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Showing papers in "Chronicles of Young Scientists in 2011"


Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: The presented review provides information relating to the calculation of the limit of detection and limit of quantitation.
Abstract: The quality of an analytical method developed is always appraised in terms of suitability for its intended purpose, recovery, requirement for standardization, sensitivity, analyte stability, ease of analysis, skill subset required, time and cost in that order. It is highly imperative to establish through a systematic process that the analytical method under question is acceptable for its intended purpose. Limit of detection (LOD) and limit of quantification (LOQ) are two important performance characteristics in method validation. LOD and LOQ are terms used to describe the smallest concentration of an analyte that can be reliably measured by an analytical procedure. There has often been a lack of agreement within the clinical laboratory field as to the terminology best suited to describe this parameter. Likewise, there have been various methods for estimating it. The presented review provides information relating to the calculation of the limit of detection and limit of quantitation. Brief information about differences in various regulatory agencies about these parameters is also presented here.

2,264 citations


Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: This document is aimed to describing the potential benefits of the Moringa tree as a nutrient, which can be utilized in treating the malnutrition in a local and cost-effective manner.
Abstract: This document is aimed to describing the potential benefits of the Moringa tree as a nutrient. Moringa tree can be utilized in treating the malnutrition in a local and cost-effective manner. Malnutrition causes a great deal of human suffering and is associated with more than half of all deaths of children worldwide. Malnutrition severely affects the socio-economic development of a nation because a work force that is stunted both mentally and physically may have a reduced work capacity. Thus nutrition plays an important role in the reproduction of poverty from one generation to the next. Not only is the Moringa oleifera tree extraordinary in that all parts of the tree are edible, but the most amazing aspect of the tree is its exceptionally high nutritional value. The leaves of the Moringa tree are an excellent source of vitamin A, vitamin B vitamin C and other minerals. The leaves are also an outstanding source of calcium, protein, potassium and iron. The content of amino acids such as methionine and cystine is also high. Carbohydrates, fats and phosphorous content are low making this one of the finest plant foods to be found. Present review focuses on the potential benefits of Moringa oleifera in treatment of malnutrition.

89 citations


Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: The present investigation demonstrates that by virtue of its antioxidant property and presence of the flavanoids content in C. sativus may responsible for wound contraction and elevated rate of epithelization in wound healing in laboratory animals.
Abstract: Aim: The aim of present investigation was to formulate and evaluate the ameliorative effect of aqueous extract of Cucumis sativus L. fruit cream formulation on experimentally induced wounds in rats. Materials and Methods: The cream was formulated using soft white paraffin base containing 2.5%, 5%, and 10% w/w of aqueous extract of of Cucumis sativus L. fruit. Excision wounds of size 300 mm 2 and 2 mm depth were used for the study of rate of contraction of wound and epithelization. All the three formulations were evaluated for various pharmaceutical parameters such as pH, viscosity, spreadability, and acute skin irritation study. Epithelialization period, wound contraction, scar width, and histopathological evaluation parameters were used for pharmacological evaluation of wound healing activity of the formulation. Statistical Analysis: All the results were expressed as mean±SEM. Data analysis was performed using GraphPad Prism 5.0 software (GraphPad, San Diego, CA, USA). Statistical comparisons were made between drug-treated groups and disease control animals. Data of disease activity index were analyzed using one-way analysis of variance; Dunnett's multiple range test was applied for post hoc analysis, whereas data of wound area and percent wound contraction were analyzed using two-way repeated analysis of variance, Bonferroni's multiple range test was applied for post hoc analysis. A value of P Results: Cream formulation of AECS when applied topically did not show any sign and symptoms of skin irritation. The treatment with aqueous extract of C. sativus fruit cream formulation (2.5%, 5%, and 10% w/w) resulted in significance decrease ( P P P P Conclusion: The present investigation demonstrates that by virtue of its antioxidant property and presence of the flavanoids content in C. sativus may responsible for wound contraction and elevated rate of epithelization in wound healing in laboratory animals.

