Asian Pacific Journal of Tropical Biomedicine

255-259

Authors: Alcides Troncoso

Neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) are remediable injustices of our times. Poverty is the starting point, and the ultimate outcome, of NTD. Ebola is just one of many NTDs that badly need attention. Ebola exacerbates West Africa’s poverty crisis. The virus spreading in Guinea, Liberia and Sierra Leone has led to food shortages and neglect of other devastating tropical illnesses. A health crisis that was ignored for months until it was out of control is now beginning to get the attention required, if not the resources. So far, the world´s nations have contributed far less than the $ 1 billion. The U.N. estimates would need to control the epidemic before it becomes endemic. Past outbreaks of Ebola have flared up in remote, forested communities, disconnected from much of the outside world. But the outbreak in West Africa has not slowed yet, and it worsens there the chances of it spreading to other countries. Ebola draws attention to NTD. Ebola is not only a health emergency, but also it´s a poverty crisis. The current Global Ebola crisis presents a multitude of challenges in terms of our capacity to respond; the future is even less predictable. Ebola outbreak represents inequity in health as the occurrence of health differences considered unnecessary, avoidable, unfair, and unjust, thus adding a moral and ethical dimension to health inequalities. Health equity does not refer only to the fairness in the distribution of health or the provision of health care; rather, it is linked with the larger issues of fairness and justice in social arrangements.

268-273

Authors: James David Adams Jr., Xiaogang Wang

Pain is normally treated with oral nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory agents and opioids. These drugs are dangerous and are responsible for many hospitalizations and deaths. It is much safer to use topical preparations made from plants to treat pain, even severe pain. Topical preparations must contain compounds that penetrate the skin, inhibit pain receptors such as transient receptor potential cation channels and cyclooxygenase-2, to relieve pain. Inhibition of pain in the skin disrupts the pain cycle and avoids exposure of internal organs to large amounts of toxic compounds. Use of topical pain relievers has the potential to save many lives, decrease medical costs and improve therapy.

275-276

Authors: Vagish Kumar Laxman Shanbhag

Snake venoms are folk medicines used since ages. The components of snake venoms have high specific affinity and actions on cells and cell components. Also snake venoms are largely cytotoxic to tumor cells than normal cells. In addition to these, they have several therapeutic actions that make them an attractive option in the management of cancer. The advent of modern technologies has greatly helped in extracting and identifying new components of therapeutic interests in short time. The article highlights the importance of snake venoms in the management of cancer, so as to motivate curious researchers to devote their skills in this fascinating area. This in turn may bring hope, smile and relief to several cancer patients in future.

281-286

Authors: Chen-Kai Chang, Shu-Chen Wang, Chih-Kwang Chiu, Shih-Ying Chen, Zong-Tsi Chen, Pin-Der Duh

Objective: To investigate the effect of lactic acid bacteria isolated from fermented mustard on immunopotentiating activity Methods: One hundred and fifty nine strains of lactic acid bacteria isolated from traditional Taiwan fermented mustard were evaluated for their immunopotentiating activity on a murine macrophage cell line RAW 264.7. Results: Of the strains, pronounced increases in the levels of nitric oxide (NO), tumor necrosis factor-α and interleukin-6 were observed in strains B0040, B0110 and B0145. Among them, strain B0145 had the highest NO and tumor necrosis factor-α generation in RAW 264.7 cells; strains B0040 and B0110 were also superior to that of Lactobacillus casei. These results demonstrated that NO and cytokines were effectively induced when the bacterial stimulants were treated with macrophages. In addition, strains B0040 and B0110 were identified as Lactobacillus plantarum, and B0145 as Weissella cibaria using 16S rDNA analysis. Conclusions: The results implicated selected strains may be regarded as a biological response modifier and had a broad application prospects in exploiting new functional food or as a feed additive.

292-299

Authors: Muhammad Shoaib Amjad

Objective: To document the medicinal and other folk uses of native plants of the Bana Valley of district of Kotli-Azad Jammu Kashmir with a view to preserve the ethnobotanical knowledge of this area and to develop an ethnobotanical inventory of the species diversity. Methods: The fieldwork was conducted during a period of one year. Data were collected through semi-structured questionnaire and interview of the informants including indigenous people, tribal people, and traditional health practitioners residing in the study area. Results: The present study documented etnobotanical uses of 86 plant species belonging to 81 genera and 47 families. This study revealed that most of the species were used medicinally (74 spp; 42.29%). Leaves found to be the most frequently used part (56 spp., 36.13%) for preparation of indigenous recipes and fodder purpose. Conclusions: The current research provides a huge lump of ethnobotanical knowledge and depicts strong human-plant interaction. It is an urgent need to document indigenous uses of plants for future domestication.

310-318

Authors: Donald Sédric Tala, Donatien Gatsing, Siméon Pierre Chegaing Fodouop, Charles Fokunang, Fabrice Kengni, Merline Namekong Djimeli

Objective: To investigate the in vivo anti-salmonella activity and the safety of aqueous extract of Euphorbia prostratra (E. prostratra), a plant commonly used in Cameroon by traditional healers. Methods: A Salmonella typhimurium-infected rat model was used for the study. The physiological, biochemical and histopathological markers of possible side effects of this extract were studied using standard methods. Results: The extract had a significant effect on the number of viable Salmonella typhimurium recovered from faeces, and could stop salmonellosis after 8 and 10 days of treatment for male and female rats, respectively, with non-toxic doses. However, the biochemical and histopathological analyses revealed that at relatively high doses (≥ 73.48 mg/kg for female and ≥ 122.71 mg/kg for male) the extract could induce liver damage, as illustrated by a rise of serum transaminases’ levels and significant inflammation of the parenchyma and portal vein. Side effects were also observed on the kidneys, as shown by both serum and urinary creatinine, and urinary proteins. Conclusions: The overall results indicate that the aqueous extract of E. prostrata has the potential to provide an effective treatment for salmonellosis, including typhoid fever. However, it is necessary to extrapolate these results in large animals, in further studies.

