MOSP - Macao Scientific Publishers

Short Communication

Evaluation of use of antibiotic without prescription among young adults

Oyetunde, Olubukola O.*, Olugbake, Olubusola A. and Famudehin, Kehinde F.

Abstract: Antibiotics are usually prescription only medicines. A high percentage of world’s antibiotics are however used in the community without prescriptions. The study evaluated use of antibiotics without prescription among young adults in Nigeria. A questionnaire was designed to assess reported purchase, name and use of antibiotic without prescription. 38.79% respondents reported purchase of an antibiotic without a prescription. Only 25.86% correctly named an antibiotic as the medicine purchased. Among the respondents who purchased an antibiotic without a prescription, 90% used medicine for inadequate duration (< 5days) or at wrong dosing intervals. The most commonly named antibiotic purchased without a prescription is Ampiclox®. It is important to enforce regulation and sales of antibiotic to ensure rational use.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Misuse, self-prescription, antibiotics.

Int. J. Pharm. & Pharmacol. 2015, 6(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Tissue distribution of intramuscularly and intratumouraly administered DNA plasmid harbouring apoptotic gene in mice

Ruzila I., Zeenathul N. A.*, Nik-Mohd- Afizan N. A. R., Sheikh-Omar A. R., NorHidayah M. and Mohd-Azmi M. L.

Abstract: This study investigated the bio-distribution and persistence of plasmid DNA following intramuscular and intratumoural administration in a mice model. Validated quantitative method (real-time qPCR) was used to quantify plasmid distribution in the tissue samples collected at 15 min, 1 h, 24 h and 1 week after administration of 100 g (1.5 x 1013 copies) of naked plasmids. Plasmids remained in the circulating blood (3.6 ± 2.2 x 102copies/500 ng gDNA) and injected muscle (2.8 ± 1.1 x 105 copies/500ng gDNA) for up to 1 week post administration. Plasmids were also detected in opposite muscle, lung, kidney, spleen, lymph nodes, liver and heart only 1 h post-injection or more. After 2 weeks of treatment, plasmids were retained solely in the tumor mass. These results suggest the presently used recombinant DNA plasmid was benefited with its early transgene expression characteristic which could release the anti-cancerous effect within short dwelling time.[...] Read More.

Keywords: DNA vaccine, recombinant plasmid, real-time PCR, biodistribution.

Int. J. Pharm. & Pharmacol. 2015, 6(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Knowledge and behavior of the pediatricians on rational use of antibiotics

Senay Cetinkaya* Yusuf Karata A. Bülent Antmen and S. Emre Alhan

Abstract: This study was performed between June 17 - 20, 2009, in order to examine knowledge, behavior and the attitudes of pediatricians, who attended the 45th Turkish Congress of Pediatrics in Cappadocia, Turkey, about rational use of antibiotics and to investigate any affecting factors. This was a descriptive study that evaluated the pediatricians’ theory about rational use of antibiotics. The survey sheet used in the study was developed by the researchers in light of information in the literature. The 77.3% of the participating physicians indicated that they did not resort to antibiotics when facing flu or common cold themselves. The rate that does not approve the antibiotic prophylaxis in upper or lower respiratory infections and the urinary system infections for an otherwise healthy individual is 65.6%. When prescribing antibiotics, 89.8% indicated that they would see the patient first, 78.1% indicated that they were prescribing according to patient’s clinical condition, 71.1% reported that they paid attention to the indication appropriateness and 67.2% indicated that they would take culture samples for microbiological examination. With the increasing work experience, there is also increase in picking the answer that suggests “use of the third generation cephalosporins should be restricted to cases whose culture positivity had been proven” (p[...] Read More.

Keywords: Antibiotics, rational use, pediatricians.

Int. J. Pharm. & Pharmacol. 2015, 6(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Ethnomedicines used for treatment of prostatic disease in Foumban, Cameroon

Noumi Emmanuel

Abstract: The medicinal plants used for the treatment of prostate diseases and related efficiency in Foumban were reviewed based on the ethnobotanic, some chemical and biochemical reports. A total of 40 plants species belonging to 29 families have been used to prepare 27 remedies, for treatment of specific prostate ailments such as prostatitis, prostatic adenoma (benign tumour hypertrophy) and cancer of prostate. Two plant species (Raphia mambillensis and Vernonia guineensis) are those widely used, the more valued being V. guineensis, called “Guinea ginseng” by traditional healers. Some of the plant species, including Allium cepa, Allium sativum, Arachis hypogaea, Carica papaya, Cucurbita pepo, Elaeis guineensis, Ipomoea batatas, Ocimum basilicum and Prunus africana are known to yield constituents treating prostate diseases.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Medicinal plants, prostatic diseases, Foumban, Cameroon.

