World Journal of Pharmacy and Biotechnology
Phytochemical screening and in-vitro antidiabetic activity of ethanolic extract of hydrocharis laevigata humb bonpl Ex willd Byng christenh
Diabetes mellitus is a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by persistent hyperglycaemia resulting from defects in insulin secretion, insulin action, or both. The present study was designed to evaluate the phytochemical constituents and in vitro antidiabetic activity of the ethanolic extract of Hydrocharis laevigata. The plant material was collected, authenticated, and subjected to Soxhlet extraction using ethanol. Preliminary phytochemical screening revealed the presence of various bioactive compounds such as alkaloids, flavonoids, phenols, tannins, glycosides, saponins, steroids, terpenoids, and carbohydrates. The in vitro antidiabetic activity was assessed using α-amylase and α-glucosidase inhibition assays. The ethanolic extract exhibited significant dose-dependent inhibitory activity. In the α-amylase assay, inhibition ranged from 21.01% to 49.12%, while α-glucosidase inhibition ranged from 20.04% to 41.29% at concentrations of 20–100 µg/ml. The activity was comparable to the standard drug acarbose. These findings suggest that Hydrocharis laevigata possesses promising antidiabetic potential and could serve as a natural therapeutic agent for the management of postprandial hyperglycaemia.
Copyright (c) 2019 Author https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Phytochemical Analysis and Biological Evaluation of Muntingia calabura Leaf Extracts
The crude extract of Muntingia calabura (M. calabura) was subjected to preliminary phytochemical screening, which confirmed the presence of various bioactive constituents, including steroids, flavonoids, saponins, tannins, and carbohydrates. Among the different extracts, the aqueous extract exhibited the highest concentration of these phytoconstituents. High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) analysis revealed that β-sitosterol (46.33%) and stigmasterol (53.67%) were the predominant phytosterols present in the extract. Further investigation focused on the effect of β-sitosterol on GLUT-4 expression and glucose uptake in C2C12 myotube cells. The findings demonstrated a significant upregulation of GLUT-4 expression, which enhanced glucose uptake and indicated its potential role in maintaining glucose homeostasis. In addition, β-sitosterol was also found to influence GLUT-6 expression, suggesting a non-specific modulatory effect of the plant-derived compound. These results indicate that M. calabura exhibits notable antidiabetic activity, primarily attributed to its phytosterol content. The phytosterols were found to stimulate GLUT-4 translocation to the cell membrane and may act either independently or synergistically to enhance its epigenetic expression. The improved GLUT-4 translocation suggests the potential of M. calabura in correcting defects associated with insulin-mediated glucose transport, thereby highlighting its promise as a therapeutic agent in diabetes management. Moreover, the ability of β-sitosterol and structurally related compounds such as stigmasterol to modulate GLUT protein expression at the genetic level indicates a broader regulatory influence on glucose metabolism. Overall, the study underscores the therapeutic potential of M. calabura in the management of both insulin-dependent and insulin-independent diabetes mellitus.
Copyright (c) 2020 Author https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Preparation and Evaluation of Herbal Scar Powder
Herbal formulations have gained significant attention due to their safety, efficacy, and minimal side effects compared to synthetic agents. The present study focuses on the preparation and evaluation of a polyherbal scar powder composed of sandalwood powder, turmeric powder, neem leaf powder, licorice root powder, and multani mitti (Fuller’s earth). These ingredients are traditionally known for their anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and skin-rejuvenating properties. The formulation was prepared using simple blending techniques and evaluated for physicochemical parameters such as organoleptic properties, particle size, pH, moisture content, and stability. The results indicated that the herbal scar powder possesses desirable characteristics and shows potential in reducing scars, pigmentation, and improving skin texture. This study supports the use of herbal remedies as an effective and economical alternative for scar management.
Copyright (c) 2026 Author https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Gastrointestinal Motility Patterns: Mechanisms, Disorders, and Emerging Therapeutic Targets
Gastrointestinal (GI) motility is a complex, coordinated process essential for digestion, nutrient absorption, immune regulation, and waste elimination. Proper motility depends on the integrated function of smooth muscle layers, the enteric nervous system (ENS), hormonal signaling, and interstitial cells of Cajal (ICC). Disruption of these mechanisms results in clinically significant motility disorders such as achalasia, gastroparesis, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and chronic intestinal pseudo-obstruction. Advances in diagnostic tools including high-resolution manometry, wireless motility capsules, electrogastrography, and imaging modalities have enhanced understanding of physiological and pathological motility patterns. Emerging research highlights the importance of the gut-brain axis, immune signaling, microbiome interactions, and molecular pathways in regulating gastrointestinal function. This review summarizes normal motility patterns, regulatory mechanisms, pathophysiology of motility disorders, current pharmacological approaches, and future therapeutic targets.