324-330

Authors: Omnia Mohamed Kandil, Somia Ayesh Nassar, Soad Mohamed Nasr, Hatem Abdel Mawgoud Shalaby, Seham Hendawy, Faragalla Mohamed El Moghazy

Objective: To evaluate the synergetic effect of an ethanolic extract of Egyptian propolis in immunization of BALB/c mice with Taenia saginata (T. saginata) crude antigen against bovine cysticercosis, with reference to its effects on liver and kidney functions. Methods: Sixty female mice BALB/c strain weighing 20 to 25 g and 6-8 weeks old were randomly allocated into six groups of ten mice each. Mice in groups 1 and 2 (G1 and G2) were immunized intraperitoneally with 100 μg of T. saginata crude antigen in 100 μL phosphate buffer saline emulsified in Freund’s adjuvant. Besides, the mice in G2 were administered with propolis extract simultaneously with immunization. Control mice were either administered with propolis extract (G3) or injected with the same volume of phosphate buffer saline emulsified in Freund’s adjuvant (G4). The mice in G5 were non-immunized infected control while, those in G6 were non-immunized non-infected control. Two weeks after the last immunization, each mouse was challenged intraperitoneally with 5 000 oncospheres except those of G6. Ethanolic extract of propolis was prepared at a dose 50 mg/kg body weight. Results: After 24 weeks of challenge, the mice in G2 showed the highest level of protection (100%), with no cyst being detected rather than mice in G1 (33.3% protection). Additionally, the ELISA results, in this study, showed higher antibody titer in G2 with reduction the alteration in liver and kidney functions compared to G1. Conclusions: Egyptian propolis could increase the level of protection against experimental challenge infection with T. saginata eggs when administered simultaneously with immunization. Furthermore, it could enhance the production of antibodies to immunized antigen and decrease the alteration in liver and kidney functions.

170-181

Authors: Tahmineh Akbarzadeh, Reyhaneh Sabourian, Mina Saeedi, Hossein Rezaeizadeh, Mahnaz Khanavi, Mohammad Reza Shams Ardekani

Considering the fact that liver is one of the most important organs in our body, it deserves special attention and protection. Among various recommended supplements, complementary and alternative medicines particularly herbal remedies have received much attention owing to their truly healing properties. This review profits from Iranian traditional medicine and presents advantageous herbal guide directions for liver protection. According to credible Iranian medical literature such as Al Qanun Fil Tibb, Al-Havi and Makhzan-al-Aadvia, a wide spectrum of plants have been found to be useful for cleansing and protecting the liver. Some herbs such as ghafes (Agrimonia eupatoria), kasni (Cichorium intybus), anar (Punica granatum), darchin (Cinnamomum zeylanicum), za’feran (Crocus sativus), gole-sorkh (Rosa damascena) and zereshk (Berberis vulgaris) appeared to get strong consideration and were well documented as outstanding liver tonics. We conducted a comprehensive review of available Iranian medical resources such as scientific information database and medical sciences databases which cover all in vitro and in vivo studies of medicinal plants as liver tonics and hepatoprotective candidates. Literature survey was accomplished using multiple databases including PubMed, ISI web of knowledge, and Google Scholar.

190-191

Authors: Sadia Ashraf, Aftab Ahmad

Hepatitis B and C are big health issues worldwide as more than 400 million people are suffering from chronic hepatitis B and C which result in more than 1.4 million deaths each year. According to a study done by Pakistan Medical Research Council in 2007-08, 7.6% Pakistani population suffered with hepatitis B and C, with around 4.8% with hepatitis C only. Government of Pakistan has taken different initiatives like vaccination, patient safety, blood screening, education and awareness about disease but still there is high prevalence of hepatitis in Pakistan. According to some studies injecting drug users have the highest prevalence of hepatitis B and C in the country. The follow-up studies and documentation of hepatitis patients was not very good which need to be improved. There is no recent large scale study on risk factors and prevalence of hepatitis B and C in Pakistan so it should be done on an urgent basis. If government set up regional laboratories for prevalence study and also a central institute for hepatitis research and treatment, the disease could be prevented in better and proper way. The treatment of hepatitis is very costly and a developing country like Pakistan cannot afford such high costs. Therefore more focus should be on preventive measures.

