Assessment of Paracetamol Usage Practices and Perceptions among Caregivers for Children Post-COVID-19 in Saudi Arabia: A Cross-Sectional Analysis.

Caregivers often use paracetamol in the management of pediatric illnesses without a clear rationale. This study evaluated the perception and practices of caregivers regarding the use of paracetamol in children in Southwestern Saudi Arabia. This study involved a cross-sectional design involving 373 caregivers of children under twelve. The questionnaire elucidated the reasons, usage frequency, and safe usage practices. Data were analyzed using SPSS, applying Chi-square tests and logistic regression. Most caregivers were in the age range of 31-40 years, and with intermediate education. Paracetamol was mainly used for fever, generalized pain and, diarrhea, with fewer opting for other self-care measures. Caregivers with primary or less education were more likely to perceive paracetamol as safe (AOR = 2.98 (1.3-6.73), p = 0.009) and less inclined to check warning labels (AOR: 0.11 (0.05-0.25), p < 0.001) and expiry dates (AOR: 0.063 (0.027-0.14), p < 0.001). The caregiver's education level significantly influenced the determination of treatment duration (χ2 = 21.58 (4), p < 0.001), dosage (χ2 = 30.70 (4), p < 0.001), and frequency of administration (χ2 = 17.77 (4), p = 0.001). In conclusion, inadequate health literacy can result in a lack of attention towards crucial safety information about pediatric paracetamol use. Hence, counselling initiatives should be undertaken to ensure the safe and effective use of paracetamol in children.

Exploring the awareness, attitude, and inclination of healthcare students towards interprofessional education: A cross-sectional study in Saudi Arabia.

Background: Interprofessional education (IPE) is acknowledged to enhance understanding between professionals and to facilitate learning. Healthcare professionals may be better equipped to accept and esteem other healthcare professionals, if interprofessional education is incorporated into undergraduate curricula. The management of challenging patient issues may also significantly benefit from this. As a result, the current study examined interprofessional education in their institutions and students' knowledge of and attitudes toward it. Methodology: We conducted a cross-sectional questionnaire-based study among students from a university in the southwest of Saudi Arabia, who were enrolled in courses in medical, pharmacy, nursing, dentistry, allied health, and public health. Following validation, the questionnaire included six questions to probe their knowledge, ten questions to gauge their attitude, and eleven questions to inquire about the growth and use of IPE in their institutions. Multiple regression and the Kruskal-Wallis test were used to examine the data. Results: The survey involved 600 students, and 66.8% of the respondents were male. Less than one-third of students studying medicine replied to the survey, while students in the public health department had the lowest response rate. Compared to students in other programs, pharmacy students achieved a higher mean attitude score toward IPE (P < 0.001). Additionally, nursing and pharmacy students' mean IPE awareness scores were higher than those of medical students (P < 0.001). However, all program participants firmly agreed that integrating IPE into the curriculum was a good idea. Conclusions: The study found that students of a few programs had awareness and a positive attitude toward interprofessional education. Nonetheless, all of them favored its inclusion in their curriculum. They also stressed the need to educate teaching faculty on interprofessional education, to develop skilled facilitators within their institutions.

Amphetamine-Related Fatalities and Altered Brain Chemicals: A Preliminary Investigation Using the Comparative Toxicogenomic Database.

Amphetamine is a psychostimulant drug with a high risk of toxicity and death when misused. Abuse of amphetamines is associated with an altered organic profile, which includes omega fatty acids. Low omega fatty acid levels are linked to mental disorders. Using the Comparative Toxicogenomic Database (CTD), we investigated the chemical profile of the brain in amphetamine-related fatalities and the possibility of neurotoxicity. We classified amphetamine cases as low (0-0.5 g/mL), medium (>0.5 to 1.5 g/mL), and high (>1.5 g/mL), based on amphetamine levels in brain samples. All three groups shared 1-octadecene, 1-tridecene, 2,4-di-tert-butylphenol, arachidonic acid (AA), docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), eicosane, and oleylamide. We identified chemical-disease associations using the CTD tools and predicted an association between DHA, AA and curated conditions like autistic disorder, disorders related to cocaine, Alzheimer's disease, and cognitive dysfunction. An amphetamine challenge may cause neurotoxicity in the human brain due to a decrease in omega-3 fatty acids and an increase in oxidative products. Therefore, in cases of amphetamine toxicity, a supplement therapy may be needed to prevent omega-3 fatty acid deficiency.

