Search

Cobalt nitrate, nickel sulphate, hydrogen peroxide, sodium nitroprusside, and culture filtrates of Pseudomonas monteili, Bacillus circularans, Trichoderma atroviridae, and Trichoderma harzianum were tested to elicit ginsenoside production in a cell suspension line of Panax quinquefolius. Abiotic elicitors preferentially increased panaxadiols whereas biotic elicitors upregulated the panaxatriol synthesis. Cobalt nitrate (50 μM) increased total ginsenosides content by twofold (54.3 mg/L) within 5 days. It also induced the Rc synthesis that was absent in the control cultures. Elicitation with P. monteili (2.5 % v/v, 5 days) also supported 2.4-fold enhancement in saponin yield. Elicitation by T. atroviridae or hydrogen peroxide induced the synthesis of Rg3 and Rh2 that are absent in ginseng roots. The highest ginsenosides productivity (3.2-fold of control) was noticed in cells exposed to 1.25 % v/v dose of T. atroviridae for 5 days. Treating cells with T. harzianum for 15 days afforded maximum synthesis and leaching (8.1 mg/L) of ginsenoside Rh1.

Aim of the study was to develop solid lipid nanoparticles (SLN) of triamcinolone acetonide (TA) and to study the effect of various process variables in order to optimize the formulation for effective delivery. Drug loaded SLNs were successfully prepared and characterized by TEM, XRD and DSC study. Process variables like surfactant concentration, drug concentration, lipid concentration etc. showed significant effect on the particle size and entrapment efficiency. SLNs exhibited prolonged drug release following Higuchi release kinetics (R(2) = 0.9909). In vitro skin distribution study demonstrated systemic escape of drug from TA loaded SLNs which might eliminate side effects associated with systemic exposure.

Over the past few years, nanoparticles and their role in drug delivery have been the centre of attraction as new drug delivery systems. Various forms of nanosystems have been designed, such as nanoclays, scaffolds and nanotubes, having numerous applications in areas such as drug loading, target cell uptake, bioassay and imaging. The present study discusses various types of nanoparticles, with special emphasis on ceramic nanocarriers. Ceramic materials have high mechanical strength, good body response and low or non-existing biodegradability. In this article, the various aspects concerning ceramic nanoparticles, such as their advantages over other systems, their cellular uptake and toxicity concerns are discussed in detail.

The aim of the current study was to develop and optimize Fluocinolone acetonide (FA) loaded nanostructured lipid carriers (NLC) and to evaluate its potential as topical delivery system for management of psoriasis. FA loaded NLCs were successfully developed by modified microemulsion method and optimized using 3-level Box-Behnken design. NLCs were evaluated for particle size, polydispersity index, zeta potential, drug entrapment efficiency and drug loading. Further X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), in vitro release, in vitro skin distribution and stability study were also performed. Transmission electron microscopy confirmed spherical shape of prepared NLCs. Complete encapsulation of drug in the nanoparticles was confirmed by XRD and DSC. Release study showed prolonged drug release from the NLCs following Higuchi release kinetics and Zero order release kinetics, whereas pure FA suspension exhibited faster drug release following Zero order release kinetics with R(2) value of 0.995. Stability study confirmed that NLCs were stable for 3months at 4°C. Furthermore, in vitro skin distribution studies showed presence of significant amount of FA in the epidermal and dermal layer of skin when treated with FA loaded NLCs suspension while plain FA suspension showed significantly lesser amount of FA in the epidermis and dermis. Moreover, selective retention of FA in the epidermis might eliminate adverse side effects associated with systemic exposure. Thus FA loaded NLCs could be a potential system for psoriasis treatment but to create clinical value of the present system further studies are needed in clinically relevant models., (Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Objectives: The purpose of this study was to investigate the efficacy of a standardized polyherbal formulation consists of aqueous extracts from six herbs, in patients with Type-2 diabetes mellitus., Design: Randomized, active control study., Interventions: 93 patients, newly diagnosed with Type-2 diabetes mellitus were randomly allocated to group 1 (received polyherbal capsules 500 mg/day, up titrated weekly to a maximum of 3 g/day) and group 2 (received Metformin 500 mg/day, up titrated weekly to a maximum of 2 g/day)., Main Outcome Measures: The primary endpoint was effect on the change from baseline in blood glucose (Fasting blood Glucose and Postprandial blood glucose), and glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c). The secondary outcome includes the effect on lipid levels, liver enzymes and renal function test., Results: After 24 weeks, mean laboratory measured fasting and post prandial blood glucose showed a decrease of 25.52% and 24.22% in polyherbal formulation (PHF) treated group, compared to 31.46% and 24% decrease in Metformin treated group (estimated treatment difference -10.8; 95% CI -22.63 to 1.03 and -0.36; -12.1 to 11.38, respectively). Reduction in HbA1c was also similar for PHF and Metformin (estimated treatment difference 0.01; 95% CI -0.51 to 0.53). However, the decrease in the mean total cholesterol level was more pronounced in PHF treated group (estimated mean difference 61.3; 95% CI 55.32 to 67.28) than Metformin treated group (estimated mean difference 41.12; 95% CI 34.92 to 47.32). Also, there was statistical significance between the treatment groups in total cholesterol level at the end of six months treatment (estimated treatment difference 20.18; 95% CI 12.34 to 28.02)., Conclusion: The study demonstrated that daily intake of this PHF decreased the glycemic level and improved lipid homeostasis, while maintaining the other serum biochemical levels to the normal, and therefore it may be useful for the patients with Type-2 diabetes. This trial is registered in the Clinical Trials Registry - India (CTRI) (CTRI/2014/03/004490)., (Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Lactoferrin (Lf), an iron-binding protein from the transferrin family has been reported to have numerous functions. Even though Lf was first isolated from milk, it is also found in most exocrine secretions and in the secondary granules of neutrophils. Antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory activity reports on lactoferrin identified its significance in host defense against infection and extreme inflammation. Anticarcinogenic reports on lactoferrin make this protein even more valuable. This review is focused on the structural configuration of iron-containing and iron-free forms of lactoferrin obtained from different sources such as goat, camel and bovine. Apart for emphasizing on the specific beneficial properties of lactoferrin from each of these sources, the general antimicrobial, immunomodulatory and anticancer activities of lactoferrin are discussed here. Implementation of nanomedicinial strategies that enhance the bioactive function of lactoferrin are also discussed, along with information on lactoferrin in clinical trials.

