Journal of Coastal Life Medicine

253-258

Authors: Harry Hariharan, Victor Amadi

The objective of this article is to present an overview on bacterial pathogens associated with shellfish in Grenada and other countries including the authors’ experience. Although there have been considerable published work on vibrios, there is a lack of information on Salmonella serovars associated with various shellfish. In Grenada, for instance the blue land crabs collected from their habitats were found to harbor several Salmonella serovars. Also, it is notable that only minimal research has been done on shellfish such as conchs and whelks, which are common in the Caribbean and West Indies. Information on anaerobic bacteria, particularly, non-spore forming bacteria associated with shellfish, in general, is also scanty. This review re-examines this globally important topic based on the recent findings as well as past observations. Strategies for reduction of bacteria in oysters are briefly mentioned because of the fact that oysters are consumed commonly without complete cooking.

263-267

Authors: Vladimir Ivanovich Martemyanov

Objective: To study the dynamics of H2O, Na, K, Ca and Mg content in the oocytes of bream, Abramis brama observed in prespawning period on breeding ground and in reply to catching, transportation and subsequent remaining of spawners in a cage. Methods: For research on the dynamics of H2O and cations content in the oocytes of bream females, Abramis brama in the course of eggs transition from maturity Stage IV to Stage V, fishes were caught from breeding ground in the coastal zone of the Volga Reach of the Rybinsk reservoir at the Vereteya Station. For studying the influence of stress, the bream (76 individuals) were caught from breeding ground by hauling the seine during 15 min. Capture, sorting and transportation for 3 h to the ponds were the stress factors. Samples of oocytes from 6–8 fishes were taken immediately after capturing, then two more were taken during transportation. Later fishes were removed from the cage in certain time intervals. Concentration of Na and K in the dissolved samples of oocytes was measured by the spectrometer (Flapho-4, Carl Zeiss, Iena, Germany) and content of Ca and Mg was measured by atomic-absorption spectrometer-1 (the same producer). Results: In natural conditions before spawning in the course of maturation of oocytes from maturity Stage IV to V, H2O content in the ovicells of bream has increased by 3.3% and concentration of Na, K, Ca and Mg has decreased by 24.9%, 38.1%, 56.2% and 65.7%, accordingly. Stress caused by capturing, transportation and the subsequent remaining of bream spawners in a cage did not change parameters of water-salt exchange of the oocytes. Conclusions: In natural conditions before spawning, the maturation of oocytes of bream from maturity Stage IV to V take place. Stress caused by capturing, transportation and the subsequent remaining of bream spawners in a cage prevents the transition of eggs from maturity Stage IV to V. It is suggested that in order to develop optimal technique stimulating oocytes maturation and the process of ovulation in industrial conditions, study of these reactions of spawners of one or another species in natural environment is preferentially conducted. Conditions of incubation and combination of hormonal preparations selected on the basis of these data should invoke similar effects as the ones spawners experience in natural habitat.

273-276

Authors: Devaraj Isaac Dhinakaran, Aaron Premnath Lipton

Objective: To study the pharmacological properties of Sigmadocia pumila (S. pumila), a marine sponge, through in-vivo analysis. Methods: The anti-inflammatory activity was determined by the carrageenan-induced rat paw edema method. The analgesic activity was analyzed by tail immersion method. Antipyretic activity was done by using Brewer’s yeast induced hyperpyrexia method. Results: The anti-inflammatory activity using methanol extracts in S. pumila at the concentrations of 100 mg/kg and 200 mg/kg, (p.o.) on rats showed significant decrease in the paw thickness at the 5th h of administration. It was denoted that the S. pumila exerted more analgesic activity. As for the antipyretic activity during the 2nd and 3rd h, the 3rd and 4th group of rats showed the reduction in temperature in S. pumila at 100 mg/kg and 200 mg/kg dosages. Conclusions: The present study concludes that the marine sponge S. pumila acts as a vital role in exhibiting pharmaceutical activities. It could be used to produce novel drugs.

284-289

Authors: Megha Barot, Nirmal Kumar J.I., Rita N. Kumar

Objective: To evaluate bioactive compounds responsible for antifungal activity from seaweeds of Okha coast, Western India. Methods: Each species were extracted with different solvents with increasing polarity: hexane, ethyl acetate, chloroform and methanol using Soxhlet apparatus. The antifungal activity was determined by agar diffusion plate method by using fluconazole, ketoconazole and amphotericin B as standards. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometer analysis was done for identification of bioactive compounds present in crude extract. Results: The gas chromatography-mass spectrometer analysis of all the extracts revealed the presence of steroids, fatty acids and esters compounds. Among the three species, the maximum crude extract yield (53.46%) and the largest inhibition zone (36 mm) were recorded in methanol extract of Ulva lactuca, whereas the minimum crude extract yield and inhibition zone were recorded in chloroform extract of the same species as 0.5% and 10 mm, respectively. Methanol and ethyl acetate extract showed the maximum antifungal activity and the major important compounds like steroids, fatty acids and esters were detected with higher amount in all the extracts. Conclusions: The present study revealed that the different seaweed extracts showed moderate to significant antifungal activity against the strains tested as compared with the standard fungicides, and polar solvents methanol and ethyl acetate were comparatively efficient for extraction of different metabolites that are responsible for antifungal activity.

295-298

Authors: Ramasamy Thangaraj, Saha Subhasish, Dharumadurai Dhanasekaran, Nooruddin Thajuddin

Objective: To reveal the screening of metal tolerance and dye-decolorizing of Nocardiopsis sp. Methods: NiSO4 and Congo red dye were used for evaluating the metal tolerance and dyedecolorizing of the randomly selected actinobacterial isolates. Results: Nocardiopsis sp. SD8 showed a better efficiency in Ni(II) tolerance, though a longer lag phase was observed for this microorganism grown for 7 days in integrated mismatch negativity. Interestingly, we also found that Nocardiopsis sp. SD8 had dye-decolorizing, hemolytic, lipase and protease activity. Conclusions: The present results revealed the bioremediation of metal resistant and diverse properties of Nocardiopsis sp. SD8 and further investigations are needed to extract and identify the potent molecule.

305-309

Authors: Lamia Sakka Rouis-Soussi, Asma El Ayeb, Saoussen Ben Salem, Hichem Ben Jannet, Fethia Harzallah-Skhiri

Objective: To assess the antioxidant activity of aerial parts of Allium roseum var. grandiflorum subvar. typicum Regel. (A. roseum var. grandiflorum subvar. typicum Regel.) for the first time, as well as to isolate the main bioactive compounds. Methods: The chloroformic extract of Allium roseum (A. roseum) and their fractions obtained by subjection to a chromatographic study were tested for their antioxidant activities by using 2, 2-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl and 2,2′-azinobis-(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) assays. An activity-guided purification was conducted to isolate five compounds in pure form where their structures were identified by means of nuclear magnetic resonance analyses, including 1D and 2D nuclear magnetic resonance experiments. Results: The evaluation of the antioxidant activity of chloroformic extract and their fractions from A. roseum var. grandiflorum subvar. typicum Regel. showed interesting results. The active chloroformic extract afforded five isolated compounds where their structures were identified as β-sitosterol (1), chrysoeriol (2), luteolin (3), apigenin (4), and β-sitosterol 3-O-β-D-glucoside (5). All the compounds were isolated for the first time from the A. roseum var. grandiflorum subvar. typicum Regel. The three flavonoids (2–4) exhibited the highest antioxidant activity with IC50 values of 62.28, 21.26 and 513.42 μg/mL, respectively (2, 2-diphenyl- 2-picrylhydrazyl assay) and 218.00, 73.50 and 877.66 μg/mL, respectively [2,2′-azinobis- (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) assay]. An important value of trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity (2.10 mmol/L) was reported for luteolin (3). Conclusions: These results may suggest that the A. roseum var. grandiflorum subvar. typicum Regel. have great potential as a source of a natural preservative ingredient in beneficial for natural health products.

