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Tetracera scandens is a southeast Asian shrub that belongs to family Dilleniaceae. Over the years, different parts of the plant have been used for the management of different diseases, including diabetes mellitus, hypertension, rheumatism, diarrhea, hepatitis, and inflammation. This variety of medical indications has attracted the attention of many researchers to this plant species, leading to the conduction of many research studies on different parts of the plant. These studies have confirmed some of the aforementioned activities of the plant, whereas other indications remain to be ascertained. This article is an attempt to summarize the studies conducted on T. scandens and to explore the isolated phytochemicals.

Tetracera scandens is a medicinal shrub that belongs to Dilleniaceae. The leaves of the plant have been traditionally used in the treatment of diabetes mellitus in Malaysia. The conventional quality control analysis of medicinal plants that relies on the quantification of few major metabolites is considered time-consuming since it requires extensive sample preparation and neglects the possible impacts that the minor metabolites could have on the activity. This study was aimed to investigate the α-glucosidase inhibitory (AGI) potential of different hydromethanolic extracts of T. scandens leaves and to establish a predictive multivariate model that could be used for the quality evaluation of T. scandens leaf based on the Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectra of its extracts. Different solvent ratios (0%, 20%, 40%, 60%, 80% and 100% methanol in water) were used to prepare a total of 36 extracts. The AGI potential and the FT-IR fingerprint spectrum were acquired for each extract. A four components orthogonal partial least squares (OPLS) model (1 + 3 + 0) with R2Y of 0.951 and Q2Y of 0.916 was established to describe the correlation between the fingerprint FT-IR spectra of different T. scandens extracts and their corresponding AGI activities. The carbon-halide, carbon–oxygen single bonds, as well as the hydroxyl and carbonyl groups were identified to be positively correlated with the AGI activity. To sum up, an OPLS model was successfully developed as a rapid quality evaluation method to predict the AGI activity of T. scandens.

Fruit of salak (Salaaca zalacca) is traditionally used and commercialized as an antidiabetic agent. However, scientific evidence to prove this folk claim is quite lacking. Therefore, this research was aimed to evaluate the α-glucosidase inhibition activity of S. zalacca fruit and identify the bioactive compounds. The fruits were extracted by different ratios of ethanol and water (0, 20, 40, 60, 80, 100%, v/v) to get E0 (100% water), E20 (20% ethanol), E40 (40% ethanol), E60 (60% ethanol), E80 (80% ethanol), and E100 (100% ethanol) extracts. The extracts obtained were subjected to the α-glucosidase inhibitory assay. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry- (GC-MS-) based metabolomics approach was used in profiling the bioactive metabolites present in the extracts. Orthogonal partial least square (OPLS) was used to correlate GC-MS data and α-glucosidase assay results to identify the possible chemical markers. All active compounds identified were subjected to molecular docking. The extracts from the S. zalacca fruit showed potent inhibition activity against α-glucosidase. The IC50 values from the α-glucosidase inhibitory assay ranged between 16 and 275 µg/ml. Overall, E60 displayed significantly higher α-glucosidase inhibition activity, while E0 showed the lowest α-glucosidase inhibition activity. Major compounds detected in S. zalacca fruits were sugars, fatty acids, and sterols, including myo-inositol, palmitic acid, stearic acid, and β-sitosterol. Moreover, the results obtained from molecular docking indicated that palmitic acid and β-sitosterol were close to the active side of the enzyme. Some of the residues that interacted include HID295, ASN259, LEU313, LYS125, PHE159, VAL216, PHE178, TYR72, TYR158, HIE315, ARG315, and PHE303. The bioassay result strongly suggests that E60 extract from S. zalacca fruits has potential α-glucosidase inhibitory activity. The hydrophobic compounds, including palmitic acid and β-sitosterol, were found to induce the α-glucosidase inhibition activity.

Different extraction processes were employed to extract bioactive metabolites from Salacca zalacca flesh by a range of aqueous and organic solvents. The highest extraction yield was obtained by 50%...

Background and Objectives: Various devices have been used to maintain oral hygiene. These include toothbrush and toothpaste, mouthwash, dental floss, miswak, and toothpick. This study attempts to investigate the use of various oral cleaning devices and their perceived benefits among Malaysians. Methods: A quantitative cross-sectional study conducted in two different cities of Malaysia. A convenience sampling approach was adopted. A total of 787 participants agreed to participate in the current research. A validated questionnaire translated into national language was used for data collection. Statistical Analysis Used: Data analysis was performed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 20. Results: About 302 respondents were in the age range of 18 – 25 years old (38.4%). There were marginally more females (55.7%) than males (44.3%). Although 99.9% of the participants used a toothbrush, a significant majority (n = 590, 75%) used more than a single device to maintain their oral hygiene. Only 311 respondents knew that toothpicks were inappropriate to use to remove food between teeth and gums, while a majority (n = 592, 75.2%) did not realize that some mouthwashes can stain the teeth. Less than half (42.1%) knew that improper use of miswak might harm the teeth. Conclusions: Although their oral hygiene behaviors are relatively at a higher level, their perceived oral health benefits did not compare well.

Saffron, Crocus sativus (Iridaceae), is a perennial herb, which earned its popularity as both medicine and spice. It is an inhabitant of different mountainous regions of Asia Minor to Greece, Western Asia, Egypt, and India. The benefits of saffron as an antidepressant are well-documented. Almost 150 volatile and nonvolatile compounds are obtained from the chemical analysis of this plant. Fewer than 50 constituents elucidated and identified so far showed phytochemical characteristics. The major bioactive compounds identified are safranal, crocin, and picrocrocin, which are responsible for its aroma as well as its bitter taste. This review is an attempt to encompass the methods of analysis and pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic properties of saffron followed by its efficacious and safe potential.

