Showing papers in "Journal of pharmacy and nutrition sciences in 2015"

Beetroot Juice Supplementation Increases High Density Lipoprotein-Cholesterol and Reduces Oxidative Stress in Physically Active Individuals

Abstract: Beetroot juice contains a high level of biologically accessible antioxidants, beneficial phytochemicals and dietary nitrate, which seem to exert beneficial effects in human health. Dietary nitrate, from beetroot has been reported to lower blood pressure. However the impact of beetroot on lipid profile and oxidative stress is unknown. In present study, the effect of supplementation with beetroot juice for 15 days was investigated. Plasma lipid profile, antioxidant status, oxidative stress and body composition changes were evaluated at baseline and after 15 days of beetroot juice supplementation. Beetroot juice supplementation beneficially influenced the lipid profile by significantly increasing the levels of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) from 42.9 ± 8.3 mg/dl to 50.2 ± 9.8 mg/dl and decreasing low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) from 129.7 ± 82.3 mg/dl to 119.5 ± 79.2 mg/dl compared with baseline values. Beetroot juice supplementation increased (P < 0.05) plasma nitrite level and guanosine 3’, 5’-cyclic monophosphate (c-GMP) levels. A significant increase in plasma total antioxidant capacity and vitamin C levels was observed after beetroot juice intake for 15 days. There was no significant change in the body fat mass and lean body mass of participants with the beetroot juice supplementation. Beetroot juice supplementation significantly decreased the stress markers plasma hydroperoxides and cortisol levels. Beetroot juice acts as a potent vasodilator by increasing plasma c-GMP levels and nitrite levels. Beetroot juice consumption improves plasma lipid profile and antioxidant status, encouraging further evaluation on a population with higher cardiovascular disease risk.

Effects of Different Physical and Chemical Parameters on Phosphate Solubilization Activity of Plant Growth Promoting Bacteria Isolated from Indigenous Soil

Abstract: The microorganisms play a vital role in fertility of soil and hence favors’ large group of plants. In present study we have successfully isolated certain bacteria from soil including both Gram positive and Gram negative bacteria and access their ability in phosphate solubilization. Effects of temperature, pH and different carbon sources, on phosphate solubilization, by these isolates were also determined. Low temperature 25 °C, pH between 5-7, and glucose as carbon source were found to be best for phosphate solubilization by most of the isolates. Present study highlights the importance of these plants growth promoting bacteria and their uses for agriculture purposes.

Formulation and Evaluation of Antimicrobial Activities of Herbal Cream Containing Ethanolic Extracts of Azadirachta indica Leaves and Aloe Vera Gel

Abstract: The antimicrobial activity of ethanolic extract of dried leaves of Azadirachta indica (Neem), fresh gel of Aloe vera , combination of the two extracts and the creams formulated with these extracts were evaluated. The preliminary in vitro antimicrobial activity of the extracts at various concentrations and those of their creams were determined against some microorganisms using the agar cup plate method. The growth inhibition zones of the extracts on the microorganisms were noted. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) was also determined by agar dilution method. The physical properties of the creams formulated with these extracts were evaluated using standard procedures. Gram positive bacteria were more susceptible to Neem extract of which Staphylococcus aureus was the most susceptible with the lowest MIC value (2.5mg/ml). The fungal strain Candida albicans had the lowest MIC value (2.0mg/ml) for the Aloe vera gel extract. The MIC values (mg/ml) of Neem leaves against Bacillus subtilis , Escherichia coli , Staphylococcus aureus , Pseudomonas aeroginosa , Candida albicans and Aspergillus niger were 5.00, 5.00, 2.50, 10.00, 2.50, 5.00 respectively, while MIC of Aloe extract were 8.00, 8.00, 4.00, 8.00, 2.00, 4.00 respectively. Among the formulated creams, the formulation containing equal concentrations of the extracts (1:1) showed the highest antimicrobial activity, however the commercial brand Funbact A ® had better antimicrobial activity. Most of the creams showed comparable physical properties. The study showed that the creams containing equal concentrations of the two ethanolic extracts have high potentials as topical antimicrobial agents especially against skin infections due to the tested Gram positive bacteria and Candida albicans .