196-201

Authors: Davies Olabisi Flora, Adeleye Isaac Adeyemi, Wang Peng George

Objective: To isolate and screen Actinomycetes from Lagos Lagoon soil sediments for production of bioactive metabolites. Methods: Sediment samples were collected from four different locations of Lagos Lagoon and were dried for 2 weeks after which the Actinomycetes were isolated by serial dilution using the spread plate method on starch casein and Kuster’s agar supplemented with 80 μg/ mL cycloheximide to prevent fungal growth. The plates were incubated at 28 °C for 1-2 weeks. Isolates were selected based on their colonial characteristics as well as their Gram’s reaction and subcultured using the same media for isolation until pure cultures were obtained and incubated at 28 °C for 3 d. Thereafter, they were inoculated into starch casein and Kuster’s broth media and incubated for 8 d. The secondary metabolites were screened for antimicrobial activity against the following microorganisms: methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 29213, Escherichia coli ATCC 29522, Pseudomonas aeruginosa ATCC 27853, Candida albicans and Enterococcus faecalis ATCC 29212. Coagulasenegative staphylococci isolated from HIV patients were also used (Staphylococcus warneri, Staphylococcus xylosus and Staphylococcus epidermidis). The antimicrobial metabolites of the Actinomycetes isolates were identified using gas chromatography (GC). Results: Crude extracts of isolates showed antimicrobial activity against some of the test organisms. The GC data analysis showed the antibiotic profile of these isolates. Conclusions: Analysis of the crude extracts of the isolates using GC method, revealed the presence of antibiotics including an anticholinergic hyoscyamine among other conclusions.

208-220

Authors: Addimas Tajebe, Mulugeta Aemero, Kimani Francis, Gabriel Magoma

Objective: To identify prevalence of chloroquine resistance point mutation at (Pfcrt, K76T) and (Pfmdr1, N86Y) copy number variation. Methods: SYBR Green I based real time PCR was used. One hundred and thirty-three samples were analyzed for (Pfcrt, K76T) and (Pfmdr1,N86Y) copy number from dried blood spot. Parasite DNA was extracted using high pure DNA preparation kit. The amplification of DNA was done by using AccuPower 2× GreenStarTM qPCR Master mix. For quantification purpose a new primer pair was designed for 178 base pair template from complete genome sequence of Plasmodium falciparum strain 3D7 at NCBI. Absolute quantification method was used to determine the Pfmdr1-N86Y copy number variations. Standard curve was built from strain 3D7 gDNA since it has single copy of Pfmdr1 per haploid genome. The known positive controls with single and multi-copy number of Pfmdr1 gene were included in each experiment. The copy number ratio of the samples to the standard calibrator was made to obtain the fold difference among the samples with respect to copy number variation. Results: Out of 133 samples 73 (54.89%) were confirmed as mutant (Pfcrt, 76T) and the remaining 60 (45.11%) were genotyped as wild type (Pfcrt, K76). The (Pfmdr1, N86Y) copy number variation was determined for 133 clinical samples. Out of these samples 61 (45.86%) had single copy and the remaining 72 (54.14%) had multi-copy numbers higher than 1.5 copies per genome. Thirty-four (25.56%) multi-copies were between 1.5 and 2.5 copies per genome while 38 (28.57%) were more than 2.5 copies per genome. The minimum and maximum copies per genome were 0.474 and 4.741, respectively. Conclusions: The study showed high prevalence level and fixation of Pfcrt, 76T mutation after chloroquine withdrawal. The prevalence of Pfmdr1 copy number variant suggested that the presence of modulating factor for emergence of Plasmodium falciparum strains with higher copy numbers. However, the prevalence level was not statistically significant.

228-233

Authors: Naima Chahmi, Jaouad Anissi, Sanae Jennan, Abdellah Farah, Khalid Sendide, Mohammed El Hassouni

Objective: To investigate antioxidant activity, total phenolic and flavonoid content of ethanol (E) and ethyl acetate (A) extracts of Inula viscosa aerial parts selected from three regions of Morocco (Imouzzer, Sefrou and Taounate). Methods: Antioxidants properties were measured by three different test systems of assay namely free radical scavenging activities against 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl, total antioxidant capacity and iron-reducing capacity. Total phenolic content was measured by Folin- Ciocalteu reagent. Results: All the extracts showed significant antioxidant activities and contained important levels of phenols. The ethanol extract (0.3 mg/mL) from Sefrou showed the greatest antioxidant capacity in the three systems of assay, which was probably due to its high content of polyphenols (274.39±6.94) mg gallic acid equivalent/g dry extract. Total flavonoid content was found equal for all extracts. Conclusions: Our results of antioxidant assays were justified and partially supported the popular usage of the tested plants. The high antioxidant activity found in the plant from Sefrou and its great biomass in this region suggested that Inula viscosa is a good source of natural antioxidants compounds which might have benefits for health.

242-248

Authors: Kiessoun Konaté, Kassi Yomalan, Oksana Sytar, Marian Brestic

Objective: To evaluate anti-diarrhoeal and antimicrobial activities of the bioactive fraction of Trichilia emetica in order to provide a scientific basis for the management of gastroenteritis in Burkina Faso. Methods: To do this, polyphenols content of extract and fractions were investigated. Folin- Ciocalteu, AlCl3 methods and tannic acid respectively were used for polyphenols content. The in vivo antidiarrhoeal activity was done using Swiss albino mice of both sexes. In vitro antimicrobial activity (disc-diffusion assay, minimum inhibitory concentration and minimum microbicidal concentration or minimal bactericidal concentration) was assessed using seven bacteria strains (Gram-negative and Gram-positive). Results: About our study, it was found that ethyl acetate fraction effective attenuation factior (EAF) elicits the higher total phenolics and total flavonoids contents compared to the extracts of leaves of Trichilia emetica. EAF of Trichilia emetica Vahl., has positive effects in a dose dependent manner against diarrhoea induced by castor oil in experimental mice. The bioactive fraction also showed good antimicrobial activity against all tested Gram-negative and Grampositive bacteria strains. It was shown that experimental bacteria strains were more sensitive to the EAF effect compared to the ciprofloxacin. Conclusions: The obtained results allow justifying the traditional uses of Trichilia emetica and possess good antidiarrhoeal and antimicrobial activities of EAF from Trichilia emetica. Results of the present study have clearly supported the utilization of Trichilia emetica in Burkina Faso traditional medicine.