Salacca zalacca (Gaertn.) Voss (family Arecaceae) is the snake fruit commonly known in Malay language as salak in Malaysia. This exotic fruit has diverse and potential pharmacological properties due to its high antioxidant content. It is often consumed due to its sweet taste. The abundant natural sugar and fibre along with minerals and vitamin makes it a nutritious fruit. Phytochemical investigation on this fruit has revealed the presence of flavonoids, phenolics, glycosides as well as some volatile and aromatic compounds, including gallic acid, quercetin, chlorogenic acid, epicatechin, proanthocyanidins, lycopene and β-carotene. Pharmacological studies on the fruit flesh and peel have shown some tremendous antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anticancer and antidiabetic potential. This review provides the botanical information of Salacca zalacca as well as its scientific investigations involving the distinct pharmacological and phytochemical benefits. This could help in highlighting the lacking data and research gaps on this plant.

Salak (Salacca zalacca) is well-known as snake fruit and it is immensely studied for its antioxidative and antidiabetic active metabolites throughout the southeast Asian countries. However, there are many remaining unidentified metabolites due to very low abundance and natural variation, which need to be further explored. Nowadays mass spectrometry (MS/MS) facilitates the tentative identification of unknown compounds in the crude herbal extracts. This study described the metabolite profiling of hydroalcoholic extracts of S. zalacca analysed by LC-QTOF-MS/MS. The 60% ethanolic extract exhibited the highest α-glucosidase inhibition and ferric reducing antioxidant power activities with IC50 of 15.94 µg/mL and 78.13 μg AAE/g, respectively. Multivariate data analysis (MVDA) by an orthogonal partial least-squares (OPLS) algorithm was conducted to correlate the α-glucosidase inhibition activity with the LC- QTOF-MS data. A total of 4 compounds were reported for first time in this fruit and identified based on the molecular mass and fragment ions. LC-QTOF-MS analysis indicated the presence of carexane I, 5-phenoxytetrazol-1-yl)-2,3,5,6-hexahydrofurofuran-3-ethylurea, 3-acetylphenoxy)-N-[(2)-1-amino-4-methyl-1-oxopentan-2-yl]-4,5-dihydroxycyclohexene-1-carboxamide and Ethyl 4-[5-methyl-2-oxo-1′,2′,5′,6′,7′,7′a-hexahydro-1H-spiro[indole-3,3′-pyrrolizine]-2′-ylamido] benzoate. Molecular docking of those compounds with the α–glucosidase enzyme was performed to confirm their antidiabetic potential. These bioactive compounds could be suggested as α-glucosidase inhibitors and functional food additives.

This study aimed to explore the use and perceived benefits of mouthwash among Malaysian adults. Method: This is a cross-sectional study which was conducted in public places around the states of Selangor and Penang, Malaysia. It is a questionnaire-based study which was conducted as face-to-face interview. A convenience sample of 792 mouthwash users was recruited in 2013 in an ethically approved study (International Medical University). The study instrument was formulated on the basis of literature search and subjected to 20 experts for validation purpose. A pilot study was conducted to compute Cronbach Alpha (0.78). Data was entered into PASW version 20. Descriptive and inferential statistics were applied. Results: A response rate of 99% was achieved. More than two third of the respondents are female, suggesting women are more likely to use mouthwash (n ¼486; 61.8 %). The major reason to use mouthwash were to mask halitosis (n¼287; 36.5%) and to prevent oral diseases (n¼243; 30.9%). Majority knew that fluoride helps in reducing plaque (n¼599; 76.1%) and tooth decay (n¼631; 80.2%). Respondents were not clear that only tooth brushing alone is insufficient to prevent gum disease (n¼553; 70.3%). More than two thirds perceived that mouthwash is useful in reducing plaque (n¼567; 72.0%) as well as periodontal disease (n¼580; 73.7%). Respondents perceived that mouthwash is more effective in eliminating halitosis (n¼714; 90.7%) and preventing caries (n¼630; 80.1%). The frequency of mouthwash use was statistically significant with age, gender, race and monthly income (p¼0.018. 0.091, 0.010, 0.030) . Conclusion: This study indicates that Malaysian adults have good knowledge on the use and perceived benefits of mouthwash. A nationwide study is advocated to gather more information from general population, targeting the use of mouthwash in a large scale to minimize oral health problems.

In recent years, there is emerging evidence that isoflavonoids, either dietary or obtained from traditional medicinal plants, could play an important role as a supplementary drug in the management of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) due to their reported pronounced biological effects in relation to multiple metabolic factors associated with diabetes. Hence, in this regard, we have comprehensively reviewed the potential biological effects of isoflavonoids, particularly biochanin A, genistein, daidzein, glycitein, and formononetin on metabolic disorders and long-term complications induced by T2DM in order to understand whether they can be future candidates as a safe antidiabetic agent. Based on in-depth in vitro and in vivo studies evaluations, isoflavonoids have been found to activate gene expression through the stimulation of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs) (α, γ), modulate carbohydrate metabolism, regulate hyperglycemia, induce dyslipidemia, lessen insulin resistance, and modify adipocyte differentiation and tissue metabolism. Moreover, these natural compounds have also been found to attenuate oxidative stress through the oxidative signaling process and inflammatory mechanism. Hence, isoflavonoids have been envisioned to be able to prevent and slow down the progression of long-term diabetes complications including cardiovascular disease, nephropathy, neuropathy, and retinopathy. Further thoroughgoing investigations in human clinical studies are strongly recommended to obtain the optimum and specific dose and regimen required for supplementation with isoflavonoids and derivatives in diabetic patients.