315-319

Authors: Aziza Salim Al-Brashdi, Hebbatallah Al-Ariymi, Maha Al Hashmi, Shah Alam Khan

Objective: To quantify total phenols, flavonoids and to investigate the in vitro antioxidant power of Haplophyllum tuberculatum (H. tuberculatum) leaves extracts of varying polarities. Methods: The authenticated sample of H. tuberculatum (50 g) leaves was dried under shade, powdered and extracted exhaustively with ethanol by cold percolation method. The alcoholic extract was further partitioned into petroleum ether, acetone, chloroform and methanol to obtain the fractions of varying polarities which were subjected to qualitative phytochemical testing. Total phenolics and flavonoids content in the acetone, chloroform and methanol extracts were quantified by using standard colorimetric methods. Petroleum ether extract was omitted because it did not show the presence of either tannins or flavonoids. In vitro antioxidant activity and total antioxidant capacity were determined by using 1,1 diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl radical and phosphomolybdenum reagent. Ascorbic acid was used as a reference antioxidant for comparison purpose. Results: Qualitative phytochemical results of leaves extracts confirmed the presence of major secondary plant metabolites. The extraction of phenolic compounds varied considerably according to the polarity of solvent. The most polar fractions i.e. methanol were observed to have the highest phenolic content (561.22 mg/g of gallic acid equivalent) and flavonoids (165.54 mg/g of quercetin equivalent). Although the free radical scavenging activity of leaves fractions was noted to be slightly lower than the reference compound, a direct relationship was observed between phenolic content and in vitro antioxidant activity. On the other hand, leaves fractions exhibited significant total antioxidant capacity as ascorbic acid equivalent. Conclusions: The aerial part of H. tuberculatum is rich in phenolic compounds which might play a vital role in the discovery of natural antioxidants.

324-326

Authors: Salama Abo-elyazed Ouf, Tarek Abd-elgawaad Moussa, Alshimaa Saber Mohamed Abd-Elmegeed, Samar Mohamed Rajaee Eltahlawy

Objective: To study the occurrence and prevalence of dermatomycosis in special patient populations suffering from diabetes, cancer and heart diseases. Methods: A total of 640 patients suffering from diabetes, 280 patients suffering from cancer and 210 patients suffering from heart diseases from Cairo City were evaluated for dermatophytosis at the dermatology clinics of four different hospitals from January 2005 to December 2006. Results: It is estimated that diabetic patients are more likely to develop a fungal infection. The presence of diabetes is a risk factor for tinea pedis and tinea corporis. Tinea cruris and tinea unguium were not common among diabetics, while tinea capitis and tinea versicolor were completely missed. Tinea capitis is not uncommon among cancer patients and tinea pedis comes next. Conclusions: The present investigation shows that diabetes remains to be a risk factor for dermatophytosis and cancer comes next due to the use of radioactive irradiation.

331-333

Authors: Davood Azadi, Abass Daei Naser, Hasan Shojaei

Objective: To present the findings of a study on isolation of four unrelated environmental strains of Mycobacterium setense (M. setense) from hospital environment and help to assess the natural habitat and the mode of transmission in man. Methods: The water samples were collected from hospital departments and cultured on Löwenstein-Jensen and Sauton's media. The isolates, i.e., AW3-2, AW5, AW11 and AW18 were subjected to identification by conventional and molecular tests including sequencing analysis of 16S rRNA. Results: The water isolates revealed the phenotypic and molecular features which were consistent with M. setense including a genus specific amplicon of the hsp65 gene and 99.6% similarities with those of M. setense CIP: 109395T 16S rRNA gene sequences. Conclusions: The current report will contribute to a better understanding of the pathogenesis and path of transmission of this opportunistic pathogen to human.

335-336

Authors: Mohamed Mostafa Shokry*

A 3-year-old Arabian filly with a history of abnormal scapular mobility of the left foreleg following an accident during training. Unilateral partial rupture of serratus ventralis was diagnosed after ultrasonographic examination of the affected leg in comparison with the other sound leg.

169-175

Authors: Vladimir Ivanovich Martemyanov

The review presents data on structural changes, physiological and biochemical reactions occurring at salmon young fishes during smoltification. It is shown, that young salmon fishes located in fresh water, in the process of smoltification undergo a complex of structural, physiological and biochemical changes directed on preparation of the organism for living in the sea. These changes cause stress reaction which excites young fishes to migrate down the river towards the sea. Measures to improve reproduction of young salmon fishes at fish farms are offered.

181-186

Authors: Brady Keith Quinn

Objective: To identify an unusual encrusting calcareous organism found growing on upper intertidal rocks along the coast of the Minas Basin, Nova Scotia, Canada, which was thought to potentially represent a new, perhaps invasive species to the area. Methods: Observations were made of the organism growing in situ and of intact and dissected specimens under microscopes in the laboratory. Taxonomic keys were used to determine probable identity of the organism as a tunicate, sponge, bryozoan, marine lichen, or coralline red alga. These keys were then further used to identify samples to species. Results: The organism was determined to be Phymatolithon lamii (Me. Lemoine) Y.M. Chamberlain 1991, an encrusting coralline red alga native to the study region. This species normally occurs in the subtidal zone, so its occurrence in the high intertidal zone was unusual and resulted in the alga becoming bleached and taking on an unusual appearance. Conclusions: The sample did not represent a new or invasive species to the study area. However, occurrence of this species on the high intertidal zone was novel and may have resulted from unusual climatic and/or oceanographic conditions in the study area in 2015 that allowed this alga to settle and grow in the intertidal zone for a time before death and bleaching occurred. Events such as this resulting from climate change may negatively impact recruitment to populations of coastal marine species and should be investigated further.

193-196

Authors: Mina Dehghani-Samani, Abbas Doosti, Asghar Arshi

Objective: To detect the prevalence of Coxiella burnetii (C. burnetii) in two species of snails consisted of Lymnaea palustris (L. palustris) and Pomacea canaliculata (P. canaliculata) by using nested PCR method in Chaharmahel Va Bakhtiari Province which is located in the southwest of Iran. Methods: A total of 160 snail samples consisted of 100 L. palustris and 60 P. canaliculata were collected from 4 rice paddy fields in the southwest of Iran between June and August 2014. Snails' DNA was extracted by a genomic DNA purification kit according to the manufacturer's instructions. Detection of the presence of C. burnetii's DNA was carried out by using a nested PCR assay with [specific primers outer membrane protein 1 (OMP1)-OMP2 and OMP3-OMP4] targeting the com1 gene. Results: In this study, a total of 160 snail samples were tested and 15 (9.37%) samples were found positive for C. burnetii, 15 samples were positive from the L. palustris and there were no positive samples from P. canaliculata. Conclusions: Snails are kind of gastropods which seem to be harmless in life, but these small gastropods can be very dangerous for farmers, especially in humid climates. Also, C. burnetii in snails showed that this bacterium can be a factor of transmission of contamination to human beings and animals.