Int. J. Pharm. & Pharmacol. 2015, 6(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Anxiolytic action and safety of Kava: Effect on rat brain acetylcholinesterase activity and some serum biochemical parameters

Neveen A. Noor

Abstract: Kava is a herbal anxiolytic drug. The present study investigates the response of central cholinergic neurotransmission to kava treatment by measuring acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity in cortex, hippocampus and striatum of adult male rats. The present study demonstrates also the effect of chronic use of kava on some liver and kidney function parameters in the sera of rats. Kava administration (75 mg/kg) induced an increase in AChE activity in the striatum after 1 week. However, significant decreases in the enzyme activity were obtained after 4 weeks of treatment in the three brain areas examined. No significant changes were observed in the enzyme activity on stopping kava administration. Kava administration for 4 weeks resulted in significant decreases in serum aspartate transaminase (AST) and alanine transaminase (ALT) activities and creatinine level, while alkaline phosphatase activity and albumin level did not show any significant changes. However, total protein and urea levels were increased significantly. In conclusion, the cholinergic system in the cortex, hippocampus and striatum may play a vital role in the anxiolytic action of kava. The present study showed no adverse effects of kava on liver and kidney function parameters.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Kava, acetylcholinesterase, cortex, hippocampus, striatum.

Int. J. Pharm. & Pharmacol. 2015, 6(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

17 -estradiol attenuates LPS-induced interleukin-8 production by human peripheral blood monocytes through estrogen receptor- activation

Full Length Research Paper

Abstract: Proper regulation of the immune response is essential for immune homeostasis. Several proinflammatory cytokines released from activated monocytes mediate inflammation, including interleukine-8 (IL -8) which recruits neutrophils to the site of inflammation. 17 -Estradiol (E2) has a direct role in the modulation of the innate immune function and mediates profound effects on immune function of the monocytes. The effects of 17 -E2 are mediated principally by two receptor subtypes, ER and ER ; both are expressed in monocytes. The aim of this study was, therefore, to characterize the estrogen receptor subtypes that mediate the estrogen effects on LPS-activated IL-8 production by human peripheral blood monocytes. 17 -E2 and PPT attenuated the production of IL- 8 by LPS-activated monocytes in a dose-dependent manner and these effects can be reversed by ICI182, 780. These results suggested a role of ER on the attenuating effect of 17 -E2 on IL-8 production by human peripheral blood monocytes.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Estrogen receptor , monocytes, interleukin 8.

Int. J. Pharm. & Pharmacol. 2015, 6(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Evaluation of the chemical composition of Mucuna utilis leaves used in herbal medicine in Southeastern Nigeria

Ujowundu C. O.*, Kalu F. N., Emejulu A. A., Okafor O. E.² Nkwonta C. G. and Nwosunjoku E. C.

Abstract: The increased interest in the biological activities of the leaves of Mucuna utilis necessitated this study which evaluated the chemical composition, especially the presence of antiphysiological and toxic factors in the leaves. The results of the phytochemical analyses were: alkaloid, 9.60 ± 0.141%; flavonoids, 4.90 ± 0.20%; saponins, 24.60 ± 1.979%; tannins, 32.55 ± 0.778% and cyanoglycosides 20.736± 0.91%.The results showed crude protein to be 31.91 ± 2.60%; carbohydrate, 53.65 ± 2.11%; crude fibre 14.80 ± 0.42%; moisture, 11.37 ± 0.632%; ash, 0.11 ± 0.01% and crude fat, 2.97 ± 0.009. The results also showed appreciable presence of macro and micro-elements, while the ascorbic acid and vitamin A contents were 25.36 ± 0.212 and 9.83 ± 0.15 mg/100 g respectively. These results showed that the leaves of M. utilis are a veritable source of useful phytochemicals of high medicinal value for human and animals. It also showed that the leaves of M. utilis can be used to fulfill the growing demands of plant-based proteins for humans and livestock and source of important minerals and nutrients. The importance of effective processing to reduce the level of toxic and inhibitory substances was emphasized.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Mucuna utilis, leaves, phytochemicals, medicinal, nutritional, toxic.

