Journal of Coastal Life Medicine

421-428

Authors: Marisa Rangel, Miriam Falkenberg

The first marine natural products that served as leads or scaffolds for medicines were discovered in the middle of last century: the arabinosyl glycosides from the marine sponge Tectitethya crypta. Synthesis and modifications of the natural molecules generated antiviral and antileukemic drugs developed in the 1970’s and in the following decades, including the first effective treatment against HIV infection. With the improvement of techniques for the elucidation of chemical structure of the molecules, as well as chemical synthesis, especially from the 1990’s, there was an increase in the number of bioactive natural products characterized from marine organisms. New chemical structures with high specificity towards molecular targets in cells allowed the development of new drugs with indication for the treatment of several illnesses, from cancer to new antibiotics, and even neurological disorders. Currently there are at least 13 molecules derived from marine natural products on advanced clinical trials, and nine were approved to be used as medicines. Considering that in the past eight years, more than 1 000 new compounds from marine organisms were described, per year, the expectation is that many more drugs will be derived from marine natural products in a near future.

433-437

Authors: Eyo Victor Oscar, Edet Theresa Arit, Ekanem Albert Philip

Objective: To determine the prevalence, mean intensity, and abundance of monogenean parasites in Clarias gariepinus (C. gariepinus) from two selected fish farms in Calabar, Cross River State, Nigeria. Methods: Eighty specimens of C. gariepinus from the two farms (40 each) were necropsied for parasitological analysis. Skin, gill and fin biopsies were prepared from each specimen following standard methods for microscopic analysis. Parasitological indices including dominance (D), prevalence, mean intensity and abundance were calculated according to standard formulae. Data were analyzed using the Fisher's exact test. Results: C. gariepinus from the two farms were infested with a total of ninety individuals of monogenean parasites belonging to three species including Macrogyrodactylus clarii (M. clarii), Gyrodactylus sp. and Dactylogyrus sp. D index showed that the three monogenean species were eudominant (D-value > 10%). Gyrodactylus sp. was more abundant (46) followed by Dactylogyrus sp. (23) while M. clarii was the lowest (21). Prevalence, meaning intensity and abundance of monogenean parasites in the two farms, varied insignificantly higher (P > 0.05). Prevalence in both farms were higher in female C. gariepinus than that in male. Monogenean parasites exhibited organ specificity as M. clarii and Dactylogyrus sp. were recovered from the gills while Gyrodactylus sp. colonized the skin and fin. Conclusions: High abundance of these parasites may lead to poor growth performance and high mortality in C. gariepinus, leading to huge monetary loss and low profit margin by increasing production cost due to the cost of treatments.

441-445

Authors: İsmet Berber, Cumhur Avşar, Hilal Koyuncu

Objective: To evaluate in vitro antimicrobial, antioxidant activities and total phenol contents of Cystoseira crinita and Ulva intestinalis species collected from the coastal region of Sinop. Methods: The antimicrobial activity of each methanolic algae sample was screened by using disc diffusion method against to 15 bacteria and 3 yeasts. The antioxidant potential of the extracts on the stable radical 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl was determined. The total phenolic content of the 3 methanolic extracts of the seaweed samples were determined by the Folin- Ciocalteu method. Results: The results of antimicrobial assay showed that extracts were more effective against Gram-positive bacteria rather than Gram-negative. In addition, while the algal extracts had antifungal efficacy against Candida krusei, the other yeast strains were not affected at all. According to the findings of antioxidant activity, all methanolic extracts displayed good free radical scavenging activity ranging from IC50 = (32.19 ± 0.08) mg/mL to the IC50 = (37.57 ± 0.11) mg/mL. The total phenols content of the macroalgal extracts were found as between (5.10 ± 0.16) mg gallic acid equivalent/g and (87.70 ± 1.03) mg gallic acid equivalent/g. In this sense, our findings confirmed that there was a positive linear correlations (r = 0.86) between total phenol contents and the IC50 values. Conclusions: The data gathered from this study suggested that the seaweeds can be used as a potential natural seafood sources owing to the antimicrobial efficiency and good antioxidant activity.

453-458

Authors: Palani Damotharan, Anguchamy Veeruraj, Muthuvel Arumugam, Thangavel Balasubramanian

Objective: To evaluate the antibacterial activity of sea snake (Enhydrina schistosa) venom protein against drug-resistant human pathogenic bacterial strains. Methods: The venom was collected by milking process from the live specimens of sea snake are using capillary tubes or glass plates. Venom was purified by ion exchange chromatography and it was tested for in-vitro antibacterial activity against 10 drug-resistant human pathogenic bacterial strains using the standard disc diffusion method. Results: The notable antibacterial activity was observed at 150 μg/mL concentration of purified venom and gave its minimum inhibitory concentrations values exhibited between 200-100 μg/mL against all the tested bacterial strains. The maximum zone of inhibition was observed at 16.4 mm against Salmonella boydii and the minimum activity was observed at 7.5 mm against Pseudomonas aeruginosa. After the sodium-dodecyl-sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis there were a clear single band was detected in the gel that corresponding to purified venom protein molecular weight of 44 kDa. Conclusions: These results suggested that the sea snake venom might be a feasible source for searching potential antibiotics agents against human pathogenic diseases.

466-470

Authors: Thangapalam Jawahar Abraham, Shubhadeep Ghosh, Debasis Sasmal

Objective: To study the influence of biological products on the levels of nitrogen and sulphur cycle bacteria in shrimp culture systems of West Bengal, India. Methods: The pond water and sediment samples were analyzed for physico-chemical parameters as per standard methods. The bacteria involved in ammonification, nitrification, denitrification, sulphate reduction and sulphur oxidation were enumerated by most probable number technique. Results: The semi-intensive and modified extensive shrimp farms used a variety of biological products during various stages of production. No biological products were used in traditional farms. The water and sediment samples of modified extensive system recorded significantly higher mean heterotrophic bacterial counts. The counts of ammonia, nitrite and sulphur oxidizers, and nitrate and sulphate reducers varied among the systems. The cycling of nitrogen and sulphur appeared to be affected with the intensification of culture practices. Conclusions: The application of biological products in certain systems helped to maintain the bacteria involved in nitrogen and sulphur cycles and safe levels of ammonia, nitrite and nitrate. An assessment of these metabolically active bacteria in shrimp culture ponds and the application of right kind microbial products would help ameliorate the organic pollution in shrimp aquaculture.

