Attenuation of CFA-induced arthritis through regulation of inflammatory cytokines and antioxidant mechanisms by Solanum nigrum L. leaves extracts

Solanum nigrum L. is a popular traditional medicine for various inflammatory conditions including rheumatism and joint pain. The current study aimed to evaluate the anti-arthritic mechanism of Solanum nigrum L. Four extracts were prepared using n-hexane, methanol, chloroform, and water. The anti-nociceptive and anti-inflammatory activity was carried out with 100, 200, and 300 mg/kg body wt. PO of each extract by the hot plate and carrageenan-induced paw oedema methods, respectively. The anti-arthritic study was performed with chloroform and aqueous extracts (300 mg/kg) in complete Freund's adjuvant (CFA)-induced arthritis. Paw size (mm), ankle joint diameter (mm), and latency time (sec) were recorded on day 0 and every 4th day till 28 days. The hematological, inflammatory, and oxidative biomarkers were estimated. Results showed that significant analgesia (p < 0.05) and reduction in paw inflammation were achieved with all extracts. The highest percent inhibition in Carrageenan-induced inflammation was achieved with 300 mg/kg of chloroform (72.19%) and aqueous (71.30%) extracts, respectively. In the CFA model, both extracts showed a significant reduction in paw size and ankle joint diameter (p < 0.05). The RT-qPCR analysis revealed the upregulation of interleukin-4 and interleukin-10, and down-expression of interleukin-1β, interleukin-6, tumor necrosis factor-α, cycloxygenase-2, nuclear factor-κB, prostaglandin E synthase 2, and interferon-γ. A significant increase in superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione levels was observed. Hence, it is concluded that Solanum nigrum L. leaf extracts regulate the expression of inflammatory markers and improve oxidative stress resulting in the attenuation of CFA-induced arthritis.

Cassia absus-mediated upregulation of IL-4, IL-10 and downregulation of IL-1β, IL-6, TNF- α, NF-κB, IFN-γ in CFA-induced arthritis model

Traditional use of Cassia absus as an anti-inflammatory in conjunctivitis and bronchitis is well reported. Owing to its anti-inflammatory potential, the current study appraised in vivo anti-arthritic activity of n-hexane and aqueous extracts of Cassia absus seeds (200 mg/kg) using Complete Freund's Adjuvant (CFA) rat model of arthritis. Changes in paw size (mm), joint diameter (mm), and pain response (sec) were recorded at the baseline and then after CFA induction at the interval of 4 days till the 28th day. Blood samples of anesthetized rats were collected for the estimation of hematological, oxidative, and inflammatory biomarkers. Results showed percent inhibition in paw edema (45.09% and 60.79%) with both n-hexane and aqueous extracts, respectively. Significant reduction in paw size and ankle joint diameter (P < 0.01) was seen in extracts treated rats. Erythrocyte Sedimentation rate, C-Reactive Protein, White Blood Cell levels significantly lowered, and Hemoglobin, Platelets and Red Blood Cell count significantly increased post-treatments. Superoxide Dismutase, Catalase, and Glutathione were significantly improved (P < 0.0001) in treated groups as compared to CFA induced arthritic control. Real-time polymerase chain reaction investigation showed significant downregulation (P < 0.05) of Interleukin-1β, Tumor Necrosis Factor-α, Interleukin-6, Cycloxygenase-2, Nuclear Factor-κB, Prostaglandin E Synthase 2, Interferon Gamma and upregulation of Interleukin-4, Interleukin-10 in both n-hexane and aqueous extract-treated groups. It is thereby concluded that Cassia absus can significantly attenuate CFA-induced arthritis by modulation of oxidative and inflammatory biomarkers.

Assessment of in vivo antiepileptic potential and phytochemical analysis of Cassia absus seed extracts

Cassia absus, a member of Fabaceae family, has been a part of traditional medicine for various ailments such as Hypertension, Diabetes, and Cancer. This family of plants has been utilized for Anticonvulsant and Anxiolytic effects. The ongoing investigation is aimed to seek the antiepileptic potential of C. absus seed extracts in pentylenetetrazole-induced kindling mice. The seeds of C. absus were subjected to a sequential extraction process for the preparation of n-hexane, chloroform, methanol, and aqueous extracts. The PTZ-induced kindling model was employed to assess the antiepileptic activity of each extract. Seizure activity and antioxidant biomarkers in the brain tissue such as levels of CAT, SOD, tGSH, and MDA were assessed. Mechanism of action was elucidated by Flumazenil. Through GC-MS analysis, the phytochemical components in the chloroform extract of C. absus were evaluated. The outcomes showed that C. absus extracts markedly reduced the seizure activity in kindling mice. The extracts exhibited significant Antioxidant properties by enhancing the levels of antioxidant biomarkers in the brain tissue such as CAT, SOD, and tGSH, and decreasing the MDA level. The results demonstrated that C. absus extracts showed antiepileptic effects may be via GABA pathway. According to the results of this investigation, C. absus has significant antiepileptic potential in PTZ-induced kindling mice via GABA pathway modulation and combating reactive oxygen species.