Knowledge and Attitude of First-Aid Treatments for Snakebites, and the Perception of Snakes among the Students of Health Sciences at Jazan University, Saudi Arabia.

First aid is the most basic and life-saving service provided before emergency care is received. This study aimed to assess students' knowledge and attitudes about performing first aid for snakebite emergencies and their perception of snakes. A cross-sectional study was conducted between January and March 2019 among upper-level students (3rd year and above) of health-related courses at Jazan University, Saudi Arabia. Three hundred and nine students from four programs responded to the self-administered questionnaire. The collected data were analyzed using SPSS 23.0. The highest percentage of the study sample comprised pharmacy students (44%), followed by nursing (25.2%), medical (16.8%), and emergency medicine students (13.9%). Overall, the emergency medicine students exhibited greater knowledge of snakebite first aid. However, over three-fourths of the students were unaware of dry bites. Around two-thirds were sure that they should not massage the bite site, while nearly one-fourth were not sure about the use of a tourniquet. The fifth- and sixth-year students had extremely diverse perspectives on snakes. The majority of the participants (92.8%) did not feel good about snakes. However, most of the students (95.2%) wanted to learn about snakebite first aid and overcome their fear of snakes. Overall, the students had a positive attitude towards first aid but lacked knowledge of snakebite emergencies. Public health awareness is required to dispel first-aid myths about snakebites and misconceptions regarding snakes.

Public Awareness of Chronic Kidney Disease in Jazan Province, Saudi Arabia-A Cross-Sectional Survey.

Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is a significant public health concern worldwide and many people continue to ignore their early warning symptoms. The present study assessed the level of knowledge about CKD the awareness of the risk factors and the awareness of the complications associated with CKD, among the general population of Jazan Province, Saudi Arabia. 440 residents of Jazan Province participated in an online cross-sectional survey during a seven-month period from November (2020) to July (2021). Data was collected using a validated 73-item self-report survey. More than half of the respondents were males (n = 286; 65%) with an age ranging from 18 to 59 years, and a mean age of 32.66 years (SD ± 10.83). A very low percentage of the sample (27.3%; 7.5%, 9.3%) demonstrated good knowledge, a high level of awareness of the risk factors, and a high level of awareness of the complications associated with CKD, respectively. Participants' knowledge was significantly associated with being a student or being employed (Government/private employee) (χ2 = 29.90; p < 0.001), having completed graduate studies (χ2 = 63.86; p < 0.001), residing in urban areas (χ2 = 138.62; p < 0.001), belonging to the age group (18−39 years), and having no co-morbidities (χ2 = 24.55; p < 0.001). Positive and significant correlations were also noted between the knowledge score and the awareness of risk factor score (r = 0.42; p < 0.01), as well as the awareness of complications score (r = 0.25; p < 0.01). These findings warrant an urgent need for extensive CKD educational initiatives concentrating on improving the general knowledge and awareness of the public towards CKD.