200-202

Authors: Mancuso Monique, Grossi Marco, Rappazzo Alessandro Ciro, Zaccone Renata, Caruso Gabriella, Riccò Bruno, Bergamasco Alessandro

Monitoring of bacterial pathogens is important for marine environmental protection, because the presence of these microorganisms can be a serious risk for human health. For this reason, a portable sensor implemented as an electronic embedded system featuring disposable measurement cells was used to evaluate the ability and sensitivity of detection of Escherichia coli (E. coli) as an indicator of fecal pollution in transitional environments and a water sample added with E. coli (102 CFU/mL) was assayed. The first result obtained from the laboratory experiment seems promising for the determination of E. coli in environmental samples, though further improvements will be needed for the field application of this sensor in marine and brackish waters.

207-210

Authors: Emilda Rosmine, Saramma Aikkarakunnath Varghese

Objective: To isolate and screen actinomycetes for antimicrobial activity from mangroves and estuarine soil samples of Cochin. Methods: In the present study, sediment samples collected from mangroves and various stations of Cochin estuary were pretreated and actinomycetes were isolated on different selective media. The isolates were screened for antibiotic activity by following disc diffusion assay (Kirby-Bauer method) against human pathogens, fish pathogens and Gram-positive bacteria. The isolates were identified based on their morphology. Results: Only 2 actinomycete isolates (ER7 and ER10) of the 50 isolates screened had antimicrobial activities against one or more pathogens tested. ER7 isolate showed higher antimicrobial activity as compared to that of ER10 isolate. The maximum inhibition zone of crude extract from ER7 was 16.7 mm. The methanol extract of ER7 showed antimicrobial activity against all the pathogens tested with a maximum zone of 21.0 mm. The isolates with antimicrobial activity were found to belong to the genus Streptomyces. Conclusions: There is no significant report on bioactive actinomycetes from the present study areas. Potent antibiotics from the selected isolates could contribute to fight against several human and fish diseases. Further purification, structural elucidation and characterization are recommended to know the quality, novelty and commercial value of these antibiotics. Hence, the mangroves and estuary of Kochi show great promise for the discovery of bioactive actinomycetes.

217-224

Authors: Winnyfred Crossia, Hans-Uwe Dahms, Krishnan Muthukumar, Thanamegam Kaviarasan, Thiyagarajan Thirunalasundari, Rathinam Arthur James

Objective: To assess the immunomodulatory and antibacterial properties of the coastal trees Aegle marmelos (A. marmelos) and Ficus benghalensis (F. benghalensis) by in-vitro methods. Methods: A. marmelos and F. benghalensis leaves were extracted with the solvents di-ethyl ether, ethanol and methanol. The extracts were investigated for antibacterial activity against human pathogenic bacteria and immunomodulatory activity against human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC), respectively. Results: F. benghalensis ethanol cold extract gave maximum inhibition zones against Escherichia coli NCIM 2931 (B2) at 18 mm and enhanced the growth of human PBMC. It was non-toxic to human PBMC shown by the Tryphan blue dye exclusion method, sulforhodamine B and MTT assays. IR phyto-chemical analysis demonstrated the presence of the functional groups: NH, CH2, CH3, CO, OH, -C-C=O, and C-S. We confirmed the presence of quantifiable amounts of tannins and alkaloids with traces of phenolic compounds by thin layer chromatography analysis. Conclusions: Leaves of A. marmelos and F. benghalensis provide both antibacterial and immunomodulatory properties.

231-235

Authors: Mohammad Shah Hafez Kabir, Shabbir Ahmad, Md. Sofi Mahamoud, Nishan Chakrabarty, Md. Akramul Hoque, Mohammed Munawar Hossain, Md. Nazim Uddin Chy, Mohammed Shoibe

Objective: To examine hypoglycemic and antibacterial activity against some Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria of organic extracts of four Bangladeshi plants. Methods: An in vivo hypoglycemic effect on mice model was used to check the hypoglycemic effect of four Bangladeshi herbal organic extracts viz., roots of Curculigo recurvata W. T. Aiton (Satipata) (C. recurvata), leaf of Amorphophallus bulbifer Roxb. (Olkachu) (A. bulbifer), whole plant of Thunbergia grandiflora Roxb. (Nillata) (T. grandiflora) and leaf of Steudnera colocasiifolia K. Koch (Yunnan) (S. colocasiifolia) using glibenclamide as a positive control and water as a negative control. They were also tested for antibacterial activity on three Grampositive and four Gram-negative bacteria by disk diffusion method. C. recurvata, A. bulbifer and T. grandiflora were extracted with methanol and S. colocasiifolia was extracted with ethanol. Results: Among all the plant extract, only ethanol extract of S. colocasiifolia leaves at 800 mg/ kg dose significantly (P < 0.01) reduced fasting glucose level in normal mice as compared to standard drug glibenclamide (5 mg/kg). Ethanol extract of S. colocasiifolia leaves at 800 mg/ kg dose decreased 20.28% of blood glucose level after 2 h of administration in normal mice, where glibenclamide decreased 39.63%. Methanol extract of T. grandiflra didn’t show any zone of inhibition against the tested bacteria, but other three extracts showed a wide range of zone of inhibition. However, none of the extract showed antibacterial activity against all the tested bacteria. Methanol extract of C. recurvata showed maximum zone of inhibition against Bacillus cereus [(10.50 ± 0.50) mm], Salmonella typhi [(16.20 ± 1.26) mm], Escherichia coli [(13.00 ± 1.00) mm] and ethanol extract of S. colocasiifolia showed maximum zone of inhibition against Staphylococcus aureus [(11.20 ± 1.26 (mm)], Bacillus subtilis [(12.00 ± 0.50 (mm)], Salmonella paratyphi [(10.80 ± 0.29 (mm)]. Only methanol extract of A. bulbifer showed (8.50 ± 0.50) mm and (7.20 ± 0.76) mm zone of inhibition against Pseudomomas aeruginosa at 1 000 and 800 µg/disk dose respectively. Conclusions: Through our study, it was found that S. colocasiifolia could be considered as very promising and beneficial hypoglycemic agent. Although C. recurvata and S. colocasiifolia showed comparable high antibacterial activity, further studies should be needed to develop new antibacterial agent from them. S. colocasiifolia may be a potential source for the development of new oral hypoglycemic agent.

240-243

Authors: João Simões

The main aim of this review was to describe the feasibility of prostaglandin F2α (PGF2α) based protocols used as a tool for ovulation synchronization in cycling goats. There is a reproductive seasonality in small ruminants. However, from latitudes 45 ° towards equator, the intensity of anoestrus progressively decreases and tends to disappear in local breeds. Consequently, PGF2α or their synthetic analogues as luteolytic substances can assume a great importance in reproductive management of flocks from these regions. However, a single or double (9–11 days apart) PGF2α administration provokes a good induction but a moderate synchronization of ovulations if timed artificial insemination is considered, and a significant short oestrous cycle can occur with detrimental effects on fertility rate when compared with conventional progesterone-based protocols. In order to minimize this constraint, some gonadotropinreleasing hormone-PGF2α-gonadotropin-releasing hormone (Ovsynch)-based protocols and their modifications, manipulating the dominant follicles and corpora lutea, were successfully tested in goats. Similar to cows, these PGF2α based protocols seem to be a promising and more cost-effective tool for reproductive management in cycling goats.

