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Decaprenylphosphoryl-β-D-ribose oxidase (DprE1) plays important roles in the biosynthesis of mycobacterium cell wall. DprE1 inhibitors have shown great potentials in the development of new regimens for tuberculosis (TB) treatment. In this study, an integrated molecular modeling strategy, which combined computational bioactivity fingerprints and structure-based virtual screening, was employed to identify potential DprE1 inhibitors. Two lead compounds (B2 and H3) that could inhibit DprE1 and thus kill Mycobacterium smegmatis in vitro were identified. Moreover, compound H3 showed potent inhibitory activity against Mycobacterium tuberculosis in vitro (MIC(Mtb) = 1.25 μM) and low cytotoxicity against mouse embryo fibroblast NIH-3T3 cells. Our research provided an effective strategy to discover novel anti-TB lead compounds.

An experiment was carried out to determine the effect of replacing dietary fish meal protein with earthworm meal protein on growth performance, whole-body composition, and hematology of butter catfish (Ompok pabda). This experiment was conducted in 15 glass aquaria (200 L) with five treatments, each having three replications. Each of the aquaria was stocked with 40 fishes (average weight 0.62 g). The fish were fed with iso-nitrogenous diets having 35% protein (21% protein from fish meal and/or earthworm meal) twice a day up to satiation with the experimental diets, where fish meal protein was replaced by earthworm meal protein at 0% (control), 25%, 50%, 75%, and 100% in the treatments E0, E25, E50, E75, and E100, respectively. At the end of the 8-week rearing period, the best growth performances including weight gain (5.23 ± 0.14 g), percent weight gain (844.15 ± 6.38%), and specific growth rate (4.00 ± 0.11% day−1), and best feed utilization parameters, viz., feed conversion ratio (1.57 ± 0.03) and protein efficiency ratio (2.87±0.04), were found in treatment E75, where 75% of fish meal protein in the diet was replaced with earthworm meal protein. The hematological parameters showed no abnormality due to supplementation of earthworm meal in the diets. At the end of the experiment, whole-body carcass composition, viz., protein, lipid, and ash contents (15.93 ± 0.19%, 7.22 ± 0.60% and 2.14 ± 0.10%, respectively), of O. pabda was higher in treatment E75 compared to control (14.8 2± 0.34, 6.16 ± 0.27, 1.89 ± 0.10, respectively). The results imply that earthworm meal can be used as a protein-rich source to replace fish meal, the major protein source, in the diet of O. pabda up to 75% level without compromising growth, immunity, and body composition.

This study aimed to isolate and identify probiotic bacteria from the gut of Barbonymus gonionotus and evaluate their effects on growth, hematological parameters, and breeding performances of the host. Five probiotic bacteria viz. Enterococcus xiangfangensis (GFB-1), Pseudomonas stutzeri (GFB-2), Bacillus subtilis (GFB-3), Citrobacter freundii (GFB-4), and P. aeruginosa (GFB-5) were isolated and identified using 16S rRNA gene sequencing. Application of a consortium of probiotic strains (1–3 × 1.35 × 109 CFU kg−1) or individual strain such as GFB-1 (1.62 × 109 CFU kg−1), GFB-2 (1.43 × 109 CFU kg−1), GFB-3 (1.06 × 109 CFU kg−1), GFB-4 (1.5 × 109 CFU kg−1) or GFB-5 (1.43 × 109 CFU kg−1feed) through feed significantly improved growth, histological and hematological parameters and reproductive performances of B. gonionotus compared to untreated control. Moreover, the application of these probiotics significantly increased gut lactic acid bacteria and activities of digestive enzymes but did not show any antibiotic resistance nor any cytotoxicity in vitro. The highest beneficial effects on treated fishes were recorded by the application of GFB-1, GFB-2, GFB-3, and a consortium of these bacteria (T2). This is the first report of the improvement of growth and health of B. gonionotus fishes by its gut bacteria.

Context Streblus asper Lour. (Moraceae) is used for the treatment of different ailments, including diabetes, and requires scientific validation. Objective The study evaluates antidiabetic effects, antioxidant potential, and cytotoxicity of leaf and bark extracts of S. asper. Materials and methods Antidiabetic effects were assessed by inducing diabetes in Wistar albino rats (n = 5, six groups included 30 rats) by injecting alloxan [0.25 mg/kg body weight (bw)] intraperitoneally, and efficacy of methanol extracts of leaf and bark, and aqueous extract of leaves were evaluated by oral administration of 300 mg/kg bw of extracts for 3 weeks. Glibenclamide (Dibenol™) was used as a control (10 mg/kg bw). Antioxidant properties were examined by DPPH free radical scavenging activity, and cytotoxicity was investigated using a brine shrimp lethality assay. Results Methanol extracts of leaves and bark, and the aqueous extract of leaves of S. asper, caused significant reductions in blood glucose levels in diabetic rats of 36.83, 70.33, and 52.71%, respectively, after 21 days of treatment. IC50 values in DPPH radical scavenging assessment for those extracts were 58.92, 88.54, and 111.36 µg/mL, respectively. LC50 values for brine shrimp lethality for the extracts were 173.80, 32.36, and 3235.9 µg/mL, respectively. Discussion and conclusions The methanol bark extract of S. asper showed significant antidiabetic activity. This study will significantly contribute to establishing the plant as an alternative medicinal resource for rural populations of Bangladesh and provides an opportunity for further research to identify the primary active compound(s) and establish new drug candidates.

The global emergence and spread of Carbapenem Resistant Enterobacteriaceae have been threatening the ability to treat an infection. Hence the present study was carried out with the aim to isolate important members of Enterobacteriaceae family with identification of carbapenem resistant isolates among them. The study was done in the Department of Microbiology, Rajshahi Medical College with collaboration of different disciplines of RMCH from January 2019 to December 2019. Samples were collected purposively. Causative organisms were isolated by culture and identified by colonial morphology, gram staining and relevant biochemical tests. Identified Enterobacteriaceae those showed resistance to carbapenem (imipenem, meropenem) were tested phenotypically by Modified Hodge Test (MHT) to see carbapenemase production. A total of 97 Enterobacteriaceae were isolated from 275 samples. E. coli (54.64%) was the most frequent isolate. By Modified Hodge Test, 19(19.59%) bacteria were phenotypically confirmed as Carbapenem Resistant Enterobacteriaceae (CRE). This study signifies that carbapenem resistance is increasing at an alarming rate. TAJ 2020; 33(2): 63-68

