Journal of Coastal Life Medicine

51-58

Authors: Md. Abdus Samad, Shamol Chandra Barman, Sujit Kumar Chatterjee, Md. Mustafizur Rahman, Alok Kumar PaulMd. Mustafizur Rahman

Objective: To conduct on sustainable fingerling production technique of endangered Labeo calbasu (Hamilton, 1822) (L. calbasu) based on different protein levels in ponds. Methods: The experiment was carried out under rearing pond in fish hatchery complex with three treatments group each having three replicates under department of fisheries, University of Rajshahi. L. calbasu were stocked at 41990/ha in T1, T2 and T3, respectively. The initial length of L. calbasu in three treatments were (4.60 ± 0.10) cm and initial weights were (3.48 ± 0.01) g. Fishes were fed with 28%, 30%, 32% protein supplement for T1, T2, T3, respectively. The fishes were initially fed at 10% of body weight on 1st and 2nd fortnight. Then it was decreased at 8% of body weight on 3rd and 4th fortnight. Finally in 5th fortnight they were fed 5% of body weight. The physico-chemical characteristics of pond water were measured fortnightly. Results: The mean final weight gain was found highest in T3 (40.87 ± 0.01) g which was significant compared to T1 and T2. SGR (% bwd–1) was found 2.83 ± 0.02 (T1), 3.04 ± 0.01 (T2) and 3.39 ± 0.01 (T3). The highest survival rate of L. calbasu was found in T3 (90.00 ± 1.00) and the lowest was found in T1 (87.00 ± 1.00). The best FCR (1.54 ± 0.01) was observed in T 3 fed with 32% protein supplement. The highest production was observed in T3 (1672.20 ± 16.96 kg/ha/75 days) and lowest was observed in T1 (1055.50 ± 29.04 kg/ha/75 days). The highest net benefit was calculated in T3 (260663.00 ± 4326.88 tk.) and lowest was found in T1 (112831.00 ± 7383.66 tk.). The CBR was found 0.60 ± 0.04, 0.80 ± 0.02 and 1.16 ± 0.02 in T1, T2 and T3, respectively. There were significant differences in CBR values among the three treatments. Conclutions: In this study, growth parameters i.e., weight gain, SGR (% bwd–1), length gain, total yield were significantly (P < 0.05) improved in T3 treatment fed with 32% protein supplemented diets.

66-69

Authors: Wanigasekara Daya Ratnasooriya Sachitra Gayanthi Ratnasooriya, Chatura Dayendra Tissa Ratnasooriya, Ranga Dissanayake

Objective: To investigate the antifungal potential of different grades of Sri Lankan orthodox black tea [orange pekoe, broken orange pekoe fannings (BOPF) and Dust No. 1] belonging to the three agro-climatic elevations (low, mid and high). Methods: Antifungal activity was assessed in vitro using methanolic extracts (300 µg/disc) and agar disc diffusion bioassay technique against three Candida species, Candida albicans (C. albicans), Candida glabrata (C. glabrata), and Candida tropicalis. ketoconazole and itraconazole mixture was used as positive control (10 µg/disc) and methanol was used as the negative control. The minimum inhibitory concentrations were also determined using standard protocols. Results: None of the extracts were effective against Candida tropicalis. Furthermore, orange pekoe grade tea belonging to all agro-climatic elevations did not induce any antifungal activity against C. albicans and C. glabrata as well. Conversely, Dust No. 1 belonging to all three agro-climatic elevations and low-grown BOPF showed moderate antifungal activity against C. albicans and C. glabrata. Interestingly, the severity of the antifungal effect varied with agroclimatic elevations. The minimum inhibitory concentrations ranged from 64.00–128.00 µg/mL against C. glabrata and 128.00-256.00 µg/mL against C. albicans. Conclusions: Sri Lankan Dust No. 1 and BOPF have marked antifungal activity in vitro and offer promise to be used as a supplementary beverage in prophylaxis and during drug treatment in candidiasis.

77-81

Authors: Chukwugozie Nwachukwu Okwuosa, Nkiruka Chinonyelum Azubike, Daniel Chukwu Nwachukwu, Augustine Chukwudum Onuba, Elvis Neba Shu

Objective: To investigate the effect of crude methanolic extract of Combretum racemosum (C. racemosum) leaves on histamine-stimulated gastric secretion in rats. Methods: Phytochemical and acute toxicity tests were performed. Anti-secretory activity of C. racemosum extract was investigated in pyloric ligated rats administered histamine. Gastric juice was collected from all the animals and the volume, titratable acidity, pH and mucus content were measured. The effect of C. racemosum extract on calcium chloride induced contractions of the guinea-pig ileum suspended in high potassium, calcium-deficient depolarizing solution was investigated. The H2 receptor antagonistic potency was also evaluated using the isolated non-gravid rat uterus. Results: Phytochemistry revealed the presence of abundant amounts of saponins and moderate amounts of glycosides, terpenoids, proteins, reducing sugar, resins, alkaloids, flavonoids and carbohydrates. The oral LD50 of the extract was greater than 8 000 mg/kg body weight in mice. Pretreatment of pyloric ligated rats with C. racemosum prior to histamine administration significantly reduced (P < 0.001) the volume of gastric juice and titratable acidity, and significantly increased (P < 0.001) gastric pH and gastric mucus when compared to the negative control. Both doses of C. racemosum protected rats significantly (P < 0.001) from histamine-induced ulceration. C. racemosum potently inhibited contractions evoked by calcium chloride in a dose-dependent and reversible manner with an IC50 of 1 132 µg/mL. It also antagonized the relaxant effect of histamine on the isolated rat uterus in a manner comparable to cimetidine. Conclusions: The leaves of C. racemosum possess gastric anti-secretory and anti-ulcer effects and justify its use in traditional medicine in South-East Nigeria for the treatment of peptic ulcer disease.

