013637   Das P;Sarma H K;Barman P;Bastola K;Tanti B (Botany Dep, Gauhati University, Guwahati-781 014, Email: btanti@gauhati.ac.in) : Characterization of β-galactosidase from yeast associated with starter cultures used in household alcohol production in Northeast India. Indian J Biotechnol 2017, 16(1), 100-05.

In the present study, we report the characterization of β-galactosidase from 12 different yeasts associated with the starter cultures used in the household alcohol production in Northeast India. The characterization of β-galactosidase was carried out for the maximum production and enzyme activity. Different parameters like temperature (20, 30, 40 & 50°C), time period (24, 48, 72 & 96 h), pH (5, 6, 7, & 9), carbon sources (sucrose, lactose, maltose, starch, mannitol & dextrose), nitrogen sources (urea, ammonium sulphate, sodium nitrate & beef extract), metal ions (EDTA, manganese sulphate, magnesium chloride, ferrous sulphate & zinc sulphate) and natural substrate (rice, rice bran, sugarcane & potato) were used to find out the enzyme activity. Optimization of culture conditions for β-galactosidase production was done following the crude extract method and the enzyme was assayed. Most of the yeast strains showed the highest enzyme activity at 30°C. Maximum high. The specific enzyme activity revealed the highest at maltose (carbon source), ammonium sulphate (nitrogen source), MgCl₂ (metal ions) and rice (natural substrate).

7 illus, 11 ref

013636   Coskun Y;Savaskan C (Biology Dep, Faculty of Arts and Sciences, Suleyman Demirel University, Isparta 32 260, Turkey, Email: yascoskun@gmail.com) : Plant regeneration through isolated microspore culture in recalcitrant durum wheat genotypes. Indian J Biotechnol 2017, 16(1), 119-25.

In the present study, a protocol of isolated microspore culture was optimized to generate green plants in Turkish durum wheat genotypes (Kiziltan-91, C-1252, Mirzabey 2000 & Kunduru-1149). The bread wheat cultuvar (Gun-91) was used as control because of its high androgenic response in the microspore culture. First significant step was to treat the anthers with four pretreatments (cold, cold with mannitol, cold with sorbitol & mannitol at room temperature). Anther maceration was used as an isolation method and microspores were plated on - 86 - induction culture medium supplemented with arabinogalactan-proteins (AGP) and ovary coculture. When the embryos reached the size of 2 mm, they were transferred to the differentiation medium having a combination of phenylacetic acid (PAA) and gibberellic acid (GA₃). The best results were obtained with the pretreatment of mannitol (+4°C) for 7 d on providing embryos and regenerated green plants in four durum wheat genotypes. The cultivar Kiziltan-91 gave the best response for embryo (<62>2 mm) formation (20.63%) and cultivar Kunduru-1149 for green and total plant generation (6.25% and 18.75%). These results indicated that the present protocol performed well to increase the embryo formation and green plant regeneration in the recalcitrant durum wheat genotypes studied.

4 illus, 3 tables, 24 ref

013635   Chalandar H E;Ghorbani H R;Aftar H;Alavi S A (Chemical Engineering Dep, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad Univ, Tehran, Iran, Email: Hamidghorbani6@gmail.com) : Antifungal effect of copper and copper oxide nanoparticles against Penicillium on orange fruit. Biosci Biotechnol Res Asia 2017, 14(1), 279-84.

Mold green and blue are most important disease of Citrus fruits after crop that it is created by fungus Penicillium italicum and Penicillium digitatum. In this study, copper and copper oxide nanoparticles synthesized by chemical reduction and precipitation methods and characterized by X-ray diffraction, FTIR, SEM and TEM. Also, the anti-fungal properties of synthesized nanoparticles were tasted against Penicillium on Orange fruit by Disc-Diffusion method. The antifungal properties of nanoparticles were studied by the effect of different concentrations of nanoparticles. The results show that anti-fungal properties also increased by increasing the concentration of nanoparticles to 15%.

12 illus, 1 table, 11 ref

013634   Bishnoi J P;Gehlot R;Siddiqui S (Amity Institute of Biotechnology, Amity Univ Rajasthan, Jaipur-302 002, Email: uohjyoti@gmail.com) : Change in chemical constituents and overall acceptability of frozen and dehydrated aonla fruit pulp during storage. J appl nat Sci 2016, 8(3), 1615-17.

Ascorbic acid and total phenol in frozen aonla pulp on zero day of storage was found to be 365.5 mg/100g and 2.1 mg/g while in dehydrated aonla pulp it was 2.3 mg/100mg and 14.7 mg/g which was found to decrease with the increase in storage duration. However, significant increase (CD at 5% Level) in total soluble solids (TSS) and non-enzymatic browning was noticed with the advancement in storage duration. The decrease and in-crease in physicochemical characteristics were more significant in dehydrated aonla pulp as compared to frozen aonla pulp. Mean score for sensory attributes of dehydrated aonla pulp at zero month of storage was fairly less than frozen aonla pulp. Moreover, there was more significant decrease in value of sensory attributes of dehydrated aonla pulp during six months storage period compared to frozen aonla pulp. Thus, present study was first in its kind to determine and compare chemical composition and overall acceptability of frozen and dehydrated aonla pulp obtained from aonla fruits cv. Chakaiya during storage for optimizing there use in further development of value added aonla product.

4 tables, 18 ref

013633   Bindra S;Sharma R;Khan A;Kulshrestha S (Faculty of Applied Sciences and Biotechnology, Shoolini Univ of Biotechnology and Management Sciences, Bajhol, Solan, Himachal Pradesh, Email: saurabh_kul2000@yahoo.co.in) : Renewable energy sources in different generations of bio-fuels with special emphasis on microalgae derived biodiesel as sustainable industrial fuel model. Biosci Biotechnol Res Asia 2017, 14(1), 259-274.

Today the most quandary situation in the world is to fulfil growing energy demand without impeding environmental balance. Rising population growth has led to the increase in world energy demand. However, the fossil fuel reserves are deteriorating at a faster rate. So, biofuels derived from biological materials through contemporary biological processes serve as an alternative choice to replace the existing demand of fossil fuels. These biofuels have basic renewable origin which set them apart from the fossil fuels. There are three categories; first, second and third generation biofuels depending upon the source crop and technology involved in energy generation. Of the three generations, first generation derived from food crops, second generation from non-food crops and third generation biofuels consist of microalgae-derived biofuels. This article reviews the various energy sources used during different generations of biofuels along with microalgae derived biodiesel production. Various constraints and concerns are associated with first and second generation biofuels and it has been observed that, microalgae derived biofuels, can be developed as more reliable and sustainable energy source to fulfil the world energy demand in future. They have a number of advantages over their counterparts such as non-feedstock, high growth rate with higher biomass yield, possess oils with higher lipid content and possibility of utilizing waste as well as salt water for growth. In addition to energy source, microalgae can provide various types of economic by-products adding to their advantages. In the future, the technology as well as algal strains should be improved to increase the energy efficiency and create economic as well as environmental benefits so as to plan a road map - 85 - for the industries to produce third-generation biofuels.

3 illus, 2 tables, 102 ref

013632   Babiye B (NO, , Ethiopian Institute of Agricultural Research, National Agricultural Biotechnology Program, Email: bbirhanu23@gmail.com) : Isolation and identification of bacteria from fresh fruit juice prepared in cafeterias and restaurants, Axum - 84 - town, Ethiopia. Biosci Biotechnol Res Asia 2017, 14(1), 307-13.

Fruit juices are well recognized for their nutritive value, mineral and vitamin content and are common in many tropical countries. Fresh products like fruits and vegetables are the normal part of the human diet and are consumed in large quantities in most civilizations. The main purpose of this study was to isolate and identify bacteria from fresh juice prepared in cafeterias and restaurants. Six Samples of Avocado and Mango locally prepared fruit juices were collected randomly from different restaurants and cafeterias of Axum town. All data were analyzed through differential statistics and results were expressed by numbers, tables and percentages. Microscopic investigation for Gram reaction and morphological features of suspected colony was determined using standard method of Gram's staining. Most probable the results in number showed that, in Mango and Avocado sample, sample 10^-1 was most contaminated with a count of 150 and 120 coliforms per 100 ml of the juice sample, respectively. The second highest contamination was seen in juice sample 10^-2 with a count of 100 and 100 coliforms per 100 ml of Mango and Avocado. The importance of personal hygiene, storage of fruit at cold temperature, using sterilized water for diluting the juice or to use clean equipments should be informed to people involved in preparing and handling of fruit juices.

3 tables, 22 ref

013631   Al-Qudah I H;Al-Radaideh A;Ahmed N;Mathew A (General Practioner, , Jordan) : Comparison of antibacterial efficacy of miswak extract to conventional mouth washes-a microbiological study. Biosci Biotechnol Res Asia 2017, 14(1), 99-104.

With advancing diagnostic capabilities and emerging technologies it is more vivid and clear that humans are under the threat of the microorganisms. Scientific fraternity is thinking deeply now how the bacterial, viral or fungal load can be addressed.It is believed that oral bacterial challenge can pose threat to multiple organ systems. The proof is highly established and double way bacterial challenge is established in the control and etiologies of diseases like low birth weight babies, coronary diseases, diabetes mellitus, Alzheimer's and so on. This lab study is undertaken in the microbiological lab using the specific media mitis salivarius. The study is done to the antibacterial efficacy of miswak extract in comparison with chlorhexidine, saline and distilled water. The method employed here is disc diffusion method for antibiotic sensitivity. It is noted that both chlorhexidine and miswak extract exhibited significant antibacterial property compared with saline and distilled sterile water.It is also observed that miswak extract showed better inhibition against streptococcus mutans compared with sample grown with plaque mixed population of bacterial population. The miswak extract is having comparable antibacterial efficacy with chlorhexidine. The miswak extract showed a better inhibition sensitive zone of 12mm or more when a pure colony of streptococcus mutans was applied in the mitis agar plate.

