QUANTITATIVE ANALYSIS OF CYTISINE IN THERMOPSIS ALTERNIFLORAE USING HIGH-PERFORMANCE THIN-LAYER CHROMATOGRAPHY

Objective: An optimized high-performance thin-layer chromatography (HPTLC) method has been established for the quantification of cytisine in Thermopsis alterniflorae Regel and Schmalh. Methods: Alcoholic extract of the aerial parts were prepared using Soxhlet extraction method. Separation was achieved on silica gel 60 F254 HPTLC plates using toluene-ethyl acetate-diethyl amine (7:2:1, v/v) as the mobile phase. The quantitation of cytisine was carried out using densitometric scanning at 545 nm after derivatization using Dragendorff’s reagent. Results: The linear regression analysis data for the calibration plot showed a good linear relationship (r2 = 0.9849) in the concentration range 10 to 15 µg/spot. The method was validated for precision, repeatability, accuracy, specificity, limit of detection and limit of quantification. The average recovery was 99.0899% indicating good accuracy. The percentage yield of cytisine obtained was 0.5075+0.0135 % w/w. Conclusion: The proposed HPTLC method was found to be simple, sensitive, accurate, reproducible, and robust

Pre-service Teacher Education in Game-Based Learning: Cultivating Knowledge and Skills for Integrating Digital Games in K-12 classrooms

This mixed methods study investigates pre-service teacher education in game-based learning. Fourteen (9 graduate and 5 undergraduate) pre-service teachers completed a 10-weeks game-based learning course, which prepared them in game analysis, game integration, and ecological conditions impacting game use in school contexts using the Game Network Analysis (GaNA) framework. It was found that participants acquired knowledge of the methods involved in game-based learning. Learning about the significance of teacher roles, game selection, and contextual factors for successful adoption of games in schools was particularly insightful for participants. The quantitative component of the study examined knowledge gain using a range of instruments, including pretest-posttest knowledge surveys and pretest-midtest-posttest game integration scenario tests. Despite no prior education in game-based learning, casual to limited game playing experience, and emergent school practicum experience, participants acquired statistically significant knowledge about game analysis, game integration, and ecological conditions impacting game use in K-12 settings. They also successfully demonstrated the application of their knowledge to design game-based learning lesson plans. The interpretive component of this study examined the nature of understanding participants acquired about game-based learning and the methods involved in game-based learning. Data obtained from pretest-posttest knowledge surveys and pretest-midtest-posttest game integration scenario tests were triangulated with data collected using a pre-background survey, participant and video observations, and a post-focus group interview. Analyses of these data indicated that participants’ knowledge about game analysis evolved from game explorations and selection to evaluation, leading them use their information about the game for developing an implementation plan. Participants’ understanding of game integration encompassed teacher and student roles in a game-based classroom and the design of experiences to augment the impact of games for teaching and learning. Participants comprehended the situated nature of teachers' knowledge of game-based learning. They began to recognize how technological, social, and pedagogical factors within their context could not only impact teachers’ decisions during game analysis and integration, but also impact the overall success of adoption of game-based learning as an instructional approach. The findings of this study indicate that pre-service teacher education in the methods of game-based learning is important. This study can inform the design of opportunities for developing and assessing teachers’ competence in game-based learning. Finally, this research supports the arguments for research on advancing the use of digital games in K-12 education in an ecological manner.Ph.D., Educational Leadership Development and Learning Technologies -- Drexel University, 201

Histopathological study of precursor and neoplastic lesions of endometrium in endometrial samplings

Background: Endometrial lesion presenting as abnormal uterine bleeding, abdominal pain and menstrual irregularities form most common presenting complaint in women of reproductive age group and in premenopausal women. Endometrial sampling is a safe and effective diagnostic step in evaluation of abnormal uterine bleeding (AUB). The present study was carried out to establish histopathological diagnosis of precursor and neoplastic lesions of endometrial samplings in correlation with clinical details and other investigations.Methods: A two-year prospective study was carried out in the department of pathology in a tertiary care hospital from June 2013-May 2015 which included endometrial samplings of precursor and neoplastic lesions. All cases were analyzed histopathologically.Results: The study included 46 cases comprising 30% of total 153 endometrial samplings. Out of these, precursor lesions were 36 cases (23.6%) and malignant were 10 case (5.8%). The highest incidence of precursor lesions (endometrial hyperplasia) was in the age group of 41- 50 years. Among the precursor lesions, endometrial hyperplasia without atypia (86%) was the commonest observation followed by atypical hyperplasia (14%).Conclusions: For the correct evaluation of cases presenting with AUB, histopathological evaluation of endometrial samplings is the gold standard method

