Rhomboid Crystals Research Articles

Anatomical and phytochemical studies and ethnomedicinal uses of Colchicum autumnale L.

Background: In the world, great importance is attached to the intensification of plants. To date, most medicinal plants are only partially used. In case of Colchicum autumnale L. currently mainly the corms are used for the extraction of alkaloids. The purpose of this study was to investigate the intensification of the use of this perspective plant reported from the study area. This article examines the anatomy and phytochemistry of leaf and corm of C. autumnale, which is grown as a medicinal crop in Uzbekistan. Methods: The leaves were fixed in 70% ethanol according to the generally accepted method; transverse and paradermal sections were examined on the fixed material. When studying the anatomical features of the leaf, preparations was formed by manually cutting a transverse section of the leaf were observed by a MOTIC V1 microscope. The slides were stained with glycerin jelly having safranin. Cells and tissues were measured using a micrometer MOB-15. To determine the amount of alkaloids contained in the leaves and in corms, a chemical analysis was carried out in the laboratory of alkaloids of the Institute of Chemistry of Plant Substances. Results: On the transverse section of the stomata of the leaves of Colchicum autumnale anomocytic type, 2-3 rows of parenchyma and palisade cells, the characteristic size of the stomata. The root structure of C. autumnale consists of 4-5 rows of corolla, 4 protoxylems and 1 metaxylem, and the presence of rhomboid calcium oxalate crystals in its parenchyma is a characteristic feature of the species. As a result of studying the chemical composition of the plant in the conditions of the Tashkent region, it was observed that the amount of alkaloids in the aerial part of the colchicum, in the leaves was 0.4% and in the corm 0.14%. Conclusion: The current work sought to resolve taxonomic issues involving species that share the majority of their physical characteristics and to clarify relationships between important taxa by utilizing leaf epidermal characteristics. As a result of chemical analysis, it was revealed that the amount of alkaloids in the leaves of Colchicum autumnale, introduced in the conditions of the Tashkent region (Uzbekistan), is higher than in natural regions. This proves that in the conditions of Uzbekistan it is possible to grow Colchicum and obtain high-quality raw materials. Key words: autumn crocus, meadow saffron, anatomy, phytochemistry, ethnomedicine.

Management of temporomandibular joint diseases: a rare case report of coexisting calcium pyrophosphate crystal deposition and synovial chondromatosis

BackgroundThe coexistence of calcium pyrophosphate dihydrate crystal deposition (CPP) and synovial chondromatosis (SC) in the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is rarely reported. CPP disease (CPPD) is complex arthritis synonymous with excessive pyrophosphate production and variable aberrations in mineral and organic phase metabolism of the joint cartilage, leading to local inundated CPP and crystal deposition of partially deciphered predispositions. Meanwhile, SC is a rare benign synovial joint proliferative disease of unclear etiology and has a low risk of malignant transformation. However, SC manifests severe joint disability and dysfunction because of connective tissue metaplasia of the synovial membrane, which forms cartilaginous nodules with or without calcifications or ossifications. These nodules often detach and form intra-articular loose bodies and very rarely within extraarticular spaces.Case presentationWe report the case of a 61-year-old man to expand the body of literature on these unusual coexisting arthropathies of the TMJ. The patient presented to our hospital in 2020 with complaints of pain in the right TMJ and trismus for over 6 months. Radiographic assessments of the TMJ provided a preoperative provisional diagnosis of SC. However, the histopathology of the open biopsy revealed tumor-like lesions comprising several deposits of rhomboid and rod-shaped crystals that displayed positive birefringence in polarized light, confirming a coexistence of CPPD. A second-stage operation was performed for the complete removal of the loose bodies and chalk-like lesions including synovectomy. No evidence of recurrence was recorded after a follow-up of nearly 1.5 years.ConclusionsIsolated CPPD and SC of the TMJ are prevalent in the literature however, monoarticular coexistence of these diseases is rare, due to the lack of consistency in the diagnostic criteria in clinical practice. Moreover, optimal treatment depends on several considerations. This report delineated the molecular etiopathology and underscored the need for continued deciphering of the causal mechanisms of coexisting CPPD and SC of the TMJ. In addition, the importance of confirmatory testing for accurate diagnosis, and appropriate management of these diseases were discussed.