476-485

Authors: Janarthanan Gopalakrishnan

Objective: To determine the chemical constituents of the traditional vegetal salts and find out if they are safe to consume. Methods: Seven different salts have been obtained from three provinces, of which five belong to Morobe Province. The cations were determined using inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectroscopy and anions using titrimetry, gravimetry and spectrophotometry. Others like solubility, electrical conductivity, pH, antimicrobial, Fourier transform infrared spectral and volatility studies have been carried out for these salts. Results: While few salts were found to be stable, others were deliquescent; and the colour varies from white to black through yellow and brown. It was found that the potassium ion was dominant while others including sodium and calcium were found in lower concentrations. For the first time, certain d-block metal concentrations were measured though most of them were found to be present at very low levels. Other parameters like volatility, solubility, electrical conductivity, antimicrobial and Fourier transform infrared spectral studies were carried out for the first time for these vegetal salts in Papua New Guinea. Conclusions: The salt’s deliquescence could be correlated to the presence of anions like carbonate, bicarbonate and hydroxide which strongly contribute towards it. Similarly, solubility and conductivity of the salts could be correlated well. The salts were found to be harmless for consumption, but for the high potassium content.

491-494

Authors: Nwoha Rosemary Ijeoma Ogechi, Anene Boniface Maduka

Objective: To determine the effect of Ancylostoma caninum (A. caninum) and trypanosome parasites on the immune response to vaccination in dogs in endemic environments. Methods: Sixteen dogs for the experiment were grouped into 4 of 4 members each. Group I was the uninfected control one, and GPII was infected with A. caninum; GPIII was infected with A. caninum/Trypanosoma congolense (T. congolense), and GPIV was infected with Trypanosoma brucei (T. brucei)/A. caninum. The dogs were first vaccinated with antirabies vaccine before infecting GPII, GPIII and GPIV with A. caninum which were done 4 weeks after vaccination. By 2-week post-vaccination, trypanosome parasites were superimposed on both GPIII and GPIV. A secondary vaccination was given to GPI, GPII, GPIII, and GPIV by Week 12 of the experiment (4 weeks post treatment). Results: The prepatent period was (3.00 ± 1.40) days, in the conjunct infection of T. brucei/ A. caninum. It was (9.00 ± 1.10) days, in conjunct T. congolense/A. caninum. The prepatent period of A. caninum was (14.0 ± 2.0) days in the single A. caninum group and (13.0 ± 1.0) days in the conjunct trypanosome/A. caninum. At the 1st week after vaccination, the antibody titer in all the vaccinated groups (GPI, GPII, GPIII, and GPIV) significantly increased (P < 0.05) and peaked at the 3rd week after vaccination. Following infections, there were marked significant decreases (P < 0.05) in the antibody production against rabies in GPII, GPIII and GPIV. The significant decrease (P < 0.05) in antibody titer was highest in the conjunct groups (GPIII and GPIV) compared to the single infection (GPII). Treatment with diminazene aceturate and mebendazole did not significantly improve antibody response in the dogs. A secondary vaccination administered at the 12th week after the primary vaccination significantly increased (P < 0.05) the antibody titer with a peak at the 3rd week after the secondary vaccination. Conclusions: It was therefore concluded that A. caninum, T. brucei and T. congolense induced immunosuppression in antirabies vaccination in dogs.

503-504

Authors: Beuy Joob, Viroj Wiwanitkit

Horseshoe crab can be poisonous and intoxication due to intake of horseshoe crab is possible. Horseshoe crab intoxication can be seen in many countries with seacoasts including Thailand. Here, the authors summarized the death rate due to horseshoe crab poisoning in Thailand.

337-340

Authors: Quratulan Ahmed, Semra Benzer, Naeema Elahi

Objective: To determine Fe, Cu, Zn, Pb and Cd concentrations in muscle of sind sardinella [Sardinella sindensis (S. sindensis)] from Balochistan coast, Pakistan. Methods: S. sindensis were collected from Balochistan coast, Pakistan, at autumn inter monsoon, north east monsoon, spring inter monsoon and south west monsoon during October 2005-September 2006. All samples were analyzed for Fe, Cu, Zn, Pb and Cd by AAnalyst 700 flame atomic absorption spectrophotometer. Results: Generally, S. sindensis caught from Balochistan coast showed the accumulation level of Fe [(16.88 ± 5.60) μg/g], Cu [(2.74 ± 1.89) μg/g], Cd [(0.29 ± 0.25) μg/g], Zn [(4.29 ± 2.31) μg/g] and Pb [(0.24 ± 0.24) μg/g] in the muscle tissues. Conclusions: The metal concentrations in fish from Balochistan coast observed in this study were lower than the limit values. Therefore, all metal accumulations in S. sindensis have to be monitored continuously, especially in this region.

348-351

Authors: Ahmed Elsayed Gomma, Jin Man Kim, Seung Hwan Yang, Gyuhwa Chung

Objective: To develop the current single primer PCR-based genome-walking method with Scenedesmus sp. Methods: The unknown 5’ and/or 3’ flanking regions for a specific conserved sequence were optimized and the current single primer PCR-based genome-walking method were developed. Alignment was between the related species of microalga and Scenedesmus sp. For 18S rDNA, we selected the species Scenedesmus sp., Chlorella sp., and Chlamydomonas sp. For the rbcL gene from the chloroplast genome, alignment was done between Scenedesmus sp., and Chlamydomonas sp. Results: Obtaining a small conserved sequence for any gene family is something that can be achieved quite easily. However, identifying the whole gene is often difficult. After investigating and testing, some of the current protocols using to get the unknown 5’ and/or 3’ flanking regions for a specific conserved sequence, we developed the current single primer PCR-based genome-walking method. We performed two consecutive PCR reactions; band extraction and the PCR product were sequenced. We got our results by testing the method on three genes from the total DNA of Scenedesmus sp.; two genes had a fully known sequence in gene bank (18S rDNA and rbcL), but the third one has not yet been identified (rbcS). We designed our primers based on the alignment between the related species and to each other. We also tested two different DNA polymerases Ex Taq and TLA polymerase. Conclusions: Results from our study suggest that Ex Taq is the most suitable polymerase for the current protocol.