46 citations


Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: Alstonia scholaris (L.) R.Br (Apocynaceae) is an evergreen tropical tree native to Indian sub-continent and South East Asia, having grayish rough bark and milky sap rich in poisonous alkaloid.
Abstract: Complementary therapies based on herbal medicines are the world's oldest form of medicine and recent reports suggest that such therapies still enjoy vast popularity, especially in developing countries where most of the population does not have easy access to modern medicine. Alstonia scholaris (L.) R.Br (Apocynaceae) is an evergreen tropical tree native to Indian sub-continent and South East Asia, having grayish rough bark and milky sap rich in poisonous alkaloid. It is reported to contain various iridoids, alkaloids, coumarins, flavonoids, leucoanthocyanins, reducing sugars, simple phenolics, steroids, saponins and tannins. It has been reported to possess antimicrobial, antiamoebic, antidiarrheal, antiplasmodial, hepatoprotective, immunomodulatory, anticancer, antiasthmatic, free radical scavenging, antioxidant, analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antiulcer, antifertility and wound healing activities. In other parts of the world, it is used as a source cure against bacterial infection, malarial fever, toothache, rheumatism, snakebite, dysentery, bowl disorder, etc. Reports on the pharmacological activities of many isolated constituents from A. scholaris (L.) R.Br are lacking, which warrants further pharmacological studies.

27 citations


Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: Alginate and chitosan are commonly used polymers in modifying the drug release and the ionotropic gelation method and a slight modification in various ways are used to prepare these beads of different characteristics.
Abstract: Alginate and chitosan are commonly used polymers in modifying the drug release. These two polymers can be used together or separately to form drug loaded modified release beads. The ionotropic gelation method and a slight modification in various ways are used to prepare these beads of different characteristics. The bead characteristics like morphology, buoyancy, swelling nature, drug entrapment efficiency, adsorption, and release behavior are of importance. Also the therapeutic uses of the different modifications of the beads can be immense for the drugs which have low water solubility, short biological half life, require organ specific targeting, and are proteineous in nature.

24 citations


Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: Simple, accurate precise and validated two derivative spectrophotometric methods have been developed for the determination of moxifloxacin and cefixime and can be extended for routine analysis of the drugs in formulations.
Abstract: Background: The new combination of moxifloxacin HCl and cefixime trihydrate is approved for the treatment of lower respiratory tract infections in adults. At initial formulation development and screening stage a fast and reliable method for the dissolution and release testing of moxifloxacin and cefixime were highly desirable. The zero order overlaid UV spectra of moxifloxacin and cefixime showed >90% overlapping. Hence, simple, accurate precise and validated two derivative spectrophotometric methods have been developed for the determination of moxifloxacin and cefixime. Methods: In the first derivative spectrophotometric method varying concentration of moxifloxacin and cefixime were prepared and scanned in the range of 200 to 400 nm and first derivative spectra were calculated (n = 1). The zero crossing wavelengths 287 nm and 317.9 nm were selected for determination of moxifloxacin and cefixime, respectively. In the second method the first derivative of ratio spectra was calculated and used for the determination of moxifloxacin and cefixime by measuring the peak intensity at 359.3 nm and 269.6 nm respectively. Results: Calibration graphs were established in the range of 1–16 μg /mL and 1–15 μg /mL for both the drugs by first and ratio first derivative spectroscopic methods respectively with good correlation coefficients. Average accuracy of assay of moxifloxacin and cefixime were found to be 100.68% and 98 93%, respectively. Relative standard deviations of both inter and intraday assays were less than 1.8%. Moreover, recovery of moxifloxacin and cefixime was more than 98.7% and 99.1%, respectively. Conclusions: The described derivative spectrophotometric methods are simple, rapid, accurate, precise and excellent alternative to sophisticated chromatographic techniques. Hence, the proposed methods can be used for the quality control of the cited drugs and can be extended for routine analysis of the drugs in formulations.

19 citations


Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: It is concluded that the gum of the plant is macrofilaricidal in both in vitro and in vivo and may provide valuable leads for design and development of new antifilarial agents.
Abstract: Aim: Currently available antifilarial drugs diethylcarbamazine, ivermectin and albendazole and their combinations, are not able to control lymphatic filariasis Therefore, a better antifilarial agent is urgently required for proper management of the disease Materials and Methods: In this study, we evaluated the antifilarial activity of gum extract of plant Moringa oleifera Lam against the human lymphatic filarial parasite Brugia malayi using adult worms and microfilariae (mf) in two in vitro assays (motility and inhition in MTT reduction) for viability and two animal models, primary (Meriones unguiculatus implanted with B malayi adult worms in the peritoneal cavity) and secondary (subcutaneous B malayi infective larvae induced Mastomys coucha, the model closer to the natural human filarial infection) screens Results: The gum extract inhibited 100% motility (irreversible loss of motility) of mf and inhibited more than 56% MTT reduction potential of the adult female worms The extract was safe in cytotoxicity test using Vero cell line, therefore followed in vivo in primary and secondary screens In primary screen, the extract (5×500 mg/kg) caused 69% macrofilaricidal and 83% sterilization of female worms and 44% macrofilaricidal activity in secondary screen (5 × 1000 mg/kg) by oral route Conclusion: Thus, it is concluded that the gum of the plant is macrofilaricidal in both in vitro and in vivo and may provide valuable leads for design and development of new antifilarial agents This is the first ever report on the antifilarial efficacy of M oleifera