Windswept Deformity from pseudogout. A Diagnostic Challenge of an extreme presentation, a case report.

Background: Twenty percent of the population globally is affected by musculoskeletal conditions. These conditions significantly impair mobility and dexterity. Pseudogout is similarly a debilitating disease that significantly increases morbidity and the disability adjusted life years. We report a case of pseudogout in its advanced stage, causing total joint destruction of the knees and shoulders, which manifested and presented as a windswept deformity. The Case: Our patient is a 69 year old man who complained of bilateral knee pain, shoulder pain during active flexion and an obvious knee deformity. His familial history was not significant, and there was no history of injuries, infection or congenital diseases. His knees were severely deformed, with extremely laxed collateral ligaments. Both of his shoulders had a limited range of movement with coarse crepitation on passive movement. X-ray of his knees showed a completely destroyed joint, reduced joint space, subchondral cysts and chondrocalcinosis. X-ray of his shoulder joint showed a subluxated joint, subchondral cyst and subchondral sclerosis. His joint aspirate had positive rhomboid crystals on the birefringence test, consistent with pseudogout. Joint replacement surgery is the definitive management, but the patient and caretaker were not able to afford the implants. Conclusion: We discussed the diagnosis of pseudogout in this patient and how the policies in place do not provide adequate coverage for these populations. This marginalizes those who need surgery and limits their access to affordable surgical care when needed.

Pharmacognostical and Preliminary Phytochemical Evaluation of Atalantia monophylla DC. root and stem

Background: Atalantia monophylla DC. (Syn. Limonia monophylla L.), family Rutaceae, root and stem have been reported for their use in rheumatism, arthritis, antidote to snake-bite, cough, allergies, skin diseases and as an antidote to snake-bite through ethnomedicinal claims. Present study reports a details pharmacognostic and preliminary physiochemical and phytochemical aspects of A. monophylla root and stem. Material and methods: The root and stem samples were collected after proper authentication from Athagarh forest Odisha India. Macroscopic observations were made with naked eyes, microscopy, powder microscopy, physicochemical and qualitative analysis and HPTLC studies of root and stem were carried out following Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India recommended and others standard protocols. Results and Discussion: Root were 5-7cm in length; flattened, L-shaped, easily peel-able and thick, outer yellowish brown and inner yellow in colour with rootlets and scars. Stem cylindrical, striated, greenish brown in colour. Diagrammatic transverse section of root and stem shows circular in shape, outer cork, cortex followed by central stellar region and circular in nature, outer epidermis followed by hypodermis, cortex, vascular bundle and centrally located large pith respectively. Microscopic powder character of root and stem shows prismatic crystal, parenchyma cell with oil globule, simple starch grains, brown content and rhomboidal crystal, pitted parenchyma cells, brown content, oil globule, simple and compound starch grains respectively. Qualitative phytochemical analysis of root and stem shows the presence of carbohydrates, glycosides, saponins, alkaloids, tannins and flavonoids. HPTLC study of root and stem shows 22 and 25 spots at short (254nm) and 24 and 27 spots at long (366nm) ultraviolet respectively. Conclusion: The results obtained from pharmacognostical, phytochemical, physicochemical characteristic along with HPTLC studies are the diagnostic tool of A. monophylla plant and will help in standardization of its root and stem in terms of its quality, strength, purity.

Pharmacognostical, Phytochemical and HPTLC Profile of Vayasthapana Gana Choorna and Vayasthapana Ghrita- A Poly-Herbal Compound