Omani (Dhofari) frankincense is world famous for its high quality and fragrance. The oleo-gum resin obtained from the tree of Omani species i.e., Boswellia sacra (local name: luban) is widely used by the natives. The aim of the study was to determine the presence of phytochemicals in chloroform and ethanol extracts of B. sacra resin and to evaluate the in vitro cytotoxic, antimicrobial- and antioxidant-activities. The ethanol and chloroform extracts of Hojari luban were obtained in good yield. The extracts were subjected to phytochemical screenings, quantification of total phenolics (TP) and evaluation of in vitro biological activities viz. antioxidant, antibacterial and cytotoxic potential. The bioactivities of four boswellic acids, the major constituents of the oleo-gum resin, were also predicted with the help of PASS and CLC-pred software. Both the extracts showed similar level of TP (14.67 mg/g and 14.79 mg/g in terms of gallic acid equivalent) but polar fraction was noted to be more active against E. coli. A moderate antioxidant activity was shown by the resin extracts however their cytotoxic activity was observed to be quite remarkable at 1000 μg/l which could be attributed to their high boswellic acid content. Results of in silico PASS studies showed boswellic acids to possess an array of useful biological activities including chemopreventive activity. Further, CLC-pred software revealed that only keto boswellic acid is expected to exert antineoplastic activity against pancreatic carcinoma cell lines, however all the four major boswellic acids are likely to be active against non-tumor embryonic lung fibroblast (MRC5). The study confirmed that frankincense is rich in bioactive metabolites which are of significant economic and therapeutic importance. Dhaka Univ. J. Pharm. Sci. 19(2): 105-110, 2020 (December)

Background Essential oils have been known to possess useful biological activities and are widely used in aromatherapy owing to their peculiar aroma. The present study compared the essential oil composition isolated from the Chinese and Saudi ginger cultivars and determined their antimicrobial activity. Methods The volatile compounds were extracted by a hydrodistillation method and the composition was analysed by gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (GC–MS). The antibacterial activity of oils was tested against the pathogenic Gram positive and Gram negative bacterial strains. Potential bioactivities were predicted with the help of Prediction of activity spectra for substances (PASS) software and the molecular docking studies on the mycobacterial protein were carried out using Pyrex with Vina wizard tool. Results A total of 43 and 30 volatile components were identified in the Chinese and Saudi varieties respectively. α–zingiberene in the Chinese and ar-curcumene in Saudi ginger oil were found to be the major volatile constituents. Ginger oil showed better antibacterial activity against Gram positive than Gram negative bacteria. Molecular docking studies showed ar-curcumene to have high binding affinity for the inhibition of bacterial protein. Conclusion The presence of the biological active compounds such as α–zingiberene, ar-curcumene and β-sesquiphellandrene makes ginger essential oil a potential source of antimicrobial agents and as an additive/preservative in the food industry.

Introduction: Klebsiella pneumoniae carbapenemase (KPC) belongs to the Group-A β-lactamases that incorporate serine at their active site and hydrolyze various penicillins, cephalosporins, and carbapenems. Metallo-beta-lactamases (MBLs) are group-B enzymes that contain one or two essential zinc ions in the active sites and hydrolyze almost all clinically available β-lactam antibiotics. Klebsiella pneumoniae remains the pathogen with the most antimicrobial resistance to KPC and MBLs. Methods: This research investigated the blaKPC, and MBL genes, namely, blaIMP, blaVIM, and blaNDM-1 and their phenotypic resistance to K. pneumoniae isolated from urinary tract infections (UTI) in Bangladesh. Isolated UTI K. pneumoniae were identified by API-20E and 16s rDNA gene analysis. Their phenotypic antimicrobial resistance was examined by the Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion method, followed by minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) determination. blaKPC, blaIMP, blaNDM-1, and blaVIM genes were evaluated by polymerase chain reactions (PCR) and confirmed by sequencing. Results: Fifty-eight K. pneumoniae were identified from 142 acute UTI cases. Their phenotypic resistance to amoxycillin-clavulanic acid, cephalexin, cefuroxime, ceftriaxone, and imipenem were 98.3%, 100%, 96.5%, 91.4%, 75.1%, respectively. Over half (31/58) of the isolates contained either blaKPC or one of the MBL genes. Individual prevalence of blaKPC, blaIMP, blaNDM-1, and blaVIM were 15.5% (9), 10.3% (6), 22.4% (13), and 19% (11), respectively. Of these, eight isolates (25.8%, 8/31) were found to have two genes in four different combinations. The co-existence of the ESBL genes generated more resistance than each one individually. Some isolates appeared phenotypically susceptible to imipenem in the presence of blaKPC, blaIMP, blaVIM, and blaNDM-1 genes, singly or in combination. Conclusion: The discrepancy of genotype and phenotype resistance has significant consequences for clinical bacteriology, precision in diagnosis, the prudent selection of antimicrobials, and rational prescribing. Heterogeneous phenotypes of antimicrobial susceptibility testing should be taken seriously to avoid inappropriate diagnostic and therapeutic decisions.

The present study was conducted to identify the two Pseudomonas syringae pv. syringae strains attained from the citrus blast infected tissues and also to find out the antimicrobial potentiality of plant extracts and antagonistic bacteria Bacillus spp. both under in vitro and in vivo conditions. Based on the microscopic observation and biochemical features including colouring, magnitude, size, and form of colonies displayed on LB medium, we speculate that ps17a and ps18a strains were similar to P. syringae pv syringae. For molecular identification, 16S rRNA and multi-locus sequence analysis (MLSA) with two housekeeping gene (rpoD and gyrB) sequences indicated an identical pattern to the corresponding sequences of other P. syringae pv. syringae strains which confirmed that a genetically homologous species of P. syringae pv. syringae was responsible for bacterial blast disease of citrus cultivars. Later, PCR amplification using two primer pairs (B1 and B2) yielded 752-bp fragments to confirm that syrB gene present on both isolated P. syringae pv syringae and reference strains (Pss16) can synthesize syringomycin, a potent toxin for plant pathogenicity induction. Based on the pathogenicity tests, two strains were similar in terms of virulence activity, however, were not analogous thus, having the same level of severity effect to induce bacterial blast. Moreover, antibiotic sensitivity assay showed disproportionate result for both strains which resemble susceptible strains determination. From the in vitro investigation of six plant extracts and three Bacillus isolates against ps17a and ps18a, the ethanolic extract of Allium sativum, Moringa oleifera, and Azadirachta indica showed the highest antibacterial activity against two isolated bacterial strains up to inhibition zone 23.4, 24.4 and 18.2 mm in diameter, respectively while Bacillus isolates proved to be better natural antimicrobial agents against the disease. Finally, based on in vivo experiment, the most effective plant extracts and antagonistic isolates BS5 exhibited significant necrosis growth reduction after 10 weeks of inoculation by ps17a up to 67.48 and 52.88% as compared to 65.42 and 55.3% by ps18a, respectively. Thus, six selected ethanolic plant extracts and three isolates of Bacillus spp. have a broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity which can be used as effective biocontrol agent.

Background: In the prokaryotic unicellular bacteria, Streptomyces species are the most frequent producers of bioactive secondary metabolites. Our continuous quest for new antibiotics from Actinomycetes genera put us forward for isolation of a strain Streptomyces sp. 150 from the soil samples collected at the Daegu University premises in Korea. Objective: The aims of this study was to isolate and identify bioactive compounds from the isolated microorganism and assess the efficacy of the compounds in controlling foodborne pathogens and phytopathogens. Methods: The isolated bacterium was characterized by the taxonomic analyses and a compound was isolated from the fermentation broth by applying different chromatographic techniques e.g. column chromatography, TLC and PTLC. The structure of the compound was established by UV, IR, 1H-NMR and 13C-NMR spectral data analyses. The antibacterial and antifungal efficacy of the compound was assessed by disc diffusion assay, poisoned food technique, MIC determination and SEM analysis. Results: Different chromatographic techniques resulted in isolation and purification of a secondary metabolite from the fermentation broth of Streptomyces sp. 150. The analyses of the spectroscopic data identified the compound as cyclo(L-Pro-L-Tyr). The compound exhibited potential efficacy in controlling all the seven foodborne pathogenic bacteria with corresponding inhibition zone and minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) ranging from 15.1 to 20.1 mm and 15.6 to 62.5 μg/mL respectively, and tested phytopathogenic fungi with mycelium growth inhibition varying from 57.1 to 68.5% and MIC from 125 to 250 μg/mL. Moreover, in scanning electron microscopy, morphological changes in Listeria monocytogenes ATCC 19166 at MIC dose of compound was observed. Conclusion: This study demonstrated the possibility to use the compound cyclo(L-Pro-L-Tyr) in food and agrochemical industries to control foodborne pathogens and phytopathogens.