Pharmacological Evaluation of Selected Medicinal Plants and Isolation of Active Compounds
The present study was undertaken to isolate, characterize, and evaluate bioactive phytoconstituents from the bark of Cordia dichotoma, a medicinal plant widely used in traditional systems of medicine. Medicinal plants serve as an important source of therapeutic agents due to the presence of diverse secondary metabolites such as alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, and phenolic compounds, which exhibit significant pharmacological activities. The bark of Cordia dichotoma was collected, authenticated, and subjected to pharmacognostic and physicochemical evaluation to establish its identity, purity, and quality. Successive solvent extraction was carried out using petroleum ether, chloroform, ethyl acetate, and ethanol. Among the extracts obtained, the ethanolic extract showed the highest yield and was rich in phytoconstituents. Preliminary phytochemical screening confirmed the presence of various bioactive compounds including alkaloids, flavonoids, glycosides, tannins, and phenolic compounds. Further analysis through thin-layer chromatography (TLC) and spectroscopic techniques such as FTIR enabled the identification and characterization of isolated compounds, including naringenin chalcone and bopindolol. Quantitative estimation revealed that the ethanolic extract possessed the highest total polyphenolic and flavonoid content, indicating strong antioxidant potential. The antioxidant activity was evaluated using DPPH assay, where the extract exhibited significant free radical scavenging activity comparable to standard ascorbic acid. Additionally, in vitro studies demonstrated promising anti-asthmatic activity of the extract by inhibiting histamine-induced contractions. The overall findings validate the traditional use of Cordia dichotoma and highlight its potential as a natural source of bioactive compounds for therapeutic applications.
A Review on Clinical Features of Tomato Flu Virus
Tomato flu is an emerging viral illness reported mainly in children under five years of age in India, characterized by fever and distinctive red, tomato-like vesicular lesions. It is likely associated with enteroviral infections, particularly Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease. Transmission occurs through close contact, respiratory droplets, and contaminated surfaces. The disease presents with nonspecific symptoms, making differential diagnosis important to distinguish it from infections such as dengue, chikungunya, and varicella. Diagnosis is primarily clinical, and management is supportive, including hydration, antipyretics, and isolation. Although generally self-limiting with a favorable prognosis, preventive measures such as hygiene practices and infection control are essential to limit spread. Further research is needed to better understand its etiology, improve diagnostic approaches, and develop targeted therapies.
A Prospective Study on Assessment of Surgical and Pharmacotherapeutic Treatment Pattern in Women with Endometriosis in a Tertiary Care Hospital
Introduction: Endometriosis is a female reproductive system disorder where the endometrium-like tissue develops outside of the uterus; it usually affects the ovaries and peritoneum, causing premenstrual discomfort and dysmenorrhea. Aim: The study aimed to assess Surgical and Pharmacotherapeutic treatment pattern in women with endometriosis in a tertiary care hospital. Methodology: The prospective observational study was carried out for a period of 6 months. The study was conducted in Gynecology department in a tertiary care hospital. A written and informed consent was obtained from the recruited patients. A Total of 45 patients were enrolled in the study. Results and Discussion: In our study female patients were more 25 (55.55 %) compared to male patients 20(44.445%). In our study rural area patients were more 26(57.77 %), compared to urban area patients were 19 (42.22 %). Risk factors of Endometriosis includes Irregular menstrual cycle patients were more 18 (40%) compared to other risk factors. Drug prescribing pattern for endometriosis includes NSAIDs prescribed patients were more 10 (22.22%), compared to other drugs. Conclusion: The study concludes that periodic drug prescribing must be verified to promote rational and optimal use of healthcare resources. The effective clinical intervention programme are required to promote more appropriate use of drugs.