87-92

Authors: Deepak Bhatia, Animesh Mandal, Eviatar Nevo, Anupam Bishayee

Objective: To investigat the mechanism of antitumor efficacy of Origanum dayi (O. dayi) and Ochradenus baccatus (O. baccatus) extracts by exploring apoptosis-inducing potential. Methods: The aqueous extracts of aerial parts of aforementioned plants were prepared and used for this study. HepG2 cells were treated with varying concentrations (0, 2 and 5 mg/mL) of each plant extract for 24 or 48 h. Cell apoptosis was measured by annexin V-fluorescein isothiocyanate binding assay and flow cytometry. The expression levels of various apoptosisrelated genes were determined by semi-quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction. Results: O. dayi and O. baccatus extracts exerted apoptotic effects on HepG2 cells for 48 h following treatment. O. dayi extract was found to be a better apoptosis-inducing agent than O. baccatus extract as the former delivered greater efficacy at a lower concentration. Both extracts manifested upregulation of Bax, Bad, cytochrome c, caspase-3, caspase-7, caspase-9 and poly (adenosine diphosphate-ribose) polymerase. Conclusions: The aqueous extracts of O. dayi and O. baccatus are capable of inducing apoptosis in HepG2 cells through modulation of mitochondrial pathway which explains their antitumor activities. These desert plants may serve as useful resources to develop effective remedies for hepatocellular carcinoma and other human malignancies.

101-107

Authors: Aftab Ahmad, Asif Husain, Mohd Mujeeb, Shah Alam Khan, Hani Abdullah Anber Alhadrami, Anil Bhandari

Objective: To carry out the physicochemical and phytochemical standardization with high performance thin layer chromatography fingerprinting of Piper nigrum L. (P. nigrum) fruits in order to ascertain the standard pharmacognostical parameters of this king of spices. Methods: Many standardization parameters like extractive values, total ash value, water soluble ash value and acid insoluble ash, moisture content, loss on drying and pH values of P. nigrum L. fruits were analyzed. The method of Harborne was adopted for the preliminary phytochemicals screening. Analysis of total phenolic and flavonoid contents, pesticides residues, aflatoxin and heavy metals were also performed. CAMAG-high performance thin layer chromatography system was used for fingerprinting of methanolic extract of P. nigrum L. fruits. Results: The results of phytochemicals testing indicated the presence of carbohydrates, phenolic compounds, flavonoids, alkaloids, proteins, saponins, lipids, sterols and tannins in various solvent extracts. Total phenolic and flavonoid contents in methanolic extract were found to be 1.728 1 mg/g and 1.087 μg/g, respectively. Heavy metals concentrations were found to be within standard limits. Aflatoxins and pesticides residues were absent. Conclusions: The outcome of this study might prove beneficial in herbal industries for identification, purification and standardization of P. nigrum L. fruits.

113-123

Authors: Arun Kumar

Objective: To study the differences between the lipid profiles of the subjects whose parents are having known non-modifiable risk factors such as obesity, hypertension (HTN), myocardial infarction and diabetes, and compare them with the lipid profiles of the subjects whose parents are not having those risk factors. Methods: A total of 402 subjects were recruited to this study. A detailed questionnaire which included information on the past medical history, height, weight, blood pressure, physical activity, smoke, alcohol, family history of coronary heart disease, HTN, diabetics and obesity. Basic demographic data and dietary habits were completed by all participants. Blood samples were obtained from all subjects after 14 h. Lipid profiles were analyzed using automated analyzer. The results were analyzed using SPSS software packages. Results: The mean body mass index of the population was well below the cut-off value of obesity (>24.5 kg/m2) and high risk of future cardiovascular disorder (CVD) events in this age group. The mean levels of total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG) and TC/high density lipoprotein (HDL) were less than the risk levels indicative of future CVD events according to the ATP III cut-off values. However the mean HDL level in our population was slightly greater than the cut-off value while the mean low density lipoprotein level was almost similar to the risk level. Differences were observed when the subjects without history of maternal obesity were compared with subjects with history of maternal obesity. The greater percentage of subjects who are having risk levels of body mass index, TC, low density lipoprotein, TG, and TC/HDL indicated that maternal obesity contributed to the greater susceptibility of developing CVD risk in their offspring. Conclusions: Advancing age may result in changes that could be atherogenic in the future. Such atherogenic changes have already initiated when the subjects are about 21 years old. The incidence of atherogenic changes is far greater when mothers who are having any of the risk factors such as obesity, diabetes, HTN and myocardial infarction than that fathers who are having similar risk factors.

128-131

Authors: Ebrahim Rahimi, Zahra Sadat Afzali, Zeinab Torki Baghbadorani

Objective: To determine the prevalence and antimicrobial resistance of Clostridium difficile (C. difficile) isolated from ready-to-eat foods of Iran. Methods: From January to August 2013, a total of 368 unpacked ready-to-eat food samples were purchased from randomly selected supermarkets, retail stores and restaurants located in Isfahan and Shahrekord, Iran and were evaluated for the presence of C. difficile. Results: C. difficile spores were detected in 5 (1.36%) of the 368 samples. The highest prevalence of C. difficile was found in fasl salad (4.29%), followed by yogurt stew (2%), and olovyeh salad (0.93%). All 140 maccaroni salad and falafel sandwich samples were negative for C. difficile. One of the five C. difficile isolates (20%) contained tcdA, tcdB and cdtB toxin genes and four strains (80%) contained tcdA, and tcdB toxin genes. Also, among the five C. difficile isolates, only three strains were found to be toxigenic for toxin A and/or B by ELISA. Isolates were susceptible to vancomycin and metronidazole, but variably resistant to other antimicrobial drugs. Conclusions: This study, combined with studies on other food sources, suggests that widespread contamination of food is common.