Fruit of salak (Salacca zalacca) is traditionally used and commercialized as an antidiabetic agent. However, the scientific evidence to prove this traditional use is lacking. This research was aimed to evaluate the metabolic changes of obese-diabetic (OBDC) rats treated with S. zalacca fruit extract using proton-nuclear magnetic resonance (1H NMR)-based metabolomics approach. This research presents the first report on the in vitro antidiabetic effect of S. zalacca fruits extract using this approach. The obtained results indicated that the administration of 400 mg/kg bw of 60% ethanolic S. zalacca extract for 6 weeks significantly decreased the blood glucose level and normalized the blood lipid profile of the OBDC rats. The potential biomarkers in urine were 2-oxoglutarate, alanine, leucine, succinate 3-hydroxybutyrate, taurine, betaine, allantoin, acetate, dimethylamine, creatine, creatinine, glucose, phenyl-acetylglycine, and hippurate. Based on the data obtained, the 60% ethanolic extract could not fully improved the metabolic complications of diabetic rats. The extract of S. zalacca fruit was able to decrease the ketones bodies as 3-hydroxybutyrate and acetoacetate. It also improved energy metabolism, involving glucose, acetate, lactate, 2-hydroxybutyrate, 2-oxoglutarate, citrate, and succinate. Moreover, it decreased metabolites from gut microflora, including choline. This extract had significant effect on amino acid metabolism, metabolites from gut microflora, bile acid metabolism and creatine. The result can further support the traditional claims of S. zalacca fruits in management of diabetes. This finding might be valuable in understanding the molecular mechanism and pharmacological properties of this medicinal plant for managing diabetes mellitus.

Different extraction processes were employed to extract bioactive metabolites from

Introduction: Smoking causes substantial preventable morbidity, mortality and financial burdens. It is the main risk factor for many diseases and a significant cause of death. Smoking prevalence is high internationally and in Malaysia, especially among males. Smoking cessation is essential to reduce tobacco-related morbidity and mortality. Aim: To evaluate knowledge, attitude towards and practice of smoking among pharmacy students in the International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM). Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted using a validated structured self-administered questionnaire among a sample of IIUM pharmacy students (n=251) during November 2012. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to summarise data and to examine the relationship between variables. Results: A total of 251 IIUM pharmacy students have participated in the survey. The median age of the participants was 21-23 years; 23.9% of them were males and 76.1% were females. The percentage of current smokers and ex-smokers was 0.4%, 0.8%, respectively. About 43% of the respondents had a good knowledge (score >16), more than half of them had a positive attitude (score >17), and about 38.4% had a good practice (score >11). Conclusion: Smoking prevalence among pharmacy students in IIUM is very low. However, conducting training and educational programs to improve knowledge, attitudes and practice of pharmacy students is highly recommended to assist their contribution to smoking cessation interventions in the future.

Salak fruit (Salacca zalacca), commonly known as snake fruit, is used indigenously as food and for medicinal applications in Southeast Asia. This study was conducted to evaluate the &alpha, glucosidase inhibitory activity of salak fruit extracts in correlation to its Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) fingerprint, utilizing orthogonal partial least square. This calibration model was applied to develop a rapid analytical method tool for quality control of this fruit. A total of 36 extracts prepared with different solvent ratios of ethanol&ndash, water (100, 80, 60, 40.20, 0% v/v) and their &alpha, glucosidase inhibitory activities determined. The FT-IR spectra of ethanol&ndash, water extracts measured in the region of 400 and 4000 cm&minus, 1 at a resolution of 4 cm&minus, 1. Multivariate analysis with a combination of orthogonal partial least-squares (OPLS) algorithm was used to correlate the bioactivity of the samples with the FT-IR spectral data. The OPLS biplot model identified several functional groups (C&ndash, H, C=O, C&ndash, N, N&ndash, H, C&ndash, O, and C=C) which actively induced &alpha, glucosidase inhibitory activity.

Aims and Objectives: The present study was aimed to evaluate the antiinflammatory effect of different seed extracts of Trachyspermum ammi at different doses. Materials and Methods: Three different seed extracts were prepared through Soxhlet extraction method by using n-hexane, chloroform and methanol solvents. Acute toxicity test performed at dose of 400 mg/ kg, 800 mg/kg, 1600 mg/kg and 3200 mg/kg. Two different strengths of seed extracts (minimum therapeutic dose of 500 mg/kg and maximum therapeutic dose of 1000 mg/kg) were given to Wistar rats to measure anti-inflammatory activity through Carrageenan induced paw edema method. Results: The standard drug diclofenac sodium was (percentage of inhibition of paw edema 29.68%) more effective as compared to test drug. When efficacy of all extracts compared with each other, n-hexane extract showed more anti-inflammatory effect (percentage inhibition of paw edema 22.21%) at maximum effective dose 1000 mg/kg. Conclusion: Seed extracts of T. ammi showed anti-inflammatory activity by potentiating the neurotransmission of GABA and also by repression glutamate receptor.

Objective: This study is aimed to explore the understanding of pharmacists about their perceived role in the health care system of Pakistan. Methods: A 15-item questionnaire, which was devised on the basis of literature survey, was self-administered to a convenience sample of practicing pharmacists in Karachi, Pakistan. The questionnaire constituted components regarding their desired practice setting, expectations concerning their professional function and the opinion on the future of profession. Results: The demographic characteristics highlighted male (47.1%) and female (52.9%) to be in equal proportion with more than 65% of the respondents ≤30 years of age ( n = 67; 65.7%). Majority of the respondents hold bachelor degree in pharmacy ( n = 82; 80.4%). Majority of the respondents had n = 70; 68.6%). More than 75% of the respondents worked in hospital settings ( n = 80; 78.4%). Majority of the respondents ( n = 78; 76.5%) expressed their dissatisfaction towards their role as a pharmacist. Nearly half of the respondents ( n = 47; 46.1%) visualized themselves as mere dispensers, while around one-fourth of the respondents ( n = 24; 23.5%) perceived themselves as drug information pharmacist. In the context to their education and training as pharmacists, the opinion seems to be divided as half of the respondents expressed satisfaction ( n = 46; 45.1%), while the other half showed dissatisfaction ( n = 49; 48.0%). More than 90% of the respondents agreed to learn new skills a key to achieve career satisfaction. Conclusion: The pharmacists expressed dissatisfaction about their perceived status in the healthcare system of Pakistan. In order to intensify the feel of professionalism, reconceptualization of education and training system is advocated.