Cost Savings of Reduced Constipation Rates Attributed to Increased Dietary Fibre Intakes in Europe: A Decision-Analytic Model

Abstract: Mounting evidence shows that functional constipation contributes to increased healthcare utilization, impairment in quality of life, and lost work productivity. Among those with functional constipation, relatively small dietary changes may alleviate symptoms and result in considerable constipation-related healthcare cost savings. The study objective was to estimate the economic impact of increased dietary fibre consumption on direct medical costs associated with constipation from a payer perspective. A decision-analytic spreadsheet model was created to perform the analysis. Literature searches identified sources for input parameters, including prevalence of functional constipation, dietary fibre intakes, proportion of the population meeting recommended intakes, and the percentage that would be expected to benefit from increased dietary fibre consumption. The model assumes that 25% of adults make no change in fibre intake, 25% increase intake by 3 g/day, 15% increase intake by 4 g/day, 25% increase intake by 5 g/day, and 10% increase intake by 11 g/day. A dose-response analysis of published data was conducted to estimate the percent reduction in constipation prevalence per 1 g/day increase in dietary fibre intake. Annual direct medical costs for constipation were derived from the literature and updated to 2014. Sensitivity analyses explored robustness of the model. Under base case assumptions, annual cost savings were estimated at ₤127,037,383 in the United Kingdom, €8,791,992 / ₤7,244,513 in Ireland, and €121,699,804 in Spain. Increasing dietary fibre consumption is associated with considerable cost savings, with these estimates being conservative given the exclusion of lost productivity costs in the model.

Effect of Spirulina platensis Supplementation on Nutritional and Biochemical Parameters of Under Five Years Malnourished Children from an Orphanage in Douala, Cameroon

Abstract: Malnutrition is the underlying cause of 50% of morbidity and mortality in the under-five age group. Its frequencies have been increasing in young Cameroon children during the past three decades (stunting ≥ 38%; anemia ≥ 58%; Zinc ≥ 69% and vitamin A ≥ 38%) We carried out a prospective study to assess the supplementation effect of Spirulina platensis on moderate and mild malnutrition on children under five years old. Seven children (4-5 years) were enrolled in this study. Children were enrolled in nutritional rehabilitation for 25 days. Each child received 8g of supplement daily, 4g in the morning and 4g in the evening. Anthropometric and haematologic parameters were measured before and after rehabilitation. Mild and moderate malnutrition, wasting and underweight was seen in 4 children anthropometrically (no child was stunted) and haematologically in all 7 children before rehabilitation started. The children were weighted four times (First week at enrollment (W1), week 2 (W2), Week 3 (W3), Week 4 (W4)). After 25 days, a significant gain in weight was observed and varying from 17.21 ± 2.00Kg (W 1 ) to 18.45 ± 2.07Kg (W 2 ) and from 18.143 ± 1.77Kg (W 3 ) to 18.67 ± 1.93Kg (W 4 ) with their respective P- values at 0.02 (W 2 ), 0.02 (W 3 ) and 0.04 (W 4 ) after rehabilitation. The following biomarkers and their constants also showed a significant variation: calcium (73.91 ± 16.89mg/L vs 88.41 ± 14.83mg/L (p = 0.03), mean cell volume (86.14 ± 4.38 fl vs 83.86 ± 4.83 fl (p = 0.04) and mean cell haemoglobin concentration (32.10 ± 0.38 g/dL vs 34.27 ± 3.35 g/dL (p = 0.03) respectively before and after rehabilitation. Other biomarkers (proteins, haemoglobin, haematocrit, platelets, red blood cells, white blood cells, neutrophiles, eosinophiles, basophiles, monocytes, lymphocytes) had also increased in non a significant manner. The study showed that spirulina platensis impact positively in the fight against malnutrition by improving weight and raising the blood content of biomarkers due to its high content of proteins (60-70%) and pigments.