356-360

Authors: Reni Tri Cahyani, Sri Purwaningsih, Azrifitria

Objective: To study the possible effects of Cerithidea obtusa extract as antidiabetic and to screen the secondary metabolites presence. Methods: Antidiabetic activity of Cerithidea obtusa extract was measured in vitro using α-glucosidase inhibition method. Whereas, secondary metabolites screening was measured qualitatively. Results: The methanol extract had antidiabetic activity (IC50 = 36.40 mg/mL). However, the control drug acarbose had significantly higher antidiabetic activity (IC50 = 0.32 mg/mL). Secondary metabolites screening showed the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, triterpenoids and saponins. Conclusions: The methanol extract had antidiabetic activity and the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids and triterpenoids might contribute to the activity.

366-369

Authors: Moussa Ahmed, Baghdad Khiati, Saad Aissat, Noureddine Djebli

Objective: To search for further synergistic combinations of gentamicin and raw honey that might have potential in treating wounds. Methods: The antibacterial activity and synergistic interaction of raw honey and gentamicin was assessed by using agar well diffusion method. Two Gram-negative (Escherichia coli ATCC 25922 and Pseudomonas aeruginosa ATCC 2154) bacteria were selected for antibacterial activity assay. The cultures of bacteria were maintained in their appropriate agar slants at 4 °C throughout the study and used as stock cultures. Results: Raw honey and gentamicin interacted synergistically to inhibit Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Conclusions: These results suggest that combinations of raw honey and gentamicin have therapeutic benefits in prophylaxis of infections caused by multidrug-resistant Gram-negative bacilli.

372-378

Authors: Md. Mizanur Rahman, Ahmmed Rusti Foysol, Anaytulla, Md. Masudur Rahman, Mohammed Aktar Sayeed, Md. Abdullah-Al-Mamun, Mohammad Mustakim

Objective: To evaluate the antidiabetic and antioxidant effects of the methanol extract of Syzygium operculatum bark (MSOB) using in vivo and in vitro models. Methods: Antidiabetic activity was assessed by using alloxan induced (120 mg/kg body weight) diabetic mice. The plant extract (200 mg/kg and 400 mg/kg body weight) was administrated i.p. to diabetic mice in comparison with standard metformin hydrochloride (150 mg/kg body weight). The antioxidant activity of the extract was evaluated by using a range of in vitro assays and results were compared to standards. Results: The extract MSOB 200 mg/kg and 400 mg/kg reduced the blood glucose level 44.05% and 55.53% respectively where the standard drug metformin reduced 69.42% in dose of 150 mg/kg body weight. The extract MSOB showed significant 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl scavenging activity, total phenol content, total flavonoid content and reducing power capacity compared to standards. The IC50 values were found 300.34 μg/mL in 1,1-diphenyl- 2-picrylhydrazyl radical scavenging assay where 40.31 μg/mL for ascorbic acid. The total phenol and flavonoid contents were 197.5 and 267.5 mg of gallic acid equivalent per gram, respectively. Conclusions: The present study indicates that the extract of Syzygium operculatum bark is the potential sources of natural antioxidant and possesses significant antidiabetic activities.

382-388

Authors: Backiyaraj Muthusamy, Elumalai Arumugam, Kasinathan Dhamodaran, Mathivanan Thangarasu, Krishnappa Kaliyamoorthy, Elumalai Kuppusamy

Objective: To evaluate the antifeedant, oviposition deterrent, ovicidal and larvicidal activities of benzene, dichloromethane, diethylether, ethyl acetate and methanol extracts of Indian medicinal plant, Caesalpinia bonducella (C. bonducella) at different concentrations against Lepidopteran agricultural field pest Helicoverpa armigera (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae). Methods: Antifeedant activities of the selected plant extract were studied using leaf disc nochoice method and oviposition deterrent, ovicidal and larvicidal activities were also assessed by adapting the standard protocols. Results: The antifeedant activity of C. bonducella showed significant antifeedant activity in methanol extract. Oviposition deterrency is higher in methanol extract than the other solvent extracts. Similarly, maximum egg mortality was observed in methanol leaf extract of C. bonducella Lethal concentration, LC50 value of benzene, diethylether, dichloromethane, ethyl acetate and methanol extract of C. bonducella were 470.02, 469.00, 465.47, 460.52 and 443.87 mg/L respectively. The Chi-square values are significant at P< 0.05 level. Among five solvent extracts, the methanol extract was responsible for strong lethal activity observed against selected pest species. Conclusions: Results of this study show that the selected Indian medicinal plant C. bonducella could be a potent source of natural antifeedant, oviposition deterrent, ovicidal and larvicidal agent against the field pest Helicoverpa armigera.

395-397

Authors: Gemechu Ameya Buli, Fekade Yerakly Lukas

Objective: To assess the cytological patterns of lymph node diseases in patient attended Hawassa University Referral Hospital, Southern Ethiopia. Methods: A five years retrospective descriptive study design was conducted on fine needle aspiration cytology reports of patients referred to pathology laboratory of Hawassa University Referral Hospital from September, 2009 to September, 2014. Results: A total of 1 067 lymph nodes were aspirated in the study period. Cervical lymphadenopathy was the most frequent (48.82%) followed by submandibular (22.77%) lymph nodes. The age group of 11-20 years was the most affected age group while age group above 60 with less frequency. Tuberculosis lymphadenitis was the highest (48.82%), chronic non-specific lymphadenitis (20.33%), reactive (16.21%), pyogenic abscess (5.99%) and the rest were malignancies. Conclusions: Lymphadenopathy can be associated with a wide range of disorders. However tuberculosis lymphadenitis is the most common cause of enlarged lymph node in the study area.