Bioavailability, anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritic effect of Acetyl Keto Boswellic acid and its combination with methotrexate in an arthritic animal model.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Rheumatoid arthritis is one of the most common disabling chronic progressive autoimmune diseases affecting the adult world population. Boswellia serrata has been a known anti-inflammatory agent since ancient times. Therefore, research on Boswellia extract based on Acetyl Keto Boswellic Acid (AKBA) content evaluating its efficacy and safety is necessary. The study aimed to find a suitable Boswellia extract rich in AKBA to evaluate its bioavailability, anti-inflammatory, and anti-arthritic effect. In addition, the synergistic action of AKBA extract with methotrexate (MTX) was also assessed on an animal model. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Oral bioavailability of AKBA and the anti-inflammatory activity of 10% AKBA (5, 10, 20, 40 mg/kg b.w) was assessed and compared with 2% AKBA (40 mg/kg) and diclofenac (10 mg/kg). The effect of 10% AKBA at 20 mg/kg and 40 mg/kg was evaluated in the FCA induced arthritis animal model alone and combined with methotrexate (MTX) at 2 mg/kg b.w. Subplantar injection of FCA produced edema within a few hours with progressive arthritis by the 9th day after injection. All the treatments were initiated from the 10th day until the 45th day. Oral administration of 10% AKBA was done daily and MTX by intraperitoneal route once a week from day 10 to day 45. Paw volume, erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), serum glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase (SGOT), serum glutamic pyruvic transaminase (SGPT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), total bilirubin, oxidative markers (superoxide dismutase (SOD) levels, malondialdehyde (MDA), total proteins and liver histopathology were examined. RESULTS: 10% AKBA provided 8.48-fold, 24.22-fold, 47.36-fold, and 110.53-fold higher AUC (0-α) of AKBA at 5 mg/kg, 10 mg/kg, 20 mg/kg and 40 mg/kg, respectively compared to 2% AKBA at 40 mg/kg. Percentage paw edema inhibition of 10% AKBA at 20 mg/kg and 40 mg/kg were significantly higher than 2% regular AKBA (40 mg/kg) and diclofenac (10 mg/kg). 10% AKBA at a dose of 20 and 40 mg/kg significantly reduced ESR compared with FCA treated group. A combination of methotrexate with 10% AKBA showed the highest reduction in ESR. 10% AKBA at both dose levels significantly reduced hepatic marker enzymes and total bilirubin levels. Treatment with 10% AKBA showed a significant increase in total proteins, antioxidant enzymes and a decrease in malondialdehyde levels. Similarly, 10% AKBA protected the hepatocytes compared with the FCA and FCA + MTX treated group. 10% AKBA was capable of significantly minimizing FCA and FCA + MTX induced changes. CONCLUSION: Anti-inflammatory activity of AKBA due to inhibition of lipoxygenase (LOX) enzymes supports the use of AKBA in inflammatory disorders. Combination therapy of 10% AKBA with MTX is effective in inhibiting arthritis and circumventing hepatotoxicity produced by MTX in arthritic animals.

Neuroinflammation: The Role of Anthocyanins as Neuroprotectants.

Neuroinflammation is a trigger for several neurodegenerative and neuropsychiatric disorders. Exposure to noxious external stimuli induces homeostatic disturbances resulting in morphological changes in microglia, their activation, and elaboration of pro-inflammatory mediators. This leads to neuroinflammation with the progressive loss of neurons. Nutraceuticals such as anthocyanins are a class of brightly colored bioactive compounds present in fruits and vegetables with purported health benefits. They interfere with the activation of several signaling cascades that have a prominent role in preventing neuroinflammation. More importantly, anthocyanins can cross the blood-brain barrier and are safe. Hence, the current review focuses on the bioavailability of anthocyanins, clinical and in vitro evidence on their role in impeding the activation of transcription factors, modulating the immune milieu within the central nervous system, preventing the activation of microglia, and averting neuroinflammation.

Quality control and drug-drug interactions between commercially available Metoprolol and Glimepiride tablets

Abstract Quality is paramount and needs to be maintained throughout the shelf life of pharmaceuticals. The current study aimed to evaluate the quality, potency, and drug-drug interaction in an in vivo animal model by using two drugs, namely, metoprolol and glimepiride. Tablets were selected for their physical characteristics, such as shape, size, and color. Quality control tests, such as weight variation, hardness, friability, and disintegration tests, and invitro drug release studies were performed as per USP. Drug-drug interaction and in vivo studies were carried out according to the standard protocol of the animal ethics committee. Quality control tests of both the tablets were within the specified range. The cumulative release percentages of the drugs were 81.12% and 85.36% for Metoprolol Tartrate and Glimepiride, respectively, in a physiological buffer solution within 1 h. The combination of metoprolol and Glimepiride also significantly decreased the blood glucose level in diabetic animals. However, the blood glucose level increased in the group receiving metoprolol only, but the difference was not significant. The result suggested that the formulations are safe. However, the chronic use of this combination requires frequent monitoring of blood glucose level to improve its efficacy and for the patient's safety.

A survey assessing sleep efficiency among Saudis during COVID-19 home confinement using the Pittsburgh sleep quality index: A call for health education.

