Caffeine-folic acid-loaded-chitosan nanoparticles combined with methotrexate as a novel HepG2 immunotherapy targeting adenosine A2A receptor downstream cascade

BACKGROUND

Methotrexate (MTX) is a common chemotherapeutic drug that inhibits DNA synthesis and induces apoptosis. Treatment with MTX increased CD73 expression, which leads to higher levels of extracellular adenosine. Adenosine levels are also high in the tumor microenvironment through Cancer cells metabolism. That promotes the survival of cancer cells and contributes to tumor immune evasion through the Adenosine 2a Receptor. A2A receptor antagonists are an emerging class of agents that treat cancers by enhancing immunotherapy, both as monotherapy and in combination with other therapeutic agents. Caffeine is an adenosine receptor antagonist. Herein, we demonstrate the ability of a novel well prepared and characterized nano formula CAF-FA-CS-NPs (D4) for A2aR blockade when combination with MTX to improve its antitumor efficacy by enhancing the immune system and eliminating immune suppression.

METHODS

CAF-FA-CS-NPs (D4) were prepared and characterized for particle size, loading efficiency, and release profile. Molecular docking was used to validate the binding affinity of caffeine and folic acid to A2A receptor. The effects of the nano formula were evaluated on human liver cancer cells (HepG2), breast cancer cells (MCF-7), and MDA-MB-231, as well as normal human cells (WI-38). Different combination ratios of MTX and D4 were studied to identify the optimal combination for further genetic studies.

RESULTS

Molecular docking results validated that caffeine and folic acid have binding affinity to A2A receptor. The CS-NPs were successfully prepared using ionic gelation method, with caffeine and folic acid being loaded and conjugated to the nanoparticles through electrostatic interactions. The CAF loading capacity in D4 was 77.9 ± 4.37% with an encapsulation efficiency of 98.5 ± 0.37. The particle size was optimized through ratio variations. The resulting nanoparticles were fully characterized. The results showed that (D4) had antioxidant activity and cytotoxicity against different cancer cells. The combination of D4 with MTX (IC50 D4 + 0.5 IC50 MTX) resulted in the downregulation of Bcl-2, FOXP3, CD39, and CD73 gene expression levels and upregulation of Bax and A2AR gene expression levels in HepG2 cells.

CONCLUSIONS

This study suggests that CAF-FA-CS-NPs (D4) in combination with MTX may be a promising candidate for cancer immunotherapy, by inhibiting A2aR signaling and leading to improved immune activation and anti-tumor activity of MTX.

Comparative study between two different morphological structures based on polylactic acid, nanocellulose and magnetite for co-delivery of flurouracil and curcumin

Cellulose was extracted from mango fibers and subjected to acid hydrolysis to obtain a nanofiber. Two morphological structures based on the polylactic acid (PLA)/nanocellulose (NC) combination have been synthesized and Fe₃O₄ NPs (M) are incorporated into both combinations. The first formulation is obtained by blending technique (PLA/M-NC) and the second formulation is obtained by self-assembly of grafted copolymer (M-PLA-co-NC). The magnetic nanocomposites are used as carriers for 5-fluorouracil (5-FU), an anti-cancer drug, and curcumin (CUR) to get PLA/M-NC/5-FU/CUR and M-PLA-co-NC/5-FU/CUR. The structural, morphological, and magnetic properties of the obtained nanocomposites were characterized by various techniques. The loading, release of 5-FU/CUR and the inhibition efficacy of nanocarriers loaded drugs against bacteria, HePG-2, MCF-7, and HCT-116 cell lines were studied. The two morphological forms of nanocarriers are considered close in loading % of 5-FU; however, the M-PLA-co-NC nanocarrier loaded double the loading % of CUR into PLA/M-NC nanocarrier, revealing superiority of copolymeric micelle than the blended formulation. The dual drugs loaded magnetic copolymeric micelles M-PLA-co-NC/5-FU/CUR revealed slower release, higher antibacterial and antitumor efficacy than the PLA/M-NC/5-FU/CUR. In this respect, the M-PLA-co-NC/5-FU/CUR could be considered a good nanomedicine against Streptococcus, Bacillus subtilis, Klebsiella pneumonia and Escherichia coli bacteria, besides the investigated cell lines.