88-94

Authors: Dinesh Kumar Patel

American wormseed oil, also known as Chenopodium ambrosioides oil, is obtained from the herbs of the genus Chenopodium which comprises more than 200 species and belongs to the geographical region of Asia, Europe, China, India, America and other countries. Chenopodium has been traditionally used for digestive, respiratory, diabetes, uro-genital, nervous and vascular disorders and has antihelminthic, vermifuge, emmenagogue sedative, antipyretic, antirheumatic and abortifacient activities. Ascaridole is a bicyclic monoterpene commonly known as ascarisin or 1,4-epidioxy-p-menth-2-ene which have sedative, antifungal and painrelieving properties. It is a potent inhibitor of Trypanosoma cruzi, Plasmodium falciparum, and Leishmania amazonensis and is well known for its worm-expelling potential. Ascaridole was firstly isolated by a German pharmacist in the 1900’s and at that time it was one of the best antihelmintics for the treatment of ascarids and hookworms in humans and other species like cats, dogs, horses and pigs. Ascaridole could be extracted by using a non-polar solvent hexane due to its very poor solubility in water. From the literature support, it has been proved that ascaridole have very high potential in the modern and other system of medicine for the treatment of various disorders. So on the basic of its uses, here we have collected and compiled all the data regarding its medicinal uses, pharmacological activities and analytical techniques of the ascaridole in the present review and expected that this review will be beneficial for the researcher in the field of medicine and other allied science.

4-6

Authors: Sadaf Tabassum, Farzana Yousuf, Naeema Elahi, Md. Yeamin Hossain, Md. Alomgir Hossen, Fairuz Nawer, Dalia Khatun, Most. Farida Parvin

Objective: To describe the diet and feeding ecology of Hemiramphus far (H. far) through investigating the stomach contents. Methods: Sampling of total 430 individuals of H. far was carried out from commercial catches landed at West Wharf fish harbor of Karachi coast, Pakistan during January–December 2010. The total length and weight of each individual were recorded. Samples were parted into Group 1 (15–20 cm, n = 240) and Group 2 (21–26 cm, n = 190), to estimate changes in diet with fish size. To remove alimentary canal, fishes were dissected and kept into 10% formalin. Then gut contents were examined under a light microscope for each intestine. Stomach fullness as well as dietary composition was ascertained from gut contents. Examination and analyses were conducted using frequency of occurrence and numerical method. Results: The examination confirmed 47.67% stomach as empty. Furthermore, our study revealed that the diet of H. far consists of fishes, isopods, ostracods, Daphnia, shells, algae, unidentified plants and animal materials. This study proved that H. far is an omnivorous fish feeding on fishes, isopods, shells, algae and plant and animal originated different food items. According to the Schoener overlap index, there was no significant difference in feeding of the two length groups of H. far (C = 0.833). In addition, the Shannon-Wiener index presented that in Group 1, the prey diversity of the halfbeak was lower (H = 0.90) than that of Group 2 (H = 1.02). Conclusions: The findings of the present study would be very effective for sustainable management of black-barred halfbeak fishery in the Karachi coast of Pakistan and the surrounding ecosystems.

13-15

Authors: Khadija Kadhem Hreeb

Objective: To evaluate the effect of some different water temperatures on growth of aquatic plants (Salvinia natans and Ceratophyllum demersum). Methods: The aquatic plants were brought from Shatt Al-Arab River in 2016. Equal weights of aquatic plants were aquacultured in aquaria, and were exposed to three different temperatures ( 12, 22 and 32 °C). Results: The results showed that the two plants did not show significant differences with respect to their effects on pH and electrical conductivity values. Time and temperature did not affect the values of pH and electrical conductivity. The values of dissolved oxygen was significantly influenced with variation of time and temperature, while the two plants did not have significant differences on dissolved oxygen values, nitrate ion concentration and was not significantly influenced with variation of plant species or temperature or time. Plant species and temperature significantly affected phosphate ion concentration, while the time did not significantly influence the concentration of phosphate ion. Chlorophyll a content and biomass were significantly influenced with the variation of plant species, and temperature . Conclusions: Aquatic plants has a species specific respond to temperatures change in their environment. Water plant, Ceratophyllum demersum is more tolerant to temperatures change than Salvinia natans.