The COVID-19 pandemic has introduced uncertainties that have disrupted regular routines. Sleep may be adversely affected by stressful circumstances that jeopardize general health. Hence, the impact of home confinement on the sleep efficiency of the general population was assessed. An online survey was conducted by using the Pittsburgh sleep quality index (PSQI) to assess sleep duration, sleep efficiency, latency to fall asleep, and global PSQI score. Questions pertaining to demography, home confinement, and anxiety were included. Data was collected from the residents of the Southwestern region from April 15, 2020 to May 15, 2020. Data were analyzed through bivariate, multivariate logistic regression, and independent t tests. A total of 593 subjects responded to the survey. Males (OR 1.92 [1.3-2.7], p < 0.001), and subjects aged ≥51 years (OR 2.49 [1.3-4.4], p = 0.002) were more likely to be poor sleepers (<6 h). In hypertensive subjects, inadequate sleep was twice as high (OR 2.2 [1.1-4.4], p < 0.05) than other comorbidities. Males were less likely to have sleep latency (OR 0.58 [0.40-0.86], p = 0.005) but smoking increased the latency of falling asleep (OR 2.41 [1.47-4.0], p < 0.001). Sleep duration was significantly influenced by home confinement (p = 0.002), whereas sleep duration (p = 0.001), latency (p = 0.018), sleep efficiency (p = 0.005), and global PSQI scores (p = 0.005) were significantly affected by anxiety. In the southwestern region, we found sleep influenced by anxiety about COVID-19. Community pharmacists are the most accessible health care professionals and could play a pivotal role in educating the lay public on the importance of sleep hygiene through posters displayed in pharmacies and with the help of public education material.

Intraoperative Floppy Iris Syndrome Induced by Tamsulosin: The Risk and Preventive Strategies.

Tamsulosin is an antagonist of a subtype-specific alpha-1A- and alpha-1D-adrenoceptor (AR) that is expressed in the prostate gland, urethra, and bladder. Several reports have shown a possible relationship between ophthalmologic adverse effects and the use of alpha-1-receptor medicines, including tamsulosin. This descriptive review evaluates the intraoperative floppy iris syndrome (IFIS) associated with tamsulosin. A search of the Medline and PubMed databases was conducted to identify control trials, case reports, and observational examinations published in English. The publication dates were restricted (January 1, 2000, to January 1, 2020). Keywords (tamsulosin, alpha-blocker, ocular, eye, adverse reaction, and IFIS) were used in the searches. The searches identified 66 studies including in vitro or in vivo studies, trials, and observational studies. Twenty-two (33.33%) studies were articles citing tamsulosin and IFIS as having confirmed potential risk to ocular safety. The results of this review, including a comprehensive summary of published research on tamsulosin use in different populations, have identified several articles showing associations between tamsulosin and IFIS that merit further investigation. Suspending of potential causative pharmacological treatment of IFIS before ocular surgery including tamsulosin, proper identification of at-risk patients, preoperative prophylaxis treatments, and surgical technique modifications clearly can mitigate the anticipated risk of IFIS induced by tamsulosin.

Calming the inflammatory storm in severe COVID-19 infections: Role of biologics- A narrative review.

The risk of Coronavirus infection continues, and the fear of resurgence indicates the lack of a successful therapeutic strategy. In severe COVID-19 infection, many immune cells and their products are involved, making management difficult. The abundant release of cytokines and chemokines in severe COVID-19 patients leads to profound hyper inflammation and the mobilization of immune cells, triggering the cytokine storm. The complications associated with the cytokine storm include severe respiratory distress, intravascular coagulation, multi-organ failure, and death. The enormous formation of interleukin (IL)-6 and hemopoietic factors such as granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF) are implicated in the severity of the infection. Moreover, these inflammatory cytokines and factors signal through the Janus kinase (JAK)-signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) pathway causing the activation of cytokine-related genes. The neutralization of these proteins could be of therapeutic help in COVID-19 patients and could mitigate the risk of mortality. IL-6 antagonist, IL-6 receptor antagonists, GM-CSF receptor inhibitors, and JAK-STAT inhibitors are being investigated to prevent intense lung injury in COVID-19 patients and increase the chances of survival. The review focuses the role of IL-6, GM-CSF, and JAK-STAT inhibitors in regulating the immune response in severely affected COVID-19 patients.

Neuroprotective Effect of Turmeric Extract in Combination with Its Essential Oil and Enhanced Brain Bioavailability in an Animal Model.