8 illus, 1 table, 22 ref

013630   Al-Ghafari A B;Althaqafi G H (Biochemistry Dep, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz Univ, Jeddah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Email: abalghafari@kau.edu.sa) : Effect of processing and roasting on the antioxidant activity of extracts from instant and ground coffee. Biosci Biotechnol Res Asia 2017, 14(1), 69-74.

Coffee is considered as one of the most consumed beverages worldwide and a major source for antioxidants. This study examines the antioxidant activity of water extracts from two coffee types (ground and instant), which were prepared according to the basis of their serving size. Using several colorimetric assays, the hydrogen peroxide and DPPH scavenging, as well as metal ion chelating activity and reducing power for the two coffee types were assessed. Results showed that ground coffee had more total phenolic content than instant coffee. However, extract from instant coffee showed a higher antioxidant activity especially as a scavenging and reducing agent than ground coffee. On the other hand, metal chelating activity of ground coffee extract was higher than the instant coffee extract. The differences in antioxidant activities between the two coffee brews extracts might be due to processing conditions especially roasting degrees and geographical sources.

4 illus, 1 table, 23 ref

013629   Al-Dahmoshi H O M;Almamoori A M J;Al-Khafaji N S K (Biology-College of Science Dep, Babylon Univ, Iraq, Email: dr.dahmoshi83@gmail.com) : Investigation of CusCFBA pump among uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC) isolated from women with cystitis, Iraq. Biosci Biotechnol Res Asia 2017, 14(1), 83-7.

Copper is a unique heavy metal with good antibacterial properties. It is functionality associated with various mechanisms, including damaging the microbial DNA, altering bacterial protein synthesis and altering membrane integrity. The resistance of E. coli to cooper add another virulence trait that make it resistance to another heavy metals like silver and cadmium and resistance to many antibiotics which refluxed by same manner. Minimum inhibitory concertration (MIC) measurement were performed according to protocol of CLSI 2016. PCR were used to investigate presence of cusC gene using specify primer. The results of phenotypic investigation of copper resistance (tolerance) revealed that 16 (59.25%) of UPEC isolated have MIC <60>= 500 ppm while the rest 11(40.75%) have MIC <62>= 1500 ppm. PCR results revealed that absence of cusC gene in all UPEC isolated (16 (59.25%) that have MIC <60>= 500 ppm while it presence in all those have MIC <62>= 1500 ppm (except U5 and U8). - 83 - As a conclusion this study state that the CusCFBA efflux system is the main copper extruding that can protect E. coli from oxidative damage by cooper.

1 illus, 1 table, 30 ref

013628   Akhtar S;Akmal M;Khan J A (Plant Virus Lab, Biosciences Dep, Jamia Millia Islamia, Jamia Nagar, New Delhi-110 025, Email: Jkhan1@jmi.ac.in) : Resistance to cotton leaf curl disease in - 82 - transgenic tobacco expressing βC1 gene derived intron-hairpin RNA. Indian J Biotechnol 2017, 16(1), 56-62.

RNA silencing is an adaptive, inducible antiviral defence mechanism in the host against invading viruses. The adaptive antiviral function is characterized by the formation of virus-derived small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) during viral infection. As a counter defense strategy, a number of plant viruses evolve viral suppressors to target antiviral silencing. Cotton leaf curl disease (CLCuD) is a disastrous complex disease caused by presently known five distinct monopartite begomovirus species in association with disease specific betasatellite (DNA-β), which is essential for induction of disease symptoms. Betasatellites are circular, ssDNA molecules that depend on helper viruses for their replication, encapsidation, insect transmission and movement in plants. They possess no appreciable sequence identity to their respective helper viruses except for a conserved hairpin structure necessary for their replications. In this study, siRNA-mediated strategy was applied to generate transgenic tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum) against CLCuD infection. A hairpin (hp) RNAi construct capable of expressing dsRNA homologous to the βC1 gene Cotton leaf curl Multan betasatellite (CLCuMuB) was disigned and developed. A total of eighteen (T₀) and seven (T₁) independent lines transformed N. tabacum plants were developed following Agrobacterium tumefaciens-mediated transformation with the βC1 gene-derived intron-(i)hpRNAi construct. Presence of the potential stretch of βC1 was confirmed by PCR coupled with Southern hybridization. The copy numbers of transgene varied between one and three. The transgenic N. tabacum plants of both T₀ and T₁ lines showed high level of resistance following inoculation with viruliferous whiteflies (Bemisia tabaci). No symptome were developed on the five (T₀ and two (T₁) transgenic lines, and remained symptoms free even 90 d inoculation. The present study has demonstrated that βC1 gene based RNAi-mediated resistance strategy possesses potential to silence CLCuMuB implicated in the induction of CLCuD symptoms.

6 illus, 29 ref

013627   Agouillal F;Taher Z M;Moghrani H;Nasrallah N; Enshasy H E (Research Unit on Analysis and Technological Development in Environment, Centre de Rescherche Scientifique et Technique en Analyses Physico-Chi, Tipaza, Algeria) : Genetic taxonomy, biomolecules chemistry and bioactivities of Citrus hystrix DC. Biosci Biotechnol Res Asia 2017, 14(1), 285-305.

Citrus hystrix DC. with common name makrut lime or kafir lemon, is a very popular traditional medicinal plant as well as an important spice in Asiatic countries. The plant is native of the Indonesian island Sumbawa, then, it is cultivated in Indonesia, Thailand, Malaysia and the tropical region of Asia. It mainly contains essential oil and phenolic compounds. The most intense odor compounds of kafir lemon are Citronellal, L-Linalool, 1,8-Cineole, α-Terpeneol and d-Cadinene. Such as Citrusosides-A and furanocoumarines, Makrut lime content also non-volatile compounds like alkaloids and glyceroglycolipids. Citrus hystrix DC has many biological activities due to its volatile and nonvolatile compounds, and it has been used in traditional medicine for treating various illnesses, particularly cold pain and stomach disorder. It is also used as a juice for its fruit or as spice for its aromatic leaves. This review covers data on the chemistry and biological effects of Citrus hystrix DC biomolecules, and aims to lay the foundation for further study on the extraction enhancement of these biomolecules and more useful formulations.

^iia9 illus, 1 table, 79 ref

013626   Abdollahi A;Mansouri S;Amani J;Fasihi-Ramandi M;Moradi M (Microbiology Dep, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman 93630, Iran, Email: jafar.amani@gmail.com) : Development and immuneractivity evaluation of a chimeric recombinant protein encoding Brucella antigen: in silico to in vitro. Indian J Biotechnol 2017, 16(1), 30-6.

Brucellosis is an important health problem in developing countries and no vaccine is available for the prevention of infection in humans. Because of clinically infectious disease and its economic consequences in human and animals, designing a proper vaccine against Brucella is desirable. In the present study, we evaluated the immune responses induced by a designed recombinant chjimera protein and investigated the immunogenic potential of some immune reactive antigens of Brucella. Three immune dominant antigens of Brucella including trigger factor (TF), Omp31 and Bp26 (have been characterized as potential immunogenic and protective antigens) were fused together by EAAAK linkers to produce a chimera. Recombinant chimeric protein was synthesized, cloned and expressed in Escherichia coli BL21 (structure were designed in silico). The purification of recombinant protein was performed by using Ni-NTA agarose, and anti-His antibody was used for confirmation (Western blot). The recombinant chimeric protein could be a new potential antigen candidate for the development of a subunit vaccine against Brucella. These results demonstrate the role of the Bioinformatics in vaccine design, assisted by experimental procedures.

5 illus, 26 ref

012865   Zhang Y;Zhang A;Zhang Y;Sun H;Meng X;Yan G; Wang X (Pharmaceutical Analysis Dep, National TCM Key Laboratory of Serum Pharmacochemistry, Laboratory of, Harbin 150040, China, Email: xijunwangls@126.com) : Application of ultra-performance liquid chromatography with time-of-flight mass spectrometry for the rapid analysis of constituents and metabolites from the extracts of Acanthopanax senticosus harms leaf. Pharmacog Mag 2016, 12(46), 145-52.

Acanthopanax senticosus (Rupr and Maxim) Harms (AS), a member of Araliaceae family, is a typical folk medicinal herb, which is widely distributed in the Northeastern part of China. Due to lack of this resource caused by the extensive use of its root, this work studied the chemical constituents of leaves of this plant with the purpose of looking for an alternative resource. In this work, a fast and optimized ultra-performance liquid chromatography method with quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UPLC-QTOF-MS) has been developed for the analysis of constituents in leaves extracts. A total of 131 compounds were identified or tentatively characterized including triterpenoid saponins, phenols, flavonoids, lignans, coumarins, polysaccharides, and other compounds based on their fragmentation behaviors. Besides, a total of 21 metabolites were identified in serum in rats after oral administration, among which 12 prototypes and 9 metabolites through the metabolic pathways of reduction, methylation, sulfate conjugation, sulfoxide to thioether and deglycosylation. The coupling of UPLC-QTOF-MS led to the in-depth characterization of the leaves extracts of AS both in vitro and in vivo on the basis of retention time, mass accuracy, and tandem MS/MS spectra. It concluded that this analytical tool was very valuable in the study of complex compounds in medicinal herb.