The current coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has presented unprecedented challenges to global health. Although the majority of COVID-19 patients exhibit mild-to-no symptoms, many patients develop severe disease and need immediate hospitalization, with most severe infections associated with a dysregulated immune response attributed to a cytokine storm. Epidemiological studies suggest that overall COVID-19 severity and morbidity correlate with underlying comorbidities, including diabetes, obesity, cardiovascular diseases, and immunosuppressive conditions. Patients with such comorbidities exhibit elevated levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and oxidative stress caused by an increased accumulation of angiotensin II and by activation of the NADPH oxidase pathway. Moreover, accumulating evidence suggests that oxidative stress coupled with the cytokine storm contribute to COVID-19 pathogenesis and immunopathogenesis by causing endotheliitis and endothelial cell dysfunction and by activating the blood clotting cascade that results in blood coagulation and microvascular thrombosis. In this review, we survey the mechanisms of how severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) induces oxidative stress and the consequences of this stress on patient health. We further shed light on aspects of the host immunity that are crucial to prevent the disease during the early phase of infection. A better understanding of the disease pathophysiology as well as preventive measures aimed at lowering ROS levels may pave the way to mitigate SARS-CoV-2-induced complications and decrease mortality., Graphical abstract

In this study, we explored the role of biochar (BC) and/or urease inhibitor (UI) in mitigating ammonia (NH3) and nitrous oxide (N2O) discharge from urea fertilized wheat cultivated fields in Pakistan (34.01°N, 71.71°E). The experiment included five treatments [control, urea (150 kg N ha−1), BC (10 Mg ha−1), urea + BC and urea + BC + UI (1 L ton−1)], which were all repeated four times and were carried out in a randomized complete block design. Urea supplementation along with BC and BC + UI reduced soil NH3 emissions by 27% and 69%, respectively, compared to sole urea application. Nitrous oxide emissions from urea fertilized plots were also reduced by 24% and 53% applying BC and BC + UI, respectively, compared to urea alone. Application of BC with urea improved the grain yield, shoot biomass, and total N uptake of wheat by 13%, 24%, and 12%, respectively, compared to urea alone. Moreover, UI further promoted biomass and grain yield, and N assimilation in wheat by 38%, 22% and 27%, respectively, over sole urea application. In conclusion, application of BC and/or UI can mitigate NH3 and N2O emissions from urea fertilized soil, improve N use efficiency (NUE) and overall crop productivity.

Thyme is an evergreen shrub that has been utilized in traditional medicine and culinary packages for centuries because of its aroma and medicinal properties. The medicinal properties of thyme leaves are attributed to its volatile constituents. The study aimed to identify the volatile constituents in the oil extracted from the Thyme sp grown in Oman and to evaluate its in vitro antibacterial and antioxidant activity. Fresh Thyme leaves were collected from Muscat, Sultanate of Oman in the month of September 2018. Thyme oil was isolated from leaves by hydro-distillation. The volatile chemical constituents present in the thyme oil were analyzed by Gas Chromatograph coupled with Mass Spectrometer. The ability of isolated oil to scavenge free radicals was evaluated by an in vitro DPPH assay method while antimicrobial activity was tested against S. aureus and E. coli bacterial strains by disc diffusion method. The bioactivity of the major constituent of the oil was predicted with the help of PASS and CLC-pred software. Molecular docking studies were performed by docking server. GC–MS analysis of thyme oil revealed the presence of 11 components. Carvacrol and γ-terpinene were identified as the major volatile constituents in thyme oil. Thyme oil inhibited 71.57% of DPPH radicals at 40 µg/mL concentration. Thyme oil displayed the better antimicrobial activity than the standard drug ampicillin against both the bacteria. Antiseptic, antiinfective, reductant and antimutagenic bioactivities of carvacrol as predicted by PASS support the in vitro experimental results. CLC-pred showed carvacrol to be active against Metastatic melanoma, Oligodendroglioma and Non small cell lung cancer cell lines. The antioxidant and antimicrobial activity of Omani thyme oil could be due to its high content of carvacrol. Omani thyme oil seems to be a viable alternative source of natural antimicrobial agent(s) and warrants further studies to ascertain its therapeutic spectrum of biological studies. Keywords: Antimicrobial, Antioxidant, DPPH, Essential oil, Hydro-distillation, Thyme

Microglia mediated responses to neuronal damage in the form of neuroinflammation is a common thread propagating neuropathology. In this study, we investigated the microglial alterations occurring as a result of sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P) accumulation in neural cells. We evidenced increased microglial activation in the brains of neural S1P-lyase (SGPL1) ablated mice (SGPL1fl/fl/Nes ) as shown by an activated and deramified morphology and increased activation markers on microglia. In addition, an increase of pro-inflammatory cytokines in sorted and primary cultured microglia generated from SGPL1 deficient mice was noticed. Further, we assessed autophagy, one of the major mechanisms in the brain that keeps inflammation in check. Indeed, microglial inflammation was accompanied by defective microglial autophagy in SGPL1 ablated mice. Rescuing autophagy by treatment with rapamycin was sufficient to decrease interleukin 6 (IL-6) but not tumor necrosis factor (TNF) secretion in cultured microglia. Rapamycin mediated decrease of IL-6 secretion suggests a particular mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR)-IL-6 link and appeared to be microglia specific. Using pharmacological inhibitors of the major receptors of S1P expressed in the microglia, we identified S1P receptor 2 (S1PR2) as the mediator of both impaired autophagy and proinflammatory effects. In line with these results, the addition of exogenous S1P to BV2 microglial cells showed similar effects as those observed in the genetic knock out of SGPL1 in the neural cells. In summary, we show a novel role of the S1P-S1PR2 axis in the microglia of mice with neural-targeted SGPL1 ablation and in BV2 microglial cell line exogenously treated with S1P.

The summer of 2018 was very hot and dry with little rain nationwide in Japan. Particularly in July, temperature was 3°C higher in comparison with the normal year. We collected adults, pupae, third or fourth instar larvae of Aedes albopictus (Skuse) in Sendai city, Niigata city, and Kanazawa city in late July and early August 2018. Wild-collected adults were examined for reproductive capacity. On the other hand, wild-collected larvae and pupae were raised to adults in the laboratory and then examined for reproductive capacity. They did not lay eggs after single blood feeding. When they were supplied with bloodmeals twice or three times, they laid a small number of eggs, but these eggs did not hatch. When these adult individuals were maintained at 25°C for 3 wk and then fed with blood, they laid healthy eggs which developed to embryos. It is thought that extreme heat and/or extreme low humidity due to low precipitation reduced female reproductive capacity even if they could take bloodmeals.