246-247

Authors: Sundaram Ravikumar, Lawrance Anburajan, Balakrishnan Meena

Objective: To evaluate the antibacterial activity of Ulva reticulata species collected from the Kanyakumari coast of India to determine their potential for bioactivity. Methods: The algal extract was prepared using n-butanol for evaluating the antibacterial activity of Salmonella typhi, Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Vibrio cholerae, Vibrio parahaemolyticus, Bacillus cereus and Listeria monocytogenes. Results: It was observed that the n-butanolic extract of the seaweed powder of Ulva reticulata (25–100 mg/mL) exerted notable antibacterial activity against tested bacterial strains. The maximum antibacterial activity was exhibited against Escherichia coli and Bacillus cereus in all concentrations. Conclusions: The results obtained in the present investigation supported the traditional use of the seaweeds against various infections. However, further investigation has been carried out to elucidate the exact mechanism and isolation of active principle.

251-252

Authors: Mohamed Mostafa Shokry, Ibrahim Mohamed Ibrahim

A 7-year old tortoise was examined for the presence of a hard swelling, hindering the necessary neck bending mechanism. Surgical removal was the solution to regain the mechanism normality.

85-90

Authors: Aytac Altin, Ozcan Ozen, Hakan Ayyildiz

Objective: To determine the shallow water fish species richness of Çanakkale and to analyse the spatiotemporal variations of these fish assemblages. Methods: Samplings were carried out monthly with a beach seine between January and December 2007. Samples were collected from 6 stations (No. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6). Stations 1 and 4 located in the Çanakkale Strait, 2 and 5 in North Aegean Sea, 3 and 6 in Sea of Marmara. Results: A total of 112 fish species were sampled and the two most common species were Atherina boyeri and Pomatoschistus marmoratus. A total of 93 species were sampled in the Çanakkale Strait, 85 in the Aegean Sea, and 77 in the Sea of Marmara. Shannon diversity index was the highest in the Aegean Sea. Dominant species were caused significant differences of both regional and seasonal fish assemblage fluctuations. Species richness and abundances decreased significantly in winter. Although more species were caught at night and a greater abundance of fishes was obtained during the day, no significant differences were found between day and night in terms of species richness and abundance. Conclusions: The results supported the biogeographical differences between the Aegean Sea, the Çanakkale Strait and the Sea of Marmara in terms of the shallow water fish community. The inventory in the current study can serve as baseline data prior to management strategies to ensure sustainable conservation of the area.

94-97

Authors: Shannon Sample, Marc Albrecht

Objective: To determine the burrow morphology of Cardisoma guanhumi and to determine if a battery-powered fiber optic camera could be used to investigate these burrows. Methods: A portable fiber optic camera was used to investigate 116 active burrows. All burrows were categorized according to shape. The diameter of each burrow was also recorded and biomass calculations were completed at each study site. Results: Analysis showed that different study sites were more likely to have particular burrow shapes than expected. Three main types of burrows were classified as horizontal slide, short and shallow, and inverted-S. A Pearson Chi-square analysis revealed that burrow shape was not equally distributed across study sites (χ2 = 61.05, df = 18, P < 0.000 1). Biomass calculations showed that different sized animals inhabited different study sites (ANOVA; df = 7, MS = 158.3, F = 13.9, P < 0.000 1). The fiber optic camera was useful in determining burrow morphology and occupancy non-destructively. Conclusions: As the locations of juvenile individuals of this species are poorly known, and the species is both ecologically and economically important where it occurs, a greater understanding of burrow morphology and size segregation may help agencies be responsible for managing this natural resource to do so effectively.

104-107

Authors: Masteria Yunovilsa Putra, Tutik Murniasih

Objective: To study the distribution and diversity of species and isolated molecules, according to their structure classes, from Indonesian marine organisms. Methods: This study was performed by using the SciFinder® database, MarinLit and references from relevant articles from 1980 to 2014 which collected all the scientific publications dealing with the isolation of chemical compounds from Indonesian marine macroorganisms and microorganisms. Results: The discovery of novel compounds from Indonesian marine organisms gave us a result of a total of 78 papers. Alkaloids, terpenoids and peptides (84, 67 and 15 new compounds, respectively) represented the three main chemical classes of compounds discovered from Indonesian marine organisms, and together with the other chemical classes showed a range of biological activities. Conclusions: The new marine compounds are mainly from sponges and soft corals. Alkaloids, terpenoids and peptides are the most prolific compounds isolated from Indonesian marine organisms. Most marine natural products from Indonesian organisms have been screened for anticancer or cytotoxicity activities.

114-120

Authors: Nahid Abdel Rahim Osman, Sayadat Eltigany Mohammed

Objective: To present an updated and compiled checklist of Sudanese seaweeds as an example for the region for conservational as well as developmental purposes. Methods: The checklist was developed based on both field investigations using line transect method at 4 sites along the Red Sea coast of Sudan and review of available studies done on Sudanese seaweeds. Results: In total 114 macroalgal names were recorded and were found to be distributed in 16 orders, 34 families, and 62 genera. The Rhodophyceae macroalgae contained 8 orders, 17 families, 32 genera and 47 species. The Phaeophyceae macroalgae composed of 4 orders, 5 families, 17 genera, and 28 species. The 39 species of the Chlorophyceae macroalgae belong to 2 classes, 4 orders, 12 families, and 14 genera. The present paper proposed the addition of 11 macroalgal taxa to be included in Sudan seaweeds species list. These include 3 red seaweed species, 1 brown seaweed species and 7 green seaweed species. Conclusions: This list is not yet inclusive and it only represents the macroalgal species common to the intertidal areas of Sudan Red Sea coast. Further investigation may reveal the presence of more species. While significant levels of diversity and endemism were revealed for other groups of organisms in the Red Sea region, similar work still has to be performed for seaweeds. Considering the impact of climate change on communities’ structure and composition and the growing risk of maritime transportation through the Red Sea particularly that may originate from oil tankers as well as that may emanate from oil exploration, baseline data on seaweeds are highly required for management purposes.

128-131

Authors: Behnam Shekarchi, Ali Nekuiefard, Ramin Manaffar

Objective: To investigate the biological effects of β-glucans in cell wall of new identified strain Saccharomyces cerevisiae strain YG3-1 on the growth of aquatic invertebrates, in Artemia as model organism. Methods: All yeasts used in the present study were isolated from Rainbow trout intestine and then cultured in yeast extract-peptone-glycerol medium. Activation of β-glucan in yeasts was performed by chemical treatment with 2-mercaptoethanol (2ME) (3.5% v/v). Then nauplii and larvae individuals of Artemia urmiana and Artemia franciscana (two different species of Artemia as test organisms) were fed with 2ME-treated yeasts during the culture. At the end of experiment, after feeding individual length (total length and growth rate) in adult individuals of Artemia was measured. Results: Following this administration, growth in both species of Artemia was improved (P < 0.05). So, the results showed that Artemia urmiana adults individuals that fed with 2MEtreated yeasts had the highest growth and total length. These results were confirmed with growth measurement in adult individuals of Artemia. Conclusions: This study suggested that 2ME-treated Saccharomyces cerevisiae strain YG3-1 yeasts can be used for enhancing the growth of other aquatic invertebrates like shrimps as probiotic supplement and growth promoter.