Effect of Topical Application of Hydro-Ethanolic Extract of Acacia nilotica Pods on Second-Degree Cutaneous Infected Burns

Abstract: Acacia nilotica is a medicinal plant used traditionally in Togo to treat various diseases including burn wounds. The aim of this study was to evaluate experimentally Acacia nilotica burn wound healing effect. Cutaneous burn wounds were symmetrically caused on depilated areas of rat skin through contact with an aluminum bar (r = 10 mm), preheated at 80°C for 30 sec. Five groups of animal were constituted and each group contained 8 mice. Four groups of animal’s burn wounds were infected by Staphylococcus aureus . One group burn wound is uninfected and serves as negative control. Burn wounds were assessed by planimetry and histological parameters of healing. Twelve days after burn wound induction, wound contraction in the uninfected groups (negative control) was 19.9% for topical application against -2.43% for infected control. In the infected groups treated with extract, wound contraction was generally stimulates. Histological examination showed granulated tissue developing over the wounds treated with the extract of A. nilotica at 2.5% and 5% where the proliferation of fibroblasts and neo-blood vessels was very marked. In conclusion, A. nilotica pod contents tannin, flavonoids, alkaloids and protein reduces DPPH solution and significantly accelerates wound healing of burns, and this is the case even if wounds are infected with 10 9 CFU/mL of S. aureus .

Effect of Taro (Colocasia esculenta) Starch-Hydrocolloids Mixture on the Physical and Sensory Characteristics of Leavened Bread

Abstract: During this study, different blends of taro starch-hydrocolloid were incorporated in yeast leavened bread and their effects were investigated. The specific volume, moisture content and slice shape of the bread were found to be improved by the addition of taro starch-guar gum blend. Taro starch-xanthan gum mixture was also found to be a good additive to improve specific volume, slice shape, crumb softness as well as sensory characteristics of bread. The study reveals taro starch-hydrocolloid blend can be utilized as a novel ingredient to improve the physical and sensory characteristics of leavened bread.

In Silico Design & Development of Some Selected Flavonols Against Beta–Glucuronidase Inhibitory Activity

Abstract: Drug discovery process develops faster due to more advances in computational techniques The protein ligand interaction well predicted due to the in-silico approach study The present investigation focused towards the development of lead structure for treatment of hepatic disorders An increase in serum acid hydrolase, including I²-glucuronidase has been reported in numbers of pathological conditions such as arthritis, renal diseases and epilepsies Enhancement of this enzyme I²â€“glucuronidase in blood has been found to correlate significantly with liver damage I²-glucuronidase inhibitor is a novel approach which is different from the available hepatoprotective drug therapies Method : The current study is based on in-silico ligand screening and in-vitro estimation of the three flavonols [Naringenin, Quercetin and 2-(3, 4-Dihydroxy Phenyl)-7-Hydroxy-3-(2-Hydroxy Ethoxy) 4-H-Chromen-4one] compounds with enzyme I²-glucuronidase Molecular docking software Py Rex and Py Mol was used to dock the selected ligand in the binding site of the crystal structure of protein Results : Docking results are based on the least binding energy of the selected flavonols compounds Further attempt has been made towards in-vitro estimation of this enzyme with those selected compounds The binding affinity with existence of hydrogen bonds leads to find out the mechanism which was well correlated with the findings of in-vitro inhibitory activity Conclusion : The result outcome of the binding orientation of 2-(3, 4-Dihydroxy Phenyl)-7-Hydroxy-3-(2-Hydroxy Ethoxy) 4-H-Chromen-4one linked with the active amino acid residue of the protein and the binding affinity leads to find out the mechanism for its potential in-vitro inhibitory activity

Influence of Biologically Active Substance “STEMB” on a Morphofunctional Condition of a Liver and Kidneys of Rats at an Experimental Hepatorenal Syndrome

Abstract: In this investigation, we revealed that application of the biostimulating tissue preparation based on chicken embryos (“STEMB”) at experimental hepatorenal syndrome showed improvement of the morphofunctional parameters of a liver. Under the influence of a biostimulator the relative mass of a liver considerably decreased and biochemical markers of a condition of a liver (total bilirubin, ALT, AST) returned to normal. Besides, under the influence of “STEMB” the tendency to normalization of mitotic, apoptotic and binuclear cells index of liver tissues and considerable decrease in a necrotic index is observed. Results of the research conducted by us allow to make a conclusion on possibility of inclusion of “STEMB” in a complex therapy of HRS for treatment of the injuries of a liver which are its main reason.