138-145

Authors: Yuan Zhang, Ting-Ting Jia, Yang Pan, Wen-Li Li, Yu Sun, Jin-Ming Li, Lu-Nan Wang

Objective: To investigate the potential role of human cytomegalovirus lower matrix phosphoprotein 65 (HCMV-pp65) in murine systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Methods: The prokaryotic plasmid pET-28b-pp65 was constructed to express the HCMVpp65 protein. BXSB mice and C57BL/6 mice were inoculated with pp65 eukaryotic plasmid pcDNA3.0-pp65 intramuscularly 5 times at 2-week intervals, and then the blood of the mice was subsequently collected via the retro-orbital vein. Indirect ELISAs were used to evaluate the concentration of anti-pp65 immunoglobulin G, anti-double-stranded DNA and antinuclear antibodies. Interleukin-1β and tumor necrosis factor-α were also determined by competitive ELISA. At the same time, 3 major SLE-related circulating microRNAs were examined by quantitative RT-PCR. Results: The early production of autoantibodies was observed in pp65-immunized male BXSB as well as C57BL/6 mice. Overexpression of interleukin-1β and tumor necrosis factor-α were detected in pp65-immunized male BXSB mice. Quantitative RT-PCR analyses showed that three SLE related microRNAs (microRNA-126, microRNA-125a, and microRNA-146a) were downregulated in peripheral blood mononuclear cells of pp65-immunized mice. Conclusions: Our findings indicate that HCMV-pp65 immunization strongly triggers the development and progression of SLE-like disease in both BXSB and C57BL/6 mice, which indicates that the immune responses induced by HCMV-pp65 may be involved in the development of SLE.

158-161

Authors: Mohamed Ata Hendaus, Rasha Muneer Qaqish, Ahmed Hassan Alhammadi

Neurobrucellosis is a complication of brucellosis, which is considered endemic in the Indian subcontinent, Arabian Peninsula and Mediterranean countries. Brucella reaches the central nervous system via hematogenous spread in the infected human being, or through phagocytosis. Neurobrucellosis can present with any neurological symptoms, hence, the index of suspicion must be high enough to make proper diagnosis. Cerebrospinal fluid studies are usually diagnostic, while imagings including magnetic resonance imaging and computed tomography are of little assistance. As for therapy, a combination of antibiotics must be administered with a goal to reduce relapse or avoid failure. The duration of treatment should be tailored as per clinical signs and symptoms until the cerebrospinal fluid components return to normal, which might be up to six months. In this article, we present an overall view of current understanding of neurobrucellosis in children, its epidemiology, clinical features, diagnostic tests, and management options.

168

Authors: Kaviarasan T, Siva Sankar R, Yogamoorthi A

No

3-9

Authors: Nikhil Menon, Jean Sparks, Felix Omoruyi

Objective: To evaluate the hypoglycemic and hypocholesterolemic activities of the aqueous preparation of Kalanchoe pinnata (K. pinnata) leaves in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. Methods: Diabetes mellitus was induced in rats by a single administration of streptozotocin (60 mg/Kg). Diabetic rats were then treated with aqueous K. pinnata for 30 d. Serum glucose, proteins, lipid composition, liver and kidney function indices, inflammatory markers, and key enzymes of hepatic carbohydrate and lipid metabolism were determined. Results: The untreated and treated diabetic groups lost weight and consumed less food compared to the normal group. We noted 37.9% decrease in fasting blood glucose in the treated diabetic group compared to 13.2% and 17.0% increases in normal and untreated diabetic groups respectively. Serum cholesterol and triglyceride levels were significantly (P<0.05) reduced in the treated diabetic group compared to the untreated diabetic group. Blood urea nitrogen was significantly (P<0.05) elevated in the untreated and treated diabetic groups compared to the normal group. Serum alkaline phosphatase and hepatic pyruvate kinase activities were significantly (P<0.05) elevated in the treated diabetic group. Serum albumin level was significantly (P<0.05) reduced in the untreated diabetic group. Serum IL-6 was significantly (P<0.05) depressed in the treated diabetic group. Conclusions: The observed decrease in body weight, blood glucose and cholesterol level suggests that the aqueous K. pinnata preparation consumption may be beneficial in the management of diabetes mellitus. The observed adverse effect on alkaline phosphatase activity may be due to the combined effect of streptozotocin-induced diabetes and K. pinnata preparation administration.