Dengue fever as a reemerging disease in upper Egypt: Diagnosis, vector surveillance and genetic diversity using RT-LAMP assay

Background

The recent increase in dengue virus (DENV) outbreaks and the absence of an effective vaccine have highlighted the importance of developing rapid and effective diagnostic surveillance tests and mosquito-based screening programs. To establish effective control measures for preventing future DENV transmission, the present study was established to identify the main mosquito vector involved in the dengue fever (DF) outbreak in Upper Egypt in 2016 and detect the diversity of dengue virus serotypes circulating in both humans and vectors.

Methods

We investigated the prevalence of DENV infection and circulating serotypes in the sera of 51 humans clinically suspected of DF and 1800 field-collected Aedes aegypti adult female mosquitoes grouped into 36 pooled samples. Both DENV non-structural protein (NS1) immunochromatographic strip assay and loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) were used for screening.

Results

Overall, the rate of DENV infection in both human sera and pooled mosquito homogenate was 33.3%, as revealed by rapid dipstick immunochromatographic analysis. However, higher detection rates were observed with RT-LAMP assay of 60.8% and 44.4% for humans and vector mosquitoes, respectively. DENV-1 was the most prevalent serotype in both populations. A combination of two, three, or even four circulating serotypes was found in 87.5% of total positive pooled mosquito samples and 83.87% of DENV-positive human sera.

Conclusion

The study reinforces the evidence of the reemergence of Aedes aegypti in Upper Egypt, inducing an outbreak of DENV. Mosquito-based surveillance of DENV infection is important to elucidate the viral activity rate and define serotype diversity to understand the virus dynamics in the reinfested area. Up to our knowledge, this is the first report of serotyping of DENV infection in an outbreak in Egypt using RT-LAMP assay.

The Effects of Commercially Available Syzygium aromaticum, Anethum graveolens, Lactobacillus acidophilus LB, and Zinc as Alternatives Therapy in Experimental Mice Challenged with Cryptosporidium parvum

BACKGROUND

Waterborne cryptosporidiosis is the second cause of diarrhea in young children and immunocompromised hosts after rotavirus. Except for nitazoxanide (NTZ), there is no accredited cryptosporidiosis treatment to date. Therefore, there is an urgent need to find an effective and safe treatment for cryptosporidiosis. This study aimed to investigate the possible anti-protozoal effects of Syzygium aromaticum (clove) oil, Anethum graveolens (dill) seeds oil, Lactobacillus acidophilus LB, and zinc against Cryptosporidium parvum in comparison to NTZ.

METHODS

Besides the negative control, mice from six experimental groups (T1-T6) were infected with Cryptosporidium parvum oocysts. On the seventh day post-infection (PID), mice from five groups were treated for 8 consecutive days with NTZ, clove oil, dill seed oil, Lactobacillus acidophilus LB, and zinc commercial forms (T2-T5). Oocysts shedding rate, differences of mice body weight, serum IL10, and TNF-α, cryptosporidial antigen, and cd3 at the intestinal mucosa were evaluated at the end of the experiment.

RESULTS

The mean of the C. parvum oocysts' shedding rate was significantly lower in all treated groups than in the non-treated group. The oocysts reduction rate was the highest in zinc-treated mice (98.3%), Lactobacillus acidophilus LB and dill-treated groups (95.77%), and the NTZ-treated group (91.55%). Clove oil was the least effective, with a 74.65% reduction rate. Excluding the clove oil-treated group, immunohistochemical analysis revealed the clearance of the Cryptosporidium antigen in the intestinal tissue in all treated groups.