22-26

Authors: Md. Sarwar Hossain, Md. Sahab Uddin, Md. Asaduzzaman, Mst. Shirajum Munira, Md. Josim Uddin, Md. Rajdoula Rafe, Md. Mosiqur Rahman

Objective: To examine the analgesic and anti-inflammatory activities of Xanthosoma sagittifolium L. (X. sagittifolium) leaves. Methods: The fresh leaves of X. sagittifolium were extracted with methanol followed by fractionation using ethyl acetate fraction (EAF), n-hexane fraction, chloroform fraction and aqueous fraction. The analgesic activity was determined by acetic acid-induced writhing test and tail immersion test using Swiss albino male mice. Carrageenan-induced paw edema test was used to resolve the anti-inflammatory activity using Wistar albino male rats. Results: The results displayed that among these four samples, EAF had maximum analgesic efficacy (P < 0.001) measured by acetic acid-induced writhing test (71.37%). In case of tail immersion test, EAF also exerted maximum activity (5.03 s, P < 0.001) at 180 min compared to n-hexane fraction, chloroform fraction and aqueous fraction at maximum concentration. In case of anti-inflammatory test, EAF remained ascendancy in its activity (P < 0.001) and it inhibited 72.92% of paw edema at maximum concentration at 180 min with respect to remaining fractions. Conclusions: The above evidences suggest that EAF of X. sagittifolium leaves is a potential source of natural compounds having analgesic and anti-inflammatory activities.

29-35

Authors: Devesh Parkar, Rahul Jadhav, Mukesh Pimpliskar

Marine ecosystems are of great importance to humans since evolution. Conventionally, polysaccharides were isolated from plants, algae, etc. As science advanced, various sources of exopolysaccharides have been found. Exopolysaccharides have wide applications in food, medical, pharmaceutical and environmental industries which lead to the exploration of more aspects regarding extracellular polymeric substances (EPS). Various marine bacteria, such as Bacillus, Halomonas, Planococcus, Enterobacter, Alteromonas, Pseudoalteromonas, Vibrio, Rhodococcus, etc., have been extensively studied for the marine EPS isolation and its characterization. In this review, the composition, biosynthesis of EPS, along with major sources of EPS and potential applications have been discussed.

932-934

Authors: Nader Hajizadeh, Najibeh Shirzad, Ali Farzi, Mojtaba Salouti, Azra Momeni

Objective: To investigate the ability of Pseudomonas sp. isolated from East Azarbaijan, Iran in bioremediation of resorcinol. Methods: Resorcinol biodegradation was evaluated using spectrophotometry and confirmed by gas chromatography-mass spectroscopy. Results: This isolate was able to remove up to 37.12% of resorcinol from contaminated water. Reusability experiments had confirmed the biodegradation process which produced seven intermediate compounds. These intermediates were characterized by gas chromatographymass spectroscopy technique. The products of resorcinol biodegradation were apparently 1, 4-cyclohexadiene, nonadecene, 2-heptadecanone, 1-isopropyl-2-methoxy-4-methylbenzene, hexadecanoic acid, 9-octadecenoic acid, phenol and 5-methyl-2-(1-methylethyl). Conclusions: The findings revealed that Pseudomonas sp. is able to degrade resorcinol. Because of being an indigenous organism, this isolate is more compatible with the climate of the northwest region of Iran and possibly will be used for degradation of other similar aromatic compounds.

944-948

Authors: Muhamad Firdaus, Setyawati Soeharto

Objective: To evaluate hypoglycemic, free radical scavenging and improving antioxidant enzymes activities on diabetic-induced streptozotocin rats by Sargassum polycystum (S. polycystum) extract. Methods: The seaweed extract was obtained by maceration, concentration and freeze drying, respectively. Acute toxicity was investigated on 25 rats. Forty eight of rats were used to study anti-stress oxidative of extract and divided into eight groups, where the first and fifth group were normal and diabetic control. The normal and diabetic treated groups were administered orally with extracts of S. polycystum for 28 days. The blood glucose and body weight of rats were observed each week. The blood was obtained for determination of malondialdehide, superoxide dismutase, catalase and glutathione peroxidase, respectively. Results: Extract of S. polycystum revealed no mortality and it was grouped as relatively nontoxic substance. The normal rats revealed difference statistically to the diabetic rats. The diabetic rats treated extract showed decreasing of blood glucose level and increasing of body weight. The diabetic rats were treated with 450 mg/kg of extract showed the higher oxidative stress augmentation than other diabetic treatments. It was caused free radical scavenging and induction of antioxidant enzymes activity by brown seaweed extract. Conclusions: The extract of S. echinocarpum reduce oxidative stress on diabetic-induced streptozotocin rats and demonstrate as candidate of antioxidant diabetic substances.

953-954

Authors: Ali Yousefi, Mohammad Naser Ghorbani, Sadegh Salehi-Guilandeh

Objective: To access the emerging ectoparasites associated with shrews in Hamedan Province of Iran. Methods: We have captured bicoloured white-toothed shrews [Crocidura leucodon (C. leucodon)] using the live traps in April 2014. Ectoparasites collected by brushing the skins were removed and preserved in 70% ethanol containing 5% glycerin, and subsequently they were sent to the parasitology laboratory and processed. The fleas isolated from infested specimen were cleared in 10% aqueous potassium hydroxide, dehydrated in ethanol, cleared in xylene, mounted in Canada balsam and identified using reliable keys. Results: In general, eight fleas (one male, seven females) were collected from C. leucodon in Hamedan Province, Western Iran. The fleas were identified as Leptopsylla algira costai Smit, 1955. Conclusions: Fleas are medically important because they transmit a wide variety of diseases to their hosts. In addition, this aricle reports Leptopsylla algira costai for the first time in new host (C. leucodon) and new geographical region (Iran).