The age-dependent production kinetics of ginsenosides and an anthocyanin pigment in a cell suspension line of Panax sikkimensis was followed in vitro. Highest total saponin content [7.37 mg/g dry weight (DW)] and biomass accumulation (% biomass increase = 209.67) in this line occurred after 3 and 5 weeks of culture, respectively. Accumulation of individual protopanaxatriol (Re, Rg1, and Rg2) and protopanaxadiol (Rb1, Rb2, and Rc) ginsenosides showed a variable pattern of accumulation independent of cell biomass buildup during the 7-week culture cycle. However, total content of triol ginsenosides was always significantly more than the diol group of ginsenosides, being 183.2-, 63.5-, and 72.1-folds at third, fourth, and fifth week stage of cell growth. Interestingly, in addition to these ginsenosides, the cell line also co-accumulated an anthocyanin pigment in vitro. The pigment content increased gradually from 8.66 to 14.29 mg/g DW after first to fifth week followed by a marginal fall to 12.79 and 10.95 mg/g DW during next 2 weeks. Therefore, in terms of total recovery of saponins (77.4 mg/l) and anthocyanin (199.16 mg/l), harvesting of cells after 3 and 5 weeks of growth was most profitable, respectively. The possible utility of this dual purpose cell line in nutraceutical industry is discussed.

Aim: Recent studies claim that haemostatic agents can be used as bone graft substitutes. The aim of this study was to compare the efficacy of alloplastic bone graft with absorbable gelatin sponge in prevention of periodontal defects distal to mandibular second molar after the surgical removal of impacted mandibular third molars., Materials and Methods: A prospective, randomized, single-blind split-mouth study was designed. The study consisted of 25 patients requiring surgical removal of bilateral impacted mandibular 3rd molars. The surgical sites were randomly divided into 2 groups: group I: G-graft (hydroxyapatite + collagen, study group) and group II: Abgel (absorbable gelatin sponge, control group). Patients were recalled on lst and 7th postoperative days and 3rd and 6th postoperative months. Probing depth, alveolar bone levels and soft tissue wound healing were evaluated. Paired t test was used to compare pre and post-operative alveolar bone levels and probing depth (PD). Wilcoxon signed ranks test was used to compare the wound healing., Results: The soft tissue wound healing, PD and the distance between the cemento-enamel junction on the distal aspect of mandibular second molar (point A) and the alveolar crest on the distal aspect of the same tooth (point B) were significantly higher in group I as compared to group II., Conclusion: This study reveals an increase in the alveolar bone level, improvement of PD and better wound healing in group I. Group II subjects required longer healing time than the normal. The authors disagree the claim that the haemostatic agents can be used as bone graft substitutes. However, long-term, multicenter, randomized controlled clinical trials are required.