Toxicity of Sanguinaria canadensis L. as Compared to Aloe vera L. against Brine Shrimp (Artemia salina) Using the Probit Methodology

Abstract: Toxicity study of Sanguinaria canadensis L. was determined as compared to Aloe vera (L.) Burm. f. against brine shrimp ( Artemia salina ). Upon statistical analysis of obtained toxicity bioassay data through the method of probits, LC 50 of Sanguinaria canadensis was estimated as 0.021 mg/ml, with (95% C.I : 0.0091-0.0485) whereas Aloe vera was found to be almost non-toxic showing relatively higher LC 50 that is, 180783.7 mg/ml. These results show that Aloe vera that is being used widely as an herbal medicine throughout the world, could be used safely for other various expected purposes for instance IPM etc. where the excessive amount is anticipated to drain into the sea ecosystem ultimately.

Inhibitory Effects of Chaga (Inonotus Obliquus) on Tumor Promotion in Two-Stage Mouse Skin Carcinogenesis

Abstract: The methanol extract of chaga (sclerotia of Inonotus obliquus ) inhibited the promoting effect of 12- O -tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acatate (TPA) applied twice weekly on skin tumor formation in mice initiated with 7,12-dimethylbenz [ a ] anthracene. The methanol extract from chaga led to the isolation of eight triterpenoids ( 1 - 8 ). The anti-inflammatory activity of the isolated lanostane-type triterpenes was evaluated against TPA-induced inflammatory ear edema in mice. These compounds showed markedly anti-inflammatory effects, with a 50% inhibitory dose of 125-458 nmol/ear.

The Hunger Games: A Systematic Review of Pediatric Bariatric Surgery

Abstract: Introduction : As childhood obesity in the US reaches alarming levels, bariatric surgery is becoming a more commonly implemented treatment option due to its high success rate compared with behavioral modification and medical therapy alone. The mechanisms by which it affects body weight and metabolic homeostasis are not well understood. The goal of the present study was to perform a systematic review of pediatric bariatric surgery to evaluate its effectiveness in the context of the physiologic changes that are produced. Materials and Methods : The PubMed database, MEDLINE, Springer Link, Cochrane, and article bibliographies were used to identify original English-language articles published between 2009 and 2014 evaluating pediatric patients. Included studies evaluated patients undergoing Roux en Y gastric bypass, laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy or laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding and analyzed weight loss, BMI reduction, postoperative complications and co-morbidity resolution post-procedure; all articles had at least a one year follow up. Results : Five studies were included in our evaluation of the three most common bariatric procedures currently performed on the pediatric population for a total of 1,395 patients. The average patient age was 18.2 and 72% of patients were females. Most patients underwent roux en Y gastric bypass (RYGB) (n=659), followed by laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB) (n=554) and finally laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) (n=149). The greatest decrease in BMI was seen in the RYGB group who lost an average BMI of 16.7kg/m 2 , followed by the LSG group with a loss of 14.0kg/m 2 . The LAGB patients lost 8.2kg/m 2 . Postoperative complications varied in severity, however the only death occurred in a patient following RYGB. Conclusion : Bariatric surgery has proven to reduce BMI and weight in the adolescent population resulting in an enhanced quality of life and resolution of significant co-morbidities. The mechanism of weight loss is different among the three most common procedures, as is their affect on gut hormone profiles. Ghrelin may have an effect on weight loss, however it is not solely responsible for the procedures’ weight loss effect as levels vary postoperatively. RYGB has been shown to produce the greatest weight loss but postoperative ghrelin levels are not consistently decreased compared to LSG, which demonstrates low ghrelin levels routinely. Additional studies are needed to measure weight loss as it relates to postoperative gut hormone levels, as determining the physiologic changes after these procedures will guide future therapies.