140-142

Authors: Setegn Eshetie, Fentahun Tarekegn, Gemechu Kumera, Feleke Mekonnen

Objective: To assess multidrug resistant (MDR) Escherichia coli (E. coli) isolates from patients with urinary tract infection. Methods: From February to June 2014, a cross sectional study was conducted among urinary tract infection patients at the University of Gondar Hospital. Culture and disk diffusion method were used for E. coli isolation and to determine the antibiotic susceptibility patterns. Data were entered and analyzed using SPSS version 20. P < 0.05 was considered as statistically significant. Results: A total of 112 E. coli isolates were identified and the rate of isolation was higher among female participants (28.7%; P = 0.03). Of the isolates, 104 (92.9%) were MDR E. coli; and the isolates showed high resistance rates towards ampicillin (99%), cotrimoxazole (69%), chloramphenicol (58.7%), gentamycin (56.7%) and ceftazidime (55.8%). However, comparative isolates showed low resistance rates to ciprofloxacin (1%), cefepime (8.7%), and ceftriaxone (11.5%). Moreover, resistance rates of MDR E. coli isolates were significantly higher than non-MDR strains for ceftazidime (55.8% versus 12.5%; P = 0.015), and ampicillin (99% versus 87.5%; P = 0.018). Conclusions: High prevalence of MDR E. coli isolates was observed in this study. Regular monitoring of antibiotic resistance rates is necessarily required to improve and revise empirical antibiotic therapy protocols.

148-153

Authors: Walimuni Kanchana Subhashini Mendis Abeysekera, Chatura Tissa Dayendra Ratnasooriya, Wanigasekara Daya Ratnasooriya, Sirimal Premakumara Galbada Arachchige

Objective: To evaluate inhibitory activity of methylglyoxal (MGO) mediated protein glycation and ability to potentiate its reversing activity and range of antioxidant properties of Sri Lankan low grown orthodox orange pekoe grade black tea. Methods: Freeze dried black tea brew (BTB) was used as the sample in this study. Antiglycation and glycation reversing activity was studied in bovine serum albumin (BSA)-MGO model. Antioxidant properties were studied using total polyphenolic content, total flavonoid content, 2,2’-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid, 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazine and ferric reducing antioxidant power in vitro antioxidant assays. Results: The results demonstrated significant (P < 0.05) and dose dependant inhibition of BSA-MGO glycation [IC50: (164.30 ± 4.85) µg/mL], potentiating of its reversing activity [EC50: (235.39 ± 5.37) µg/mL] and marked antioxidant properties [total polyphenolic content: (119.55 ± 9.97) mg gallic acid equivalents/g BTB; total flavonoid content: (6.04 ± 1.26) mg quercetin equivalents/g BTB; 2,2’-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid, 1,1-diphenyl-2- picrylhydrazine and ferric reducing antioxidant power: (3.29 ± 0.06), (1.95 ± 0.15) and (1.31 ± 0.19) mmol Trolox equivalents/g BTB, respectively]. No correlations were observed between antioxidant activity and BSA-MGO glycation. Conclusions: The novel properties observed for Sri Lankan orange pekoe grade black tea indicate its usefulness as a supplementary beverage in managing MGO and advanced glycation end products related diseases and ailments.

157-160

Authors: Rezaul Haque, Wahedul Islam, Selina Parween

Objective: To conduct the antibacterial potency and minimum inhibitory concentration of extracts (n-hexane, acetone, chloroform and methanol) obtained from the root, leaf and stem of Capparis zeylanica. Methods: The powdered leaf, root and stem samples were Soxhlet extracted sequentially in n-hexane, acetone, chloroform and methanol. Antibacterial potency was evaluated by following the agar diffusion method and amoxicillin disc was used as a control. Results: In vitro antibacterial activity against 12 bacteria was performed with crude extracts. Among them, all the bacteria showed the moderate activity but chloroform and methanolic extracts showed promising antibacterial potency against Staphylococcus aureus, Sarcina lutea, Bacillus megaterium, Bacillus subtilis, Salmonella typhi and Shigella dysenteriae (leaf > root > stem). This activity was evaluated using disc diffusion method with a standard antibiotic, 30 µg/disc of amoxicillin. Conclusions: Strong antibacterial potency of chloroform and methanolic extracts provides new antibacterial compounds.

167-168

Authors: Beuy Joob, Viroj Wiwanitkti

Sargassum species is a group of big marine algae. It can be seen around the world and the coastal people have used it as food for years. The use of Sargassum spp. in medicine is very interesting. In this short article, the authors summarize and discuss on Sargassum spp. and its usefulness in endocrinology

1-7

Authors: Berhan Asmamaw

Objective: To detect single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the cod transferrin gene by comparing the sequences from Norwegian (North East Atlantic Ocean) and Canadian (North West Atlantic Ocean) specimen, and to quantify the genetic variation and differentiation in East and West Atlantic cod populations. Methods: cDNA sequences between individuals of Canadian (North West Atlantic Ocean) and Norwegian (North East Atlantic Ocean) origin were aligned. Allele frequencies of the SNPs were used to discriminate the different Atlantic cod populations in West/East Atlantic Ocean, and the Baltic Sea. Results: The sequence alignment detected 19 SNPs, of which 18 of them resulted in amino acid changes in the transferrin protein. Nonsynonymous to synonymous site substitution ratio (dn/ ds) was by far greater than 1 providing an evidence for the existence of positive selection. The West Atlantic cod populations showed high values of heterozygosity and the Baltic populations were found to be inbred. Conclusions: This study identified and indicated transferrin gene polymorphisms that can be used for population differentiations.

10-13

Authors: Khan Hira, Viqar Sultana, Jehan Ara, Syed Ehteshamul-Haque, Mohammad Athar

Objective: To assess the hepatoprotective effect of ethanol extracts of Sargassum variegatum (S. variegatum), Sargassum tenerrimum (S. tenerrimum) and Sargassum binderi occurring at Karachi coast against carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) and acetaminophen intoxication in rats. Methods: Sargassum species were collected at low tide from Buleji beach at Karachi coast. Effect of ethanol extracts of Sargassum spp., on lipid parameter, serum glucose and kidney function was examined. Liver damage in rats was induced by CCl4 or acetaminophen. Rats were administered with ethanol extracts of S. tenerrimum, S. variegatum and Sargassum binderi at 200 mg/kg body weight daily for 14 days separately. Hepatotoxicity was determined in terms of cardiac and liver enzymes and other biochemical parameters. Results: S. variegatum showed highest activity by reducing the elevated level of hepatic enzymes, bilirubin, serum glucose, triglyceride with restoration of cholesterol. Urea and creatinine concentrations were also significantly (P < 0.05) reduced as compared to acetaminophen intoxicated rats. S. tenerrimum and S. variegatum showed moderate activity against CCl4 hepatic toxicity. Conclusions: The protective role of S. variegatum against acetaminophen liver damage and its positive impact on disturbed lipid, glucose metabolism, kidney dysfunction and S. tenerrimum against CCl4 liver toxicity suggest that Sargassum species offer a non-chemical means for the treatment of toxicity mediated liver damage.

