Effect of Caraway Seed Extract on the Blood Biochemistry and Antioxidant Capacity among the Hyperoxidative Stress-Induced Rats.

Carum carvi (Carium) or caraway is traditionally used for the treatment of several metabolic and non-metabolic disorders. In the current study, extracted oil, flavonoids, and alkaloids from the Carium were used to evaluate the effects of these components on blood lipid profile and heart regeneration from oxidative damages caused by hydrogen peroxide consumption. A total of 50 male BALB/c mice were used in this study with a body weight of 23-32 g. The animals were randomly divided into 5 groups (n=10). Group 1: The animals in this group were considered the control group and fed with a normal diet. Group 2: Hyperoxidative stress was induced in this group by giving hydrogen peroxide at a concentration of 1% into the drinking water for 6 weeks. After this period, they did not receive any treatments and only received saline solution by intraperitoneal (IP) injection once a day for 4 weeks. Group 3: Hyperoxidative stress was induced by hydrogen peroxide at a concentration of 1% for 6 weeks. All the animals in this group received 1.25 mg/kg body weight (B.W.) extracted oil from Caraway seeds for 4 weeks by IP injection once a day each week. Group 4: Hyperoxidative stress was induced by hydrogen peroxide at a concentration of 1% for 6 weeks. All the animals in this group received 61.28 mg/kg B.W. extracted flavonoids from Caraway seeds for 4 weeks by IP injection once a day each week. Group 5: Hyperoxidative stress was induced by hydrogen peroxide at a concentration of 1% for 6 weeks. All the animals in this group received 7.8 mg/kg B.W. extracted alkaloids from Caraway seeds for 4 weeks by IP injection once a day each week. The levels of glutathione and malondialdehyde were estimated in the liver and kidneys in the animals with cardiovascular disorders induced by hydrogen peroxide at a concentration of 1%. The results of the current study showed that the alkaloids had the greatest effect in reducing harmful total cholesterol and a complete recovery of the heart and aorta from atherosclerotic lesions through viewing the tissue sections.

Ultrastructural differentiation of sperm tail region in Diplometopon zarudnyi (an amphisbaenian reptile).

Diplometopon zarudnyi, a worm lizard belongs to amphisbaenia under trogonophidae family. This species exists in limited areas of the Arabian Peninsula and is an oscillating digger found in sub-surface soils. The present study aimed to investigate the sperm tail differentiation in D. zarudnyi. Ten male adults of D. zarudnyi were collected from Riyadh during April-May 2011. To study the sperm tail at the ultrastructural level the testes were fixed in 3% glutaraldehyde, than post fixed in 1% osmium tetaroxide followed by dehydration in ethanol grades; samples were cleared in propylene oxide and embedded in resin. Tail formation begins by the moving of centrioles and mitochondria towards the posterior pole of sperm head. Simultaneously many microtubules of the midpiece axoneme were enclosed by a thick layer of granular material. Mitochondria of midpiece lie alongside the proximal centriole which forms a very short neck region and possess tubular cristae internally and concentric layers of cristae superficially. During this course a fibrous sheath surrounds the axoneme of mid and principal piece. At the end dissolution of longitudinal manchette takes place. The mitochondria then rearrange themselves around the proximal and distal centrioles to form a neck region. Later, the fibrous sheath surrounds the proximal portion of the flagella. This part along with sperm head of D. zarudnyi provides a classical model that could be used in future for evolutionary and phylogenetic purposes of class reptilia.

Reproductive biology of the horned viper, Cerastes cerastes gasperettii in the central region of Saudi Arabia.