961-964

Authors: Tasmia Rahman, Samira Karim, Zubair Khalid Labu

Objective: To justify the folkloric use of Swietenia mahagoni (S. mahagoni) seeds, 90% ethanolic extract and their aqueous and organic partitioning substances were evaluated for their possible antidiarrhoeal and antimicrobial potentials in vivo. Methods: Crude ethanolic extract of S. mahagoni seeds were subjected and partitioned into fractions using solvents at different polarity. Antimicrobial and antidiarrheal activities were evaluated and subsequently outcomes were corresponded with the conventional standard drugs. Results: The antidiarrheal activity was assessed using mouse model, where unfractionated ethanolic extract significantly reduced, the number, onset, rate and weight of diarrheal episodes. This fraction showed the limited number of defecation episodes of 27.0% and 40.9% at dose of 200 mg/kg and 400 mg/kg body weight respectively and reference drug, loperamide, showed 53% at a dose of 50 mg/kg. All extract fractions exhibited the significant potential to kill or subside the growth of known Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. Conclusions: Ethanolic extract and their aqueous and organic fractious revealed the seeds of S. mahagoni (Linn.) have the potential to be used as a remedy for diarrhea and known pathogenic microbes which ensured the folkloric use of the seeds of S. mahagoni.

969-973

Authors: Mathalaimuthu Baranitharan*, Shanmugam Dhansekaran, Kadarkarai Murugan, Kalimuthu Kovendan, Jayapal Gokulakrishnan

Objective: To decide the larvicides, ovicidal, pupicidal and repellent activity of Melissa officinalis (M. officinalis) chemical compositions against important mosquito Anopheles stephensi (An. stephensi) (Diptera: Culicidae). Methods: A chemical constituent of 24 compounds was identified in the oils of M. officinalis compounds representing to 98.73%. A total of 25 3rd instar larvae of An. stephensi were showed to a variety of concentrations (30–300 mg/L) in laboratory by means of utilizing the standard procedure portrayed by World Health Organization (2005). The larvae were exposed for 24 h and mortalities were subjected to probit analysis. The ovicidal activity was strong-minded against An. stephensi mosquito to a variety of concentrations ranging from 15– 90 mg/L under the laboratory circumstances. The repellent activity of M. officinalis chemical compositions tested at concentrations of 0.75 and 1.50 mg/cm2 was evaluated in a net cage (45 cm × 45 cm × 40 cm) including 100 blood starving female mosquitoes of An. stephensi using the methods of World Health Organization (1996). Results: The LC50 and LC90 values of citronellal compound against An. stephensi larvae were 85.44 and 159.73 mg/L, respectively. Mean percent hatchability of the ovicidal action was observed 48 h post-treatment. Similarly, the citronellal compound and other compositions were found to be mainly effective against eggs of An. stephensi. Citronellal compound exerted 45, 60, 75 and 90 mg/L against An. stephensi, respectively. The repellent activity of citronellal compound was contained to be mainly effective and the maximum action was observed at 0.75 and 1.50 mg/cm2 concentrations giving 100% protection up to 210 min against An. stephensi. Conclusions: This current study was undertaken to evaluate the larvicidal, ovicidal, repellent potential of compounds from the M. officinalis essential oil against An. stephensi. This is initial statement on the mosquito larvicidal, ovicidal and repellent activity of M. officinalis chemical compositions.

980-982

Authors: Mohammad Salehi, Abdolmajid Ghasemian, Seyyed Khalil Shokouhi Mostafavi, Farshad Nojoomi, Mohammad Karim Rahimi

Objective: To assess the antimicrobial susceptibility pattern of ESKAPE pathogens from Neyshabur, Iran during 2013–2015. Methods: A total of 345 isolates including 62 Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus), 38 Enterobacter spp. (including 14 Enterobacter agglomerans, 6 Enterobacter aerogenes and other 18 Enterobacter spp.), 123 Enterococcus faecium, 78 Klebsiella pneumonia, 10 Pseudomonas aeruginosa and 34 Acinetobacter baumannii were isolated. The antimicrobial susceptibility pattern of isolates was conducted with Kirby Bauer method. Data were analyzed with SPSS 20.0 software using F- and t-tests. Results: Among S. aureus isolates, the highest resistance was observed against nalidixic acid (81.35%) and cefixime (74.50%). Thirty-three (53.22%) S. aureus isolates were cefoxitin resistant (methicillin-resistant S. aureus). The majority of Enterobacter species was resistant to amikacin (100.00%) and cephalotin (66.60%). Most Enterococcus faecium isolates were resistant to nalidixic acid (89.43%) and amikacin (83.33%), but vancomycin-resistant enterococci isolates were not detected. Moreover, among Klebsiella pneumonia, the highest resistance was observed to nalidixic acid (20.98%) and cotrimoxazole (28.39%). Furthermore, all Pseudomonas aeruginosa isolates were resistant to cefotaxime (100.00%) and majority to nitroforantoin (88.80%). Acinetobacter baumannii isolates showed the highest and the lowest resistance to cefotaxime (100.00%) and cefixime (88.71%), respectively. Conclusions: The prevalence of ESKAPE pathogens from northeast region was low, but majority of them exhibited high rate of antibiotic resistance to common used antimicrobial agents.

