Nickel-Metformin Ternary Complexes: Geometrical, Thermal, DNA Binding, and Molecular Docking Studies

Novel three nickel(II) complexes of type [Ni(metf)(o-phen)₂]Cl₂ (1), [Ni(metf)(opda)₂]Cl₂ (2), [Ni(metf)(2-2'bipy)₂]Cl₂ (3), (Metf = metformin, o-phen = ortho-phenanthroline, opda = ortho-phenylenediamine, 2-2' bipy = 2-2' bipyridyl) were synthesized and characterized by various analytical and spectral techniques. Based on these studies, octahedral geometry is assigned to these complexes. The DNA binding properties of these complexes were investigated by absorption, emission, and viscosity studies. From the spectral data, it was concluded that the complexes bind to DNA through groove mode of binding. The intrinsic binding constants (K_b) from absorption spectroscopy were 1.60 × 10⁴, 3.57 × 10⁴, and 5.70 × 10⁴ M^-1 for 1, 2, and 3, respectively, and Stern-Volmer quenching constants (K_sv) from emission spectroscopy were 0.11, 0.87, and 0.24, respectively. Thermal degradation pattern of the compounds was studied and Coats-Redfern method is used to determine kinetic parameters for complexes 1, 2, and 3 from thermal studies. The software Discovery Studio 2.1 was used to assess the binding affinity and interaction pattern of complexes with the B-DNA receptor protein and complex 1 has the highest dock score.

The effectiveness of craniosacral therapy compared to standard treatment for pelvic girdle pain during pregnancy: A quasi experimental study

Introduction and Aim: Pelvic girdle pain is one of major pregnancy discomforts affecting about 50% of pregnant women. There is no evidence that standard treatment is completely effective for pelvic girdle pain in pregnant women. Hence there is a requirement for newer safer therapies such as craniosacral therapy. The aim of this study is to evaluate effectiveness of craniosacral therapy in reducing pain and improving daily life activities which is restricted in pregnant women with pelvic girdle pain.   Materials and Methods: In this quasi-experimental study, we recruited 30 pregnant women who were clinically diagnosed with pelvic girdle pain using convenient sampling technique. They were divided into control and craniosacral therapy treated group. Using NPRS and PGQ, their pain intensity and disability values were recorded and compared pre and post treatment using mean and standard deviation. The paired ‘t’ test was used for statistical analysis.   Results: Group A post treatment NPRS value range was mean = 3.00, SD = 0.85 and PGQ post treatment was mean = 36.87, SD = 4.91. Group B post treatment NPRS value mean = 1.87, SD = 0.83 and PGQ post treatment value was mean = 26.53, SD = 4.42. Since between group significant difference was p<0.0001 it was statistically significant.   Conclusion: Craniosacral therapy was found to be effective than standard treatment for pelvic girdle pain during pregnancy

A2B- and A3-Type Boron(III)Subchlorins Derived from meso-Diethoxycarbonyltripyrrane: Synthesis and Photophysical Exploration

The first direct fabrication of A₂B- and A₃-type B(III)subchlorins from meso-ethoxycarbonyl-substituted tripyrrane has been realized by condensation with appropriate acid chlorides (benzoyl chloride, butyryl chloride, and ethyl chlorooxoacetate). The aliphatic acid chloride-based annulation reaction is new to subporphyrinoid chemistry. The phenyl (6a)- or n-propyl (6b)-substituted derivatives could be oxidized to the corresponding B(III)subporphyrins upon refluxing with DDQ, whereas the triethoxycarbonyl moiety (6c) was found to be resistant to oxidation and exhibits the most red-shifted absorption (587 nm) and emission (604 nm). The study indicates that absorption and emission behaviors of the B(III)subchlorin can be tuned by the introduction of electron-rich or electron-deficient substituents at the meso-position. B(III)subchlorins 6a and 6c generate singlet oxygen efficiently (44 and 40%, respectively) and, thus, may find application as potential photosensitizers in photodynamic therapy (PDT).