18 citations


Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: Two sensitive, simple and precise methods for quantification of Ritonavir in bulk and tablet dosage forms are developed and found to be simple, rapid, precise and cost-effective.
Abstract: Background: Ritonavir is a protease inhibitor and mostly used as a booster for increasing the bioavailability of other protease inhibitors like Atazanavir Sulfate and Lopinavir. Aims: Quality assessment of the new dosage form of Ritonavir i.e. tablets is very essential, so two sensitive, simple and precise methods are developed for quantification of Ritonavir in bulk and tablet dosage forms. Materials and Methods: The first method is based on first order derivative method and the second is based on area under curve method. Both the methods are validated according to international conference of harmonization (ICH) guidelines. A stability study of Ritonavir is done in UV - Visible Spectrophotometer under different stress conditions recommended by ICH guidelines. Results: The absorption maximum is found to be 239nm in methanol. The absorption maximum in first method is chosen at 253.2nm, and the linearity is found between 4 - 20 ΅g/ml with coefficient of correlation value 0.9981. In the second method, the range for area under curve selected is 237 - 242nm. The linearity is found between 4 -20 ΅g/ml with coefficient of correlation value 0.9992. Conclusion: The developed methods are validated and found to be simple, rapid, precise and cost-effective. The degradation study in tablet dosage form can be used as a stability indicating assay method.

18 citations


Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: The present study shows that the ornamental fish (Goldfish - Carassius auratus) are mainly affected with ecto-parasites like Ichthyophthirius sp.
Abstract: The lucrative business of ornamental fish culture in West Bengal (Mainly in three districts-Howrah, North and South 24 Parganas) are facing loses due to the invasion of different ecto- and endo-parasites. The present study shows that the ornamental fish (Goldfish - Carassius auratus) are mainly affected with ecto-parasites like Ichthyophthirius sp., Dactylogyrus sp., Gyrodactylus sp., Argulus sp. and endo-parasites like Procamallanus sp. and Cucullanus sp. The intensity of infection is high in case of Ichthyophthirius sp. and the intensity of the infection is high in summer months when the temperature is high or moderately high. In cooler months the intensity of the infection is lower as because the parasites are unable to breed or scarcity of food particles.

17 citations


Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: It can be thus concluded that A. galanga has anti-inflammatory properties and probably acts by blocking histaminic and serotonin pathways and may be an effective alternative to NASAIDs and corticosteroid in inflammatory disorders.
Abstract: Objective: The objective of the study is to evaluate the acute and chronic anti-inflammatory activities of root extract of Alpinia galanga in rodents. Materials and Methods: The study was carried out using albino rats of either sex (150-200 g). An extract of the root of A. galanga was prepared using absolute alcohol and distillation in a Soxhlet apparatus. The acute anti-inflammatory effects of this extract were evaluated using carrageenan-, bradykinin-, and 5-HT-induced rat paw edema. The chronic anti-inflammatory effects were evaluated using formaldehyde-induced rat paw edema. Results and Analysis: Inhibition of inflammation was seen to be 32.22% in carrageenan-induced, 37.70% in 5-HT-induced, and 35.21% in bradykinin-induced anti-inflammatory models. In chronic inflammatory model, a progressive inhibition of 34.73% (3 rd day), 37.50% (5 th day), 38.83% (7 th day), 44.66% (9 th day), 49.59% (11 th day), and 55.75% (13 th day) was observed with study compound. The efficacy was comparable with the standard drugs. Conclusion: It can be thus concluded that A. galanga has anti-inflammatory properties and probably acts by blocking histaminic and serotonin pathways. It may be an effective alternative to NASAIDs and corticosteroid in inflammatory disorders.

17 citations


Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: Different methods of drug loading used throughout a polymer hydrogel are focused on, which allow for continuous drug release for extended period by using loaded soft contact lenses.
Abstract: Current ophthalmic drug delivery systems are insufficient, specifically eye drops, which allow approximately 95% of the drug contained in the drops to be lost due to absorption through the conjunctiva or through the tear drainage. The use of soft contact lenses has been proposed as a method to deliver drugs to the eye in an efficient manner. The contact lenses restrict the drug from being lost to tear drainage by releasing the drug into two tear layers on either side of the contact lens, where it ultimately diffuses into the eye. By using loaded soft contact lenses, continuous drug release for extended period is possible. This paper focuses on the different methods of drug loading used throughout a polymer hydrogel.