The aim of this study was to develop, optimize and evaluate the potential of solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) as a topical delivery system for targeted and prolonged release of Fluocinolone acetonide (FA). FA loaded SLNs were successfully developed by an emulsification-ultrasonication method and optimized using 17-run, 3-factor, 3-level Box-Behnken design of Design Expert software. SLNs were evaluated for particle size, polydispersity index, zeta potential, drug encapsulation efficiency and drug loading. Shape and surface morphology of the SLNs confirmed spherical shape of nanoparticles when investigated under a transmission electron microscope. Complete encapsulation of drug in the nanoparticles was confirmed by powder X-ray diffraction and differential scanning calorimetry. The drug release study confirmed prolonged release from the SLNs following Higuchi release kinetics with R(2) value of 0.995 where as pure drug suspension exhibited faster drug release following zero order release kinetics with R(2) value of 0.992. Stability study confirmed that SLNs were stable for 3 months at 4 °C. Furthermore, in vitro skin distribution studies showed presence of significant amount of FA on the epidermal layer of skin when treated with FA loaded SLNs suspension while plain FA suspension showed minimum amount of FA in the epidermis and dermis. Moreover, selective accumulation of FA in the epidermis might eliminate adverse side effects associated with systemic exposure. Results demonstrated that FA loaded SLNs could be a promising modality for psoriasis treatment but to establish clinical utility of the present system further studies are required in clinically relevant models., (Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) study of Mn(2+) ions doped in sarcosinium oxalate monohydrate (SOM) single crystal is done at liquid nitrogen temperature (LNT). EPR spectrum shows a bunch of five fine structure lines and further they split into six hyperfine components. Only one interstitial site was observed. With the help of EPR spectra the spin Hamiltonian parameters including zero field splitting (ZFS) parameters are evaluated. The optical absorption study at room temperature is also done in the wavelength range 195-1100 nm. From this study cubic crystal field splitting parameter, Dq=730 cm(-1) and Racah inter-electronic repulsion parameters B=792 cm(-1), C=2278 cm(-1) are determined. ZFS parameters D and E are also calculated using crystal field parameters from superposition model and microscopic spin Hamiltonian theory. The calculated ZFS parameter values are in good match with the experimental values obtained by EPR., (Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

A simple and reliable high-performance liquid chromatographic method was successfully developed for the study of fingerprint chromatograms of extract and fractions from the leaves of Spathodea campanulata (SC) using verminoside (1) and 1-O-(E)-caffeoyl-β-gentiobiose (2) as marker compounds. Antioxidant activity of SC was determined by using free radical of 2,2-diphenyl-1-picryl-hydrazyl-hydrate as an experimental model. The docking study of selected target, tyrosinase and ligands (ascorbic acid, compounds 1 and 2) was performed through Autodock Vina v0.8. Fingerprints of methanol, chloroform, ethylacetate, n-butanol and water extracts could resolve 13, 11, 22, 16 and 5 peaks, respectively. Extract, fractions and compounds 1 and 2 previously isolated from SC displayed remarkable antioxidant activity with radical-scavenging activity ranging from 2.5 to 6.7 μg/mL. In silico study identified compounds 1 and 2 as potential inhibitors of tyrosinase correlating with the observed antioxidant activity in vitro.

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is an incessant, reverting, inflammatory disorder of the gastrointestinal tract encompassing two entities, namely, Crohn's disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC). Numerous protocols have been explored to treat these dreadful diseases, including the use of different IBD drugs with different modes of action and routes of administration. Constant progression in the development of newer formulations, chemical modifications, stimuli-responsive systems, and novel approaches using colloidal and cellular carriers have led to effective treatments of gastric inflammation. Colloidal carriers including vesicular and particulate systems such as liposomes, transferosomes, solid lipid nanoparticles, microspheres; cellular carriers including erythrocytes, macrophages, and recombinant bacteria; and other systems such as osmotic pressure and plug control release have gained unique positions as drug carriers. Here, we investigate IBD in terms of its pathogenesis, role of genetic factors, currently available treatment options and their modes of action, pharmacokinetics, marketed products, side effects of individual IBD drugs, recent developments, modifications in the delivery of various drugs through novel colloidal drug carriers, and future prospects.

The transdermal route of drug delivery has gained immense interest for pharmaceutical researchers. The major hurdle for diffusion of drugs and bioactives through transdermal route is the stratum corneum, the outermost layer of the skin. Currently, various approaches such as physical approach, chemical approach, and delivery carriers have been used to augment the transdermal delivery of bioactives. This review provides a brief overview of mechanism of drug transport across skin, different lipid vesicular systems, with special emphasis on lipid vesicular systems including transfersomes, liposomes, niosomes, ethosomes, virosomes, and pharmacosomes and their application for the delivery of different bioactives.