Biomolecular Screening of Pimpinella anisum L. for Antioxidant and Anticholinesterase Activity in Mice Brain

Hundreds of the plants have been explored and evaluated for antioxidant and anti-amnesic activities, so far. This study was designed to report the biomolecules of Pimpinella anisum L. for the said activities. The aqueous extract of dried P. anisum seeds was fractionated via column chromatography and the fractions so obtained were assessed for the inhibition of acetylcholinesterase (AChE) via in vitro analysis. The fraction which best inhibited AChE was so named as the P. anisum active fraction (P.aAF). The P.aAF was then chemically analyzed via GCMS, which indicated that oxadiazole compounds were present in it. The P.aAF was then administered to albino mice to conduct the in vivo (behavioral and biochemical) studies. The results of the behavioral studies indicated the significant (p < 0.001) increase in inflexion ratio, by the number of hole-pokings through holes and time spent in a dark area by P.aAF treated mice. Biochemical studies demonstrated that the oxadiazole present in P.aAF on one hand presented a noteworthy reduction in MDA and the AChE level and on the other hand promoted the levels of CAT, SOD and GSH in mice brain. The LD₅₀ for P.aAF was calculated as 95 mg/Kg/p.o. The findings thus supported that the antioxidant and anticholinesterase activities of P. anisum are due to its oxadiazole compounds.

Evaluation of the Anxiolytic and Anti-Epileptogenic Potential of Lactuca Serriola Seed Using Pentylenetetrazol-Induced Kindling in Mice and Metabolic Profiling of Its Bioactive Extract

This study aimed to assess the potential of Lactuca serriola (Asteraceae) seed n-hexane, chloroform, methanol, and aqueous extracts as anticonvulsant, sedative, anticonvulsant and antiepileptic agents in Swiss albino mice. Different doses of each extract were evaluated for the anxiolytic potential using the hole-board, the elevated plus maze and the light/dark test. A phenobarbitone-induced sleep test was employed for the evaluation of sedative potential. Acute anticonvulsant activity was evaluated by picrotoxin and strychnine-induced convulsion models. All extracts significantly reduced the number of head dips where n-hexane extract (400 mg/kg) showed 96.34% reduction in the tendency of head dipping when compared with the control. Mice treated with extracts preferred elevated plus maze open arms and were shown to lack open arms evasion, especially n-hexane extract (400 mg/kg)-which showed 456.14%-increased the duration of open arm stay with the respective control group. By reducing sleep latency and greatly lengthening sleep duration, L. serriola enhanced the effects of barbiturate-induced sleep. A significant increase in convulsion latency and decrease in convulsions induced by picrotoxin and strychnine duration was observed in all extract-treated groups. All the extracts exhibited anti-epileptogenic potential as the seizure score in pentylenetetrazol (PTZ)-induced kindling in mice was reduced significantly. Maximum protection was afforded by chloroform extract that reduced the seizure score by 79.93% compared with the PTZ group. Chloroform executed antioxidant effect by elevating super oxide dismutase (SOD) by 126%, catalase (CAT) by 83.53%, total glutathione (tGSH) by 149%, and reducing malondialdhyde (MDA) levels by 36.49% in the brain tissues that is further consolidated by histopathological examination. Metabolic profiling of the most active chloroform extract using Gas chromatography coupled with mass showed the presence of 16 compounds. This anti-epileptic activity was further confirmed via in silico molecular modelling studies in the active site Gamma-aminobutyric acid aminotransferase (GABA-AT) where all of the tested metabolites illustrated a potent inhibitory potential towards GABA-AT with hexadecanoic acid, 15-methyl-, methyl ester followed by octadecanoic acid, methyl ester showed the best fitting. The results indicated the possible anxiolytic and anti-epileptogenic potential of the plant and further consolidated the ethnopharmacological use of L. serriola seeds.

Anti-arthritic, anti-nociceptive and anti-inflammatory potential of Cassia absus: An ethanomedicinal plant of Febaceae family

Medicinal plants are becoming popular choice for treatment of chronic disease conditions. Cassia absus plant parts have been traditionally used to treat inflammatory conditions. This study was designed for evaluating anti-arthritic, anti-nociceptive and anti-inflammatory potential of Cassia absus seeds. n- hexane, methanol, chloroform and aqueous extracts were prepared to be appraised for identification and quantitative determination of various phytochemicals. All the extracts were evaluated for anti-arthritic activity via protein denaturation, anti-nociceptive activity by hot plate method and anti-inflammatory potential through Carrageenan induced paw edema. Three doses; 100, 200 and 300mg/kg of each extract were given to Wistar rats. The results of the quantitative analysis revealed that Aqueous and n-hexane extracts contained the highest total flavonoid (104.2±0.24mg QE/g) and phenolic contents (187.4±0.65mg GA/g) respectively. All the extracts exhibited decrease in protein denaturation (n-hexane 66.66%, methanol 59.42%, chloroform 65.21% and aqueous extract 89.85%). Significant increase in mean latency time (secs) was observed in n-hexane, methanol and aqueous extract treated rats as compared to normal rats. All four extracts caused significant reduction in paw inflammation as compared to carrageenan control. It is therefore concluded that all the extracts of Cassia absus possessed significant anti-arthritic, anti-nociceptive and anti-inflammatory potential.