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: Changes of temperature can be tolerated by the fishes and it brings about adaptive physiological changes to compensate the effects of temperature, to understand the adaptive mechanisms used by fishes with changes of environmental temperatures.
Abstract: Background: Histopathological changes induced by a rise in the acclimation temperature in advanced Labeo rohita (Hamilton) fingerlings were studied to understand their adaptive ability to thermal changes. The histopathological changes in relation to the thermal changes have been widely used as bioparameters in the evaluation of fish health. Materials and Methods: The six experimental temperatures that the fishes were exposed to were 32, 34, 36, 38, and 40oC for a period of 30 days each. The fishes kept at an ambient temperature of 29.3΁1.5oC were used as control. The major organs studied were gills, liver, kidney, and heart. No specific alterations were observed at control, 32, and 34oC. The organs were sampled at the end of 30 days exposure and histopathological changes of different organs were examined. Result and discussion: Different organs (gill, liver. Kidney and heart) show different histopathological changes in higher temperatures. However, adaptive and degenerative changes were found to occur at the higher temperatures of 36, 38, and 40oC. Conclusions: Changes of temperature can be tolerated by the fishes and it brings about adaptive physiological changes to compensate the effects of temperature. Significance: The study was helpful; to understand the adaptive mechanisms used by fishes with changes of environmental temperatures.

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: In this article, the authors used a reverse phase phenomenox C18 (250 mm΄4.6 mm i.d., particle size 5 ΅m) column to establish inherent stability of citicoline sodium.
Abstract: Aim: High performance liquid chromatography presents a useful aspect for the development of stability indicating assays. Objective of the current study was to establish inherent stability of citicoline sodium through stress studies under a variety of international conference on harmonization recommended test conditions and to develop a stability-indicating assay. Materials and Methods: Thermal stability studies were performed in a hot air oven (Hicon) and photo stability studies were carried out under the sunlight. The chromatographic separations were carried out on a reverse phase phenomenox C18 (250 mm΄4.6 mm i.d., particle size 5 ΅m) column. The chromatographic method was fine tuned using the sample generated from forced degradation studies. Mobile phase consists of mixture of buffer (potassium dihydrogen orthophosphate, tetra butyl ammonium, triethyl amine; pH 5.5; 0.002M) and methanol (95:5, v/v). Results: Good resolution between the peaks corresponds to degradation products and the analyte was achieved on 5 ΅, 250 mm΄4.6 mm i.d., C18 column (Luna, phenomenox, USA). The method was validated for accuracy, precision, linearity, range, and selectivity. Conclusion: The study shows that citicoline sodium is a labile molecule in acid, oxidative, and alkali conditions. It is stable to light and dry heat. A stability-indicating method was developed and is recommended for analysis of the drug and degradation products in stability samples.

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: Sensitivity of Enterobacteriaceae group of microorganisms to known antibiotics is decreasing and decreased sensitivity to carbapenem group of antibiotics is a matter of concern.
Abstract: Aims and Objectives: It has been observed that various microorganisms are acquiring resistance to most of the available potent antibiotics; hence, there is a need for every hospital to follow the use of antibiotics according to antibiotic sensitivity pattern in that particular hospital or geographical area. It has been reported that Enterobacteriaceae group of microorganisms are increasingly acquiring resistance to many antibiotics and this resistance varies geographically. As there is a short of recent data with respect to Indian hospital, this particular study was designed with the aim of establishing sensitivity pattern of Enterobacteriaceae group of microorganisms to various antibiotics. Materials and Methods: Data of antibiotic sensitivity from December 2010 to April 2011 of different Enterobacteriaceae was taken from the Department of Microbiology, Govt. Medical College, Surat. Sensitivity of different Enterobacteriaceae was shown as using descriptive statistics. Results: E. coli (55.6%) and Klebsiella (31.2%) were the most frequent bacteria isolated. Enterobacteriaceae were very less sensitive to amoxicillin + clavulanic acid (13.7%), chloramphenicol (7.6%), cefoperazone (14.4%), cefixime (15.7%), and cefuroxime (17.6). Sensitivity to aztreonam was 32.7%. Sensitivity to carbapenem group of drugs included in this study, i.e., meropenem was 69.8%. Highest sensitivity was shown for ceftazidime (74.1%). E. coli is more sensitive to meropenem as compared with Klebsiella . Conclusion: Sensitivity of Enterobacteriaceae group of microorganisms to known antibiotics is decreasing. Decreased sensitivity to carbapenem group of antibiotics is a matter of concern.

