notwithstanding, the dissolution profiles of the tablets were similar. The polymer was a protein, swelledbetter than corn starch and functionally compared well as tablet excipient.

4 illus, 5 tables, 27 ref

019586   Neeraj Kumar;Mishra S S;Sharma C S;Singh H P; Pandiya H (Pharmaceutical Chemistry Dep, Geetanjali Institute of Pharmacy, Geetanjali Univ, Udaipur-313 001, Email: neerajkumarkamra@gmail.com) : In silico pharmacokinetic, bioactivity and toxicity evaluation of some selected anti-ulcer agents. Int J pharm Sci Drug Res 2017, 9(2), 68-71.

Peptic ulcer is a major health burden that recognized as a group of upper gastro-intestinal tract disorders. The aim of the therapy is to provide relieve from pain and prevent ulcer complications. Therefore, it is essential to evaluate the drug-likeness and toxicity profile of existing drugs for developing new potent anti-ulcer agents. In this research work, we study the pharmacokinetic, toxicity and bioactivity profile of few selected anti-ulcer agents by In silico method. These - 104 - research investigations provide the lead for the development of new anti-ulcer agents with lesser toxicity and more effectiveness.

3 tables, 8 ref

019585   Naik A;Varadkar M;Gadgoli C (NO, Saraswathi Vidya Bhavan's College of Pharmacy, Dombivli, Maharashtra, Email: chhayahgadgoli@gmail.com) : Identification of safranal in volatile oil extracted from tubular calyx of Nyctanthes arbor-tristis: a substitute to saffron aroma. J pharma Sci Tech 2016, 5(2), 102-4.

Orange coloured tubular calyx of Nyctanthes arbor-tristis contains carotenoid resembling crocin in saffron. Etheral extract of the tubular calyx was investigated for the presence of safranal, which is main constituent in saffron responsible for bitter taste and aroma. HPTLC analysis of ethereal extract of the calyx and saffron indicated resemblance in Rf value and UV Spectrum. Presence of safranal in the volatile oil of the tubular calyx of N. arbor-tristis was confirmed by GCMS analysis. It can be concluded from the studies that the tubular calyx of N. arbor-tristis is not only the substitute for saffron colouring matter but also for aroma.

7 illus, 2 tables, 11 ref

019584   Mustapha M A;Iwuagwu M A;Uhumwangho M U (Pharmaceutics and Pharmaceutical Technology Dep, Faculty of Pharmacy, Benin Univ, Benin City-300 001, Email: musibaumustapha@yahoo.co.uk) : Comparison of performance indices of artemether - lumefantrine fixed dose combination tablets using - 103 - quality by design approach II: pharmaceutical characteristics assessment. J pharma Sci Tech 2016, 5(2), 109-12.

Substitution of a pharmaceutical product with another depends among others on the extent of similarity and comparability of pharmaceutical quality parameters of such products. This research work was conceived to evaluate and compare properties of optimized formulations F-4 and F-6 with Artelum^® (REF-P), a standard, registered and commercially manufactured Artemether - Lumefantrine (AL) fixed dose combination tablets. Pharmaceutical properties such as weight uniformity, hardness, disintegration (DT), friability and dissolution of F-4, F-6 and REF-P were evaluated and compared. Results of achieved properties were alluded to by process capability index (CpK). Indeed, with weight variation of less than 2% relative standard deviation (RSD), DT of less than 104 s, friability of less than 0.64%, hardness of greater than 4.5 Kp, hardness / friability ratio of greater than 7.7, artemether dissolution in 60 min of greater than 54.5% and lumefantrine dissolution in 45 min of greater than 80%, the pharmaceutical properties of F-4, F-6 and REF-P complied with quality standards that enabled them to deliver good performance as shown by CpK. With DT of less than 2 min and RSD of 0.93% - 1.11%, achieved qualities were better than predefined. It is opined that quality and risk management benefits inherent in quality by design (QbD) model has been brought to bear on F-4 and F-6 as alluded to by the achieved qualities which were in most cases better than predefined and comparable to REF-P.