Menopausal syndrome is a grouping of signs and symptoms associated with menopause. In Ayurveda, menopause is referred to as 'Rajonivrutti' (and menopausal syndrome as Rajonivruttianubandhaja vyadhies). Menopause's long-term risks include osteoporosis, cardiac problems, and Alzheimer's disease. Aims and objective: To study the Pharmacognostic, Phytochemical and HPTLC of Vayasthapana Gana Choorna and Vayasthapana Ghrita. Material and methods: Pharmacognostic, phytochemical and HPTLC of Vayasthapana Gana Choorna and Vayasthapana Ghrita have been carried out as per standard protocol. Result: Vayasthapana Gana Choorna showed the presence of mesocarp, asicular crystals, stone cells, scleroids, brown content, starch grains, colencyma cells, rhomboidal crystals, pitted vessels, parenchyma cells, simple trichome. Phytochemical parameters showed refractive index 1.3660, specific gravity 0.913, acid value 1.285, iodine value 212.1085 and in HPTLC, Methanol extract of Vayasthapana Ghrita at 254nm showed 6 spots and at 366nm 2 spots whereas in methanol extract of Vayasthapana Gana Choorna at 254nm 5 spots and in 366nm 4 spots were present. Conclusion: The applied pharmacognostic and HPTLC method has been shown to be selective, linear, precise and accurate. The method will be useful for quality control of the raw material and pharmaceutical preparations.

Dosage form Development of Nagabala- Arjunadi Yoga and Chromatographic Analysis Using HPTLC

Nagabala -Arjunadi Yoga, is the combination of Nagabala and Arjuna Churna mentioned in Chakradatta, Hridroga Chikitsa, is prepared by giving Bhavana of Rasonadi Kwatha. Hridroga (cardiovascular disorders) are the most common health concern of the present era. It is the leading cause of death worldwide. Ancient Samhitas contain many formulations in the context of Hridroga, whose applicability is unexplored. Churna and Kwatha are the main dosage forms used in clinical practice. But compared to Churna and Kwatha, tablets are more patient compatible in terms of palatability and possess increased shelf life. Hence, Nagabala-Arjunadi Yoga, a tablet dosage form is developed using Nagabala- Arjuna Churna and Rasonadi Kwatha. No scientific evaluation data for this drug is available to date. The present study was done to evaluate the pharmacognostical and pharmaceutical profile of Nagabala-Arjunadi Yoga. The microscopic examination of the Nagabala- Arjunadi Yoga showed the presence of rosette crystals, rhomboidal crystals, simple fibres, oil globules and stones cells. The physicochemical analysis showed that pH value, hardness, loss on drying, ash value, water extractive value and methanol extractive value was 5.8, 3.5kg/cm2, 7.949%, 3.03%, 17.43%, 16.14% respectively. The HPTLC densitograms at UV 254 nm and UV 366nm using Toluene and Ethyl acetate in the ratio 9:1 showed maximum peak height in 3rd peak corresponding to the Rf value 0.18 and 0.17 respectively. The finding observed in the present study can be used as reference for future quality control.

Authentication of Harpullia arborea (Blanco) Radlk. - a traditional medicinal plant from India using microscopic techniques

Harpullia arborea (Blanco) Radlk., Sapindaceae, known as “black doll’s eyes” or “tulip tree” is a rainforest tree distributed in the tropical forests of peninsular India. Out of the 26 species of the genus, H. arborea is therapeutically more studied and widely used in folk and ayurvedic medicine. In this work, anatomical study of the leaves and stem of H. arborea was performed to provide a microscopical diagnosis for its characterization due to its increasing use in folk and ayurvedic medicine and its differentiation from other species with the same popular name. Standard light and scanning electron microscopy procedures were carried out using paradermal sections of leaf surfaces and transverse sections of lamina, midrib, and petiole. Stem preparations include longitudinal, radial and transverse sections of tertiary branches. The leaf epidermis with stellate non-glandular trichomes, cyclocytic stomata, mucilaginous cells and mesophyll without secretory sclereids, and the stem with confluent axial parenchyma, biseriate xylem rays, and the presence of rhomboidal prismatic crystals in the axial cells are the diagnostic microscopic features of the species. This structural characterization of the stem and leaf allows the identification of H.arborea, allowing certification of the authenticity of raw material.

Two new species of Phylloporia (Hymenochaetales) from the Neotropics.