CONCLUSION

The study has provided a rational basis for using these safe, cheap, and commercially available alternatives in treating cryptosporidiosis combined with NTZ.

The protective effect of Lactobacillus acidophilus on experimental animals challenged with Trichinella spiralis; new insights on their feasibility as prophylaxis in Trichinella spiralis endemic area

Trichinellosis is a common parasitic zoonosis. Complications of anthelmintic drugs combined with steroids raise the urge of alternative protective ways. The study aimed to investigate the protective effects of Lactobacillus acidophilus probiotic on both Trichinella spiralis adults and larvae in experimental animal models. Thirty-six male BALB/c mice were divided into 3 groups: negative control Group (G I); Group (G II) mice were inoculated orally by 500 Trichinella spiralis larvae; tested Group (G III) mice were prophylactic by an oral dose of Lactobacillus acidophilus in commercially available form for seven consecutive days, before infection. Mature worms and encysted larvae were counted on the 5th and 21st day post-infection (dpi), respectively. IL-1, IL-6, IL-10 and TNF-α concentrations were estimated at 5th and 21st dpi of all groups. Significant reductions in mean worms and larvae burden were detected by 62.1% and 73.5% in the prophylactic group compared to the non-prophylactic group. The cytokine profiles were revealed IL-1 and IL-6 up-regulation compared to IL-10 and TNF-α down-regulation in the tested group compared to other groups. Although Lactobacillus acidophilus failed to achieve complete eradication of Trichinella spiralis adults and larvae, it showed powerful effects in reducing parasites and cytokines burdens.

Evidences of brain and lung invasion of a local water Cryptosporidium parvum isolate in comparison to Iowa strain: serological and immunohistochemical cytokine evaluation

Cryptosporidium spp. is an obligate intracellular parasite that has become a community threat. The pathological consequences of cryptosporidiosis vary not only in different Cryptosporidium species but even among different isolates of the same species. The present study aimed to track the serological and immunohistopathological differences between animals infected by Cryptosporidium parvum "Iowa isolate" (CPI) and Cryptosporidium parvum "water isolate" isolated from a local water supply in Assiut Governorate, Egypt (CPW). Three experimental groups were encountered: negative control group (C), the CPI group and the CPW group; each contains ten Swiss albino mice. Serum cytokine: IL10 and TNF-α were measured. Expression of Cryptosporidium antigen and CD3 in the intestinal, pulmonary and brain tissue were evaluated through immunohistochemical assay. IL10 and TNF-α were elevated in both infected groups, over expression of Cryptosporidium protein and CD3 in the intestinal, pulmonary and brain tissue in CPW infected group compared to Iowa infected one. Multi-organs affection occurred in the CPW indicating more severe pathogenicity and virulence than standard Iowa isolate. The local C. parvum isolate was more virulent than tested Iowa isolate as it spread extra-intestinally to reach brain tissue.

Impact of copeptin, miRNA-499 and miRNA-208 as new biomarkers for early detection of acute coronary syndrome

Introduction

Acute coronary syndrome (ACS) is a leading cause of mortality and morbidity worldwide. Despite being the gold standard biomarkers, cTn and CK-MB have a major drawback as they are less sensitive in the first 3 hours of the onset of symptom. So, there is still a need for novel biomarkers, which can reliably rule in or rule out this disease immediately on admission.

Aim of the work

To evaluate the role of copeptin, miRNA-499 and miRNA-208 as novel biomarkers for early detection of unstable angina (UA) and non-ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI) Patients and Methods: A total of 65 patients presenting within 4 h of onset of chest pain suggestive of ACS were enrolled in the study. They included 23 UA, 42 NSTEMI. Also 25 apparently healthy controls were included. Blood samples (first set within the first 3 hours and second set at 6 hours) were taken for estimation of copeptin by ELISA and miRNA-499 and miRNA-208 expression levels by real time PCR.