4 illus, 2 tables, 17 ref

012864   Xue F;Fang G;Yue X;Zhao E;Brauth S E;Tang Y (Herpetology Dep, Chengdu Institute of Biology, Chinease Academy of Sciences, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, P.R. China, Email: fanggz@cib.ac.in) : Lateralized functional auditory network is involved in anuran sexual selection. J Biosci, Bangalore 2016, 41(4), 713-26.

Right ear advantage (REA) exists in many land vertebrates in which the right ear and left hemisphere preferentiallyprocess conspecific acoustic stimuli such as those related to sexual selection. Although ecological and neural - 194 - mechanismsfor sexual selection have been widely studied, the brain networks involved are still poorly understood. In this study weused multi-channel electroencephalographic data in combination with Granger causal connectivity analysis to demonstrate,for the first time, that auditory neural network interconnecting the left and right midbrain and forebrain functionasymmetrically in the Emei music frog (Babina daunchina), an anuran species which exhibits REA. The results showedthe network was lateralized. Ascending connections between the mesencephalon and telencephalon were stronger in theleft side while descending ones were stronger in the right, which matched with the REA in this species and implied thatinhibition from the forebrainmay induce REA partly. Connections from the telencephalon to ipsilateral mesencephalon inresponse to white noise were the highest in the non-reproductive stage while those to advertisement calls were the highestin reproductive stage, implying the attention resources and living strategy shift when entered the reproductive season.Finally, these connection changes were sexually dimorphic, revealing sex differences in reproductive roles.

4 illus, 3 table, 83 ref

012863   Wang G;Liu Y (College of Life Sciences, Huaibei Normal Univ, Huaibei-235000, P.R of China, Email: liuyuan0813@aliyun.com) : Diazinon degradation by a novel strain Ralstonia sp. DI-3 and X-ray crystal structure determination of the metabolic of diazinon. J Biosci, Bangalore 2016, 41(3), 359-66.

Diazinon is a widely used organophosphorus insecticide often detected in the environment. A highly effectivediazinon-degrading Ralstonia sp. strain DI-3 was isolated from agricultural soil. Strain DI-3 can utilize dimethoateas its sole carbon source for growth and degrade an initial concentration of 100 mg.L^{-1} diazinon to non-detectablelevels within 60 h in liquid culture. A small amount of second carbon source as co-substrate could slightly enhance thebiodegradation of diazinon. In addition, a less toxic metabolic intermediate formed during the degradation of diazinonmediated by strain DI-3 was purified using thin-layer chromatography (TLC) and identified based on single-crystal Xraydiffraction analysis, allowing a degradation pathway for diazinon by pure culture to be proposed. Finally, this isthe first providing authentic evidence to describe the metabolite.

5 illus, 2 table, 36 ref

012862   Vijaykumar P;Shah H (NO, Arihant School of Pharmacy and Bio research Institute, Adalaj, Gandhinagar, Gujarat) : Formulation and evaluation of transdermal patches of - 193 - indapamide. Int J pharm Res Biosci 2016, 5(2), 215-29.

The aim of present work was to optimize the effect of polymers on matrix type Transdermal patch of Indapamide. I.e. Eudragit NE30D and HPMC K15M were used to achieve a predetermined Sustain effect. Transdermal films were prepared using Eudragit NE30D (Hydrophobic polymer) and HPMC K15M (Hydrophilic polymer) and DMSO as a permeation enhancer at different concentrations. PEG 400 was incorporated as plasticizer respectively. A 3² full factorial design was employed to explore the effects of Eudragit NE30D and DMSO (independent variables) on folding endurance and % cumulative drug release at 24 hour (Dependent variables). Further, the patches were also evaluated for uniformity of thickness and weight, surface pH, % drug content, folding endurance, % moisture absorbed, % moisture loss and in vitro drug diffusion. Results indicated that % cumulative drug release decreases with increasing the Eudragit NE30D and % cumulative drug release increased with increasing concentration of DMSO. Optimized formulation F3 showed satisfactory tensile strength, folding endurance and cumulative % drug diffusion at 24 hour of 796 ± 4.4, 324 ± 07 and 89.96 ±1.47 respectively. The selected formulation (F3) was found to be stable at 40 ± 0.5 °C and 75 ± 5% RH during the test period of 1 month. From the results, it can be concluded that Transdermal patches for Indapamide with desired characteristics could be prepared (polymer concentration Eudragit NE30D 7%, HPMC K15M 3%, PEG 400 30%w/w of dry polymer and DMSO 10%w/w of dry polymer).

3 illus, 47 ref

012861   Verma S (NO, Maharaja Ganga Singh Univ, Bikaner) : Pharmacological review on Cassia fistula Linn (Amaltas). Int J pharm chem biol Sci 2016, 6(3), 332-5.

Cassia fistula belonging to the family Fabacae commonly known as Golden Shower, Amaltash. This plant is used in folk medicine to cure burns, constipation, convulsions, diarrhea, dysuria and epilepsy, to cure leprosy, skin dieseases and syphilis. Cassia fistula have a rich source of tannins, flavonoids and glycosides. Pharmacological activities include antidiabetic, antibacterial, antifertility, anti-inflammatory antioxidant, hypatoprotective, antitumor, antifungal activities. This article aims to provide a comprehensive review on Taxonomy, Botanical description, phytochemical constituents and pharmacological activities.

^iia1 illus, 18 ref

012860   Vasuki S;Karthi S;Shivakumar M S (Biotechnology Dep, Molecular Entomology Laboratory, School of Biosciences, Periyar Univ, Salem-11, Tamil Nadu) : Effect of cypermethrin induced antioxidant enzymes systems in response to melatonin administration in Drosophila melanogaster. Free Radical Antioxidant 2016, 6(2), 167-72.

Melatonin, the main hormonal product of the pineal gland, has pleiotropic bioactivity that encompasses numerous endocrinological and behavioral processes. Melatonin and several of its metabolites function as free radical scavengers and broad-spectrum antioxidants. Due to their small size and amphiphilic nature they can easily reach all cellular compartments. The aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of melatonin on cypermethrin induced free radical damage in Drosophila melanogaster. Methods: The pro-or antioxidant enzyme activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione-S-transferase (GST), lipid peroxidation (LPO), peroxidase (POX), catalase (CAT) and cytochrome P450 were assayed. SOD and cytochrome P450 enzymes show significant increase in the melatonin+synthetic pyrethroid treated group, while GST shows significantly decreased activity in melatonin+synthetic pyrethroid group with respect to control. Lipid peroxidation activity was significantly increased in the synthetic pyrethroid group and also in melatonin+synthetic pyrethroid treated groups. In conclusion, melatonin administered the resulted in activation/increased expression of Cyt P450, GST and SOD titers, showing that melatonin in addition to being an antioxidant molecules, it also participates in eliciting other antioxidant systems in insects.

6 illus, 50 ref

012859   Vanmathi K;Saraswathi K;Jayabharath J; Arumugam P (NO, Armats Biotek Training and Research Institute, Guindy, Chennai-600 032) : Characterization of antioxidant activity of Strptomyces species isolated from shore regions of Kantahur, India. Int J appl Sci Engng Res 2016, 5(1), 107-17.

The aim of the research study concerns on screening, production and partial purification of antioxidant Secondary metabolites isolated from marine soil sample collected from Kanathur of Chennai, India. The sample was been serially diluted and plated on Starch Casein Agar and actinomycetes were selectively isolated. The broth culture of the ISP-2 medium was preferred for fermentation - 192 - process and bioactive metabolites were been extracted using the solvent ethyl acetate. The crude compound (ABTRI 1 strain) was been screened for total antioxidant study and based on the activity other invitro assays were carried out for crude compound. Secondary metabolites showed maximum inhibition at 100μg/ml, and the percentage of inhibition was been compared with the standard ascorbic acid. The partially purified crude compound was detected by Thin layer chromatography (UV and IODINE). The potential strain was characterizedby 16s rRNA sequencing. The findings of the present study suggested that the marine isolate could be a potent natural source of antioxidants.

5 illus, 24 ref

012858   Takauji Y;Miki K;Mita J;Hossain M N;Yamauchi M;Kioi M;Ayusawa D;Fujii M (Graduate School of Nanobioscience, Yokohama City Univ, Kanagawa 236-0027, Japan, Email: mifuji@yokohama-cu.ac.jp) : Triphala, a formulation of traditional Ayurvedic Medicine, shows protective effect agints X-radiation in HeLa cells. J Biosci, Bangalore 2016, 41(4), 569-75.

Ayurveda is a holistic medical system of traditional medicine, and Triphala is one of the most popular formulations inAyurveda. Triphala is composed of three kinds of herb, Terminalia chebula, Terminalia bellirica, and Emblicaofficinalis. Since Triphala is shown to exhibit a protective activity against ionizing radiation in mice, we investigatedits activity in HeLa cells. We found that Triphala showed the protective effects against X-radiation and bleomycin,both of which generate DNA strand breaks, in HeLa cells. Further, Triphala efficiently eliminated reactive oxygenspecies (ROS) in HeLa cells. Thus, the antioxidant activity of Triphala would likely play a role in its protective actionsagainst X-radiation and bleomycin because both agents damage DNA through the generation of ROS. Theseobservations suggested that the radioprotective activity of Triphala can be, at least partly, studied with the cellscultured in vitro. The simple bioassay system with human cultured cells would facilitate the understanding of themolecular basis for the beneficial effects of Triphala.

3 illus, 43 ref

012857   Tadesse S;Ganesan K;Nair S K P;Letha N;Gani S B (Physiology Dep, College Public Health and Medical Sciences, Jimma Univ, Jimma 378, Ethiopia) : Preliminary phytochemical screening of different solvent extracts of leaves and stems of Commelina benghalensis L (Family: commelinaceae). Int J pharm chem biol Sci 2016, 6(1), 103-7.