Int. J. Pharm. & Pharmacol. 2015, 6(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Evaluation of anti-hyperglycemic and free radical scavenging activity of Melothria maderaspatana Linn. in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats

S. Hemalatha*, A. K. Wahi, P. N. Singh and J.P.N. Chansouria

Abstract: The anti-hyperglycemic activity of aqueous extract of Melothria maderaspatana Linn. was evaluted in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. Free radical scavenging activity of aqueous extract of M. maderaspatana was assessed in vitro using 1, 1-diphenyl-2-picryhydrazyl (DPPH). Oral administration of aqueous extract of M. maderaspatana significantly decreased the blood glucose level in normal and streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. This extract also lowered the serum cholesterol, lipid peroxidation (LPO) and hepatic tissue LPO levels in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. M. maderaspatana showed free radical scavenging activity when assayed in an in vitro system using 1, 1-diphenyl-2-picryhydrazyl (DPPH) stable free radical. Pretreatment of M. maderaspatana failed to show any protective action against streptozotocin-induced diabetes. Aqueous extract of M. maderaspatana (2 g/kg p.o.) showed significant antihyperglycemic, hypocholesterolemic and free radical scavenging activities in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Antihyperglycermic activity, DPPH, free radical scavenging activity, LPO, Melothria maderaspatana, streptozotocin.

Int. J. Pharm. & Pharmacol. 2015, 6(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Changes in serum lipid profile following moderate exercise

Fahri Akçakoyun

Abstract: In this study, 90 middle- aged men were randomly assigned to exercise (E, n= 44) and control groups (C, n= 46) to examine the role of physical exercise on serum lipoproteins. While the exercise group participated in a 2-month training program, the control group maintained their previous exercise habits. Serum triglycerides decreased from 1.54 ± 0.10 to 1.27 ± 0.08 mmol/1 (p[...] Read More.

Keywords: Serum lipoproteins, physical exercise, middle aged men.

Int. J. Pharm. & Pharmacol. 2015, 6(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Impact of saffron as an anti-cancer and anti-tumor herb

Siavash Hosseinpour Chermahini*, Fadzilah Adibah Abd. Majid, Mohamad Roji Sarmidi, Ehsan Taghizadeh and Saleh Salehnezhad

Abstract: Cancer continues to represent the largest cause of mortality in the world and claims over 6 million lives each year. An extremely promising strategy for cancer prevention today is chemoprevention, which is defined as the use of synthetic or natural agents (alone or in combination) to block the development of cancer in human beings. Plants, vegetables, herbs and spices used in folk and traditional medicine have been accepted currently as one of the main sources of cancer chemopreventive drug discovery and development. This review gives an overview from one of this herbs and spices that is saffron. The chemical composition of saffron has attracted the interest of several research groups during the last decades, and among the estimated more than 150 volatile and several nonvolatile compounds of saffron, approximately 40 – 50 constituents have already been identified. Oral administration of saffron extract inhibited the growth of mouse tumors that were derived from three different kinds of cancer cells and significantly increased the life spans of treated tumor-bearing mice.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Chemoprevention, volatile, tumor-bearing.

Int. J. Pharm. & Pharmacol. 2015, 6(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Anticarcinogenic effect of turmeric on processed food products containing acrylamide

Akshaya Pandey, Prateek Garg and R. Balaji Raja*

Abstract: In present scenario Acrylamide concentration in processed food products have become a very serious health issue. The World Health Organization (WHO) and The Scientific Committee for Food (SCF) of the European Union also confirmed this concern. In laboratory scale, it was found that Acrylamide causes tumors in animals. It is even present in processed food free of microbes indicating the absence of microbial role in Acrylamide formation. This study was aimed to demonstrate the anti-carcinogenic effect of Acrylamide in the processed food products available in open market. In order to determine the acrylamide concentration in three processed food brands GC-MS technique was employed. Turmeric was found to bring about the anti-carcinogenic effect and lower down the acrylamide concentration in Aloo Paratha. No profound concentration of acrylamide was found in other two processed food products taken in for study. The processed food is found to be a Health hazard to the consumer and discretion of usage could minimize its impact.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Processed food, GC-MS, acrylamide, anti-carcinogen, turmeric.