1 illus, 1 table, 15 ref

019583   Mustapha M A;Iwuagwu M A;Uhumwangho M U (Pharmaceutics and Pharmaceutical Technology Dep, Faculty of Pharmacy, Benin Univ, Benin City-300 001, Email: musibaumustapha@yahoo.co.uk) : Comparison of performance indices of artemether - lumefantrine fixed dose combination tablets using quality by design approach I: physicotechnical metrics evaluation. J pharma Sci Tech 2016, 5(2), 105-8.

Arising from challenges of physicochemical properties of Artemether and Lumefantrine especially their low solubility and permeability, this research was put together to assess the implications on the physicotechnical characteristics of the resultant Artemether-Lumefantrine (AL) fixed dose combination tablets. Granules were prepared by wet granulation technique and compressed into tablets using manually operated tablet press with 12.5 mm; round and flat face punches and die. Compaction behaviours at different compression pressures of between 30 and 42 MNm-2, kinetics as well as mechanisms of dissolution of AL in the tablets were evaluated and compared. Results of compaction characteristics showed that formulation 6 (F-6) was easy to compress into tablets compared with formulation 4 (F-4) with mean yield pressure (Py, MNm-2) of 163.93 and 336.7 respectively. Kinetics of dissolution of artemether in F-4, F-6 and reference product (REF-P) followed Korsmeyer-Peppas modelwith erosion as mechanism of dissolution in F-4 and REF-P, and Fickian diffusion in F-6. On the other hand, kinetics of dissolution of lumefantrine in F-4 was shown to follow Hixson-Crowell, Korsmeyer-Peppas for F-6 and Zero model for REF-P with all the formulations following Fickian diffusion as mechanism of dissolution. In conclusion, despite its multi-component nature and strict adherence to design space (DS) component of quality by design (QbD), the physicotechnical properties of the formulations alluded to good performance which will facilitate building of better pharmaceutical quality parameters into final products. This will however be elucidated in subsequent research work.

4 tables, 20 ref

019582   Mukhija S;Gurnani C;Vikram Kumar (Biotechnology Dep, IASE (D) Univ, Sardarshahar, Churu, Rajasthan, Email: shinam.mukhija@gmail.com) : Antibacterial activity of in vitro regenerated roots of Bryophyllum pinnatum Lam. Kurz. Int J pharm Sci Res 2016, 7(10), 4234-9.

In vitro antibacterial activity of Bryophyllum pinnatum (in vivo generated and in vitro regenerated roots) were analysed in this study. Traditional uses for these plants treat specific conditions or diseases. The present study examined the antibacterial activity using the disk diffusion method using Ethanolic & Methanolic extract as part of the process of understanding the chemistry, toxicity and efficacy of these plant extracts. Methanolic and Ethanolic extracts of this plant was examined using a standard antimicrobial disk diffusion method. - 102 - Extracts were tested against both Gram negative (Escherichia coli, Vibrio cholerae, Salmonella typhi and Pseudomonas aeruginosa) & Gram positive (Bacillus cereus & Staphylococcus aureus) bacteria. Methanolic in vitro regenerated roots showed higher inhibition zone against all bacterial species while natural growing plant root extract showed minimum inhibition. In vitro regenerated root extract showed moderate inhibition zone against all bacterial species. S. aureus showed maximum (25.2 mm) inhibition zone in in vitro root methanolic extract while V. cholerae showed minimum (14 mm) in natural growing root extract. In ethanolic extract maximum inhibition zone (22.1 mm) was observed against S. aureus and another maximum inhibition zone (21.3mm and 21mm) was reported against B. cereus and P. aeruginosa respectively. These results served to validate our procedures and indicate the need for the present study. Implications of these results for bioactivity and drug discovery potential of plant extracts can be further explored. This study serves as basis for further research on these weed plants.

20 ref

019581   Mfawwaz;Akbar N;Pratama M;Saleh A;Mbaits (Pharmaceutical Chemistry Dep, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universitas Muslim Indonesia, Jl. Urip Sumohardjo Km. 5 Campus II UMI Makassar 90231, South Sulawesi, Republic of Indonesia, Email: muammar.fawwaz@umi.ac.id) : High performance liquid chromatographic analysis of isoflavones aglycone in indonesian soybean. Int J pharm Sci Res 2016, 7(10), 4230-3.