Amelioration of streptozotocin-induced neurotoxicity in rats by a standardized extract of Cydonia oblonga seeds

Background: Globally, medicinal plants are widely used to treat ailments due to their safety, accessibility and efficacy. Objectives: The objective of this study was to determine in vivo neuroprotective effect of methanolic extract of seeds of Cydonia oblongaagainst streptozotocininduced diabetes in rats, as this research has not been reported previously. Methods: Methanolic extract (100, 150 and 200 mg/kg b.w) was administered for 21 days to diabetic rats. Total protein content, glutathione-S-transferase (GST) specific activity, total glutathione level (tGSH), catalase activity (CAT), malondialdehyde (MDA) level, superoxide dismutase (SOD) level and acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity were determined in the brain homogenate. Results: C. oblonga seeds extract showed a significantly (*p < 0.05) increased in GST activity, tGSH level, CAT activity and level of SOD. While MDA levels and AChE activity were decreased in comparison with streptozotocin-treated group. Histopathological examination also showed a marked improvement in the morphology of brain tissues. Conclusion: It is concluded that the methanolic extract of C. oblonga seeds has the potential to protect the brain against streptozotocin-induced neurotoxicity by reducing oxidative stress and is beneficial for cognitive improvement in diabetic patients. Bangladesh Journal of Medical Science Vol. 21 No. 04 October’22 Page : 848-857

Effects of different combinations of N, P and K at different time interval on vegetative, reproductive, yield and quality traits of mango (Mangifera Indica. L) cv. Dusehri

The experiment was carried out on mango cv. Dusehri to investigate the effect of N, P and K fertilizers on vegetative, reproductive growth, yield and fruit quality. Eight different fertilizer combinations such as T1 (control), T2 (N), T3 (P), T4 (K), T5 (NP), T6 (NK), T7 (PK) and T8 (NPK) were used. Individual or combine fertilizer application of N (1000 g), P (750 g) and K (750 g) were applied during growing season in February and August. All the treatments significantly influenced on vegetative growth, flowering, fruiting, yield and other physiochemical attributes of mango as compared to control. Least effect was observed with individual fertilizer application while combine fertilizer treatments enhanced most of the investigated parameters. Especially, qualitative traits showed non-significant differences between treated and untreated mango trees. However, among the different treatments T8 (NPK) showed significance for fruiting aspects such as maximum size of growth flushes (177.51 mm), total number of panicles/tree (845), total number of flowers/panicle (974), sex ratio (69.18%), fruit retention (13.85%), total number of fruits/tree (379), yield (82 kg/tree), fruit weight (197.5 g), pulp weight (135.5 g) and physiochemical parameters namely TSS (24.53), Vit. C (57.63 mg/100 mL) and total sugar (20.84%). In general, combine application of NPK (T8) were the most effective in enhancing fruiting aspects, yield, physiochemical characteristics as well as improved fruit quality of mango trees.

Evaluation of phytochemical, anti-oxidant and cardiac depressant effect of Rumex dentatus by using Langendorff's isolated heart apparatus

Rumex dentatus has been used traditionally for ailment of cardiovascular diseases. The aim of the present study was to assess cardiovascular effects in isolated perfused rabbit heart. Aqueous and n-butanolic fractions were assessed for their effect on perfusion pressure (PP), force of contraction (FC) and heart rate (HR) of rabbit heart using Langendorff's method. The possible mechanisms of action of extracts/fraction were assessed with and without application of different agonist/antagonist. Phytochemical, toxicity and anti-oxidant activities were also determined. Both extracts at 1mg/mL dose produced a highly significant decrease in FC and HR but PP remained unchanged. Moreover, aqueous fraction of Rumex dentatus at 0.001mg/mL dose produced a highly significant decrease in FC and HR but no significant change in PP was observed. Atropine 10^-5 M did not inhibit the cardiac depressant response of both fractions. Furthermore, both fractions blocked the positive ionotropic and chronotropic effects of adrenaline and calcium chloride. Phytochemical studies have shown the presence of some phytochemicals. Acute and sub-chronic toxicity studies demonstrated that test extracts are safe and produced no significant changes in haematological and biochemical parameters. Crude extract showed significant antioxidant activity like ascorbic acid. This study revealed that this plant have good cardiac depressant effect.

Appraisal of the Antiarthritic Potential of Prazosin via Inhibition of Proinflammatory Cytokine TNF-α: A Key Player in Rheumatoid Arthritis

Prazosin, a selective α₁ adrenergic receptor antagonist, with documented anti-inflammatory potential, was evaluated for its antiarthritic efficacy by targeting specifically TNF-α. The antiarthritic attribute of prazosin validated through in vitro screening comprised thermally provoked denaturation of bovine serum albumin (BSA) and egg albumin along with membrane stabilization evaluation at a concentration of 100-6400 μg/mL, while in vivo screening comprised formaldehyde-instigated arthritis at the doses of 5, 10, and 20 mg/kg and complete Freund's adjuvant (CFA)-induced arthritis at 20 mg/kg dose. Paw swelling, body weight, arthritic score, hematological parameters, and histological and radiographic examination of ankle joints were assessed for a period of 28 days after CFA immunization. Moreover, the proinflammatory cytokine TNF-α level was also assessed through quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Prazosin revealed significant antiarthritic effect evident through protein denaturation inhibition in the egg albumin and the BSA model, stabilization of red blood cell membrane in the membrane stabilizing assay, and reduction in paw volume in formaldehyde-induced arthritis. Likewise, prazosin exhibited propitious antiarthritic effects in the CFA-provoked arthritis model manifested by paw volume and arthritic score alleviation, substantial weight loss prevention, and preservation of the normal hematological and biochemical profile. Histological and X-ray investigation unveiled no substantive structural alterations in treated rat's ankle joints. The TNF-α expression level was also reduced. Thus, the current study is suggestive that prazosin exhibits a strong antiarthritic potential possibly through inhibition of TNF-α.

Green synthesis of gold nanoparticles from Manilkara zapota L. extract and the evaluation of its intrinsic in vivo antiarthritic potential

The aim of this study is to evaluate the in vivo acute and sub-acute antiarthritic activity of aqueous extract of M. zapota and its biosynthesized gold nanoparticles (AuNPs).