15-18

Authors: Bekesho Geleta, Mebrahtu Eyasu, Selamu Kebamo, Asfaw Debella, Eyasu Makonnen, Abiy Abebe

Objective: To investigate the vasodilatory effect of Thymus serrulatus (T. serrulatus) aqueous leaf extract on KCl (high K+, 80 mmol/L) induced precontracted isolated thoracic aorta rings on guinea pigs and the role of aorta endothelium on this action. Methods: Guinea pig thoracic aorta was removed and placed in an organ bath containing Krebs-Henseleit solution and aorta contractions were recorded isometrically. Results: The results revealed that T. serrulatus aqueous leaf extract (0.5-5 mg/mL) significantly (P<0.001) reduced KCl-induced contractions of guinea pig thoracic aorta in both intact (n=5) and denuded (n=5) endothelium in a concentration dependent manner, and the vasodilatory effect of the extract on intact endothelium was significantly (P<0.05) higher than that on denuded endothelium. Glibenclamide (10 μmol/L) significantly (P<0.001) increased the vasodilatory effect of extract in intact endothelium as compared to methylene blue (10 μmol/L), atropine (10 μmol/L) and indomethacin (10 μmol/L). The effect was more obvious on intact than that on denuded endothelium. Conclusions: The present findings demonstrate that T. serrulatus aqueous leaf extract has vasodilatory activity which might result in antihypertensive effect and its vasodilatory effect is endothelium-dependent. This might support the traditional claim of the plant in hypertensive.

29-33

Authors: Jessa Fidel Montejo, Juan Arturo Burgos Mondonedo, Matthew Genesis Aguila Lee, Michael Bagui Ples, Rodel Jonathan Santos Vitor II

Objective: To analyze the hematological effects of administering Ipomoea batatas (I. batatas) and Phyllanthus niruri (P. niruri) in the ICR mice. Methods: Powdered leaves of I. batatas and P. niruri were fed to mice for 4 weeks. A total of six groups were used to determine the effect of the plants to the complete blood count of the mouse. Group A (blank control) mice were feed with pellets only; Group B (negative control) mice were fed with pellets coated with honey; Group C (low dosage) mice were fed with honey-coated pellets and powdered leaves of I. batatas at 10 g/kg body weight of the mouse; Group D (high dosage) mice were fed with honey-coated pellets and powdered leaves of I. batatas at 20 g/kg body weight of the mouse; Group E (low dosage) mice were fed with honey-coated pellets and powdered leaves of P. niruri at 10 g/kg body weight of the mouse; and Group F (high dosage) mice were fed with honey-coated pellets and powdered leaves of P. niruri at 20 g/kg body weight of the mouse. Complete blood count was performed on Days 0, 14 and 28. Results: It was shown that I. batatas can increase the values of hematocrit and hemoglobin on both the low dose and high dose at Day 28 and red blood cells (RBC) on both Days 14 and 28 of testing. On the other hand, P. niruri can increase RBC, hematocrit and hemoglobin on Day 28 with only the low dose. There were no significant differences with white blood cell, absolute granulocyte, lymphocyte and monocyte, and platelet counts observed for both plant samples. Conclusions: I. batatas and P. niruri have effects on the hematocrit, RBC and hemoglobin levels in mice.

40-43

Authors: Taher Nemati, Majid Khanmohammadi, Ahad Bazmani, Nasrin Mirsamadi, Mohammad Hassan Kohansal Koshki, Mehdi Mohebali, Mohammad Fatollahzadeh, Esmail Fallah

Objective: To study Leishmania infection in cats and its potential role in transmission of the disease to human by parasitological, serological and molecular methods in Ahar District, East Azerbaijan Province. Methods: In this study, 65 cats from different parts of Ahar Province were trapped. The cats were anesthetized with chloroform and blood samples were taken from jugular vein and tested by direct agglutination test. Spleen and liver smear samples were prepared in order to microscopically examine these organs, and also cultured in Novy-MacNeal-Nicolle and Roswell Park Memorial Institute 1 640 media. Finally, spleen tissue DNA was extracted to perform polymerase chain reaction analysis. Results: In direct agglutination test, 4 (6%) cats had a positive titer, while 14 (22%) cats had a titer of 1:80 which was suspected for an infection and 47 (72%) cats were negative. Culture results were negative and in polymerase chain reaction no amplification was observed. Conclusions: We found no case of feline visceral leishmaniasis. It needs more extensive studies by using a larger number of cats to firmly establish leishmaniasis in this area.

48-53

Authors: Nurul Hikmah Harun, Abdi Wira Septama, Ibrahim Jantan

Objective: To investigate the effects of 20 methanolic extracts from Malaysian selected plants on CD18/11a expression and phagocytosis activity of leukocytes using flow cytometry analysis. Methods: The effects of methanolic extracts on CD18/11a expression and phagocytosis of leukocytes were measured by labelling the cells with CD18-fluorescein isothiocyanate and ingestion labelled with Escherichia coli-fluorescein isothiocyanate and then analyzed using flow cytometer. Results: About 12 out of 20 methanolic extracts of selected Malaysian medicinal plants significantly (P≤0.05) inhibited the CD18/11a expression of leukocytes at both concentrations of 6.25 μg/mL and 100 μg/mL in dose dependent manner. The most active inhibitory was shown in Citrus aurantifolia (Christm.) Swingle and Alpinia galangal (L.) Willd. at dosage 100 μg/mL. Moreover, the Orthosiphon aristatus (Blume) Miq (O. aristatus). showed the highest stimulatory activity at the concentration of 100 μg/mL. Other than that, four plant extracts significantly (P≤0.05) rose the phagocytosis activities of leukocytes in dose dependent manner. However, Annona muricata L. and O. aristatus showed the highest stimulated activities at the 100 μg/mL concentration. Conclusions: The results suggest that methanolic extracts of Citrus aurantifolia, Alpinia galangal, O. aristatus and Annona muricata are able to modulate innate immune system and can potentially be recognized as therapeutic agents for modulating immune system.