1000-1007

Authors: Kanika Patel, Raghav Mishra, Dinesh Kumar Patel

Herbal plant materials have huge potential in the field of medicine, nutraceuticals, perfumery, beverages, fragrances, cosmetics and dyeing industry. Centella asiatica (L.) Urban (family: Apiaceae) (C. asiatica) is a very popular medicinal herb in Sri Lanka, Madagascar, India and other parts of Asia. Gotu kola, Brahmi and Mandukparniin are the synonyms of C. asiatica which is mainly used for improving memory power. The pharmacological importance of C. asiatica is mainly because of triterpenes such as asiatic acid, asiaticoside, madecassoside and madecassic acid, etc. C. asiatica is mainly used for the treatment of mental fatigue, anxiety, epidermal wound, eczema, leprosy, asthma, psoriasis, ulcers and vein diseases. Asiaticoside is a pentacyclic triterpenoid saponin having anti-depression, anti-tumor, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant properties and further it also possesses wound healing, antiulcer and anti-hepatofibrotic activities. It improved cognitive impairment in diabetic condition because of the decreased oxidative stress. Quantification of asiaticoside in C. asiatica has been done by several methods which were mainly based on high performance liquid chromatography methods using different compositions of mobile phase sand detection systems. In these days scientists are trying to discover novel medicine from natural sources for the development of better drugs. In this review we have collected information of asiaticoside in respect to its medicinal values, pharmacological activities, extraction, isolation, and other analytical aspects. So the present review will be supportive to the scientists who are trying to develop some novel medicines from asiaticoside for the better health prospects.

846-851

Authors: Amrendra Kumar, Vaishnavi Ramasubbu, Kiran D Rasal, Saravanankumar Ayyappan

Objective: To identify white spot syndrome virus (WSSV) entry into the host-cells of the cultured shrimp Penaeus monodon, we have attempted to localize PmRab7 (Ras-related in brain) which is playing a vital role in the WSSV internalization. Methods: In this study, we have cloned PmRab7 and expressed in Escherichia coli, further purified rPmRab7 was used for antibody production, isolation of lysosomal sub-cellular fractions and western blot against lysosomal protein. Moreover, high fold-change in PmRab7 regulation with increasing copy number of WSSV has been studied by using real-time PCR. Results: 651 bp amplicon size gene was successfully amplified, ligated amplicon with pTZ T-tail vector confirmed by colony PCR and retriction enzyme digestion on agarose gel. Subcloned (pRSET-B) 651 bp gene transformed successfully in Rosetta and after 6 h of induction expressed rPmRab7 was on SDS page, furthermore soluble fraction of rPmRab7 (26 kDa) was purified by ni-NTA column. AntiPmRab7 antibody was received by Merk Pvt. Ltd., and western blot analysis revealed that PmRab7 is present in the lysosomal sub-cellular fraction. Copy number of WSSV was increased 5 fold in 24 h and 20 fold in 72 h of infection and subsequently transcrtipt of PmRab7 was Ct = 1.0 to Ct = 8.5. Conclusions: Presence of PmRab7 on lysosome clearly indicating PmRab7 participating in lysosomal maturation, other hand WSSV may follow the same route of entry. WSSV internalization has directly linked with regulation of PmRab7.

856-860

Authors: Joseph Oghenebukome Onojafe, Andy Ogochukwu Egwunyenga, Jephtha Christopher Nmor

Objective: To determine the ecological parameters affecting the distribution of Simulium damnosum immature stages in some rivers within the endemic areas of Delta State, Nigeria. Methods: Onchocerca larvae were observed and identified for each river. An average sized colander with fine mesh was used to scoop the area to obtain the larvae along with other benthos. Physiochemical characteristics of the water at breeding sites were analyzed for a 12 months period. Correlation analysis was performed to establish the association between the larval densities and physicochemical parameters of blackfly. Results: The seasonal variation in the physical and chemical characteristics of these environments impaired the population dynamics of blackflies. The physicochemical parameters significantly varied among breeding sites (P < 0.05), in which the temperature of surface water ranged between 23.2 °C and 30.3 °C, water flow velocity ranged between 0.4 and 1.3 m/s, dissolved oxygen ranged between 5.1 and 9.0 mg/L and pH ranged between 5.4 and 7.4. The mean collection of Simulium larvae was the highest in River Otor (44.1) and the least in River Namormai (19.1). There was significant difference (P < 0.05) in the number of larvae collected from the sampled rivers. Also, the number of larvae collected significantly correlated with surface water temperature, water flow velocity, dissolved oxygen and pH. Conclusions: This study identified significant correlations between physicochemical parameters and blackfly larvae densities thus providing a precontrol evidence-based data for the control of onchocerciasis in the endemic areas of North Delta.

865-867

Authors: Kaouther Majouli, Malek Besbes Hlila , Guido Flamini , Hichem Ben Jannet, Abderraouf Kenani

Objective: To investigate the antibacterial activity of essential oils from Hertia cheirifolia L. flowers, vegetative part (leaves + stems) and roots against a panel of bacterial strains. Methods: The essential oils from Hertia cheirifolia L. flowers, vegetative part (leaves + stems) and roots were analyzed by gas chromatography and gas chromatography–mass spectrometry. The antibacterial activity of essential oils was evaluated in vitro by the broth dilution method. Results: The results showed that the essential oil of flowers exhibited a strong antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus with minimal inhibitory concentration of 0.078 mg/mL. Conclusions: The essential oils of Hertia cheirifolia can be a good source of antibacterial compounds. They can be used for pharmaceutical treatments.

