Synthesis, characterization, and BSA binding studies of newfangled 2-phenylacetohydrazide derivatives

Five 2-phenylacetohydrazide derivatives (BPAH = N'-benzylidene-2-phenylacetohydrazide, HBPAH = N'-(2-hydroxybenzylidene)-2-phenylacetohydrazide), PPAH = 2-phenyl-N'-3-phenylallylideneacetohydrazide, FMPAH = N'-(furan-2-ylmethylene)-2-phenylaceto hydrazide and EPAH = N'-ethylidene-2-phenylacetohydrazide were synthesized by the condensation of 2-phenylacetohydrazide with the corresponding aldehyde. The synthesized compounds were characterized by FTIR, 1D, and 2D NMR spectroscopy. The structure of the BPAH and PPAH were analyzed by single crystal X-ray diffraction analysis and in both crystallized compounds, the molecules adopted trans geometry around the -C[bond, double bond]N- (imine) functional group. To explore the pharmacological significance of these compounds, the binding ability of these compounds with Bovine Serum Albumin (BSA) was investigated using fluorescence spectroscopy. BPAH and PPAH showed the highest binding ability while EPAH, HBPAH, and FMPAH had lower binding ability to BSA molecules. Thermodynamic parameters ΔG, ΔH°, and ΔS° demonstrated that interactions of BSA with compounds BPAH, EPAH, FMAH, and HBPAH were exothermic while for PPAH it was endothermic. The negative enthalpy and entropy of the compounds BPAH, EPAH, FMAH, and HBPAH indicated that van der Waals' forces and hydrogen bonding played a major role in stabilizing the BSA binding with the molecules. Hydrophobic interactions were predominant in the binding of PPAH with BSA tends to interact with two sets of BSA binding sites with an increase in temperature.

Identification of Novel Quinolone and Quinazoline Alkaloids as Phosphodiesterase 10A Inhibitors for Parkinson's Disease through a Computational Approach

Phosphodiesterases (PDEs) are vital in signal transduction, specifically by hydrolyzing cAMP and cGMP. Within the PDE family, PDE10A is notable for its prominence in the striatum and its regulatory function over neurotransmitters in medium-spiny neurons. Given the dopamine deficiency in Parkinson's disease (PD) that affects striatal pathways, PDE10A inhibitors could offer therapeutic benefits by modulating D1 and D2 receptor signaling. This study was motivated by the successful history of quinazoline/quinazoline scaffolds in the inhibition of PDE10A. This study involved detailed in silico evaluations through docking followed by pharmacological, pharmacophoric, and pharmacokinetic analyses, prioritizing central nervous system (CNS)-active drug criteria. Seven cyclic peptides, those featuring the quinazoline/quinazoline moiety at both termini, exhibited notably enhanced docking scores compared to those of the remaining alkaloids within the screened library. We identified 7 quinolines and 1 quinazoline including Lepadin G, Aspernigerin, CJ-13536, Aurachin A, 2-Undecyl-4(1H)-quinolone, Huajiaosimuline 3-Prenyl-4-prenyloxyquinolin-2-one, and Isaindigotone that followed the standard CNS active drug criteria. The dominant quinoline ring in our study and its related quinazoline were central to our evaluations; therefore, the pharmacophoric features of these scaffolds were highlighted. The top alkaloids met all CNS-active drug properties; while nonmutagenic and without PAINS alerts, many indicated potential hepatotoxicity. Among the compounds, Huajiaosimuline was particularly significant due to its alignment with lead-likeness and CNS-active criteria. Aspernigerin demonstrated its affinity for numerous dopamine receptors, which signifies its potential to alter dopaminergic neurotransmission that is directly related to PD. Interestingly, the majority of these alkaloids had biological targets primarily associated with G protein-coupled receptors, critical in PD pathophysiology. They exhibit superior excretion parameters and toxicity end-points compared to the standard. Notably, selected alkaloids demonstrated stability in the binding pocket of PDE10A according to the molecular dynamic simulation results. Our findings emphasize the potential of these alkaloids as PDE10A inhibitors. Further experimental studies may be necessary to confirm their actual potency in inhibiting PDE10A before exploring their therapeutic potential in PD.

Computational medicinal chemistry applications to target Asian-prevalent strain of hepatitis C virus

Hepatitis C Virus (HCV), affecting millions of people worldwide, is the leading cause of liver disorder, cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma. HCV is genetically diverse having eight genotypes and several subtypes predominant in different regions of the globe. The HCV NS3/4A protease is a primary therapeutic target for HCV with various FDA-approved antivirals and several clinical developments. However, available protease inhibitors (PIs) have lower potency against HCV genotype 3 (GT3), prevalent in South Asia. In this study, the incumbent computational tools were utilized to understand and explore interactions of the HCV GT3 receptor with the potential inhibitors after the virtual screening of one million compounds retrieved from the ZINC database. The molecular dynamics, pharmacological studies, and experimental studies uncovered the potential PIs as ZINC000224449889, ZINC000224374291, and ZINC000224374456 and the derivative of ZINC000224374456 from the ZINC library. The study revealed that these top-hit compounds exhibited good binding and better pharmacokinetics properties that might be considered the most promising compound against HCV GT3 protease. Viability test, on primary healthy Human Gingival Fibroblasts (HGFs) and cancerous AGS cell line, was also carried out to assess their safety profile after administration. In addition, Surface Plasmon Resonance (SPR) was also performed for the determination of affinity and kinetics of synthesized compounds with target proteins.