Amelioration of Bleomycin and Methotrexate-Induced Pulmonary Toxicity by Serratiopeptidase and Fisetin

Pulmonary toxicity by anticancer drugs often leads to discontinuation of therapy or switching the therapy to alternative drugs. In the present study, serratiopeptidase (SPTD) and fisetin (FST) were evaluated as chemoprotectant to counteract the pulmonary toxicity induced by BLM and MTX. Single dose of MTX (20 mg/kg) by intraperitoneal and BLM (5 mg/kg) by intra-tracheal route was administered on 7^th day of study. SPTD (20 mg/kg), FST (25 mg/kg), and NAC (250 mg/kg) and combinations of SPTD + NAC, SPTD + FST, and FST + NAC were administered through oral gavage for 14 days. SPTD and FST showed significant (p < 0.05) effect in MTX-induced lung toxicity by increasing reduced glutathione (GSH) and decreasing malondialdehyde (MDA), hydroxyproline (HXP), and collagen. SPTD and NAC showed significant (p < 0.05) effect in BLM-induced pulmonary toxicity by increasing GSH and decreasing MDA, HXP, and collagen whereas FST was not much effective. In combination study, SPTD + NAC combination showed significant (p < 0.05) effect in BLM- and MTX- induced lung injury whereas other combinations did not prove to be highly effective. SPTD can be recommended along with BLM and MTX in chemotherapy protocol alone and in combination with NAC.

Probing the Effects of Strong Electromagnetic Fields with Charge-Dependent Directed Flow in Pb-Pb Collisions at the LHC

The first measurement at the LHC of charge-dependent directed flow (v_{1}) relative to the spectator plane is presented for Pb-Pb collisions at sqrt[s_{NN}]=5.02  TeV. Results are reported for charged hadrons and D^{0} mesons for the transverse momentum intervals p_{T}>0.2  GeV/c and 3<p_{T}<6  GeV/c in the 5%-40% and 10%-40% centrality classes, respectively. The difference between the positively and negatively charged hadron v_{1} has a positive slope as a function of pseudorapidity η, dΔv_{1}/dη=[1.68±0.49(stat)±0.41(syst)]×10^{-4}. The same measurement for D^{0} and D[over ¯]^{0} mesons yields a positive value dΔv_{1}/dη=[4.9±1.7(stat)±0.6(syst)]×10^{-1}, which is about 3 orders of magnitude larger than the one of the charged hadrons. These measurements can provide new insights into the effects of the strong electromagnetic field and the initial tilt of matter created in noncentral heavy ion collisions on the dynamics of light (u, d, and s) and heavy (c) quarks. The large difference between the observed Δv_{1} of charged hadrons and D^{0} mesons may reflect different sensitivity of the charm and light quarks to the early time dynamics of a heavy ion collision. These observations challenge some recent theoretical calculations, which predicted a negative and an order of magnitude smaller value of dΔv_{1}/dη for both light flavor and charmed hadrons.

Evidence of Spin-Orbital Angular Momentum Interactions in Relativistic Heavy-Ion Collisions

The first evidence of spin alignment of vector mesons (K^{*0} and ϕ) in heavy-ion collisions at the Large Hadron Collider (LHC) is reported. The spin density matrix element ρ_{00} is measured at midrapidity (|y|<0.5) in Pb-Pb collisions at a center-of-mass energy (sqrt[s_{NN}]) of 2.76 TeV with the ALICE detector. ρ_{00} values are found to be less than 1/3 (1/3 implies no spin alignment) at low transverse momentum (p_{T}<2  GeV/c) for K^{*0} and ϕ at a level of 3σ and 2σ, respectively. No significant spin alignment is observed for the K_{S}^{0} meson (spin=0) in Pb-Pb collisions and for the vector mesons in pp collisions. The measured spin alignment is unexpectedly large but qualitatively consistent with the expectation from models which attribute it to a polarization of quarks in the presence of angular momentum in heavy-ion collisions and a subsequent hadronization by the process of recombination.

Scattering Studies with Low-Energy Kaon-Proton Femtoscopy in Proton-Proton Collisions at the LHC

The study of the strength and behavior of the antikaon-nucleon (K[over ¯]N) interaction constitutes one of the key focuses of the strangeness sector in low-energy quantum chromodynamics (QCD). In this Letter a unique high-precision measurement of the strong interaction between kaons and protons, close and above the kinematic threshold, is presented. The femtoscopic measurements of the correlation function at low pair-frame relative momentum of (K^{+}p⊕K^{-}p[over ¯]) and (K^{-}p⊕K^{+}p[over ¯]) pairs measured in pp collisions at sqrt[s]=5, 7, and 13 TeV are reported. A structure observed around a relative momentum of 58  MeV/c in the measured correlation function of (K^{-}p⊕K^{+}p[over ¯]) with a significance of 4.4σ constitutes the first experimental evidence for the opening of the (K[over ¯]^{0}n⊕K^{0}n[over ¯]) isospin breaking channel due to the mass difference between charged and neutral kaons. The measured correlation functions have been compared to Jülich and Kyoto models in addition to the Coulomb potential. The high-precision data at low relative momenta presented in this work prove femtoscopy to be a powerful complementary tool to scattering experiments and provide new constraints above the K[over ¯]N threshold for low-energy QCD chiral models.