PURPOSE: The study evaluated the neuroprotective effect and pharmacokinetic profile of turmeric extract and their metabolites in the blood and brain in an aluminum-induced neurotoxic animal model. METHODS: Swiss albino mice received turmeric extract (TE), TE-essential oil combination (TE+EO) at doses of 25 and 50 mg/kg/day orally, vehicle (control), and a positive control group. Neurotoxicity was induced by injecting aluminum chloride (40 mg/kg/day, i.p.), and the effect of the intervention was studied for 45 days. The pharmacokinetic and behavioral biochemical markers of brain function and brain histopathological changes were evaluated. RESULTS: The AUC 0-t showed a 30.1 and 54.2 times higher free curcumin concentration in plasma with 25 mg/kg and 50 mg/kg of TE+EO vs. TE, respectively. The concentration of free curcumin in the brain was 11.01 and 13.71-fold higher for 25 mg/kg and 50 mg/kg of TE+EO vs. TE, respectively. Aluminum impairs spatial learning and memory, which was significantly reversed with TE+EO by 28.6% (25 mg/kg) and 39.4% (50 mg/kg). In the elevated plus maze test, 44.8% (25 mg/kg) and 67.1% (50 mg/kg) improvements were observed. A significant reduction in aluminum-induced lipid peroxidation was observed. Also, the levels of glutathione, acetylcholinesterase, and catalase were improved with TE+EO. Damage to the hippocampal pyramidal cells was averted with TE+EO. CONCLUSION: The neuroprotective and antioxidant response confirms the benefits of TE+EO against aluminum-induced neurotoxicity. The presence of free curcumin and its metabolites in the brain and plasma establishes its improved bioavailability and tissue distribution. Therefore, the benefits of TE+EO could be harnessed in neurodegenerative diseases.

Awareness and Preparedness of COVID-19 Outbreak Among Healthcare Workers and Other Residents of South-West Saudi Arabia: A Cross-Sectional Survey.

Background: Coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) was declared a "pandemic" by the World Health Organization (WHO) in early March 2020. Globally, extraordinary measures are being adopted to combat the formidable spread of the ongoing outbreak. Under such conditions, people's adherence to preventive measures is greatly affected by their awareness of the disease. Aim: This study was aimed to assess the level of awareness and preparedness to fight against COVID-19 among the healthcare workers (HCWs) and other residents of the South-West Saudi Arabia. Methods: A community-based, cross-sectional survey was conducted using a self-developed structured questionnaire that was randomly distributed online among HCWs and other residents (age ≥ 12 years) of South-West Saudi Arabia for feedback. The collected data were analyzed using Stata 15 statistical software. Results: Among 1,000 participants, 36.7% were HCWs, 53.9% were female, and 44.1% were aged ≥ 30 years. Majority of respondents showed awareness of COVID-19 (98.7%) as a deadly, contagious, and life-threatening disease (99.6%) that is transmitted through human-to-human contact (97.7%). They were familiar with the associated symptoms and common causes of COVID-19. Health organizations were chosen as the most reliable source of information by majority of the participants (89.6%). Hand hygiene (92.7%) and social distancing (92.3%) were the most common preventive measures taken by respondents that were followed by avoiding traveling (86.9%) to an infected area or country and wearing face masks (86.5%). Significant proportions of HCWs (P < 0.05) and more educated participants (P < 0.05) showed considerable knowledge of the disease, and all respondents displayed good preparedness for the prevention and control of COVID-19. Age, gender, and area were non-significant predictors of COVID-19 awareness. Conclusion: As the global threat of COVID-19 continues to emerge, it is critical to improve the awareness and preparedness of the targeted community members, especially the less educated ones. Educational interventions are urgently needed to reach the targeted residents beyond borders and further measures are warranted. The outcome of this study highlighted a growing need for the adoption of innovative local strategies to improve awareness in general population related to COVID-19 and its preventative practices in order to meet its elimination goals.

Direct Medical Expenditures Associated with Eye Complications among Adults with Diabetes in the United States.