405-413

Authors: Parimannan Sivachandran, Rajandas Heera, Pattabhiraman Lalitha, Manickam Ravichandran, Shalini Sivadasan, Kasi Marimuthu

Hirudotherapy has a broad spectrum of therapeutic application in the medical field ranging from cardiology, gynaecology, ophthalmology, plastic and reconstructive surgeries. In medieval and early modern medicine, leeches were used to remove blood from patients in an attempt to balance the biological humours. Leeches are widely used to treat venous congestion in microvascular replantation, free and conventional flap surgery and traumatology. Recently, Food and Drug Administration has approved the usage of live leeches as medical device for therapeutic applications. Presently, some of the leech species have declined dramatically in its population due to the over utilization of leech for medicinal purposes and also due to pollution in several parts of the world particularly in European and Asian countries. This review presents an overview of leech including the history, biology, classification, and its application as medical device. Further, it also covers the controversies and misconception related to leech species identification and complications of post hirudotherapy.

416-417

Authors: Beuy Joob, Viroj Wiwanitkit

Puffer fish poisoning is a common seafood poisoning. The problem is due to tetradotoxin in puffy fish meat. It can be seen in many countries with seacoasts. The problem is resulted from tetradotoxin (TTX) in puffer fish meat. This toxin is an important natural toxin. Here, the authors report summary of case reports from Thailand. The authors use standard search engines (PubMed and Thai Index Medicus) for searching on the reports on puffer fish poisoning from Thailand. According to this work, there are at least 3 reports on 55 cases of puffer fish poisoning. All cases visit to the physician within 30 min. Focusing on severity, stage 1, 2, 3 and 4 can be seen in 16%, 8%, 4% and 72%, respectively. In the present report, the summary of the cases presenting to the physician at hospital is shown. Of interest, most patients have severe intoxication and the respirator failure is an important problem to be managed. It is clearly shown in the present report that if good respiratory support is done, the full recovery without problem can be derived. It is no doubt that there is no death case in the present series since the present report focuses on the cases that are successfully delivered to the hospital for management.

253-258

Authors: Milena Ferreira, Isac Silva de Jesus, Eliana Feldberg, José Antônio Alves-Gomes

Electric fishes (Gymnotiformes) inhabit Central and South America and form a relatively large group with more than 200 species. Besides a taxonomic challenge due to their still unresolved systematic, wide distribution and the variety of habitats they occupy, these fishes have been intensively studied due to their peculiar use of bioelectricity for electrolocation and communication. Conventional analysis of cells, tissues and organs have been complemented with the studies on the electric organ discharges of these fishes. This review compiles the results of 13 bioassays developed during the last 50 years, which used the quickness, low costs and functionality of the bioelectric data collection of Gymnotiformes to evaluate the effects of environmental contaminants and neuroactive drugs.

265-272

Authors: Selvaraj Karthick Raja Namasivayam, Duraisamy Jayakumar, Ramesh Kumar, Rajan Sowri Arvind Bharani

Objective: To synthesize silver nanoparticles from the biomass of cold tolerant strain of Spirulina platensis and evalute the synthesized nanoparticles against antibacterial and anticancer activity. Methods: Silver nanoparticles were synthesized by the algal culture and characterized by UV-vis spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, field emission scanning electron microscopy and X ray diffraction studies. Antibacterial activity has been studied with free nanoparticles adopting agar diffusion assay, biofilm inhibition assay and nanoparticles fabricated wound dressing against representative Gram-negative organism Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Gram-positive organism Staphylococcus aureus respectively. The in vitro anticancer activity of silver nanoparticles were screened against human Hep2 cell lines by means of MTT assay. Results: Reduction of silver ions by the algal culture was observed during 72 h of incubation and the synthesized nanoparticles were further characterized. Antibacterial study reveals both the strains were susceptible to free nanoparticles and fabricated wound dressing treatment. The in vitro anticancer activity of silver nanoparticles were screened against human Hep 2 cell lines by means of MTT assay which reveals that cell viability has been reduced as dose dependent manner. Conclusions: The observed results imply that silver nanoparticles synthesized from Spirulina platensis cold tolerant strain can be used as potential antibacterial and anticancerous agent.

276-283

Authors: Jinhua Cheng, Sung-Kwon Lee, Sasikumar Arunachalam Palaniyandi, Joo-Won Suh, Seung Hwan Yang

Objective: To enhance physiological activities of adzuki bean (Vigna angularis) via fermentation with Monascus pilosus (M. pilosus). Methods: The adzuki bean fermentation conditions with M. pilosus were optimized, and the effect of Monascus-fermentation on the antioxidant capacity and phenolic acid contents of adzuki bean was investigated. Results: Optimal fermentation conditions were determined by the production of monacolin K. The highest monacolin K production was observed in 5% inoculum sized on day 15 in fermentation. Free and bound phenolic acids were isolated from native and fermented adzuki bean. A 1.9-fold decrease was observed in bound p-coumaric acid content, whereas the contents of bound ferulic and sinapic acids were increased by 28- and 1.7-fold, respectively. However, the contents of free phenolic acids such as p-coumaric, ferulic, and sinapic acids were increased by 2.6-, 5.2-, and 7.2-fold, respectively. The fermentation of adzuki bean by M. pilosus enhanced the activities of DPPH● radical scavenging, ferrous ion-chelating, nitric oxide scavenging, and ferric antioxidant reducing activities 2.2-, 1.7-, 1.2-, and 1.8-fold, respectively. Conclusions: Results from our study suggest that the contents of p-coumaric, ferulic, and sinapic acids in adzuki bean were highly increased by fermentation with M. pilosus, resulting in enhanced various antioxidant activities.