In Vitro Activity of Cocoa Powder Extracts on Some Biomarkers Implicated in P. falciparum Malaria Pathogenesis

Abstract: Malaria is a public health concern in many developing countries, including Ghana, and efforts are being made to eradicate it. Extracts from natural products have been used in several malaria endemic areas for malaria prophylaxis and treatment. Natural cocoa powder has been reported to possess in vitro direct inhibitory on P. falciparum . This study investigated the effect of natural cocoa powder on inducible nitric oxide, TNF-I± and IL-10, biomarkers that play different roles in malaria pathogenesis. Chloroform and ethylacetate fractions of cocoa powder were cultured together with phytohemagglutinin-stimulated peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) for 24 hours at 37°C with 5% CO 2 . Cell free supernatants were harvested and assayed for iNO, TNF-I± and IL-10. Inducible NO was determined by diazotization reaction developed by Griess. TNF-I± and IL-10 were determined by ELISA. This study showed that TNF-I± and iNO in phytohemagglutinin-stimulated PBMCs were significantly reduced by cocoa fractions (p 0.05), although TNF-I± is known to up-regulate IL-10. Apart from the documented direct inhibitory effect of cocoa powder on P. falciparum , it can be hypothesized that the antiplasmodial activity of unsweetened cocoa powder could also be due to its ability to significantly inhibit iNO and TNF-I±, inflammatory substances implicated in severe malaria pathogenesis.

Can Plants’ Ability for DNA Repair and Stress Defense be Used against Patients’ Circulating Tumor Cells?

Abstract: Introduction : It was suggested that specific plants may reduce cancer's resistance to chemotherapy. Resistance inhibits apoptosis, as well as other fundamental anti-cancer protective mechanisms. Soy bean has been found to reduce cellular stress and repair DNA damage caused by drought or parasites, and can transfer this defense mechanism to other plant species as well. The aim of this study is therefore to conduct a systematic comparison of the effect of soy bean formulation (FSWW08) on gene expression in in vitro human breast cancer cell line, and in in vivo in blood circulating tumor cells (CTC), after oral consumption of FSWW08 by patients suffering from breast-, ovarian-, and prostate cancer. Method : In vitro gene expressions studies were conducted with the human breast cancer cell line BT-474 that was exposed to doxorubicin or FSWW08, either alone or in combination. Ovarian-, prostate-, and breast cancer patients received FSWW08 for 30 days. CTC were extracted from their blood according to an established protocol. Gene expression evaluations were conducted before and after treatment. Results : In vitro, the multi-drug resistance (MDR) protein was reduced by FSWW08, but was increased by doxorubicin. The combination of FSWW08 and doxorubicin, however, showed a protective effect against the increase of MDR in physiologic concentrations, increased, however, also in high experimental concentrations of both agents. The expression of several cancer-related protective genes, such as tumor suppressor factors p21, p38 and p53, was improved by FSWW08 in vitro and in vivo , which helped cell differentiation and new tissue formation. Additionally, the BAX/Bcl 2 ratio was improved, in vitro , as well as gene expression of estrogen receptor beta, NF-IoB, MAP kinase, c-JUN, and matrix metalloproteinase 9, together with an increase of VEGF expression in vivo in CTC. Conclusion : It was demonstrated that FSWW08 improved the gene functions related to DNA repair and stress in human blood CTC and resistance marker, in vitro , when applied in combination with doxorubicin. As such, larger in vitro and in vivo clinical studies that investigate single botanical compounds from other plants, are warranted.

Linoleic Acid Blocks the Inhibitory Effects of Caffeine on Tumour Promotion by 12-O-Tetradecanoylphorbol-13-Acetate in Two-Stage Carcinogenesis in Mouse Skin

Abstract: The present study assessed the in vivo effects of fatty acids on inflammation and carcinogenesis in mice. Fifteen fatty acids were examined for their effects on the inhibitory effect of caffeine on 12- O -tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate (TPA)-induced ear oedema in mice. Furthermore, linoleic acid was studied for its effects on the inhibitory effect of caffeine on carcinogenesis in mouse skin initiated with 7,12-dimethylbenz[ a ]anthracene (DMBA) and promoted by TPA. Among fatty acids, linoleic, I³-linolenic and oleic acids most strongly blocked the inhibitory effect of caffeine on TPA-induced ear oedema. Furthermore, linoleic acid also markedly blocked the inhibitory effect of caffeine on the tumour-promoting activity of TPA. This is the first report to suggest that fatty acids, such as linoleic, I³-linolenic and oleic acids, block the anti-inflammatory activity of caffeine on TPA-induced inflammation in mice. Linoleic acid blocked the inhibitory effect of caffeine on tumour promotion by TPA in the two-stage mouse skin carcinogenesis model. These results suggest that intake of linoleic acid requires attention.