The reproductive biology of the horned viper, Cerastes cerastes gasperettii, in Riyadh region of Saudi Arabia was investigated over a period of one year. Study of reproductive cycle of male and female C. c. gasperettii revealed that the breeding season is relatively short (April and May). Thereafter females laid eggs by mid of July and hatching probably had taken place by the end of September. No activity was observed during winter, this may indicate just a single clutch per year. Relative testis weight to body weight was drastically increased ([Formula: see text] = 0.88%) during the peak of reproductive activity (May) where maximal expansion of seminiferous tubules was also attained during April and May ([Formula: see text] = 209 µm and 191 µm, respectively). Likewise, the ovarian activity was the highest during May where ovarian parameters were greater in terms of relative ovarian weight to body weight and ova diameter being 0.46% and 2.29 mm, respectively. Fat body weight was increased drastically just before the peak of reproductive activity then started to decline during June. It could be concluded that the harsh desert conditions and similar environments certainly affect reproductive activity of Saudi Arabian reptiles including snakes.

Limited efficiency of universal mini-barcode primers for DNA amplification from desert reptiles, birds and mammals.

In recent years, DNA barcoding has emerged as a powerful tool for species identification. We report an extended validation of a universal DNA mini-barcode for amplification of 130-bp COI segments from 23 specimens collected from a desert environment, including 11 reptiles, five mammals and seven birds. Besides the standard double-annealing protocol, we also tested a more stringent single-annealing protocol. The PCR success rate for the amplification of the mini-barcode region was: mammals (4/5), reptiles (5/11) and birds (4/7). These findings demonstrate the limited utility of universal primers for mini-barcoding, at least for these vertebrate taxa that we collected from the Saudi Arabian desert.

Application of RAPD for molecular characterization of plant species of medicinal value from an arid environment.

The use of highly discriminatory methods for the identification and characterization of genotypes is essential for plant protection and appropriate use. We utilized the RAPD method for the genetic fingerprinting of 11 plant species of desert origin (seven with known medicinal value). Andrachne telephioides, Zilla spinosa, Caylusea hexagyna, Achillea fragrantissima, Lycium shawii, Moricandia sinaica, Rumex vesicarius, Bassia eriophora, Zygophyllum propinquum subsp migahidii, Withania somnifera, and Sonchus oleraceus were collected from various areas of Saudi Arabia. The five primers used were able to amplify the DNA from all the plant species. The amplified products of the RAPD profiles ranged from 307 to 1772 bp. A total of 164 bands were observed for 11 plant species, using five primers. The number of well-defined and major bands for a single plant species for a single primer ranged from 1 to 10. The highest pair-wise similarities (0.32) were observed between A. fragrantissima and L. shawii, when five primers were combined. The lowest similarities (0) were observed between A. telephioides and Z. spinosa; Z. spinosa and B. eriophora; B. eriophora and Z. propinquum. In conclusion, the RAPD method successfully discriminates among all the plant species, therefore providing an easy and rapid tool for identification, conservation and sustainable use of these plants.

Interpretation of electrophoretograms of seven microsatellite loci to determine the genetic diversity of the Arabian Oryx.

Microsatellite markers are commonly used for examining population structure, especially inbreeding, outbreeding and gene flow. An array of microsatellite loci, preferably with multiallelic presentation, is preferable for ensuring accurate results. However, artifact peaks or stutters in the electrophoretograms significantly hamper the reliable interpretation of genotypes. We interpreted electrophoretograms of seven microsatellite loci to determine the genetic diversity of the Arabian Oryx. All the alleles of different loci exhibited good peak resolutions and hence were clearly identified. Moreover, none of the stutter peaks impaired the recognition or differentiation between homozygote and heterozygote. Our findings suggest that correct identification of alleles in the presence of co-amplified nonspecific fragments is important for reliable interpretation of microsatellite data.

Increased Antioxidant Potential and Decreased Free Radical Production in Response to Mild Injection of Crude Venom, Cerastes cerastes gasperetti.