21-23

Authors: Nwoha Rosemary Ijeoma Ogechi, Omamegbe Joseph Omalathebu

Objective: To determine the effect of Trypanosoma brucei (T. brucei) on blood sugar level of infected rats. Methods: The experiment was done with 42 albino rats grouped into 3 groups of 14 members each. Group A was uninfected (control group), Group B was infected with T. brucei and treated with diminazene aceturate, and Group C was infected with T. brucei and treated with imidocarb dipropionate. Blood samples were collected from the media canthus of the experimental rats on Days 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 for the assessment of change in blood sugar levels. The blood sugar levels were determined with a glucometer (Accu-chek active serial No. GN: 10023338). Results: By 4 to 5 days post infection, there was a significant increase (P < 0.05) in the blood sugar of Group B and Group C. By Day 6 post infection (Day 2 post treatment), no significant difference (P > 0.05) was observed in the groups when compared with the control group till Day 12 of the experiment. Conclusions: T. brucei caused a significant increase in blood sugar of infected rats.

30-35

Authors: Pankaj Kumar, Harresh Adikesavalu, Thangapalam Jawahar Abraham

Objective: To study the prevalence of Edwardsiella tarda (E. tarda) in finfish and shellfish of West Bengal and Bihar, India and their antibiogram. Methods: Fish samples were enriched overnight in Edwardsiella ictaluri broth and plated onto Edwardsiella ictaluri agar. Typical colonies were identified conventionally and by VITEK 2 compact system. Antibiogram was done by agar disc diffusion assay. Results: Of the 118 fish samples screened, only 14.41% had E. tarda. The incidence was marginally high in wild fish (15.30%) than in cultured fish (13.26%). Maximum incidence was in intestine (12.98%) followed by gills (6.60%) and skin (2.38%). All E. tarda strains were sensitive to ciprofloxacin and exhibited varying degrees of resistance to other antibiotics. Multiple antibiotic resistance was seen in 84.00%–87.50% of the E. tarda strains. Majority of them had high minimal inhibitory concentration values (200 µg/mL) for oxytetracycline and gentamycin. Conclusions: The results suggested that considerable proportions of commercially important finfish are carriers of multiple antibiotic resistance E. tarda. This calls for proper sanitary measures to eliminate this pathogen in fish and fishery products.

39-44

Authors: Fethi Benbelaïd, Abdelmounaïm Khadir, Mourad Bendahou, Fatima Zenati, Chafika Bellahsene, Alain Muselli, Jean Costa

Objective: To evaluate the antimicrobial potency of Rosmarinus eriocalyx (R. eriocalyx) essential oil and total polyphenols against pathogenic microorganisms. Methods: Antimicrobial activity of R. eriocalyx extracts was assessed by disc diffusion method and minimum inhibitory concentrations determination. Essential oil obtained from endemic rosemary by hydrodistillation was analysed by gas chromatograph/retention index and gas chromatograph-mass spectrometer. Results: An interesting antimicrobial activity was shown by R. eriocalyx extracts. Polyphenols, constituted mainly by flavonoids, were the most effective extract with very low minimum inhibitory concentrations values, ranged between 0.06 and 8.00 mg/mL, while essential oil was less efficient. It should be noted that antimicrobial activities of both R. eriocalyx extracts were more directed against fungi and Gram-positive bacteria than Gram-negative ones, in which Staphylococcus aureus, Enterococcus faecalis, and Candida albicans were the most sensitive strains. Concerning chemical composition of R. eriocalyx essential oil, camphor (37.8%), 1,8- cineole (17.4%), camphene (13.3%), and α-pinene (10.9%) were the major compounds. Conclusions: The findings of the present study indicate that R. eriocalyx extracts possess significant bactericidal and fungicidal activities. Because of its richness in essential oil, and especially flavonoids, R. eriocalyx may be a source for effective and safe antimicrobial agents.

50-52

Authors: Wondu Dagnaw, Alemayehu Mekonnen

Objective: To investigate phytochemicals constituents and check the anthelmintic activities of Maesa lanceolata (M. lanceolata) solvent extracts against aquatic leech. Methods: Several phytochemicals were tested and screened from petroleum ether, chloroform and methanol extracts of M. lanceolata extracts and their anthelmintic activities were done based on the standard procedure against aquatic leech. Piperazine citrate (20 mg/mL) was used as a reference standard while distilled water was used as a control. Results: Qualitative phytochemical analysis of different solvent (petroleum ether, chloroform and methanol) extracts of M. lanceolata revealed the presence of flavonoids and alkaloids in chloroform extracts and alkaloids in methanol extracts. In addition to the qualitative analysis of the plant extracts, the anthelmintic effects were also evaluated against aquatic leech (Lymnatis nilotica). Accordingly, various concentrations (10, 20, 40 and 60 mg/mL) of each solvent (petroleum ether, chloroform and methanol) extracts and 20 mg/mL of standard drug were prepared and tested against the selected leech. All the tested concentrations showed anthelmintic activities in a dose-dependent manner. From petroleum ether, chloroform and methanol extracts, chloroform extracts with 60 mg/mL concentration was effective with the paralytic time of (29.00 ± 1.06) min and death time of (65.00 ± 2.00) min in gradient extraction method. But in the case of extraction without gradient method, methanol extracts with 60 mg/ mL concentration showed effective paralysis and death time (26.00 ± 1.73) and (56.00 ± 1.56) min, respectively, against the selected aquatic leech. Conclusions: The present study revealed that M. lanceolata extracts have magic anthelmintic activities which are helpful to treat aquatic leeches (Lymnatis nilotica) which are associated with the nasal cavities of animals and human beings.

56-60

Authors: Narayan Sharma, Amit Raj Sharma, Bishun D Patel, Kanti Shrestha

Objective: To study chemical constituents of essential oil of the roots of Nardostachys jatamansi found in different regions of Nepal and also to investigate phytochemical as well as antimicrobial activity of the sample with high yield of essential oil. Methods: The essential oils of roots of plant from five different regions were extracted by hydro-distillation and analyzed by gas chromatography-mass spectroscopy for their chemical constituents. The root samples were also subjected to hydro-alcoholic extraction and then fractionated with hexane, chloroform, n-butanol and water so as to perform phytochemical screening and antimicrobial activity. Results: The essential oil yield of sample from Jumla was found to be the highest followed by a sample from Nepalgunj, Surkhet and Kathmandu whereas that of sample from Dharan was found to be the lowest. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometer analysis of essential oil of five samples showed that “2-beta pinene” appeared dominated in three samples, namely, 6VJ Nepalgunj, 9VJA Jumla and 10VJ Surkhet. Similarly “alkohol aus neoclovenoxid” in 8VJ Dharan and “methoxy phenyloxime” in 13VJA Kathmandu was found to be present in the highest amount. Phytochemical screening of different fractions of sample 9VJA Jumla showed the presence of alkaloids, terpenoids, glycosides, proteins and amino acids, and carbohydrates etc. Antimicrobial susceptibility test of same fractions showed the n-butanol fraction potent against all pathogens and most affected one was Escherichia coli. Conclusions: Our study suggests that the essential oil of Nardostachys jatamansi found in Nepal contains more than 80 compounds with their quality and quantity differing from place to place.