Background: This study is aimed to explore the types of CAM and reasons of using CAM among elderly Malaysians. Method: This cross-sectional study was conducted on a sample of 256 conveniently selected elderly Malaysians who were residing in the states of Selangor and Kuala Lumpur. A pre-validated interviewadministered questionnaire was used to gather information. Data was entered into PASW version 18 and analyzed. Results: A total of 256 questionnaires were included in the study. A response rate of 64% was achieved. Out of 256 respondents, 92 (35.9%) were male while 164 (64.1%) were female. More than half of the respondents (n = 141; 55.1%) agreed that CAM is more effective than allopathic medicine. Chinese respondents showed strong belief in the effectiveness of CAM. In terms of safety of CAM, close to three quarters of respondents (n = 178; 69.5%) believed that CAM is safer than allopathic medicine. A large majority of respondents agreed that CAM has less side effects compared to allopathic medicine (n = 201; 78.5%) and also agreed that CAM is good to maintain overall health and wellbeing (n = 212; 82.8%). A majority of the respondents expressed that they use CAM because allopathic medicine is less effective (n = 113; 44.1%). Conclusion: The current study reflects the reasons of using CAM among lay public from different ethnicities. There are no reports of adverse effects related to CAM use. Future approaches should be intended for awareness campaigns for consumers, highlighting safety profile of CAM and as well as forbidding their use without the consultation of healthcare professional. Key words: Complementary and alternative medicine, Elderly, Belief, Attitude, Malaysian.

This study aimed to investigate the antitumorigenicity of xanthones-rich extract from Garcinia mangostana L., Clusiaceae, fruit rinds which was obtained by a simple recrystallization of 75% ethanolic extract. α-Mangostin content of the extract was determined qualitatively by TLC and quantitatively by HPLC, and total xanthones content was quantified by UV spectrophotometry. The extract was evaluated for cytotoxicity, apoptosis and antitumorigenicity on HCT 116 human colorectal carcinoma cells. α-Mangostin was found to be the main constituent of the extract which was 71.2±0.1%, and the total xanthones content was 95±4.8% (wt/wt). The extract showed potent dose dependent cytotoxicity with IC50 value 9.2 μg/mL. Apoptosis studies revealed activation of caspases 3 and 7, DNA fragmentation, chromatin condensation and loss of mitochondrial membrane potential. Studies on cell migration and colony formation indicate reduced cell migration ability and clonogenicity of treated HCT 116 cells at sub-inhibitory concentrations. Taken together, the cytotoxic effect of the xanthones extract is mediated through the mitochondrial pathway of apoptosis. The reduced cell migration and clonogenicity of HCT 116 cells might prevent both primary and metastatic tumor growth in vivo which will be the topic of our future work using the metastatic orthotopic colon cancer model.

Syzygium aromaticum (L.) Merr. & L.M. Perry, Myrtaceae, is an evergreen tree with anticarcinogenic, antimutagenic, aphrodisiac, antimicrobial, antioxidant and antiinflammatory properties. This study aims to investigate the anti-breast cancer effect of extracts from leaves, stem and bark of S. aromaticum and to develop a method for preparation of betulinic acid fraction from the leaves. Betulinic acid, ursolic acid and oleanolic acid contents of the extracts were determined by HPLC. A betulinic acid fraction was prepared by simple crystallization of leaves extract and was characterized by HPLC and mass analysis. Anti-breast cancer effects were studied on MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 cells. The extracts were found to contain high levels of betulinic acid particularly the leaves extract which contained 17% wt/wt. The betulinic acid fraction contains 75% betulinic acid. Cytotoxicity testing reveals high and selective cytotoxic effect of the stem extract on MCF-7 cells with IC50 33±1.6 µg/mL. Cytotoxic effect of the stem extract was due to activation of apoptotic machinery of cell death. Combination studies of stem extract with tamoxifen reveals antagonistic effect at high concentration of tamoxifen and enhancement effect at low concentration. The selective cytotoxicity of the stem extract of S. aromaticum on MCF-7 is not due to betulinic acid but due to other constituents yet to be discovered.

Objective: The aim and objective of this study was to find the immunostimulant and immunomodulatory effect of T. ammi seed extracts. Methods: Seeds of T. ammi were extracted using three different solvents n-hexane, chloroform, and methanol by using soxhlet apparatus. To assess the immunomodulatory effect, delayed-type hypersensitivity (DTH) assay method was used and by the DTH assay, the effect of T. ammi on the skin thickness of rats was estimated. To find the exact dose for administration, acute toxicity test was performed using crude methanolic extract at a dose of 400, 800, 1600, and 3200mg/kg. After acute toxicity test, 500mg/kg dose was determined as safe for therapeutic effect and immunomodulatory effect was evaluated at this dose. Dose of 500mg/kg was administered to Wistar rats daily for 14 days and skin thickness of rats was measured at 24, 48, and 72h. Results: Results were obtained from six groups of rats, which were positive control group, negative control group, and the groups receiving the test drugs. Standard drug was the combination of sodium selenite, vitamin E, and sodium chloride and it showed more positive results as compared to that of test drug. Furthermore, among the three extracts, methanol extract showed more effectiveness on skin thickness. Conclusion: There was a meaningful difference was observed between the skin thickness of rats which shows that T. ammi have good immunomodulatory as well as immunostimulant activity.