Spawning performance and egg quality were compared in wild-caught and F1 generation southern flounder broodstock following induction with mammalian mLHRHa or piscine sGnRHa at different doses. Forty F1 and 33 wild vitellogenic females (mean oocyte diameter ≥ 0.385 mm) were implanted with an 80% cholesterol-20% cellulose pellet at doses (μg/kg bw) of 0 (control), 5 (low), 25 (mid) and 50 (high) mLHRHa, or with similar doses of sGnRHa. Ovulated females (N = 5–8 per treatment) were strip-spawned and eggs were fertilized in vitro with sperm from two males. Egg quality was categorized according to fertilization and hatching success: 75–100% (high), 50–75% (medium-high), 25–50% (medium-low), and 0–25% (low). Egg production (number of eggs/kg female bw × 103) was highest at the low dose of mLHRHa in F1 females (146.4) and sGnRHa in wild females (128) and was lowest at the intermediate dose sGnRHa in F1 females (61.9) and the high dose sGnRHa in wild females (40.6). Number of fertilized eggs produced per kg bw (× 103) was highest at the low dose mLHRHa in F1 females (113.5) and sGnRHa in wild females (95.4) and lowest at the high dose sGnRHa in F1 females (18.7) and sGnRHa in wild females (7.8). Number of yolksac larvae produced per kg bw (× 103) was highest at the low dose of mLHRHa in F1 females (74) and sGnRHa in wild females (73.5) and was lowest at the high dose of sGnRHa in F1 females (2.0) and in wild females (1.2). Number of larvae per kg bw (× 103) surviving to 96 h post-hatching was highest at the low dose mLHRHa in F1 females (67.5) and sGnRHa in wild females (66.5) and was lowest at the high dose sGnRHa in F1 (0.72) and sGnRHa in wild females (0.68). In F1 females, larval production was significantly greater (P

The complement cascade is a central component of innate immunity which plays a critical role in brain inflammation. Complement C3a receptor (C3aR) is a key mediator of post-ischemic cerebral injury, and pharmacological antagonism of the C3a receptor is neuroprotective in stroke. Cerebral ischemia injures brain endothelial cells, causing blood brain barrier (BBB) disruption which further exacerbates ischemic neuronal injury. In this study, we used an in vitro model of ischemia (oxygen glucose deprivation; OGD) to investigate the protective effect of a C3aR antagonist (C3aRA, SB290157) on brain endothelial cells (bEnd.3). Following 24 hours of reperfusion, OGD-induced cell death was assessed by TUNEL and Caspase-3 staining. Western blot and immunocytochemistry were utilized to demonstrate that OGD upregulates inflammatory, oxidative stress and antioxidant markers (ICAM-1, Cox-2, Nox-2 and MnSOD) in endothelial cells and that C3aRA treatment significantly attenuate these markers. We also found that C3aRA administration restored the expression level of the tight junction protein occludin in endothelial cells following OGD. Interestingly, OGD/reperfusion injury increased the phosphorylation of ERK1/2 and C3aR inhibition significantly reduced the activation of ERK suggesting that endothelial C3aR may act via ERK signaling. Furthermore, exogenous C3a administration stimulates these same inflammatory mechanisms both with and without OGD, and C3aRA suppresses these C3a-mediated responses, supporting an antagonist role for C3aRA. Based on these results, we conclude that C3aRA administration attenuates inflammation, oxidative stress, ERK activation, and protects brain endothelial cells following experimental brain ischemia., Graphical Abstract

Active transposable elements (TEs) have drawn more attention as they continue to create new insertions and contribute to genetic diversity of the genome. However, only a few have been discovered in rice up to now, and their activities are mostly induced by artificial treatments (e.g., tissue culture, hybridization etc.) rather than under normal growth conditions. To systematically survey the current activity of TEs in natural rice accessions and identify rice accessions carrying highly active TEs, the transposon insertion polymorphisms (TIPs) profile was used to identify singleton insertions, which were unique to a single accession and represented the new insertion of TEs in the genome. As a result, 10,924 high-confidence singletons from 251 TE families were obtained, covering all investigated TE types. The number of singletons varied substantially among different superfamilies/families, perhaps reflecting distinct current activity. Particularly, eight TE families maintained potentially higher activity in 3,000 natural rice accessions. Sixty percent of rice accessions were detected to contain singletons, indicating the extensive activity of TEs in natural rice accessions. Thirty-five TE families exhibited potentially high activity in at least one rice accession, and the majority of them showed variable activity among different rice groups/subgroups. These naturally active TEs would be ideal candidates for elucidating the molecular mechanisms underlying the transposition and activation of TEs, as well as investigating the interactions between TEs and the host genome.

Objective: The purpose of this research was to observe the age-related growth and histomorphological changes in Japanese quail testes from post-hatching to sexual maturity as well as spermatogenesis.Materials and Methods: After collection, the testes weight, length, width, and index analysis were performed, and histomorphological, histological and immunohistochemical observations were conducted using hematoxylin-eosin, PAS-hematoxylin, and anti-Hsc70t staining, respectively at different ages.Results: The weight of the testes increased gradually with age and reached a peak at 70 days. The length and width of the testes were maximal at 70 days. The testis index was positively correlated with age and body weight (BW) toward sexual maturity. Histologically, at 15 days of age, the seminiferous tubules (STs) remained in immature state with undifferentiated spermatogenic cells of only one to two layers of epithelial cells. At 28 days, the spermatogenic cells were differentiated from spermatogonia to spermatocytes. At 42 days, remarkable enlargement of STs with a series of spermatogenic cell development up to the round spermatids and Leydig cells in the interstitial region. Finally, at 70 days, extremely enlarged STs containing all stages of spermatogenic cells. The diameter and height of STs were maximal at 70 days than that of 42 days of age. A strong Hsc 70t immunoreaction was found in the round to elongated spermatids/spermatozoa near to the lumen of STs, clearly indicating well-characterized spermatogenesis in quail testis at 70 days of age.Conclusion: The findings may contribute to our understanding of quail’s spermatology and provide basic knowledge for reproductive toxicology, physiology and pathology studies.

The human pathogen Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB) is indeed one of the renowned, important, longtime infectious diseases, tuberculosis (TB). Interestingly, MTB infection has become one of the world’s leading causes of human death. In trehalose synthase, the protein NCGM 946K2 146 found in MTB has an important role. For carbohydrate transport and metabolism, trehalose synthase is required. The protein is not clarified yet, though. In this research, an in silico approach was, therefore, formulated for functional and structural documentation of the uncharacterized protein NCGM946K2_146.Three distinct servers, including Modeller, Phyre2, and Swiss Model, were used to evaluate the predicted tertiary structure. The top materials are selected using structural evaluations conducted with the analysis of Ramachandran Plot, Swiss-Model Interactive Workplace, ProSA-web, Verify 3D, and Z scores. This analysis aimed to uncover the value of the NCGM946K2_146 protein of MTB. This research will, therefore, improve our pathogenesis awareness and give us a chance to target the protein compound.