Results

Copeptin, miRNA-499 and miRNA-208 expression levels were significantly increased in UA and NSTEMI patients compared to controls (P<0.001 each). Also these biomarkers were significantly increased in NSTEMT compared to UA (P<0.001 each). They also significantly elevated in UA and NSTEMI patient in the first 3 hours who had negative cardiac troponin (p<0.001 each). ROC curve analysis revealed that the area under curve (AUC) for prediction of ACS was 0.96 for copeptin, 0.97 for miRNA-499 and 0.0.97 for miRNA-208. Interestingly, combining copeptin with miRNA-499 and miRNA-210 significantly improved the diagnostic value by increasing the AUC to 0.98, P<0.001. The sensitivity and specificity within the first 3 hours were 90%, 86% for copeptin, 95%, 94% for miRNA-499 and 93%, 98% for miRNA-208. The sensitivity and specificity were 81% and 86% for cardiac troponin within 6 hours. There was a positive correlation between copeptin and miRNA-499 and miRNA-208 (r=0.75, P<0.001 and r=0.76, P<0.001 respectively) Also, there was a positive correlation between these biomarkers and cTn (r=0.7. P<0.001, r=0.64, P<0.001 and r=0.68, P<0.001 respectively).

Conclusions

Copeptin, miRNA-499 and miRNA-208 expression might be novel biomarkers as they are associated with UA and NSTEMI presented in the first 3 hours of onset of pain. The combination of copeptin and miRNA with cTn accelerate the diagnosis of ACS and avoiding the gray zone of cTn. Copeptin and miRNAs representing a potential aid in early diagnosis as they have different pathogenesis and site of liberation.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding source: None

AB0456 ROLE OF CYTOKINES (INTERLEUKIN 17 AND 23) IN PSYCHIATRIC COMORBIDITIES ASSOCIATED WITH BECHET’S DISEASE

Background:

Behcet’s disease (BD) is a chronic multi-systemic autoinflammatory disease associated with increase prevalence of psychiatric comorbidity(Ilhan et al. 2016). Pro-inflammatory cytokines have been reported to be elevated in patients with depression and anxiety. IL-23/IL-17 axis has been shown to play a remarkable role in pathogenesis of BD, depression and anxiety(Sugita et al. 2012, Gheita et al. 2015). However, the relation between the serum level of interleukin (IL)-17 and IL-23 and incidence of cognitive impairment, depression and anxiety in Behcet patients are still unknown.

Objectives:

To evaluate the serum levels of IL-17 and IL-23 in Egyptian patients with BD and evaluate the correlations between the level of inflammatory cytokines and psychiatric manifestations as cognitive impairment, depression and anxiety.

Methods:

Study design and recruitment

In a case control study, we recruited 45 BD patients, who fulfilled the modified International Criteria for Behçet’s Disease(ITR-ICBD 2014) from the Rheumatology and Rehabilitation Department, Assiut University hospital. Thirty apparently healthy sex and age matched subjects were recruited, served as controls. This study was approved by the Ethical Committee of the Assiut University, Egypt. Informed consent was obtained from all participants.

Study methodology

All patients and controls were assessed for cognitive impairment, depression and anxiety using memory assessment scale, Hamilton depression rating scale and Hamilton anxiety rating scale respectively.

Serum level of proinflammatory cytokines such as IL-17 and IL-23 were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELIZA).

Results:

Psychiatric manifestations

BD has significant lower score in all components of MAS and high prevalence of depression and anxiety in HDRS and HARS respectively compared with control group (p <0.001). Severe depression was found in 82.9% of BD patients. Moreover, our data showed 46.7% of BD patients have moderate anxiety compared to the control group.

Serum Levels of IL-17 and IL-23

The serum level of IL-17 and IL-23 levels were significantly higher among BD patients than in healthy control (<0.000).

There was no significant correlation between those cytokines and cognitive impairment, depression and anxiety.