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: This review will discuss the important chemistry and general properties of pectin, its gel formation mechanism properties and its uses in novel drug delivery to the colon.
Abstract: Colon-specific drug delivery have a great importance in the delivery of drugs for the treatment of local colonic, as well as systemic diseases like Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, colorectal cancer, amoebiasis, asthma, arthritis and inflammation which can be achieved by targeted delivery of drug to colon. Specific systemic absorption in the colon gave interesting possibilities for the delivery of protein and peptides. It contains relatively less proteolytic enzyme activities in the colon compared to the upper gastrointestinal tract (GIT). Recommended treatments included the administration of anti-inflammatory drugs, chemotherapeutic agents and antibiotics which must be released in the colon. Pectin is a naturally occurring polysaccharide has in recent years gained increasingly in importance in advance drug delivery. It was employed in pharmaceutical industry, health promotion and treatment. Owing to its gelling properties it has been used potentially as a carrier for drug delivery to the GIT, such as matrix tablets, gel beads, film-coated dose form. This review will discuss the important chemistry and general properties of pectin, its gel formation mechanism properties and its uses in novel drug delivery to the colon.

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: In this paper, the simultaneous estimation of Ofloxacin (OFL) and Tinidazole (TNZ) in in bulk and pharmaceutical dosage form, without prior separation, by three different techniques (Simultaneous equation, Absorbance ratio method and First order derivative method).
Abstract: Aim: This work deals with the simultaneous estimation of Ofloxacin (OFL) and Tinidazole (TNZ) in in bulk and pharmaceutical dosage form, without prior separation, by three different techniques (Simultaneous equation, Absorbance ratio method and First order derivative method). Materials and Methods: The present work was carried out on Shimadzu electron UV1800 double beam UV-Visible spectrophotometer. The absorption spectra of reference and test solutions were carried out in 1 cm matched quartz cell over the range of 200 - 400 nm. Standard gift sample of OFL and TNZ obtain from Torrent pharmaceuticals Ltd., Baddi, Himachal Pradesh. Combined OFL and TNZ tablets were purchased from local market. Methanol from Merck Ltd and distilled water are used as solvent. Results: The first method is the application of simultaneous equation. Where the linearity ranges for OFL and TNZ were 5-30 μg/ml and 10-50 μg/ml respectively. The second method is the determination of ratio of absorbance at 278nm, the maximum absorption of TNZ and isobestic wavelength 283 nm, the linearity ranges for OFL and TNZ were 5-30 μg/ml and 10-50μg/ml respectively. The third method is the first order derivative method, where the linearity ranges for OFL and TNZ were 5-30 μg/ml and 10-50 μg/ml respectively. The results of the analysis have been validated statistically and by recovery studies, where the percentage recovery was found to be 100.9±0.49 and 97.30±0.20 using the simultaneous equation method, 98±0.45 and 100.4±0.48 using the graphical absorbance ratio method and 99.10±0.40 and 84.70±0.70 using first derivative method, for OFL and TNZ respectively. Conclusions: The proposed procedures are rapid, simple, require no preliminary separation steps and can be used for routine analysis of both drugs in quality control laboratories.

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: In this paper, the simultaneous determination of Losartan potassium (LSP) and Hydrochlorothiazide (HZ) in a binary mixture form, without prior separation, by three different techniques was carried out on Shimadzu electron UV1800 double beam UV-Visible spectrophotometer.
Abstract: Aim: This work deals with the simultaneous determination of Losartan potassium (LSP) and Hydrochlorothiazide (HZ) in a binary mixture form, without prior separation, by three different techniques. Materials and Methods: The present work was carried out on Shimadzu electron UV1800 double beam UV-Visible spectrophotometer. The absorption spectra of reference and test solutions were carried out in 1 cm matched quartz cell over the range of 200-400 nm. Standard gift sample of LSP and HZ were obtained from Torrent pharmaceuticals Ltd, Baddi, Himachal Pradesh. Combined LSP and HZ tablets were purchased from local market. Methanol from Merck Ltd. and distilled water are used as solvent. Results: The first method is the application of simultaneous equation. Where the linearity ranges for LSP and HZ were 5-25 μg/ml and 1-20 μg/ml, respectively. The second method is the determination of ratio of absorbance at 272 nm, the maximum absorption of HZ and isosbestic wavelength 266.5nm, the linearity ranges for LSP and HZ were 5-80μg/ml and 1-25μg/ml respectively. The third method is the first order derivative method, where the linearity ranges for LSP and HZ were 1-30 μg/ml and 1-40 μg/ml respectively. The proposed procedures were successfully applied for the simultaneous determination of both the drugs in commercial tablet preparation. The validity of the proposed methods was assessed by applying the standard addition technique where the percentage recovery of the added standard was found to be 99.06±1.210 and 99.30±1.159 using the simultaneous equation method, 99.66±0.573 and 99.95±0.272 using the graphical absorbance ratio method and 99.64±0.301 and 99.91±0.614 using first derivative method, for LSP and HZ respectively. Conclusions: The proposed procedures are rapid, simple, require no preliminary separation steps and can be used for routine analysis of both drugs in quality control laboratories.