Int. J. Pharm. & Pharmacol. 2015, 6(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Activity induced by dihydrotestosterone-dihydropyrimidine derivative on perfusion pressure and coronary resistance in isolated rat heart

Figueroa-Valverde Lauro*, Díaz-Cedillo Francisco, Lopez-Ramos Ma, Garcia-Cervera Elodia and Quijano A. Karen

Abstract: Experimental and clinical studies suggest that dihydrotestosterone can be associated with changes in blood pressure. In this work, the effects induced by dihydrotestosterone and dihydrotestosterone-dihydropyrimidine on perfusion pressure and coronary resistance were evaluated, in isolated rat heart using the Langendorff flow model. Additionally, the molecular mechanism involved in the activity exerted by dihydrotestosterone-derivative was characterized. The results showed that dihydrotestosterone- dihydropyrimidine [10-9 mM] significantly increase the perfusion pressure (p = 0.005) and coronary resistance (p = 0.006) in isolated rat heart. Additionally, the activity exerted by dihydrotestosterone-dihydropyrimidine on perfusion pressure [109 to 10-4 mM] was blocked in the presence of nefidepine [10-6 mM].These data suggest that activity induced by dihydrotestosterone-derivative on perfusion pressure and coronary resistance is dependent upon its chemical structure. This phenomenon possibly involves the L-type calcium channel activation through a non-genomic molecular mechanism.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Dihydrotestosterone, perfusion pressure, vascular resistance.

Int. J. Pharm. & Pharmacol. 2015, 6(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Screening for anti-typhoid activity of some medicinal plants used in traditional medicine in Ebonyi state, Nigeria

Iroha I. R.*, ILang D. C., Ayogu T. E., Oji A. E. and Ugbo E. C.

Abstract: Ethanol, hot and cold crude water extracts of five medicinal plants namely Vitex doniana (root) , Cassia tora (Leaf), Alstonia boonei (bark), Stachytarpheta jamaicensis (leaf), and Carica papaya (leaf) used as traditionally medicine for anti Salmonella typhi activity in Ebonyi state were evaluated. These plants were screened in-vitro for anti-typhoid activity against 10 clinically selected isolates of S. typhi using the hole-plate diffusion method. The Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of Ethanol, hot and cold water extract of each herbal plant was determined by broth dilution method. Ethanol extracts of Vitex doniana exhibited anti-typhoid activity against 9(90%) of the test organisms, A. boonei exhibited activity against 8(80%) of the test organisms, C. papaya against 2(20%), C. tora against 6(60%), and S. jamaicensis against 6(60%). Hot water extract of Vitex doniana showed anti-typhoid activity against 7(70%) of the test organisms, A. boonei against 9(90%), C. papaya against 1(10%), C. tora against 8(80%) and S. jamaicensis against 7(70%). Cold water extract of V. doniana, had anti-typhoid activity against 6(60%) of the test organisms, A. boonei, against 6(60%), C. papaya against 0(0%), C. tora against 6(60%) and S. jamaicensis against 4(40%). MIC of ethanol, hot and cold water extracts of V. doniana, A. boonei, C. papaya, C. tora and S. jamaicensis, fall within 0.4 -128, 0.8 -128, 64 -128, 32 – 128 and 32 – 128. MIC of hot water extracts were within 16 -128, 0.8 – 128, 128 -512, 0.8 – 512 and 0.8 – 128 while MIC of cold water extract are within 64 – 128, 64 – 512, 64 – 512, 64 – 512 and 128-512 respectively. Our findings showed that ethanol and hot water extracts of V. doniana and A. boonei had the best anti-typhoid activity followed by C. tora and S. jamaicensis while C. papaya showed no activity.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Salmonella typhi, medicinal plants extracts, anti-typhoid activity, minimum inhibitory concentration.