Conclusion:

Elevated level of IL-17 and IL-23 were observed in BD patients. However, our results do not support an association between serum IL-17 and IL-23 levels and cognitive dysfunction, depression and anxiety.

References:

[1]Gheita, T. A., S. M. Gamal, I. Shaker, H. S. El Fishawy, R. El Sisi, O. G. Shaker and S. A. Kenawy (2015). “Clinical significance of serum interleukin-23 and A/G gene (rs17375018) polymorphism in Behcets disease: Relation to neuro-Behcet, uveitis and disease activity.” Joint Bone Spine 82(3): 213-215.

[2]Ilhan, B., M. Can, F. Alibaz-Oner, S. Yilmaz-Oner, O. Polat-Korkmaz, G. Ozen, G. Mumcu, H. Maradit Kremers and H. Direskeneli (2016). “Fatigue in patients with Behcet’s syndrome: relationship with quality of life, depression, anxiety, disability and disease activity.” Int J Rheum Dis.

[3]ITR-ICBD (2014). “The International Criteria for Behcet’s Disease (ICBD): a collaborative study of 27 countries on the sensitivity and specificity of the new criteria.” J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol 28(3): 338-347.

[4]Sugita, S., Y. Kawazoe, A. Imai, Y. Yamada, S. Horie and M. Mochizuki (2012). “Inhibition of Th17 differentiation by anti-TNF-alpha therapy in uveitis patients with Behcet’s disease.” Arthritis Res Ther 14(3): R99.

Disclosure of Interests: :

None declared

Anti-Toxoplasma IgG Level in Type 2 Diabetic Patients: Does It Affect Glycemic Control?

Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) is an important opportunistic parasite which can leads to severe complications, even death in immuno-deficient patients. Diabetes is a systemic disease; considers an important factor that increases susceptibility and risk of various infections in the host by affecting the host's immune system. The aim of the current study was to determine possible relations between toxoplasma IgG antibodies titer and the level of glycemic control and vascular complications in type 2 diabetic patients. In this case control study, serum for 122 samples was analyzed using ELISA for the presence of anti-Toxoplasma- IgG-antibodies (Abs) in both type 2 diabetic patients (62) and controls (60). A1c titer (level of diabetic control) was estimated in all diabetic cases. Full history and examination were performed after all contributors' consents. Anti-Toxoplasma IgG-Abs were detected in 56.45 % of diabetic patients and in 36.67% of the controls. Toxoplasmosis was significantly found more prevalent in diabetics associated with hypertension than controls (P=0.005). Among diabetics, patients with positive anti T. gondii IgG have significant long duration of diabetes versus those with negative anti T. gondii IgG (7.14±2.962 vs.3.26±1.583 years, respectively; P < 0.001). No relations were found between types of diabetic vascular complication, level of glycemic control based on HbA1c level and occurrence of toxoplasmosis. We concluded that despite of high prevalence of anti T. gondii IgG in diabetic patients, it has no relation to diabetic complication and glycemic control.

Antiprotozoal activity of silver nanoparticles against Cryptosporidium parvum oocysts: New insights on their feasibility as a water disinfectant

Cryptosporidium is a protozoan of extremely medical and veterinary impact; whose oocysts donate a considerable resistant to the water treatment processes. Therefore, this study aimed to explore the impacts of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) on count and viability of the Cryptosporidium parvum (CP) isolated from different tap water samples. The oocysts were exposed to AgNPs at different dosages of 0.05, 0.1 and 1 ppm for several contact times (30 min to 4 h). The results showed a significant decrease in oocyst count and viability in a dose-dependent manner. Additionally, AgNPs at a conc. of 1 ppm for 30 min and 0.1 ppm for 1 h reduced the oocysts by 97.2 and 94.4%, respectively. Comparatively, there was a noticeable increase in the oocyst's viability at 2 and 4 h, which emphasized that the time of contact between AgNPs and CP was not a major influencing factor for successful application of AgNPs in the nano-water treatment.