1,2-Phenylene-Incorporated Smallest Expanded Calix[4]pyrrole via One-Step Synthesis of Tetrapyrrane: A Fluorescent Host for Fluoride Ion

Synthesis of tetrapyrrane 8 from acetone and pyrrole via one-step condensation was achieved for the first time along with a much-improved yield of the tripyrrane 9. Diborylation of the tetrapyrrane and subsequent "1 + 1" cyclocoupling with 1,2-diiodobenzene following the Suzuki protocol generated novel o-phenylene incorporated macrocycle belonging to the smallest meso-expanded calix[4]pyrrole family. The latter macrocycle displays exclusive turn-on fluorescence sensing of fluoride ion upon complexation via a unique partial cone conformation supported by DFT analysis in acetonitrile solvent.

Meso-Free Boron(III)subchlorin and Its μ-Oxo Dimer with Interacting Chromophores

Meso-free B(III)subchlorin 1 has been realized exclusively for the first time from meso-ethoxycarbonyl-substituted tripyrrane along with the first subchlorin dimer 2 as its μ-oxo analogue via a facile one-pot approach. The subchlorin is highly stable toward oxidation; hence, it was not contaminated with the corresponding subporphyrin analogue 3. The subchlorin (56%) and its dimer (30%) exhibit singlet oxygen generation ability for the first time. The B-O-B dimer displays strong exciton coupling between the two macrocycles.

3,6,13,16-Tetrasubstituted Porphycene: The Missing Link in Porphycene Chemistry

We have introduced the first 3,6,13,16-tetrasubstituted porphycene as its tetramethoxy analogue. This substitution pattern is one of the most general patterns yet missing in this isomeric porphyrin chemistry. This porphycene exhibits intense fluorescence along with the ability to coordinate with divalent metal ions; in particular, it forms the first stable Zn(II) complex among the tetrasubstituted porphycenes. Notably, the molecular structure of Zn1•Py displays supramolecular chirality.

Synthetic access to calix[3]pyrroles via meso-expansion: hosts with diverse guest chemistry

The bridging units between the two α-positions of the tripyrrane moiety helped in manipulating the guest binding ability of calix[3]pyrroles.

Efficient synthesis of N-methyltetranitropyrrole: A stable, insensitive and high energy melt-castable material

1-Methyl-2,3,4,5-tetranitropyrrole is the first pyrrole based stable and insensitive high energy density material at par or slightly better than RDX.

β-Hexaalkylporphycenes: Positional Effect of Alkyl Groups toward Design and Control of Structural and Photophysical Properties in Isomeric Hexaethylporphycenes

Two novel β-hexaalkylated porphycenes, i.e., 2,3,7,12,13,17- (HOT) and 2,3,6,12,13,16-hexaethylporphycenes (HIT) were introduced for the first time in porphycene chemistry. These were synthesized through McMurry coupling reactions of new isomeric unsymmetrically substituted triethylbipyrrole dialdehydes. The positional effects of alkyl groups could be manifested through significant alteration in structure of porphycene cores and, as a consequence their photophysical properties, not noticed in β-octaethylporphycene. HOT displays significant fluorescence accompanied by reasonable singlet oxygen generation ability.

Prevalence of KRAS mutations in metastatic colorectal cancer: A retrospective observational study from India

BACKGROUND

One of the genetic alterations implicated in tumor progression in colorectal cancers (CRCs) are abnormalities in Kristen Rat Sarcoma (KRAS) gene. Evaluation of KRAS mutation status is an important prognostic factor and has predictive value in deciding first line therapy based on monoclonal antibodies such as Cetuximab and Panitumumab in metastatic CRCs.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In this retrospective study, we analyzed 7 different somatic mutations in Exon 2 of KRAS gene in 299 unselected incidental CRC patients who visited the hospital for clinical management during the period 2009-2013. Most of the tumors were primarily originating from colon and rectum; nevertheless, there were a few from rectosigmoid, sigmoid, ceacum and anal canal in the study group. Genomic DNA extracted from paraffin embedded tumor tissues was screened for 7 point mutations located in Codons 12 and 13 of KRAS gene, using Scorpions amplified refractory mutation system real time polymerase chain reaction technology. Statistical analysis was performed to assess bivariate relationship between different variables that includes: mutation status, mutation type, tumor location, tumor morphology, age and sex.