Soybean is one of the highest isoflavones source. Isoflavones are one type of phytoestrogen that have a chemical structure similar to estradiol, that's why it can be used not only to inhibite but also to prevent many symptoms related deficiency of estrogen. However in the small intestine, isoflavones like genistin will be hydrolyzed by β-glucosidase and produce aglycone like genistein, this process can be optimized by hydrolysis with enzyme or chemical. The aim of this study was to obtain the extract of soybean that hydrolysed by hydrochloric acid and to obtain scientific data about the content of genistein in the extract by High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC). Analysis of samples by HPLC using C18 reverse phased column. Genistein standard with a concentration 8 ppm, 10 ppm, 12 ppm respectively diluted with methanol: water (8:2) as much as 5 ml. Soybean extract, weighed as much as 3 mg and dissolved in 10 ml of methanol: water (8: 2). Standard and sample then analyzed with the mobile phase used was methanol: water (7:3), a flow rate of 1 ml/min with a temperature of 28 °C, at a wavelength of 254 nm. From the results, show that average of genistein levels contained in the extract of soybean hydrolyzed for Glycine max is 0.5% and Glycine soja is 1.1%.

11 ref

019580   Meriga B;Naidu P B;Muniswamy G;Hanuma Kumar G;Naik R R;Pothani S (Animal Physiology and Biochemistry Laboratory, Biochemistry Dep, Sri Venkateswara Univ, Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh) : Ethanolic fraction of Terminalia tomentosa attenuates biochemical and physiological derangements in diet induced obese rat model by regulating key lipid metabolizing enzymes and adipokines. Pharmacog Mag 2017, 13(51), 385-92.

The prevalence of overweight-obesity and associated comorbidities have reached alarming levels necessitating the need to explore effective therapeutics. In the present work, we demonstrated the promising antiobesity activity of ethanolic fraction of Terminalia tomentosa bark (EFTT) in diet induced obese rat model. High Fat Diet (HFD)-fed obese rats were orally administered with EFTT (50, 100 and 200 mg/kg body weight). Changes in body weight, body - 101 - composition, bone mineral concentration, bone mineral density, plasma glucose, insulin, leptin, adiponectin, circulatory and tissue lipid profiles, and the activities of liver antioxidant enzymes, key lipid metabolic enzymes and mRNA expressions of fatty acid synthase (FAS), peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPAR-γ), leptin and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) were assessed in experimental rats in the presence and absence of EFTT. At a dose of 200 mg/kg b.wt, EFTT has substantially attenuated body weight and related patho-physiological alterations in HFD-induced obese rats. These findings were correlated with histological observations of adipose tissue. The therapeutic activity of EFTT could be possibly through restoration of antioxidants status, regulation of key lipid metabolizing enzymes, expression of FAS, leptin, PPAR-γ and by synchronized control of energy metabolism in liver and adipose tissue.

8 illus, 4 tables, 40 ref

019579   Mehta D P;Rathod H J;Shah D P (NO, Vidyabharti Trust College of Pharmacy, Umrakh-394 345, Email: dhrutipmehta@yahoo.com) : Design, development and characterization of microemulsion based hydrogel of clotrimazole for topical delivery system. J pharma Sci Tech 2016, 6(1), 2-10.

The purpose of this research work was to design, development and characterization of microemulsion based hydrogel of clotrimazole for topical delivery system. The solubility of clotrimazole was performed in different excipients. Drug-excipient compatibility study was performed using FTIR spectroscopy. Pseudoternary phase diagrams were constructed to determine the region of existence of microemulsions. Clotrimazole loaded oil in water (o/w) microemulsion was prepared by phase titration method. A 3² full factorial design was applied to study the effect of independent variables, i.e., ratio of surfactant: co-surfactant (X₁) and the ratio of oil: water (X₂) on dependent variables, i.e., %Transmittance (Y₁), viscosity (Y₂) and %cumulative drug release at 12 h (Y₃) for the optimization of microemulsion formulation. Clotrimazole microemulsion formulation F9 was optimized on the basis of %Transmittance, viscosity and %cumulative drug release. The optimized formulation F9 shown in vitro drug release up to 12 h. Clotrimazole microemulsion based hydrogel was optimized based on the physical appearance, pH, viscosity, spreadability and in vitro & ex vivo permeability. The results of the skin irritation study showed that there was no irritation of skin. Optimized formulation had good antifungal activity compared to the marketed product. Results of stability study revealed that the optimized formulation was satisfactorily found to be stable for three months.