OBJECTIVES: National estimates of healthcare expenditures by types of services for adults with comorbid diabetes and eye complications (ECs) are scarce. Therefore, the first objective of this study is to estimate total healthcare expenditures and expenditures by types of services (inpatient, outpatient, prescription, and emergency) for adults with ECs. The second objective is to estimate the out-of-pocket spending burden among adults with ECs. Study Design. A cross-sectional study design using data from multiple panels (2009-2015) of the Medical Expenditure Panel Survey was employed. The sample included adults aged 21 years or older with diabetes (n = 8,420). Principal Findings. Of adults with diabetes, 18.9% had ECs. Adults ECs had significantly higher incremental total medical expenditures of $3,125. The highest incremental expenditures were associated with outpatient and prescription drugs. After controlling for sex, age, race, poverty level, insurance coverage, prescription coverage, perceived physical and mental health, the number of chronic physical and mental conditions, marital status, education, the region of residence, smoking status, exercise, and chronic kidney disease (CKD), there was no difference in the out-of-pocket spending burden between adults with and those without ECs. However, adults with comorbid diabetes and CKD were more likely to have the out-of-pocket spending burden than those without CKD. CONCLUSIONS: The study showed that ECs in individuals with diabetes are associated with high incremental direct medical and out-of-pocket expenditures. Therefore, it requires more health initiatives, interventions, strategies, and programs to address and minimize the risk involved in such affected individuals.

Evaluation of mutagenic and anti-mutagenic potential of alpha-lipoic acid by chromosomal aberration assay in mice.

This study investigated both the mutagenicity and anti-mutagenicity of alpha-lipoic acid (ALA) in the bone marrow cells of mice using a chromosomal aberration assay. Cyclophosphamide (CP) 40 mg/kg was used as a clastogen in the positive control, and a vehicle-treated negative control group was also included. Multiple dose levels (15, 30, and 100 mg/kg of ALA) were given by intraperitoneal injection (IP) alone and in combination with CP (CP was administered 1 h prior to ALA). Bone marrow samples were collected 12 and 24 h after drug administration. The results demonstrated a significant increase in the frequency of chromosomal aberrations (CA) in bone marrow cells with depressions in the mitotic index (MI) of the positive control group of mice. However, in the groups of mice treated with different doses of ALA in the presence of CP, the percentages of CA decreased significantly with increases in mitotic activity. The results also indicate that ALA given alone in different doses had no mutagenic effect on mouse bone marrow cells. ALA has a dose and time-dependent protective effect against the mutagenicity induced by CP.

Curcumin and hesperidin improve cognition by suppressing mitochondrial dysfunction and apoptosis induced by D-galactose in rat brain.

D-galactose, a reducing sugar, induces oxidative stress resulting in alteration in mitochondrial dynamics and apoptosis of neurons. Curcumin and hesperidin are antioxidants possessing multimodal functions; hence, their contribution in minimizing D-galactose induced ageing was assessed in the present study. A week prior to D-galactose treatment (150 mg/kg; s.c. for 56 days), animals were treated with curcumin alone, hesperidin alone and a combination of curcumin (50 and 100 mg/kg; orally) with hesperidin (10 and 25 mg/kg; orally) for 63 days. A naïve control was also maintained. Behavioural studies, tricarboxylic acid cycle enzymes, mitochondrial complexes, protein and lipid oxidation and glutathione levels were assessed in the brain mitochondrial fraction. Western blot analysis of caspase-3, cleaved caspase-3 and histological assessment of the CA1 region of the hippocampus were carried out. D-galactose induced significant cognitive deficits, biochemical changes and histological alterations. Individually, curcumin was more effective than hesperidin in reducing the levels of oxidized lipids, proteins, cleaved caspase-3 expression and mitochondrial enzymes. The combination reduced the expression of cleaved caspase-3, malondialdehyde, improved mitochondrial enzymes and glutathione levels. In combination, curcumin and hesperidin protect the morphological facets and improve biochemical functions of neurons thereby improving cognition.

Carbosulfan exposure during embryonic period can cause developmental disability in rats.