Formulation and Evaluation of a Polyherbal Refreshing Drink with Antioxidant Potential
The consumption of carbonated soft drinks containing high levels of sugar, artificial additives, and preservatives has been associated with various health problems including obesity, metabolic syndrome, and dental disorders. Herbal refreshing drinks represent a promising alternative as functional beverages that provide hydration along with therapeutic benefits derived from medicinal plants. The present study aimed to formulate and evaluate a polyherbal refreshing drink using selected medicinal herbs such as Mentha piperita, Ocimum sanctum, Zingiber officinale, Emblica officinalis, Citrus limon, Vaccinium myrtillus, and Citrus reticulata. Three formulations (F1, F2, and F3) were prepared by varying the concentrations of herbal extracts and sweetening agents. The formulations were evaluated for organoleptic characteristics, physicochemical parameters, phytochemical constituents, antioxidant activity using DPPH assay, and microbiological safety. The results revealed that all formulations exhibited acceptable sensory and physicochemical properties with pH ranging from 4.2 to 4.8 and total soluble solids between 8–12 °Brix. Phytochemical screening confirmed the presence of flavonoids, tannins, phenolic compounds, terpenoids, and alkaloids. Antioxidant evaluation demonstrated significant radical scavenging activity, with F3 showing the highest inhibition (82%), followed by F2 (74%). Microbiological analysis confirmed that all formulations were within permissible microbial limits. Among the tested formulations, F2 demonstrated the best balance between antioxidant potential and sensory acceptability. The developed polyherbal refreshing drink can serve as a natural functional beverage and a healthier alternative to synthetic soft drinks.
Development and Evaluation of Nigella sativa L. Topical Cosmeceutical Formulations with Antiacne Activity
The inflammation of the skin's sebaceous follicles is the cause of acne vulgaris. Certain bacterial species, such as Propionibacterium acnes, Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis, are responsible for its initiation. Novel therapeutic treatments for acne vulgaris must be introduced due to the development of antibiotic resistance by these microorganisms and side effects from the present treatment regimens. In order to create new gel formulations from Nigella sativa L. seeds and assess their antibacterial efficacy against certain bacterial species that cause acne, this study was conducted. Using the agar well diffusion technique, the antibacterial activity of seed extracts was first tested against S. aureus and P. acnes. After that, topical gels were created using three distinct strengths of N. sativa seed ethyl acetate extract. The stability of these topical formulations was assessed over a 30-day period, and antibacterial activity experiments were conducted S. aureus and P. acnes growth was inhibited by all three formulations; however, the formulation containing 15% of the seed extract exhibited the most antibacterial action. Remarkably, this formulation's antibacterial efficacy against S. aureus outperformed that of the commercial synthetic product that served as the positive control. Furthermore, the antibacterial efficacy was maintained during the storage period, and no changes in color, odor, homogeneity, washability, consistency, or pH were seen. Topical gel formulations made from N. sativa ethyl acetate extract have strong antibacterial activity, indicating their potential as substitutes for current antiacne medications in the treatment of acne vulgaris.
A Study on Assessment of Corticosteroid Drug Induced Psychosis and Treatment Based Outcomes
Introduction: Corticosteroids are integral to treatment across various medical domains. They are synthetic analogs of natural steroid hormones produced by the adrenal cortex like glucocorticoids (GCs), mineralocorticoids and sexual hormones. Aim: The study aimed to assess corticosteroid drug induced psychosis and treatment based outcomes. Methodology: The prospective observational study was carried out for a period of 6 months. The study was conducted in General Medicine department in a tertiary care hospital. A written and informed consent was obtained from the recruited patients. A Total of 85 patients were enrolled in the study. Results & Discussion: In our study 46-55 years age patients were more 33(28.82%) compared to other ages. In our study Male patients were more 51 (60 %), compared to Female patients were 34(40 %). The oral route drug administration patients were more 56 (65.88%), compared to parenteral route drug administration patients were 29(34.11%). The Management of steroid drug induced psychosis includes Psychological support patients were more 39(45.88%) compare to Psychological therapy patients were 22(25.88%), Psychological interventions patients were 24(28.23%). The Treatment for steroid drug induced psychosis includes Lithium prescribed patients were more 25 (29.41%) compare to other prescribed drugs. Conclusion: The effective diagnosis primarily involves excluding other potential causes, while prevention primarily focuses on minimizing dosages and avoiding the unnecessary prolongation of drug treatment. Although steroid-induced psychosis can typically be managed by tapering and discontinuing the offending steroid, patients may still experience persistent mood disturbances and psychosis.