13 illus, 8 tables, 30 ref

019578   Meena R;Verma S C;Maurya A;Jayanthy A;Khan A S;Ansari S A;Mageswari S;Arfin S;Aminuddin (NO, Drug Standardization Research Institute, PLIM Campus, Kamla Nehru Nagar, Ghaziabad-201 002, Email: drpratapmeena@gmail.com) : Standardization of a unani drug harsinghar (Nyctanthes arbor-tristis Linn.) leaves. Hippocratic J Unani med 2016, 11(2), 107-20.

Nyctanthes arbor-tristis L. (Family: Oleaceae) is known as Harsinghar or Siharu Tree in India. The leaves of N. arbor-tristis are used in the Traditional Systems of Medicine like Unani, Ayurveda and Sidhha against different diseases such as obstinate sciatica, fever, diabetes and act as cholagogue, diaphoretic and anthelminitic. The major phytochemicals reported in leaves are triterpines and its glycosides, which may be responsible for various pharmacological - 100 - actions like anti-inflammatory, anti-spasmodic, antibilious, expectorant, laxative, diaphoretic, diuretic and anti-helmintic. Due to various pharmacological actions, commercialization of this drug to meet its increasing demand has resulted in a decline in its quality, because of lack of adequate regulations and scientific protocols. There is, therefore, a need to develop a systematic approach for authentication and develop well-designed methodologies for standardization of this important drug. In the present study, the reported pharmacopoeial parameters to evaluate the raw material and can be used as reference standards for the purpose of quality control/quality assurance of this drug are presented.

11 illus, 2 tables, 27 ref

019577   Manjunatha Gowda K S;Niranjana P;Peter A; Patil R (Biochemistry Dep, Kuvempu Univ, Shankaraghatta, Shivamogga-577 451, Email: bpniru@gmail.com) : Evaluation of growth and biochemical changes in silkworm Bombyx mori L., variety PM X CSR₂ fed with yellow leaves of V1 variety of mulberry. Int J Sci Nat 2017, 8(1), 132-7.

India is the second largest producer of silk after China. Hence the scope for increasing the silk production in our country is immense. A large number of varieties of silk worm are used for the silk production. Mulberry belongs to the family Moraceae which has more than 20 species and the common species found in India are, being Morus alba, M. indica, M. atropurpurea roxb, M. nigra, M. serrata and M laevigata. The composition of the leaves varies with variety, degree of maturity and the type of soil in which the plants are grown. Mulberry silkworm is a monophogus insect which feeds only on the mulberry leaves. Growth and development of silkworm and cocoon crop are mainly influenced by yield and nutritional quality of mulberry leaf used as feed. In the present study, the effect of yellow leaves of the mulberry variety V1 on the growth and biochemistry of haemolymph of the silk worm variety PMxCSR2 in three groups viz., 3rd to 5th instar, 4th to 5th instar and 5th instar was studied. In the first group, on the 16th day a significant increase in weight of 3.30 ±0.056 g was observed in the control when compared to the treatment which recorded a growth of only 0.27 ±0.016 g. In the second group, growth of only 0.25 ±0.006 g for the treatment and a significantly higher 2.29 ±0.030 g for the control were observed on the 12th day of rearing. In the third group, a significantly higher growth of 2.325 ±0.061 g in the control and only 0.74 ±0.094g in the treatment were recorded on the 9th day. The concentration of proteins and carbohydrates were significantly higher in the control in all the three groups when compared to the treatment while, the concentration of the lipids was significantly higher in the treatment in all the three groups when compared to the control. The concentration of the total proteins and carbohydrates in the yellow mulberry leaves were significantly lower when compared to those of green mulberry leaves confirming the fact that the nutritional value of the mulberry leaves significantly influence the growth and protein, carbohydrate and lipid content of the haemolymph of the silk worm in turn influencing the silk quality and quantity.