Medicinal plants are chief antidote for numerous diseases and have been used since time immemorial. Commelina benghalensis L. (Family: Commelinaceae) is a perennial herb commonly known as tropical spiderwort native to tropical Asia and Africa. The present study was aimed to screen the various phytochemicals from the aqueous, methanol, hexane and carbon tetra chloride extracts of leaves and stems of C. benghalensis. The extracts were subjected to qualitative phytochemical screening using standard procedures. Four different extracts of leaves and stems of C. benghalensis were found to contain various secondary metabolites like alkaloids, protein and aminoacids, saponins, total phenols and Tannins. The phytochemicals generated data from the four different extracts of C. benghalensis may be used as tools for quality control of drugs in the future, for the healing of a diversity of disease conditions.

1 table, 13 ref

012856   Tadesse S;Ganesan K;Nair S K P;Letha N;Gani S B (Physiology Dep, College of Public health and Medical Sciences, Jimma Univ, Jimma 378, Ethiopia) : Preliminary phytochemical investigation of different solvent extracts of Centella asiatica L. (Family: apiaceae), and ethiopian weed. Int J pharm chem biol Sci 2016, 6(1), 97-102.

The conventional medicine system engages the exercise of various plant extracts or active principles. Ethno medical studyintenselysignifiesthat one of the greatestopportunityin searching novel cost-effective plants for medication. This investigation generally provides the healthclaim at reasonable price. The present study is aimed to assess the preliminary qualitative and quantitative phytochemical constituents in methanol, hexane and aqueous extracts of Centella asiaticaL. The qualitative preliminary phytochemical screening of methanol, hexane and aqueous extracts showed the presence of alkaloids, saponins, Total phenols and tannins, steroids and absence of remaining secondary metabolites. The total alkaloidsestablishedin the aqueous extract was 2.25 mg/g and total saponin content was FI <60> 100. The phytochemicals recognized in this present investigationcould be utilized as tools for drug quality control obtained fromC.asiaticain the future, for the healing of a diversity - 191 - of disease circumstances.

3 tables, 23 ref

012855   Sundarajan R;Koduru R (Pharmaceutical Chemistry Dep, GITAM Institute of Pharmacy, GITAM Univ, Visakhapatnam-530 045) : In vitro antioxidant activity on roots of Limnophila heterophylla. Free Radical Antioxidant 2016, 6(2), 178-85.

The present study was investigating the antioxidant activity of methanol extract of roots of Limnophila heterophylla (Plantaginaceae). Methods: Roots of methanol extract of Limnophila heterophylla were tested for in vitro free radical scavenging assays, such as hydroxyl radical, antioxidant assay by thiocyanate method, inhibition of superoxide anion radical, 2, 2-diphenyl-1-picryl hydrazyl radical (DPPH), lipid peroxidation assay, scavenging of 2, 2'- azino-bis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulphonic acid) diammonium salt radical cation assay (ABTS), total antioxidant activity (phosphomolybdic acid method) and reducing ability. Limnophila heterophylla roots extract effectively scavenged free radicals at all different concentrations and showed its potent antioxidant activity. Further, these effects were in a dose dependent manner. Results were compared to standard antioxidants such as vitamin E, α-tocopherol, curcumin, quercetin, rutin, butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT), and ascorbic acid. Limnophila heterophylla enclose strong antioxidant potential. Further the study validates the therapeutic benefits of the Indian system of medicine.

9 illus, 1 table, 35 ref

012854   Srinivasan R;Natarajan D;Shivakumar M S; Nagamurugan N (Biotechnology Dep, K.S. Rangasamy College of Arts and Science (Autonomous), Tiruchengode-637 215) : Isolation of fisetin from Elaeganus indica Serv. Bull. (Elaeagnaceae) With antioxidant and antiproliferative activity. Free Radical Antioxidant 2016, 6(2), 145-50.

Eleaegnus indica is a medicinal straggling shrub, belongs to Elaeagnaceae family and reported as potent antimicrobial, anticancer and larvicidal properties. The prime aim of this study was focused on the isolation and characterization of the most active anti-oxidant principle from the acetone leaves extracts of E. indica. The chromatographic and spectral studies were performed in isolation of most active compound 'Fisetin' (a flavonol group) from E. indica. The isolated pure compound was tested for its antioxidant and antiproliferative property (on U-937 and HT-60 cell lines) by adopting standard protocols. The active compound was isolated as yellowish amorphous powder. The structure of the compound was identified by various spectral analysis like LC-MS, CHNS anlysis, UV, FT-IR, 1D (1H and 13C) and 2D NMR (HMBC and HSQC) analysis. The remarkable antioxidant activity was recorded in various assays like NO^∙ (IC₅₀ 39.43 ± 0.28 μg/mL), ∙OH (IC₅₀ 43.91 ± 0.35 μg/mL), - 190 - O₂^∙- (IC₅₀ 48.30 ± 0.67 μg/mL), DPPH^∙ (IC₅₀ 70.32 ± 0.89 μg/mL) and FRAP (EC₅₀ 48.69 ± 1.05 μg/mL). The significant antiproliferative effect of the fisetin was noted on both U-937 (IC₅₀46. 75 ± 3.53 μg/mg) and HT-60 (IC₅₀ 59.46 ± 1.81 μg/mg) cell lines. The present investigation shows that isolated fisetin harbour high antioxidant and antiproliferative potential and provide strong scientific evidence for their medicinal uses, particularly antioxidant and anticancer properties.

4 illus, 2 tables, 41 ref

012853   Soni M M;Patel K R (NO, Gujarat Technological Univ, Gujarat) : Formulation and evaluation of fast dissolving film of Lurasidone HCL. Int J pharm Res Biosci 2016, 5(2), 101-23.

Lurasidone HCl is an atypical antipsychotic drug which is used for the treatment of schizophrenia. Schizophrenia is one of the psychotic mental disorders and characterized by symptoms of thought and social problem. It acts an antagonist at dopamine (D2) and serotonin (5- HT2A and 5-HT7) receptors. Fast dissolving film of Lurasidone HCl were prepared with the purpose of fast dissolving dosage form for very rapid onset of action, faster drug release and provide better patient compliance, which is beneficial in managing several condition like depression, sudden episodes, mentally ill and dysphasia. Developing dosage form was very convenient for the administration without the problem of swallowing and water. Lurasidone HCl is a poorly soluble drug hence to make it solubilise it is formulated as drug- inclusion complex by kneading method using β-cyclodextrin in 1:1 ratio to enhanced the solubility of drug. The inclusion complex was investigated by FTIR, DSC, in- vitro dissolution study and saturation solubility study. Lurasidone HCl fast dissolving films were prepared by using different polymer such as HPMC E5, Pullulan, HPMC E15 and propylene glycol as a plasticizer. The film prepared by solvent casting method. The 3² factorial design was applied for optimization of concentration of pullulan polymer and plasticizer propylene glycol. The prepared film was evaluated by various parameters like thickness, tensile strength, % elongation, folding endurance, disintegration time and in- vitro drug release study. From statistical analysis design, the film (batch F3) with pullulan (1.5%) and propylene glycol (25%) was giving a good disintegration time (30 sec), sufficient tensile strength (0.220) and high % drug release (98.35%). Thus increase the solubility and dissolution rate of Lurasidone HCl helpful to increase the bioavailability and provide immediate action for schizophrenic patients.

15 illus, 10 table, 13 ref

012852   Sinharoy D;Mukhopadhyay D;Palchoudhuri S; Ghosh B;Das S;Dastidar S G (Microbiology Dep, Herbicure Healthcare Bio-Herbal Research Foundation, Saraldighi (E), Borol, Kolkata-700 154) : Distinct antioxidant activity of a common antidepressant drug imipramine. Free Radical Antioxidant 2016, 6(2), 151-4.

Free radicals are known to cause severe damage to most of the biomolecules in the human system and are responsible for various illnesses including neurodegenerative, cardiovascular and autoimmune disorders. Antioxidants can reduce effects of free radicals and are given to patients suffering from such diseases. There are certain natural antioxidants like flavonoids which possess free radical scavenging activities. The flavonoid quercetin is one such compound among naturally occurring antioxidants. The present study has been designed to determine the antioxidant activity in the synthetic antidepressant drug imipramine which is structurally similar to quercetin. Method: Specific standard procedures like ferric ion reducing capacity by FRAP assay, phosphomolybdenum assay and cupric ion reducing (CUPRAC) assay were carried out keeping ascorbic acid as the known standard. Ferric ion reducing property of imipramine by FRAP assay revealed that reducing power of imipramine augmented with increasing amounts of the drug. In the phosphomolybdenum assay antioxidant capacity of imipramine increased in a dose dependent manner. In both these studies imipramine showed greater antioxidant action than ascorbic acid. In CUPRAC assay as the amount of imipramine was increased there was a definite elevation in antioxidant activity; however, it was comparatively less active than ascorbic acid. The highly potent antioxidant property in the antidepressant synthetic compound imipramine may be recognized by physicians involved in treatment of psychosis since patients receiving this drug regularly will certainly be in an advantageous position. The parent structure of imipramine can be modified further to potentiate antioxidant property of the drug.

6 illus, 19 ref

012851   Singh P B (Facherverbund Anatomie, Institute fur Zell-und Neuro-biologie, Charite-Universitatsmedizin, 10117, Berlin, Germnay, Email: prim.siingh@charlie.de) : Heterochromatin and the molecular mechanisms of 'parent-of-origin' effects in animals. J Biosci, Bangalore 2016, 41(4), 759-86.