Current Perspectives on Urolithiasis: Etiology, Clinical Presentation, Therapeutic Advances & Anti-Urolithiatic Evaluation Methods
Urolithiasis is a prevalent urinary tract disorder marked by the formation of stones in the kidneys or other parts of the urinary system. Its incidence is rising worldwide due to lifestyle changes, dietary habits, climatic factors and metabolic abnormalities. Kidney stones are seen about twice as often in men compared to women. Stone formation is a multifactorial process involving urinary supersaturation, crystal nucleation, growth, aggregation and retention within renal tissues. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the etiology, epidemiology, types of stones and mechanism of stone formation, diagnosis and current alternative treatment approaches for Urolithiasis such as surgical interventions, pharmacotherapy and phytotherapy, in-vivo and in-vitro evaluation models of urolithiasis. Various dietary and lifestyle modifications have potential to prevent urolithiasis and recurrences. The diagnostic methods and preventive approaches along with complete removal of stones will improve the management of urolithiasis. In vitro and in vivo evaluation methods for urolithiasis help researchers better understand stone formation and support the development of effective antiurolithiatic compounds.
Phytopharmacological Profiling of Linum Usitatissimum.L (Flax Seeds)-A Comprehensive Review
Linum usitatissimum L., commonly known as flaxseed or linseed, is a widely utilized medicinal and nutritional plant belonging to the family Linaceace. It has been traditionally consumed for its laxative, anti-inflammatory, and cardioprotective properties and has gained significant scientific attention due to its rich phytochemical composition. Flaxseeds are a valuable source of omega-3 fatty acids (alpha-linolenic acid,) lignans (secoisolariciresinol diglucoside), dietary fibers, proteins, phenolic acids, flavonoids, carotenoids, vitamins, and essential minerals. This review comprehensively summarizes the plant profile, phytochemistry and pharmacological activities of flaxseeds based on in vitro, in vivo, and in silico studies. Experimental and clinical evidence highlights their beneficial effects in the management of cardiovascular diseases, hyperlipidemia, diabetes mellitus, hypertension, obesity, inflammatory disorders, cancer, renal disorders and postmenopausal complications. The multifaceted pharmacological actions of flaxseeds are primarily attributed to their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, hypoglycemic, hypolipidemic, and hormone-modulating properties. Overall, flaxseeds represent a promising nutraceutical with significant therapeutic potential for the prevention and management of chronic metabolic and degenerative diseases
RP-HPLC Method Development and Validation for the Simultaneous Estimation of Remogliflozin and Vildagliptin in Bulk and Pharmaceutical Dosage Form
A new method was established for simultaneous estimation of Remogliflozin and Vildagliptin by RP-HPLC method. The chromatographic conditions were successfully developed for the separation of Remogliflozin and Vildagliptin by using Agilent C18 column (4.6×150mm) 5µ, flow rate was 1ml/min, mobile phase ratio was (70:30v/v) methanol: phosphate buffer (KH2PO4and K2HPO4) phosphate pH 3 (pH was adjusted with orthophosphoricacid), detection wavelength was 254 nm. The retention times were found to be 3.345 mins and 2.523 mins. The % purity of Remogliflozin and Vildagliptin was found to be 99.87% and 100.27% respectively. The system suitability parameters for Remogliflozin and Vildagliptin such as theoretical plates and tailing factor were found to be 2885, 1.27 and 2235 and 1.3, the resolution was found to be 3.4. The analytical method was validated according to ICH guidelines (ICH, Q2 (R1)). Hence the suggested RP-HPLC method can be used for routine analysis of Remogliflozin and Vildagliptin in API and Pharmaceutical dosage form.
Copyright (c) 2024 Author https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Evaluation of cardioprotective activity of Ethanolic Extract of Cordia sebestinato against myocardial infarction
Intake of diets rich in antioxidant from medicinal plants have been reported to be associated with reduced risk of cardiovascular diseases. The present study was aimed to appraise the protective role of Cordia sebestinato leaf extract in isoproterenol-induced myocardial infarction in rats. Subcutaneous injection of isoproterenol (85 mg/kg) to male albino Wistar rats, exhibited a significant raise in the levels/activities of cardiac marker such as The present study reveals that ISO treatment resulted in marked elevation in the level of cardiac marker enzymes like CK-MB, AST, ALT, LDH and ALP in serum, serum lipid profiles such as HDL, LDL, VLDL,TGA, and Cholesterol are observed such that there is marked decrease in the levels of HDL in ISO treated group was observed. Pretreatment with Cordia sebestinato (200 and 400 mg/kg) daily for a period of 31days positively altered the activities of cardiac markers and other biochemical parameters to isoproterenol-induced rats. Thus, the results of our study demonstrate that Cordia sebestinato possess cardioprotective role against experimentally induced cardiac toxicity.