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: Disk method was technically simple, easy to interpret and gave consistent results on repeated testing and can be reliably used for AmpC detection in routine clinical microbiological laboratories.
Abstract: Aims and Objectives: An AmpC enzyme differs from the Extended-spectrum β-lactamases (ESBL) in their preferential hydrolysis of cephamycins along with other classes of cephalosporins (except fourth generation) and being resistant to inhibition by clavulanic acid. Various phenotypic methods of AmpC detection has been described but they are technically intricate and difficult to interpret. Present study was aimed to evaluate two simple modifications of modified three dimensional enzyme extract test - disk method and well method to detect AmpC enzymes among clinical isolates of Enterobacteriaceae. Materials and Methods: A total 160 consecutive clinical isolates of Enterobacteriaceae from various clinical samples were tested for extended spectrum β-lactamase production using CLSI described phenotypic confirmatory test. AmpC production was determined by using boronic acid disk potentiation test. All the strains were tested with modified three dimensional test and two simple modification of three dimensional extract test - disk method and well method. Results & discussion: Among 160 clinical isolates of Enterobacteriaceae 80 were AmpC producers. Modified three dimensional test detected only 70% of AmpC producers. Disk method and well method using enzyme extract showed 100% and 91% sensitivity respectively. Disk method was technically simple, easy to interpret and gave consistent results on repeated testing. Disk method using enzyme extract can be reliably used for AmpC detection in routine clinical microbiological laboratories.

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: The general aspects and health benefits of chewing gum, which helps in maintaining oral health, relieves stress, helps in weight loss, and improves alertness, are elaborated on.
Abstract: This article elaborates on the general aspects and health benefits of chewing gum. Chewing gums have been used since the time of prehistoric man as a source of entertainment and relaxation. It has also become a trendsetter with the teenagers. Currently, the health benefits of chewing gums are being studied and used in the treatment of various diseases. Certain medications have also been included in gums to act as an alternative drug delivery system. These gums have been found to be successful for the treatment of diseases, such as peptic ulcers, upper digestive tract cancer, oral candidiasis, and so on. It helps to relieve symptoms of xerostomia, Parkinsonism, tooth sensitivity after bleaching, and oral malodor. It helps in maintaining oral health, relieves stress, helps in weight loss, and improves alertness. Chewing gum may be distracting and irritating in numerous social environments, including schools, colleges, and the workplace. Research into the social effects of chewing gums is also necessary to further our knowledge into the psychosocial aspects of these gums.

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: A comparative antimicrobial study of different hypoglycemic drugs (Met formin, Phenformin, and Rosiglitazone) was carried out to ascertain the antimicrobial activity by using non-antibiotics as the test substances.
Abstract: In the present work, a comparative antimicrobial study of different hypoglycemic drugs (Metformin, Phenformin, and Rosiglitazone) was carried out. The main objective was to ascertain the antimicrobial activity by using non-antibiotics as the test substances. The antimicrobial activity was carried out against different bacteria and fungi namely Bacillus liceniformis , Escherichia coli , Proteus vulgaris , Pseudomonas aeruginosa , Shigella flexneri , Bacillus subtilis , Staphylococcus aureus subspp., and Staphylococcus epidermidis by using disc diffusion method and agar dilution method. Ciprofloxacin was taken as the standard antibiotic. The entire procedure was carried out in an aseptic area under the laminar flow by inoculating the bacterial strain to the agar media in which the drug solution was added. Different concentrations (300 and 400 μg/ml) of the standard antibiotic and selected drugs were subjected for minimum inhibitory concentration, and zone of inhibition tests and the antimicrobial activity of the selected drugs were determined.

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: A critical need expressed by present healthcare system of India is discussed, and how to provide a better health facility and diluting the medication errors caused by inappropriate management of the hospitals is discussed.
Abstract: This paper is intended to discuss a critical need expressed by present healthcare system of India, and how to provide a better health facility and diluting the medication errors caused by inappropriate management of the hospitals. Adverse events related to medication occur due to pathetic infrastructures, corporal punishment by the patient if unsatisfied, doctors on strike and working only for riches, trivial financial aid, and lack of basic amenities in the government-run hospitals of India. Government should reduce the barriers of awareness, accountability, ability, and action into accelerators of patient safety in the government organizations. Physicians, nurses, and pharmacists are truly the critical ingredient to rapid safety practice adoption. Various approaches like Technological Iatrogenesis, Computerized Provider Order Entry, and Electronic Health Record should be used. Although patient safety is recognized as a serious issue in health system, there is an urgent need for development and implementation of strategies for prevention and early detection of errors.


Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: Wetlands are the most important ecosystems for the organisms in Animal Kingdom (including human beings) and Plant Kingdom as discussed by the authors and they are also the habitats of several mammals like the marsh mongoose, small Indian mongooses, palm civet and the small Indian civert.
Abstract: Wetlands are the most important ecosystems for the organisms in Animal Kingdom (including human beings) and Plant Kingdom. There are about hundred species of flora in and around Indian Wetlands. They include Sagittaria montividensis, Cryptocoryne ciliata, Cyperus spp., Acrostichum aureum, Ipomoea aquatica, etc. They are also the habitats of several mammals like the marsh mongoose, small Indian mongoose, palm civet and the small Indian civet. Endangered species like the Indian mud turtle have also been found in the wetlands. Certain species of birds also visit the wetlands. Prominent ones are grebe, coot, darter, shag, cormorant, teals, egrets, jacanas, snipes, tern, eagle, sand piper, gulls, rails and kingfishers. The wetlands are important for production of foods and human safety. The East Kolkata wetlands with their garbage farms and fishponds have provided the city with three facilities, i.e., food, sanitation and livelihood. They also provide ecological security to the city of Kolkata. Over the past few years, wetlands have come under severe threat. With the population explosion, some of the largest fish farms have been converted from pisiculture to paddy cultivation. Industries also empty their wastewater effluent without treatment to the channels flowing eastward and these ultimately land up in the wetlands. This has caused substantial amount of deposits of metal in the canal sludge and made the wastewater incapable for the consumption by the fishes and the plants grown in the wetland. Nevertheless, due to urbanization or human interference, the wetland and its unique ecosystem biodiversity are in danger. After Ramsar Convention, 1971, different acts have been passed in India for conservation of wetlands, along with conducting general awareness program for the local people by the government, conducting different programs, management of wetlands, and research by the government, NGOs and other institutions.

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: Various drugs and their efficacy with least adverse drug effects while treating the various aphthous ulcers are discussed.
Abstract: Aphthous ulcer is the most common type of ulcer affecting the oral cavity and is considered to be one of the most painful conditions. Treatment is often unsatisfactory. Newer treatment modalities are therefore being tried. Amlexanox and rebamipide are the approved drugs for painful aphthous ulcers and have been used in painful symptoms of acid peptic disease as prostaglandin enhancers. Safety and efficacy of the drugs used in the treatment of recurrent aphthous ulcers were evaluated and being used widely by most of the treating physicians choosing a modality of treatment of their experience. There is no proper treatment modality available till date. Various drugs and their efficacy with least adverse drug effects while treating the various aphthous ulcers are discussed.

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: This study shows that hemoglobin might also play a significant role in pathogenesis of coronary artery disease and further detailed studies may provide clues to boost this emerging biomarker.
Abstract: Coronary artery disease is a common health problem worldwide, and some studies have pointed out the relationship between CAD and anemia. To diagnose anemia, the criteria is hemoglobin (Hb) P < 0.0001 (statistically significant). Almost all the cases were found to be anemic. Our study shows that hemoglobin might also play a significant role in pathogenesis of coronary artery disease. Further detailed studies may provide clues to boost this emerging biomarker.

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: In this article, a validated, sensitive, rapid, simple and economic isocratic HPLC method for estimating Sumatriptan succinate in tablet dosage form was developed, which was validated for accuracy, precision, reproducibility, specificity, and robustness, limit of detection (LOD), and limit of quantification (LOQ).
Abstract: Aim: The present study was undertaken to develop a validated, sensitive, rapid, simple and economic an isocratic HPLC method for estimating Sumatriptan succinate in tablet dosage form. Materials and Methods: Normal phase chromatographic analysis was performed on an Ascentis® Si HPLC Column (25cmΧ2.1mm, 5μm) with ammonium phosphate − acetonitrile (80:20, v/v, pH 3.5 adjusted with ortho-phosphoric acid) at a flow rate of 1 ml/min and detection wavelength of 230 nm. System suitability tests essential for the assurance of quality performance of the method were performed. The method was validated for accuracy, precision, reproducibility, specificity, and robustness, limit of detection (LOD), and limit of quantification (LOQ), as per International Conference on Harmonization (ICH) guidelines. Results: A single sharp peak was obtained for Sumatriptan succinate at retention time of 6.8±0.01 min. The polynomial regression data for the calibration plots exhibited good linear relationship (r=0.9999) over a concentration range of 50-1050 ng/ml and the linear regression equation was y=120.9x+33.56. Accuracy ranged from 99.96% to 101.49%. The LOD and LOQ values were 11 and 35 ng/ml, respectively. Conclusion: The proposed method gave good resolution of Sumatriptan succinate. System suitability tests and statistical analysis performed prove that the method is precise, accurate and reproducible, and hence can be employed for routine analysis of Sumatriptan succinate in bulk and commercial formulations.