In recent years, dendrimers have emerged as the most widely explored materials for theranostics emphasizing their potential in therapeutic delivery and diagnostics as well as in pharmaceutical technology. Amongst them, PAMAM dendrimers have been extensively studied for their prospects in various biomedical applications due to their defined structures and distinctive features such as monodispersity, uniformity and amenability to functionalization. Here, low generation PAMAM dendrimers (G2-G4) have been modified via Michael addition reaction followed by amidation with an oligoamine linker, tetraethylenepentamine (TEPA). Subsequently, these modified dendrimers were characterized by physicochemical techniques and evaluated for their capability to transfer nucleic acids in vitro. The results displayed significant improvements in the transfection efficiency in both HeLa and A549 cells maintaining higher cell viability. Sequential delivery of GFP-specific siRNA resulted in ∼73% suppression of the target gene. Flow cytometry results revealed that one of the formulations, mG3-pDNA complex, exhibited the highest gene transfection (∼49-68%) outperforming pDNA complexes of native dendrimers and the standard transfection reagent, Superfect (∼32-36%). All these results ensure the potential of the modified dendrimers as effective vectors for future gene delivery applications.

Agrobacterium tumefaciens (EHA-105 harboring pCAMBIA 1304)-mediated transgenic plant production via direct regeneration from leaf and elite somaclones generation through indirect regeneration in Stevia rebaudiana is reported. Optimum direct regeneration frequency along with highest transformation frequency was found on MS + 1 mg/l BAP + 1 mg/l NAA, while indirect regeneration from callus was obtained on MS + 1 mg/l BAP + 2 mg/l NAA. Successful transfer of GUS-positive (GUS assay and PCR-based confirmation) transgenic as well as four somaclones up to glasshouse acclimatization has been achieved. Inter-simple sequence repeat (ISSR) profiling of transgenic and somaclonal plants showed a total of 113 bands, out of which 49 were monomorphic (43.36 %) and 64 were polymorphic (56.64 %). Transgenic plant was found to be closer to mother plant, while on the basis of steviol, stevioside, and rebaudioside A profile, somaclone S2 was found to be the best and showed maximum variability in ISSR profiling.

Phyllanthus amarus is a medicinal herb used in traditional Indian medicine for liver disorders. Several researches also show that it acts primarily in the liver, but the molecules were unidentified for liver protective activity. This study was to determine whether the lignans isolated from P. amarus attenuates the D-galactosamine (GalN) / Lipopolysaccharide (LPS)- induced acute hepatitis in mice. Standardize mixture of lignans (slPA) isolated from leaves of P. amarus using automated chromatographic technique was used for experiments. Experimental mice were orally pre-treated with slPA (10, 30 and 100 mg/kg) for 7 days before intra-peritoneal injection of GalN/LPS. Acute hepatitis in mice was confirmed by significant increase of pro-inflammatory cytokines, and hepatotoxic markers. Pre-treatment of slPA exhibit significant liver protection in dose dependant mannaer. In-silico molecular docking studies also suggests that lignans are preferentially more active due to strong binding affinity against pro-inflammatory cytokines; IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α. The electronic parameters of lignans for bioavailability, drug likeness and toxicity were within the acceptable limit. In-vivo and in-silico results suggest that pretreatment of slPA exhibit potent hepatoprotection against GalN/LPS-induced hepatitis in mice and the liver protective effects may be due to the inhibition of inflammatory mediators.