Exploring Herbal Remedies For Skin Cancer: A Comprehensive Review

Skin cancer, ranked as the fifth most prevalent cancer, is a rising health threat, emphasizing the need for innovative treatments. Genetic mutations cause skin cell abnormalities leading to various cancers, especially melanoma. Current treatments, such as radiation therapy and chemotherapy, have limitations, necessitating advancements in technology and therapy. Early detection is crucial for effective intervention, and diagnostic methods encompass blood tests, imaging, biopsies, and genetic tests, followed by staging to determine disease severity. This review focuses on herbal remedies from medicinal plants like ursolic acid, genistic acid, luteolin, curcumin, and others, demonstrating anti-cancer properties in inhibiting proliferation and modulating molecular processes. Studies, primarily in vitro and animals, offer insights into their potential for skin cancer prevention. The review synthesizes diverse literature, providing nuanced insights into herbal remedies’ molecular mechanisms for innovative therapeutic approaches. Emphasizing the importance of human trials, particularly for compounds like ursolic acid and genistic acid, is crucial for validating efficacy and safety. Herbal remedies align with WHO recommendations, holding promise for more effective and holistic skin cancer treatments. Ongoing research supports the integration of these compounds into treatment protocols, marking a hopeful frontier in combatting this pervasive disease

Comprehensive Review Of Rheumatoid Arthritis: Insights, Challenges, And Prospects

This comprehensive review explores the multifaceted landscape of rheumatoid arthritis (RA), encompassing its epidemiology, pathophysiology, clinical manifestations, diagnosis, treatment approaches, and the impact on patients' quality of life. The review delves into the global prevalence of RA, demographic patterns, and associated risk factors, shedding light on the complex interplay of genetics, immunology, and environmental triggers in disease development. The pathophysiological mechanisms involving immunological dysregulation, genetic factors, and environmental triggers are elucidated, providing a foundation for understanding the intricate processes driving RA. Detailed insights into the clinical manifestations of RA, including joint involvement, extra-articular manifestations, and the progression of the disease, are provided. The diagnostic landscape is explored, covering the ACR/EULAR classification criteria, diagnostic imaging, and laboratory tests that facilitate accurate and timely identification of RA. Treatment approaches, from pharmacological therapies like DMARDs and biologics to non-pharmacological interventions such as physical and occupational therapy, emphasizing a holistic management strategy. The economic burden of RA, its impact on healthcare utilization, and the broader societal implications are scrutinized, providing valuable insights into the challenges faced by both individuals and healthcare systems. Prevention and disease management strategies are highlighted, emphasizing the importance of early intervention, patient education, and public health initiatives in mitigating the impact of RA. Current challenges in RA management are outlined, with proposed future research directions aimed at advancing understanding and treatment

Revolutionizing Drug Delivery: The Role of Nanofibers - A Review

The field of drug delivery has experienced a paradigm shift with the emergence of nanofibers as an innovative carrier system. This comprehensive review aims to delve into the multifaceted role of nanofibers in drug delivery, highlighting their unique properties and diverse applications in therapeutic interventions. Nanofibers, characterized by their high surface area-to-volume ratio and tunable properties, offer an exceptional platform for targeted and controlled drug release. Their versatile nature allows for precise engineering of size, morphology, and surface functionalities, enabling tailored drug delivery systems catering to specific therapeutic needs. This review encompasses a detailed analysis of the various fabrication techniques employed in producing nanofibers, encompassing electrospinning, self-assembly, and other advanced methodologies. Furthermore, the review presents an extensive survey of the diverse range of materials utilized in nanofiber production, such as polymers, proteins, and inorganic compounds, emphasizing their distinct advantages in drug encapsulation, protection, and release kinetics.The application spectrum of nanofibers in drug delivery is explored, spanning across various medical domains including cancer therapy, tissue engineering, wound healing, and infectious disease treatment. The review delves into recent advancements, challenges, and future prospects in this burgeoning field, underscoring the potential for nanofibers to revolutionize drug delivery strategies and improve therapeutic outcomes.In conclusion, this review underscores the pivotal role of nanofibers as a novel and promising carrier system in drug delivery, presenting a compelling case for their continued exploration and utilization in advancing medical treatments

NOVEL TOPICAL ANTI-AGING HERBAL COMPOSITION

Objective: Anti-aging formulations are among the premier skin care products in the global market that are in huge demand. Different treatments are available to slow down skin aging, but are very expensive and are often found to produce adverse reactions to the skin in prolong use. Hence, present study has been designed to formulate poly herbal anti-aging skin care products and their evaluation thereon. Methods: Anti-aging herbal skin care cream, gel and serum were prepared using two medicinal plants Hippophae salicifolia and Celosia argentea along with three bioactives caffeine, rutin and bakuchiol. The formulations were evaluated for physicochemical parameters like pH, texture analysis, acid value, short-term stability study, etc. Phenolics and flavanoid content were determined. Anti-aging potential was gauged by in silico studies using the glide tool of ‘Schrodinger’. Results: Cream, gel and serum showed good physical appearance and were free from gritty particles and with smooth texture. Accelerated stability studies indicated insignificant changes in physicochemical parameters of the formulations. Based on the docking score and interaction with amino acid, compounds present in the plant extracts and bioactive showed good anti-aging activity. Conclusion: The prepared herbal anti-aging formulations were found to be stable and exhibited good potential as an anti-aging combination. So, they can be used as an effective combination to protect skin from aging