3 illus, 5 tables, 18 ref

019576   Mamillapalli V;Khantamneni P L;Mohammad Z; Mathangi A;Nandigam N;Namburi S M;Katta V (Pharmacognosy and Phytochemistry Dep, Viaya Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences for Women, Enikepadu, Viayawada-521 108, Email: vanimamillapalli@yahoo.co.in) : Phytochemical & in vitro antiurolithiatic studies on the leaf extracts of Bauhinia variegata Linn.. Int J pharm Sci Res 2016, 7(10), 4074-84.

The aim of the present study is to carry out fluorescence analysis, phytochemical extraction, preliminary phytochemical screening, estimation of total flavonoids, tannins, alkaloids, steroids saponins and in vitro antiurolithiatic studies on the leaf aqueous and ethanolic extracts of Bauhinia variegata. The results of fluorescence analysis indicate that the powder on treatment with 50% H₂SO₄ shows dark brown colour under UV. The results of preliminary phytochemical screening indicated the presence of saponin glycosides, tropane alkaloids and acidic compounds. The results of quantitative determination indicated that the aqueous extract contains highest amount of flavonoids expressed as 54.6 mg/gm equivalents of quercetin, maximum amount of tannins in ethanolic exract as 56.30 mg/gm equivalents of quercetin, equal amounts of alkaloids are present in both extracts as 25mg/gm equivalents of atropine sulphate, steroids and saponins in lowest amount. The in vitro antiurolithiatic activity was studied as percentage inhibition of stones by nucleation, growth and aggregation assays for aqueous and ethanolic extracts at 200-1000 μg/ml taking cystone tablets as standard. The results indicated that the inhibition of growth of crystals increased with increase in concentration of the extract. Therefore, the plant claimed to possess antiurolithiatic activity and further in vivo studies as well as isolation of individual compounds responsible for - 99 - the activity are necessary.

42 ref

019575   Malik T R;Rahman A u;Tajuddin (Ilmul Advia (Pharmacology) Dep, Aligarh Muslim Univ, Aligarh-202 002, Email: rahman.mdi@gmail.com) : Standardization and evaluation of antibacterial and antifungal activity of root bark of dar-e-hald (Berberis aristata). Hippocratic J Unani med 2016, 11(2), 79-94.

Due to unsystematic use of many antibiotics and antifungal drugs at higher doses at medical centers to get early medical and commercial benefits causes many problems to human health. Microorganisms developed resistance against many antimicrobial drugs and uses of these synthetic medicines are also associated with severe - 98 - adverse effects. Therefore, there is an urgent and constant need to develop new, safe and effective therapeutic agents for the treatment of infections. Dar-e-Hald (Berberis aristata) is a medicinal plant used in Unani System of Medicine since long time either as single drug or in compound formulations to treat infectious diseases. In this study Dar-e-Hald was screened for its antibacterial and antifungal activity against different gram positive and gram negative bacterial strains such as Bacillus sp, Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pyogenes, Vibrio cholera, E. coli and Proteus sp.etc. and different fungal strains like Aspergillus flavus, Aspergillus fumigates, Aspergillus nigur, Candida albicans, Candida keyfr, Candida parapsilosis. The Aqueous and alcoholic extract and powder of the test drug was used to determine antibacterial and antifungal activity by disc-agar diffusion technique at three concentration levels (50, 25 and 12.5μg/disc) and compared with standard drugs. Ciprofloxacin (5 μg/ disc) taken as standard for antibacterial potential and for antifungal activity Fluconazole (10 μg/disc), Nystatin (100 μg/disc) and Amphotericin (100 μg/disc) were used. Zone of Inhibition was taken as the parameter for the assessment of antimicrobial activity. Minimum inhibitory concentration for alcoholic extract of Berberis aristata against bacterial and fungal strains was also determined. Dar-e-Hald shows significant activity against most of the bacterial and fungal strains used for the study. Furthermore, before testing these drugs for antimicrobial activity, the samples of the drugs were also checked for authenticity based on certain Physico-chemical parameters.