Carbosulfan, a wide spectrum pesticide is used to improve crop productivity. During their application, they disperse in the environment exerting harmful consequences on human health. We speculated that exposure to carbosulfan, a carbamate insecticide during early development can affect neurogenesis and synaptic development. In order to test this, pregnant dams were exposed to carbosulfan in four doses (0.5, 1, 2, and 4mg/kg) during the embryonic period (ED 1-15). Offspring were evaluated for neurobehavioral changes, oxidative markers, acetylcholinesterase levels, and formation of carbonylated proteins. Histopathology of the cerebellum was carried out. Carbosulfan exposure produced alteration in sensorimotor tasks, motor function and elevated anxiety in pups. Carbosulfan affected growth rate of pups in a dose dependent manner. A significant increase in malondialdehyde, a lipid peroxide marker, carbonylated proteins and a dose dependent decrease in the levels of glutathione and glutathione peroxidase were observed. Carbosulfan produced a decline in acetylcholinesterase levels which might contribute to poor exploratory behavior. Distinct changes in the Purkinje cells were observed as the dose of carbosulfan increased. Largely, alteration in behavior can be due to oxidative damage, thereby, affecting neurogenesis, synaptogenesis and myelination. Therefore the propensity of carbosulfan to induce developmental disability is high and should be cautiously avoided during embryonic development.

Role of Triticum aestivum aqueous extract in glucocorticoid induced osteoporosis in rats.

Administration of aqueous extract of T. aestivum (200 and 400 mg/kg/day, po, for 30 days) and risedronate (20 microg/kg, sc, five times a week for 30 days) following methyl prednisolone sodium succinate (10 mg/kg, sc, thrice a week for 4 weeks) induced osteoporosis in Wistar rats showed an increase in the serum levels of bone mineral content markers, decrease in the serum and urinary levels of bone resorption markers. An incline in strength of femur and tibia was seen particularly with 400 mg/kg of T. aestivum. Maintenance of calcium homeostasis, formation of collagen and scavenging of free radicals can plausibly be the mode of action of aqueous extract of T. aestivum thereby combating osteoporosis induced by glucocorticoids.

Determination of antioxidant capacity, α-amylase and lipase inhibitory activity of Crotalaria juncea Linn in vitro inhibitory activity of Crotalaria Juncea Linn.

The present study involves the determination of antioxidant capacity and in vitro α-amylase and lipase inhibitory activity of the Crotalaria juncea Linn extract. The content of polyphenols, flavonoids, and tannins in the extracts was estimated by spectrophotometry. Antioxidant activity on goat liver lipid peroxidation and linoleic acid emulsion were determined and α-amylase and lipase inhibitory activity was also evaluated. All the extracts had shown antioxidant property, α-amylase, and lipase inhibitory properties. Aqueous extract was found to show maximum antioxidant activity on goat liver. Antilipid peroxidation and antioxidant activity were determined to be 66.94 ± 0.616 (p < .01) and 59.54 ± 0.2 (p < .01), respectively. Maximum α-amylase and lipase inhibitory activities of 71.42 ± 1.37 (p < .01) and 57.14 ± 2.74% (p < .01), respectively, were exhibited by macerated methanol extract. The results had shown that all the extracts exhibited low inhibition and antioxidant activity as compared to standard.

Zingerone regulates intestinal transit, attenuates behavioral and oxidative perturbations in irritable bowel disorder in rats.

Stress can lead to the manifestation of functional gastrointestinal disorders, the most prominent being irritable bowel disorder. The present study investigated the impact zingerone in ameliorating chronic water stress induced irritable bowel disorder, brain gut axis dysfunction and dysregulation of the intestinal barrier due to oxidative stress. Rats were randomly allocated to groups and subjected to chronic water stress for a period of 21 days for 1h and the fecal pellet output was measured. At the end of chronic stress, behavioral assessment for anxiety like behavior was recorded and plasma corticosterone levels were measured 60min after water stress. The colonic transit was determined, levels of oxidative and antioxidant biomarkers were measured in the colon homogenate. Myeloperoxidase activity was determined as an indirect index of neutrophil infiltration. Chronic water stress increased the rate of colonic transit, fecal output, induced behavioral changes, and decreased antioxidant levels. An increase in lipid peroxide levels, catalase and corticosterone was observed. Mast cell infiltration was evident in the stressed group. Zingerone significantly reduced colonic transit, fecal output, neutrophil infiltration, and lipid peroxide formation. The levels of catalase were not altered; however, a marginal increase in the levels of glutathione peroxidase was observed. Zingerone significantly enhanced the levels of superoxide dismutase, glutathione and decreased the levels of corticosterone. Zingerone produced marked improvement in stress induced irritable bowel disorder which could be attributed to the powerful antioxidant nature, direct effect on the intestinal smooth muscle and adaptogenic nature.