Successful Renal Transplantation in a Patient With Senior-Loken Syndrome and Antiphospholipid Syndrome: A Case Report

Senior-Loken syndrome (SLS) is a rare autosomal recessive disorder affecting the eyes and the kidneys. It is an extremely rare disorder with an incidence of 1/1,000,000. Like most hereditary disorders, it is more commonly seen in families with consanguineous marriages. Here, we present a case of a 35-year-old male with a complicated past medical history, who presented to us in the outpatient department for kidney transplant consideration. The patient was diagnosed case of Senior-Loken syndrome with a family history of autoimmune diseases, renal disease, and multiple unexplained miscarriages. He also had multiple dialysis access-related complications requiring frequent access changes. He previously had an unrelated pre-emptive renal transplant which resulted in graft failure within 48 hours. In view of his history, a prothrombotic condition was suspected and the patient was started on warfarin. Workup was positive for lupus anticoagulant and hematology recommended lifelong anticoagulation. The patient had a related renal transplant that was successful. He is now on apixaban and has not had any thrombotic complications to date. This patient had antiphospholipid syndrome leading to multiple thrombotic events and a failed graft, but was never worked up for autoimmune disorders despite having a strong family history. His renal disease was presumed to be secondary to a rare condition - Senior-Loken syndrome and he was not investigated for a co-existing condition (e.g., antiphospholipid syndrome {APLS} in this case) which led to early graft failure. Hence when considering a patient for transplant, care should be taken to rule out autoimmune diseases and not ignore possible co-existing conditions in the presence of a renal pathology.

Assessing Leaching of Potentially Hazardous Elements from Cookware during Cooking: A Serious Public Health Concern

The intake of toxic metals from cooking utensils through food is of growing concern to the medical community. This intake poses serious risk to human health. In many developing countries, different types of contaminated metals scraps are used to make cooking utensils. The leaching of both nutritionally essential and toxic metals in significant quantities from cookware during the cooking process results in food contamination and poses a substantial health risk. In the present study, the leaching of some toxic and potentially toxic metals from cooking utensils into different solutions and food was investigated. A preliminary survey indicated that the majority of individuals tend to use aluminum cookware due to its affordability, overlooking the potential health risks associated with these inexpensive and lower-quality cooking utensils. XRF analysis revealed that aluminum, steel, and copper cookware had K, Ca, Pb, Cd, Ni, V, Sn Mo, Zn, Bi, and Tb as contaminants. In addition, aluminum (3.2 ± 0.25 to 4.64 ± 0.20 g/kg) and copper cookware (2.90 ± 0.12 g/kg) were highly contaminated with lead. The time and pH-dependent study revealed that leaching of metals (Al, Pb, Ni, Cr, Cd, Cu, and Fe, etc.) into food was predominantly from anodized and non-anodized aluminum cookware. More metal leaching was observed from new aluminum cookware compared to old. Acidic food was found to cause more metals to leach during cooking. Blood metal analysis of the local population revealed the presence of high concentrations of Al, Pb, Cd, and Ni. In conclusion, leaching of toxic or potentially toxic metals from cookware into food, especially from anodized and non-anodized aluminum cookware, poses a potential public health risk. Practical applications: Cooking utensils are routinely used for the preparation of food. However, the harmful impact posed by these essential items is largely unknown. The current research briefly explains the toxic metals leaching from cookware in a pH-dependent manner and leaves a message to the public, especially in developing countries like Pakistan, regarding the type of cookware suitable for cooking purposes.

Development of allosteric and selective CDK2 inhibitors for contraception with negative cooperativity to cyclin binding

Compared to most ATP-site kinase inhibitors, small molecules that target an allosteric pocket have the potential for improved selectivity due to the often observed lower structural similarity at these distal sites. Despite their promise, relatively few examples of structurally confirmed, high-affinity allosteric kinase inhibitors exist. Cyclin-dependent kinase 2 (CDK2) is a target for many therapeutic indications, including non-hormonal contraception. However, an inhibitor against this kinase with exquisite selectivity has not reached the market because of the structural similarity between CDKs. In this paper, we describe the development and mechanism of action of type III inhibitors that bind CDK2 with nanomolar affinity. Notably, these anthranilic acid inhibitors exhibit a strong negative cooperative relationship with cyclin binding, which remains an underexplored mechanism for CDK2 inhibition. Furthermore, the binding profile of these compounds in both biophysical and cellular assays demonstrate the promise of this series for further development into a therapeutic selective for CDK2 over highly similar kinases like CDK1. The potential of these inhibitors as contraceptive agents is seen by incubation with spermatocyte chromosome spreads from mouse testicular explants, where they recapitulate Cdk2-/- and Spdya-/- phenotypes.

Nanoscale Surface Functionalization Based on Heterogeneous Self-Assembled Monolayers for Molecular-Scale Electronics

Mixed self-assembled monolayers (mixed SAMs)-based molecular-scale electronic devices in recent years have gained great achievement in the fundamental study on charge transport mechanism and electronic functionalities. This review aims to summarize the preparation and characterization, structure modulation, and applications of heterogeneous mixed SAMs in molecular electronics. One key advantage of SAM-based molecular devices compared to single molecular devices is the ability to tune the intermolecular interactions, and two-dimensional (2-D) assembly structure allows for the optimization of charge transport in desired devices. Herein we review the qualitative and quantitative examination of the nanoscale organization and intermolecular interactions of mixed SAMs obtained by various mixed SAM preparation and characterization techniques. The use of mixed SAMs to control the structural order and compactness of SAM to form high-performance molecular electronic devices is also reviewed. Finally, we wrap up the review by discussing the challenges of this technique for the development of novel electronic functional devices in the future.

Modular and Computational Access to Innocuous Multistep Metal-Free Synthesis of 1,3,4-Oxadiazoles as Enzyme Inhibitors

An array of 1,3,4-oxadiazole hybrids, 7a-s, structurally intriguing cores with potential in natural product synthesis and drug discovery, have been synthesized using innovative comparable conventional and microwave-assisted protocols. The synthesis was performed by the reaction of secondary amine-based acetamides, 6a-s, as the electrophile and piperidine-based oxadiazoles as the nucleophile, 3, under the metal-free reaction conditions. High yield in minimum time with highest purity was obtained by the microwave-irradiated method instead of the conventional one. The structural elucidations were made through infrared, 1H NMR, 13C NMR, and elemental analysis studies. The whole array of synthesized compounds, 7a-s, was evaluated for their potential against α-glucosidase and butyryl cholinesterase (BChE) enzymes. Natural bond orbital and structural optimizations were made by using the B3LYP method and the basis set of 6-311++G(d,p). Frontier molecular orbitals and molecular electrostatic potential were calculated at the same level of selected compounds as potential candidates against BChE and α-glucosidase enzymes utilizing the time-dependent density functional theory. Fifteen compounds out of 19 were observed to be active against α-glucosidase enzyme in comparison with acarbose as the reference standard and 7 against the BChE enzyme compared to eserine as the reference standard. The highest potential of compound 7j against BChE is well correlated by the higher binding interaction with target protein as -10.2, calculated by docking studies. The recruited compounds against both enzymes could be the best anti-enzymatic drugs and part of drugs discovery programs after further analysis.

