Screening of select ornamental flowers of the family Apocynaceae for phytochemical constituents

ObjectiveTo examine the phyto-constituents present in some ornamental flowers of the family Apocynaceae.MethodsAqueous, acetone, petroleum ether, chloroform and ethanol extracts of the flowers were prepared by adding 50 g of fresh fallen flowers of the family Apocynaceae (Allamanda cathartica Linn., Allamanda violacea Gardn. & Fielding, Wrightia tinctoria (Roxb) R.Br. and Nerium oleander Linn.) to 200 ml of these solvents; the constituents were shaken at room temperature for 24 h. After incubation, the extracts were filtered by using Whatman No.1 filter paper, collected and stored at 4°C. The extracts were concentrated by using vacuum evaporator and dried at 60°C. Preliminary phytochemical screening was performed by the Harborne method.ResultsDifferent phyto-constituents such as alkaloids, phenolic compounds, flavonoids, saponins, glycosides, terpenoids, steroids, coumarins, quinones, phytosterols, proteins and carbohydrates were identified in the extracts. The presence or absence of the phyto-constituents depended upon the solvent medium used for extraction and the physiological property of the flowers.ConclusionsThe findings of this study reveal that even ornamental flowers have potential antimicrobial compounds that may be of great use for developing plant-based drugs.     

Comparative Evaluation of Marginal Accuracy of a Cast Fixed Partial Denture Compared to Soldered Fixed Partial Denture Made of Two Different Base Metal Alloys and Casting Techniques: An In vitro Study

The periodontal health of abutment teeth and the durability of fixed partial denture depends on the marginal adaptation of the prosthesis. Any discrepancy in the marginal area leads to dissolution of luting agent and plaque accumulation. This study was done with the aim of evaluating the accuracy of marginal fit of four unit crown and bridge made up of Ni–Cr and Cr–Co alloys under induction and centrifugal casting. They were compared to cast fixed partial denture (FPD) and soldered FPD. For the purpose of this study a metal model was fabricated. A total of 40 samples (4-unit crown and bridge) were prepared in which 20 Cr–Co samples and 20 Ni–Cr samples were fabricated. Within these 20 samples of each group 10 samples were prepared by induction casting technique and other 10 samples with centrifugal casting technique. The cast FPD samples obtained were seated on the model and the samples were then measured with travelling microscope having precision of 0.001 cm. Sectioning of samples was done between the two pontics and measurements were made, then the soldering was made with torch soldering unit. The marginal discrepancy of soldered samples was measured and all findings were statistically analysed. The results revealed minimal marginal discrepancy with Cr–Co samples when compared to Ni–Cr samples done under induction casting technique. When compared to cast FPD samples, the soldered group showed reduced marginal discrepancy.     

Endoscopic Therapy for Peptic Ulcer Hemorrhage: Practice Variations in a Multi-Center U.S. Consortium

Background  

Peptic ulcer disease is a common cause of acute upper gastrointestinal hemorrhage. The aim of this study was to describe the endoscopic management of bleeding peptic ulcers in a large, U.S. multi-center endoscopic consortium with diverse practice settings.     

Function Versus Position: A Randomized Controlled Trial of Interfocal Kirschner Wiring of Unstable Distal Radial Fractures

Abstract Introduction: A randomized, prospective study has been carried out to determine if immobilisation in dorsiflexion following K-wire fixation of unstable distal radial fractures improves functional outcome. Methods: Sixty patients with unstable fractures of the distal radius were entered into the trial. There were 52 female and 11 male with an average age of 60yrs (17-84). Randomisation was undertaken in theatre using a closed envelope system. The fractures were initially reduced by closed manipulation and interfocal percutaneous K-wires inserted. Patients randomised to group I had their wrists placed in 30 degrees of dorsiflexion and group II had their wrists placed in 30 degrees of palmer flexion. Patients were reviewed with an x-ray at 1, 3, 5, and 17 weeks by a single physician. Dorsal angulation, Radial inclination, Radial length and Radial height were measured. The K-wires were removed in the outpatient clinic at 3 weeks and the plaster at 5 weeks. Blinded functional review was carried out by an Occupational therapist at 5, 8 and 17 weeks post operation. The power and pinch grip was measured using a Jamar dynamometer. Flexion and extension were measured with a goniometer. Results: There was no statistical difference in radiological or functional outcomes in either group. At 17 weeks the mean dorsal angulation was -0.5 and -1.9 degrees. The mean radial shortening was 1.5mm in both groups. The power grip was 86% and 82% and pinch grip was 99% and 101%. Patients regained 76% and 79% of flexion and 94% and 88% of extension compared to the opposite side. Conclusions: Immobilisation in dorsi-flexion following K-wiring for unstable distal radial fractures does not improve functional outcome. The overall functional results were excellent and we believe that Kwiring still as a place in the treatment of distal radial fractures in the previously defined population.