Two new species of Phylloporia, P.crystallina and P.sumacoensis, are described based on 28S ribosomal RNA phylogeny, morphology, host, and geographic distribution. Phylloporiacrystallina is characterized by pileate, perennial basidiomata with a duplex context, small pores 9-10 per mm, a monomitic hyphal system, absence of cystidia and cystidioles, presence of large rhomboid crystals in tube trama, broadly ellipsoid to subglobose basidiospores measuring 2.8-3 × 2-2.3 μm, and growth on angiosperm stump. Phylloporiasumacoensis is characterized by pileate, perennial basidiomata with a duplex context, very small pores 10-12 per mm, a monomitic hyphal system, hyphae at dissepiment edges bearing fine crystals, presence of cystidioles, broadly ellipsoid to subglobose basidiospores measuring 3-3.7 × 2.1-2.8 μm, and growth on living liana.

DNA bar-coding, pharmacognostical, and phytochemical analysis of Atalantia monophylla DC. leaves

BACKGROUND: Leaves of Atalantia monophylla DC. (Syn. Limonia monophylla L.), family Rutaceae, are traditionally used to treat rheumatoid pain, hemiplegia, itch and cutaneous complaints, cough, and as an antidote to snake bite, etc. The present study reports the detailed morphology, anatomy, genetic barcoding, physiochemical, and phytochemical aspects of A. monophylla leaves. METHODS: The sample of leaves of the plant were collected from one of its natural habitat, Athagarh forest, Odisha, India. The detailed macroscopic observations were made with naked eyes, and microscopy characters of leaf, stomatal index, and powder microscopy were done as per standard protocol. Physicochemical and qualitative preliminary phytochemical analysis, high-performance thin layer chromatography (HPTLC), and DNA bar-coding studies were carried out as per Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India methods and other standard guidelines. RESULTS: Leaves were opposite, unifoliate, ovate-elliptic, entire, emarginate, and glabrous. Transverse section (TS) through petiole showed epidermis, cortex, pericyclic fibers, and vascular bundles along with trichome. TS of lamina passing through midrib shows lamina with upper and lower epidermis, lignified elements, interrupted by stomata and unicellular trichome. Microscopic characteristics of the leaves powder show the presence of oil globule, rhomboidal crystal, prismatic crystal, and fragment of paracytic stomata. The result of loss on drying, total ash, acid-insoluble ash, water, methanol-soluble extractive, and the obtained pH values were about 10.47 ± 0.40%, 6.94 ± 0.95%, 1.00 ± 0.00%, 30.41 ± 2.26%, 7.64 ± 0.56%, and 6.6, respectively. Qualitative phytochemical analysis shows the presence of carbohydrates, glycosides, saponins, alkaloids, tannins, and flavonoids and the HPTLC study revealed 29 spots at both short (254 nm) and long (366 nm) ultraviolet rays. CONCLUSION: Epidermal cells, oil globule, rhomboidal crystal, prismatic crystal, paracytic stomata, and simple unicellular trichome are key characters for identification of its leaves. The results obtained from pharmacognostical, phytochemical, physicochemical, and DNA bar-coding studies may serve as the diagnostic tool of A. monophylla toward its authentication and identification and also in maintaining of quality, strength, purity, and efficacy of the leaves.

Pharmacognostical and Physicochemical Evaluation on Vata (Ficus benghalensis linn.) Jata (Aerial Roots)

Introduction: Vata (Ficus benghalensis Linn.) is a sacred medicinal plant since Vedic times. It spread all over by its hanging or supporting roots, hence called as Vata. Aims: The aim was to study the macro- and microscopic characters, physiochemical and high-performance thin-layer chromatography (HPTLC) profile of Vata (F. benghalensis Linn.) Jata (aerial roots). Materials and Methods: Experiments were performed on authenticated plant materials, following standard procedures. Macroscopic and microscopic pharmacognostical characters of aerial roots and histochemical studies were noted. Results: Externally, the aerial root is gray and rough along with transverse rows of lenticels. Inner part of the aerial root is reddishbrown fibrous nature in bark portion. The powder microscopy study revealed the presence of fragment of simple fiber without lumen, stone cells with tannin, simple starch grain with hilum, compound starch grain, fiber with denim contents, latex contents, tannin contents rhomboidal crystal 2, rhomboidal crystal 3, group of stone cell with tannin, and fiber passing through medullary rays. Discussion: Transverse section of aerial root showed outer interesting exodermis followed by cork and cortex. Cortex region abundantly enriched by calcium oxalate crystal and tannin content are the diagnostic characters. Conclusion: Results of pharmacognostical and physiochemical analysis including HPTLC on aerial roots will help in further standardization.