Twenty five years ago it was proposed that conserved components of constitutive heterochromatin assemble heterochromatinlikecomplexes in euchromatin and this could provide a general mechanism for regulating heritable (cell-to-cell) changesin gene expressibility. As a special case, differences in the assembly of heterochromatin-like complexes on homologouschromosomes might also regulate the parent-of-origin-dependent gene expression observed in placental mammals. Here,the progress made in the intervening period with emphasis on the role of heterochromatin and heterochromatin-likecomplexes in parent-of-origin effects in animals is reviewed.

6 illus, 1 table, 268 ref

012850   Si J;Sun Y;Wang L;Qin Y;Wang C;Wang X (NO, Key Laboratory of Plant Cell Activities and Stress Adaptation, Minist, School of Life Sciences, Lanzhou Uniov) : Functional analyses of Populas euphratica brassinosteriod biosynthesis enzyme gene DWF4(PeDWF4) and CPD (PeCPD) in the regulation of growth and developement of Arabidopsis thaliana. J Biosci, Bangalore 2016, 41(4), 727-42.

DWF4 and CPD are key brassinosteroids (BRs) biosynthesis enzyme genes. To explore the function of Populuseuphratica DWF4 (PeDWF4) and CPD (PeCPD), Arabidopsis thaliana transgenic lines (TLs) expressing PeDWF4,PeCPD or PeDWF4 plus PeCPD, namely PeDWF4-TL, PeCPD-TL and PeCP/DW-TL, were characterized. Comparedwith wild type (WT), the changes of both PeDWF4-TL and PeCPD-TL in plant heights, silique and hypocotylslengths and seed yields were similar, but in bolting time and stem diameters, they were opposite. PeCP/DW-TL wasmore in plant heights and the lengths of primary root, silique, and fruit stalk, but less in silique numbers and seedyields than either PeDWF4-TL or PeCPD-TL. PeDWF4 and PeCPD specially expressed in PeDWF4-TL or PeCPDTL,and the transcription level of PeDWF4 was higher than that of PeCPD. In PeCP/DW-TL, their expressions wereall relatively reduced. Additionally, the expression of PeDWF4 and PeCPD differentially made the expression levelsof AtDWF4, AtCPD, AtBR6OX2, AtFLC, AtTCP1 and AtGA5 change in the TLs. The total BRs contents werePeDWF4-TL <62> PeCP/DW-TL <62> WT <62> - 188 - PeCPD-TL. These results imply that PeDWF4 is functionally not exactly thesame as PeCPD and there may be a synergistic and antagonistic effects in physiology between both of them in theregulation of plant growth and development.

7 illus, 4 table, 58 ref

012849   Shadmani A;Rizwani G H;Ahmed M (Pharmacognosy Dep, Faculty of Pharmacy, Univ of Karachi, Sindh, Pakistan) : Potential analgesic effect of Cissus quadrangularis L. and Lepedium sativum L. along with their combination extracts. Int J pharm chem biol Sci 2017, 7(2), 122-7.

The analgesic activity of methnolic root extract of Cissus quadrangularis l. (CQ) and seed extract of Lepedium sativum l. (LS) were studied in mice along with combination (CL) of CQ and LS at a ratio of 70:30. The analgesic effects were studied by using Tail flick and Hot plate method for tail and hand paw withdrawal time in mice. The extracts were analyzed at doses of 50,100 and 200 mg/kg i. p. The results suggest that the methnolic root extracts of CQ and LS contains some active principles, which possess analgesic activity. While the combination extract showed significantly potent tail flick withdrawal response in mice as compared to diclofenac sodium which was used as standard. Preliminary phytochemical evaluation was also carried out of these extracts. In phytochemical studies of methanol extract of CQ stem revealed the presence of triterpenes including α- amyrins, β- amyrins, β-sitosterol, ketosteroids, phenols, tannins, carotene and vitamin C in a considerable quantities.[1,2,8] While in methanol extract of seeds of LS phytochemical studies showed rich occurrence of primary metabolites such as, carbohydrate, protein, fatty acid and Vitamins: β-carotene, riboflavin, niacin and ascorbic acid, along with volatile oils, fixed oils, flavanoids, isothiocynate glycoside were detected when performed the phytochemical studies.[3,4] The analgesic activity of both the extracts and combination are found significant as compare to normal saline while the result of combination extract CL showed as potent as diclofenac sodium at dose of 50, 100 and 200 mg/kg.

3 illus, 3 table, 31 ref

012848   Saxena A;Gautam S;Arya K R;Singh R K (Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Anusandhan Bhawan, New Delhi, Email: rktox@yahoo.com) : Comparative study of phytochemicals, antioxidative potential & activity of enzymatic antioxidants of Eclipta alba and Plumbago zeylanica by in vitro assays. Free Radical Antioxidant 2016, 6(2), 139-44.

The present study highlights the comparative antioxidant potential and enzymatic contents of both plants along with recent updates on phytochemical contents. The antioxidant potential of the plants was established by DPPH free radical scavenging assay, Nitric oxide (NO) free radical scavenging activity, Hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) scavenging activity, Catalase activity along with determination of Total Phenolic Contents in the plant extracts. The results revealed that Eclipta alba has notable activity than Plumbago zeylanica in quenching of DPPH while Plumbago zeylanica shows comparatively better activity in nitric oxide scavenging, super oxide scavenging and Catalase activity. The Eclipta at 10 μg/ml showed maximum scavenging of DPPH (16.60%), nitric oxide (66.21%), super oxide (4.76%) and Catalase activity 31.9 at 1 mg/g fresh weight against the Plumbago zeylanica which showed maximum scavenging of DPPH 13.24%, Polyherbal extract 11.78%, nitricoxide (69.45%), super oxide (5.12%) and catalase activity 23.7 at 1 mg/g fresh weight respectively at the same concentration. The phytochemical screening of the extract revealed the presence of considerable amount of alkaloids, saponins, tannins, phenolic compounds and glycosides which might be responsible for the antioxidative potential of the selected plants. The results of this study strongly indicate that the Plumbago zeylanica has comparatively more potent antioxidant potential than Eclipta alba. Moreover, the study reveals that polyherbal extract for the very first time for this combination have shown a strong antioxidant activity which is directly correlated with suppression of free radical induced diseases i.e. cancer. These findings encourage studying these plants and their polyherbal extracts further as a potential agents against cancer.

5 illus, 2 tables, 39 ref

012847   Satsangi N;Singh O P;Shabad Preet (Zoology Dep, Faculty of Science, Dayalbagh Educational Institute, Dayalbagh, Agra-282 005) : Microwave assisted green synthesis of silver nanoparticles using aqueous leaf extract of Callistemon citrinus: A novel approach for integrated mosquito management. Int J pharm Res Biosci 2016, 5(1), 96-110.

Nanotechnology is gaining interest in biomedical domain due to - 186 - their appealing application in pests and parasites control. Over the years, mosquitoes transmit life-threatening diseases like malaria, dengue, yellow fever, filariasis, etc. affecting more than 100 countries across the world. Natural pesticides are promising alternatives for eradicating nuisance mosquitoes, as they are helpful in evading toxic chemical applications, hence, maintaining integrity of environment. In this study silver nanoparticles were synthesized from aqueous silver nitrate (1mM) through an easy, microwave assisted biodegradable route using leaf broth of Callistemon citrinus as reductant and stabilizer. Synthesis of bioreduced silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) was confirmed by UV-Vis spectrophotometer at the range of 300-700nm and subsequent characterization by scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction and fourier transform infra-red spectroscopy. The resulted nanoparticles provided elevated monodisperse character with a range of 30-80nm particle sizes. Larvicidal activity of these green synthesized AgNPs was tested on III instar larvae of mosquito species Anopheles stephensi. The LC50 and LC₉₀ values of AgNPs against An. stephensi larvae after 24hrs exposure were 3.72 and 59.91ppm respectively. Hitherto, this is the first report on silver nanoparticle synthesis using extract of this plant.

7 illus, 1 table, 33 ref

012846   Santra S;Sinha A;Mondal C (Chemical Engineering Dep, Jadavpur Univ, Kolkata, West Bengal) : Effect of herbal plant (Tulsi) against Common disease in gold fish, Carassius auratus (Linn. 1758). Int J latest Technol Engng Mgmt appl Sci 2017, 6(2), 29-31.

The Herbs (medicinal plants) are widely used by the traditional medical practitioners for curing various diseases in their day-to-day practice. These herbal plants are easily available in our surrounding area. Generally it is found, Gold fishes are frequently effected from microbes, bacterial, fungal, parasite etc. Disease fish were collected from ornamental Fish Farm. Collected fishes were feed with garlic supplemented feed and normal feed. Separately Tulsi (Ocimum Sanctum) dust was added to normal feed and prepared feed was applied the aquarium containing disease-affected Gold fishes (Carassius auratus L.). Experimental trial was continued for 8 weeks consecutively to observe the development of immunity against the common pathogens. Result shows that the after treatment fish were healthy and energetic.

2 tables, 15 ref

012845   Santhi N;Sasivathanam N;Nirmala Devi K;Begum A A;Vanitha K;Fathima S S A (Biochemistry Dep, K.A.P.V Government Medical College, Tiruchirapalli, Email: shara29m@gmail.com) : Serum level of adipocyte fatty acid binding protein in obesity. J med Sci Hlth 2017, 3(1), 7-11.