Copyright (c) 2017 Author https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Development and Evaluation of Ophthalmic Drug Delivery System for Glaucoma
This study aimed to develop ocuserts of Pefloxacin mesylate using various polymers (PVA, HPMC, PVP, and HEC) through solvent casting. The resulting films were smooth and transparent, although variations in thickness were observed. The formulation PD3, containing HEC, demonstrated high moisture absorption, while PA1 exhibited moisture loss. The ocuserts had a thickness ranging from 0.14±0.022mm to 0.225±0.045mm and weights from 10.14±0.12mg to 17.25±0.11mg. In vitro drug release studies of PD3 indicated prolonged release, with approximately 47.2% of the drug released within 12 hours, following zero-order kinetics. Ex vivo studies of PD3 showed a release of approximately 51.3%. The developed ocuserts displayed controlled release properties and uniform characteristics, suggesting their potential as an effective ophthalmic delivery system for Pefloxacin mesylate, reducing dosing frequency and improving patient compliance.
Copyright (c) 2025 Author https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Analytical Method for Simultaneous Estimation of Lumacftor and Ivacaftor in Pharamaceutical Dosage Form by Using RP-HPLC
A simple, precise, and robust reverse-phase high-performance liquid chromatography (RP-HPLC) method was developed and validated for the simultaneous estimation of Lumacaftor and Ivacaftor in bulk and pharmaceutical dosage forms in compliance with ICH Q2(R1) guidelines. Chromatographic separation was performed using an Agilent C18 column (4.5 × 150 mm, 5.0 µm) with a mobile phase of methanol and phosphate buffer (70:30 v/v) at a flow rate of 1.0 mL/min, and detection at 254 nm. The method exhibited excellent system suitability parameters, with a resolution of 5.23, tailing factors <2, and plate counts exceeding 2000 for both drugs. Linearity was established over the range of 20–100 µg/mL for Lumacaftor and 12.5–62.5 µg/mL for Ivacaftor, with correlation coefficients of 0.9996 and 0.9999, respectively. Precision studies showed %RSD values below 0.5%, and accuracy tests confirmed recoveries of 99.5% for Lumacaftor and 100.3% for Ivacaftor, all within the acceptance range of 98–102%. The limits of detection (LOD) were found to be 0.66 µg/mL and 0.44 µg/mL, while the limits of quantification (LOQ) were 2.28 µg/mL and 1.50 µg/mL for Lumacaftor and Ivacaftor, respectively. Robustness studies indicated no significant variation in performance with small deliberate changes in chromatographic conditions. The validated method is accurate, specific, sensitive, and reliable, making it suitable for routine quality control, regulatory compliance, and batch release testing of Lumacaftor and Ivacaftor in pharmaceutical formulations.
Application of Quality by Design (QBD) to the Development and Valiadtion of Ensitrelvir Fumeric Acid in Tablet Dosage form by RP-HPLC
This study aimed to develop mouth-disintegrating tablets of Flurbiprofen through a straightforward and scalable direct compression method, accompanied by a reliable UV-Visible spectrophotometric assay for drug analysis. The optimized UV method, performed in 0.1N HCl, identified a maximum absorbance at 257nm, enabling accurate quantification of Flurbiprofen within tablet formulations. Tablets were formulated using common super disintegrants sodium starch glycolate, crospovidone, and croscarmellose sodium and evaluated for critical quality characteristics such as hardness, friability, weight variation, and drug content, all of which met pharmacopeial standards. In vitro dissolution studies revealed rapid drug release across all batches, with the crospovidone based formulation demonstrating superior performance by releasing nearly 99% of the drug within 30 minutes. Comparative analysis confirmed that crospovidone facilitated faster dissolution compared to other super disintegrants under the test conditions. The study successfully achieved the goal of formulating efficient, patient-friendly Flurbiprofen mouth-disintegrating tablets with minimal excipients and a simple manufacturing approach, supported by a practical and robust analytical method for quality assurance.