Pharmacognostical evaluation and anti-convulsant property of Annona reticulata Linn. (Annonaceae) root

BackgroundThe present investigation was aimed at establishing the pharmacognostical parameters and preliminary phytochemical screening of Annona reticulata Linn. (Annonaceae) root. Pharmacognostical studies and phytochemical evaluation of A. reticulata root were carried out by following standard procedures to provide information that help to identify the species. The species of Annonaceae family are documented to possess anticonvulsant property, while A. reticulata and its root are reported to be used as a folklore medicine to treat epilepsy. In this study, anti-convulsant activity of the root extract was further investigated in mouse model with seizures induced by pentylenetetrazole (PTZ; 60 mg/kg, i.p.). Diazepam (5 mg/kg) was used as a standard anti-convulsant drug. Prior to induction of seizures, ethanol extract (100, 200, and 400 mg/kg, p.o.,) and 0.1% sodium CMC were administered. Later, the onset, duration of convulsions along with recovery was recorded.ResultsA. reticulata can be recognized by its crown shape, leaves with lengthy petioles, fleshy petals and heart-shaped fruits. Roots are cylindrical with rootlets and have aromatic odour. Presence of oil globules and rhomboidal calcium oxalate crystals in cortex, sclerenchyma cells in cortex and secondary phloem, starch grains in cortex, secondary phloem and secondary xylem, and uni- to tri-seriate medullary rays are the key diagnostic characters of root. Preliminary phytochemical screening of extracts revealed the presence of phenolic compounds, tannins, alkaloids, carbohydrates, flavonoids, glycosides, saponins, proteins, fixed oil and fats. The total alkaloid content in the root was 0.524% w/w, while total flavonoid and total phenolic content in ethanol extract were 16.65 mg QE/g and 59.54 mg GAE/g, respectively. Based on the values obtained from anti-convulsant activity, it is evident that the ethanol extract offered significant protection against PTZ-induced convulsion in mice.ConclusionThe current pharmacognostical study aids not only in identification of crude drug material but also in establishing the standardization parameters. Further, the findings of this study indicated that the ethanolic extract of Annona reticulata Linn root displayed significant anti-convulsant property and this property could be attributed to imperative bioactives like flavonoids, phenolic compounds, alkaloids, in addition to other secondary metabolites.

Ultrasound biomicroscopy findings and histopathological characteristics of anterior chamber cholesterolosis

Anterior chamber cholesterolosis is an unusual finding, commonly caused by ocular trauma. Pathogenesis is still unknown; therefore, cases should be reported to determine correlations between past medical history and suggest probable etiologies. A 27-year-old male presented with normal vision in the right eye and no light perception in the left after suffering blunt ocular trauma. Ocular examination showed freely movable, highly refractile crystals forming a pseudohypopyon in the anterior chamber. B-scan ultrasonography revealed close funnel retinal detachment, ultrasound biomicroscopy showed cholesterol crystals in the anterior chamber and irideocorneal angle. Anterior chamber washout was performed, and aspirate indicated rhomboidal cholesterol crystals.

Pharmacognostic and Analytical Profile of Leaves of Erythroxylum Moonii Hochr. – An Ethno-Medicinal Plant