Aim of the study The present study was aimed to investigate the pharmacological basis for the use of Loranthus ferrugineus in hypertension. Materials and methods Loranthus ferrugineus methanol extract (LFME) was obtained using Soxhelt extractor and then successively fractionated using chloroform, ethyl acetate and n-butanol. The n-butanol fraction of LFME (NBF-LFME) was studied using isolated rat thoracic aorta. Results NBF-LFME (1.0 × 10−5 to 3.0 mg/ml) was found to be the most potent to concentration-dependently relax the endothelium-intact phenyephrine (PE, 1 μM)- and high K+ (80 mM)-precontracted rat aortic rings. Removal of the endothelium completely abolished the vascular relaxing properties of NBF-LFME. Pretreatment with atropine (1 μM), l -NAME (10 μM), indomethacin (10 μM) and methylene blue (10 μM) significantly blocked NBF-LFME-mediated relaxation. Endothelium-dependent and -independent relaxations induced by acetylcholine (ACh) and sodium nitroprusside (SNP), respectively, were significantly enhanced in aortic rings pretreated with NBF-LFME when compared to those observed in control aortic rings. On the contrary, glibenclamide (10 μM), propranolol (1 μM) and prazosin (0.01 μM) did not alter NBF-LFME-induced relaxation. Conclusions The results suggest that NBF-LFME induced vascular relaxation by stimulating muscarinic receptors, activating the endothelium-derived nitric oxide-cGMP-relaxant pathway, promoting prostacyclin release and/or possibly through its ability to lengthen the released nitric oxide half-life. The present data further supports previous in vivo findings and explain the traditional use of Loranthus ferrugineus as an anti-hypertensive agent.

Background: Salacca zalacca or better known as salak fruit is widely distributed in tropical and subtropical countries, and it is traditionally used to treat diabetes. This study was aimed to investigate the salak peel extracts for their biological and chemical activities. Also, the chemical profile of the most promising extract was analysed on gas chromatography- mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Materials and Methods: The peel extracts were prepared by maceration process at room temperature with different ratio of ethanol/water. All the extracts were determined for their α-glucosidase inhibitory activity using α-glucosidase enzyme. The antioxidant activities of the extracts were determined through their Ferric reducing antioxidant power assay (FRAP) and 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH). The chemical constituents of salak peel extracts were analysed using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC MS). Results: Phytochemical screening showed the presence of phenolic and flavonoid contents in all the extracts. About 100% ethanol extract shows the highest phenolic content (116.70 ± 0.764 μg/mL) while 60% ethanol extract has the lowest content 18.65 ± 1.155 μg/ml using gallic acid as a reference. 100% ethanol extract was observed to exhibit highest radical scavenging, ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP), and α-glucosidase inhibitory activities (IC50: 49.45 ± 3.87 μg/mL, 144.81 ± 3.72 μg AAE/g, IC50: 11.62 ± 0.67b μg/mL), respectively. Water extracts had the lowest FRAP, radical scavenging activity as well as α-glucosidase activity. The phytochemical investigation on GC-MS showed the presence of active compounds in salak fruit peel extracts. Conclusion: Salak fruit peels showed the highest antioxidant as well as α-glucosidase inhibitory activities. Phytochemical analysis on GC-MS confirms the presence of gallic acid, linoelaidic acid, palmitic acid, α-tocopherol, and steric acid which may contribute to α-glucosidase inhibitory activity. Abbreviations Used: GC-MS: Gas Chromatography–Mass Spectroscopy; FRAP: Ferric reducing antioxidant power assay; TPTZ: 2,4,6-tris (2-pyridyl)-s-triazine; DPPH: 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhdroxyl; MSTFA: N-methyl-N-(trimethylsilyl)-trifluoroacetamide; TPC: Total phenolic content; DMSO: Dimethyl sulfoxide; ANOVA: Analysis of variance.

This detailed review analyzed the previously published studies related to the prevalence of psychotropic substances use, associated factors, and the misuse of the psychotropics among students. A comprehensive literature search covering six databases was performed. References from published articles and reports were extracted. This helped in identifying the available information on the use of psychotropic drugs. A total of 16 articles were included in this review. There is an upsurge of using psychotropics with the preceding years. More students are exposed to the risk of using psychotropic substances due to the multiple factors like stress, increased academic workload, etc. The misuse is found to be common with prescribed psychotropic substances. Students need to be aware of the bad outcomes of using psychotropic substances. Participation of every stakeholder to curb this menace needs to be emphasized. More extensive studies are required to know about the increasing prevalence, factors, and misuse of psychotropics.

Introduction: This study is aimed to investigate the understanding of antibiotic use and antibiotic resistance and its correlate factors among final-year medical and pharmacy students at International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM). Methodology: This was a cross-sectional study. The study instrument was developed by extensive literature search and was subjected to face validity and content validity to medical and pharmacy academics. A pilot study was conducted to ascertain the reliability coefficient. Data was entered to SPSS version 17 and descriptive and inferential statistics were applied. Results: A total of 123 questionnaires were included in the study. Out of 123 respondents, 58.5% (n = 72) were final-year medical students, while 41.5% (n = 51) were final-year pharmacy students. The majority of the respondents showed adequate knowledge regarding the course contents related to antibiotics (n = 116; 94.3%). Almost all the respondents correctly reported the difference between bactericidal and bacteriostatic antibiotics. Only 15.4% (n = 19) and 27.6% (n = 34) of students were able to recognize Streptococcus pyogenes as non-pencillin resistant bacterium and Enterococcus as vancomycin-resistant bacterium, respectively. Conclusions: The students showed good understanding regarding antibiotic resistance. In comparison to medical students, pharmacy students showed better understanding and more adequate knowledge, as the mean value for each domain was slightly higher for pharmacy students. Extensively improving the curriculum and educating healthcare professionals, especially physicians and pharmacists, right from the time of their educational training can inculcate a moral responsibility toward the judicious use of antibiotics, which can serve to eradicate antibiotic resistance.

Diabetes is a common metabolic disease indicated by unusually high plasma glucose level that can lead to major complications such as diabetic neuropathy, retinopathy, and cardiovascular diseases. One of the effective therapeutic managements of the disease is to reduce postprandial hyperglycemia through inhibition of α-glucosidase, a carbohydrate-hydrolyzing enzyme to retard overall glucose absorption. In recent years, a plenty of research works have been conducted looking for novel and effective α-glucosidase inhibitors (AGIs) from natural sources as alternatives for the synthetic AGI due to their unpleasant side effects. Plants and herbs are rich with secondary metabolites that have massive pharmaceutical potential. Besides, studies showed that phytochemicals such as flavonoids, alkaloids, terpenoids, anthocyanins, glycosides, and phenolic compounds possess significant inhibitory activity against α-glucosidase enzyme. Malaysia is a tropical country that is rich with medicinal herbs. In this review, we focus on eight Malaysian plants with the potential as AGI to develop a potential functional food or lead compounds against diabetes.