RESULTS

Prevalence of mutation in Codons 12 and 13 was 42.8% in the study group. Well-differentiated tumors had significantly more mutation positivity than moderately and poorly differentiated tumors (P = 0.001). 92% of the mutations were from Codon 12 and 8% in Codon 13. Glycine to Arginine was relatively more common in rectosigmoid followed by ceacum, while Glycine to Alanine mutation was relatively more prevalent in sigmoid, followed by rectum and rectosigmoid.

CONCLUSION

The results suggest a prevalence of KRAS mutation at 42.8% in Indian population indicating that this testing is very crucial for targeted therapy management in metastatic CRC in India. Further analysis on mutation status of other homologues such as NRAS and downstream partner, v-raf murine sarcoma viral oncogene homolog B1, would add value to understanding the role of anti-epidermal growth factor receptor therapy in CRC management.

New carbazole appended subporphyrin displaying intramolecular charge transfer and solid state fluorescence

A new subporphyrin namely, hydroxo-5,10,15-tri([Formula: see text]-propyl-3-carbazolyl)subporphyri natoboron(III) 6 has been synthesized via the reported litreture procedure by the condensation of pyridine-tri-[Formula: see text]-pyrrolylborane with 9-propyl-9H-carbazole-3-carbaldehyde. Its porphyrin analog [Formula: see text]. 5,10,15,20-tetra([Formula: see text]-propyl-3-carbazolyl)porphyrin has also been isolated from the reaction mixture, formed due to scrambling process and complexed with Zn(II). Photophysical properties of both subporphyrin and Zn(II)porphyrin have been studied in detail to confirm the intramolecular charge transfer process in subporphyrin analog. In addition, the ring contracted congener 6 also displays solid state fluorescence.

Recent Advances in chemistry and pharmacology of 2-methoxyestradiol: An anticancer investigational drug

2-Methoxyestradiol (2ME2), an estrogen hormone metabolite is a potential cancer chemotherapeutic agent. Presently, it is an investigational drug under various phases of clinical trials alone or in combination therapy. Its anticancer activity has been attributed to its antitubulin, antiangiogenic, pro-apoptotic and ROS induction properties. This anticancer drug candidate has been explored extensively in last twenty years for its detailed chemistry and pharmacology. Present review is an update of its chemistry and biological activity. It also extends an assessment of potential of 2ME2 and its analogues as possible anticancer drug in future.

Treatment of Middle Third Humeral Shaft Fractures with Anteromedial Plate Osteosynthesis through an Anterolateral Approach

Background: Treatment of humeral shaft fractures has been a subject of debate for many decades. Even though a large majority of humeral shaft fractures can be treated by non operative methods, few conditions like open fractures, polytrauma, ipsilateral humeral shaft and forearm fractures require surgical intervention. The goal of treatment of humeral shaft fractures is to establish union with an acceptable humeral alignment and to restore the patient to pre-injury level of function. The objective was to assess the incidence of radial nerve palsy, non-union and mean time required for in anteromedial plate osteosynthesis with anterolateral approach and also to measure the functional outcome of this procedure.

Method: A prospective study was conducted in the Department of Orthopaedics, PESIMSR, Kuppam, Andhra Pradesh, from August 2012 to August 2015 with a total of 54 patients who were operated with anteromedial plate osteosynthesis were included in the study. Rodriguez- Merchan criteria was used to grade the functional outcome.

Results: Of the 54 patients, 28 (58.85%) were in the age group of 30-40 years. The most common fracture pattern identified was A3 type (48.14%).The mean (± SD) duration of surgery for anteromedial humeral plating was 53 ± 5.00 minutes. The time taken for the fracture to unite was less than 16 weeks in the majority or 50 patients (92.59%). Four (7.40%) patients had delayed union. There was no incidence of iatrogenic radial nerve palsy. Rodriguez – Merchan criteria showed that 37(68.51%) of the patients had good and 12 (22.22%) had excellent functional outcome.