Obesity is a chronic nutritional disorder characterized by excess accumulation of adipose tissue. Adipose tissues being energy depots also act as an endocrine organ and secrete adipokines. Adipocyte fatty acid binding protein (AFABP) is a newer adipokine associated with obesity and metabolic syndrome. The aim of the study is to measure serum level of AFABP in obese individuals and to compare it with lean individuals. Further, to analyze the correlation between AFABPs with insulin resistance. Study group included 50 obese individuals, aged 30-50 years whose body mass index (BMI) is <62>30 kg/m² and the control group included 50 healthy lean individuals age and sex matched whose BMI <60> 25 kg/m2. Assay of serum AFABP and insulin were done using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay method. Plasma blood glucose was estimated by semi auto analyzer. The mean AFABP level in the study group (31.27 ± 5.04) was significantly high when compared to the control group (16.07 ± 1.10). Pearson's correlation revealed positive correlation with insulin resistance (r = 0.371). The study showed increase in level of AFABP in obese individuals compared to control group. It also showed with increase in mean level of serum AFABP concentration there is increased insulin resistance. Insulin resistance places a role in connecting obesity with metabolic syndrome. Hence, adipocyte fatty acid binding protein can be taken as marker of obesity and a predictor of metabolic syndrome. Hence, it can be targeted therapeutically in future.

2 table, 20 ref

012844   Saharia K;Ranjeet Kumar;Gupta K;Mishra S; Subramaniam J R (Biological Sciences and Bioengineering Dep, Indian Institute of Technology, Kanpur-208 016, Email: jamuna17@sriramachandra.edu.in) : Reserpine require the D2-type receptor, dop-3 and the exoribonuclease, eri-1 to extend the lifespan in C. elegans. J Biosci, Bangalore 2016, 41(4), 689-95.

Lifespan extension is an all systems encompassing event. Involvement of reduced insulin/IGF1 signalling is wellworked out, first in the model organism Caenorhbaditis elegans followed by other systems including humans. But therole of neuronal component in lifespan extension is not well understood due to the refractory nature of neurons tosmall RNA interference (sRNAi) in C. elegans. Earlier, we have demonstrated that an antihypertensive drug,reserpine, extends lifespan through modulation of neurotransmitter release, especially, acetylcholine, in C. elegans.Intriguingly, the reserpine mediated lifespan extension (RMLE) does not happen through the known longevitypathways. Here, we report that the D2-type dopamine receptor (DOP-3), which acts through the inhibitory G-protein coupled (Gα_i) pathway mediated signalling is partly required for RMLE. In the dop-3 loss of function mutant RMLE is shortened. DOP-3 acts through Gα₀ (goa-1). One of the downstream targets of G protein signalling is thetranscription factor, jun-1. MRP-1, an ATP binding cassette transporter, belonging to the multidrug resistance proteinfamily is one of the genes turned on by JUN-1. RMLE is shortened in dop-3 → goa-1 → jun-1 → mrp-1 loss of functionmutants, elucidating the contribution of dop-3 signalling. The dop-3 receptor system is known to inhibit acetylcholinerelease. This suggests dopamine receptor, dop-3 could be contributing to the modulation of acetylcholine release byreserpine. ERI-1 is a 3'-5' exoribonuclease, one of the negative regulators of sRNAi, whose loss of function makesneurons amenable to siRNA. In the absence of eri-1, RMLE is shortened. In the dop-3 loss-of-function background,lack of eri-1 completely abolishes RMLE. This suggests that dop-3 and eri-1 act in independent parallel pathways forRMLE and these two pathways are essential and sufficient for the longevity enhancement by reserpine in C. elegans.

5 illus, 1 table, 25 ref

012843   Ramesh V;Meenakshi S;jyothirmayee N;Rajeswari G;Madhavi D;Bullebbai M (Pharmacy DEp, St.Mary's Group of Institution, Guntur, Andrapradesh) : Enhancement of solubility for poorly water soluble drugs by using solid dispersion technology. Int J pharm Res Biosci 2016, 5(2), 47-74.

Solid dispersions have attracted considerable interest as an efficient means of improving the dissolution rate and hence the bioavailability of a range of poorly water-soluble drugs. Solid dispersions of poorly water-soluble drugs with watersoluble carriers has reduced the incidence of these problems and enhanced dissolution. The focus of this review article is on the advantages, limitations, various methods of preparation and characterization of the solid dispersion. The different types of solid dispersions based on their molecular arrangement have been highlighted. Some of the practical aspects to be considered for the preparation of solid dispersions, such as selection of carrier and methods of physicochemical characterization have also been discussed. In this review, it is intended to discuss the future prospects related to the area of solid dispersion manufacturing. Improving oral bioavailability of drugs those given as solid dosage forms remains a challenge for the - 184 - formulation scientists due to solubility problems. The dissolution rate could be the rate-limiting process in the absorption of a drug from a solid dosage form of relatively insoluble drugs. Therefore increase in dissolution of poorly soluble drugs by solid dispersion technique presents a challenge to the formulation scientists. Solid dispersion techniques have attracted considerable interest of improving the dissolution rate of highly lipophilic drugs thereby improving their bioavailability by reducing drug particle size, improving wettability and forming amorphous particles. The term solid dispersion refers to a group of solid products consisting of at least two different components, generally a hydrophilic inert carrier or matrix and a hydrophobic drug. This article reviews historical background of solid dispersion technology, limitations, classification, and various preparation techniques with its advantages and disadvantages. This review also discusses the recent advances in the field of solid dispersion technology. Based on the existing results and authors' reflection, this review give rise to reasoning and suggested choices of carrier or matrix and solid dispersion procedure.

2 table, 53 ref

012842   Raman S T;Ganeshan A K P G;Chen C;Jin C;Li S H;Chen H J;Gui Z (School of Biotechnology, Jiangsu Univ of Science and Technology, Zhenjiang 212018, Jiangsu Province, P.R. China, Email: srizzgui@hotmail.com) : In vitro and in vivo antioxidant activity of flavonoid extracted from mulberry fruit (Morus alba L.). Pharmacog Mag 2016, 12(46), 128-33.

Many plants possess antioxidants that exhibit additive or synergistic activities. In this study, an ethanol-extracted flavonoid extracted from mulberry fruit (FEM) was evaluated for the antioxidant activity in vitro and the hemolysis in red blood cell (RBC) and lipid peroxidation in liver in vivo. Antioxidant activities in vitro were measured by quantifying its 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) scavenging activity, reducing power, and Fe2+-chelating ability. FEM inhibits hemolysis in RBCs and effects of lipid peroxidation in the liver were estimated. The total content of flavonoid compounds was 187.23 mg of quercetin equivalents per grams dried material. In the in vitro assays, FEM demonstrated a strong antioxidant effect, especially in DPPH scavenging activity and reducing power. Mouse RBC hemolysis induced by H₂O₂was significantly inhibited by FEM in a dose- and time-dependent manner. The effects of FEM on lipid peroxidation in liver, mitochondria, and microsome were investigated. The percentage of inhibition at high concentration (100 μg/mL) of FEM was 45.51%, 39.36%, and 42.78% for liver, mitochondria, and microsomes, respectively. These results suggest that the FEM possesses a strong antioxidant activity both in vivo and in vitro.

5 illus, 2 tables, 40 ref

012841   Raghavan P S;Gupta G D;Rajaram H;Vinay Kumar (Molecular Biology Divison, Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, Trombay, Mumabi-400 085, Email: gagan@barc.gov.in) : Characterisation of a DUF820 family protein Alr3200 of the cyanobacterium Anabaena spp. strain PCC7120. J Biosci, Bangalore 2016, 41(4), 589-600.

The hypothetical protein 'Alr3200' of Anabaena sp. strain PCC7120 is highly conserved among cyanobacterialspecies. It is a member of the DUF820 (Domain of Unknown Function) protein family, and is predicted to have aDNase domain. Biochemical analysis revealed a Mg(II)-dependent DNase activity for Alr3200 with a specific activityof 8.62 x 10⁴ Kunitz Units (KU) mg^-1 protein. Circular dichroism analysis predicted Alr3200 to have <126>40% β-strandsand <126>9% α-helical structures. Anabaena PCC7120 inherently expressed Alr3200 at very low levels, and its overexpressionhad no - 183 - significant effect on growth of Anabaena under control conditions. However, Analr3200⁺, therecombinant Anabaena strain overexpressing Alr3200, exhibited zero survival upon exposure to 6 kGy of γ-radiation, which is the LD₅₀ for wild type Anabaena PCC7120 as well as the vector control recombinant strain, AnpAM. Comparative analysis of the two recombinant Anabaena strains suggested that it is not the accumulated Alr3200 perse, but its possible interactions with the radiation-induced unidentified DNA repair proteins of Anabaena, whichhampers DNA repair resulting in radiosensitivity.

5 illus, 2 table, 32 ref

012840   Pramitha V S;Sree Kumari N (Biotechnology Dep, Udaya College of Arts & Science, Udaya Nagar, Vellamodi-629 204) : Anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, phytochemical and GC-MS analysis of marine brown macroalga, Sargassum wighti. Int J pharm chem biol Sci 2016, 6(1), 7-15.