290-294

Authors: Periyasamy Selvakumar, Alagarsamy Sakthivel, Ayyaru Gopalakrishnan

Objective: To study the prevalence of philometrid nematode, Philometra spp. infected in the ovaries of Epinephelus malabaricus (E. malabaricus) from southeast coast of India. Methods: Totally 4 801 fishes were collected from Mandabam, Tuticorin and Kanyakumari. The normal and infected ovaries were carefully removed from dissected fishes and the prevalence of nematode infection for each fish was examined. Then the nematode were carefully removed and washed in a 0.6% saline solution and fixed in 70% ethanol. Representative nematodes were cleaned with glycerin and fixed in a solution of 95% glacial acitic acid and 5% formalin for identification under light microscopy. Results: Of which 16.8%, 16.2% and 14.7% parasitic prevalence was observed from Mandabam, Tuticorin and Kanyakumari respectively. The intensity of parasitic worms per fish varied from 1 to 8 with an average of 6.33±0.84. Nematode length varies from 7-22 mm with in average of (18.70±4.57) mm. The average length and weight of E. malabaricus were (332.950 ±77.792) mm and (513.30±169.46) g respectively. Conclusions: It can be assumed that females of this nematode are unable to attain gravidity in this host species, and consequently, E. malabaricus does not serve as the true definitive host of Philometra spp. Prevalence of infection and intensity of the nematode are highly effected by sucking blood, causing atrophy of developing ova in the ovary, fibrosis of ovarian tissue, increasing granulocytes and haemorrhages, and thus negatively affecting the reproduction of some species of E. malabaricus.

302-306

Authors: Md. Istiaque Hossain, Rajia Sultana, Murshida Khatun

Objective: To understand the existing fish distribution and marketing systems, assess marketing costs and margins and identify constraints of fish marketing systems. Methods: Data were collected from three different markets by fishermen, commission agents, wholesalers, retailers, day laborers etc. through questionnaire interviews and participatory approach during June to September, 2013. Results: Four types of marketing channel were identified from farmers to consumers in all the three fish markets through a number of intermediaries. The daily supply of total fish in Binodpur Market, Talaimari Market and Shaheb Market was estimated 0.8-1 ton, 0.2-0.3 ton and 8-8.1 ton, respectively. Virtually, most of the fish (75%) is imported from outside; the local supply amount is only 25%. The total marketing cost of wholesalers and retailers of the three markets were $ 8.58 and $ 6.47 per day, respectively. The average marketing margin of the wholesalers and retailers of the three markets were $ 0.18 and $ 0.25 per kg respectively. Income of fisherman, wholesaler, retailer and day laborer was estimated at $ 350, $ 9.75, $ 6.48, and $ 1.69, respectively. Conclusions: Traders have broadly improved their food consumption, standards of living, purchasing power, choice and ability as an economic sector.

312-316

Authors: Buhari Hauwa Ali, Erhabor Osaro, Imrana Sani, Abubakar Wase, Onuigwe Festus, Okwesili Augustine, Isaac Zama, Yakubu Abdulrahaman, Dallatu Kabiru, Yeldu Mohammed Haruna

Objective: To investigate the prevalence and socio-demographic factors associated with iron deficiency anaemia among blood donors in Sokoto, North Western, Nigeria using a combination of haemoglobin haematocrit and serum ferritin measurements. Methods: One hundred and fifty consecutively recruited whole blood donors, comprising of 148 (98.7%) family replacement donors and 2 (1.3%) voluntary non-remunerated donors aged 18-60 years and mean age 39±21 years constituted the subjects for this study. The full blood count was carried out using Mythic 22 CT fully automated haematology analyser (Orphee SA, Switzerland). Serum was tested for ferritin using a human ferritin enzyme immunoassay kit- ACCU Diag™ ELISA Ferritin kit (Diagnostic Automation/Cortez Diagnostic Inc. California, USA). Results: The prevalence of anaemia (haemoglobin<11.0 g/dL) was evident in 24 (16%) and iron deficiency anaemia (serum ferritin<12 ng/mL+haemoglobin<11 g/dL) in 5 (10%) of donors. The haemoglobin and ferritin levels was significantly lower among regular voluntary remunerated blood donors (13.50±0.00 and 34.88±0.00) compared to family replacement donors (14.10±2.40 and 74.12±45.20) respectively (P=0.01 and 0.05 respectively). The mean haemoglobin and ferritin level was compared among donors based on gender. The haemoglobin and ferritin was significantly higher among male donors (14.20±2.00, 78.02±49.10) compared to female donors (12.35±2.5 and 42.20±32.13) (P=0.01). The mean haemoglobin and ferritin level was compared among donors based on occupational groups. The haemoglobin and ferritin was significantly higher among civil servants compared to farmers and students (P=0.01). Conclusions: Iron deficiency anaemia is prevalent among blood donors in Sokoto, North Western, Nigeria. There is need to include routine ferritin in the blood donor testing protocol in the area to enable the diagnosis of donors with latent iron deficiency anaemia to facilitate iron supplementation for regular blood donors at risk and those with iron deficiency anaemia.

322-325

Authors: Javid Ali, Bashir Ahmad

Objective: To evaluate brine shrimp lethality assay of solvent extracts (aqueous, methanol, ethanol, acetone, ethyl acetate, chloroform and n-hexane) of Hippophae rhamnoides (H. rhamnoides) leaves. Methods: Brine shrimp cytotoxicity assay was used to assess the cytotoxic potential of H. rhamnoides leaves extracts. Three vials for concentration of each extract were made and 10 shrimps per vial (30 shrimps per dilution) were transferred to specific concentration of each extract. Results: The mortality of aqueous extract was 46.7%, methanol extract was 46.7%, ethanolic extract was 50.0%, ethyl acetate was 26.7%, acetone extract was 33.3%, chloroform extract was 40.0% and n-hexane extract was 33.3%. The lowest LD50 was found in methanol extracts (1 199.97 μg/mL). Brine shrimp cytotoxicity of tested extracts of H. rhamnoides showed that mortality rate was concentration dependent. Conclusions: It is concluded that bioactive components are present in all leaves extracts of H. rhamnoides, which could be accounted for its pharmacological effects. Thus, the results support the uses of this plant species in traditional medicine.