ABSTRACT The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of Cerastes cerastes gasperetti crude venom (CCV) on free radical (FR) production and biological antioxidant potential (BAP). Thirty male rats, matched with age and weight, were divided randomly into three groups: control (C), negative control (NC), and experimental (E). Animals in the control group served as control for needlestick and venom injection. Animals in the negative control group, which served as control for venom-induced effects, were injected intraperitoneally (IP) with saline for 8 days, whereas animals of the experimental group were injected IP with crude CCV, at a dose of 1/4 LD(50), for the same period. All animals of the three groups remained under normal laboratory and dietary conditions. Blood samples were collected by heart puncture technique and were analyzed immediately for FRs and BAP. ANOVA analysis indicated a significant difference (p < 0.05) among group means. Tukey-Kramer multiple comparisons showed that FRs increased significantly (p < 0.05) in the NC group, implying that needlestick during injection of saline for 8 days caused internal organ injury sufficient enough to induce reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation. Surprisingly, there were no significant (p > 0.05) changes in FRs in the E group as compared with the C group, which indicates that CCV counteracted the effects induced by ROS. BAP increased significantly (p < 0.05) in the E group as compared with the NC group, reflecting the activation of some antioxidant enzymes. Linear regression of FRs on BAP was significant (p < 0.05) in both the C and E groups. Based on the results of this study, it can be concluded that the CCV contains biochemical factors that activate antioxidant enzymes, as evident by elevation in the BAP that depresses ROS formation.

Epidemiological study of scorpion stings in Saudi Arabia between 1993 and 1997

This investigation evaluated the epidemiological aspects of scorpion stings in different areas of Saudi Arabia. A total of 72,168 cases of scorpion stings recorded in Ministry of Health Medical Centers in 11 selected areas of Saudi Arabia were analyzed based on area, age, sex, time of sting, sting site, treatment outcome, time of year, and scorpion species. Stings occurred throughout the year; the highest frequency was in June (15.08%), the lowest in February (2.52%). Most patients were male (61.8%); the majority of which were more than 15 years old (65.4%). Nocturnal envenomation (47.74%) was more common than diurnal (43.91%); most stings were in exposed limbs (90.95%), mainly in the lower limbs (63%). Most envenomings were mild (74.48%) and all evolved to cure, except for one death. Envenomation was characterized by local pain, erythema, headache, vomiting, and anxiety. This study found that the Leiurus quinquestriatus (Ehrenberg 1828), Androctonus crassicauda (Olivier 1807), and Apistobuthus pterygocercus (Finnegan 1807) were responsible for most of the stings, indicating their medical importance in Saudi Arabia. The study shows low threat to life despite the high number of stings; this is a result of the availability of medical facilities and the multi-center antivenom use in different areas of Saudi Arabia.

Blood parasites of five species of lizards trapped in Abha Province, Saudi Arabia.

Five species of lizards, Agama yemenensis, A. adramitana, Chamaeleo chamaeleon, C. calyptratus and Acanthodactylus baskinaus were trapped alive from Abha Province. Serological and parasitological examinations of blood revealed antibodies against toxoplasmosis and leishmaniasis. Blood films showed Hepatozoon spp. The results were discussed with reference to their role as reservoir hosts.

Eimeria schmidti n. sp. (Apicomplexa: Eimeriidae) from the sandy fringe-toed lizard (Acanthodactylus schmidti) in Saudi Arabia.

Eimeria schmidti n.sp. is described from the gall bladder of Acanthodactylus schmidti from Al-Thomama area in the central region of Saudi Arabia. Sporulated oocysts are ellipsoid 31.2 x 23.3 (26.9-36.4 x 21.2-26.0). Oocyst wall is smooth, greenish yellow, 1.31 (1.16-1.41) um thick and two-layered. Micropyle, polar granule and oocyst residuum are absent. Sporocysts are ellipsoid 12.6 x 9.3 (10.9-14.1 x 7.6-10.0) um. Sporocyst residuum is present. The sporocysts lack a stieda body. Sporozoites are banana shaped blunt at one end and tapered at the second end. Eimeria species from Lacertidae are compared.

Outcome of snakebites in Al Baha district.