Int. J. Pharm. & Pharmacol. 2015, 6(1), 1-6;

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Case Report

Avoidable childhood death: A case of mismanagement and inappropriate medication use

Taha Nazir*, Syed Muzzamil Masood Zaidi, Ashfaq Ahmad and Tahir Aqeel

Abstract: Rational drug usage, clinical regulations and pharmaceutical care are important features of health practice. Thus; we have aimed case report to elaborate the clinical pharmaceutical services. A 3 year old girl, was presented in a hospital with minor burn that happened by spilt hot water on her wrist. She was in severe pain. The emergency ward staff applied an ointment. The doctor instructed injection Dormicum two times with short gape and then 3rd injection of Pavulon (Pancuronium). Patient went silent and started losing consciousness and eventually passed away. In view of the above facts and circumstances the inquiry board and judiciary took action against the negligence, mishandling. While; going through the investigation the inquiry board did not bothered the channel through which this injection came without proper check that is therapeutical drug monitoring, prescription reviewing, bio-safety and pharmaceutical evaluation. Furthermore, it is not a single death but representation of so many casualties because of the wrong medications. The medial practice needs some more legal, professional and principled restrictions to make sure the safe and correct therapy plans. The clinical legislation, drug rules and medical practice seriously need the attention of judiciary, society and leadership to assure the safety of precious live.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Wrong medication, medical malpractice, professional negligence, pharmaceutical services, Suo-moto notice of chief justice of high court.

Int. J. Pharm. & Pharmacol. 2015, 6(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Stability- indicating (liquid chromatographic) LC method for the determination of rifabutin in bulk drug and in pharmaceutical dosage form

Full Length Research Paper

Abstract: A novel stability-indicating LC assay method was developed and validated for quantitative determination of Rifabutin in bulk drugs and in pharmaceutical dosage form in the presence of degradation products generated from forced degradation studies. An isocratic, reversed phase LC method was developed to separate the drug from the degradation products, using an Ace5-C18 (250 x 4.6 mm, 5 µm) column, and 50 mM ammonium acetate (pH- 4 by acetic acid) and acetonitrile (50:50v/v) as a mobile phase. The detection was carried out at the wavelength of 275 nm. The Rifabutin was subjected to stress conditions of hydrolysis (acid, base), oxidation, photolysis and thermal degradation. Degradation was observed for Rifabutin hydrolysis (acid, base), oxidation and photolysis conditions attempted. There is no degradation in thermal condition. The degradation products were well resolved from the main peak. The percentage recovery of Rifabutin ranged from (99.42 to 100.27%) in pharmaceutical dosage form. The developed method was validated with respect to linearity, accuracy (recovery), precision, specificity and robustness. The forced degradation studies prove the stability-indicating power of the method.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Rifabutin, column liquid chromatography, stability indicating method, validation.

Int. J. Pharm. & Pharmacol. 2015, 6(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Element content analysis of plants of genus Ficus using atomic absorption spectrometer

Kiran Yasmin Khan*, Mir Ajab Khan, Rabia Niamat, Mamoona Munir, Hina Fazal, Paras Mazari, Nighat Seema, Tasmia Bashir, Ammarah Kanwal and Sidra Nisar Ahmed

Abstract: Ficus species have wide distribution and uses worldwide traditionally as medicine, vegetable, food, fodder and fuel wood etc. The flame atomic absorption spectrophotometer was employed for the estimation, conducted on four plant parts (leaves, bark, aerial roots and fruits) of 12 samples of eight medicinally important species of Ficus and nine samples of wild edible fruits of genus Ficus, collected from different locations within Pakistan. The results of the present study provide justification for the usage of these fruits in daily diet for nutrition as well as for medicinal usage and medicinal plants in the treatment of different diseases. The metal contents in the samples were found at different levels which play a vital role in cure of diseases. Toxic elements Cd and Pb were also found but at very low concentration. These results can give the importance about the wild edible fruits and used to set new standards for prescribing the dosage of the herbal drugs prepared from these plant materials in herbal remedies and in pharmaceutical companies.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Atomic absorption spectrometer (AAS), drugs, elements, Ficus, fruits, medicinal.