Evaluation of Toxicity in Four Extract Types of Tuba Root against Dengue Vector, Aedes aegypti (Diptera: Culicidae) Larvae

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

Since the Dengue virus spreads rapidly and the vector becomes resistant to insecticides and larvicides, exploration of new compounds that overcome resistance problems, are easily degraded and do not lead to bioaccumulation, is needed. This study evaluated four extract types of Derris elliptica represented the polar, semi-polar and nonpolar extract against the 3rd-instar larvae of Ae. aegypti and determined the effective concentration among the extracts.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The crude extract was obtained from the maceration of root powder of the plant with methanol and subsequently evaporated. The crude extract was diluted in distilled water and partitioned sequentially with ethyl-acetate, n-hexane and water to obtain their fractions. All the fractions were evaporated to obtain their extract types. Initial bioassay test of the extracts with concentration ranges of 50, 100, 500 and 1,000 mg L-1 against Ae. aegypti larvae and resulted in 86-100% larval mortality rates at concentrations of 50 and 100 mg L-1, except for water extract. The lower concentration range of 3, 5, 10, 25, 50 and 100 mg L-1 of three extract types were tested.

RESULTS

Larval mortality rates of 18.4-100, 1.6-99.2 and 0.8-98.4% with LC50 of 4.088, 14.066 and 21.063 mg L-1, respectively for n-hexane, methanol and ethyl-acetate. FTIR analysis indicated nine lead compounds in which rotenone and ceramides were observed in all extract types.

CONCLUSION

The n-hexane extract showed the highest larvicidal toxicity and its specific compounds are necessarily isolated to obtain pure bioactive ingredients.

Measurement of ϒ(1S) Elliptic Flow at Forward Rapidity in Pb-Pb Collisions at sqrt[s_{NN}]=5.02 TeV

The first measurement of the ϒ(1S) elliptic flow coefficient (v_{2}) is performed at forward rapidity (2.5<y<4) in Pb-Pb collisions at sqrt[s_{NN}]=5.02  TeV with the ALICE detector at the LHC. The results are obtained with the scalar product method and are reported as a function of transverse momentum (p_{T}) up to 15  GeV/c in the 5%-60% centrality interval. The measured ϒ(1S)v_{2} is consistent with 0 and with the small positive values predicted by transport models within uncertainties. The v_{2} coefficient in 2<p_{T}<15  GeV/c is lower than that of inclusive J/ψ mesons in the same p_{T} interval by 2.6 standard deviations. These results, combined with earlier suppression measurements, are in agreement with a scenario in which the ϒ(1S) production in Pb-Pb collisions at LHC energies is dominated by dissociation limited to the early stage of the collision, whereas in the J/ψ case there is substantial experimental evidence of an additional regeneration component.

Investigations of Anisotropic Flow Using Multiparticle Azimuthal Correlations in pp, p-Pb, Xe-Xe, and Pb-Pb Collisions at the LHC

Measurements of anisotropic flow coefficients (v_{n}) and their cross-correlations using two- and multiparticle cumulant methods are reported in collisions of pp at sqrt[s]=13  TeV, p-Pb at a center-of-mass energy per nucleon pair sqrt[s_{NN}]=5.02  TeV, Xe-Xe at sqrt[s_{NN}]=5.44  TeV, and Pb-Pb at sqrt[s_{NN}]=5.02  TeV recorded with the ALICE detector. The multiplicity dependence of v_{n} is studied in a very wide range from 20 to 3000 particles produced in the midrapidity region |η|<0.8 for the transverse momentum range 0.2<p_{T}<3.0  GeV/c. An ordering of the coefficients v_{2}>v_{3}>v_{4} is found in pp and p-Pb collisions, similar to that seen in large collision systems, while a weak v_{2} multiplicity dependence is observed relative to nucleus-nucleus collisions in the same multiplicity range. Using a novel subevent method, v_{2} measured with four-particle cumulants is found to be compatible with that from six-particle cumulants in pp and p-Pb collisions. The magnitude of the correlation between v_{n}^{2} and v_{m}^{2}, evaluated with the symmetric cumulants SC(m,n) is observed to be positive at all multiplicities for v_{2} and v_{4}, while for v_{2} and v_{3} it is negative and changes sign for multiplicities below 100, which may indicate a different v_{n} fluctuation pattern in this multiplicity range. The observed long-range multiparticle azimuthal correlations in high multiplicity pp and p-Pb collisions can neither be described by pythia 8 nor by impact-parameter-Glasma, music, and ultrarelativistic quantum molecular dynamics model calculations, and hence, provide new insights into the understanding of collective effects in small collision systems.

First Observation of an Attractive Interaction between a Proton and a Cascade Baryon

This Letter presents the first experimental observation of the attractive strong interaction between a proton and a multistrange baryon (hyperon) Ξ^{-}. The result is extracted from two-particle correlations of combined p-Ξ^{-}⊕p[over ¯]-Ξ[over ¯]^{+} pairs measured in p-Pb collisions at sqrt[s_{NN}]=5.02  TeV at the LHC with ALICE. The measured correlation function is compared with the prediction obtained assuming only an attractive Coulomb interaction and a standard deviation in the range [3.6, 5.3] is found. Since the measured p-Ξ^{-}⊕p[over ¯]-Ξ[over ¯]^{+} correlation is significantly enhanced with respect to the Coulomb prediction, the presence of an additional, strong, attractive interaction is evident. The data are compatible with recent lattice calculations by the HAL-QCD Collaboration, with a standard deviation in the range [1.8, 3.7]. The lattice potential predicts a shallow repulsive Ξ^{-} interaction within pure neutron matter and this implies stiffer equations of state for neutron-rich matter including hyperons. Implications of the strong interaction for the modeling of neutron stars are discussed.