Marine brown alga, Sargassumwightiiextracts was analyzedfor the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activity by in vitromethods and the active ethyl acetate fraction has been subjected to GCMS analysis. At 50 μg/ml RBCs membrane showed an inhibition of 55.7% followed by methanol (54.3%) and hexane (52.2%), whereas in hypotonicity induced haemolysis, it is found toprotect the erythrocyte membrane against lysis induced by hypotonic solution compared to diclofenac sodium, a standard drug. It also showed maximum inhibition of 52.9% compared to methanol and hexane in its proteinase and albumin denaturationtest (70.8%) at 50 μg/ml. Free radical scavenging assay showed that ethyl acetate extract has significant scavenging effect on DPPH (64.9%) at 200 μg/ml. GC-MS analysis revealed that ethyl acetate fraction of S. wightii contains seventeen compounds and some of the major compounds detected wereBromoacetic acid, hexadecyl ester (94.98%),1,4-Eicosadiene (87.16%), Eicosane (73.97%), 6-Octadecenoic acid, (Z)- (72.17%), n-Hexadecanoic acid (62.97%), Benzene, 1,2-dimethoxy-4-(1-propenyl)- (62.92%), Stigmasta-5,24(28)-dien-3-ol, (3.beta)- (61.06%), Pyrrolo[1,2-a]pyrazine-1,4-dione, hexahydro-3- (Phenyl methyl)- (56.62%) 2(1H)- Pyrimidinone, 4-amino-5-methyl-(41.97%) and 4-Methoxy-3- Propoxy-Benzaldehyde (40.18%).

3 tables, 34 ref

012839   Potukuchi A;Addepally U;Upadrashta M;Nagalla B;Manchala R (Endocrinology and Metabolism Division, National Institute of Nutrition, IST, JNTU (H), Hyderabad) : High sucrose diet feeding aggravates age related changes in oxidative stress and antioxidant status of WNIN/Gr-Ob obese rats. Int J Med Hlth Sci 2017, 6(3), 144-50.

Ageing is a multifactorial process in which physical and physiological changes accumulate over time, leading to gradual deterioration and death. Obesity and T2DM (Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus) per se accelerate ageing but the underlying mechanisms are not clear yet, nor it is known whether superimposing T2DM on obesity accelerates ageing further. The present study validated the hypothesis, "Induction of T2DM in obese rats by feeding high sucrose diet accelerates ageing by aggravating oxidative stress and/or compromising the antioxidant status ". WNIN/Gr-Ob rats, an established obese rat model was fed with high sucrose diet for the induction of T2DM/aggravated insulin resistance (IR), a pre-diabetic condition. Oxidative stress and antioxidant markers were determined in the liver homogenates by spectrophotometric methods. Induction of T2DM/aggravation of insulin - 182 - resistance (IR) in WNIN/Gr-Ob obese rats by feeding High Sucrose Diet (HSD) significantly increased tissue oxidative stress (protein carbonyls) and decreased antioxidant status: enzymatic (superoxide dismutase and catalase) and non-enzymatic (reduced glutathione) after six months of feeding, as compared to those of control rats fed starch based diet (SBD). Taken together with our recent report of aggravated insulin resistance, increased DNA damage and decreased telomere length in the brains of HSD fed obese rats, the present findings suggest that feeding HSD aggravated ageing associated systemic oxidative stress perhaps due to impaired anti oxidant status and may underlie the aggravated insulin resistance, which in turn accelerated their ageing.

2 illus, 34 ref

012838   Patil A N;Chaudhary S;Shah H (NO, Arihant School of Pharmacy and Bio research Institute, Adalaj, Gandhinagar, Gujarat) : Formulation and evaluation of levocetrizine dihydrochloride soft gel for oral administration. Int J pharm Res Biosci 2016, 5(2), 178-98.

Inconvenience of administration and patient compliance are at prime importance in the design of dosage forms. Levocetrizine dihydrochloride is administered orally to treat the allergic conditions like rihinitis, runny nose, skin rashesh etc. The objective of this study was to develop Levocetrizine dihydrochloride soft gel using the taste masking ability of beta cyclodextrin and Gellan gum as a gelling agent, citric acid as a source of cation. Gels are formed by aggregation of polymers with minimum two components; the gelling agent and the fluid component. Different batches were prepared using three different concentrations of Gellan gum (0.3, 0.4, and 0.5%) each wih three different pullulan concentration (0.1, 0.2 and 0.3%). The consistency of gellan gum gel was dependent on the concentration of, pullulan, citric acid and co-solute. The results of dissolution study of soft gel (OG7) containing 0.4% Gellan gum and 0.2% pullulan revealed that Levocetrizine dihydrochloride was 89% released in 20 min. and possessed acceptable sensory characteristics when evaluated by A new bio-mimicking apparatus proposed for taste assessment.Short term stability study carried out for four weeks at different temperatures (0-8°C and room temperature) showed no considerable changes in performance characteristics of developed optimized formulation.

7 illus, 12 table, 51 ref

012837   Patel S V;Patel M S (NO, Gujarat Technological Univ, Gujarat) : Formulation and evaluation of sustained release pellets of Bosentan HCL. Int J pharm Res Biosci 2016, 5(2), 124-42.

The objective of present study was develop Bosentan HCl pellets, sustained release Dosage form, for the treatment of pulmonary arterial hypertension Diseases. Drug Excipients Compatibility study was performed through FTIR and DSC revealed that there no interaction between drug and polymers. Pellets were prepared by Extrusion-Spheronization technique using different Concentration of HPMC K 100, Eudragit RS 100, and Eudragit RL 100. Prepared formulation was subjected to Evaluation - 181 - parameter like Bulk density, Tapped density, Hausner' ratio, Carr's index, Angle of repose, % yields of pellets, %drug loading, %Friability, Mean particle size. In vitro dissolution study in 0.1 N HCl (pH 1.2) for first 2 hours followed by phosphate buffer (pH 6.8) for remaining 10 hours. The optimized formulation batch (F₆) on the basis of acceptable pellets properties and In vitro drug release study F₆ batch was found to 99.1% drug release at 12 hour. The formulation meet the needed theoretical drug release profile and has the sustain action i.e. retarding the drug release so the release is for the long time.

13 illus, 16 table, 9 ref

012836   Patel D;Saraf M (Microbiology and Biotechnology Dep, School of Sciences Univ, Gujarat Univ, Ahmedabad, Gujarat) : ABC transporter protein from Pseudomonas pseudoalcaligenes involved in improved plant growth under salt stress. Archiv appl Sci Res 2017, 9(1), 13-22.

Bacterial isolate Pseudomonas pseudoalcaligenes was isolated from the saline areas of Gujarat. This isolate showed efficient production of PGPR attributes like phosphate solubilization, Siderophore production and IAA production under salinity stress both in vivo and in vitro. Field studies revealed that they have the potential to increase vegetative growth of Jatropha curcas plant under salinity stress, and increase the soil fertility. To understand the mechanism of salt tolerance, proteome analysis of Pseudomonas was carried out using SDS PAGE. Salt stress proteins associated with cell membrane were analyzed by MALDITOF. This technique was used to investigate the regulation of gene product expression of P. pseudoalcaligenes grown under high osmolarity. Peptide mass fingerprinting and in silico investigation was used to identify proteins with altered expression. Among them one newly induced protein was assigned to protein with known function. Bioinformatics tools were then employed to identify the protein to understand the proteomics of salt stress in the bacteria. The protein showed high homology to the enzyme, ABC transporter, and iron.B12.siderophore. hemin, ATP-binding component.

7 illus, 2 tables, 37 ref

012835   Patel C M;Sinha V K (Indusirial Chemistry Dep, V.P.&R.P.T.Science College, Vallabh Vidyanagar, Gujarat) : Liquefied Nicotiana tabacum stalks derived polyurethane wood adhesives as a new particle board adhesive system. Archiv appl Sci Res 2017, 9(1), 36-43.

Bio-based polyol (ester, ether) are used for the preparation of polyurethane (PU) adhesives, which were synthesized from tobacco stem and nontraditional oil by transesterification reaction. These prepared polyols were reacted with isocyanates adduct to form a PU adhesive, where different NCO/OH ratios were used to give various compositions. The polyols and PUs were characterized by FTIR spectroscopy and further TGA was used for the analysis of thermal properties. The tobacco stem based PU adhesives had comparable or better adhesive properties in terms of lap shear strength than the commercial adhesives. The effect of the NCO/ OH ratio on adhesive characteristics on wood bonding was also evaluated by lap shear tests. The change in lap shear strength before and after exposure to cold water, hot water, acid, and alkali were evaluated. The resultant formulated PU adhesive from agricultural waste was comparable to the commercially available adhesive.

6 illus, 7 tables, 27 ref

012834   Okada Y;Okada M (Laboratory on Ageing and Health Management, Graduate School of Nursing and Health, Tohgoku, Kamishidami, Moriyama, Nagoya, 463-8502, Email: yolage@nrs.aichi-pu.ac.jp) : In vitro screening on amyloid beta modulation of aqueous extracts from plant seeds. J Pharm Bioallied Sci 2016, 8(2), 141-5.

Glycation process might contribute to both extensive protein cross-linking and oxidative stress in Alzheimer's disease (AD). The amyloid-like aggregation of glycated bovine serum albumin induces apoptosis in the neuronal cell. Dietary supplementation of antioxidants, vitamins, and polyphenols are beneficial to AD, and consumption of fruits and vegetables reduce the risk of AD. We conducted a screening of 14 aqueous extracts from plant seeds (PSAE) for inhibitory activity on amyloid beta (Aβ). To examine the effects of PSAE on the Aβ (1-42) concentration, PSAE were analyzed by Aβ (1-42) enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Furthermore, we carried out an antiglycation experiment of PSAE and an antiaggregation experiment of PSAE to confirm the modification mechanism of PSAE. PSAE were added to buffer containing D-ribose and albumins. The solutions were incubated at 37°C for 10 days. After incubation, the products were assayed on a fluorophotometer. PSAE associated differential reduction in the levels of Aβ (1-42) (lettuce; 98.7% ± 2.4%, bitter melon; 95.9% ± 2.6%, and corn; 93.9% ± 2.1%), demonstrating that treatment with lettuce seeds extracts (LSE) effectively decreases Aβ (1-42) concentration. Among the 14 PSAE, LSE exhibited the second greatest potential for antiglycation. Inhibition of aggregates was not recognized in LSE. These results suggest that LSE reduces the toxicity of Aβ by modifying Aβ.