Int. J. Pharm. & Pharmacol. 2015, 6(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Sex based pharmacological treatment in patients with metabolic syndrome: Findings from the Isfahan healthy heart program

Mojgan Gharipour*, Roya Kelishadi, Nafiseh Toghianifar, Mahsa Mackie, Mehrdad Yazdani, Fatemeh Noori and Nizal Sarrafzadegan

Abstract: Pharmacological therapy is a critical step in the management of individuals with the metabolic syndrome (MetS) when lifestyle modifications cannot achieve the therapeutic goals. However, it has been well- documented that there is no single best therapy other than weight loss, and that treatment should be targeted at individual components of the MetS. The objective of this study was to investigate the treatment of individual components of the MetS in a population-based sample of individuals with clustering MetS components. In a cross-sectional population-based survey, we studied a randomly collected sample of men and women who had participated in the baseline survey of a community-based program in three Central Iranian counties in 2000 to 2001. Demographic data, medical status, and drug history were obtained by questionnaire. We evaluated the association between clustering of the MetS components and pharmacological treatment of cardiovascular risk factors. The most common pharmacologic agents prescribed for individuals with the MetS were beta-blockers (72.8%), followed by lipid-lowering agents (36%) with no significant gender difference. A high level of compliance with drug treatment was noted. Further research is warranted to understand the compliance behavior of patients with the MetS.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Iran, metabolic syndrome, pharmacological treatment, compliance.

Int. J. Pharm. & Pharmacol. 2015, 6(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Immunomodulatory activity of various extracts of Adhatoda vasica Linn. in experimental rats

G. Vinothapooshan* and K. Sundar

Abstract: Methanolic, chloroform and diethyl ether extracts of leaves of Indian medicinal plant Adhatoda vasica Linn . were pharmacologically validated for its immunomodulatory properties in experimental animals. Oral administration of extracts at a dose of 400 mg/kg in adult male Wister rats significantly increased the percentage neutrophil adhesion to nylon fibers (P[...] Read More.

Keywords: Adhatoda vasica Linn., immunomodulatory, neutrophil.

Int. J. Pharm. & Pharmacol. 2015, 6(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Cytotoxic evaluation of fluvastatin and rosuvastatin and effect of fluvastatin in the hela cell cycle

María Campos-Lara and José Alberto Mendoza-Espinoza*

Abstract: 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A (HMG-CoA) reductase inhibitors, were originally designed to reduce cholesterol biosynthesis and have been extensively used as prevention drugs against hyperlipidemia and cardiovascular conditions. Recently, these compounds have been shown to display chemopreventive activity against cancer. However, the effects of statins on cancer are not completely understood. For this reason, we have studied the cytotoxic effect of rosuvastatin and fluvastatin on three cell tumoral lines: human larynx carcinoma (HEp- 2), human nasopharyngeal carcinoma (KB), and human epithelial carcinoma (HeLa). We have found that only fluvastatin has relevant activity against the tumoral cell lines assayed and the capacity to arrest G1- phase, whereas a significant decline was observed in the S-phase percentage. Fluvastatin IC50 were 2.43±0.56 mg/mL (HEp-2), 2.29±0.19 mg/mL (KB), and 5.02±1.52 mg/mL (HeLa), whereas rosuvastatin showed poor activity. These results indicate that the cytotoxic effect of fluvastatin may not depend directly on HMG-CoA reductase inhibition. The antitumor statins effect needs further investigation.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Cell cycle, cytotoxicity, statins.

Int. J. Pharm. & Pharmacol. 2015, 6(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Spica Prunellae extract promotes mitochondrion-dependent apoptosis in human colon carcinoma cell line

Liangpu Zheng, Youqin Chen, Wei Lin, Qunchuan Zhuang, Xuzheng Chen, Wei Xu, Xianxiang Liu, Jun Peng* and Thomas J. Sferra,

Abstract: Spica Prunellae (Prunella vulgaris fruiting spikes) has long been used as an important component in formulated prescriptions of Chinese traditional medicine to treat various kinds of cancer. However, the precise mechanism of the anti-cancer activity of Spica Prunellae remains to be elucidated. In this report, we investigated the cellular effects of the ethanol extract of Spica Prunellae (EESP) in the HT-29 human colon carcinoma cell line. We found that EESP inhibited the growth of HT-29 cells as evidenced by EESP-induced cell morphological changes and reduced cell viability in dose- and time-dependent manners. Furthermore, we demonstrated that the HT-29 cell growth inhibitory activity of EESP was due to apoptosis, as EESP treatment resulted in the loss of plasma membrane asymmetry (externalization of phosphatidylserine), collapse of mitochondrial membrane potential, activation of caspase-9 and caspase-3, and increase in the ratio of pro-apoptotic Bax to anti-apoptotic Bcl-2. Taken together, these results suggest that Spica Prunellae inhibits the growth of HT-29 colon cancer cells through mitochondrion-mediated apoptosis, which may, in part, explain its anti-cancer activity.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Apoptosis, anti-tumor, HT-29 cells, phytotherapy, mitochondria, Spica Prunellae.