Azimuthal Anisotropy of Heavy-Flavor Decay Electrons in p-Pb Collisions at sqrt[s_{NN}]=5.02 TeV

Angular correlations between heavy-flavor decay electrons and charged particles at midrapidity (|η|<0.8) are measured in p-Pb collisions at sqrt[s_{NN}]=5.02  TeV. The analysis is carried out for the 0%-20% (high) and 60%-100% (low) multiplicity ranges. The jet contribution in the correlation distribution from high-multiplicity events is removed by subtracting the distribution from low-multiplicity events. An azimuthal modulation remains after removing the jet contribution, similar to previous observations in two-particle angular correlation measurements for light-flavor hadrons. A Fourier decomposition of the modulation results in a positive second-order coefficient (v_{2}) for heavy-flavor decay electrons in the transverse momentum interval 1.5<p_{T}<4  GeV/c in high-multiplicity events, with a significance larger than 5σ. The results are compared with those of charged particles at midrapidity and those of inclusive muons at forward rapidity. The v_{2} measurement of open heavy-flavor particles at midrapidity in small collision systems could provide crucial information to help interpret the anisotropies observed in such systems.

Lavandula stoechas (L) a Very Potent Antioxidant Attenuates Dementia in Scopolamine Induced Memory Deficit Mice

The objective of the current project was to explore the pharmacotherapeutic role of Lavandula stoechas (L) for the management of dementia. Dementia is considered a global challenge of current century seeking special attention of pharmacologists to explore its best remedies. Methanolic extract of aerial parts of L. stoechas was tested for phytochemical analysis along with free radical scavenging activity. Behavioral studies were performed on scopolamine induced amnesic mice by using elevated plus maze (EPM), light and dark test and hole board paradigms. Biochemical investigations were made after decapitating the mice. Their brains were isolated for biochemical estimation of acetylcholinesterase (AChE), malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione (GSH). Phytochemical study ensured the presence of total phenolic contents (285.91 ± 0.75 mg of GAE/g of extract), total flavonoids (134.06 ± 0.63 mg of RE/g of extract), total tannins (149.60 ± 0.93 mg of TAE/g of extract) and free radical scavenging activity (IC₅₀ value = 76.73 μg/ml found by DPPH method). Behavioral studies indicated that animals of GVII showed higher inflexion ratio (0.40 ± 0.03) for EPM, spent most of time (227.17 ± 2.13 s) in dark area of light dark test and had many hole pockings (39.83 ± 1.88) for hole board paradigm. Moreover, biochemical studies revealed that methanolic extract of L. stoechas (800 mg/kg/p.o.) significantly (P < 0.001) reduced brain AChE and MDA levels while improved SOD, CAT, and GSH levels. Thus the findings suggest that L. stoechas stabilizes memory by enhancing cholinergic neurotransmission and by providing defense against oxidative stress in mice brain.

Ameliorating effect of Berberis lycium root bark extracts against cisplatin-induced nephropathy in rat

<p>The aim of this study was to investigate the sub-acute nephroprotective effect of <em>Berberis lycium</em> root bark extracts against cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity. Aqueous and methanol extracts (200 and 400 mg/kg) were co-administered with cisplatin (4 mg/kg) for 19 days. Results showed that cisplatin significantly (^ap&lt;0.05) raised the serum creatinine, uric acid, urea level as well as tissue MDA level as compared to control group. It decreased GST activity, tGSH and catalase activity in rats.  Both extracts significantly reduced the serum creatinine, urea and uric acid levels. Moreover, GST, CAT activity and tGSH content were significantly (p&lt;0.05) increased and MDA level was decreased. Histopathological examination showed that both extracts efficiently reversed the morphological changes and damage induced by cisplatin. It is concluded that both extracts of <em>B. lycium</em> root bark possess nephroprotective effect against cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity.</p><p><strong>Video Clip of Methodology:</strong></p><p>Histological study of rat kidney: 14 min 02 sec   <a href="https://www.youtube.com/v/QQGDo8e3HjQ">Full Screen</a>   <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QQGDo8e3HjQ">Alternate</a></p>

D-Meson Azimuthal Anisotropy in Midcentral Pb-Pb Collisions at sqrt[s]_{NN}=5.02 TeV

The azimuthal anisotropy coefficient v_{2} of prompt D^{0}, D^{+}, D^{*+}, and D_{s}^{+} mesons was measured in midcentral (30%-50% centrality class) Pb-Pb collisions at a center-of-mass energy per nucleon pair sqrt[s_{NN}]=5.02  TeV, with the ALICE detector at the LHC. The D mesons were reconstructed via their hadronic decays at midrapidity, |y|<0.8, in the transverse momentum interval 1<p_{T}<24  GeV/c. The measured D-meson v_{2} has similar values as that of charged pions. The D_{s}^{+} v_{2}, measured for the first time, is found to be compatible with that of nonstrange D mesons. The measurements are compared with theoretical calculations of charm-quark transport in a hydrodynamically expanding medium and have the potential to constrain medium parameters.