Introduction: Malaria, a devastating infectious parasitic disease, has been recognized by the World Health organization (WHO) as a major public health problem worldwide. It is one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality in the developing countries. There are fewer number of the antimalarial drugs available in the market to combat this deadly disease. The situation is further worsened due to the emergence of resistant strains of Plasmodium falciparum, which warrants the search for novel antimalarial drugs capable of acting at multiple targets to expand the current antimalarial drug arsenal for better therapeutic outcome. Objectives: This review aimed to provide the reader with the recent advances and progress made in the development of chemotherapeutic agents for malaria. Methods: Literature review data on chemistry and antimalarial activity of natural and synthetic heterocyclic compounds published in the last ten years were compiled by referring various peer reviewed journal websites and medical search engines. Results and discussion: This review is covers the recent advances and progress made in the treatment strategies, patent granted, synthetic approaches, mechanism of action with more emphasis on structure activity relationship (SAR) of potential chemotherapeutic agents as antimalarial agents which could pave the way for the development of more effective and potent antimalarial agents. This review might interest the fellow researchers working on the development of novel antimalarial drug candidates with better therapeutic index. Conclusion: Based on the literature covered in the current review article and seeing the recent trends, authors are of the opinion that the multi target conjugated hybrid approach is the best strategy to discover and develop the effective antimalarial agents.

QUASI-EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN PURPOSE: Compare intra and postoperative parameters, surgeons’ satisfaction, and cost-effectiveness between general anesthesia (GA) and spinal anesthesia (SA) on patients undergoing surgery in the lumbar spine surgery. OVERVIEW OF LITERATURE: Surgery on the lumbar spine is the commonest surgical procedure among all spinal surgical practices. Both the GA and SA are shown to be suitable techniques for performing the surgery safely. GA is used most frequently. But, SA became increasingly more popular because it allows the patient to self-position thereby reducing various complications associated with GA in a prone position. METHODS: A total of 64 patients from June 2016 to July 2019 who underwent either discectomy, laminectomy, or lamino-foraminotomy for herniated lumbar disc or canal stenosis in 1 or 2 levels were included. During the study period, 32 patients were non-randomly selected for each of the GA and SA groups. The heart rate (HR), mean arterial pressure (MAP), blood loss, total anesthetic time, surgeons’ satisfaction, analgesic requirements, cost of the procedure, and hospital stay were recorded and compared. RESULTS: In the context of demographic characteristics, baseline HR, or MAP, no significant differences were noted between SA and GA groups. Mean anesthetic time, mean PACU time, mean doses of analgesic requirement, cost of anesthesia, and the surgeon’s satisfaction was significantly lower in the SA Group (P

Cottonseed meal (CSM) proteins from genetically-improved (glandless) low-gossypol seed (GI-CSM, 52.1% crude protein, CP), genetically-modified low-gossypol seed (GMO-CSM, 56.0% CP) and from an untreated regular (glanded) seed (R-CSM 49.9% CP) were evaluated to replace fish meal (FM) protein (59.5% CP) in juvenile southern flounder Paralichthys lethostigma diets. Eight isonitrogenous (45% CP) and isolipidic (16% crude lipid, CL) diets were formulated. A control diet (0% CSM) contained 40% fishmeal (FM) and other practical protein sources. Six diets replaced 50, 75 and 100% FM protein with GI-CSM or GMO-CSM protein. One diet replaced 100% FM protein by R-CSM protein. Fifteen fish (mean = 1.81 g) were stocked in each of twenty-four 75-L tanks (N = 3 per treatment) and were fed the treatment diets for eight weeks. Final percent weight gain was not significantly (P > 0.05) different in fish fed the GI- and GMO- and R-CSM protein diets (898–1405%) compared with the control diet (0% CSM) (1242%), but percent weight gain was greater (P 0.05) interactive effects between CSM sources and FM replacement levels on final weight, FCR and PER were observed. Arginine levels in the diets increased as CSM was increased, consistent with the high arginine concentrations found in CSM. Liver gossypol was only detectable in fish fed the 100% R-CSM diet (37 μg/g). Replacing up to 75% FM protein by GI- or GMO-CSM protein did not affect on whole body omega-3 PUFAs, or liver gossypol. The results suggest that up to 75% of fish meal protein may be replaced by GI- or GMO-CSM protein in the diet of juvenile flounder without adverse effects on growth performance and body composition. Statement of relevance Cottonseed meal (CSM) is a potentially cost-effective alternative plant protein source for use in aquafeeds. The results suggest that a 75% of fishmeal protein could be replaced by genetically-improved and genetically modified (GMO) low gossypol based cottonseed flour protein in the diet of southern flounder. These ultra-low gossypol cottonseed flour proteins could be inexpensive protein sources for the commercial culture of southern flounder and other finfish species.

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is an irreversible progressive neurodegenerative disease. Punica granatum L., (P. granatum) is one of the most important commercial crops of Oman with traditional medicinal claims. The study aimed to quantify the phenolic content of the Omani pomegranate peel extracts and to investigate their antioxidant, anti-cholinesterase activities along with computational studies for the development of AD therapy. The dried peels of P. granatum fruits were exhaustively extracted with chloroform, ethyl acetate and butanol. Peel extracts were subjected to the preliminary phytochemical screening. Colorimetric methods were used to quantify total phenolic and flavonoids contents. The neuroprotective potential of the peel extracts was evaluated by assessing the in-vitro antioxidant activity and their ability to inhibit acetylcholinesterase (AChE) enzyme activity. In-silico analysis and molecular docking of the most promising phenolic metabolite present in pomegranate peel was also carried out. The phytochemical screening showed the presence of flavonoids, tannins, alkaloids, carbohydrates and terpenoids. The total phenolic, flavonoids content & antioxidant activity was found to be higher in the butanol extract. Surprisingly, butanol extract showed slightly lower AChE inhibitory activity than chloroform extract. Catechin showed lower binding energy for AChE in comparison to Beta-secretase-1 (BACE-1). It formed three and two hydrogen bonds with AChE and BACE-1, respectively. The results of the current study provided evidence that butanol extract is rich in phenolics possesses excellent antioxidant activity. Furthermore, in silico and in-vitro studies revealed promising anti-AD activity. Further investigations must be carried out to isolate and develop the chemical constituents of pomegranate peel as neuroprotective agent(s).

The pentacyclic triterpenic acids isolated from the oleo gum resin of various Boswellia species are collectively called as Boswellic acids (BA). The oleo gum resin obtained from Indian variety i.e. Boswellia serrata (Family – Burseraceae) is commonly known as Salai guggal. The resin fraction of Salai guggal is rich in Boswellic acids and its essential oil is composed of a mixture of mono, di and sesquiterpenes while gum fraction chiefly contains pentose and hexose sugars. This oleo-gum resin is quite popular among traditional practitioners of traditional Chinese and Indian Systems of medicine owing to their wide range of useful biological properties such as anti-inflammatory, anti-arthritic, anti-rheumatic, anti-diarrheal, anti-hyperlipidemic, anti-asthmatic, anti-cancer, anti-microbial anti-fungal, anti-complementary and analgesic activity, etc. It has been used as a herbal medicine since the prehistoric time to cure acute and chronic ailments including inflammatory diseases. Phytochemical investigation of this herbal medicine lead to identification of Boswellic acids which are found to be novel, potent, specific anti-inflammatory agents due to non-redox inhibition of 5-lipoxygenase (5-LO) enzyme. However, the other important targets of Boswellic acids also include topoisomerases, angiogenesis, and cytochrome p450 enzymes. This review is a sincere attempt to discuss and present the current status of therapeutic potential, phytochemical as well as pharmacological profile of Boswellic acids primarily obtained from B. serrata .