Ethnopharmacological Relevance: Conyza sumatrensis (CS) is an extensively used medicinal herb in the tropics for varied ailments related to pain, inflammation and malaria. Though in constant folkloric use, scientific validations are proving valuable., Aim of the Study: Evaluate the safety profile of methanol extract from CS in mice and rats through acute and sub-chronic toxicity studies respectively., Material and Methods: Acute toxicity study involved the single oral administration of CS at 1000, 2000 and 3000mg/kg in mice, while the sub chronic toxicity was carried upon in rats at doses 250, 500 and 1000mg/kg/day for 28 days. Besides body weight, general behaviour and mortality, serum biochemical parameters and liver histology were assessed after 7 and 28 days for acute and sub-chronic study respectively. The parameters were again checked on days 14 and 56 in order to assess the recovery from damage, if any. HPLC fingerprinting of the aqueous and methanol extract was performed through C18 column using water: acetonitrile as mobile phase with observations at 240nm., Results: In the acute toxicity test, single oral dose of 1000, 2000 and 3000mg/kg of CS did not result in any behavioural changes or mortality, indicating non toxicity. In sub-chronic toxicity studies in rats, no mortality was observed at 250, 500 and 1000mg/kg/day when administered orally for a period of 28 days. Except Serum Glutamate Pyruvate Transaminase (SGPT) level in acute study and Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP), SGPT and Serum Glutamate Oxaloacetate Transaminase (SGOT) level in sub-chronic study, all the observational, haematological and biochemical parameters studied showed non-significant changes. Histological examination of liver did not reveal any treatment-related effects in any of the studies. Moreover, haematological and biochemical changes orchestrated by CS got normalised after 14 and 56 days post-treatment in acute and sub-chronic toxicity respectively. The HPLC fingerprint could resolve 11 and 28 peaks from aqueous and methanol extracts respectively., Conclusion: The experiments indicate the methanol extract to be safe even at high and repeated doses in pre-clinical studies even though the constituents are more than in aqueous extract., (© 2013 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Psoriasis is an autoimmune disorder of the skin with relapsing episodes of inflammation and hyperkeratosis. Numerous approaches have been explored to treat this dreadful disease using different antipsoriatic drugs with different modes of action and routes of administration. But, till date there is no cure for psoriasis due to lack of an ideal carrier for safe and effective delivery of antipsoriatic drugs. Constant progression in the development of newer formulations utilizing colloidal drug delivery systems has led to effective treatment of psoriasis. Colloidal carriers include vesicular and particulate systems like liposome, transferosome, niosomes, ethosomes, solid lipid nanoparticles, microspheres, micelles, dendrimers etc. have gained unique position as drug cargoes. Present review is an attempt to contemplate on psoriasis in terms of pathogenesis, role of cytokines, major hindrances in psoriasis treatment, currently available treatment options pertaining to mode of action, pharmacokinetics, marketed products, side effects of individual antipsoriatic drugs and recent developments in the delivery of various antipsoriatic drugs through novel colloidal drug carriers., (Copyright © 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

Alpha (α)-tocopherol is the most biologically active and preferentially retained form of vitamin E in the human body and is known for its antioxidant and gene regulatory functions. Its increased intake is implicated in protection against diseases that involve an oxidative stress component. We have evaluated the chemopreventive potential of a diet supplemented with natural α-tocopherol-enriched transgenic (TR) Brassica juncea seeds. The modulation of phase I and phase II xenobiotic metabolism and of antioxidative enzymes was compared in the livers of mice fed on a control diet or on a diet supplemented with 2, 4, and 6 % (w/w) of wild-type (WT) or TR seeds. A dose-dependent increase in the specific activities of these enzymes was observed in those animals fed on diet supplemented with TR seeds. In comparison, an increase in the specific activities of antioxidative enzymes was substantial only at higher doses of WT seeds. Consequently, oxidative stress measured in terms of lipid peroxidation and lactate dehydrogenase activity was found to be lower in the case of mice fed with the supplemented diet. However, the chemopreventive potential of TR seeds was more pronounced than that of WT seeds. This study demonstrates the feasibility of fortifying diets with natural α-tocopherol for chemopreventive benefits by means of transgenic manipulation of a commonly used oilseed crop.

Wound is one of the oldest suffering associated with the mankind and its history is as old as humanity. Advances in the field of medical sciences created a pile of knowledge and paved the path for the development of a separate branch specifically devoted for wound healing. The understanding and treatment strategies for wound healing have gone through a great revolution. This article reviews all the aspects of wound healing including the pathway, types and recent advances made in the wound care management in particular moist wound dressings using natural polymers, skin grafts, debridement, growth factor and drug delivery.

Introduction: Proteins and peptides have been established to be the potential drug candidate for various human diseases. But, delivery of these therapeutic protein and peptides is still a challenge due to their several unfavorable properties. Nanotechnology is expanding as a promising tool for the efficient delivery of proteins and peptides. Among numerous nano-based carriers, ceramic nanoparticles have proven themselves as a unique carrier for protein and peptide delivery as they provide a more stable, bioavailable, readily manufacturable, and acceptable proteins and polypeptide formulation., Areas Covered: This article provides an overview of the various aspects of ceramic nanoparticles including their classification, methods of preparation, latest advances, and applications as protein and peptide delivery carriers., Expert Opinion: Ceramic nanocarriers seem to have potential for preserving structural integrity of proteins and peptides, thereby promoting a better therapeutic effect. This approach thus provides pharmaceutical scientists with a new hope for the delivery of proteins and peptides. Still, considerable study on ceramic nanocarrier is necessary with respect to pharmacokinetics, toxicology, and animal studies to confirm their efficiency as well as safety and to establish their clinical usefulness and scale-up to industrial level.