J/ψ Elliptic Flow in Pb-Pb Collisions at sqrt[s_{NN}]=5.02 TeV

We report a precise measurement of the J/ψ elliptic flow in Pb-Pb collisions at sqrt[s_{NN}]=5.02  TeV with the ALICE detector at the LHC. The J/ψ mesons are reconstructed at midrapidity (|y|<0.9) in the dielectron decay channel and at forward rapidity (2.5<y<4.0) in the dimuon channel, both down to zero transverse momentum. At forward rapidity, the elliptic flow v_{2} of the J/ψ is studied as a function of the transverse momentum and centrality. A positive v_{2} is observed in the transverse momentum range 2<p_{T}<8  GeV/c in the three centrality classes studied and confirms with higher statistics our earlier results at sqrt[s_{NN}]=2.76  TeV in semicentral collisions. At midrapidity, the J/ψ  v_{2} is investigated as a function of the transverse momentum in semicentral collisions and found to be in agreement with the measurements at forward rapidity. These results are compared to transport model calculations. The comparison supports the idea that at low p_{T} the elliptic flow of the J/ψ originates from the thermalization of charm quarks in the deconfined medium but suggests that additional mechanisms might be missing in the models.

Glutathione sulfotransferase inhibition activity of a self-fermented beverage, Kanji

CONTEXT

Kanji, a liquid preparation of roots of Daucus carota L. ssp. sativus (Hoffm.) Arcang. var. vavilovii Mazk. (Apiaceae), may inhibit glutathione sulfotransferase (GST) activity due to ferulic acid content.

OBJECTIVES

GST inhibition activity and characterization of Kanji and methanol extract of D. carota roots, and oral absorption pattern of ferulic acid from Kanji in rats.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

GST inhibition activity of Kanji and methanol extract of D. carota roots in concentration range 0.001-100.00 mg/mL was determined using Sprague Dawley rat liver cytosolic fraction. Methanol extract upon column chromatography gave ferulic acid, which was used to characterize Kanji and determine its oral absorption pattern in Wistar rats.

RESULTS

The GST inhibition activity of Kanji (100.00 μg/mL), methanol extract of D. carota roots (100.00 μg/mL) and tannic acid (10.00 μg/mL, positive control) was found to be 0.162 ± 0.016, 0.106 ± 0.013 and 0.073 ± 0.004 μM/min/mg, respectively. Different Kanji samples and methanol extract contained ferulic acid (0.222-0.316 mg/g) and 0.77 mg/g, respectively. Ferulic acid did not appear in plasma after oral administration of Kanji.

DISCUSSION

Kanji having solid contents 80.0 μg/mL, equivalent to 0.0025 μg/mL ferulic acid, does not inhibit the activity of GST. The oral administration of Kanji, in human equivalent dose (528 mg/kg, 16.67 μg ferulic acid), to rats indicated poor absorption of ferulic acid.

CONCLUSION

Kanji having solid contents 14-36 mg/mL does not inhibit GST activity, hence may not interfere with drugs that are the substrates of GST, if taken concomitantly.

Anomalous Evolution of the Near-Side Jet Peak Shape in Pb-Pb Collisions at sqrt[s_{NN}]=2.76 TeV

The measurement of two-particle angular correlations is a powerful tool to study jet quenching in a p_{T} region inaccessible by direct jet identification. In these measurements pseudorapidity (Δη) and azimuthal (Δφ) differences are used to extract the shape of the near-side peak formed by particles associated with a higher p_{T} trigger particle (1<p_{T,trig}<8  GeV/c). A combined fit of the near-side peak and long-range correlations is applied to the data allowing the extraction of the centrality evolution of the peak shape in Pb-Pb collisions at sqrt[s_{NN}]=2.76  TeV. A significant broadening of the peak in the Δη direction at low p_{T} is found from peripheral to central collisions, which vanishes above 4  GeV/c, while in the Δφ direction the peak is almost independent of centrality. For the 10% most central collisions and 1<p_{T,assoc}<2  GeV/c, 1<p_{T,trig}<3  GeV/c a novel feature is observed: a depletion develops around the center of the peak. The results are compared to pp collisions at the same center of mass energy and ampt model simulations. The comparison to the investigated models suggests that the broadening and the development of the depletion is connected to the strength of radial and longitudinal flow.

Energy dependence of forward-rapidity [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] production in pp collisions at the LHC

We present results on transverse momentum ([Formula: see text]) and rapidity ([Formula: see text]) differential production cross sections, mean transverse momentum and mean transverse momentum square of inclusive [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] at forward rapidity ([Formula: see text]) as well as [Formula: see text]-to-[Formula: see text] cross section ratios. These quantities are measured in pp collisions at center of mass energies [Formula: see text] and 13 TeV with the ALICE detector. Both charmonium states are reconstructed in the dimuon decay channel, using the muon spectrometer. A comprehensive comparison to inclusive charmonium cross sections measured at [Formula: see text], 7 and 8 TeV is performed. A comparison to non-relativistic quantum chromodynamics and fixed-order next-to-leading logarithm calculations, which describe prompt and non-prompt charmonium production respectively, is also presented. A good description of the data is obtained over the full [Formula: see text] range, provided that both contributions are summed. In particular, it is found that for [Formula: see text] GeV/c the non-prompt contribution reaches up to 50% of the total charmonium yield.

Production of Σ(1385)± and Ξ(1530)0 in p-Pb collisions at sNN=5.02 TeV

The transverse momentum distributions of the strange and double-strange hyperon resonances (Σ ( 1385 ) ± , Ξ ( 1530 ) 0 ) produced in p-Pb collisions at s NN = 5.02 TeV were measured in the rapidity range - 0.5 < y CMS < 0 for event classes corresponding to different charged-particle multiplicity densities, ⟨ dN ch /dη lab ⟩ . The mean transverse momentum values are presented as a function of ⟨ dN ch /dη lab ⟩ , as well as a function of the particle masses and compared with previous results on hyperon production. The integrated yield ratios of excited to ground-state hyperons are constant as a function of ⟨ dN ch /dη lab ⟩ . The equivalent ratios to pions exhibit an increase with ⟨ dN ch /dη lab ⟩ , depending on their strangeness content.