Impact Evaluation of Calcium and Vitamin D Supplementation and Physical Activity on Bone Health Status of Elderly Population of Urban Vadodara

Abstract: Background : Osteoporosis is a global public health problem affecting the ageing population and influenced by poor nutrition, lack of physical activities, and absence of supplementation on time Objectives : To study the impact of Calcium and vitamin D supplementation along with weight bearing exercises on bone health status of elderly Methods : 30 elderly males and 20 elderly females having poor BMD and poor serum vitamin D were supplemented with 1000 mg calcium and 500 IU vitamin D/ day along with weight bearing exercises for a period of 3 months, along with that 60000 IU vitamin D 3 /week for 2 months were given to 30 males only Serum calcium, Vitamin D, BMD, dietary calcium intake, frequency of vitamin D rich food intake, anthropometry etc were measured at the baseline as well as after the intervention Results : Mean BMD T-scores (-11 to -25: osteopenia; >-25: osteoporosis) of the elderly males and females were significantly (p≤0001) decreased after the intervention depicting improvement (baseline:-234±050, final:-186±061) 267% reduction in osteoporotic cases among males and 50 % among women was achieved Mean serum calcium (baseline: 938±063, final: 946±061) and vitamin D level (baseline: 2376±1317, final: 3548±1484) was increased significantly (p≤005) 60% males and 70% females achieved vitamin D sufficiency level after the intervention Mean physical endurance (Grip strength, standing balance, walking speed and rise from chair) scores were significantly increased in both males and females Locomotor problems were reduced among 67% males and 40% females after regular weight bearing exercise and supplementation Conclusion : Calcium and vitamin D supplementation with daily weight bearing exercise has a preventive and curative effect on BMD and it maintains the serum calcium and vitamin D levels Long term and high dose supplementation needs further investigation

Prevalence of Depression in Animal Model of High Fat Diet Induced Obesity

Abstract: The prevalence of obesity is substantially increased in developing countries and it is considerably associated with type 2 diabetes (T2DM), dyslipidemia, and hypertension. These symptoms are clustered to form metabolic syndrome. In accordance with the Researchers opinion, obese people are more likely to suffer from depression, a mental affliction that appears due to chronic stress, disturbs thoughts, behavior, and feelings. It has been addressed that the physiological impairments which are undergoing due to obesity can affect the metabolic activities which in turn give impact on brain and affect it’s functioning, because obesity itself seems to constitute a chronic stressful state thus, exacerbates the risk of depression. Present study intended to illuminate the anticipated links between obesity and stress. To make possible the study, animal model of obesity was accomplished by subjecting the Albino wistar rats with energy-dense diet (high fat diet) for 5 weeks; later on, chronic mild stress paradigm was implemented along with high fat feeding for 2 weeks. As expected, high fat feeding increased the adiposity in rodents. Obese animals presented the depressive symptoms more prominent than normal fat feeding rats. Present findings suggest that obesity could increase the depressive symptoms potentially involve in the recruitment of depression.

Analysis of Essential Elements in Commercially Important Lobster Species Collected From Coastal Areas of Karachi City, Pakistan