Screening through Lead Optimization of High Affinity, Allosteric Cyclin-Dependent Kinase 2 (CDK2) Inhibitors as Male Contraceptives That Reduce Sperm Counts in Mice

Although cyclin-dependent kinase 2 (CDK2) is a validated target for both cancer and contraception, developing a CDK2 inhibitor with exquisite selectivity has been challenging due to the structural similarity of the ATP-binding site, where most kinase inhibitors bind. We previously discovered an allosteric pocket in CDK2 with the potential to bind a selective compound and then discovered and structurally confirmed an anthranilic acid scaffold that binds this pocket with high affinity. These allosteric inhibitors are selective for CDK2 over structurally similar CDK1 and show contraceptive potential. Herein, we describe the screening and optimization that led to compounds like EF-4-177 with nanomolar affinity for CDK2. EF-4-177 is metabolically stable, orally bioavailable, and significantly disrupts spermatogenesis, demonstrating this series' therapeutic potential. This work details the discovery of the highest affinity allosteric CDK inhibitors reported and shows promise for this series to yield an efficacious and selective allosteric CDK2 inhibitor.

In vitro biological assessment of 1,3,4-oxadiazole sandwiched by azinane and acetamides supported by molecular docking and BSA binding studies

The 1,3,4-Oxadiazole is an aromatic heterocyclic moiety recognized in drug research for its low lipophilicity. The multiple functionalities, heterocyclic azinane, sulfonamide, 1,3,4-oxadiazole and acetamide, are combined collectively to enhance the bioactivity potential of synthesized molecules. All the compounds were acquired by following microwave assisted and conventional techniques in a comparative way. The synthesized derivatives were screened for their antibacterial and enzyme inhibition potential. Furthermore, BSA binding analysis was executed to infer about the interaction with serum albumin. The spectral data of IR, EI-MS, 1H-NMR and 13C-NMR were used to elucidate the final structures of compounds. The synthesized compounds had a modest antibacterial potential. Compound 8f bearing 2-methyl-4,5-dinitrophenyl group was the most active one against all the bacterial strains taken into account and α-glucosidase enzyme. Compound 8d bearing 4-nitrophenyl group was the best acetyl cholinesterase inhibitor and 8i bearing phenylethyl group was the best urease inhibitor.

Machine Learning Hybrid Model for the Prediction of Chronic Kidney Disease

To diagnose an illness in healthcare, doctors typically conduct physical exams and review the patient's medical history, followed by diagnostic tests and procedures to determine the underlying cause of symptoms. Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is currently the leading cause of death, with a rapidly increasing number of patients, resulting in 1.7 million deaths annually. While various diagnostic methods are available, this study utilizes machine learning due to its high accuracy. In this study, we have used the hybrid technique to build our proposed model. In our proposed model, we have used the Pearson correlation for feature selection. In the first step, the best models were selected on the basis of critical literature analysis. In the second step, the combination of these models is used in our proposed hybrid model. Gaussian Naïve Bayes, gradient boosting, and decision tree classifier are used as a base classifier, and the random forest classifier is used as a meta-classifier in the proposed hybrid model. The objective of this study is to evaluate the best machine learning classification techniques and identify the best-used machine learning classifier in terms of accuracy. This provides a solution for overfitting and achieves the highest accuracy. It also highlights some of the challenges that affect the result of better performance. In this study, we critically review the existing available machine learning classification techniques. We evaluate in terms of accuracy, and a comprehensive analytical evaluation of the related work is presented with a tabular system. In implementation, we have used the top four models and built a hybrid model using UCI chronic kidney disease dataset for prediction. Gradient boosting achieves around 99% accuracy, random forest achieves 98%, decision tree classifier achieves 96% accuracy, and our proposed hybrid model performs best getting 100% accuracy on the same dataset. Some of the main machine learning algorithms used to predict the occurrence of CKD are Naïve Bayes, decision tree, K-nearest neighbor, random forest, support vector machine, LDA, GB, and neural network. In this study, we apply GB (gradient boosting), Gaussian Naïve Bayes, and decision tree along with random forest on the same set of features and compare the accuracy score.

Modulated Structure and Rectification Properties of a Molecular Junction by a Mixed Self-Assembled Monolayer

The organization of the self-assembled monolayer (SAM) determines its electronic structure and so governs the charge transport process and device performance when adopted into a molecular device. We report a systematic study on the supramolecular structure and rectification performance of the ferrocene (11-ferrocenyl-1-undecanethiol, FUT) based SAM modulated by mixed SAM with inert 1-undecanethiol (C₁₁SH) as diluent. We compared mixed SAMs by two different post assembly strategies, i.e., post assembly of C₁₁SH on FUT SAM and post assembly of FUT on C₁₁SH SAM. The organization and structure of FUT in the mixed SAM were extensively studied by cyclic voltammetry (CV) using the Laviron model. Rectification properties of the mixed SAM obtained using eutectic indium gallium (EGaIn) as the top electrode revealed that the magnitude and stability of the rectification ratio (RR) strongly correlated to not only the amount but also the phase structure and orientation of the FUT in the monolayer, resulting in a tunable RR and increased stability. The mixed monolayer achieved an increased performance relative to pure FUT by post assembling FUT on C₁₁SH SAM, which formed an optimally dense and well-packed monolayer with the FUT head resting on the top of the alkane SAM.

