Research Article
The Effect of Pretreatment with Hydroalcoholic Extract of Cynodon dactylon on Spatial Learning, Memory, and Motor Balance in Rats
Issue:
Volume 10, Issue 3, June 2025
Pages:
49-57
Received:
25 May 2025
Accepted:
11 June 2025
Published:
21 July 2025
Abstract: Background: The incidence of Alzheimer’s disease is rising at an alarming rate, becoming a major social and healthcare concern in many countries. Pharmacological strategies for Alzheimer’s disease are categorized into three groups: (a) disease-modifying therapies, such as vitamin E and selegiline; (b) neurotransmitter-based therapies, including cholinesterase inhibitors; and (c) psychotropic agents aimed at managing behavioral symptoms. A key factor in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer’s disease is oxidative stress, defined by an imbalance between the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and the antioxidant defense system. Cynodon dactylon (commonly known as Bermuda grass), a member of the Poaceae family, has been investigated for its potential antioxidant properties. Emerging evidence suggests that its bioactive compounds may counteract oxidative stress, making it a promising candidate for further research into neuroprotective therapies. Methods: In this experimental study, the hydroalcoholic (ethanolic) extract of Cynodon dactylon was prepared using the maceration method and concentrated with a rotary evaporator. Extract doses of 50, 100, and 200 mg/kg were dissolved in saline for administration. The effects of the extract on spatial learning and memory were evaluated using the Morris water maze test, while passive avoidance learning and memory were assessed through the shuttle box test. Psychomotor coordination was examined using the rotarod test. Serum antioxidant capacity was measured by the ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) method via spectrophotometry, and serum malondialdehyde (MDA) levels were quantified using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Following the treatment period, the behavioral and biochemical assessments were conducted. Data were analyzed using SPSS and GraphPad Prism 6 software, with statistical significance set at p < 0.05. Results: Cynodon dactylon extract significantly improved memory retention and motor coordination. In the shuttle box test, doses of 100 and 200 mg/kg increased secondary delay time compared to control (P < 0.05, P < 0.01). In the rotarod test, motor balance and coordination were enhanced, especially at higher doses. Antioxidant assessments showed a dose-dependent increase in serum and brain FRAP values (P < 0.05 for 50 mg/kg; P < 0.01 for 100 and 200 mg/kg) and a significant reduction in MDA levels, indicating decreased oxidative stress. Conclusion: The extract's antioxidant compounds may reduce oxidative stress in the central nervous system, leading to better retention memory and motor coordination. Nonetheless, its negative effect on spatial memory suggests distinct underlying neural mechanisms. Further studies are needed to clarify these contrasting effects.
Abstract: Background: The incidence of Alzheimer’s disease is rising at an alarming rate, becoming a major social and healthcare concern in many countries. Pharmacological strategies for Alzheimer’s disease are categorized into three groups: (a) disease-modifying therapies, such as vitamin E and selegiline; (b) neurotransmitter-based therapies, including cho...
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Research Article
Ldh Ferritin & D-Dimer Levels as Predictor of Mortality in COVID-19 Patients
Abdul Sami*
,
Inayat Ali Khan,
Salva Hafeez Aghai,
Arsala Faridi,
Syed Naveed Mohsin
Issue:
Volume 10, Issue 3, June 2025
Pages:
58-63
Received:
20 May 2025
Accepted:
11 June 2025
Published:
28 August 2025
DOI:
10.11648/j.ajlm.20251003.12
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Views:
Abstract: This single-center observational study aimed to evaluate the accuracy of LDH, Ferritin, and D-Dimer levels as early predictors of mortality in COVID-19 patients. Conducted at Dr. Ziauddin Hospital, Karachi, from April to December 2020, the study included 532 hospitalized patients with confirmed COVID-19 diagnoses. Data were collected retrospectively following approval by the institutional ethics committee. Of the total patients, 408 (76.7%) with mild symptoms were admitted to the general ward, while 124 (23.3%) required intensive care. Among them, 150 patients (28.2%) died, and 382 (71.8%) were discharged home. Significant differences in biomarker levels were observed between survivors and non-survivors. The overall median (IQR) levels were LDH 434.00 (±328.75), Ferritin 765.50 (±1138.25), and D-Dimer 1564.00 (±5113.75). In discharged patients, median LDH was 389.00, Ferritin 622.50, and D-Dimer 1235.00, whereas in deceased patients, the corresponding values were 576.00, 1027.00, and 3885.50. Elevated LDH was found in 141 (94.0%, p=0.17), elevated Ferritin in 121 (80.7%, p=0.00), and elevated D-Dimer in 137 (91.3%, p=0.00). These findings suggest that elevated levels of LDH, Ferritin, and D-Dimer are significant indicators of disease severity and mortality in COVID-19 patients and should be monitored closely and managed proactively to reduce the risk of adverse outcomes.
Abstract: This single-center observational study aimed to evaluate the accuracy of LDH, Ferritin, and D-Dimer levels as early predictors of mortality in COVID-19 patients. Conducted at Dr. Ziauddin Hospital, Karachi, from April to December 2020, the study included 532 hospitalized patients with confirmed COVID-19 diagnoses. Data were collected retrospectivel...
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