Virulence of geographically different Cryptosporidium parvum isolates in experimental animal model

Cryptosporidium parvum is a coccidian parasite which causes gastrointestinal disease in humans and a variety of other mammalian species. Several studies have reported different degrees of pathogenicity and virulence among Cryptosporidium species and isolates of the same species as well as evidence of variation in host susceptibility to infection. The study aimed to investigate infectivity and virulence of two Cryptosporidium parvum “Iowa isolate” (CpI) and a “local water isolate” (CpW). Thirty-three Swiss albino mice have been divided into three groups: Negative control Group (C), the CpI group infected with “Iowa isolate “and the CpW group infected with C. parvum oocysts isolated from a local water supply. Infectivity and virulence have been measured by evaluating clinical, parasitological and histological aspects of infection. Significant differences were detected regarding oocysts shedding rate, clinical outcomes, and the histopathological picture of the intestine, lung, and brain. It was concluded that the local water isolate is significantly more virulent than the exported one.

Ni(II), Pd(II) and Pt(II) complexes of (1H-1,2,4-triazole-3-ylimino)methyl]naphthalene-2-ol. Structural, spectroscopic, biological, cytotoxicity, antioxidant and DNA binding

Metal complexes of the general formula [ML(H2O)Cl]nH2O; n=1 for M=Ni and Pt and n=2 for M=Pd, L=Schiff base (HL) derived from the condensation of 3-amino-1,2,4-triazole and 2-hydroxy-1-naphthaldehyde, were prepared. The synthesized ligand and its metal complexes were characterized on the basis of elemental analyses, spectral and magnetic studies as well as thermal analysis. The IR spectra revealed that the ligand is coordinated to the metal ions in bidentate manner via the N-atom of the azomethine group and the phenolic OH group. Square planar geometry was proposed for Pd(II) and Pt(II) complexes and tetrahedral for Ni(II) complex. The ligand and its metal complexes were screened against the sensitive organisms Escherichia coli as Gram-negative bacteria, Staphylococcus aureus as Gram-positive bacteria, Aspergillus flavus and Candida albicans as fungi. Moreover, the anticancer activity of the ligand and its metal complexes was evaluated in liver carcinoma (HEPG2) cell line. The results obtained indicated that the Schiff base ligand is more effective than its metal complexes towards the tested cell line. Ni(II), Pd(II) and Pt(II) complexes as well as the free Schiff base ligand were tested for their antioxidant activities. The DNA-binding properties of the studied complexes have been investigated by electronic absorption and viscosity measurements.

Studies on chalcone derivatives: complex formation, thermal behavior, stability constant and antioxidant activity

The chalcone 3-[4'-dimethylaminophenyl]-1-(2-pyridyl) prop-2-en-1-one (DMAPP) and 3-(4'-diethylaminophenyl)-1-(2-pyridinyl) prop-2-en-1-one abbreviated as DEAPP have been synthesized and characterized with IR, (1)H NMR, (13)C NMR spectroscopic techniques as described previously (El-Daly et al., 2008; Gaber et al., 2009; El-Sayed, 2013). By using UV visible spectroscopy method the mole fraction ratio for copper with DMAPP and DEAPP complexes were determined and it was found to be 1:1. The stability constants of this complex have been determined by Job's method. The stability constant (Kf) of copper with DMAPP and DEAPP complexes in universal buffer pH=3.2 was determined to be 9.9×10(4) and 5.2×10(4) respectively. The effect of Cu(II) ion on the emission spectrum of the free chalcone is also assigned. Adherence to Beer's law and Ringbom optimum concentration ranges are determined. The thermal decomposition of the metal complexes is studied by TGA technique. The kinetic parameters like activation energy, pre-exponential factor and entropy of activation are estimated. The structure of complexes was energetically optimized through molecular mechanics applying MM(+) force field coupled with molecular dynamics simulation. The bond lengths and bond angles have been calculated to confirm the geometry of the ligands and their Cu(II) complexes. The mode of interaction of the chalcone to copper nanoparticles was studied. The apparent association constants of the colloidal copper nanoparticles:chalcone complexes in solution were evaluated using the spectral method and compared with the formation constant of the Cu(II) chalcone complexes. Antioxidant activity of these chalcones was evaluated by using 1,1'-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radicals scavenging method, which showed that the antioxidant activity of DMAPP has higher value than the DEAPP. Semi-empirical study results showed that DMAPP have higher dipole moment than DEAPP.