Development, Optimization and Evaluation of Ziprasidone Hydrochloride Fast Dissolving Tablet by Solid Dispersion Method
Formulation and Evaluation of Enteric Coated Tablet of Dexlansoprazole
Dexlansoprazole is a proton pump inhibitor requiring precise quantification and optimized formulation for effective therapeutic outcomes. This study aimed to develop a reliable analytical method and formulate enteric-coated capsules with enhanced dissolution and controlled release profiles. A UV-Visible spectrophotometric method was developed and validated using 6.8 phosphate buffer, measuring absorbance at 238 nm across 2 to 10 µg/ml concentrations. Solid dispersions of Dexlansoprazole with HP-β-cyclodextrin were prepared to improve solubility. Powder blends were evaluated for flow and compressibility prior to direct compression of enteric-coated capsules. Post-compression parameters and in vitro dissolution profiles were assessed. The spectrophotometric method showed excellent linearity and precision. Solid dispersions significantly increased dissolution rates, with over 90% drug release within an hour. The powder blends exhibited consistent flow properties suitable for manufacturing. Capsules met pharmacopeial standards concerning weight variation, thickness, friability, drug content, and hardness. In vitro dissolution demonstrated sustained and nearly complete drug release over 12 hours. Kinetic analyses indicated a diffusion-controlled release mechanism involving anomalous transport. The study successfully formulated robust Dexlansoprazole enteric-coated capsules with enhanced dissolution and controlled release characteristics, indicating potential for improved therapeutic efficacy and patient compliance.
A Review on Bipolar Disorders and Future Recommendations for Its Management in the Community
Bipolar disorders include bipolar I disorder, bipolar II disorder, cyclothymic disorder, other specified bipolar and related disorders, and bipolar or related disorders, unspecified. Bipolar disorder is often difficult to recognize because symptoms overlap with other psychiatric disorders, psychiatric and somatic comorbidity is common, and patients may lack insight into their conditions, particularly hypomania. People with bipolar disorder‐II typically have their first encounter with the treatment system due to depression, which accounts for over 80% of the time ill. Bipolar I disorder starts on average at 18 years and bipolar II disorder at 22 years. The National Comorbidity Study showed onset typically between 18 and 44, with higher rates between 18 and 34 than 35 and 54. Bipolar disorder's precise causes are not fully understood. However, research suggests that a combination of genetic, environmental, and neurochemical factors contributes to the development of the disorder. Bipolar disorder is characterized by alternating episodes of mania or hypomania and depression. The symptoms can vary in intensity and duration, and individuals with bipolar disorder may also experience periods of stable mood. Bipolar disorder cannot be entirely avoided. To stop bipolar disorder or other mental health conditions from getting worse, treatment should be sought as soon as a mental health disorder manifests. Bipolar disorder is typically treated with a regimen of drugs, psychotherapy, and lifestyle changes. The goal of treatment is to stabilize mood, manage symptoms, prevent relapses, and improve overall functioning. The specific treatment plan depends on the individual's unique needs and the severity of their symptoms. There is a need for crucial plan and to work closely with a qualified healthcare professional, such as a psychiatrist, to develop and maintain an effective treatment regimen would minimize the bipolar disorders progression in the community.
The nail unit is a dynamic complex which forms an important part of the integument. This complex consists of the nail matrix (NM), nail bed (NB), hyponychium, nail fold (NF) and the nail plate (NP). Psoriasis is a cutaneous disorder that causes increased cell proliferation and affects skin and nails. Nail psoriasis is the most common nail disorder that is associated with pitting, leukonychia, ‘oil drop’ (salmon patches), nail bed hyperkeratosis and cutaneous psoriasis. Topical therapy of nail psoriasis consists of high-potency corticosteroids applied around and under the nail with or without occlusion and other treatments such as PUVA (psoralen plus ultraviolet light of the A wavelength), methotrexate, cyclosporin, or etretinate are also available. The present review gives information about the different psoriatic conditions of the nail along with the treatment procedure.
Copyright (c) 2014 Author https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Past Decade work done on fast Dissolving Oral Films
The most popular oral solid dosage forms are tablets and capsules. Many patients find it difficult to swallow tablets and hard gelatin capsules particularly pediatric and geriatric patients and do not take their medicines as prescribed because difficulty in swallowing. To overcome these difficulties, several fast dissolving drug delivery systems have been developed. Fast dissolving oral film is relatively a new dosage form in which thin film is prepared using hydrophilic polymers, which rapidly dissolves on tongue or buccal cavity. An ideal film should be prepared by using different ingredients. A study on different polymers, sweeteners, plasticizers, solubilizers used for fast dissolving oral films are done.