The essential oil from different parts of Zingiber roseum plants was extracted by hydrodistillation, and analyzed using enantio-GC, capillary-GC and GC-MS. Two chiral selectors, 6-tert-butyldimethylsilyl-2,3-diethyl-beta-cyclodextrin (TBDE-beta-CD), and 2,3,6-methyl-beta-cyclodextrin (PM-beta-CD) doped into 14% cyanopropylphenyl/86% dimethylpolysiloxane, and 35% diphenyl/65% dimethylpolysiloxane, respectively were compared in order to clarify the stereochemistry and enantioselectivity of terpenoids using chiral gas chromatography. The enantiomeric excess for (1R)-(+)-alpha-pinene, (1R)-(+)-beta-pinene, and (R)-(+)-limonene were characteristic for the rhizome. In TBDE-beta-cyclodextrin coated chiral columns, a significant increase in separation factor (alpha) for beta-pinene, limonene, linalool and alpha-terpineol enantiomers was observed when compared with methyl substituted beta-cyclodextrin. The increase in chain length of the alkyl substituents may be the possible cause for enantiomer separation in beta-cyclodextrin cavity. In addition, enantioreversal of alpha-pinene enantiomers in 6-tert-butyldimethylsilyl-2,3-diethyl-beta-cyclodextrin was noticed as a unique feature. The enantiomeric compositions of Z. roseum fruit and flower essential oils were similar, but, in contrast, the rhizome oil contained an entirely different composition. Therefore, these results aid in the authentication of the natural origin of Z. roseum essential oils.

Purpose: A prospective randomized case-control study conducted at a tertiary level eye care center to compare the outcomes of conjunctival autograft (CAG) with fibrin glue and CAG with patients' own blood acting as a bioadhesive in treating pterygium after surgical excision., Methods: Twenty eyes of 20 patients with pterygium were randomly divided into 2 groups: group I (10 eyes) underwent CAG with fibrin glue and group II (10 eyes) underwent CAG with the patients' own blood coagulum acting as a bioadhesive or fixative., Results: The time required for the surgery was compared. The patients were then closely followed up for a period of 12 months for anatomy, outcomes of graft, recurrence rate, graft displacement, retraction, inflammatory reaction, if any, graft failure, or any other complications. The duration of surgery was less in group I (mean duration, 14.74 ± 2.35 minutes) than group II (mean duration, 17.45 ± 2.89 minutes). We found that although the rate of recurrences was equal in grafts with the glue (10%) and the grafting with autologous blood (10%), the complications regarding graft displacement and graft retraction were more common in patients with grafting with autologous blood (10%) than in those with grafting with the glue. However, the difference was not found to be statistically significant (P = 0.3185). These complications were associated with larger grafts., Conclusions: This study suggests that autologous fibrin in blood is a useful alternative method for graft fixation in pterygium surgery. We found the newer procedure of autografing free of any untoward complication in small- to average-sized grafts.

Context: There is a lack of evidence about the efficacy and safety of anticholinergic drugs and about the optimal anticholinergic drug, if any, for the treatment of adult neurogenic detrusor overactivity (NDO)., Objective: Review the current evidence on the efficacy, safety, and tolerability of anticholinergic drugs in the treatment of adult NDO., Evidence Acquisition: A literature search was conducted from 1966 to May 2011. Meta-analysis of all published randomised controlled trials (RCTs) comparing anticholinergic drugs with placebo and comparing different types, doses, and routes of administration of anticholinergic drugs, in adults with NDO, was performed in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analysis statement. The primary outcome was patient-reported cure/improvement of overactive bladder symptoms. Secondary outcomes were quality of life (QoL) changes, bladder diary events, urodynamic outcomes, adverse events, and costs to health services., Evidence Synthesis: A total of 960 patients from 16 RCTs with mean follow-up of 3.8 wk were included. Anticholinergic drugs were associated with statistically significantly better patient-reported cure/improvement (risk ratio: 2.80; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.64 to 4.77), higher maximum cystometric capacity (weighted mean difference [WMD]: 49.49; 95% CI, 15.38 to 84.20), higher volume at first contraction (WMD: 49.92; 95% CI, 20.06 to 79.78), and lower maximum detrusor pressure (WMD: -38.30; 95% CI, -53.17 to -23.43) when compared with placebo. The dry-mouth rates were statistically significantly higher with anticholinergics, with no difference in withdrawals because of adverse events. There was no statistically significant difference in any of the outcomes between oxybutynin and other anticholinergics or among different doses and preparations of anticholinergic drugs. No study reported QoL changes or costs to health services., Conclusions: Compared with placebo, anticholinergic treatment in patients with NDO is associated with better patient-reported cure/improvement and significant reduction of maximum detrusor pressure; however, there is a higher incidence of adverse events. None of the anticholinergic drugs or different dosages assessed in this review was superior to another., (Copyright © 2012 European Association of Urology. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