Erythroxylum moonii Hochr. is a shrub or small tree in family Erythroxylaceae and folklore claims report the use of its leaves in the treatment of helminthiasis. Aim: Hence, present study aims to evaluate the pharmacognostic and analytical characters including HPTLC of its leaves. Methods: E. moonii fresh and powdered leaves were explored for the macroscopic and microscopic features along with their physico-chemical, phytochemical properties and HPTLC following standard procedures. Results: The leaf of E. moonii is simple, alternate, petiolate, stipulate, elliptic and lanceolate with obtusely caudate-acuminate apex, acute base and entire margins. Fresh leaf is light green, slight astringent with characteristic odour and smooth texture. Powdered dry leaves were light green, slight astringent with aromatic odour and coarse, fibrous texture. Microscopic evaluation revealed the presence of simple, bilobed and stellate trichomes (with and without lignification), rosette, rhomboidal, prismatic and cluster crystals, paracytic stomata and starch grains as key characteristics both in fresh leaves and powdered leaves. Obtained values for loss on drying, total ash, acid insoluble ash, pH, water and methanol soluble extractive were 10.44±0.31%, 2.2±0.67%, 0.93±0.06%, 5, 7.63±0.57% and 6.44±0.38% respectively. Qualitative phytochemical analysis suggested the presence of carbohydrates, steroids, glycosides, saponins, alkaloids, tannins and flavonoids in the test sample. HPTLC study revealed 17 and 11 peaks at short (254nm) and long (366nm) ultraviolet consecutively. Conclusion: Obtained results can be used to establish pharmacognostic and analytical standards of leaves of E. moonii which can serve as an important source to determine the quality, purity and strength of the powdered drug.

Microscopic and Phytochemical analysis of Desmodium velutinum (Willd) DC and Desmodium gangeticum (L.) DC. Panchanga powder

Background: Desmodium velutinum (Fabaceae) is one of the wild edible plants used traditionally to treat diarrhoea, haematuria, infertility and also externally used to treat scorpion bites. Though various parts of the plant have been used for therapeutic purpose, panchanga of the plant has not been studied for its Pharmacognostical and phytochemical characteristics in detail, following scientific parameters. Hence in the present study Desmodium velutinum whole plant has been studied for its pharmacognostical and phytochemical characters and compared with commonly used species Desmodium gangeticum. Methods: Whole plant of Desmodim velutinum was collected from Paikmal, Odisha and Desmodium gangeticum was collected from Junagarh, Gujarat in the month of November 2019 following good collection practices and shade dried. Pharmacognostical study and analytical study were performed following standard pharmacopoeial procedures. Results: Whole plant (Panchanga) of former is sweetish and latter is bitter. Powder microscopy of Desmodium gangeticum showed presence of rhomboidal crystals and lignified annular and spiral vessels. Desmodium velutinum showed presence of prismatic crystals and lignified pitted vessels. Physico-chemical analysis showed higher loss on drying in Desmodium gangeticum, and higher water soluble extractive values of Desmodium velutinum. Phytochemical estimation showed the presence of Proteins, tannins, and carbohydrates in both samples. HPTLC study showed similar Rf value 0.82 and 0.94 at 254 and 0.03 and 0.41 at 366nm. Conclusion: Basing upon the analytical and microscopic similarities Desmodium velutinum may be considered as substitute of Desmodium gangeticum

A new Oligocene-Miocene tree from Panama and historical Anacardium migration patterns.

Migration of Boreotropical megathermal taxa during the Oligocene and Miocene played a key role in assembling diversity in tropical regions. Despite scattered fossil reports, the cashew genus Anacardium offers an excellent example of such migration. The fossil woods described here come from localities in Veraguas, Panama mapped as Oligocene-Miocene. We studied, described, and identified two well-preserved specimens using wood anatomical characteristics and completed extensive comparisons between fossil and extant material. The studied fossil woods share several diagnostic features with the modern Anacardium genus, including large solitary vessels, large intervessel-pitting, a simple vessel-ray pitting pattern, and mostly 1–3 seriate rays with large rhomboidal solitary crystals. We propose a new fossil species named Anacardium gassonii sp. nov., that adds an essential piece to the understanding of the historical biogeography of the genus. In addition, our findings confirm previous interpretations of this species’ migration from Europe to North America and its crossing through Panama, leading to subsequent diversification in South America. This discovery provides an important link to the historical migration patterns of the genus, supporting the notion of an Eocene migration to the Neotropics via Boreotropical bridges, as well as an Oligocene-Miocene crossing of Central America followed by diversification in South America.

A Case of Fatal Intestinal Infarct Preceded by Recurrent Ischaemic Colitis due to the Enterotoxic Effect of Sodium Polystyrene Sulfonate.

