In vitro evaluation of Elaeagnus conferta Roxb.- As a potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent

573-580The key objective of the study was to identify bioactive compounds present in Elaeagnus conferta Roxb. and to determine their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory efficacy. Qualitative and quantitative preliminary screening of phyto-constituents was carried out using different solvent extracts, namely petroleum ether, ethyl acetate, acetone, ethanol, hydro-ethanol, and water, followed by in vitro antioxidant and anti-inflammatory assay. Among the six extracts, hydro-ethanolic extract revealed the presence of most of the secondary metabolites, which was used for further analysis. Antioxidant activity was determined by DPPH, Hydrogen peroxide scavenging assay and Nitric oxide scavenging assay. The results showed significant antioxidant potential in a strongly dose-dependent manner. Based on the antioxidant results, the in vitro anti-inflammatory assays were carried out. The anti-inflammatory assay inhibition of protein denaturation using egg albumin, bovine serum albumin and HRBC membrane stabilisation was done, which revealed that this plant species may serve as an excellent source of natural antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds. This study suggests that E. conferta Roxb. has potent efficacy to act as an anti-inflammatory agent and can possibly be used as a plant source in the pharmaceutical industry

New Publications

25-2

Impact of water mills on rural livelihood: A study of Arunachal Himalaya

88-99The Himalayan people have a rich ancient tradition and heritage of utilizing water mills (Chhoskor) for grinding purposes. The Shertukpen inhabits in the western and south-western parts of the West Kameng district of Arunachal Pradesh, Eastern Himalaya. It is an indigenous tribal group. They are carvers and experts in carving wood and stone. The purpose of this paper is to examine the rich culture of grinding practices through water mills (Chhoskor) by the Shertukpen hence, the practices of traditional watermills have an immense influence on the socio-economic and livelihood aspects of the society. It also examines how this traditional grinding practice is impacting the livelihood of rural areas. The major grinding products are food grains, fruits, vegetables, and other related products. The methods used in this study were interview, focused group discussion, and observation. A field visit was made in July 2022. The study shows that the tools of grinding are now become endangered and vulnerable. These require attention and study for preservation, whereas, the grinding practices have a huge socio-economic impact on rural areas

Climate Change Impact on Agriculture

24-2

First observation of Alpheus soror Bruce, 1999 (Caridea: Alpheidae) from Gulf of Mannar, Southern India with notes on A. lottini Guérin, 1830 [in Guérin, 1829-1830]

36-40Pistol shrimps Alpheus Fabricius, 1798 generally inhabit shallow depths of coral regions. A recent survey conducted at the Gulf of Mannar and Lakshadweep islands provided two species of Alpheus shrimps from the intertidal zone at 0.5 to 15 m depths. The study revealed that Alpheus soror Bruce, 1999 is a new report to the Gulf of Mannar and A. lottini Guérin, 1830 [in Guérin, 1829-1830] found in stony coral of genus Pocillopora sp. is a new report to Lakshadweep waters. The major intra and interspecific characters of these two species are described and discussed in detail

Disease knows no boundaries, and borders are porous to disease Transboundary Animal Diseases from an Indian Perspective

25-2

Pathogenic potential of biofilm-producing methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus in BALB/c mice

206-213Biofilm-forming methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is an emerging pathogen that adversely affects animal and human health. World Health Organization (WHO) has designated MRSA as a high-priority pathogen for research and development. In this study, we have investigated the pathogenic potential of MRSA recovered from mastitic milk of cow. The MRSA was initially characterized for coagulase, haemolytic and DNase activity followed by its biofilm forming ability. Further, an intravenous murine model of MRSA was developed using multiparameter approach comprising of disease activity score, viable bacterial count in blood and tissues; and, detection of biofilm mass in tissue. Infection was successfully established in mice following intravenous inoculation of 3 × 108 colony forming unit (CFU) per mL of MRSA. Fifty percent of MRSA-challenged mice died after infection whereas mice survived exhibited disease activity score >25. Significantly higher MRSA count was recorded in blood, liver and kidney of MRSA-challenged mice as compared to healthy mice (P <0.05). Gram staining revealed the presence of varied size of multiple clusters of Gram-positive biofilm mass in the liver and kidney of MRSA-challenged mice. This study on pathogenesis of MRSA in mice would be useful in not only controlling the MRSA infection, but also in the development of effective therapeutics

सामान्य िवज्ञान

64-6

Marine thraustochytrids a potential source for lipase: Challenges in industrial applications

463-474Marine microorganisms still belong to untapped natural resources and can harness a rich source of lipase enzymes with the potential industrial applications. Thraustochytrids are heterotrophic fungus like protists that can dissolve organic matters via enzymes. It has been less explored so far. Lipase is one of the most widely used enzymes, crucial to many biotechnological and industrial processes, including the food, paper, and oleochemical industries, as well as in applications related to pharmaceuticals. However, its application is relatively expensive and challenging due to its instability and aqueous solubility. Immobilization is a commonly employed strategy to enhance lipase activity, and it has proven to be a successful approach. In comparison to free lipase, immobilized lipase on nanomaterials (NMs) has demonstrated superior properties, including greater pH and temperature stability, a longer stable duration, and the ability to be recycled. However, under specific circumstances, protein loading is comparatively decreased and lipase immobilization on NMs might also occasionally result in activity loss. The overall performance of immobilized lipase is influenced by the NMs types and properties. This review addresses thraustochytrids potential for lipase production, emerging extraction techniques employing nanomaterials, and the significance of various techniques for lipase immobilization. The immobilized lipases' potential for several applications has also been taken into account

Cosmetological applications of Citrus limon: A mini-review

286-293Citrus limon has gained attention in cosmetology for its diverse bioactive compounds. This review explores its cosmetological applications, emphasising antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, skin-brightening, preservative, and substance-penetrating properties. The genus Citrus is briefly described, followed by details on C. limon's botanical features, distribution, phytochemical composition, and biological activities. Lem1, a natural compound from C. limon, exhibits strong antioxidant activity, making it a potential ingredient for natural anti-ageing skincare. C. limon's potent antimicrobial properties make it effective against various bacteria, addressing skin issues like acne and serving as a natural preservative in cosmetics. Rich in limonene and vitamin C, C. limon inhibits tyrosinase activity and reduces melanin formation, showing promise in cosmetics for controlling skin pigmentation and promoting even-toned, brighter skin. Safety considerations in cosmetic use are also addressed. Overall, C. limon is a valuable natural ingredient, enhancing efficacy and safety in cosmetic products