The present study determined the antifungal activity of the root of extracts Argemone mexicana against 7 fungi using dichloromethane and methanol as solvent. Among these pathogens, 3 were dermatophytes and the rest 4 were nondermatophytes. The dichloromethane extract of Argemone mexicana exhibited moderate to good activity at concentration of 200 ?g/disc but at concentration of 50 ?g/disc, the same extract showed no activity against the tested fungi. The methanol extract were also inactive against the tested pathogens. In brine shrimp toxicity test, it was observed that LC50 value of the dichloromethane extract of Argemone mexicana was 22.35 ?g/ml. From these findings it is indicative that dichloromethane extract of Argemone mexicana is biologically active and may have antifungal principles that could be useful in fungal diseases.KYAMC Journal Vol. 4, No.-2, Jan 2014, Page 402-405

Background/Objective: Gall bladder carcinoma (GBC) is an aggressive malignancy with high mortality and aggressive course, with palliation as the only available option. The signs and symptoms of gall bladder arcinoma are not specific and often present late. Diagnosis is, therefore, often made at advanced stage with poorer outcomes. Identifying biomarkers and cancer specific cellular targets, that will pave the way for novel therapeutic approaches and early diagnosis for gall bladder carcinoma, is urgently needed. Proto-oncogenes (HER-2) and E-Cadherin are commonly deregulated in gallbladder cancer (GBC). This study evaluates the prognostic significance of HER-2 and E-Cadherin in GBC patients in Silchar Medical College.Our main objective was to evaluate frequency of HER-2/neu overexpression in GBC and to seek its correlation, if any with conventional clinicopathological parameters and survival.Methods: A total of 168 cases were received and evaluated for Gall Bladder cancer and control specimens were prospectively collected from 2018-2020. Immunohistochemical staining was done using monoclonal antibodies to semiquantitatively evaluate HER-2 and E-Cadherin protein expression. The criterion for HER-2 and E-Cadherin positivity was set at 10% and >5% tumor cells showing complete, membranous staining. Clinicopathological correlations were drawn with major clinical outcomes. Results: It was observed that out of 168 cases the male to female ratio is 1:5 with highest number of cases in the age group of 50-59 , i.e., 70 cases with 41.7%. The most common location in this study was fundus with 69% of cases (116 out 0f 168), most commonly presented as biliary colic with 56 number of cases. Grading was also done in 168 cases where most number of cases were moderately differentiated with 86 number of cases with a percentage of 51%. Expression of Her2Neu and E-Cadherin was evaluated where highest number of cases were seen with 1+ score in the IHC expressions of both the markers with 81 and 61 number of cases respectively. Conclusion: The increasing global incidence, late presentation leading to poor prognosis and lack of effective therapy make the management of gall bladderv carcinoma really challenging. Our study shows the abnormal expression of HER-2 and E-Cadherin expression in gall bladder carcinoma patients in Southern Assam and suggests that these two markers can be used for potential tool for early detection of gall bladder carcinoma and also can be used for targeted therapy in gall bladder carcinoma.

Plant associated yeasts promote growth and protect plants from various pathogens in multifaceted mechanisms. However, no report has so far been published on the effect of plant endophytic yeasts on growth and development of fishes. This study aimed to isolate and identify endophytic yeasts from pineapple (Ananas comosus) and evaluate the effects of these yeasts-enriched diets on growth, nutrients of carcass and mineral contents of muscles, haematological parameters and morphology of intestine, liver and kidney of Barbonymus gonionotus. Two endophytic yeast species viz. Pichia fermentans strain MAS1 and Meyerozyma caribbica strain MAS2 were isolated from A. comosus cultivated at Kapashia upazila of Gazipur district and district of Rangamati in Bangladesh, respectively. The two yeast strains were identified using internal transcribed spacer region (5.8S rRNA gene) sequencing. Both strains MAS1 [(1–3) × 0.94 × 108 CFU kg−1 feed] and MAS2 [(1–3) × 108 CFU kg−1] containing diets were fed to premature B. gonionotus for 60 days and the fish were reared in the plastic tanks with a good aeration system. Fish treated with pineapple yeasts significantly improved growth, nutrients of carcass, mineral contents of the muscles, and haematological parameters of B. gonionotus compared to control. Histological study revealed that the endophytic yeasts significantly enhanced length (μm) of intestinal villi compared to control fishes. Furthermore, the yeast treated formulated diet considerably reduced the fat content in liver and also improved the function of the kidney of B. gonionotus compared to the control group. Among the treatments, application of strain MAS1 at 0.94 × 108 CFU kg−1 feed showed the highest beneficial effects to B. gonionotus indicating its potentials for practical application in promoting sustainable and safe aquaculture.

To investigate the effects of dietary salt supplementation on growth performance, survival, body composition, and plasma electrolytes of black sea bass Centropristis striata, a feeding trial was conducted in a semi-pilot scale RAS under low salinity (10.8 ± 0.69 g L−1) rearing conditions. Four isolipidic and isonitrogenous test diets were formulated with graded levels of sea salt (99.86% NaCl): 0%, 2.5%, 5%, and 7.5% dry wt. In addition, two control diets (0% salt test diet and a premium commercial diet) were tested for fish raised in full-strength seawater (34 g L−1). Twelve tanks (vol = 2-m3) of the low-salinity RAS were each stocked with black sea bass (mean wt. = 19.6 g) at a density of 100 fish per tank and at a starting salinity of 34 g L−1 and salinity was gradually decreased (0.5 g L−1 per day) to 10.1 g L−1 in 30 days. In addition, six tanks (2-m3) of a RAS supplied with full-strength seawater were each stocked with 100 fish from the same cohort, with 3 tanks fed either of the two control diets (0% salt or the commercial diet). After the 8-month feeding trial, fish grown at low salinity were fed their respective diets for an additional 5 weeks under adverse low-salinity conditions in which salinity was further decreased gradually from 10.1 g L−1 to 4 g L−1. Survival over the 8 months remained high (93–100%) among treatments. Growth (% body weight gain) among the treatments in low salinity ranged from 766 to 825%, comparable to fish raised in full seawater (788–813%). Plasma osmolality (mOsm kg−1) for fish ranged from 336 to 357 among all treatments. However, no significant relationships between weight gain, feed conversion ratio, survival, plasma osmolality, and electrolyte concentrations and dietary salt level were observed among fish raised in low salinity. When salinity was further reduced from 10.1 g L−1 to 4 g L−1, fish fed 0% salt showed poor survival (29%), whereas fish fed 7.5% salt showed highest survival (67%), and a significant (P