Int. J. Pharm. & Pharmacol. 2015, 6(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Clinical evaluation of green tea polyphenols in treatment of pharyngitis in human subjects

Y. F. Wang, L. Ying, P. Xu, B. Y. Zhang, X. Q. Yang and L. S. Qian*

Abstract: Tea from Camellia sinensis (L.) Kuntze has long been used in herb medicine and recognized to possess anti-inflammative effects. The aim of the current study was to evaluate the therapeutic effects of green tea polyphenols in treatment of pharyngitis in human subjects. The clinical study was carried out as a randomized, double- blind, parallel- group comparative trial. It was found that the integral scores of all the observed individual clinical signs and symptoms were decreased significantly from pre-treatment to post-treatment (P[...] Read More.

Keywords: Green tea polyphenols, clinical evaluation, pharyngitis, human subjects.

Int. J. Pharm. & Pharmacol. 2015, 6(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Resistance to erythromycin of Campylobacter jejuni and Campylobacter coli isolated from animals and humans

Z. Tambur*, B. Miljkovic-Selimovic, Z. Kulisic , D. Mirkovic, R. Doder and Z. Stanimirovic

Abstract: The sensititivity of thermophilic Campylobacter strains isolated from caecum of broiler chickens as well as caecum and colon of pigs and human stools, were tested against erythromycin. In 16 strains isolated in broiler chickens, resistance rate was found to be 12.50%. Three of 10 strains of Campylobacter jejuni and one of 6 strains of Campylobacter coli isolated from broiler chickens were resistant to erythromycin. In 15 strains of thermophilic Campylobacters isolated from pigs, resistance rate to erythromycin was 40.00%. Resistance was exhibited more often in C. coli (50.00%) as compared to C. jejuni (20.00%). In 24 strains isolated from humans, resistance was demonstrated at the rate of 12.50%. Out of 17 strains of C. jejuni isolated from humans, resistance was exhibited in 17.65% strains. None of 7 strains of C. coli isolated from humans exhibited resistance to erythromycin. Thermophilic campylobacters, especially C. coli isolated from pigs were more resistant to erythromycin than strains isolated from humans and broiler chickens. Therefore, a great attention should be directed to the macrolides monitoring in swine farming in order to prevent resistance in animals and its subsequent spread to human.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Campylobacter spp., resistance, erythromycin.

Int. J. Pharm. & Pharmacol. 2015, 6(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

A comparison study of Morven gold and Tander virginia cigarettes with respect to its spasmogenic, spasmolytic and chemical screening

Naveed Ullah*, Mir Azam Khan, Afzal Haq Asif, Habib Ahmad, Taimur Khan, Taous Khan and Waqar Ahmad

Abstract: The ethanolic extracts derived from cigarettes (Morven gold and Tander virginia) were screened for chemicals, spasmogenic and spasmolytic activities. M. gold extract showed a strong relaxant activity that is 70% against KCl induced contractions while T. virginia was found to have a mild spasmolytic activity of (06%). Furthermore, a moderate spasmogenic effect of M. gold had being measured, while no measurable spasmogenic activity has been shown by the T. virginia. It can be concluded from the current study that Morven gold has a strong spamsmogenic and spasmolytic activity, while the Tander is not found to be so efficient in either case. The chemicals found in sufficient quantity in both the extracts were tannins, saponin and glycosides. Minute quantity of carbohydrates were also been noted in M. gold . The presence of alkaloids were also been noted in excess quantity in T. virginia and less amount in M. gold. Further studies are necessary to elucidate its exact mechanism of action.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Spasmogenic, spasmolytic, chemical screening, Morven gold, Tander virginia.