874-878

Authors: Karim Samira, Kawsar Md., Farhina Rahman Laboni, Azima Sultana Julie, Uddin Jalal, Zubair Khalid Labu

Objective: To investigate the clot lysis, antimicrobic and membrane stabilizing potentials of ethanolic extractives of the leaves of Heliotropium indicum (H. indicum). Methods: Crude ethanolic extracts of H. indicum leaves were partitioned successively using solvents of different polarity and subjected to determine qualitatively and quantitatively for the presence of different bioactive constitutes and fractions which were assessed for their possible clot lysis, antimicrobic, and membrane stabilizing activities as compared with the known drugs. Results: For the thrombolytic activity, the petroleum ether soluble fraction showed the highest percent of clot lysis (35.4%) among all fractions, while streptokinase and water resulted in 65.15% and 3.77% clot lysis, respectively. With respect to the membrane stabilizing activity, carbon tetrachloride soluble fraction of H. indicum profoundly interdicted the hemolysis of erythrocytes brought about by osmotic induction (39.24%) or by heat (40.20%). The other fractions exhibited less significant membrane stabilizing effect. By contrast, acetylsalicylic acid resulted in 72.25% ± 0.30% inhibition of osmotically induced hemolysis and showed a lower level of protection of heat induced hemolysis (42.56%). Crude ethanolic extracts were moderately sensitive against known pathogenic microbes. Since pharmacological activities of H. indicum are due to the presence of bioactive compounds, we detected and quantified the presence of significant levels of flavonoid and tannin substances. Conclusions: The outcomes of this research show that the leaves of H. indicum have the potential to be used as a remedy for thrombosis, inflammatory diseases and against few important bacterial pathogens.

884-886

Authors: Emmanue Ogboma Dania , Temitayo Fayehun, Osemhengbe Ruth Akhabue

Objective: To investigate the effect of different crude oil fractions (whole crude and water soluble fraction) at 2% contamination (98% distilled water) and the effect of 2 g of palm bunch ash (PBA) on the phytotoxicity of crude oil fraction on growth parameters such as percentage of seedling emergence, plant height, number of leaves, length of root, length of radical and leaf area in maize (Zea mays). Methods: A total of 180 bags containing 500 g of loamy soil each were used for this study, of which 30 bags containing loamy soil each served as control, 60 bags of soil were added each 2% crude oil fraction and 60 bags of soil were added each 2% crude oil fraction and 2 g PBA each, while 30 bags of soil contained each 2 g of PBA only. The maize grown on the soil was harvested after 7, 14 and 21 days of seedling emergence and assessed for growth parameters. Results: The growth parameters (plant height, length of root, length of radicle, number of leaves, and leaf area) in maize were significantly reduced in the crude oil fraction treatment (P ≤ 0.05). The treatment containing PBA was found to have significant improvement compared to the crude oil fraction contaminated treatment. Conclusions: The study has revealed the deleterious effect of crude oil at 2% on maize and its effect was ameliorated using PBA.

890-895

Authors: Bamidele Akinsanya, Adedotun Adesegun Adenusi, Oluwatobi Dolapo

Objective: To determine malaria prevalence, knowledge, attitude and practices at residents of Lagos Island Local Government. Methods: Two hundred blood samples were collected from adults attending the General Hospital, Marina while 100 questionnaires were administered to individuals still in the same hospital. Majority of the respondents were between the ages of 18 and 30 years (44%), while the age group 60 and above had the lowest population (9%). Results: More than half of the respondents (68%) were employed and engaged in different occupations such as entrepreneur (32%), students (31%), trader (24%), and civil servant (10%). Stratification of the respondents by income revealed that 71% earned above the minimum wage, while 29% earned below. The prevalence of malaria by microscopy method was 10.5%. Malaria parasite had significant effect on the packed cell volume of infected individuals (P < 0.05). Preventive measures employed by the respondents were majorly insecticide (72.2%), while some others (5.6%) used mosquito net. Majority of the respondents (98%) believed that malaria was caused by mosquito. Conclusions: Therefore, it is appropriate to put in place preventive measures against malaria to avoid high prevalence of the number one killer in tropical Africa.

898-901

Authors: Kifayatullah Muhammad, Shahimi Mustapha Mohd , Amin Muhammad , Hameed Sardar, Ullah Izhar

The use of natural products as a source of remedies has long history since ancient times. Currently, medicinal plants are traditional practices for an extensive range of therapeutics and pharmacological activities like hypoglycemic, immunological, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, anti-hepatic, cardiovascular and central nervous effect. In the past, the use of plant based medicines was mainly restricted to developing countries because of insufficient resources, but currently the trend is changed and natural products as a source of medicines are growing rapidly in developed countries. It is confirmed from research articles that nearly about 75%– 80% of the reserved zone inhabitants used natural products for their health remedies. In all, about 250 000–500 000 species of plants exist worldwide and almost 800 plants have been documented for use in folklore systems of medicine. Regarding to this, Malaysia is being accepted as one of the largest biodiversity countries. In Malaysia, 12 000 species of natural products exist and 1200 are documented to have remedial potential against various diseases. In the market, a variety of allopathic drugs are available, but are linked to various side effects. Hence, there is rising interest in the direction to plant based medicines remedies with a basic tactic towards the nature. The anti-diabetic drugs from natural products source in current use and their same way of producing action are preferred mainly due to affordable price, easy availability and minor harmful effect on human beings. Therefore, the aim of the present research work was to review various Malaysian medicinal plants having potential in attenuation of high level of blood glucose. All over the world, diabetes mellitus is claimed to be one of the most common chronic hereditary non-communicable disease, fourth leading cause of mortality in the most developed countries. The disease is also spreading in many developing and newly industrialized nations. According to International Diabetes Federation, the diabetes will affect 592 million people in 2035.