Execution and Design of an Anti HPIV-1 Vaccine with Multiple Epitopes Triggering Innate and Adaptive Immune Responses: An Immunoinformatic Approach

Human Parainfluenza Virus (HPIV) Type-1, which is an anti-sense ribonucleic acid (RNA) virus belonging to the paramyxoviridae family, induces upper and lower respiratory tract infections. The infections caused by the HPIV Type-1 virus are usually confined to northwestern regions of America. HPIV-1 causes infections through the virulence of the hemagglutinin-neuraminidase (HN) protein, which plays a key role in the attachment of the viral particle with the host’s receptor cells. To the best of our knowledge, there is no effective antiviral drugs or vaccines being developed to combat the infection caused by HPIV-1. In the current study, a multiple epitope-based vaccine was designed against HPIV-1 by taking the viral HN protein as a probable vaccine candidate. The multiple epitopes were selected in accordance with their allergenicity, antigenicity and toxicity scoring. The determined epitopes of the HN protein were connected simultaneously using specific conjugates along with an adjuvant to construct the subunit vaccine, with an antigenicity score of 0.6406. The constructed vaccine model was docked with various Toll-like Receptors (TLRs) and was computationally cloned in a pET28a (+) vector to analyze the expression of vaccine sequence in the biological system. Immune stimulations carried out by the C-ImmSim Server showed an excellent result of the body’s defense system against the constructed vaccine model. The AllerTop tool predicted that the construct was non-allergen with and without the adjuvant sequence, and the VaxiJen 2.0 with 0.4 threshold predicted that the construct was antigenic, while the Toxinpred predicted that the construct was non-toxic. Protparam results showed that the selected protein was stable with 36.48 instability index (II) scores. The Grand average of Hydropathicity or GRAVY score indicated that the constructed protein was hydrophilic in nature. Aliphatic index values (93.53) confirmed that the construct was thermostable. This integrated computational approach shows that the constructed vaccine model has a potential to combat laryngotracheobronchitis infections caused by HPIV-I.

The Molecular Characterization of Virulence Determinants and Antibiotic Resistance Patterns in Human Bacterial Uropathogens

The high rates of bacterial infections affect the economy worldwide by contributing to the increase in morbidity and treatment costs. The present cross-sectional study was carried out to evaluate the prevalence of bacterial infection in urinary tract infection (UTI) patients and to evaluate the antimicrobial resistance rate (AMR) in a Tertiary Care Hospital in Lahore, Pakistan. The study was conducted for the period of one year from January 2020 to December 2020. A total of 1899 different clinical samples were collected and examined for bacterial cultures using standard procedures. Samples were inoculated on different culture media to isolate bacterial isolates and for identification and susceptibility testing. A total of 1107/1899 clinical samples were positive for Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (P. aeruginosa), Escherichia coli (E. coli) and other bacterial isolates. Methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) prevalence was 16.93% from these positive cases. MRSA strains were found to be highly resistant to amikacin, clindamycin, fusidic acid, gentamicin and tobramycin, while highest sensitivity was noted against vancomycin (100%) and linezolid (100%). MRSA and high rates of multidrug resistance (MDR) pose a serious therapeutic burden to critically ill patients. A systematic and concerted effort is essential to rapidly identify high-risk patients and to reduce the burden of AMR.

Correlation between Serum Ascites Albumin Gradient and Endoscopic Grading of Esophageal Varices in patients with cirrhosis

Introduction: The serum-ascites albumin gradient (SAAG) is a medical calculation that can help determine the cause of your ascites. The SAAG may be a more effective discriminator than the usual method of dividing ascites fluid into transudates and exudates. Objective: The objective of this study was to see if there was a link between the serum ascites albumin gradient and the endoscopic grading of esophageal varices in cirrhotic individuals. Materials and Methods: This Cross-sectional study was conducted in Unit II, Department of Medicine, Lahore General Hospital, Lahore during 3-10-2018 to 3-4-2019. A total of 60 patients who met the study's inclusion criteria were included. Blood sample was taken and sent to the laboratory of the hospital for assessment of serum albumin level and SAAG was calculated. Results: Results of this study showed positive moderate correlation between grades of varices and SAAG i.e. r= 0.661, p-value=0.000. Esophageal varices appear to be directly linked to the severity of SAAG. Conclusion: In individuals with cirrhosis, there is a moderately strong significant association between the SAAG and the endoscopic grading of esophageal varices. In cirrhotic individuals, SAAG may be a useful biomarker for EV development. Key words: Correlation, Serum ascites, Albumin, Gradient, Endoscopic, Esophageal, Varices, Cirrhosis

HCV genotype-specific drug discovery through structure-based virtual screening

Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) poses great threat worldwide, and is a major cause for liver cancer. HCV genome encodes polyprotein that is subsequently cleaved into independently functioning proteins, which spread viral infection in host. The Non-Structural 3 (NS3) protease is responsible for cleaving the polyprotein, and may serve as a potential drug target. Since HCV has seven genotypes, the available drugs are predominantly designed for genotype 1 (GT1), and others prevalent in Europe. Consequently, these drugs lose efficacy when they are used for different genotypes. The current perspective study aims to find potential drug candidate against genotype 3 (GT3), prevalent in South Asia. The current study employed molecular docking technique and in silico ADME prediction tool to highlight potentially active compounds against HCV NS3 GT3. The study revealed Li_PIO_114 and Li_PIH_191 as potential lead compounds, as suggested by their docking score and ADME properties. These two compounds could be further optimized to improve their drug likeliness for curing HCV GT3.

Biological screening and docking studies of unique hybrids synthesized by conventional versus microwave assisted techniques

Purpose: To carry out the synthesis of various hybrids of 1,2,4-triazole in search of potential therapeutic enzyme inhibitory agents, and carry out docking and bovine serum albumin (BSA) binding studies on docking and bovine serum albumin (BSA) binding studies on the hybrids. Methods: The target compounds were synthesized by following a multistep protocol. Compound 1 was synthesized from 4-methoxybenzenesulfonyl chloride (a) and ethyl isonipecotate (b). Compound 1 was refluxed with hydrazine to synthesize compound 2, which was converted to compound 3 through two consecutive steps. Compound 4 and different amines (5a-5i), were utilized to synthesize an array of electrophiles (6a-6i). A series of 1,2,4-triazole hybrids (7a-7i) were synthesized at room temperature by stirring together 3 and 6a-6i. The final structures of 7a-7i were elucidated through 1H-NMR, 13C-NMR and EI-MS spectroscopy. The BSA binding studies were performed by fluorometric titration. Furthermore, antioxidant and enzyme inhibition activities were determined colorimetrically. Results: Compound 7d was the most active antioxidant agent, compared to butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA), while compounds 7d, 7e, 7f, 7g and 7i proved to be potent urease inhibitors with half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) values of 19.5 ± 0.12, 21.1 ± 0.68, 18.2 ± 0.78, 19.9 ± 0.77 and 17.9 ± 0.10 µM, respectively, compared to thiourea with an IC50 of 24.3 ± 0.24 µM. Compounds 7a, 7b, 7d, and 7e exhibited high butyrylcholinesterase inhibition potential, compared to eserine. Conclusion: The synthesized compounds require studies further as potential therapeutic enzyme inhibitory agents in view of their urease inhibition as well as antioxidant activity.