Complex formation, thermal behavior and stability competition between Cu(II) ion and Cu(0) nanoparticles with some new azo dyes. Antioxidant and in vitro cytotoxic activity

Four triazole and thiadiazole-based azo chromophores namely [(E)-4-((1H-1,2,4-triazol-3-yl)diazenyl)benzene-1,3-diol.(HL(1)), (E)-4-((5-(methylthio)-1H-1,2,4-triazol-3-yl)diazenyl)benzene-1,3-diol.(HL(2)), (E)-4-((1,3,4-thiadiazol-2-yl)diazenyl)benzene-1,3-diol.(HL(3)) and (E)-4-((5-mercapto-1,3,4-thiadiazol-2-yl)diazenyl)benzene-1,3-diol.(HL(4))] were synthesized and characterized by elemental analyses, IR, UV-Vis as well as mass spectroscopy. Cu(II) complexes of the investigated azo dyes have been synthesized and characterized by elemental analyses, IR, electronic and ESR spectra, magnetic susceptibility and thermogravimetric analyses. The bond lengths and bond angles have been calculated to confirm the geometry of the ligands and their Cu(II) complexes. The mode of interaction of the azodyes to copper nanoparticles was described as coordination mode of charged dye molecules on the colloidal Cu(0) surface through anchoring OH(-) group. The apparent association constants of the colloidal copper nanoparticles azodye complexes in solution were evaluated using the spectral method and compared with the formation constant of the Cu(II) azo complexes. The antitumor and antioxidant activities of the synthesized azo dyes and their Cu(II) azo complexes have been evaluated.

Structural and fluorescence quenching characterization of hematite nanoparticles

Nanoparticles of the dominant hematite form (α-Fe(2)O(3)) of iron oxide have been prepared by a simple route of dropping FeCl(3) solution into boiling water. The nanoparticles have been characterized by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), UV-visible electronic absorption spectroscopy, chemical stoichiometry, thermal analysis methods (TGA, DSC and DTA), XRD, FTIR and magnetic susceptibility measurements. Kinetic analysis of the DSC calorigram of thermal dehydration of the nanoparticles reveals one stage of the dehydration process of energy of activation of 29.0 kJ mol(-1). The role of iron oxide nanoparticles in fluorescence quenching of coumarin thiourea derivatives (I-IV) was investigated at room temperature (296 K) by means of steady-state fluorescence spectroscopy. The quenching process was characterized by Stern-Volmer (S-V) plots which display a positive deviation from linearity. This could be explained by static and dynamic quenching models. The positive deviation in the S-V plot is interpreted in terms of ground-state complex formation model and sphere of action static quenching model. Various rate parameters for the fluorescence quenching process were determined by using the modified Stern-Volmer equation. The sphere of action static quenching model agrees very well with experimental results. Quenching constants for iron oxide nanoparticles are about four orders of magnitudes higher than quenching by Fe(3+) ions.

Kinetics of catalyzed hydrolysis of 4-methylumbelliferyl caprylate (MUCAP) salmonella reagent

The kinetics of chemical hydrolysis including neutral, acid- and base-catalyzed hydrolysis of 4-methylumbelliferyl caprylate (MUCAP) salmonella reagent were studied at different temperatures. The rate constants and activation parameters were determined by following the build-up of fluorescence peak of the hydrolysis product 4-methylumbelliferone (4-MU). The time scale of esterase enzyme hydrolysis caused by salmonella was compared with chemical hydrolysis as a background process.