60-67

Authors: Khaled Mohamed Mohamed Koriem

Anisi aetheroleum is the oil obtained from Pimpinella anisum L. (P. anisum) by steam distillation. P. anisum seeds were air-dried, and then the dry seeds were crushed, pulverized, and weighed in sequence for anise oil preparation. P. anisum is one of the oldest medicinal plants that belong to family Apiaceae. The fruit of P. anisum is harvested in August and September. P. anisum is widespread in Asia, Africa and Europe. Local names of P. anisum include anise, anisoon, roomy, saunf, sweet cumin and yansoon. The anise oil odour is aromatic while the oil tastes sweet. The average daily dose of Anisi aetheroleum is 0.3 g. trans- Anethole is the major ingredient of the anise oil. Anisi aetheroleum also displays a protective action against neurotoxicity. In addition, Anisi aetheroleum increases glucose absorption and reduces urine output in the rat. The plant oil have pharmacological (antimicrobial, hepatoprotective, anticonvulsant, anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, bronchodilator, estrogenic, expectorant and insecticidal) effects and clinical effects on nausea, constipation, menopausal period, virus, diabetes, obesity and sedative action. Owing to the wide application of Anisi aetheroleum in pharmacological and clinical fields, it is recommended for more clinical trails to discover a new medication from the active constituents of the plant oil in the future to treat human diseases especially chronic ones.

79-84

Authors: Jitin Rahul, Manish Kumar Jain, Shishu Pal Singh, Rakesh Kant Kamal, Anuradha, Aliya Naz, Anup Kumar Gupta, Sujeet Kumar Mrityunjay

Adansonia digitata L. (Malvaceae) is commonly known as baobab tree native to Africa. Baobab is a multi-purpose tree which offers protection and provides food, clothing and medicine as well as raw material for many useful items. The fruit pulp, seeds, leaves, flowers, roots, and bark of baobab are edible and they have been studied by scientists for their useful properties. The fruit pulp have very high vitamin C, calcium, phosphorus, carbohydrates, fibers, potassium, proteins and lipids content, which can be used in seasoning as an appetizer and also make juices. Seeds contain appreciable quantities of phosphorus, magnesium, zinc, sodium, iron, manganese, whereas they have high levels of lysine, thiamine, calcium and iron. Baobab has numerous biological properties including antimicrobial, anti-malarial, diarrhoea, anaemia, asthma, antiviral, anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory activities amongst others. Phytochemical investigation revealed the presence of flavonoids, phytosterols, amino acids, fatty acids, vitamins and minerals. The review summarizes the information on various aspects of traditional information, taxonomic description, medicinal properties and importantly nutritional value.

928-936

Authors: Yitades Gebre, Teshome Gebre, Abena Peters

The Ebola virus was identified in the year 1976 and has caused periodic outbreaks in West African countries. The disease has a case fatality rate up to 90%. Ebola has been classified as a biosafety level four pathogen and there is no currently approved vaccine or treatment for the virus. However, remarkable progress has been demonstrated by researchers in understanding the pathogenicity of the Ebola virus. Several animal models have been cultivated to develop diagnostics, vaccines and therapeutic drugs.

938

Authors: Sora Yasri, Viroj Wiwanitkit

No.

941-946

Authors: Isaac Kingsley Amponsah, Abraham Yeboah Mensah, Antonia Otoo, Merlin Lincoln Kwao Mensah, Jato Jonathan

Objective: To establish the pharmacognostic characters for the correct identification and quality control of Hilleria latifolia (H. latifolia), an important herb in Ghanaian folklore medicine, for the treatment of infections, pain and inflammation. Methods: The macro-morphological, qualitative and quantitative microscopic features, physicochemical and phytochemical features of the medicinally used parts of H. latifolia were evaluated using standard methods. Results: The plant has simple, alternate leaves with entire margin. The lamina is ovate to broadly lanceolate with an acuminate apex. It is hypostomatic with anomocytic stomata. The plant contains abundant prismatic crystals in all parts. Starch grains abound in the roots. The quantitative indices of the leaf and physicochemical parameters have also been established. Conclusions: The pharmacognostic features established in this study may be used as part of the pharmacopoeial standard for the correct identification and quality control of H. latifolia.

952-958

Authors: Muhammad Shoaib Amjad, Muhammad Arshad

Objective: To document ethnobotanical informations of useful woody plant species in the region of Kotli, Azad Kashmir. Methods: An ethnobotanical survey was conducted in Kotli. Data were collected by interview and semi structured questionnaire from selected local informants and traditional practitioners as well as by field assessment. Results: The present study documented the etnobotanical uses of 33 woody plant species. Most of the species have been used for dual purpose. Only 5 species are used for one purpose. Study revealed all species have medicinal value, among which 21 were used as fuel wood species, 16 as fodder species, 4 as timber wood species, 12 as edible fruit species, 6 as fence or hedge plant, 7 as ornamental species and 12 species had other uses. Conclusions: Medicinal plants are still widely used for health care by locals of Kotli. Some species of woodlands seem to be vulnerable to overcollection and deforestation. As the young generation is diverted toward allelopathic medicines, ethnobotanical knowledges of important medicinal plants are restricted to the old people only. It is suggested to close the forest of district Kotli for next two to three decades for the conservation of plant biodiversity.