UTILIZATION OF MICROWAVE ASSISTED BLACK CUMIN SEED EXTRACT AS HYPOCHOLESTEROLEMIC AGENT IN ALBINO RATS

Main aim of this study was to evaluate hypocholesterolemic potential of microwave-assisted black cumin (Nigella sativa) extracts (MABCEs) in a rat bioassay. Efficacy trial in this study comprised of 25 male albino rats which were divided into 5 groups having 5 rats each. Out of these 25 rats, 20 were hypercholesterolemic and 5 were normal rats. Hypercholesterolemia was induced by providing high cholesterol diet for 15 days, and after the onset of hypercholesterolemia these rats were administered with different concentrations of the MABCE i.e. 150, 300 & 450 mg/kg B.W. for a period of 28 days. The administration of extract displayed significant lowering in the lipid profile of the experimental rats. The 300mg/kg B.W. dose of black cumin MAE provided the optimum results giving cholesterol, triglyceride and LDL-c content lowered by 14.9%, 11.32% and 12% and value of HDL-c elevated by 12.88% compared to the hypercholesterolemic control. Similarly, there was a percent elevation in levels of SOD and CAT by 19.83% and 13.97%. The current study concluded that MABCEs have hypocholesterolemic effect thus can be used for its therapeutic property.

Systematic Modulation of Charge Transport in Molecular Devices through Facile Control of Molecule-Electrode Coupling Using a Double Self-Assembled Monolayer Nanowire Junction

We report a novel solid-state molecular device structure based on double self-assembled monolayers (D-SAM) incorporated into the suspended nanowire architecture to form a "Au|SAM-1||SAM-2|Au" junction. Using commercially available thiol molecules that are devoid of synthetic difficulty, we constructed a "Au|S-(CH2)6-ferrocene||SAM-2|Au" junction with various lengths and chemical structures of SAM-2 to tune the coupling between the ferrocene conductive molecular orbital and electrode of the junction. Combining low noise and a wide temperature range measurement, we demonstrated systematically modulated conduction depending on the length and chemical nature of SAM-2. Meanwhile, the transport mechanism transition from tunneling to hopping and the intermediate state accompanied by the current fluctuation due to the coexistence of the hopping and tunneling transport channels were observed. Considering the versatility of this solid-state D-SAM in modulating the electrode-molecule interface and electroactive groups, this strategy thus provides a novel facile strategy for tailorable nanoscale charge transport studies and functional molecular devices.

BSA Binding, molecular docking and in vitro biological screening of some new 1, 2, 4-triazole heterocycles bearing azinane nucleus

A series of new compounds (5a-q), derived from 5-(1-(4-nitrophenylsulfonyl) piperidin-4-yl)-4-phenyl-4H-1,2,4-triazole-3-thiol (3) were proficiently synthesized to evaluate their biological activities. 1-(4-Nitrophenylsulfonyl) piperidine-4-carbohydrazide (2) was refluxed with phenylisothiocyanate to yield an adduct which was cyclized to compound 3 by reflux reaction with 10 % potassium hydroxide. The targeted compounds 5a-q, were synthesized by stirring alkyl/aralkyl halides (4a-q) and compound 3 in a polar aprotic solvent. 1H-NMR, ¹³C-NMR, EI-MS and IR spectral techniques were employed to confirm the structures of all the synthesized compounds. The compounds were biologically evaluated for BSA binding studies followed by anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory and acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activities. The active sites responsible for the best AChE inhibition were identified through molecular docking studies. Compound 5e bearing 4-chlorobenzyl moiety found most active antibacterial and anti-inflammatory agent among the synthesized compounds. The whole library of synthesized compounds except compounds 5d and 5f was found highly active for AChE inhibition and recommended for in vivo studies so that their therapeutic applications may come in utilization.

Tunable oligo-histidine self-assembled monolayer junction and charge transport by a pH modulated assembly

Histidine works as an important mediator in the charge transport process through proteins via its conjugate side group. It can also stabilize a peptide's secondary structure through hydrogen bonding of the imidazole group. In this study, the conformation of the self-assembled monolayer (SAM) and the charge transport of the tailor-made oligopeptide hepta-histidine derivative (7-His) were modulated through the pH control of the assembly environment. Histidine is found to be an efficient tunneling mediator in monolayer junctions with an attenuation factor of β = ∼0.5 Å-1. Successful theoretical model fitting indicates a linear increase in the number of tunneling sites as the 7-His SAM thickness increases, following the deprotonation of histidine. Combined with the ultraviolet photoelectron spectroscopy (UPS) measurements, a modulable charge transport pathway through 7-His with imidazole groups of histidine as tunneling foot stones is revealed. Histidine therefore possesses a large potential for modulable functional (bio)electronic devices.

Optimization of bio-cement production from cement kiln dust using microalgae

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CKD with microalgae sp. Chlorella kessleri is investigated for maximum bio-cement yields.

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A predictive quadratic model was developed for CaCO₃ yield with R² value of c.a. 92%.

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Low temperature and high pH were found to be important parameters in RSM study.

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Under optimal set, a maximum of 96% Ca was extracted experimentally from CKD.

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FTIR, XRD and EDS analysis confirmed the produced bio-cement compound.