3 illus, 1 table, 17 ref

012833   Oblak E;Piecuch A;Maciaszcyk-Dziubinska E; Wamrzycka D (NO, Institute of Genetica and Microbiology and Institute of Experimental B, Wroclaw, Poland, Email: ewa.oblak@uwr.edu.pl) : Quaternary ammonium salt N-(dodecyloxycarboxymethyl)- N,N,N-trimethyl ammonium chloride induced alterations in Saccharomyces Cerevisiae physiology. J Biosci, Bangalore 2016, 41(4), 601-14.

Authors were investigated the influence of the quaternary ammonium salt (QAS) called IM (N-(dodecyloxycarboxymethyl)-N,N,N-trimethyl ammonium chloride) on yeast cells of the parental strain and the IM-resistant mutant (EO25 IM^R)growth. The phenotype of this mutant was pleiotropic. The IM^R mutant exhibited resistance to ethanol, osmotic shockand oxidative stress, as well as increased sensitivity to UV. Moreover, it was noted that mutant EO25 appears to havean increased resistance to clotrimazole, ketoconazole, fluconazole, nystatin and cycloheximide. It also toleratedgrowth in the presence of crystal violet, DTT and metals (selenium, tin, arsenic). It was shown that the presence ofIM decreased ergosterol level in mutant plasma membrane and increased its unsaturation. These results indicatechanges in the cell lipid composition. Western blot analysis showed the induction of Pma1 level by IM. RT-PCRrevealed an increased PMA1 expression after IM treatment.

8 illus, 3 table, 68 ref

012832   Nezami S;Joseph K;Ahsan A;Aparna LVS;Sharma S R;Jha S K (Bio-engineering Dep, Birla Institute of Technology, Mesra, Ranchi-835 215) : Screening of commercially important halophilic microbial community for bioactive compounds. Int J pharm chem biol Sci 2016, 6(3), 309-21.

The importance of antibiotics was well established with the discovery of penicillin in the year 1928. The discovery of many such antibiotics paved way for a better and increased life span. Unfortunately the development of multiple drug resistance in microbes has led to these bio active compounds rendering useless. Thus the search for novel microorganisms producing bio active compounds has become of great importance. Extreme environments are those which were once considered unfavourable for the growth of microbes. But these environments too harbour a number of microbes producing novel bio active compounds. The Sambhar Salt Lake is India's largest salt lake located 96km south west of the city of Jaipur. In this study some halotolerant and halophilic strains of bacteria were isolated from the water and soil samples of the Sambhar Lake. These strains can grow in Nutrient media with different salt (NaCl) concentrations. Microbial assemblages and their species distributions in specific environments are mostly determined by their specific environmental conditions, which may translate into novel chemistry. Morphological, physiological and biochemical characteristics of these strains were studied by optimizing their growth conditions such as pH, salt concentration and temperature. It was found that the six isolated samples grew best in salt concentrations of 11% and at an optimum temperature of 45°C. They were found to be Gram negative, rod shaped and motile bacteria. Upon conducting tests for bio active compound production it was found that they produced bio active compounds against certain bacteria and fungi. Further analysis is needed in future to explore the type of bioactive compounds by the isolated microbes, the knowledge of which can lead to discovery of various products that may of medicinal as well as industrial use.

12 illus, 1 table, 51 ref

012831   Muazu S A;Channya F K;Chimbekujwo I B;Tukur K U;Fauziya K M;Samuel K B (Biological Sciences Dep, Taraba State Univ, Jalingo, Nigeria) : Effect of aqueous and ethanol extract of Citrus paradisi on fungi rots of banana (M. acuminata L) in Jalingo, Taraba state. Archiv appl Sci Res 2017, 9(1), 1-6.

Studies on isolation and identification of fungi associated with banana rots were carried out. The effect of aqueous and ethanol extract of Citrus paradisi were determined in vitro on causative agents of post-harvest rot of banana. Concentrations of 20, 40 and 60% of both aqueous and ethanol extract of Citrus paradisi were used. The treatments were laid out in - 178 - Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with three replications. Rhizoctonia solani, Rhizopus stolonifer, Colletotrichum musae and Pyricularia grisea were isolated and identified to be associated with the banana rots. Rhizoctonia solani has the highest frequency of occurrence with 37.50% followed by Rhizopus stolonifer with 26.25% and the least was Pyricularia grisea with 17.50%. Concentrations of both aqueous and ethanol extract (20, 40 60%), significantly (p< 0.05) inhibited radial mycelial growth of the fungi compared with the control. All citric extracts at varying concentrations were effective in reducing the mycelial growth and the effect was proportional to the concentration of the extract. The inhibition was highest at 60% concentration and lowest at 20% concentration. Both Aqueous and ethanol extract suppressed the growth of all the fungal isolates, but the ethanolic extract showed higher inhibition on fungal isolates. The study revealed that both aqueous and ethanol extract have antifungal properties to control banana rot caused by Rhizoctonia solani, Rhizopus stolonifer, Colletotrichum musae and Pyricularia grisea which serves as good option to synthetic fungicide which are hazardous and often costly.

3 tables, 39 ref

012830   Mohana M;Padma P R (Biochemistry Biotechnology and Bioinformatics Dep, Avinsjilingam Institute for Home Science and Higher Education for Wome, Coimbatore-641 043) : Effect of the bacoside fraction from Bacopa monnieri againts oxidative stress induced apoptosis in untransformed (Buccal) and transformed (KB oral carcinoma) cells. Int J pharm Res Biosci 2016, 5(2), 75-88.

Apoptosis poses a barrier against cancer formation by eliminating pre-cancerous cells from survival and multiplication. Herbal medicines are of special interest because of their lower toxicities. The plant chosen for the present study is Bacopa monnieri. Bacopa monnieri is a creeping perennial with small oblong leaves and purple flowers, found in warm wetlands. The entire plant is used medicinally. In the present study, the effect of bacoside fraction at a concentration of 50μg/ml was studied on the apoptotic events under oxidative stress induced conditions. The anticancer effect of the bacoside fraction was studied in an oral carcinoma (KB) cell line. The primary cultures of human buccal cells were as a control. The extent of cell death, and the events associated with it, was studied, both in the presence and the absence of an oxidizing standard chemotherapeutic agent, namely etoposide. The results clearly proved that bacoside fraction exhibits a differential effect between the non-cancerous and cancerous cells, in that, it protects the non-cancerous buccal cells from etoposide-induced cell death, while rendering the cancerous KB cells more susceptible to the chemotherapeutic agent.

6 illus, 1 table, 31 ref

012829   Mello B T F;Zempulski D A;Cardozo-Filho L; Silva C (Programa de Pos-graduacao em Engenharia Quimica, Universidade Estadual de Maringa, Av. Colombo 5790, Maringa, PR, - 177 - 87020-900, Brazil, Email: camiladasilva.eq@gmail.com) : Hydrolysis of canola oil under subcritical conditions for biodiesel synthesis. Asian J Chem 2017, 29(2), 398-402.

This study presents the synthesis of canola hydrolyzate for the production of biodiesel using subcritical water. The reactions were conducted in continuous mode evaluating the effects of temperature, pressure and the oil to water mass ratio at different residence times. A pressure increase from 10 to 15 MPa, favoured the production of higher levels of free fatty acids. The free fatty acid formation was directly proportional to the temperature increase in the experimental range evaluated and high yields were obtained at low residence times. The use of larger amounts of water in the reaction mixture provided the greatest formation of free fatty acids; however, the use of oil to water mass ratios above 1:2 had no significant effects (p <62> 0.05) on the free fatty acids content, possibly because the reaction reached equilibrium conditions. Free fatty acids yields of about 90% for an oil to water mass ratio of 1:2, 15 MPa, 305 °C and 9.5 min of reaction are reported.

5 illus, 1 table, 36 ref

012828   Meira C S;et al. (Centro de Pesquisas Gongcalo Moniz, Fundacao Oswaldo Cruz (FIOCRUZ), Salvasor, BA, Brazil, Email: milena@bahia.fiocruz.br) : Chemical composition and Antiparasitic activity of essential oils from leaves of Guatteria friesiana and Guatteria pogonopus (Annonaceae). J essential Oil Res 2017, 29(2), 156-62.

Natural products represent a valuable source for discovery of antiparasitic agents. Here, we describe the antiparasitic activity from essential oils extracted from leaves of Guatteria friesiana (EOGF) and Guatteria pogonopus (EOGP) (Annonaceae). The essential oils were obtained by hydrodistillation and analyzed by GC/MS and GC-FID. The sesquiterpenes are more abundant in both essential oils. G. friesiana are dominated by β-eudesmol (51.9%), μ-eudesmol (18.9%) andα-eudesmol (12.6%). The major compounds identified for EOGP were spathulenol (24.8%), μ-amorphene (14.7%) and germacrene D (11.8%). The essential oils demonstrated potent trypanocidal and antimalarial activities with values of IC₅₀ lower than 41.3 μg/mL. EOGF also inhibits the proliferation of amastigotes. In addition, we identified significant ultrastructural alterations induced by the essential oils, especially in the cell membrane, Golgi complex, endoplasmatic reticulum and mitochondria. The results presented herein reinforce the potential of other members of this family for search of antiparasitic compounds.

2 illus, 2 table, 26 ref