5 tables, 40 ref

019574   Liu Y Z;Liu Y Q;Jia R;Li J;Chang X W;Xu C X; Cai Q (Medicine Dep, Liaoning Univ of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Dalian, China) : Determination and tissue distribution comparisons of atractylodin after oral administration of crude and processed atractylodes rhizome. Pharmacog Mag 2017, 13(51), 413-17.

Atractylodis rhizoma is one of the most often used drugs in traditional Chinese medicine. Stir frying with wheat bran is the most common processing method. To clarify the principle of processing, an experiment was carried out to compare the tissue distribution of typical constituent after oral administration of raw A. rhizoma and processed ones. Objectives was to compare the tissues distribution of atractylodin after oral administration of raw and processed A. rhizoma and clarify the processing principle of A. rhizoma. Materials and Methods: High-performance liquid chromatogram with ultraviolet detection was developed and validated for the determination of atractylodin in rat tissues. The atractylodin in raw and processed A. rhizoma was distributed in all tissues involved in this study. The concentration of atractylodin in it is the highest in the stomach and small intestine.

3 illus, 6 tables, 13 ref

019573   Liu X;Shi Y;Deng Y;Dai R (Institute of Space Biology and Medical Engineering, School of Life Science, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, PR China) : Using molecular docking analysis to discovery Dregea sinensis Hemsl. potential mechanism of anticancer, antidepression and immunoregulation. Pharmacog Mag 2017, 13(51), 358-62.

The objective of this study is to recognize the mechanism of anticancer, antidepression, and immunoregulation of D. sinensis Hemsl. Seventy-two steroidal glycosides of D. sinensis Hemsl. were evaluated on the docking behavior of tumor-associated proteins (PI3K, Akt, mTOR), depression-related proteins (MAO-A, MAO-B) and immune-related proteins (tumor necrosis factor-α [TNF-α], tumor necrosis factor receptor 2 [TNFR2], interleukin-2Rα [IL-2Rα]) using Discovery Studio version 3.1 (Accelrys, San Diego, USA). The molecular docking analysis revealed that mostly steroidal glycosides of D. sinensis Hemsl. exhibited powerful interaction with the depression-related protein (MAO-A) and the immune-related proteins (TNFR2, IL-2Rα). Some ligands exhibited high binding energy for the tumor-associated proteins (PI3K, Akt, mTOR) and the immune-related protein (TNF-α), but MAO-B showed none interaction with the ligands. This study has paved better understanding of steroidal glycosides from D. sinensis Hemsl. as potential constituents to the prevention of associated cancer, depression and disorders of immunoregulation.

2 tables, 35 ref

019572   Lipin Dev M S;Menon D B (Biotechnology Dep, Karpagam Univ, Coimbatore-641 021, Email: darsanbm@yahoo.co.in) : Essential oil extracted from Plectranthus amboinicus induces apooptosis in the lung cancer cells via mitochondrial pathway. Int J pharm Sci Drug Res 2017, 9(2), 83-9.

The use of medicinal plants in the form of extracts and oils dates back to pre-historic times. The aim of the study was to determine the effect of Essential oil (EO) extracted from leaves of Plectranthus amboinicus on lung cancer cell line, A549. MTT assay was performed to check the efficacy of Essential oil to induce death in cancerous A549 cells and normal HEK293 cells. Acridine Orange/Ethidium Bromide staining, Hoechst staining and DNA fragmentation assays were used to confirm the apoptosis inducing ability of EO on A549 cells. RT-PCR and western blotting was performed to check the expression of pro- and anti-apoptotic factors. Calorimetric assay was done to check caspase-3 and caspase-9 activities. Essential oil at lower concentrations was found to induce cell death selectively in the lung cancer cells (IC₅₀ = 10.74 μg/mL). The transcriptional expression studies of the pro-apoptotic Bax and anti-apoptotic Bcl-2; and the western blot analysis of pro-apoptotic BAK and BAD showed that EO upregulated the expression of pro-apoptotic factors and down regulated the expression of anti-apoptotic factors in A549 cells. Caspase-9 and 3 activities were found to be upregulated in the calorimetric studies. The down regulation of anti-apoptotic factors and upregulation of pro-apoptotic factors show that the Essential oil induced apoptosis in the lung cancer cells via the intrinsic or the mitochondrial pathway.