Eighty-two patients with snakebites were seen at King Fahad Hospital (KFH) in Al Baha during the period from 1983G to 1989G and were retrospectively reviewed. Most common symptoms were pain (80.5%) and swelling (77%). Hemostatic abnormalities were found in 36 patients (44%) and were usually present on admission but may be delayed up to 20 hours after snakebite. All of these patients had local swellings, 17 had low hemoglobin and 29 had leukocytosis, suggesting systemic envenomation. Five patients had local skin necrosis, and three had to have fasciotomy for compartment syndrome. All patients, except one death, responded to treatment (antivenin, plasma products, or both). These data emphasize that hemostatic abnormality is the major complication of snakebite in the Al Baha District of Saudi Arabia.

The effect of crude Cerastes cerastes gasperetti venom on the activity of key metabolic enzymes in cultured human fibroblasts.

Cultured human fibroblasts were used to study the effect of a crude extract of Cerastes cerastes gasperetti venom on the activity of a profile of key enzymes of metabolism. A single concentration of the crude venom was incubated with confluent fibroblasts established from six normal subjects for a period of three hours. A dramatic reduction in the specific activities of glucose and glycogen degradative enzymes was observed (23.7 +/- 3.9%, 36.3 +/- 8.7% and 71.1 +/- 5.7% of control for citrate synthase, glucose-6-phosphate and phosphofructokinase respectively). Furthermore, the specific activity of creatine kinase was doubled. No significant change in activity of three transaminases was noticed. Incubation of the same concentration of venom for the same period of time with serum did not result in any change in the activity of the enzymes studied. It is suggested that the cells mobilize stored phosphocreatine for the production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) to compensate for the reduced rate of sugar catabolism. Furthermore, it is hereby suggested that the effects noticed on the enzyme activities are not directed at the enzyme protein itself, but are of mediated nature.

Effect of gonadal steroid hormones on the metabolic rate of the cold-acclimated gonadectomized male and female Chalcides ocellatus (Forskal).

Male and female Chalcides ocellatus were gonadectomized and cold acclimated at 15 degrees for 1 week. Lizards were injected with testosterone and estradiol, and their oxygen consumption was determined at 15 degrees. Testosterone and estradiol caused a significant increase in the whole body rate of oxygen consumption in male and female lizards, respectively.

The effect of thyroxine on the oxygen consumption of the ocellated skink, Chalcides ocellatus (Forskal).

Acutely administered thyroxine caused significant increase in the whole body rate of oxygen consumption of C. ocellatus at temperatures between 4 and 25 degrees C. No significant increase in the oxygen consumption was observed over the voluntary body temperature range of 30-40 degrees C.

Influence of a broad temperature range on the oxygen consumption rates of three desert lizard species.

Oxygen consumption rates of three desert lizard species: (Acanthodactylus boskianus, Lacertidae; Scincus mitranus, Scincidae; Diplometopon zarudnyi, Amphisbaenidae) were determined in relation to ambient temperatures ranging from 10 to 35 degrees C using a double-chamber, volumetric closed system. The interspecific differences in the oxygen consumption rates were found to have a close relationship between the characteristics of the M-T curves, the thermoregulatory behaviour and the ecology of the respective species. The M-T curves of the studied lizards were specifically modified and adjusted to their climatic region.

Comparison of thermal acclimation effects on the metabolism of Chalcides ocellatus (desert lizard) and Lacerta vivipara (cool-temperate lizard).

The ocellated lizard, Chalcides ocellatus, and the common lizard, Lacerta vivipara, were acclimated to two temperature regimes (10 and 30 degrees C with 12L:12D photoperiod) for 2 weeks. The oxygen consumption rates were measured for both species at temperatures between 5 and 35 degrees C. Cold acclimation was observed in L. vivipara and was in the form of an upward translation of the metabolic rate-temperature curve in comparison to the warm-acclimated lizards (30 degrees C). Chalcides ocellatus showed a response to cold acclimation by decreasing its metabolism only at 10 degrees C.