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TL;DR: Dental professionals are at a risk of occupational acquisition of HIV primarily due to accidental exposure to infected blood and body fluids because of knowledge, attitude and practice regarding risk of HIV transmission through accidental needle stick injury.
Abstract: Background: Injuries from occupational accidents are associated with agents of biological risk, as they are the gateway to serious and potentially lethal infectious diseases that can be spread by contact between people. Several studies have demonstrated that dental students are among the most vulnerable to blood borne exposure. Materials and Methods: To assess the knowledge, attitude and practice regarding risk of HIV transmission through accidental needle stick injury amongst dental students and providing supportive and proper guidelines regarding needle stick injuries and HIV infection. Study Design: This was a cross sectional study done at a dental college attached to a tertiary care hospital which included third, fourth year students and interns. The results obtained were subjected to statistical analysis using Chi square test. Results: Of the 120 students 13(11%) were not even aware that virus could be transmitted through infected needle. A significant proportion of the third year students i.e. 27 (67.5%) were not aware of correct method of disposal of disposable needles and syringes as against interns 17(42.5%). Around 31(26%) said that they would promote active bleeding at the site of injury and 37(30%) said they would take post exposure prophylaxis. Conclusion: Dental professionals are at a risk of occupational acquisition of HIV primarily due to accidental exposure to infected blood and body fluids. There is a need of correcting the existing misconceptions through education programmes early in the course and providing supportive and proper guidelines regarding needle stick injuries and HIV infection.

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TL;DR: The section serves to enhance epidemiological surveillance for identification of poisoning/risk of poisoning in the community, the substances, circumstances, and the population involved in and to strengthen investigation of poisoning incidences of public health significance so as to implement control measures in a timely manner.
Abstract: Toxicovigilance is the active process of identifying and evaluating the toxic risks existing in a community and evaluating the measures taken to reduce or eliminate them. It should be viewed as a useful complement to prevent poisoning. The section serves to enhance epidemiological surveillance for identification of poisoning/risk of poisoning in the community, the substances, circumstances, and the population involved in and to strengthen investigation of poisoning incidences of public health significance so as to implement control measures in a timely manner. Data mining of large databases, such as those of poison centers, can be extremely helpful by triggering signals for health authorities. So far, very few countries have set up structured toxicovigilance systems and it is anticipated that in future, national and international initiatives will help bridging this gap in our knowledge of the toxicity of many chemicals and commercial products to human beings.

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TL;DR: The TLC method developed for simultaneous quantitative determination of 5,7-dichloroquinolin-8-ol and 5-chloroquinols 8-ol was found to be simple and economical and can be used in routine quality control analysis of halquinol in bulk drug powder and halquinols bolus.
Abstract: Aim: The study aims to develop a simple, rapid and economical normal phase thin layer chromatography (TLC) method for identification and quantification of 5,7-dichloroquinolin-8-ol and 5-chloroquinolin-8-ol, two active ingredients of halquinol, an antimicrobial agent. Materials and Methods: The analysis was performed on silica gel 60 TLC plates pre-washed with disodium ethylenedinitrilotetraacetic acid disodium salt (Na 2 EDTA) solution with methanol-ethyl acetate-iso-propyl alcohol-ammonia solution [8:20:1:0.6 (v/v)] as the mobile phase. Detection and quantification was performed densitometrically at 247 nm. Results: Responses of both 5,7-dichloroquinolin-8-ol and 5-chloroquinolin-8-ol were linear functions of concentration in the range of 300-800 ng. The intraday precision and intermediate precision of the method for 5,7-dichloroquinolin-8-ol and 5-chloroquinolin-8-ol was determined and it was found to be precise. Conclusion: The TLC method developed for simultaneous quantitative determination of 5,7-dichloroquinolin-8-ol and 5-chloroquinolin-8-ol was found to be simple and economical. Therefore, it can be used in routine quality control analysis of halquinol in bulk drug powder and halquinol bolus.