Background: Proteases produced by enzymatic method are more environments friendly than chemical process, and they have tremendous potential in the leather industry and in other several industries. In this study extracellular protease producing non pathogenic Bacillus subtilis was isolated from soil sample and relationship between sporulation and extracellular protease synthesis in large scale cultivation was studied. The enzyme was further characterized, purified, and tested for potential application. Result: The molecular weight of the protease was found to be ~30 KDa. Enzyme activity was checked on the presence of different metal ions and effectors. The enzyme was slightly modulated by MG++ ion, and significantly by Hg++ ion, while Zn++ ion slightly decrease the proteolytic activity. Sulfahydryl reagents, DTT slightly and β-ME significantly inhibit the enzyme. EDTA showed no effect on the enzyme suggesting that the enzyme might not be metalloprotease. PMSF, a known serine protease inhibitor was seen to totally inhibit the enzyme which indicates that the enzyme is a serine protease. The optimum enzyme activity was observed after 22 hours of incubation of B. subtilis at 37o C. Conclusions: Crude enzyme contains 285 units of enzyme which have direct dehairing activity. The enzyme was also seen to be able to remove blood and curry stain from clothes; making it a very promising candidate to be used in a leather and detergent industry. Apart from protease the bacterium was also seen to have lipase and collagenase activity. So, the bacteria are potentially good candidate for industrial application.

Background: The leaves of Sesbania grandiflora havebeen used in local traditional medicine since ancienttimes. In the present study we investigated, in vivo andin vitro, the potential health benefits of various fractionsof the ethanolic extract of these leaves. Materials andmethods: Crude ethanolic extract (CEE) of S. grandifloraleaves was partitioned into ethyl acetate soluble fraction(EASF), petroleum ether soluble fraction (PSF), carbontetrachloride soluble fraction (CTSF), chloroform solublefraction (CSF), and water soluble fraction (WSF).The extracts were evaluated for their thrombolytic,membrane stabilizing (anti-inflammatory), antimicrobial,and antidiarrheal activities. The results were comparedto the effects of standard drugs: streptokinase for thethrombolytic, acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) for the membranestabilizing, kanamycin for antimicrobial, and loperamidefor the antidiarrheal activities. Results: For thrombolysis,EASF showed the highest % of clot lysis (59.6%) amongall fractions, while streptokinase and water resulted in69.2% and 3.1% clot lysis respectively. With respect tothe membrane stabilizing activity, the EASF significantlyinhibited the hemolysis of human erythrocytes induced byhypotonic solution (64.3±0.6%) or by heat (57.2±0.7%).The other fractions exhibited no membrane stabilizingeffect. By contrast ASA resulted in 73.9±0.3% inhibitionof osmotically induced hemolysis and a slightly lowerlevel of inhibition in the case of heat-induced hemolysis(70.1±0.3%). The antidiarrheal activity was evaluated inthe mouse model. The unfractionated, CEE reduced thenumber of defecation episodes by 25.0% at a dose of 200mg/kg and by 41.1% at dose 400 mg/kg body weight. Allextract fractions exhibited significant antibacterial activity,which was higher against Gram negative bacteria than Grampositive bacteria. Since the pharmacological activities of S.grandiflora are due to the presence of bioactive compoundswe detected and quantified the presence of significant levelsof flavonoid and tannin substances. Conclusion: Leaves of Sesbania grandiflora have the potential to be used as aremedy for thrombosis, diarrhea, and inflammatory diseasesand against few important bacterial pathogens. Key words: Sesbania grandiflora , thrombolytic, membrane stabilizing, antimicrobial and antidiarrhoeal activities

Eight isonitrogenous (46% crude protein) and isolipidic (14% crude lipid) diets were formulated for juvenile black sea bass Centropristis striata to replace menhaden fish meal (FM) protein (59.5% CP) by three cottonseed meal (CSM) proteins: a CSM prepared from glandless seed (GCSM, 50.4% CP), a CSM that had been solvent extracted with acidic ethanol to remove the gossypol (SCSM, 53.8% CP), and a CSM prepared from regular (glanded) cottonseed (RCSM, 45% CP). Three diets replaced 50, 75 and 100% of FM protein with GCSM, and three diets replaced 50, 75 and 100% of FM protein with SCSM. One diet replaced 100% FM protein with RCSM protein. A control diet (0% CSM) was formulated with high FM protein and other practical protein sources. l -methionine and l -lysine were supplemented to the diets to equal the control diet. Fifteen fish were stocked in each of twenty-four 75-L tanks, and each test diet was fed to triplicate groups of fish (mean initial weight = 7.7 ± 0.10 g) for 56 days at 22–24 °C, 32–35 salinity, and ambient photoperiod conditions. Fish were fed twice per day to apparent satiation. Final (day 56) mean body weight (BW, 24.16–31.62 g), body weight gain (BWG, 211.2–311.3%), specific growth rate (SGR, 1.70–2.18%/d), and feed intake (FI, 0.37–0.43 g/fish/d) were not significantly different (P > 0.05) among the control, GCSM or SCSM treatments, but were reduced (P Statement of relevance Cotton seed flour is an inexpensive agricultural by-product. The results demonstrate successful replacement of fish meal protein with genetically-improved cottonseed flour protein in the diet of black sea bass. These findings may substantially lower aquafeed costs (a key operational cost) for finfish growout operations to boost profitability and accelerate expansion of commercial production of black sea bass and other finfish species.

Management of rodent with rodenticide and trapping is frequently ineffective due to bait or trap shyness and neophobia. A study was conducted in the laboratory of Vertebrate Pest Division, BARI, Gazipur and field to increase the attractiveness of bait or trap to B. bengalensis and enhance the consumption of novel food by using different concentration of carbon disulfide (CS 2 ). Study revealed that addition of CS 2 improved bait acceptance of food. Five ppm concentration of CS 2 , rat consumed significantly greater amount of cereal bait than untreated plain wheat bait. In semi-natural field test, significantly greater number (59%) of rat was trapped in CS 2 scented bait than without scented bait (41%). In the field study higher population reduction (85-91%) was achieved with CS 2 scented zinc phosphide bait than without scented zinc phosphide bait (50%). That is 80% higher reduction of rodent population was achieved with CS 2 treated zinc phosphide bait. From this study we conclude that CS2 can improve the efficiency and consumption of poison bait and can increase trap success. SAARC J. Agri., 14(1): 93-101 (2016)

A study was conducted at Bagmara upazilla under the district of Rajshahi in Bangladesh during the period of 2 month from 20 September 2015 to 14 November 2015 to determine the prevalence of PPR in goat. A total of 72 diseases cases were recorded randomly irrespective of age, sex and breed over the study period. In the present study the overall prevalence of PPR in goat was 27.78%. In black Bengal goat, the prevalence of PPR in different age group i.e. up to 6 month, 7-12 month, 13-19 month, above 19 month were 18.18%, 42.30%, 22.22% and 12.50%, respectively. Over all, female black bengal goat (46.42%) was more infected than male (12.00%). The prevalence of PPR in different age group i.e. 7-12 month, 13-19 month were 42.85% and 25.00%, respectively; and males (16.66%) and female (23.07%) of Jamunapari goat were recorder. In general, black bengal goats have the higher prevalence (30.18%) than Jamunapari goat (21.05%). The nonimmunized goat showed higher prevalence (38.77%) than immunized (4.34%) goat. All data were analyzed by using ?2 tests with P value at (P