Sugarcane Fermentation: Probiotics and Gut Benefits

Sugarcane is rich in dietary fibers and is known for its positive effects on the gastrointestinal tract. It offers a wide array of health benefits for mammals. The sugar industry generates substantial residue amounts. Fermenting sugarcane with probiotic strains positively impacted gut flora in all instances. Maintaining the viability of these probiotic microorganisms is crucial when creating functional food products. Several factors can reduce their effectiveness in the gut. Sugarcane juice contains high levels of nutrients, minerals, and polyphenolic compounds, devoid of allergens and easily accessible. Fruit juices serve as excellent carriers for probiotics. Creating probiotic beverages while preserving taste and appearance is an innovative approach. The combination of probiotics and other dietary substances is gaining interest in promoting gastrointestinal health. Sugarcane juice, rich in nutrients and beneficial properties, is an optimal vehicle for probiotic organisms, contributing to overall health. Consequently, selecting appropriate probiotics and ensuring their effective delivery poses a technological challenge. This paper offers an overview of research articles summarizing procedures and techniques for enhancing probiotic viability. It also discusses ongoing research and challenges while outlining future opportunities for researchers based on existing literature

High resolution-mass spectrometry (HR-MS) analysis of Bryonia laciniosa L.

617-624Bryonia laciniosa L. (Family: Cucurbitaceae) is commonly known as ‘Shivlingi’ and is a highly valued medicinal plant in Ayurveda and Homeopathy systems of medicine particularly as a remedy for infertility. In the present study, sophisticated, highly reliable, and sensitive high resolution-mass spectrometry (HR-MS) was carried out for the determination of chemical constituents present in B. laciniosa. Phytochemical screening of methanolic extract showed the presence of saponins, sterols, triterpenoids, flavonoids, alkaloids, phenolic compounds, and tannins. TLC of sterol-rich petroleum ether extract (SRPE) produced six major spots on precoated silica gel GF254, using toluene: methanol (96:04 v/v) as mobile phase. The spots showed green, purple, light purple to violet colour spots in the Rf range of 0.2-0.91, after derivatization with the anisaldehyde-sulphuric acid reagent. Further, based on TLC, HR-MS analysis of SRPE was performed for the identification of phytoconstituents, at positive ESI (electron spray ionisation) mode. It indicated the presence of a total of 30 compounds including short fragments of peptides. The major compounds predicted in HR-MS: Q(quadrupole)-TOF(time-of-flight)-MS, as per METLIN database, were swietenine, ergosterol acetate, 4, 4, dimethyl-14α- formyl-5α-cholesta-8,24-dien-3β-ol, L-olivosyl-oleandolide, mitoxantrone, isogedunin, 3S-aminodeconoic acid, and nisoldipine

Understanding and Treating Acute Lung Injury: Exploring The Causes, How It Affects The Lungs, and Possible Medications

Acute lung injury is a life-threatening condition characterized by hypoxemia, pulmonary edema, and inflammation. This comprehensive review delves into the intricate landscape of Acute Lung Injury (ALI) and Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS), shedding light on the multifaceted challenges and advancements in their understanding and treatment. The exploration of pathological features, pharmacological interventions, and long-term outcomes unveils the complexities inherent in managing these critical respiratory conditions. The etiology of ALI/ARDS is diverse and includes direct and indirect insults to the lungs. Key findings underscore the hurdles posed by the heterogeneous patient population, emphasizing the imperative of tailoring interventions based on individual characteristics. Ambiguities surrounding optimal timing, dosing, and duration of pharmacological interventions highlight the need for standardized protocols to ensure consistency in treatment approaches. While advancements in mechanical ventilation, fluid management, and pharmacological agents show promise, the absence of reliable biomarkers for treatment response prediction remains a significant limitation. Recommendations for clinical practice encompass personalized and targeted approaches, leveraging technological advancements for individualized care, and advocating for standardized protocols. The pharmacology of ALI/ARDS is complex and challenging, as no specific drug has been proven to be effective in treating ALI. However, several pharmacological agents have been tested or are under investigation for modulating the inflammatory response, reducing oxidative stress, enhancing alveolar fluid clearance, and preventing fibrosis. On a policy level, there is a call for increased research initiatives, specifically in biomarker identification and large-scale trials for emerging treatments. Acknowledging limitations in the evolving nature of research and study heterogeneity, this review stands as a timely and informative resource, providing valuable insights for healthcare practitioners and policymakers navigating the intricate landscape of ALI and ARDS. Implementing the outlined recommendations holds the potential to enhance patient care and guide future research endeavors in this critical field