Production of [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] mesons up to high transverse momentum in pp collisions at 2.76 TeV

The invariant differential cross sections for inclusive [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] mesons at midrapidity were measured in pp collisions at [Formula: see text] TeV for transverse momenta [Formula: see text] GeV/c and [Formula: see text] GeV/c, respectively, using the ALICE detector. This large range in [Formula: see text] was achieved by combining various analysis techniques and different triggers involving the electromagnetic calorimeter (EMCal). In particular, a new single-cluster, shower-shape based method was developed for the identification of high-[Formula: see text] neutral pions, which exploits that the showers originating from their decay photons overlap in the EMCal. Above 4 GeV/[Formula: see text], the measured cross sections are found to exhibit a similar power-law behavior with an exponent of about 6.3. Next-to-leading-order perturbative QCD calculations differ from the measured cross sections by about 30% for the [Formula: see text], and between 30-50% for the [Formula: see text] meson, while generator-level simulations with PYTHIA 8.2 describe the data to better than 10-30%, except at [Formula: see text] GeV/[Formula: see text]. The new data can therefore be used to further improve the theoretical description of [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] meson production.

Flow Dominance and Factorization of Transverse Momentum Correlations in Pb-Pb Collisions at the LHC

We present the first measurement of the two-particle transverse momentum differential correlation function, P_{2}≡⟨Δp_{T}Δp_{T}⟩/⟨p_{T}⟩^{2}, in Pb-Pb collisions at sqrt[s_{NN}]=2.76  TeV. Results for P_{2} are reported as a function of the relative pseudorapidity (Δη) and azimuthal angle (Δφ) between two particles for different collision centralities. The Δϕ dependence is found to be largely independent of Δη for |Δη|≥0.9. In the 5% most central Pb-Pb collisions, the two-particle transverse momentum correlation function exhibits a clear double-hump structure around Δφ=π (i.e., on the away side), which is not observed in number correlations in the same centrality range, and thus provides an indication of the dominance of triangular flow in this collision centrality. Fourier decompositions of P_{2}, studied as a function of the collision centrality, show that correlations at |Δη|≥0.9 can be well reproduced by a flow ansatz based on the notion that measured transverse momentum correlations are strictly determined by the collective motion of the system.

Serial Femoral Fractures in An Amputation Stump: A Case Report

We report a case of an above-knee amputee who underwent dynamic hip screw fixation for a proximal femoral fracture and then open reduction and internal fixation a few years later for a further femoral fracture in the same stump. The patient had a good outcome. We aim to discuss the challenges in decision making, surgical technique and potential complications for the patient.

Novel primer specific false terminations during DNA sequencing reactions: danger of inaccuracy of mutation analysis in molecular diagnostics

The determination of nucleotide sequence is fundamental to the identification and molecular analysis of genes. Direct sequencing of PCR products is now becoming a commonplace procedure for haplotype analysis, and for defining mutations and polymorphism within genes, particularly for diagnostic purposes. A previously unrecognised phenomenon, primer related variability, observed in sequence data generated using Taq cycle sequencing and T7 Sequenase sequencing, is reported. This suggests that caution is necessary when interpreting DNA sequence data. This is particularly important in situations where treatment may be dependent on the accuracy of the molecular diagnosis.

Risk factors for multi-drug resistant tuberculosis in patients at tertiary care hospital, Peshawar

OBJECTIVE

To determine the frequency of common risk factors for multi-drug resistant tuberculosis in patients presented at a tertiary care hospital, Peshawar.

STUDY DESIGN

Cross-sectional, observational study.

PLACE AND DURATION OF STUDY

Pulmonology Department, Khyber Teaching Hospital, Peshawar, from December 2006 to October 2007.

METHODOLOGY

Patients with positive AFB culture and sensitivity results and found resistant to both rifampicin and isoniazid with or with resistance to other first line anti-tuberculosis drugs, were recruited from both Pulmonology Ward and Outpatient Department (OPD). Informed verbal consent was taken and a questionnaire administered to all participants of the study. Information regarding demographics, education status, occupation, monthly household income, AFB C/S, details of past history of tuberculosis and family history of TB or Multi-Drug Resistant (MDR-TB) was recorded. Data was analyzed on SPSS version 11.

RESULTS

A total of 30 patients of MDR-TB were interviewed. Male (n=17) and female (n=13) ratio was 1.3:1. Mean age was 34.2+/-15.3 years. Ninety-two percent female and 52.9% male were uneducated. In 56.7%, monthly income was less than 5,000 rupees and in 40% between 5,000-10,000 rupees. All patients had previous history of Antituberculous Treatment (ATT), in which 20% had undertaken ATT course once, 53.3% twice and 26.7% thrice in the past. In the study group, 13 (43.3%) patients had not completed their first ATT course and 11 of them were receiving ATT from a general practitioner (GP) at that time. Seven (23.3%) patients had family history of TB but no one had documented MDR-TB in the family. Resistance to RH was present in all patients; moreover, 56.7% had resistance to RHEZ+S.

CONCLUSION

The most common factors in the study group were previous history of tuberculosis, repeated courses of ATT, prescribed by different clinicians and unsupervised treatment by a GP during the initial course of ATT.