A 64-year-old patient with chronic renal failure and persistent hyperkalaemia not corrected by dialysis, was prescribed sodium polystyrene sulfonate (SPS) at a low dose (30 g/day for 2 days a week during the long interdialytic interval). After 3 months of therapy, the patient developed intense abdominal pain with non-specific colitis identified with a colonoscopy. In addition, the biopsy specimens showed rhomboid SPS crystals in the intestinal mucosa. Fourteen months after discontinuing therapy, the patient again presented with colitis and persistent biopsy finding of SPS crystals. The patient died a few months later due to intestinal infarction. SPS is a cation exchange resin used to treat hyperkalaemia resistant to dialysis, but may cause inflammation and ischaemia of the colon. In our patient, a short 3-month course of low-dose SPS therapy (without sorbitol, which is used to counter iatrogenic constipation caused by SPS) induced relapsing colitis, which was followed by massive intestinal infarction a few months later. In light of frequent reports of its enterotoxic effects, SPS should be replaced with the new potassium chelators (patiromer and sodium zirconium cyclosilicate). Sodium polystyrene sulfonate can cause life-threatening colitis.Alternatives medications should be used for the long-term reduction of potassium levels.

АНАТОМО-ДИАГНОСТИЧЕСКИЕ ПРИЗНАКИ ЛИСТЬЕВ ЛИМОНА (CITRUS LIMON (L.) BURM. F.)

The article summarizes the results of studying the anatomical structure of the leaves of a medicinal lemon plant (Citrus limon (L.) Burm. f.) from the Rutaceae family, which is used in the pharmaceutical industry to produce valuable lemon essential oil with antibacterial and antioxidant properties. There is no complete information about the anatomical structure of lemon leaves in the literature, which makes it challenging to conduct microdiagnosis of medicinal raw materials. Therefore, the study of the anatomical features of lemon leaves is relevant. The researchers took the medicinal plant material of the fresh leaves of Citrus limon from the greenhouse of the Botanical Garden named after S.I. Rostovtsev. They carried out anatomical analysis of raw materials and histochemical reactions according to the regulatory documentation of the State Pharmacopoeia of the Russian Federation. The microscopic structure showed that the leaves of Citrus limon are dorsoventral, the leaf blade is hypostomatic. The stomatal apparatus of the leaves is anomocytic. In the leaf, endogenous secretory structures were observed, represented by round-shaped lysigenic essential oil receptacles formed in the columnar and spongy mesophyll of the leaf and the main petiole parenchyma. The essential oil was synthesized in the secretory cells of the receptacle, which eventually underwent autolysis and released contents into the resulting cavity. A collateral conductive bundle with a ring-shaped cross-section represents the central vein of the leaf blade and leaf petiole. The characteristic marker features of the leaf also include the presence of single rhomboid crystals and drusen calcium oxalate in the leaf petiole mesophyll and parenchyma. As a result of the studies, significant anatomical and diagnostic signs of Citrus limon leaves were found, which can be used in writing pharmacopeia articles.

Cervical myelopathy due to subaxial calcium pyrophosphate dihydrate (CPPD) deposition with simultaneous asymptomatic crowned dens syndrome: two case reports

BackgroundThere are few reports of cervical myelopathy caused by an attack of subaxial calcium pyrophosphate dihydrate (CPPD) deposition. Moreover, there has been no report on cervical myelopathy by subaxial CPPD deposition with simultaneous asymptomatic crowned dens syndrome (CDS) at the same time.Case presentationThe first case was a 68-year-old male complaining of cervical myelopathic symptoms. Plain radiographs, computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings revealed spinal cord compression by calcified round lesions at C4 as well as a calcified lesion behind the dens. The second case was a 77-year-old female complaining of cervical myelopathic symptoms. Plain radiographs, CT and MRI findings revealed spinal cord compression by calcified round lesions at C3 and C4 as well as a calcified lesion behind the dens. In both cases, we believed that the calcified lesion behind the dens was an asymptomatic lesion. Therefore, the first patient received decompressive laminectomy of C3 and C4, removal of calcified round lesions, and posterior fixation from C3 to C5 due to associated kyphosis. The second patient underwent decompressive laminectomy of C3 and C4 and removal of calcified round lesions. Microscopic examination under polarized light showed dark blue calcifications with rhomboid crystals that were positively birefringent. The findings were consistent with those of CPPD.ConclusionsThis is the first study to report cervical myelopathy caused by subaxial CPPD deposition with simultaneous asymptomatic CDS. Surgical removal of the subaxial CPPD deposition alone achieved a satisfactory surgical outcome without recurrence.