Int. J. Pharm. & Pharmacol. 2015, 6(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Antinociceptive activity of some 1,4-substituted piperidine derivatives using tail flick method in mice

Amirhossein Sakhteman, Mohammad Sharifzadeh, Alireza Moradi, Hamid Nadri, Kaveh Tabrizian, Massoud Amanlou, Ali Asadipour, Kouros Divsalar, Abbas Shafiee and Alireza Foroumadi,*

Abstract: We have examined the potential antinociceptive effects of some piperidine derivatives (6a-f), using tail flick method in mice. Morphine was used as positive control drug. The results showed that compound 6b, having a bromine atom at 4 position, was the most active agent tested. The activity of this compound at 50 mg/kg was comparable to morphine (3 mg/kg). Based on the similarities between our compounds and meperidine like structures such as fentanyl, a group of mice was treated with naloxone before administration of 6f. It was concluded that opioid receptors could be the dominant mechanism for the antinociceptive activity of these types of structures. Electrostatic map, distance analysis and superimposition between fentanyl and compound 6b were also studied.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Piperidine derivatives, antinociceptive activity, tail flick.

Int. J. Pharm. & Pharmacol. 2015, 6(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Aconitine mediates connexin43 and PKC phosphorylation status in cultured ventricular myocytes of neonatal rats

Yan Liu, Man Liang, Shi-wei Zhang, Lan Zhou, Chuan-hong Zhu and Liang Liu*

Abstract: Aconitine, a strong poisonous type of alkaloid, has a pharmaceutical effect in stimulating the membranes of cardiomyocyte. However, other effects of aconitine on the Connexin43 (Cx43) and PKC expression on cardiomyocyte are unknown. In this study, we investigated whether aconitine also mediates the phosphorylation status of Cx43 and PKC in cultured ventricular myocytes of neonatal rats. The band intensity of phosphorylated Cx43 and nonphosphorylated Cx43 in cultured and aconitine-treated cardiomyocytes were determined by Western blot analysis. The changes in phosphorylation status occurring in PKC in cultures were revealed by quantitative immunofluorescent microscopy. A decreased band intensity (0.37±0.04) of phosphorylated Cx43 (P-Cx43) and a concomitant increased band intensity (3.56 ± 0.65) of nonphosphorylated Cx43 (NP-Cx43) were found, compared to the controls (1.00 for P-Cx43 and NP-Cx43). It also revealed that, after aconitine treatment, the amount of phosphorylated PKC (P-PKC ) decreased significantly. Similar changes were revealed in phosphorylation status occurring in PKC in the cultures under the same treatment conditions. These observations suggest that aconitine not only induces dephosphorylation of Cx43, but also alters expression of P-PKC in cultured cardiomyocytes.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Aconitine, cardiomyocyte, connexin 43 (Cx43), protein kinase C- (PKC ), protein phosphorylation.

Int. J. Pharm. & Pharmacol. 2015, 6(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Influence of the aryl substituent identity in 4-arylamino-3-nitrocoumarins on their antimicrobial activity

Vidoslav Dekić, Niko Radulović*, Rastko Vukićević, Biljana Dekić, Zorica Stojanović-Radić and Radosav Palić

Abstract: Two new and six previously known coumarin derivatives with promising biological properties were synthesized in moderate to good yields by reaction of 4-chloro-3-nitro-coumarin and the appropriate arylamine in ethyl acetate in the presence of triethylamine. The synthesized compounds were evaluated for their in vitro antibacterial and antifungal activities against pathogenic strains. A correlation between the aryl substituent identity and antimicrobial activity was discussed.[...] Read More.

Keywords: 4-Arylamino-3-nitro-coumarins, synthesis, NMR spectroscopy, 4-chloro-3-nitro-coumarin, arylamines, antimicrobial activity.

Int. J. Pharm. & Pharmacol. 2015, 6(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Analgesic activities of ethanolic extract of the root of Carpolobia lutea

Clement Jackson*, Herbert Mbagwu, Idongesit Jackson, Godwin Ekpe and Florence Etienam

Abstract: The analgesic activities of the aqueous extract of Carpolobia lutea was evaluated in mice and rats using the mouse writhing, tail flick and formalin induced pain tests. Analgesic studies were performed using three models; mouse writhing assay, formalin test and tail flick assay. The extract (1500 to 2500 mg/kg) and acetylsalicylic acid (100 mg/kg) produced a significant (P[...] Read More.

Keywords: Antinoceptive, Carpolobia lutea, LD50, pain model.

Int. J. Pharm. & Pharmacol. 2015, 6(1), 1-6;

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