Abstract: The study was undertaken to assess the sea food product having attractive environmental effects as they are important source of nutrients in human diets. A part from delicacy crustacean is of high value and appreciated food items, representing an important economic source in the last decade. The chemical composition and nutritional value of crustacean heavily investigated worldwide and composition benefit to human health have been much promoted. The lack of macronutrients in human leads to improper enzyme mediated metabolic functions and results in organo-malfunctions, chronic diseases and ultimately death. The aim of this study is to quantify the essential elements like Copper, Zinc, Sodium, Potassium, Calcium and Magnesium in different body parts of male and female lobster species. For this purpose lobster species were collected in year 2011 to 2013 from the different fish harbor of Karachi city. Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy (AAS) technique was used to analyze the Cu, Zn, Ca and Mg while Flame photometer was used to quantify the Na and K. The results were compared on the basis of WHO/ FAO values. The concentrations of selected essential metals were within the normal range in all the analyzed samples. Pearson correlation were applied to find out the inter metal relationship in different parts of lobster at significant level p < 0.01 or p < 0.05 and were found maximum relationship between the metals Cu:Zn, Zn:Na, Zn:K, Na:K, Na:Ca, Na:Mg, K:Mg and Ca:Mg in whole three years studied indicate that the strong correlation between the macronutrients and increasingly adverse impact of industrialization and urbanization on the commercially important lobsters community day by day.

A Comparative Study on Serum Level Concentration of Micronutrients Like Zinc, Copper and Chromium Status in Type 2 Diabetic Patients in Diabetes & Endocrinology Unit, Tikur Anbessa Specialized Hospital, Ethiopia

Abstract: Background: Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a chronic metabolic disorder, characterized by an absolute or relative deficiency of insulin and insulin resistance. Many studies have reported an association between diabetes and alterations in the metabolism of several micronutrients. In Ethiopia the study in the relationship between micronutrients (Zn, Cu and Cr) status and type 2 diabetes (T2DM) is scanty. The aim of this study was to assess and compare the concentration of the fasting serum zinc, copper and chromium status in T2DM and control subjects. Method: A cross-sectional comparative study, conducted on 108 human subjects divided in to two groups: 54 subjects with the diagnosis of T2DM and the other 54 subjects were grouped as the control. After demographic and anthropometric information gathered, the blood sample was collected for the biochemical analysis. Fasting serum glucose was measured by glucose oxidase methods. The serum concentration of micronutrients namely zinc, copper and chromium were determined by using atomic absorption spectrophotometer. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 16 software. Results: Compared with control groups, T2DM patients had greater BMI (p<0.001); higher WHR (p<0.001); elevated SBP (p<0.001); and higher diastolic DBP (p<0.001). Fasting serum glucose level of T2DM (196.4 ± 86.77mg/dl) was significantly higher than control (90 ± 14.39mg/dl). Mean serum levels of zinc in T2DM (0.744 ± 0.211mg/l) was significantly (p<0.003) lower than control (1.099 ± 0.502mg/l), chromium (0.679 ± 0.413 mg/l) was also significantly (p<0.0001) lower than control (1.064±0.483mg/l) and Cu (0.502±0.148mg/l) had significantly (p<0.0001) higher than control (0.340±0.137mg/l). In this study, the fasting serum glucose were found negatively correlated with serum levels of Zn (r= -0.290, p=0.033), and Cr (r=-0.012, p<0.0001) of diabetic subjects. Non-significant positive relationship was observed between concentrations of serum glucose and Cu(r = 0.438, p =0.113). Conclusion: Findings of this study indicated a lower serum zinc and chromium concentrations and higher copper status were found in type 2 diabetics of Ethiopian subjects. The study suggests that another research should be conducted in the effect of the supplementation of micronutrients on controlling of type 2 diabetic mellitus.

Impact of Production Practices on Organoleptic Intensity Scale of Different Rice Cultivars

Abstract: The purpose of this research was to relate mean organoleptic scores of organically and conventionally grown rice (n = 5) in japonica cultivars (Taikeng No. 16 and Kaohsiung No. 139). The 0-7 organoleptic scale is used in trials to measure the agronomic practices impact on sensory attributes of rice cultivars. However, the precise relationship between farming system and organoleptic analysis of rice remains independent variables. Judges (n = 10) used a common 0-7 scale to report the 6 sensory attributes viz. appearance, aroma, flavor, cohesion, hardness and overall acceptability while keeping cultivar Taikeng No. 9 as control. The scale ranges from – 3 to + 3 as very poor to excellent. The study demonstrates sensory attributes as inherited trait of rice; while no improvement found in cooking and eating quality under seasonal or agronomic variations. Interestingly, the aroma was reported as only better parameter when grown under organic farming compared to conventional farming (– 0.49 and – 0.62 over control, respectively). Also, the positive co-relationship exists between amylose content and organoleptic analysis while antagonistic link to crude protein content. The study cleared that management method, per se, did not influence any flavory attributes and detected no changes by the sensory panel. Further descriptive analysis needed with different conditions such as variety, degree of milling, growing location and moisture content which also played significant role in determining flavor and eating quality of rice cultivars.