Spondias pinnata is a medicinal herb belonging to the family of Anacardiaceae. Locally it is known as Amra and has a history of ethno-medicinal properties. The crude ethanolic extract along with different partitionates of the leaves of S. pinnata were evaluated for their possible thrombolytic and membrane stabilizing activities. The activities of the leaf extract were evaluated by using standard drugs; streptokinase for thrombolytic and acetyl salicylic acid for anti-inflammatory activities. In this study, among all partitionates the ethyl acetate soluble fraction showed highest % of clot lysis (58.06%) as compared to (69.23%) and (3.03%) exhibited by the standard streptokinase and water. On the other hand, ethyl acetate soluble fractionates also significantly inhibits the haemolysis of human erythrocyte membrane both in induced by hypotonic solution (65.33 ± 0.50%) and by heat (56.22 ± 0.69%), respectively as compared to (75.92 ± 29%) and (71.12 ± 0.26%) demonstrated by acetyl salicylic acid. Our study revealed that satisfactory amount of flavonoid content (132.27 ± 0.25) showed a significant and positive correlation between total flavonoid content with thrombolytic and membrane stabilizing activities.Bangladesh Pharmaceutical Journal 19(1): 48-52, 2016

Eclipta alba is a medicinal herb belonging to the family of Asteraceae. Locally it is known as Kalokeshi and has a history of ethno-medicinal properties. The crude ethanolic extract of E. alba leaves was partitioned successively by solvents of different polarities. The crude extract along with different partitionates was evaluated for their possible antimicrobial, thrombolytic and membrane stabilizing activities. In this study, n-hexane soluble fraction (HXSF) showed 55.56% maximum activity against thrombosis in comparison with streptokinase (SK) 62.67%. For hypotonic solution- and heat-induced conditions, the n-hexane soluble fractionate (67.35 ± 0.50%) significantly inhibited the haemolysis of HRBCs by 67.35 ± 0.50% and 62.12 ± 0.69%, respectively as compared to the standard acetyl salicylic acid (77.91 ± 0.29%). The ethanol extract of the plant showed higher inhibitory action against Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus subtilis, Proteus mirabilis and Pseudomonas fluroescens. The total flavonoid content was quite significant in ethanolic extract (142.17 ± 0.15 mg/g). Hence, the results of the present study revealed that the leaves of this traditional medicinal plant are a remedy for thrombosis, red blood cell membrane stabilization and microbial infections against some human pathogens.Dhaka Univ. J. Pharm. Sci. 14(2): 207-213, 2015 (December)

Giant cell tumor (GCT) of bone is a benign locally aggressive tumor whose biological behavior is unpredictable. Currently, there are no definitive clinical, histological, biochemical, or immunological parameters that can predict its behavior. This study was undertaken to examine whether delineation of reactive and neoplastic stromal component of GCT can help in this regard. 55 cases of GCT (30 primary, 25 recurrent) were subjected to histopathological grading, immunohistochemistry, and image analysis. Spindling of stroma was more frequent in recurrent GCT with 64% cases having more than 50% spindled stroma (p

Objective To evaluate and compare the antioxidant activity, total phenolic contents (TPCs) and in vitro antidiabetic activity of various pits extracts obtained from five Omani date cultivars. Methods Sun-dried mature fruits of five Omani date varieties, namely, Fardh, Naghal, Khalas, Khinazi and Khasab were purchased from the local market in Muscat, Oman in the month of September 2014. Four seed extracts viz. water, ethanol, methanol and acetone were prepared for each date variety and their antioxidant activities were investigated by 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl, hydrogen peroxide scavenging method and reducing power assay method, respectively. In vitro antidiabetic activity of the date pit extracts was evaluated by measuring their inhibitory effect on α-glucosidase and α-amylase level. TPCs were also quantified colorimetrically. Results The results indicated that TPC of date seeds was solvent dependent. Acetone, ethanol and methanol were found to be significantly better solvents than water in extracting phenolic compounds from the date seeds. Pit extracts exhibited moderate to good in vitro antioxidant activity and increased reducing power. Among all date pit extracts, water extract exhibited significant in vitro antidiabetic activity in comparison to standard drug, acarbose. Conclusions The present study confirms that disposed waste of Omani dates is a rich source of dietary antioxidant because of its high TPC. The pits due to their inhibitory effects on α-glucosidase and α-amylase level could be used as a monotherapy along with an appropriate diabetic diet and exercise or might be in conjunction with antidiabetic therapy to manage and prevent progression of diabetes.

Although di-n-butyl phthalate (DBP) induces germ cell apoptosis, the underlying mechanism is not yet clear in quail. In this study, prepubertal quails were given a single dose of 500mg kg−1 DBP by gavage and were then killed 3, 6 and 24h after treatment. There was a significant reduction in intratesticular testosterone (ITT) concentrations and testicular steroidogenic enzyme mRNA expression and a significant increase in germ cell apoptosis in DBP-treated compared with control quails at all time points. Maximum apoptosis was detected 6h after treatment and the maximum reduction in testosterone concentrations was at 3h. To investigate whether DBP suppressed testicular steroidogenesis by affecting the hypothalamic–pituitary–testicular axis, we analysed pituitary LH subunit β (Lhb) mRNA expression and serum LH concentrations. At all time points, pituitary Lhb expression and serum LH concentrations were significantly decreased following DBP treatment. The present observations suggest the possibility that DBP blocked LH secretion from the hypothalamus and/or pituitary, thereby decreasing LH stimulation of Leydig cells and reducing ITT concentrations. DBP-induced decreases in ITT concentrations may cause changes to the physical structure of Sertoli cells, which, in turn, may induce germ cell apoptosis.

Background: Multidrug resistant (MDR) bacteria are an emerging public health issue in all over the world especially in developing countries like Bangladesh. Objective: This study was aimed to determine the prevalence of MDR Proteus species in burn wound infected patients admitted in Burn and Plastic Surgery Unit, Rajshahi Medical College Hospital (RMCH). Methodology: This cross sectional study was conducted at Microbiology Department of Rajshahi Medical College, Rajshahi, Bangladesh. A total of 212 wound swabs were collected and processed as per standard protocol from January to December 2016 for a period of one year. The isolation and identification of Proteus species was done by conventional microbiological process and antimicrobial susceptibility was performed by Modified Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion method. The Proteus species was further classified into MDR on the basis of standardised international criteria. Result: Among the 196 isolates from 212 wound swabs, Proteus spp. was the 2nd most frequent isolated organism (23.47%) following Pseudomonas aeruginosa (34.18%). Two species of Proteus were identified; Proteus mirabilis (65.22%) and Proteus vulgaris (34.78%). More than 75.0% Proteus spp. showed resistance to ciprofloxacin and ceftriaxone where meropenem was the highest sensitive drug (>93%). MDR Proteus spp. were 63.04% among which Proteus mirabilis and Proteus vulgaris were 60% & 68.75% MDR respectively. Conclusion: This study culminates the high prevalence of MDR Proteus spp. in Burn Unit of RMCH and decreased sensitivity to commonly used antibiotics. Therefore a greater emphasis on prevention of MDR bacterial colonization and antibiotic stewardship are imperative.