Comparative micromorphology and anatomy of seeds and endocarps of selected Primulaceae and their systematic implications

Seed and endocarp micromorphology and anatomy of 16 taxa from the genera Ardisia, Geissanthus, Stylogyne, Myrsine (Myrsinoideae), and Jacquinia (Theophrastoideae) were examined using stereo- and scanning electron microscopy and discussed in the light of the current phylogenetic framework. In all species, the ornamentation of the seed surface was reticulate, tuberculate, or tuberculate-colliculate with several differences concerning the cell outline and anticlinal cell wall boundaries. For seeds of almost all Myrsinoideae species, one-layered seed coat devoid of rhomboid or prismatic crystals was characteristic, while seeds of J. armillaris had a two-layered seed coat with prismatic crystals. The one-layered seed coat in Myrsinoideae may be considered a synapomorphy of this subfamily. The endosperm tissue in seeds of Myrsinoideae was differentiated into two types. Seeds of Ardisia and Geissanthus species were characterized by ‘pitted’ endosperm, while in seeds of Myrsine species both the ‘pitted’ endosperm and endosperm with evenly thickened cell walls were present. In seeds of Theophrastoideae, the endosperm was ‘pitted.’ Our results confirmed that the concave hilum area is characteristic of subglobose seeds of Myrsinoideae. The ruminate endosperm was present in all the examined Myrsine species, but it was absent in Ardisia crenata, Geissanthus ambiguus, and Stylogyne pauciflora seeds. Thus, the ruminate endosperm is not the feature clearly distinguishing the seeds of Myrsinoideae and Theophrastoideae. Endocarps of Myrsinoideae vary in terms of their morphology and anatomy. The variation within the primary and secondary sculpture of their inner surface and the presence of stomata in endocarps of particular species may have systematic implications.

Comparative pharmacognosy and phytochemical evaluation of leaf, root and stem of Psoralea corylifolia Linn. (Bakuchi).

Background:Psoralea corylifolia Linn. (P. Corylifolia L.), frequently familiar as Bakuchi in Samskrit, is an endangered and medicinally important plant. Its medicinal usage is reported in Indian pharmaceutical codex, the Chinese, British and the American Pharmacopoeia, and in different traditional systems of medicines such as Ayurveda, Unani and Siddha. However, no scientifically pharmacognosy study has been reported on leaf, root, and stem part of P. Corylifolia L. Classics emphasized the use of leaf, root and stem of P. Corylifolia L. for on the management of dental carries, diarrhea, dysentery, etc., in the form of local application as well as internal administration.Aim:The aim of this study was to evaluate comparative pharmacognosy, phytochemical studies, and physicochemical analysis of leaf, root and stem of P. Corylifolia L.Materials and methods:Studies of leaf, root, stem, and their powder for phytochemical tests, histochemical tests, psoralen chemical test, and physicochemical analysis were performed by standard methods.Result:All the different parts of the plant exhibit oleoresin and other cellular contents, i.e., vessels fibers, lignified pitted vessels, etc., in pharmacognosy studies. In phytochemical study; observations indicate that coumarins, steroids, and flavonoids are present in leaf, stem, and root samples. Basified alcoholic extracts of powders of all test samples showed yellowish color of fluorescence at 366 nm whereas none of the samples showed any color at 254 nm during chemical test of psoralen.Conclusion:Pharmacognostical study on leaf, root and stem of Bakuchi (P. corylifolia L.) contributed Certain pharmacognostical parameters i.e; oleoresin, vascular bundles, parenchyma cells with rhomboidal crystals, pericyclic fibres etc parameters that will be applicable for authentication and identification of the parts of drug. There is a need to focus on the preliminary throughput phytochemical screening of plants for their probable use in therapeutics. As no published evidences are developed on comparative pharmacognosy and preliminary physicochemical analysis of leaf, root and stem of P. corylifolia L. plant, the results documented in the present study may be used as a standard in subsequent studies. These observations can be of use for further research studies.