8 illus, 1 table, 26 ref

019571   Li X Q;Kang R;Huo J C;Xie Y H;Wang S W;Cao W (Pharmacology Dep, School of Pharmacy, Fourth Military Medical Univ, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710032, China) : Wound-healing activity of Zanthoxylum bungeanum maxim seed oil on experimentally burned rats. Pharmacog Mag 2017, 13(51), 363-71.

The seed oil of Zanthoxylum bungeanum Maxim (ZBSO) is considered to be rich source of fatty acids, mainly oleic and linoleic acids, and has been used for the treatment of burns in Chinese medicine. Objective: We evaluated the healing efficacy of ZBSO and explored its possible mechanism on scalded rats. Materials - 96 - and Methods: Sprague-Dawley rat models with deep second-degree burns were set up, and ZBSO (500 and 1000 μl/wound) was topically applied twice daily for 7 days and then once daily until wound healing. The therapeutic effects of ZBSO were evaluated by observing wound closure time, decrustation time, wound-healing ratio, and pathological changes. Collagen type-III, matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2), MMP-9, phospho-nuclear factor-kB (p-NF-kB) p65, inhibitor of NF-kB subunit α p-IkBα, and inhibitor of NF-kB subunit α (IkBα) expression were determined using Western blotting. Results: The ZBSO-treated group showed a higher wound-healing ratio and shorter decrustation and wound closure times than the untreated group. The topical application of ZBSO increased collagen synthesis as evidenced by an increase in hydroxyproline level and upregulated expression of collagen type-III on days 7, 14, and 21 posttreatment. A reduction in MMP-2 and MMP-9 expressions also confirmed the collagen formation efficacy of ZBSO. Furthermore, there was a significant increase in superoxide dismutase levels and a decrease in malondialdehyde levels in ZBSO-treated wounds. ZBSO also decreased tumor necrosis factor alpha, interleukin-1 (IL-1) β, and IL-6 levels in serum, upregulated IkBa, and downregulated p-NF-kB p65 and p-IkBα expression in vivo, indicating the anti-inflammatory action of ZBSO. Conclusion: ZBSO has significant potential to treat burn wounds by accelerating collagen synthesis and the anti-inflammatory cascade of the healing process.

5 illus, 2 tables, 50 ref

019570   Li F;Raza A;Wang Y W;Xu X Q;Chen G H (NO, , 301, Xuefu Road, Zhenjiang 212013, Jiangsu Province, P.R. China) : Optimization of surfactant-mediated, ultrasonic-assisted extraction of antioxidant polyphenols from rattan tea (Ampelopsis grossedentata) using response surface methodology. Pharmacog Mag 2017, 13(51), 446-53.

Rattan tea is a medicinal plant that has been used for many years for the treatment of inflammation, fatty liver, tumor, diabetes, and hyperlipidemia. A green and novel approach based on surfactant-mediated, ultrasonic-assisted extraction (SM-UAE) was developed for the extraction of antioxidant polyphenols from Rattan tea. A nonionic surfactant Tween-80 was selected as extraction solvent. The antioxidant activity was measured by total phenolic content (TPC) and ferric-reducing/antioxidant capacity (FRAC) assay. Optimization of extraction parameters including concentration of solvent, ultrasonic time, and temperature were investigated by response surface methodology. The antioxidant activity was measured by TPC and FRAC assay. The optimal extraction conditions were determined as 6.8% (v/v) of aqueous Tween-80, ultrasonic temperature of 54°, and ultrasonic time of 28.8 min. Under these conditions, the highest TPC value of 360.4 mg gallic acid equivalent per gram of dry weight material (GAE/g DW) was recorded. Moreover, 6.8% (v/v) of aqueous Tween-80, ultrasonic temperature of 54.5°, and ultrasonic time of 28.4 min were determined for the highest FRAC value of 478.2 μmol of Fe²⁺/g of weight material (μmol Fe²⁺/g DW). Compared with other methods, the TPC and FRAC values of 313.5 mg GAE/g DW and 389.6 μmol Fe²⁺/g DW were obtained by heat reflux extraction using ethanol as solvent, respectively, and 343.2 mg GAE/g DW and 450.1 μmol Fe²⁺/g DW were obtained by UAE using ethanol as solvent, respectively. The application of SM-UAE markedly decreased extraction time or extraction cost and improved the extraction efficiency, compared with the other methods.