The main aim of this study was to maximize bio-cement (CaCO₃) production through a waste feedstock of cement kiln dust (CKD) as a source of calcium by deployment of microalgae sp. Chlorella kessleri. The effect of process parameters such as temperature, pH and time-intervals of microalgae cultivation, were set as criteria that ultimately subscribe to a process of optimization. In this regard, a single factor experiments integrated with response surface methodology (RSM) via central composite design (CCD) was considered. A quadratic model was developed to predict the maximum CaCO₃ yield. A ceiling of 25.18 g CaCO₃ yield was obtained at an optimal set of 23 °C, pH of 10.63 and day-9 of microalgae culture. Under these optimized conditions, maximum 96% calcium was extracted from CKD. FTIR, XRD and EDS analyses were conducted to characterize the CaCO₃ precipitates. Compressive modes of mechanical testing seemed to hold conventional cement complimented by CaCO₃ co-presence markedly superior to mere cement performance as far as compressive strength is concerned. The latter criterion exhibited further increase in correspondence with rise in cement to bio-cement ratio. This investigative endeavour at hand offers a simple pivotal platform on the basis of which a scale-up of microalgae-infested bio-cement production might be facilitated in conjunction with the added benefit of alleviation in environmental pollution through cement waste utilization.

Critical care usage after major gastrointestinal and liver surgery: a prospective, multicentre observational study

BACKGROUND

Patient selection for critical care admission must balance patient safety with optimal resource allocation. This study aimed to determine the relationship between critical care admission, and postoperative mortality after abdominal surgery.

METHODS

This prespecified secondary analysis of a multicentre, prospective, observational study included consecutive patients enrolled in the DISCOVER study from UK and Republic of Ireland undergoing major gastrointestinal and liver surgery between October and December 2014. The primary outcome was 30-day mortality. Multivariate logistic regression was used to explore associations between critical care admission (planned and unplanned) and mortality, and inter-centre variation in critical care admission after emergency laparotomy.

RESULTS

Of 4529 patients included, 37.8% (n=1713) underwent planned critical care admissions from theatre. Some 3.1% (n=86/2816) admitted to ward-level care subsequently underwent unplanned critical care admission. Overall 30-day mortality was 2.9% (n=133/4519), and the risk-adjusted association between 30-day mortality and critical care admission was higher in unplanned [odds ratio (OR): 8.65, 95% confidence interval (CI): 3.51-19.97) than planned admissions (OR: 2.32, 95% CI: 1.43-3.85). Some 26.7% of patients (n=1210/4529) underwent emergency laparotomies. After adjustment, 49.3% (95% CI: 46.8-51.9%, P<0.001) were predicted to have planned critical care admissions, with 7% (n=10/145) of centres outside the 95% CI.

CONCLUSIONS

After risk adjustment, no 30-day survival benefit was identified for either planned or unplanned postoperative admissions to critical care within this cohort. This likely represents appropriate admission of the highest-risk patients. Planned admissions in selected, intermediate-risk patients may present a strategy to mitigate the risk of unplanned admission. Substantial inter-centre variation exists in planned critical care admissions after emergency laparotomies.

In silico and BSA binding study of some new biological analogs of 1,2,4-triazolependant with azinane through microwave and conventional synthesis

Microwave and conventional techniques were employed to synthesize a novel array of compounds 7a-g with 1,2,4-triazole and piperidine rings having great biological importance. The microwave assisted method has a better operational scope with respect to time and yield comparative to the conventional method. 1H-NMR, 13C-NMR and IR techniques were employed to justify the structure of synthesized compounds. The antioxidant, butyrylcholinesterase inhibition and urease inhibition potential of every synthesized compound was evaluated. Every member of the synthesized series was found potent against mentioned activities. Compound 7g was the most active anti-urease agent having IC50 (μM) value 16.5±0.09 even better than the thiourea with an IC50(μM) value of 24.3±0.24. The better urease inhibition potential of 7g was also elaborated and explained by docking and bovine serum albumin (BSA) binding studies.

Synthesis, in vitro and in silico studies of S-alkylated 5-(4-methoxyphenyl)-4-phenyl-4H-1,2,4-triazole-3-thiols as cholinesterase inhibitors

The research was aimed to unravel the enzymatic potential of sequentially transformed new triazoles by chemically converting 4-methoxybenzoic acid via Fischer's esterification to 4-methoxybenzoate which underwent hydrazinolysis and the corresponding hydrazide (1) was cyclized with phenyl isothiocyanate (2) via 2-(4-methoxybenzoyl)-N-phenylhydrazinecarbothioamide (3); an intermediate to 5-(4-methoxyphenyl)-4-phenyl-4H-1,2,4-triazol-3-thiol (4). The electrophiles; alkyl halides 5(a-g) were further reacted with nucleophilic S-atom to attain a series of S-alkylated 5-(4-methoxyphenyl)-4-phenyl-4H-1,2,4-triazole-3-thiols 6(a-g). Characterization of synthesized compounds was accomplished by contemporary spectral techniques such as FT-IR, 1H-NMR, 13C-NMR and EI-MS. Excellent cholinesterase inhibitory potential was portrayed by 3-(n-heptylthio)-5-(4-methoxyphenyl)-4-phenyl-4H-1,2,4-triazole; 6g against AChE (IC50; 38.35±0.62μM) and BChE (IC50; 147.75±0.67μM) enzymes. Eserine (IC50; 0.04±0.01μM) was used as reference standard. Anti-proliferative activity results ascertained that derivative encompassing long straight chain substituted at S-atom of the moiety was the most potent with 4.96 % cell viability (6g) at 25μM and with 2.41% cell viability at 50μMamong library of synthesized derivatives. In silico analysis also substantiated the bioactivity statistics.

Striving for Self-sustainability: Case of a Pakistani NGO

Towards the end of 2013, Edwin Samson, the Chief Coordinator of Adult Basic Education Society Teacher Empowerment Centre (ABES-TEC), a non-profit, non-sectarian NGO promoting quality education in the private and the public schools of Pakistan, began to reflect in earnest over ways to make the organization self-sustainable. ABES-TEC was responsible for implementing different projects initiated by local as well as international donors. Due to a reliance on donor funding, Samson had recently downsized the NGO workforce yet again. This was a course of action that he had been unwilling to undertake as he felt that abrupt downsizing would demotivate all the NGO employees and adversely affect their work performance. In order to retain employees, ABES-TEC had to strive for self-sustainability rather than depending solely on arbitrary project funding.