69-72

Authors: Garima Mishra, Ratan Lal Khosa, Pradeep Singh, Mohd Adil Tahseen

Herbal drug therapy is the most trusted system of medicine in countries like India, where people strongly believe in Ayurveda as herbs are the part of rural Indian lifestyle. Most of the diseases which have no medicine in allopathic system can be cured successfully by using traditional medicines. Leea indica, a traditional Chinese medicinal plant is the sole member of the family Leeaceae, which is closely related to the economically important grape family, Vitaceae. It is widely distributed from Southern Asia to Northern Oceania. The plant parts are enriched with various bioactive compounds such as gallic acid, quercitrin, β-amyrin, β-sitosterol and lupeol, etc. Traditionally, it is used to treat itchy skin, fever, diarrhea, and body aches. The current review attempts to encompass the available literature on Leea indica with respect to its phytochemistry, traditional uses and gist of its various pharmacological activities.

78-79

Authors: Somsri Wiwanitkit, Viroj Wiwanitkit

Diphyllobothriasis caused by Diphyllobothrium latum is an important helminthiasis. It is seen in many non-tropical countries. Since it is a marine fish-borne zoonosis, it becomes an important issue in coastal medicine. However, in the few recent years, there are some reports on a new emerging diphyllobothriasis caused by Diphyllobothrium latum in tropical countries. In this specific short article, the authors review and present on the situation of diphyllobothriasis in Southeast Asia. Diphyllobothriasis presently becomes a new concern in tropical coastal medicine.

83-84

Authors: Lott Pooi Wah, Syed Shoeb Ahmad, Yew Yih Voon, Shuaibah Abdul Ghani, Visvaraja A/L Subrayan

This case report aims to report an uncommon case of bee sting keratopathy with retained stinger. A 55-year-old man presented with left cornea bee sting while gardening two days prior to first visit. He complained of severe eye pain with redness, tearing and blurring of vision. On examination, his right eye visual acuity was 6/6 and in left eye was hand movement. There was generalized conjunctival hyperemia and cornea showing significant descemet striae. A bee stinger with surrounding infiltration noted at 2 o'clock was associated with striate keratitis. It was deeply seated at the posterior third of cornea stroma near to paracentral area. Pupil was mid-dilated with absence of relative afferent pupillary defect. There was neither hypopyon nor cataract. The posterior segment could not be visualized due to severe corneal edema. However, B-scan ultrasound was normal. Bee stinger was removed under local anaesthesia on the day of presentation. Post-operatively, patient was administered with topical moxifloxacin and topical non steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Three weeks later, there was resolution of cornea infiltrate with improvement of striate keratitis and his vision was improved to 1/60. However, cornea edema did not regress but ended up with bullous keratopathy. The patient has undergone descemet-stripping automated endothelial keratoplasty and his vision was improved to 6/9. We recommend early stinger removal to reduce the possible sequelae of bee sting toxicity for better visual outcome.

925-930

Authors: Miquel Planas, José Antonio Vázquez, Beatriz Novoa

Objective: To study the effect of species of lactic acid bacteria (LAB) from telluric origin on the growth of the microalgae Isochrysis galbana (I. galbana) in small and medium volume flasks. Methods: In the first experiment, 7 LAB species [Carnobacterium piscicola, Lactobacillus brevis, Lactobacillus casei ssp. casei, Lactobacillus helveticus, Lactococcus lactis spp. lactis, Leuconostoc mesenteroides spp. mesenteroides (L. mesenteroides spp. mesenteroides) and Pediococcus acidilactici (P. acidilactici)] were inoculated in 250 mL flasks containing microalgae I. galbana (106 cells/mL). After fitting the growth data to two mathematical models, two LAB strains (L. mesenteroides spp. mesenteroides and P. acidilactici) were selected for the second experiment in which those strains were inoculated in medium size (5 L) volume cultures of I. galbana (1.2 × 105 –1.5 × 105 cells/mL). The bacterial load in cultures from the first experiment was analyzed by plating on marine agar, MRS agar and thiosulfate citrate bile saltssucrose media. Results: All strains of LAB tested enhanced the growth rate and the final biomass yield of I. galbana cultures, even in the absence of nutrients in the media. The best overall results and the maximal final cell densities in small flasks were achieved with strains L. mesenteroides spp. mesenteroides and P. acidilactici, respectively. These two strains also stimulated the growth (40% and 16% with respect to controls) of I. galbana in medium size volumes. For most strains, CFU values of LAB remained stable (105 –108 CFU/mL) for at least 4 days. A high variability was observed in bacteria strains among treatments, with Pseudomonas and Moraxella being the most abundant bacteria. Conclusions: The results of present study showed that the growth of I. galbana in both small and medium size volumes was enhanced by LAB, both in the absence and the presence of nutrients in the culture. The highest final biomass was achieved by adding P. acidilactici, whereas Carnobacterium piscicola and L. mesenteroides spp. mesenteroides provided maximal growth rates. The former also showed an inhibitory effect on Moraxella.

944-949

Authors: Thangaraj Ramasamy, Santhoshkumar Subramaniyam, Dhanasekaran Dharumadurai, Kala Karuppannan, Alharbi Naiyf Sultan, Arunachalam Chinnathambi, Ali Alharbi Sulaiman, Thajuddin Nooruddin

Objective: To evaluate the antibacterial activity of zinc oxide nanoparticles synthesized using phycobilins of Anabaena variabilis NTSS17. Methods: The cyanobacterial isolate was collected from paddy field and morphologically identified as Anabaena variabilis NTSS17, that produces a pigment i.e. phycobiliproteins. The biosynthesized zinc nanoparticles were characterized by different spectroscopic and analytical techniques such as UV-visible spectrophotometer, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction which confirmed the formation of zinc nanoparticles. Results: Antibacterial activity of zinc oxide nanoparticles was examined against Escherichia coli, Rhodococcus rhodochrous and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The maximum zone of inhibition occurred at 5 mg/1000 mL concentration of zinc oxide nanoparticles. Conclusions: Due to potent antimicrobial and intrinsic properties of zinc oxide, it can be actively used for biomedical applications.

956-961

Authors: Naglaa Farag Soliman, Samir Mahmoud Nasr

Objective: To conduct a health risk assessment of some heavy metals attributed to consumption of common edible fish species available for consumers. Methods: Concentrations of Cd, Cr, Cu, Fe, Mn, Pb and Zn were determined in muscles, gills, livers, bones and skins of six common edible fish species, namely Oreochromis niloticus, Mugil cephalus, Sardinella aurita, Mullus barbatus, Boops boops, Pagrus pagrus. Concentrations of heavy metals were determined by atomic absorption spectrophotometer and expressed as µg/g of wet tissue. Results: Results showed that iron and zinc were the most abundant among all fish tissues under investigation. The data obtained in the present work were compared well with the counterpart data reported internationally. The estimated values of all metals in muscles of fish in this study were below the permissible limits. Moreover, the potential health risks of metals to human via consumption of seafood were assessed by estimating daily intake and target heath quotient. Generally, risk values for the measured metals do not pose unacceptable risks at mean ingestion rate for muscles. Conclusions: It can be concluded that the investigated metals in edible parts of the examined species have no health problems for consumers.