5 illus, 4 tables, 32 ref

019569   Lei J P;Yuan J J;Pi S H;Wang R;Tan R;Ma C Y; Zhang T;Jiang H Z (School of Life Science and Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong Univ, Chengdu 610031, P.R. China) : Flavones and lignans from the stems of Wikstroemia scytophylla diels. Pharmacog Mag 2017, 13(51), 488-91.

The genus Wikstroemia has about 70 species, but only a limited number of species have been studied chemically. Wikstroemia indica has long been used as a traditional crude drug in China. However, there is no report about the bioactivity of Wikstroemia scytophylla. This paper reports the chemical investigation and biological evaluation of the W. scytophylla. The EtOAc extraction of W. scytophylla was isolated using chromatographic methods, and the compounds were analyzed by spectroscopic methods. The in vitro antitumor activities against five human cancer cell lines were performed according to the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide method. The chemical investigation of the stems of W. scytophylla resulted in the isolation of 12 compounds mainly including one biflavone (1), - 95 - five flavones (2-6) compounds, and six lignans (7-12), in which compound 8 was a new natural product. Compounds 1 and 7-12 were evaluated for their antitumor activities while these compounds showed weak cytotoxicity with the half maximal inhibitory (IC50) values more than 40 μM. All of these compounds were isolated from this plant for the first time, and compounds 2-12 were first reported from genus Wikstroemia, in which compound 8 was a new natural product. Compounds 1 and 7-12 exhibited weak antitumor activities (IC₅₀<62>40 μM). The chemotaxonomic significance of all the isolations was summarized.

1 illus, 27 ref

019568   Lee I H;Chung H J;Shin J S;Ha I H;Kim M R;Koh W;Lee J (NO, Jaseng Spine and Joint Research Institute, Jaseng Medical Foundation, Seoul, Republic of Korea) : Influence of boiling duration of GCSB-5 on index compound content and antioxidative and anti-inflammatory activity. Pharmacog Mag 2017, 13(51), 418-24.

GCSB-5, an herbal drug composition with an anti-inflammatory effect, is prepared by boiling, which is the most common herbal extraction method in traditional Korean medicine. Several parameters are involved in the process, i.e., extractant type, herb-to-extractant ratio, extraction temperature and pressure, and total boiling time. The aim of this study was to examine the influence of boiling time on index compound amount and the antioxidative and anti-inflammatory activities of GCSB-5. Different samples of GCSB-5 were obtained by decocting for 30, 60, 90, 120, 150, and 240 min. Each sample was tested for hydrogen ion concentration (pH), total soluble solid content (TSSC), marker compound profiles, and antioxidative and anti-inflammatory activity. pH was found to decrease while TSSC increased with extended decoction. Marker compound contents for GCSB-5 (acanthoside D for Acanthopanax sessiliflorus Seem, 20-hydroxyecdysone for Achyranthes japonica Nakai, and pinoresinol diglucoside for Eucommia ulmoides Oliver) remained relatively constant regardless of the length of boiling. Total D-glucose amount increased with longer boiling. The antioxidative and anti-inflammatory potentials of GCSB-5 were not substantially affected by decoction duration. Biological characteristics and marker compound content of GCSB-5 were not altered significantly in prolonged boiling.

3 illus, 34 ref