333-335

Authors: Ambali Hauwa Motunrayo, Nwoha Rosemary Ijeoma Ogechi, Garba Danjuma Bire, Kantiyok Josiah Tagwai, Omamegbe Joseph Omolathebu

A two years' old, white and brown Yankassa ewe, weighing 20 kg was presented with dystocia of about 48 h duration at Mabs Veterinary Centre Ltd, Lagos. On thorough physical and vaginal examination, there were evidences of feotal parts and foul smelling discharges per vagina. A systematic and calculated traction and retropulsion revealed schistosomus reflexus cojoined twins. There was a complete recovery of the ewe 3 days post operative management. Finally, this case reported a true schistosomus reflexus cojoined twins in Yankassa ewe which was successfully relieved through traction and retropulsion despite the supposedly small birth canal which precluded the procedure in ewes except for caesarian section or fetotomy.

169-177

Authors: Vladimir Ivamovich Martemyanov

The original and published data on the physiological and biochemical reactions in fish in response to stress impact and during the reproduction period are presented. It is shown that at the initial period of stress and before spawning the protective functions in fish are enhanced which relates to the adaptation syndrome. However, during the initial period of stress the damaging effects prevail over the adaptive processes resulting in the decrease in the level of resistance (“alarm reaction” according to Selye). In contrary, during pre-spawning period protective systems dominate along with enhancement of general adaptation syndromes. This facilitates the increase in the level of resistance in the parental fish (“resistance stage” according to Selye). Before the spawning the alarm stage is not manifested. The state comparable to strong stress occurs in the parental fish only during the spawning. This state is accompanied by decrease in the resistance of organism in spawner evidencing exhaustion of protective functions (“exhaustion stage” according to Selye). With time, both at stress and after spawning, within two to three weeks period, the physiological-biochemical parameters recover and stabilize with the normal limits.

183-186

Authors: Reza Tarkhani, Mohammad Reza Imanpoor, Mohammad Forouhar Vajargah, Sayede Amene Hossain

Objective: To evaluate the effects of 17-beta-estradiol on growth factors of goldfish (Carassius auratus). Methods: To perform the test, 17-beta-estradiol was given 3 months period to fish at different doses as followed: control group, Group 1: 10 mg/kg food, Group 2: 25 mg/kg food and Group 3: 50 mg/kg food. For this purpose, a solution of hormone in pure ethanol used to spray on food. Feeding was done 3 times daily as an appetite. Comparing the mean values measured for length and weight using ANOVA. Results: Indicated with increase length and weight, the effects of the hormone get more distinct, so that with increase concentration of hormone, reduce weight and length. Conclusions: Estradiol along with testosterone and progesterone regulates final stages of oocyte maturation and ovulation. Various studies have proven the different concentrations of this hormone has different effects on the growth of different fishes. The aim of this study was to assess the effects of this hormone on growth factors of Carassius auratus.

193-198

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

Objective: To evaluate the isolation of actinomycetes strains with potential for producing antimicrobials with high methicilin resistance capability. Methods: The soil samples were collected from four different locations of Lagos lagoon. The Actinomycetes were isolated from the samples by serial dilution using spread plate method. Isolates were selected based on their cultural characteristics as well as their Gram reaction and phenotypically and molecularly characterized Streptomyces sp. Isolates were inoculated in starch casein and Kuster’s broth media and 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, Enterococcus faecalis ATCC 29212. Coagulase-negative staphylococci isolated from HIV patients were also used (Staphylococcus warneri, Staphylococcus xylosus and Staphylococcus epidermidis). The antimicrobial metabolites of the isolates were identified using gas chromatography-mass spectrometer. Results: Extracts from isolates ULS12 and ULS13 showed antimicrobial activity against methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus while ULK3 inhibited Candida albicans only. The gas chromatography-mass spectrometer data analysis showed the antibiotic profile of these isolates. Conclusions: The isolates ULS12 and ULS13 were found to display the highest antimicrobial activity against the test organisms and could be a potential source of new antibiotics.

204-210

Authors: Abdul Viqar Khan, Qamar Uddin Ahmed, Athar Ali Khan

Objective: To evaluate antibacterial sensitivity of 43 ethnomedicinally important plants belonging to 25 different families from Western Uttar Pradesh, a northern province in India, against hospital isolated pathogenic strains of Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus). Methods: Methanol (MeOH) and aqueous extracts of plants were subjected to sensitivity test against S. aureus ATCC 25953 and two hospital isolated virulent strains of S. aureus SA1 and SA2 following disc diffusion assay to determine sensitivity and agar dilution method to test minimum inhibition concentration using Mueller-Hinton agar. Results: Potential antibacterial activity was recorded for MeOH extracts against test pathogens, while moderate antibacterial activity was observed in case of aqueous extracts. Out of 43 plant species, 39 species were found sensitive to tested strains. Minimum inhibition concentration values of MeOH extracts were demonstrated at low concentration ranging from 15.5 mg/mL up to 45.5 mg/mL compared to aqueous extracts which were observed ranging from 30.0 mg/ mL up to 95.0 mg/mL. Conclusions: The present findings strongly support traditional uses of these plants in the treatment of infectious maladies and further urge of phytochemical and pharmacological research to develop safer and cheaper drugs for the benefit of ailing humanity.

214-219

Authors: Ali Saleh Hamed Al-Jafari, Mohammad Amzad Hossain

Objective: To identify the chemical constituents and evaluate antimicrobial potential of various crude extracts from leaves of Datura metel grown in Oman. Methods: The leaf samples were collected from the University of Nizwa and extracted with methanol by using Soxhlet extractor. The isolated crude extract was defatted with distilled water and extracted with solvents of different polarities including hexane, chloroform, ethyl acetate and butanol. Chemical compositions of the crude extracts were analyzed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometer and their antimicrobial potential was evaluated by agar disc diffusion method against one Gram positive bacteria Staphylococcus aureus and two Gram negative bacteria Escherichia coli and Pseudomonus aeruginosa. Results: The crude extracts were composed of different organic compounds such as alkaloids, hydrocarbons, aromatic hydrocarbons, organic acids, terpenoids, vitamin etc. The methanol and its fractionated crude extracts showed antimicrobial potential with inhibition zone in the range of 0-13 mm. Conclusions: The selective crude extract from the leaves of Datura metel could be used as natural antibiotics.