967-970

Authors: Gary Kim Kuan Low, Seng Chiew Gan, Shu Cheow Ho

Objective: To evaluate five biomarkers (neopterin, vascular endothelial growth factor-A, thrombomodulin, soluble vascular cell adhesion molecule 1 and pentraxin 3) in differentiating clinical dengue cases. Methods: A prospective cohort study was conducted whereby the blood samples were obtained at day of presentation and the final diagnosis were obtained at the end of patients’ follow-up. All patients included in the study were 15 years old or older, not pregnant, not infected by dengue previously and did not have cancer, autoimmune or haematological disorder. Median test was performed to compare the biomarker levels. A subgroup Mann-Whitney U test was analysed between severe dengue and non-severe dengue cases. Monte Carlo method was used to estimate the 2-tailed probability (P) value for independent variables with unequal number of patients. Results: All biomarkers except thrombomodulin has P value < 0.001 in differentiating among the healthy subjects, non-dengue fever, dengue without warning signs and dengue with warning signs/severe dengue. Subgroup analysis for all the biomarkers between severe dengue and non-severe dengue cases was not statistically significant except vascular endothelial growth factor-A (P < 0.05). Conclusions: Certain biomarkers were able to differentiate the clinical dengue cases. This could be potentially useful in classifying and determining the severity of dengue infected patients in the hospital.

975-977

Authors: Oyetunde Oyeyemi, Ifeoluwani Adesanya, Bolaji Ogunnowo, Isaac Oyewole

Objective: To assess the association between urine pH and specific gravity (SG) and occurrence of urinary tract pathogens involved in urinary tract infection (UTI) in school pupils. Methods: Laboratory culture techniques and biochemical tests were carried out to identify the UTI-associated bacteria in school pupils’ urine of United Nursery and Primary School, IlaraRemo, in Ikenne Local Government area, Ogun State, Nigeria. Urine dip-stick tests were carried out on the samples to take pH and SG measurements. Results: The prevalence of urinary tract pathogens in the study population was 82.4%. This prevalence was not gender and age dependent (P > 0.05). Escherichia coli (E. coli ) (37.0%) and Klebsiella (0.9%) were the highest and least prevalent uropathogens. There was significant increase in proportion of subjects diagnosed with E. coli (37.5%), Staphylococcus aureus (32.0%), Klebsiella (57.1%) in pH 9, pH 6 and pH 8, respectively (P < 0.05). However, an increase in proportion of individuals diagnosed with Proteus occurred in pH 6 and 9 (31.3% each); these proportions were not significant compared with results in other pH categories (P > 0.05). There were significant increase in proportion of subjects diagnosed with E. coli (50.0%), Proteus (56.3%), Staphylococcus aureus (44.0%), Klebsiella (71.4%) in SG 1.010, 1.015, 1.015 and 1.010, respectively (P < 0.05). Conclusion: Therefore, the urine pH 9 and SG 1.010–1.015 are the best diagnostic indicators of UTI-associated uropathogens in school children.

982-986

Authors: Md. Razibul Habib, Mohammad Mustakim Billah, Mohammad Mahfuz-E-Alam, Kashfia Nawrin, Md. Rakibul Hasan, Md. Mominur Rahman, Md. Anisul Islam, Irfan Newaz Khan

Objective: To evaluate the analgesic, neuropharmacological, cytotoxic and thrombolytic potentials of the aqueous, ethanol and ethyl acetate extracts of Kalanchoe pinnata leaves. Methods: At the dose of 400 mg/kg body weight, the analgesic activity of the extracts were evaluated by the acetic acid-induced writhing and formalin-induced persistent pain tests while neuropharmacological activity was evaluated by the open field, hole cross and elevated plus maze tests. The cytotoxic potential was observed by brine shrimp lethality bioassay and the thrombolytic potential was investigated by clot lysis test. Results: The aqueous extract significantly suppressed the number of writhing (96.78%) as well as the formalin-induced persistent pain on the early phase (46.92%) and on the late phase (40.98%). Again in case of hole cross and open field tests, the locomotor activity was decreased significantly (P < 0.001) mostly by the ethyl acetate extract. Furthermore, the sedative-anxiolytic activity was supported by the increased percent (P < 0.01) of frequency into the open arm on elevated plus maze test. Besides, the extracts showed moderate lethality and thrombolytic activity. Conclusions: The findings showed that activities are comparable to the standards and in some cases are stronger than the standards. Therefore, based on the results, it is evident that it has great analgesic and sedative-anxiolytic activity with moderate cytotoxic and thrombolytic potential.

992-995

Authors: Aisha Mohammad Ibrahim, Bashir Lawal, Ndababru Amos Tsado, Abubakar Awwal Yusuf, Adisa Mohammed Jimoh

Objective: To identify the active ingredients presented in methanol extract of Senna occidentalis (S. occidentalis). Methods: Dried powdered leaves of S. occidentalis were extracted with methanol by Soxhlet extraction and the extract was subjected to preliminary phytochemical screening by using standard procedure and methods. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometer (GC-MS) analysis was performed by comprising a GC-MS (model: QP2010 Plus Shimadzu, Japan) comprising an AOC-20i auto-sampler and gas-chromatograph interfaced to a mass spectrometer. Results: The phytochemical study revealed the presence of tannins, alkaloids, glycoside, flavonoids, steroids, saponins, anthraquinones and phlobatannins while cardiac glycoside was not detected. GC-MS chromatogram showed nine peaks. A total of 31 compounds were identified when the mass spectra of the constituents was compared with the National Institute Standard and Technology library. The first compounds identified with less retention time (15.929 s) were n-hexadecanoic acid, octadecanoic acid and pentadecanoic acid while decanoic acid, decyl ester, ether, octadecyl vinyl, oleic acid, hexyl ester, stearic acid, octadecyl ester and decyl fluoride took the longest retention time (20.600 s) for identification. Conclusions: The presence of these compounds in the plant extract may at least be responsible for one of the pharmacological properties of S. occidentalis and thus could be of considerable interest to the development of new drugs.

1000-1002

Authors: Pradeep Singh, Ratan Lal Khosa, Garima Mishra, Mohd Adil Tahseen

The Acanthaceae family is an important source of therapeutic drugs and the ethno pharmacological knowledge of this family requires urgent documentation as several of its species are near extinction. Justicia is the largest genus of Acanthaceae with approximately 600 species. Aim of the present review is to present literature for the traditional uses & pharmacological review of Justicia picta (Family: Acanthaceae) and to discuss further priorities of research yet to be discovered.

1006-1007

Authors: Lott Pooi Wah, Tan Boon Hooi, Leow Sue Ngein, Shuaibah Abdul Ghani, Visvaraja A/L Subrayan

A 52 year-old construction worker presented with progressive painful blurring of vision in the left eye associated with redness for past 1 month. There was a history of penetrating injury in the same eye 10 years ago and he underwent primary wound toilet and suturing, lens removal with intraocular lens implantation. Slit lamp examination revealed a corneal scar at 9’oclock, a large transilluminant iris cyst superotemporally and adherent to corneal endothelium. It was extended from angle of the pupil and obstructing the visual axis. The patient underwent excision of an iris cyst through superior limbal incision. Viscodissection was done to separate the cyst from the corneal endothelium and underlying iris stroma. Trypan blue ophthalmic solution was injected into the cyst to stain the cyst capsule. Post operatively 7 days, vision improved to 6/7.5 without complication. There was no recurrence up to 1 year postoperation. Histopathological finding revealed a benign cyst mass lined by simple cuboidal to nonkeratinized stratified squamous epithelium. We had achieved a good surgical outcome with no complication to date for our case study. We advocate this modified surgical method to completely remove iris cyst.