918-924

Authors: Mubashir Hussain, Yamin Bibi , Naveed Iqbal Raja , Muhammad Iqbal , Sumaira Aslam , Nida Tahir, Muhammad Imran , Anam Iftikhar

Medicinal plants are the nature’s gift for the humanity to treat various ailments and to spend a prosperous healthy life. There are almost 300 species of Ajuga. Among them, Ajuga bracteosa Wall. ex Benth (A. bracteosa) is an important medicinal plant of Himalaya regions. Its medicinal potential is due to the presence of various pharmacologically active compounds such as neo-clerodane diterpenoids, flavonol glycosides, iridoid glycosides, ergosterol-5,8- endoperoxide and phytoecdysones. The aim of this review article was to gather information about A. bracteosa which is currently scattered in form of various publications. This review article tried to attract the attention from people for therapeutic potential of A. bracteosa. The present review comprises upto date information of botanical aspects, active ingredients, traditional uses, and pharmacological activities such as antitumor, antimicrobial, antimalarial, anti-inflammatory, cardiotonic activity, antiarthritic activity, antioxidant activity and in vitro production of secondary metabolites for pharmaceuticals. Due to remarkable medicinal potential and commercialization, this species is indexed into critically endangered category and it is facing extremely high risk of extinction. Conservation practices and management techniques should be carried out to protect this important species from extinction. Recent biotechnological approaches will be quite helpful for its conservation.

760-764

Authors: Parijat Das, Tirthankar Saha, Tapti Sengupta

Objective: To investigate granuloma associated mycobacteriosis in Pampus argenteus (P. argenteus) (silver pomfrets) and its seasonal prevalence in marine and coastal aquaculture systems of West Bengal, India. Methods: P. argenteus having granulomatous infection were sampled from coastal areas of East Midnapore District of West Bengal from January 2014 to December 2015, encompassing the various seasons. Tissue samples were collected for confirmation by biochemical studies and their prevalence and degree of infection and histopathology was conducted. Results: A total of 197 fishes having haemorrhage like infections in skin and viscera were confirmed for mycobacteria by biochemical analysis, with prevalence of 22.6%. Post-winter season showed higher prevalence (47.97%) followed by winter (35.25%), pre-winter (27.81%), summer (12.5%) and rainy season (2.57%) respectively. Histopathological assessment showed necrotic granuloma in skin, gills and some internal tissues. Ziehl-Neelsen staining of infected tissue samples showed the deposition of acid fast organisms causing swelling and haemorrhages in the tissues. Severity of infection was evaluated by mean cumulative granuloma score (7.89) score. Majority of the acid fast bacilli were recovered from skin, gills and other organs. Biochemical assessment of the acid fast rods confirmed the presence of Mycobacterium spp. Conclusions: The result suggests that the nontuberculous mycobacterial species are responsible for the granulomatous infection in P. argenteus. This infection seems to be influenced by environmental temperature, with the lower temperature favoring the pathogens.

775-778

Authors: Tutik Murniasih, Eka Ayu Indriany, Masteri Yunovilsa Putra, Febriana Untari

Objective: To find a potent antibiotic producer from the sponge-associated bacteria as well as to profile the important substances. Methods: Sponge collection, bacteria isolation, extraction and characterization of potent active compounds were carried out for this study. Results: Approximately 59 single strains of bacteria were isolated from this sponge. Totally 40 strains showed activity against Escerichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus and Vibrio eltor. The chemical separation of the potent strain Bacterium sp. Lb.10%.2.1.1.b, using n-phase column chromatography revealed 7 active fractions (7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 14 and 15). The gas chromatography-mass spectrometer analysis of Fraction 7 indicated some phenolic compounds including 4-nonylphenol, methyl 3-(3,5-di-tert-butyl-4-hydroxyphenyl)propionate, acetosyringone, 2,4-bis(1-phenylethyl)phenol, 1,2-benzenedicarboxylic acid, mono(2- ethylhexyl) ester, tri(2-ethylhexyl) trimellitate and oleamide. Conclusions: Indeed, this is a preliminary information in profiling chemical substances, produced by Bacterium sp. Lb.10%.2.1.1.b. Further purification and structural chemical determination were needed to find a comprehensive result.