β,β'-Bipyrrole Fusion-Driven cis-Bimetallic Complexation in Isomeric Porphyrin

An unprecedented cis-bimetallic complex of dinaphthoporphycene (DNP), namely [Pd2(μ-DNP)(μ-OAc)2], is reported. The most striking feature of this complex is that two palladiums coordinate to the macrocycle on the same side and are closely held together (Pd-Pd: 2.67 Å) by two bridging acetate ligands exhibiting significant metal-metal bonding interaction (bond order 0.18 evaluated by NBO analysis). Interestingly, replacing acetate with acetylacetonate (acac) could stabilize an unusual mono-palladium complex of DNP, where Pd coordinates unsymmetrically to two ring Ns above the macrocyclic plane, as well as coordinating with two Os of the acac ligand. Remarkably, the rigid DNP core displays enhanced complexation induced aromaticity (as per NICS and HOMA analysis), despite undergoing severe core deformation during complexation with metal ion(s) as noticed from their solid-state structures.

β-Decamethoxysapphyrin and Its N-Benzyl Analogue

The synthesis of a highly electron-rich decamethoxysapphyrin and its 27-N-benzyl analogue is reported for the first time. The effects of β-methoxy and 27-N-benzyl substitution on structure, anion binding, absorption, and electrochemical properties were explored in detail. Upon 27-N-benzyl substitution, counteranion-induced structural deformation arises in the diprotonated state, which could be clearly noticed both in solution (1)H NMR study and solid-state structural analysis. This type of anion-induced structural deformation is noted for the first time in β-substituted sapphyrins. Further, the free base sapphyrins generate singlet oxygen with moderate efficiency (∼42%); hence, they may act as good photosensitizers.

Hexaethylsubporphyrins: β-alkyl analogues in the subporphyrin family

Two new subporphyrins were synthesized for the first time from a β-substituted pyrrole i.e. 3,4-diethylpyrrole via pyridine-tri-N-(3,4-diethylpyrrolyl)borane as building blocks.

Atenolol and amlodipine combination overdose managed with continuous venovenous hemodiafiltration: A case report

We present a patient of who ingested large dose of of atenolol and amlodipine and was treated successfully with continuous venovenous hemodiafiltration. Early recognition of indications for renal support and early initiation of the same is the key to successful management.

1D water chain stabilized by meso-expanded calix[4]pyrrole

A new core expanded calix[4]pyrrole is reported, in which the opposite bridging sp³-carbons are replaced by ethylene moieties.

Current status on development of steroids as anticancer agents

Steroids are important biodynamic agents. Their affinities for various nuclear receptors have been an interesting feature to utilize them for drug development particularly for receptor mediated diseases. Steroid biochemistry and its crucial role in human physiology, has attained importance among the researchers. Recent years have seen an extensive focus on modification of steroids. The rational modifications of perhydrocyclopentanophenanthrene nucleus of steroids have yielded several important anticancer lead molecules. Exemestane, SR16157, fulvestrant and 2-methoxyestradiol are some of the successful leads emerged on steroidal pharmacophores. The present review is an update on some of the steroidal leads obtained during past 25 years. Various steroid based enzyme inhibitors, antiestrogens, cytotoxic conjugates and steroidal cytotoxic molecules of natural as well as synthetic origin have been highlighted. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled "Synthesis and biological testing of steroid derivatives as inhibitors".

Neovascularization in an arterio-venous loop-containing tissue engineering chamber: role of NADPH oxidase

Using an in vivo arterio-venous loop-containing tissue-engineering chamber, we have created a variety of vascularized tissue blocks, including functional myocardium. The viability of the transplanted cells is limited by the rate of neovascularization in the chamber. A Nox2-containing nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) oxidase is thought to have a critical role in ischaemic angiogenesis. In this study we investigated whether NADPH oxidase is involved in the neovascularization process in the tissue-engineering chamber. New blood vessels originating from the venous and the arterial ends of the loop could be identified after 3 days, and the vessel density (by lectin staining) peaked after 7 days and was maintained for at least 14 days. This was accompanied by granulation tissue formation and concomitant increase in the mRNA level of Nox4 NADPH oxidase. Although the total level of Nox2 mRNA in the chamber tissue decreased from day 3 to day 7, immunohistochemistry identified a strong expression of Nox2 in the endothelial cells of the new vessels. In human microvascular endothelial cells, the NADPH oxidase inhibitor apocynin reduced NADPH oxidase activity and inhibited the angiogenic responses in vitro. Local treatment with the NADPH oxidase inhibitors apocynin or gp91ds-tat peptide significantly suppressed the vessel growth in the chamber. In conclusion, NADPH oxidase-dependent redox signalling is important for neovascularization in this novel tissue-engineering chamber in vivo, and boosting this signalling might be a new approach to extending vascularization and tissue growth.