Lycopene Potentiates the Protective Effect of Aliskiren on Doxorubicin-Induced Cardiomyopathy in Rats

Abstract: Objective : The present study was designed to explore the combination therapy of lycopene with aliskiren in doxorubicin induced cardiomyopathy. Methods : Cardiomyopathy was induced in Wistar rats by i.p. administration of Doxorubicin (DOX) (15 mg/kg, single dose). Haemodynamic parameters (Systolic, diastolic blood pressure, Heart rate), heart weight, heart weight/body weight ratio, serum lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), oxidative stress (TBARS) and antioxidant enzymes (Glutathione, SOD and catalase) as well as transmission electron microscopein heart tissue were carried out. Results : There was significant increase in blood pressure, serum, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), oxidative stress (TBARS) and significant decrease in heart weight, heart weight/body weight ratio and antioxidant enzymes in cardiomyopathic rats. Combined therapy of lycopene (2 and 4mg/kg) with aliskiren (100 mg/kg) treatment showed pronounced beneficial effect on above parameters. Furthermore lycopene with aliskiren significantly improves the antioxidant defense by increasing reduced glutathione, SOD, catalase, heart size and heart weight/body weight ratio. It is clearly observed from Transmission electron microscopic slides of DOX treated rats, there was swelling of mitochondria with disruption of cristae, rupture of nuclear membrane, condensation and margination of nuclear chromatins which were well protected by lycopene along with aliskiren treatment. Conclusion : Therefore, combination therapy of lycopene with aliskiren offers better treatment for DOX-induced cardiomyopathy than ALK alone.

RDevelopment and Evaluation of Controlled Release Bilayer Tablets of Hydrochlorothiazide and Losartan Potassium

Abstract: The aim of the present research work was to develop bilayer tablet dosage form containing combination of immediate and sustained matrix prepared from Hydrochlorothiazide (HTZ) and Losartan Potassium (LP) respectively for the treatment of hypertension and its associated complications. Immediate release HTZ was prepared using different superdisintegrants. LP sustained layer was prepared by compression technique. Both pre-compression and post-compression parameters were analyzed for all the tablets. In vitro release studies were carried out as per USP in pH (1.2) and phosphate buffer pH (6.8) using USP-XXI type II. Bilayer tablet (F6) formulated using higher concentration of HPMC K 15 exhibiting higher LP release rate (83.553± 0.22) for the period of 12 h. The In vitro release profile of drug from sustained matrix could be best expressed by First order as the plot showed highest linearity (R 2 = 0.990) and diffusion was the dominating mechanism of drug release. The stability and FTIR studies are also indicating the absence of strong interaction between drug and polymer and compatibility among them. Â

Bioactive Metabolites from Indigenous Actinomycetes Isolated from Marine Water

Abstract: Microbial natural products have continued to play an important role in the discovery of novel chemicals for the development of important therapeutic agents. Actinomycetes form a potent reservoir of biologically active secondary metabolites and enzymes. The need for finding novel bioactive compounds for the development of new therapeutic agents is required due to the emergence of antibiotic resistance among pathogenic bacteria. Actinomycetes are considered as one of the best producers of variety of antagonistic compounds that could serve as potential chemotherapeutic agents. The present study was undertaken to find new antagonistic compounds from actinomycetes. Actinomycetes were successfully isolated from marine water samples collected at various locations of Karachi. Initially 39 isolates were collected out of which 23 were found to produce active metabolites against one or more test bacterial cultures. Actinomycetes strains IS26, IS33, and IS39 showed significant potential of having bioactive metabolites. Further, the spectrum of those strains was tested against gram positive and gram negative bacteria and results showed variable potential of actinomycetes to inhibit bacterial growth.