Hypertension is a pathological condition in which the blood pressure is higher than under normal physiological conditions, i.e., 140/90 mmHg or higher. Blood pressure is measured as the force exerted by the blood pumped by the heart against the walls of arteries (aorta) and distributed throughout the body. Use of complementary and alternative medicine as a cure for hypertension is a common phenomenon because of the high risk of cardiovascular complications and kidney diseases caused by conventional Western medicine. It is reported that high blood pressure causes ~49% of myocardial infarction and 62% of strokes. Effective treatment of hypertension is restricted by adverse effects and cost of the medication. Moxibustion is the application of heat by burning a small bundle of tightly bound moxa, to targeted acupoint, and sometimes it is used along with acupuncture. Encouraging results have been reported on randomized trials indicating the efficacy of moxibustion. But more controlled clinical trials are required to further establish the potential efficacy of moxibustion approach in hypertension.

Garcinia mangostana fruit rinds contain high concentration of xanthones such as α-, and γ-mangostin. The α-mangostin-rich extracts have been used widely in nutritional supplements, herbal cosmetics and pharmaceutical preparations. This study aims to develop a reverse phase HPLC method for the quantification of α-, β- and γ-mangostin in G. mangostana fruit rind extracts. The method was validated at 244, 254, 316 and 320 nm. Selectivity was determined by comparing the retention time and the UV-Vis spectra of α-, β- and γ-mangostin in G. mangostana extracts with those of the reference compounds. Linearity was in the range 0.2 to 200 µg/ml at R2 > 0.9999. The intraday and interday precision was determined as a relative standard deviation, and was found to be (0.4±0.4) and (0.3 ± 0.3)%, respectively. The percentage recovery was in the range (96.3 ± 2.5) to (100.5 ± 3.4)%. The limits of detection and quantification were in the range 0.06 to 0.12 and 0.14 to 0.37 µg/ml, respectively. The reported method was applied for the determination of α-, β- and γ-mangostin concentration in 7 extracts of G. mangostana fruit rinds, and it could be considered as an important analytical tool for quality control, stability studies, pharmacokinetics, and standardization purposes. Key words: Alpha-, beta-, and gamma-mangostin, Garcinia mangostana, mangosteen.

In the present study, L. ferrugineus methanol extract (LFME) was evaluated for its blood pressure lowering effect in anesthetized normotensive Sprague Dawley (SD) rats and its spasmogenic effect in isolated guinea pig ileum. The possible mechanism(s) of action were also investigated. LFME was obtained by Soxhlet extraction. The rats were fasted overnight and anesthetized with sodium pentobarbitone (60 mg/kg i.p.). LFME was administered in i.v. boluses in the concentrations of 25, 50, 100 and 200 mg/kg respectively, with concomitant monitoring of mean arterial pressure (MAP). It was found that LFME dose-dependently reduced MAP. An i.v. bolus injection of atropine significantly decreased the blood pressure lowering effect of LFME. Similarly, L-NAME (Nω-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester) significantly lowered both the MAP and the action duration. Conversely, no significant change in MAP was seen following i.v. injections of neostigmine, hexamethonium, prazosin and propranolol. LFME also produced a dose-dependent contractile effect in guinea pig ileum. This contraction was significantly reduced in atropine pre-incubated tissue segments, yet it was significantly enhanced in the presence of neostigmine. No appreciable change in the ability of LFME to contract guinea pig ileum was seen in the presence of hexamethonium. Accordingly, it can be postulated that LFME possesses a marked hypotensive effect that can be attributed to stimulation of muscarinic receptors and/or stimulation of nitric oxide (NO) release. Moreover, LFME retains a considerable spasmogenic action due to its cholinergic properties. The hypotensive and spasmogenic effects of LFME justify its traditional uses.

This study aimed to elucidate the mechanism(s) of the spasmogenic action of Loranthus ferrugineus in isolated guinea pig ileum. Thus the contractile responses of guinea pig ileum to graded additions of either L. ferrugineus methanol extract or its n-butanol fraction were tested in the presence and absence of various pharmacological interventions. The data showed that L. ferrugineus methanol extract and the n-butanol fraction produced a concentration-dependent spasmogenic effect in isolated guinea pig ileum segments. These effects were significantly inhibited in the presence of 1 microM atropine. In contrast, the response to the lowest concentrations of L. ferrugineus methanol extract (0.25, 0.5 and 1 mg/mL) and n-butanol fraction of L. ferrugineus (0.125, 0.25 and 0.5 mg/mL) were considerably enhanced in the presence of 0.05 microM neostigmine. Neither L. ferrugineus methanol extract nor n-butanol fraction contractile responses were affected upon the incubation of the ileal segments with 100 microM hexamethonium. The results of this study show that the spasmogenic effect of L. ferrugineus is possibly mediated through a direct action on intestinal muscarinic receptors. It is suggested that the bioactive constituents of L. ferrugineus serve as a substrate for acetylcholinesterase.

We investigated the vascular responses and the blood pressure reducing effects of different fractions obtained from the methanol extract of Loranthus ferrugineus Roxb. (F. Loranthaceae). By means of solvent-solvent extraction, L. ferrugineus methanol extract (LFME) was successively fractionated with chloroform, ethyl acetate and n-butanol. The ability of these LFME fractions to relax vascular smooth muscle against phenylephrine (PE)- and KCl-induced contractions in isolated rat aortic rings was determined. In another set of experiments, LFME fractions were tested for blood pressure lowering activity in anesthetized adult male Sprague-Dawley rats (250-300 g, 14-18 weeks). The n-butanol fraction of LFME (NBF-LFME) produced a significant concentration-dependent inhibition of PE- and KCl-induced aortic ring contractions compared to other fractions. Moreover, NBF-LFME had a significantly higher relaxant effect against PE- than against high K+-induced contractions. In anesthetized Sprague-Dawley rats, NBF-LFME significantly lowered blood pressure in a dose-dependent manner and with a relatively longer duration of action compared to the other fractions. HPLC, UV and IR spectra suggested the presence of terpenoid constituents in both LFME and NBF-LFME. Accordingly, we conclude that NBF-LFME is the most potent fraction producing a concentration-dependent relaxation in vascular smooth muscle in vitro and a dose-dependent blood pressure lowering activity in vivo. The cardiovascular effects of NBF-LFME are most likely attributable to its terpenoid content.