964-970

Authors: Mooza Al-Owaisi, Nora Al-Hadiwi, Shah Alam Khan

Objective: To perform phytochemical screening, estimate total phenolics, flavonoids and to evaluate antioxidant potential of Moringa peregrina (M. peregrina) leaves. Methods: The dried powdered leaves of M. peregrina (150 g) were extracted exhaustively by Soxhlet with ethanol and then fractionated into hexane, chloroform, ethy alacetate and methanol. All the prepared extracts were also analyzed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry to identify and characterize the chemical compounds present in the crude extracts. Folin- Ciocalteu reagent and aluminium chloride colorimetric methods were used to estimate total phenolic and flavonoid content of extracts. Hydrogen peroxide and 1,1 diphenyl -2-picrylhydrazyl were used to determine in vitro antioxidant activity. Results: Phytochemical analysis of ethanol extract showed presence of major classes of phytochemicals. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry results revealed presence of 19 phytoconstituents in hexane extract, 6 in ethyl acetate and 7 compounds in methanolic extract. Methanol extract was found to contain the highest phenolic content and flavonoids. In vitro antioxidant activities of all crude extracts were significant and comparable with the standard ascorbic acid. Conclusions: Results of this study show that the leaves of M. peregrina are the rich source of phenolic compounds that can play an important role in preventing the progression of many diseases.

977-981

Authors: Hai-Feng Yuan, Xiao-Lin Niu, Deng-Feng Gao, Guang-Hua Hao, An-Qi Song, Jin Wei

Objective: To investigate the expression of phosphorylated peroxisome proliferators-activated receptor γ (p-PPARγ) in the aging thoracic aorta of spontaneously hypertensive rat (SHR) and the inhibitory effect of rosiglitazone on the phosphorylation of PPARγ. Methods: 16, 32 and 64 week-old Wistar-Kyoto rats (WKY) and SHR were randomly and respectively divided into WKY, SHR and SHR+rosiglitazone group (9 in each group). The rats in SHR+rosiglitazone group were treated with rosiglitazone (5 mg/kg, intragastrically) for 56 d, whereas normal saline was applied in WKY and SHR groups. Systolic blood pressure (SBP) of rats was measured by tail cuff method. Histopathological damage of thoracic aorta was analyzed using Hematoxylin-Eosin (HE) staining. Immunohistochemical staining and western blot were performed to test the level of p-PPARγ protein in the thoracic aorta arising from each group. Results: The SBP in 16, 32 and 64 week-old SHR were significantly higher as compared with those in matched WKY rats (P<0.05, respectively). HE staining showed increased content of smooth muscle cell, wrinkled lining endothelium and increased thickness of internal elastic lamina in the thoracic aorta of SHR. Immunohistochemical staining and western blot indicated that the levels of p-PPARγ in the thoracic aorta arising from SHR were obviously higher than those in the thoracic aorta arising from WKY rats (P<0.05, respectively). Importantly, the high SBP, histopathological abnormalities of the thoracic aorta and elevated p-PPARγ expression were prominently abrogated by rosiglitazone treatment in SHR (P<0.05, respectively). Furthermore, the SBP, histopathological abnormalities of the thoracic aorta and p-PPARγ expression were positively correlated with age in SHR (P<0.05, respectively). Conclusions: The PPARγ phosphorylation was observed in the thoracic aorta of SHR and its expression was increased by the increase of age. Furthermore, rosiglitazone inhibited the PPARγ phosphorylation and suppressed vascular aging in SHR.

990-994

Authors: Amir Kamali, Hesam Adin Seifi, Ahmad Reza Movassaghi, Gholam Reza Razmi, Zahra Naseri

Objective: To estimate the extent to which abortion in dairy cows was associated with of Neospora caninum (N. caninum) and to determine the risk factors of neosporosis in dairy farms from 9 provinces in Iran. Methods: Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test was used to detect Neospora infection in the brain of 395 bovine aborted fetuses from 9 provinces of Iran. In addition, the brains of aborted fetuses were taken for histopathological examination. To identify the risk factors associated with neosporosis, data analysis was performed by SAS. Results: N. caninum was detected in 179 (45%) out of 395 fetal brain samples of bovine aborted fetuses using PCR. Among the PCR-positive brain samples, only 56 samples were suited for histopathological examination. The characteristic lesions of Neospora infection including non-suppurative encephalitis were found in 16 (28%) of PCR-positive samples. The risk factors including season, parity of dam, history of bovine virus diarrhea and infectious bovine rhinotracheitis infection in herd, cow’s milk production, herd size and fetal appearance did not show association with the infection. This study showed that Neospora caused abortion was significantly more in the second trimester of pregnancy than other periods. In addition, a significant association was observed between Neospora infection and stillbirth. Conclusions: The results showed N. caninum infection was detected in high percentage of aborted fetuses. In addition, at least one fourth of abortions caused by Neospora infection. These results indicate increasing number of abortions associated with the protozoa more than reported before in Iran.

998-1000

Authors: Loukil Hanen, Snoussi Mouna, Frikha Faten, Ben Salah Raida, Jallouli Moez, Chérif Yosra, El Aoud Sahar, Marzouk Sameh, Bahloul Zouhir

Optic neuritis (ON) may be associated to a range of autoimmune or infectious diseases. We report herein a case of ON induced by Rickettsia conorii. A 53-year-old woman presented with a recent decrease in visual acuity and headache. ON was diagnosed on the basis of ophthalmologic examination and flash visual evoked potentials. Etiological investigation made in our department eliminated first autoimmune disorders (vasculitis and connective tissue diseases). Rickettsial optic neuritis was confirmed by detection of specific antibodies in serum and the negativity of other serologic tests. An association between corticosteroids and cyclines was prescribed with improvement of visual acuity.