Influence of metham sodium on suppression of collar rot disease of peanut, in vitro antibiosis, siderophore production and root colonization by a fluorescent pseudomonad strain FPO4

A hydroxamate type siderophore producing fluorescent Pseudomonas strain, isolated from the rhizoplane of paddy root showing plant growth promoting activity, exhibited a decreased in vitro antibiosis, production of siderophore and suppression of collar rot in presence of metham sodium. Use of herbicide had a detrimental effect on the plant growth promoting activity of this organism. The multiple drug resistant mutant strain derived from this rhizobacteria colonized the roots, but the herbicide application had a negative effect on their population. HPLC analysis of the siderophore showed five peaks of which the peak number three confirmed the antifungal activity.

Antideuteron yield at the AGS and coalescence implications

We present Experiment 864's measurement of invariant antideuteron yields in 11.5A GeV/c Au+Pt collisions. The analysis includes 250x10(6) triggers representing 14x10(9) 10% central interactions sampled for events with high mass candidates. We find (1/2pip(t))d(2)N/dydp(t) = 3.5+/-1.5(stat)+0.9-0.5(syst)x10(-8) GeV-2 c(2) for 1.8<y<2.2, < p(t)> = 0.35 GeV/c ( y(c.m.) = 1.6) and 3.7+/-2.7(stat)+1.4-1.5(syst)x10(-8) GeV-2 c(2) for 1.4<y<1.8, < p(t)> = 0.26 GeV/c, and a coalescence parameter B2; of 4.1+/-2. 9(stat)+2.3-2.4(syst)x10(-3) GeV2 c(-3). Implications for coalescence and antimatter annihilation are discussed.

Poorly differentiated carcinoma of the lung presenting with Lambert--Eaton myasthenic syndrome

Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome commonly seen in small-cell lung cancer represents an autoimmune reaction against antigens coexpressed by tumor and neurons. It is rarely seen with other histologic subtypes. Symptoms antedate the appearance of the neoplasm by weeks to years. Therapeutic options range from immunosuppression, plasmapheresis, pharmacologic facilitation of neuromuscular transmission, and definitive therapy of the primary tumor. This case report describes the rare association of Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome with non-small-cell lung cancer.

Left ventricular mass index in patients of end stage renal disease (non-diabetic) on regular haemodialysis

Echocardiography in patients of end stage renal failure (non diabetic) on regular haemodialysis revealed increase in left ventricular mass index in comparison to healthy controls. Anaemia, chronic uraemic state and hypertension were the probable contributory factors.

Hepatic cysts in adult polycystic kidney disease

Of ninety two adult polycystic kidney patients 18.5% had liver cysts. Mostly they were multiple. Liver cysts were more common in men.

Crop improvement and disease suppression by a Bacillus spp. SR2 from pea nut rhizosphere

An antibiotic producing Bacillus strain SR2, isolated from pea nut rhizosphere, showed in vitro antibiosis against many known plant pathogens. Seed bacterization with this strain showed an enhancement in seed germination, shoot height, root length, fresh and dry weights in four crop plants. A multiple drug resistant strain, SR2+, used to monitor root colonization confirmed the root colonization by the organism. Seed bacterization, reduced the number of chick pea wilted plants in wilt-sick soil, making the organism a potential bio-control agent against chick pea wilt.

Fungicidal and insect controlling properties of Proteus strain RRLJ 16, isolated from tea, Camellia sinensis (L) O Kuntze, plantations

A strain of Proteus RRLJ 16, isolated from acid (pH 4.5-5.5) iron rich tea (Camellia sinensis) plantation soil, produced siderophores with single absorption peak at 370 nm when cultured in iron free medium. Extracted crude fraction of siderophores and live cultures showed in vitro antibiosis against five species of pathogenic fungi. When the strain was cultured in a normal bacteriological medium without iron stress, it produced an insect repellent compound. The culture filtrate sprayed (dilution of 1:100 in water) on tea plants infected with pink mites or green flies, the insect populations disappeared from the plants. Termite galleries sprayed similarly showed no termite activity after 24 hr of spraying. No reinfestation by insects was observed on treated plants for more than one year.