228-232

Authors: Javid Ali, Bashir Ahmad

Objective: To evaluate the antitumor and anti-proliferative activities of methanol, aqueous, acetone, ethyl acetate, ethanol, chloroform and n-hexane extracts of Hippophae rhamnoides leaves. Methods: Antitumor activities were evaluated by using the antitumor potato disc assay by using inoculums (Agrobacterium tumefaciens) with three different concentrations of test samples (10, 100 and 1 000 mg/L). Anti-proliferative activity was evaluated by the given method of methyl thiazolyl tetrazolium assay. The concentrations of the extract ranging from 0.039 to 10 mg/mL were tested against HeLa cells. Results: Highest tumors inhibition activity (60.9% and 55.8%) was shown by methanol and ethanol extracts, with EC50 values of 424.41 and 434.61 mg/L respectively. At 10 mg/mL, The highest cell inhibition 75.61% was observed in methanol extract and the lowest 36.59% were calculated in n-hexane extract. The difference in tumor and cell inhibition (%) may be due to the different concentration of active compounds responsible for antitumor and anti-proliferative activities. All extracts have considerable level of tumor and cell inhibitiory effect in a dose dependent manner. Conclusions: Our finding showed that Hippophae rhamnoides leaves are a potent natural source of antitumor and antiproliferative agent.

241-244

Authors: Mahmoud Nasr, Hoda Farouk Zahran

Objective: To demonstrate the technical feasibility of the reuse of agricultural drainage water for irrigation. Methods: The agricultural drainage water near Banjar El-Sokar, Borg El-Arab City, Alexandria, Egypt was collected. The measured heavy metals in the drainage water were compared with the permissible levels stated in environmental regulations, Law No. 48 of 1982 concerning the protection of the Nile River and waterways from pollution. Results: Heavy metals and trace elements were detected in this agricultural drainage water as following: Al (1.64 mg/L), Ca (175.00 mg/L), Cd (1.87 mg/L), Co (2.23 mg/L), Cu (1.71 mg/L), Fe (1.64 mg/L), K (20.50 mg/L), and Pb (2.81 mg/L). According to allowable limits, item such as Fe is lower than permissible level of 3.00 mg/L, while Pb and Cu are higher than 0.10 mg/L and 1.00 mg/L, respectively. Conclusions: Vegetables irrigated with such drainage water are not safe for human and animal consumption. Accordingly, the study suggests and recommeds remediation of drainage water using physical, chemical and/or biological methods.

85-90

Authors: Hirokazu Kimura, Hiroyuki Tsukagoshi, Akihide Ryo, Yoshiroh Oda, Toshinobu Kawabata, Takashi Majima, Kunihisa Kozawa, Masayuki Shimojima

Ebola virus disease (EVD) is a life-threatening viral disease with a fatality rate ranging from around 30% to 90%. The first EVD outbreak was reported in the 1970s in Zaire (now the Democratic Republic of the Congo). Until 2013, most outbreaks occurred in the Central Africa region, including Zaire, Sudan and Uganda. However, between March and October 2014, over 10 000 cases of EVD have been recorded in West Africa, such as in Guinea, Liberia, Sierra Leone, and Nigeria, and a few hospital or secondary infections of EVD have occurred in Spain and the United States of America. EVD is presently one of the world's most feared diseases. In this literature review, we describe the epidemiology, clinical features, diagnosis, and treatment of EVD.

98-105

Authors: Vishwas Rao Methari, Thipramalai Thankappan Ajith Kumar, Mohideen Abdul Badhul Haq, Chinna Raja, Sheik Mohamed

Objective: To determine the physiological and ecological responses of marine ornamental fishes to the change of water temperature with its potential effects on the growth, survival and feeding in clown fish. Methods: Three different sea anemone fish (Premnas biaculeatus, Amphiprion clarkii, Amphiprion akallopisos) were reared in confinement at water temperatures of 26, 28, 30, 32, and 34 oC using thermostat and they were maintained up to the marketable size, and growth, survival and feeding were evaluated during the experimental period. Results: The results illustrated that water temperature influenced the physiological performance of juveniles of three different sea anemone fish significantly. The growth and survival rates of juveniles of three different clown fish significantly increased with the increase of water temperature from 26 oC to 34 oC (P<0.05). Water temperature also influenced the feeding of three different clown fish significantly with feed conversion ratio increased from (0.071依0.020), (0.075依0.030) and (0.079依0.028) to (0.057依0.040), (0.047依0.030) and (0.045依0.028) for Premnas biaculeatus, Amphiprion clarkii and Amphiprion akallopisos respectively with increase of water temperature from 26 oC to 34 oC (P<0.05). Specific growth rates (P<0.05) increased significantly with increase of water temperature and positively correlated with the feed conversion ratio, indicating that growth rates are significantly increased with increase of temperature. Conclusions: This study deliberately reveals that the physiological response of juveniles of clown fish as the change of water temperature and substantiated that water temperature influenced juvenile growth, survival and feeding significantly. This study also put forward that the reduced growth, survival and feeding of juveniles at lower temperature which have ecological impacts on clown fish juveniles in settlement and population replacement in the wild.

109-112

Authors: Mohammad Forouhar Vajargah, Hassan Rezaei

Objective: To determine the acute toxicity of trichlorophon (an organ phosphorus compound used in agricultural fields and a common disinfectant used for fish diseases) towards two ornamental fish Systomus tetrazona and Hemigrammus erythrozonus. Methods: In this research, two aquarium fish were exposed to different concentrations of trichlorophon (5, 10, 20 and 40 mg/L) for 96 h and physicochemical properties of water used for these experiments were stable and every mortality was recorded daily for 96 h. LC50 of 24 h, 48 h, 72 h and 96 h were attained by probit analysis software SPSS version 16. Results: The 96-h LC50 of trichlorophon for Systomus tetrazona and Hemigrammus erythrozonus were 8.74 and 8.88 mg/L, respectively. Conclusions: Eventually, toxicity values indicated that trichlorophon has the same toxicity towards the studied species and the lower value of LC50 for studied species in comparison with that of most species can be stated.