Purpose. Benzimidazole class of compound is found to have diverse biological properties. From the literature study, it is observed that depression is a severe mental disease affecting a huge population and pain is affecting about 20% of world population. In continuation of our previous research work, we selected benzimidazole pharmacophore to further explore its pharmacological activities. Methods. Forced swim test and Thermal stimulus test were used to assess the antidepressant and analgesic activity of synthesized benzimidazole analogs. Results. The antidepressant activity results showed that compound 3j was found most potent having Mean ± SEM value 21.6 ± 0.8 for treated group. Furthermore, in the analgesic test, 3b, 3j, and 3o showed Mean ± SEM values; 1.8 ± 0.10, 2.3 ± 0.10 and 2.2 ± 0.10, respectively. The study results suggested that these compounds could be explored further for the development of better antidepressant and analgesic agents. Conclusion. From the present study, it may be concluded that these active benzimidazole derivatives have been found to possess potential antidepressant and analgesic activity

New 3-O-acyl, 3-benzylidene, 3-hydrazone, 3-hydrazine, 17-carboxyacryloyl ester derivatives of betulinic acid (2-6, 8-11, 13, 17, 18, 21, and 22) were synthesized and evaluated in vitro for anti-angiogenic activity on endothelial cell cytotoxicity, specificity, and tube-formation ability. All derivatives reported here showed IC(50)4 microg/mL. Compounds 3, 9, 10, 17, 21, and 22 have shown better cytotoxicity (IC(50)1.2 microg/mL) than betulinic acid (1) and improved endothelial cell specificity (ECS10) in some cases. Compounds 10, 17, and 18 have shown 20%, 32%, and 48% reduction in TLS, respectively, and were found better than betulinic acid (1). We have shown that 20,29-dihydrobetulinic acid derivatives have better anti-angiogenic activity as compared to betulinic acid or its other derivatives.

A series of 3-O-acyl, 3-hydrazine, 2-bromo, and 20,29-dibromo betulinic acid derivatives (1-27) have been synthesized and screened for in vitro cytotoxic activity on human cancer cell lines MOLT-4, JurkatE6.1, CEM.CM3, BRISTOL8, U937, DU145, PA-1, A549, and L132. A number of compounds have shown ED(50)

Objectives: In Malaysia dietary supplements are ram- pantly consumed for general health and well-being and therefore, available in community pharmacies, health food stores, night markets, grocery stores and even obtained via internet. However, gap in the level of Malaysian consumer’s awareness regarding the toxicity of dietary supplements is a major issue, which needs to be addressed by the analysis of their constituents. This study was aimed to evaluate and analyze the heavy metal contents such as lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), arsenic (As) and mercury (Hg) in registered dietary supplements available in community pharmacies in Malaysia Methods: This study was focused on Eurycoma longifolia (Tongkat Ali), glucosamine, Allium sativum (garlic) and Zingiber officinale (ginger) products. A total of twenty registered single ingredient dosage form dietary supple- ments from different brands were purchased from com- munity pharmacies located in Penang. The samples were then evaluated and subjected to analysis by atomic absorption spectrometry. Results: The study showed that variable amounts of lead have been quantified as 0.29 -0.47 ppm (Tongkat Ali), 0.19 – 0.27 ppm (glucosamine), 0.01 – 0.38 ppm (garlic) and 0.26 – 0.74 ppm (ginger) products. While for cad- mium detection, the amounts indicated 0.02 – 0.24 ppm (Tongkat Ali), 0.03 – 0.22 ppm (glucosamine), 0.06 ppm (ginger) and was absent in garlic No traces of arsenic and mercury were found in all four product samples. The regression linear coefficients (r2) for Pb, Cd, As and Hg standards were 0.9990, 0.9958, 0.9960 and 0.9989, respectively. Conclusions: The amount of Pb, Cd, As and Hg in all the products were found within the limits as per the re- quirement stated by National Pharmaceutical Control Bureau (NPCB). Thus, in order to ensure the safety and quality of dietary supplements, the analysis of heavy metals must be carried out on routine basis using simple and robust atomic absorption spectrometry (AAS) technique

Is there a Difference in Pharmacy Student's Attitudes about Independent Pharmacist Prescribing in Two Jurisdictions? The Australian Perspective T. Charrois, K. Hoti, C. Hughes, M. Rosenthal, School of Pharmacy, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada, EPICORE Centre, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada

Background: Ficus deltoidea (FD) is one of the native plants widely distributed in several countries in Southeast Asia. Previous studies have shown that FD leaf possess antinociceptive, wound healing and antioxidant properties . These beneficial effects have been attributed to the presence of primary and secondary metabolites such as polyphenols, amino acids and flavonoids. Objective: The aim was to develop a reverse phase high-performance liquid chromatography method with ultraviolet detection that involves precolumn derivatisation with O -phthaladehyde for simultaneous analysis of two amino acids L-citrulline and L-arginine in FD leaf extracts. Materials and Methods: An isocratic elution program consisting of methanol: acetonitrile: Water at 45:45:10 v/v (solvent A) and 0.1 M phosphate buffer pH 7.5 (solvent B) at A: B v/v ratio of 80:20 on Zorbax Eclipse C18 SB-Aq column (250 × 4.6 mm, 5 μm) were used. The flow rate was set at 1 ml/min and detection was carried out at 338 nm with 30 min separation time. Results: Good linearity for L-citrulline and L-arginine was obtained in the range 0.1-1000 μg/ml at R 2 ≥ 0.998. The limit of detection and limit of quantification values for both L-citrulline and L-arginine were 1 and 5 μg/ml, respectively. The average of recoveries was in the range 94.94-101.95%, with relative standard deviation (%RSD) less than 3%. Intra- and inter-day precision was in the range 96.36-102.43% with RSD less than 2%. Conclusion: All validation parameters of the developed method indicate the method is reliable and efficient for simultaneous determination of L-citrulline and L-arginine for routine analysis of FD.