Environmental Conservation: Key to Sustainable Development
The blue planet which is gifted by all suitable situations for life is currently struggling for its existence mainly due to various anthrapogenic actions. Forests are disappearing at a rapid pace. For years the forest resources have been exploited for quick revenue return. Mining is another cause of deforestation due to which there is loss of bio­diversity and ecological imbalance. To achieve the goals of sustainable development, participation of public is must which is possible only when the public is aware about the ecological and environmental issues. Two key aspects for sustainable development are Inter-generational equity and Intra-generational equity. Inter-generational equity emphasizes that we should hand over a safe, healthy and resourceful environment to our future generations. This can be possible only if we stop over-exploitation of resources, reduce waste discharge and emissions and maintain ecological balance.
Phytochemicial Screening and Antibacterial Property of Centella Asiatica (Linn).
The use of medicinal plants as a source for relief from illness can be traced back over five millennia from start of human civilization. Medicinal plant represents a rich source of antimicrobial agents. Plants are used as also a source of many potent and power full drugs. Historically pharmacological screening of compounds of natural or synthetic origin has been the source of innumerable therapeutic agents. A wide range of medicinal plant parts is used for extract as raw drugs and they possess varied properties. The plant used for the present study was Centella asiatica. Which is a very common plant and was traditionally used for various purposes, especially as single medicinal therapy. The present study mainly focused on the phytochemical, antibacterial property of the plant Centella asiatica. The leaf and root of the plant is used for the analysis. Methanol and petroleum ether were used as solvents for preparing the extracts. The phytochemical analysis revealed that the plant Centella asiatica contains most of the important phytochemicals such as carboxylic acid, flavanoids, saponin, resin, Xanthoprotein, coumarins etc. These plant extract were also tested against three bacterial strains Pseudomonas aeroginosa, Klebisiella pneumonia, and Staphylococcus aureus. Most of the extract showed good inhibitory activity. The methanol leaf and petroleum ether root showed maximum inhibitory activity. Among the pathogens Staphylococcus aureus was most effectively inhibited by the plant extract.
Isolation and Purfication of Xylanase from Bacillus Cereus by Submerged State Fermentation
Enzymes are important classes of globular proteins of biological origin that act as biochemical catalysts. Xylanase catalyses the hydrolysis of complex sugars (xylan) to simpler sugars (xylose) and also important in bioconversion of hemicellulose into the constituents sugar. Xylanases shows great potential for industrial applications mainly for the bioconversion of lignocelluloses to sugars, ethanol and other substances, clarification of juices and wines, improving the nutritional quality of silage and green feed and the deinking process of waste papers. The soil samples were collected and the Bacillus cereus was isolated by spread plate method. The isolated organism was screened by xylan agar medium. The fermentation media was characterized based on effect of substrate feeding, effect of temperature, effect of initial pH, effect of incubation time and effect of inoculums. At optimised medium the pure culture was inoculated and shake flask and bioreactor were carried out. The germinated crude extract was collected and the enzyme activity was estimated. The crude enzyme was purified by ammonium sulphate precipitation, dialysis and ion exchange chromatography and the molecular mass of enzyme was determined by SDS PAGE. The purified enzyme was immobilized by sodium alginate entrapment method.
Biodegradation of Indigo Blue Dye using the Soil and Sludge Isolate of the Effluent Run off Site
Cloths are of high demand from centuries as it implies the personality of a human being; hence the textile industry has established a wide empire over the time. Textile industries consume large volumes of water and chemicals during manufacture and processing. Colour is the first contaminant to be recognized in textile waste water and has to be removed before discharging into water bodies or onto land. Azo dyes account for 60–80 % of the dyes consumed in the textile processing. Indigo blue dye is used mostly in all jean manufacturing textile industries. To decolourise the indigo blue dye, the soil and sludge was collected from different jean manufacturing industries in Coimbatore district. Indigo blue dye degrading organisms were screened using Zhou and Zimmerman (ZZ) screening media after serially diluting the collected samples. After screening and isolating the best dye decolouriser from the samples, optimizations of the dye degrading conditions were carried out. Different factors like temperature, pH, carbon source, nitrogen source, metallic salts, inoculam size and time course of decolourization was selected as optimization parameters. The best degrader was found to be Bacillus sp. From the optimization analysis, the suitable optimized condition for the isolate, Bacillus sp. was identified as sucrose (1%), ammonium chloride (0.25%), temperature (45oC), pH (8.0), potassium dihydrogen orthophosphate (84.96%) and inoculum dose (2%). The time required for effective decolourization (98%) of the indigo blue dye was estimated to be 48 hours. Thereby the results suggest Bacillus sp. isolated from the effluent discharge showed a potential of degrading the selected indigo dye at a faster rate and these properties are found to be useful for the bioremediation of textile industry effluent.