Synthesis of some new biologically active N-substituted-2''- [(phenylsulfonyl)(piperidin-1-yl)amino]acetamide derivatives

A new series of N-aryl/aralkyl substitued-2"-[(phenylsulfonyl)(piperidin-1-yl)amino]acetamide (7a-k) was synthesized. These derivatives were geared up by the pairing of benzenesulfonyl chloride (4) with 1-aminopiperidine (5) under dynamic pH control in aqueous media to afford parent compound N-(Piperidin-1-yl) benzenesulfonamide (6), followed by the substitution at nitrogen atom with different electrophiles N-aryl/aralkyl-substituted-2-bromoacetamides (3a-k) in the presence of sodium hydride (NaH) and N,N-Dimethylformamide (DMF) to give a new series of N-substituted derivatives of acetamide (7a-k) bearing piperidine moiety. All the synthesized compounds were confirmed on the basis of IR, EIMS and (1)H-NMR spectral data. The synthesized compounds were evaluated against acetylcholinesterase and butyrylcholinesterase (AChE and BChE) respectively and lipoxygenase (LOX) enzymes. Almost all the synthesized compounds displayed promising activity but few of them remained inactive against lipoxygenase enzymes.

Dual Wavelength RP-HPLC Method for Simultaneous Determination of Two Antispasmodic Drugs: An Application in Pharmaceutical and Human Serum

A reverse phase stability indicating HPLC method for simultaneous determination of two antispasmodic drugs in pharmaceutical parenteral dosage forms (injectable) and in serum has been developed and validated. Mobile phase ingredients consist of Acetonitrile : buffer : sulfuric acid 0.1 M (50 : 50 : 0.3 v/v/v), at flow rate 1.0 mL/min using a Hibar μ Bondapak ODS C18 column monitored at dual wavelength of 266 nm and 205 nm for phloroglucinol and trimethylphloroglucinol, respectively. The drugs were subjected to stress conditions of hydrolysis (oxidation, base, acid, and thermal degradation). Oxidation degraded the molecule drastically while there was not so much significant effect of other stress conditions. The calibration curve was linear with a correlation coefficient of 0.9999 and 0.9992 for PG and TMP, respectively. The drug recoveries fall in the range of 98.56% and 101.24% with 10 pg/mL and 33 pg/mL limit of detection and limit of quantification for both phloroglucinol and trimethylphloroglucinol. The method was validated in accordance with ICH guidelines and was applied successfully to quantify the amount of trimethylphloroglucinol and phloroglucinol in bulk, injectable form and physiological fluid. Forced degradation studies proved the stability indicating abilities of the method.

Synthesis of biologically active O-substituted derivatives of 1-[(3, 5-dichloro-2-hydroxyphenyl)sulfonyl]piperidine

In the present work, a series of 2-O-substituted derivatives of 1-[(3,5-dichloro-2-hydroxy phenyl) sulfonyl]piperidine (5a-j) were synthesized. These derivatives were geared up by the coupling of 3,5-dichloro-2-hydroxy benzenesulfonyl chloride (1) with piperidine (2) under dynamic pH control in aqueous media to form parent compound 1-[(3,5-dichloro-2-hydroxyphenyl)sulfonyl]piperidine (3), followed by the substitution at oxygen atom with different electrophiles (4a-j) in the presence of sodium hydride (NaH) and dimethyl formamide (DMF) to give a series of O-substituted derivatives of sulfonamides bearing piperidine nucleus 5a-j. The synthesized O-substituted sulfonamides were spectrally characterized. The bioactivity of all the synthesized compounds were evaluated against lipoxygenase (LOX), acetylcholinesterae (AChE) and butyrylcholinesterase (BChE) enzymes and found to be having talented activity against butyrylcholinesterase enzyme.

[Association of fallopian tube cancer and polymyositis. Apropos of 1 case]

A 51-year-old woman consulted for pelvic pain, metrorrhagia and leukorrhea. Physical examination revealed a renitent and mobile mass in the pelvis. A right lateral uterine mass with hydroxalpinx was found at ultrasonography. Pathology examination of the right annexectomy specimen provided the definitive diagnosis: fallopian tube cancer with polymyositis. No residual tumor was found at total hysterectomy with total bilateral annexectomy. The patient was lost to follow-up for three years without complementary treatment then consulted later for functional disability of the upper then lower limbs with myalgia, swallowing disorders and left supraclavian node enlargement resulting from pelvic relapse of the right fallopian tube adenocarcinoma and left supraclavian metastasis with paraneoplastic polymositis. The patient was given 6 courses of chemotherapy with radiotherapy (45 Gy) centered on the left clavian region. The patient exhibited a spectacular response, and remains in complete remission 50 months after diagnosis. The association of a fallopian tube tumor with polymyositis is exceptional, requiring rapid anticancer treatment effective against the cancer and the paraneoplastic polymyositis.

[Safety of meningococcal A and C vaccine. Data from the Spanish drug surveillance system. Meningococcal Vaccine Research Group of the Spanish System of Drug Surveillance]

OBJECTIVE

Data on meningococcal vaccines safety are scanty. In 1997 several vaccination campaign took place in Spain. Thus, this situation was used to improve our knowledge about the safety profile of this vaccine.

METHODS

An inquiry was carried out to the Regional Centers of the Spanish Pharmacovigilance System to know the number of vaccinated people and the type and number of suspected cases of adverse reactions.

RESULTS

There were 133 identified cases of suspected adverse reactions associated with meningococcal A and C vaccine until June 1st, 1998. Most of them affected the skin (25,3%) or nervous system (similar proportion). Those of allergic reactions accounted for 35,2%. Two cases were considered as severe, although they were resolved without secuelae.

CONCLUSIONS

Serious risks were not detected. The Spanish Pharmacosurveillance System as an epidemiological surveillance resource has been useful to know the safety problems associated with antimeningococcal vaccine in the community.