Since time immemorial homo sapiens are subjected to both health and diseases states and seek treatment for succor and assuagement in compromised health states. Since last two decades the progressive rise in the alternative form of treatment cannot be ignored and population seems to be dissatisfied with the conventional treatment modalities and therefore, resort to other forms of treatment, mainly complementary and alternative medicine (CAM). The use of CAM is predominantly more popular in older adults and therefore, numerous research studies and clinical trials have been carried out to investigate the effectiveness of CAM in the management of both communicable and non-communicable disease. In this current mini review, we attempt to encompass the use of CAM in chronic non-communicable diseases that are most likely seen in geriatrics. The current review focuses not only on the reassurance of good health practices, emphasizing on the holistic development and strengthening the body's defense mechanisms, but also attempts to construct a pattern of self-care and patient empowerment in geriatrics. The issues of safety with CAM use cannot be sidelined and consultation with a health care professional is always advocated to the patient. Likewise, responsibility of the health care professional is to inform the patient about the safety and efficacy issues. In order to substantiate the efficacy and safety of CAMs, evidence-based studies and practices with consolidated standards should be planned and executed.

Objectives: Developing countries are struggling with the high cost of treatment and generic medicines could be instrumental in curtailing the cost of treatment and reduce healthcare expenditures. Pakistan is not an exception to this issue. This study is a mere attempt to explore the knowledge and perception of Pakistani consumers towards generic medicines. Methods: Three hundred questionnaires were interview administered to a quota sample of Pakistani consumers. This type of sampling could assist in assuring the inclusion of those respondents that could be likely underrepresented in convenience sampling. Gender and income group were considered as quota control variables. The criterion was chosen because for gender there is equal chance of selection of both males and females. Moreover, income group was considered another quota control variable because for generic medicines cost is obviously the most important reason for selection of generic medicines. Results: The mean age of the respondents was 46.5 �11.38. Out of 300 respondents 167 (55.7%) were found to be male while the remaining 133 (44.3%) were found to be female. A very few respondents from high income group had medical insurance coverage (n¼30; 10.0%). A very large majority of consumers never heard the term generic medicines (n¼207; 69%). Slightly less than half of the respondents agreed (n¼135; 44.0%) that low cost medicines are as effective as brand medicines. A very large majority agreed (n¼254; 84.7%) that their doctor prescribes the best medicine for them. More than half of the respondents expressed their comfort to switch from one brand to another because of low cost potential. A very large majority of the respondents showed their outlook (n¼258; 86.0%) that doctors should talk about the cost before writing a prescription. Conclusions: The study demonstrated gaps in the knowledge of generic medicines but somewhat, good perception was noted among consumers.

Background: Vinca rosea (Apocynaceae) is one of the most important and high value medicinal plants known for its anticancer alkaloids. It is the iota of the isolated secondary metabolites used in chemotherapy to treat diverse cancers. Several high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) methods have been developed to quantify the active alkaloids in the plant. However, this method may serve the purpose in quantification of V. rosea plant extracts in totality. Objective: To develop and validate the reverse phase (RP)-HPLC method for simultaneous determination of secondary metabolites, namely alkaloids from V. rosea plant extracts. Materials and Methods: The quantitative determination was conducted by RP-HPLC equipped with ultraviolet detector. Optimal separation was achieved by isocratic elution with mobile phase consisting of methanol:acetonitrile:ammonium acetate buffer (25 mM) with 0.1% triethylamine (15:45:40 v/v) on a column (Zorbax Eclipse plus C 18 , 250 mm × 4.6 mm; 5 μm). The standard markers (vindoline, vincristine, catharanthine, and vinblastine) were identified by retention time and co-injected with reference standard and quantified by external standard method at 297 nm. Results: The precision of the method was confirmed by the relative standard deviation (R.S.D.), which was lower than 2.68%. The recoveries were in the range of 98.09%-108%. The limits of detection (LOD) for each marker alkaloids were lower than 0.20 μg. Different parts of the V. rosea extracts shows different concentrations of markers, flower samples were high in vinblastine content, while methanol extract from the leaves contains all the four alkaloids in good yield, and there is no significant presence of markers in water extracts. Conclusion: HPLC method established is appropriate for the standardization and quality assurance of V. rosea plant extracts.

Background In the present study, we tested a 50% ethanolic extract of Orthosiphon stamineus plants and its isolated bioactive compound with respect to their α-glucosidase and α-amylase inhibitory activities. Methods Bioactive flavonoid sinensetin was isolated from 50% ethanolic extract of Orthosiphon stamineus. The structure of this pure compound was determined on the NMR data and the α-glucosidase and α-amylase inhibitory activities of isolated sinensetin and 50% ethanolic extract of Orthosiphon stamineus were evaluated. Results In vitro studies of a 50% ethanolic extract of O. stamineus and the isolated sinensetin compound showed inhibitory activity on α-glucosidase (IC50: 4.63 and 0.66 mg/ml, respectively) and α-amylase (IC50: 36.70 mg/ml and 1.13 mg/ml, respectively). Inhibition of these enzymes provides a strong biochemical basis for the management of type 2 diabetes via the control of glucose absorption. Conclusion Alpha-glucosidase and α-amylase inhibition could the mechanisms through which the 50% ethanolic extract of O. stamineus and sinensetin exert their antidiabetic activity, indicating that it could have potential use in the management of non-insulin-dependent diabetes.