Status and Ecology of Sarus Crane, Grus Antigone in District Sitapur, Uttar Pradesh
The Indian Sarus Crane, Grus antigone is forced to use habitats that resemble natural wetlands, i.e. flooded paddy fields, and thus become more vulnerable. Today, the best Sarus Crane populations are found in areas which have a mix of natural wetlands in the landscape, and where the traditional major crop has been rice, e.g. as in South Western Uttar Pradesh. There are hardly any areas left in the country where pesticides are not used to improve the production of crops. As a result, deaths due to poisoning after application of pesticides are perhaps the most important threat for the state bird of Uttar Pradesh presently, next only to the destruction of its natural habitat. Because of its proximity to humans and their activities, most of the other threats that the Sarus faces also revolve around anthropogenic activities. These include removal of eggs and chicks from nests by the villagers, feral dogs, crows etc. for food when adults leave to defend territories. Sarus Crane is also considered inauspicious by the village folks and therefore they drive them away from their village. To quantify this conflict and its impact on the population, and to provide information for a management strategy to conserve the Sarus Crane particularly in an agricultural landscape, author undertook a detailed study on status and ecology of the Sarus Crane in district Sitapur.
Impact of Herbicide (Atrazine) on the Biochemical Components of the Fish, Labeo Rohita
The biochemical components like protein, carbohydrate and cholesterol were estimated quantitatively in the tissues of liver, kidney, muscle and gill of control and herbicide treated fishes. The fishes were treated with the sub lethal concentration of 3ppm for 24, 48, and 72 hours. The protein, carbohydrate and lipid level of liver, kidney, muscle and gill of the control fish was very high when compared with the treated ones. In treated fish the protein content of tissues were greatly reduced. Maximum reduction was observed at 72 hours exposure. The carbohydrate and cholesterol content of the tissues are showed similar declining trend at different exposure periods. Studies on the toxic effects of atrazine on fish have shown varied responses according to the type of species and dosages.
Effect of Lindane to enzyme activity in the tissues of Liver, Muscle and Brain of freshwater fish, Cyprinus carpio
The wide spread use of synthetic organic pesticides over decades has let to their frequent exposure in the environment. Also acute and chronic exposures of humans to pesticides occur during their commercial production and their application. Synthetic pesticides are deliberately sprayed on crops or agricultural land to increase food production but these agrochemicals are not very selective in producing their effects. They are toxic to many non-target species and contaminate the environment. Hence, a need was felt to investigate a effect of sublethal exposure of Organ chlorine pesticide Lindane to enzyme content of GOT, GPT, ALP, ACP and LDH in the liver, muscle and brain of freshwater fish Cyprinus carpio. At the end of each exposure period, fishes were sacrificed and tissues were removed and analyzed for enzyme activity. It was found that GOT, GPT and LDH increased to the maximum level (after Lindane exposure) when compared to the controls (100%) and ACP,ALP were decreased from the control at 10, 20 and 30 days in the liver, muscle and brain, respectively at LC50 exposure. The median lethal concentration was found to be 0.32 ppm.
Fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) based high throughput drug screening for the determination of antineoplastic activity of natural compounds from herbs
Objectives: In the present experiment a very useful cell-based high throughput screening method that uses a novel bio-sensor which specifically identifies apoptosis based on fluorescence resonance energy transfer technology. Methodology: A stable HeLa cell line expressing a FRET-based bio-sensor protein was produced. Cells undergoing apoptosis have an activated enzyme ‘caspase-3’ which is a protease this activated enzyme breaks sensor protein and causes the fluorescence emission spectra to shift from 590 nm to 512 nm changing color from yellowish green to blue. A reduction in the green/blue emission ratio indicated apoptosis. After growing the sensor cells in 96-well plates different chemical compounds are added to the wells wherein the fluorescent profile was measured using fluorescent plate reader. Results: It is a novel cell based HTS method and was proved to be highly effective and sensitive process for detecting anti-neoplastic compounds which induce apoptosis. In this experiment we screened compounds obtained from two plants used in Indian medicines.