784-790

Authors: Oludele Olanlokun, Moses David, Tolulope Ilori, Victoria Abe

Objective: To assess the in vivo antimalarial potential of various solvent extracts and fractions of Trema orientalis. Methods: In this study, the animal model of antimalarial activity was employed using Plasmodium berghei-induced mice. The crude methanol extract was fractionated using vacuum liquid chromatography in the order of increasing polarity using dichloromethane, ethylacetate and methanol. Percentages of parasitemia and clearance were used as indices for antiplasmodial activities. The full blood count was also assayed while the gas chromatographymass spectrometer analysis of the most potent fraction was carried out to detect the active compounds presenting in it. Results: Dichloromethane fraction had the least percentage of parasitemia [(0.19 ± 0.07)%] and the highest percentage of clearance [(91.74 ± 8.38)%] at the highest dose used (200 mg/kg body weight) after day 7 relative to the artemisinin control which cleared the parasite after day 3. The ethylacetate fraction showed the least percentage of clearance [(70.52 ± 5.64)%] at the highest dose used (200 mg/kg body weight) after day 7. Conclusions: The results obtained showed that purification enhanced the antiplasmodial activity of Trema orientalis in Plasmodium berghei-induced malaria in mice. The antiplasmodial activity of the dichloromethane is a strong indication that the fraction, if purified further, may contain drug candidates for the treatment of malaria in the nearest future.

795-801

Authors: Marimuthu Kannadasana, Ganesan Sumathy, Palanivel Thirusangu Sangeetha, Chidambaram Saravanababu, Kathirvelu Baskar

Objective: To determine the effect of phytochemicals in acute and repeated dose of 28-day oral toxicity of Kuruthi Azhal Chooranam (KAC) in Sprague Dawley rats of both sexes. Methods: Acute oral toxicity was conducted with 2000 mg/kg body weight of KAC orally and the treated animals were observed for signs of toxicity at 30 min, 1, 2, 4 and 24 h and for up to 14 days. In repeated 28-day oral toxicity study, the KAC formulation was administered orally with 600, 900 and 1200 mg/kg body weight/day to all the three groups of rats. The animals were observed for clinical signs of toxicity, mortality and morbidity throughout the study. Also body weight, feed consumption, haematological, plasma biochemistry and serum electrolytes, gross pathology, weights of the organ and histology were studied for no-observed-adverseeffect level. High dose of KAC formulation and control reversal groups were also included for delayed toxic effects determination. Results: In the acute toxicity study of KAC formulation, 2 000 mg/kg body weight dose exhibited no toxic signs and mortality during study. In sub-acute 28-day repeated dose toxicity study, there was no significant difference found between control and KAC treated groups (body weight, haematology, biochemistry and serum electrolytes). No abnormalities was found in gross pathology, organs weight and histological observation after KAC treatment. Conclusions: The current study suggests that LD50 of KAC was > 2 000 mg/kg and noobserved-adverse-effect level was > 1 200 mg/kg/day in rats. KAC could be used as Siddha drug for various indications.

809-812

Authors: Mohammahd Salehi, Mahtab Vafaei, Abdolmajid Ghasemian, Seyyed Khalil Shokouhi Mostafavi

Objective: To detect infectious mononucleosis (IM) prevalence in Neyshabur, Northeast Iran during 2010–2014. Methods: This cross-sectional descriptive epidemiological survey was performed to reveal the prevalence of IM in Neyshabur between 2010 and 2014. A total of 114 individuals were studied. Briefly, individuals with positive test for specific immunoglobulin G and immunoglobulin M in the agglutination test were determined as positive cases. Results: The overall prevalence of IM was 14%. Mean ± SD of age for IM test was 18.96 ± 15.79. The age groups of 0–10 and 21–30 were the most positive cases in this period. In addition, 31–40 and over 50 years were not positive cases. Male individuals were significantly more positive and likewise, it was observed that there were significantly higher positive cases of IM in spring and summer. Conclusions: Among the five years of this study, it was a decreasing status from 2010 (23.1%) to 2014 (9.1%), though a slight fluctuation had occurred. The prevalence of IM was low in Neyshabur City. Moreover, children and male individuals had relatively higher prevalence of the disease. Furthermore, it was observed a higher rate of IM in spring and summer.

816-823

Authors: Hoang Do Huu

Although long history application in infant formula, dietary nucleotide supplementation has been used only recently in the evaluation of growth performance, stress and pathogen resistance in aquaculture species. This paper addresses the present knowledge of the use of nucleotide supplemented in the diet for culture species. Research reveals that dietary nucleotide may have significant impact and is recommended to add to the feed of aquatic species to get better performance. However, more studies should also be conducted to have better understandings on dose requirement, duration of application, impact on different life stage and under different environmental stress and pathogens. Further study should also examine the effects of dietary nucleotide supplementation of intestinal microbiota and gut morphology, and immune response of aquaculture species.

833-837

Authors: Hadi Tavakkoli, Amin Derakhshanfar

Objective: To determine the macroscopic and microscopic lesions of various dosages of gentamicin in the partridge embryo. Methods: Fertile chukar partridge eggs were allocated into four groups. Group 1: salineinjected group whose individuals were administered by sterile physiological saline solution of 0.2 mL/egg inserted into yolk sac. Groups 2, 3 and 4 whose individuals were similarly administered by gentamicin sulfate at a dosage of 80 mg/kg egg-weight once, twice and three times, respectively. Results: Results showed that the embryos were congested and stunted in the gentamicininjected groups. Defects in feet, wings and feather development were accompanied by microscopic lesions in brain, meninges, heart, lungs, liver and kidneys. Histopathological lesions were noticed as edema, undeveloped tissues, necrosis and degeneration in the affected organs. Conclusions: Based on acquired results, it is concluded that gentamicin at above-described dosages causes toxicopathological effects to the partridge embryo in a dose dependent manner.