A biocompatible moist system was developed for effective and complete wound healing. Optimized PLGA microspheres of gentamicin (GM) and serratiopeptidase (STP) were incorporated into PVA-gelatin slurry and casted into films to prepare multiphase hydrogel. The prepared system was characterized by in vitro and in vivo studies. Results revealed the uniform dispersion of microspheres in three-dimensional matrix of the hydrogel. The in vitro release data showed a typical biphasic release pattern. All parameters such as wound contraction, tensile strength, histopathological and biochemical parameters were observed significant (p < 0.05) in comparison to the control group. Results suggested an accelerated re-epithelialization with minimum disturbance of wound bed.

To compare the surgical outcomes of manual sutureless small-incision extracapsular cataract surgery (MSICS) with versus without a conjunctival flap for the treatment of cataracts. Prospective, randomized comparison of 220 consecutive patients with visually significant cataracts. Tertiary level eye clinic. 220 consecutive patients with cataracts. Patients assigned randomly to receive either SICS with a conjunctival flap or without one. Operative time, surgical complications, surgically induced astigmatism. Both surgical techniques achieved comparable surgical outcomes with comparable complication rates. The operative time was markedly less in group without flap (mean duration of 7.67 ± 1.45 min) than in group with flap (mean duration of 11.46 ± 1.69 min) (p value <0.001). In the group without a flap intraoperative pupillary miosis was significantly greater (p value 0.039) and on postoperative day 1, there were greater patients with a subconjunctival bleed involving greater than one quadrant of the bulbar conjunctiva (p value <0.0001). Also, post operative conjunctival retraction and consequent wound exposure was also significantly higher in this group (p value 0.026). However, the rate of other serious complications like any postop hyphaema, conjunctival bleb formation, iris prolapse, tunnel stability, shallow anterior chamber, post operative uveitis, malpositioned IOL, retinal detachment, cystoid macular edema, endophthalmitis were comparable in both. Both MSICS with and without a conjunctival flap achieved good surgical outcomes with comparable complication rates. But flapless MSICS is significantly faster. However it may be associated with higher intraoperative miosis and greater postoperative wound exposure.

Drug delivery through skin is the major confrontation due to its exceptional barrier properties. Despite major research and development efforts in transdermal systems, low Stratum corneum permeability limits the usefulness of topically administered drugs. This problem is more pronounced with bioactive drugs, which require special formulation technologies to overcome stability issues, their effective localization and safe release. This has led to an increased attention towards effective lipid based topical cutaneous systems. This review provides a brief overview of different lipid based systems, their associated advantages and disadvantages with special emphasis on lipid matrix systems like lipid microspheres or lipospheres and the potential of lipid matrix systems for transdermal delivery of bioactives.

Growth and in vitro asiaticoside accumulation in multiple shoot cultures of Centella asiatica (L.) Urban was studied as a function of nutrient manipulations in the culture media. Shoot cultures raised in liquid Murashige and Skoog medium supplemented with 2.5 mg/l kinetin attained a growth index (GI) of 6.06 along with the highest asiaticoside content of 3.8 mg/g dry weight on the 35th day of the culture cycle. The shoot growth and asiaticoside accumulation were found to be influenced by the relative proportions of NH(4)(+)-N:NO(3)(-)-N or Cu(2+) concentration in the medium. Asiaticoside content in shoots increased from 5.3 to 8.9 and 8.7 mg/g dry weight when total nitrogen concentration of 60 mM in the control medium was reduced to 50 and 40 mM with a corresponding change in NH(4) (+):NO(3)(-) ratio from 20:40 to 20:30 or 20:20, respectively. Total nitrogen level higher than 60 mM drastically reduced the asiaticoside concentration in these in vitro shoot cultures. Medium devoid of Cu(2+) significantly favored higher asiaticoside accumulation in the cultured tissue (7.05 mg/g dry weight) along with an improved biomass production (GI = 7.7) when compared with shoots reared on the control medium with 0.10 μM Cu(2+) (GI = 5.8; asiaticoside content = 4.4 mg/g dry weight). Carbohydrate enrichment of the medium by increasing the sucrose concentration from 3.0 to 5.0 or 7.0% was also beneficial for biomass and asiaticoside production with GI = 17.1 and 16.9 and asiaticoside content = 7.2 and 5.2 mg/g dry weight, respectively, in comparison to control cultures maintained on medium containing 3.0% sucrose. The procedure described here provides a viable production platform for generating clean and quality material from Centella with high bioactive content.