Immunohistochemical analysis of metallothionein in astrocytic tumors in relation to tumor grade, proliferative potential, and survival

BACKGROUND

Metallothionein (MT) is the name for a family of predominantly intracellular protein thiol compounds involved in anticancer drug resistance. For certain tumors, MT is related to grade of tumor malignancy and prognosis. The authors evaluated the expression of MT in 114 astrocytic tumors in relation to the proliferative potential of tumors and the survival of patients.

METHODS

Paraffin embedded tissue sections were stained with monoclonal anti-metallothionein and MIB-1 Ki-67 antibodies by avidin-biotin complex immunohistochemistry.

RESULTS

MT expression was observed in 2 of 6 pilocytic astrocytomas, in 10 of 24 Grade 2 astrocytomas, in 16 of 25 anaplastic astrocytomas, and in 47 of 59 glioblastomas. In addition to the tumor cells, microvascular endothelial proliferation and smooth muscle of tumor vessel walls were frequently MT positive. The glioblastomas had a significantly higher percentage of MT positive cells compared with low grade (P < 0.0001) and anaplastic (P < 0.04) astrocytomas. MT expression in astrocytomas had no correlation with tumor recurrence. The mean Ki-67 labeling index (LI) was significantly higher in the high grade (3-4) compared with the low grade (1-2) astrocytomas. MT positive astrocytic tumors had statistically significantly higher mean Ki-67 LI compared with MT negative tumors, irrespective of histologic grade. Although the levels of MT and Ki-67 LI varied in individual tumors, the mean Ki-67 LI increased in parallel to the increasing MT staining grade, and this difference attained statistical significance only for glioblastoma. MT positive anaplastic astrocytoma and glioblastoma patients did not survive as long as the MT negative patients, although this difference attained statistical significance only for anaplastic astrocytoma.

CONCLUSIONS

The current study suggests that MT might play a significant role in the growth of astrocytic tumors, with an acquired enhanced ability to produce MT as the malignant potential of a tumor increases.

Role of UEV-1A, a homologue of the tumor suppressor protein TSG101, in protection from DNA damage

The open reading frame YGL087c in the budding yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae genome encodes a polypeptide highly similar to the human UEV (ubiquitin-conjugating E2 enzyme variant) proteins, which have been proposed to belong to a family of putative dominant negative ubiquitin regulators. Deletion of the YGL087c open reading frame yields viable cells which are sensitive to UV irradiation or methyl methanesulfonate, but not to hydroxyurea. This phenotype is reminiscent of that of rad mutants and suggests that the YGL087c-encoded protein functions in a process related to tolerance to DNA damage. We also show that the mutant phenotype is fully complemented by expression of the human UEV-1A cDNA and we propose that UEV-1 proteins could also have a role in protecting higher eukaryotic cells from DNA damaging agents.

Immunohistochemical analysis of progesterone receptor and Ki-67 labeling index in astrocytic tumors

BACKGROUND

Intracranial tumors such as meningiomas express steroid hormone receptors but little is known regarding progesterone receptor (PR) in astrocytic tumors. The authors evaluated expression of PR in 86 astrocytic tumors in relation to tumor proliferative potential.

METHODS

Paraffin embedded tumor sections were stained with polyclonal antiprogesterone antibody by the peroxidase-antiperoxidase method and with monoclonal MIB-1-Ki-67 antibody by avidin-biotin complex immunohistochemistry.

RESULTS

Sixty-three of the 86 astrocytic tumors (73%) showed positive PR immunoreactivity. PR expression was observed in 4 of 9 pilocytic astrocytomas, 13 of 24 Grade 2 astrocytomas, 15 of 20 anaplastic astrocytomas, and 31 of 33 glioblastomas. In addition to the tumor cells, cells of microvascular endothelial proliferation and the smooth muscle of tumor vessel walls were frequently PR positive. Glioblastomas had a significantly higher percentage of PR positive cells compared with anaplastic (P < 0.0008) and low grade (P < 0.0001) astrocytomas. Patients with PR positive astrocytomas were of an older age than patients with PR negative astrocytomas (48.71 +/- 21.95 years vs. 37.09 +/- 24.69 years; P < 0.04). The mean Ki-67 labeling index (LI) was significantly higher in the high grade (3-4) astrocytomas compared with low grade (1-2) astrocytomas (P < 0.0001). PR positive astrocytic tumors had higher Ki-67 LI than PR negative tumors. PR expression was not correlated with tumor recurrence and patient survival.

CONCLUSIONS

The current study suggests that PR in the astrocytic tumors correlates with histologic grade and PR may participate in the growth of these tumors and tumor angiogenesis. The measurement of PR in these tumors may indirectly represent tumor growth potential.

Effect of tumor necrosis factor-alpha on the permeability of bovine brain microvessel endothelial cell monolayers

The administration of chemotherapy to patients with tumors of the central nervous system is often blocked by the blood-brain barrier. Tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) is a cytokine that promotes vascular permeability in addition to its pro-inflammatory effects. However, no direct evidence exists as to whether TNF-alpha may increase permeability of the BBB. We evaluated the effect of TNF-alpha on the transport of cisplatin (CDDP) or high molecular weight dextran labeled with fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC-dextran) across bovine brain microvessel endothelial cell (BMEC) monolayers that was conducted on side-by-side diffusion chambers in vitro. The permeability coefficient for the transport of CDDP across the untreated monolayer was 3.80 x 10(-5) cm sec-1 at 30 minutes. After treating the BMEC monolayer with TNF-alpha (50 U ml-1 and 500 U ml-1) for 36 hours, the PC of CDDP increased significantly to 8.94 x 10(-5), and 14.43 x 10(-5) cm sec-1 respectively (p < 0.01). TNF-alpha had no effect on the transport of FITC-dextran across the BMEC monolayers. Electron microscopy showed that the tight junctions between the BMECs persisted even after treatment with TNF-alpha, whereas they had been partially disrupted following exposure to mannitol, 1600 mOsm kg-1. TNF-alpha selectively promoted the in vitro permeability of the blood-brain barrier to CDDP without disrupting tight junctions. This system could be used as a model for experimental studies of chemotherapy. Findings suggested that the combined administration of TNF-alpha and CDDP may be clinically useful.