122-125

Authors: Puthamohan Vinayaga Moorthi, Chelliah Balasubramanian

Objective: To evaluate the antibacterial efficiency of the seaweed, Sargassum muticum (S. muticum) collected from Pudumadam, Ramanathapuram, Tamil Nadu, India. Methods: Crude solvent extracts of S. muticum were obtained by using Soxhlet extraction and the solvents like acetone, methanol and chloroform. These different extracts were tested against different human bacterial pathogens such as Micrococcus sp., Staphylococcus aureus (methicillin resistance), Salmonella paratyphi B, Staphylococcus epidermis (3615), Enterobacter aerogenus (111), Klebsiella pneumonia (109), Shigella fleschneri (1457) (S. fleschneri), Proteus vulgaris (1771), Staphylococcus aureus (96) and Salmonella typhymurium (SP7) which were obtained from Microbial Type Culture Collection, Indian Institute of Microbial Technology, Chandigarh, India. Results: The results revealed that acetone extract had unveiled the maximum of 11 mm zone of inhibition at 40 μL against S. fleschneri. Similar zone of inhibition (11 mm) was also observed at 50 μL against Micrococcus sp. and S. fleschneri. Followed by acetone extract, chloroform extract also contributed 11 mm zone of inhibition against S. fleschneri and Salmonella paratyphi B at 40 and 50 μL respectively. Besides, methanol extracts revealed meager antibacterial activity (9 mm). Conclusions: The present investigation suggests that the phytochemical constituent of the S. muticum might be suitable agents for the control of human deadly diseases.

132-138

Authors: Godswill Nduka Anyasor, Onajobi Funmilayo, Osilesi Odutola, Adebawo Olugbenga, Efere Martins Oboutor

Objective: To evaluate the anti-inflammatory activity of a tropical African medicinal plant, Costus afer (C. afer) Ker Gawl. in vitro and identify the chemical constituents in the most active fraction. Methods: Hexane, ethyl acetate, n-butanol and aqueous fractions obtained through successive solvent partitioning of 70% methanolic leaf or stem extracts of C. afer were subjected to in vitro anti-inflammatory screening assays viz. anti-denaturation of protein, stabilization of human red blood cell (HRBC) membrane against hypotonicity-induced hemolysis and anti-proteinase activities. Diclofenac sodium was used as a standard drug. The chemical compounds in the most active fraction were determined using quantitative phytochemical and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC/MS) analytical methods, comparing the mass spectra of the GC/MS identified compounds with those of the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) database library. Results: The hexane fraction of C. afer leaf (HFCAL) with an IC50 of 33.36 μg/mL, 33 μg/mL and 212.77 μg/mL exhibited the highest anti-denaturation of protein, stabilization of HRBC membrane and anti-proteinase activities respectively when compared with other test fractions. The GC/MS identified compounds in HFCAL known to possess anti-inflammatory property were terpenoids (naphthalene 1,6-dimethyl-; naphthalene 2,3-dimethyl-; phytol), phenol [phenol 2,4-bis(1,1-dimethylethyl)], coumaran [2(4H)-benzofuranone, 5,6,7,7a-tetrahydro-4, 4,7atrimethyl and fatty acids (pentadecanoic acid; hexadecanoic acid; n-hexadecanoic acid; 9,12-octadecanoic acid-methyl ester; 9,12,15 octadecatrienoic acid and cis-vaccenic acid)]. Conclusion: Therefore, HFCAL could be considered as a potential source of antiinflammatory agents for herbal formulation or pharmaceutical drug production.

146-149

Authors: Nwoha Rosemary Ijeoma Ogechi, Omamegbe Joseph Omolathebu

Objective: To investigate clinical signs in Trypanosoma brucei infection in albino rats. Methods: Fourteen rats grouped into 2 with 7 rats in each group were used to determine classical clinical manifestation of Trypanosoma brucei infection in rats. Group A rats were uninfected control and Group B rats were infected with Trypanosoma brucei. Results: Parasitaemia was recorded in Group B by (3.86±0.34) d and the peak of parasitaemia was observed at Day 5 post infection. Classical signs observed included squint eyes, raised whiskers, lethargy, no weight loss, pyrexia, isolation from the other rats, and starry hair coat. Conclusions: These signs could be diagnostic or aid in diagnosis of Trypanosoma brucei infection in rats.

158-161

Authors: Muhammad Nasimullah Qureshi, Fazal Wajid, Inayat-ur-Rahman

Objective: To investigate quantification of methyl esters of fatty acids in the oil extracted from Physalis minima (P. minima) using gas chromatography-mass spectrometer. Methods: Oil was extracted from the shade dried plant with n-hexane through Soxhlet extraction. Fatty acids that present in the oil were derivatized to fatty acid methyl esters and analysed through gas chromatography-mass spectrometer. Results: A total of nine fatty acids were detected in quantifiable amount in the oil. Both the saturated fatty acids and unsaturated fatty acids were identified. Palmitic acid was found in the highest concentration as 46.83%. Linoleic acid (ω-6) and linolenic acid (ω-3) were obtained in appreciable amount as 16.98% and 14.80% respectively among the unsaturated fatty acids in the oil under study. From the literature review, it appeared that fatty acids were determined for the first time in the oil of P. minima. Conclusions: Presence of these important fatty acids in high amount makes P. minima oil beneficial for health, which can be used in the preparation of phytopharmaceutical or pharmaceutical preparations. Moreover, the results of this study are useful for the phytopharmaceutical industries to establish their quality control profile.

166-168

Authors: Jacob Mathew Jr.

As more people flock to coastal areas such as Hawaii for vacation, many may find themselves coming into contact with coral reef for the first time. Whether it’s through snorkeling, swimming, scuba diving, or surfing, the reef can pose a serious danger to anyone not familiar with this delicate life form. While it may appear to be a rock, it is actually a living creature that is home to multiple strains of bacteria. These bacteria can quickly invade injuries sustained from contacting reef, leading to tissue infections ultimately require surgical intervention. In this review, we provide a background on coral reef and its common associated injuries. As there are no evidenced based treatments currently available, anecdotal interventions can be considered.