We have evaluated the cancer chemopreventive efficacy of the roots of Asparagus adscendens, which have been used in the Indian traditional medicine system for a long time for the treatment of various ailments. For the first time, the effect of its different doses in a test diet was examined on 7,12-dimethylbenz(a)anthracene-induced skin and benzo(a)pyrene-induced forestomach papillomagenesis in mice. The effect of these test diets was also examined on drug-metabolizing phase I and phase II enzymes, antioxidant enzymes, reduced glutathione content, and peroxidative damage in mice. Results exhibited a significant reduction in the skin and the forestomach tumor incidence with respect to all the three (2, 4, and 6%, w/w) doses as compared with control. Among all the doses tested, 4% of test diet was most effective in protecting the animals against papillomagenesis. Further, the roots of A. adscendens inhibited phase I, and activated phase II system and antioxidant enzymes in the liver especially with 4% of test diet. The content of reduced glutathione was also significantly elevated whereas the peroxidative damage along with lactate dehydrogenase activity were reduced with all the three doses of the test diet. Together, these results suggest the cancer chemopreventive potential of A. adscendens, which could be mediated through drug-metabolizing phase I and phase II enzymes as well as free radical scavenging antioxidant enzymes.

Two new lignans, 3-(3,4-dimethoxy-benzyl)-4-(7-methoxy-benzo[1,3]dioxol-5-yl-methyl)-dihydrofuran-2-one (1) and 4-(3,4-dimethoxy-phenyl)-1-(7-methoxy-benzo[1,3]dioxol-5-yl)-2,3-bis-methoxymethyl-butan-1-ol (2), were isolated from the leaves of Phyllanthus amarus and their structures were established by spectral analysis. Additionally, eight known lignans were also isolated and characterized.

A sensitive, selective, and robust high-performance TLC (HPTLC) method using chiral TLC plates for qualitative and quantitative analysis of phyllanthin (A), hypophyllanthin (B), niranthin (C), and nirtetralin (D), the active lignans of Phyllanthus species, was developed and validated. The effectiveness and role of various stationary phases viz TLC silica gel 60F(254), HPTLC silica gel 60F(254), and chiral TLC plates in the quantitation were evaluated. A precoated chiral TLC plate was found suitable for the simultaneous analysis of four pharmacologically active lignans. For achieving good separation, the optimized mobile phase of n-hexane/acetone/1,4-dioxane (9:1:0.5 by volume) was used (R(f) = 0.30, 0.36, 0.41, and 0.48 for compounds A, B, C, and D, respectively). A densitometric determination of the above compounds was carried out in reflection/absorption mode at 620 nm. Optimized chromatographic conditions provide well-separated compact bands for the tested lignans. The calibration curves were found linear in the concentration range of 100-500 ng/band. Recoveries of A-D were 99.98, 100.51, 99.22, and 98.74%, respectively. The method was validated according to ICH guidelines. The method reported here is reproducible and applied for the quantitative analysis of the above lignans in the leaves of four Phyllanthus species, i. e., P. amarus, P. maderaspatensis, P. urinaria, and P. virgatus.

Knowledge driven technological developments, the growth and speed of application oriented products in the field of web based services, medical technology and information science, the use of sensor networks for remote patient monitoring is currently playing a major role in quality healthcare delivery to the masses. However, further research need to be done for more effective diagnosis and treatment of diseases remotely. An improved web based, knowledge driven, patient data monitoring and diagnosis system remotely, is developed to acquire, store and process the data using specially developed GUI (Graphical User Interface) on lab-view platform. The GUI displays, communicates and processes vital biomedical parameters such as Heart rate (HR), beat to beat ratio (R-R), QRS and QT intervals etc after acquiring ECG, pulse rate, body temperature etc. from the patient's body sensors. The system detects any emergency condition automatically, if the patient develops any abnormality in his heart rate or irregularity in rhythm heart line and establishes direct connectivity between specialists and patient. The provision to store the online data on remote PC in auto mode is given. The storage of data files on demand on local and remote PC and online data communication between the two is done through shared variables. A case study to evaluate the performance and to verify the experimental implementation is conducted on two patients with varying heart rate (HR) and varying rhythm and the results were found exactly to be in accordance with the expected outcome.