Acute tubular necrosis associated with non-hemorrhagic Dengue fever: a case report

Dengue fever (DF) is an arthropod-born viral infection affecting humans. Dengue viruses are transmitted through the bites of the mosquito Aedes aegypti. Acute renal failure (ARF) is reported in patients who are affected mainly with Dengue hemorrhagic fever (DHF), which is a severe presentation of the disease. We report the case of a 24-year-old Omani female with no past history of particular medical problems. She was referred to our hospital for the further management of acute renal failure. She had clinical features of DF without DHF. The kidney biopsy showed features of acute tubular necrosis (ATN). She had a complete recovery after 25 days and required three sessions of hemodialysis. We conclude that DF even without DHF may lead to ATN and ARF. Clinicians should be aware of this etiology. Treatment is supportive and may require dialysis. The prognosis could be favorable.

Spectral and thermal studies of 4-(1H-pyrazolo (3,4-d) pyrimidin-4-ylazo) benzene-1,3-diol complexes of cobalt(II), nickel(II) and copper(II)

4-(1H-Pyrazolo (3,4-d) pyrimidin-4-ylazo) benzene-1,3-diol was synthesized and characterized by various spectral and analytical techniques. Semiempirical quantum calculations using the AM1 method have been performed in order to evaluate the geometry and electronic structure of the title azodye in the ground state. The complex formation between Co(II), Ni(II) and Cu(II) ions and the title azodye was studied conductometrically and spectrophotometrically. The spectrophotometric determination of the title metal ions and titration using EDTA are reported. Co(II), Ni(II) and Cu(II) complexes of the title azodye have been synthesized and characterized by elemental analysis, conductivity, magnetic susceptibility, IR, UV-Vis and thermal analysis (TGA and DTA).The spectral and magnetic data suggested the octahedral geometry for Co(II) and Ni(II) complexes while Cu(II) complexes have square planar geometry. The thermal studies confirmed the chemical formulations of the title complexes. The thermal degradation takes place in two or three steps depending on the type of the metal and the geometry of the complexes. The kinetics of the decomposition was examined by using Coats-Redfern relation. The activation energies and other activation parameters (DeltaH, DeltaS and DeltaG) were computed and related to the bonding and stereochemistry of the complexes.

Spectral properties and inclusion of a hetero-chalcone analogue in organized media of micellar solutions and beta-cyclodextrin

The absorption and fluorescence emission spectral properties of 3-(4'-dimethylaminophenyl)-1-(2-thienyl)prop-2-en-1-one, abbreviated as DMATP, have been investigated in organized media of aqueous micellar and beta-cyclodextrin (CD) solutions. While the absorption spectra are less sensitive to the nature of the added surfactant or CD, the characteristics of the intramolecular charge transfer (ICT) fluorescence are highly sensitive to the properties of the medium. The ICT maximum is strongly blue-shifted with a great enhancement in the fluorescence quantum yield on adding micellar or CD solutions. This indicates the solubilization of DMATP in the micellar core and formation of an inclusion complex with beta-CD. The critical micelle concentration (CMC) as well as the polarity of the micellar core of SDS, CTAB and TX-100 have been determined. The CMC values are in good agreement with the reported values while the polarity is lower indicating that DMATP molecules are incorporated in the micellar core not at the micellar interface. The inclusion constants of binding of DMATP in micellar or CD have been also determined. The thermodynamic parameters of formation of DMATP:CD inclusion complex have been calculated from the temperature dependence of the fluorescence spectra of the formed complex. The negative enthalpy and free energy of formation indicate that the inclusion process is energetically favorable. The highly negative value of formation entropy (DeltaS = -162.3 J mol(-1) K(-1)) reflects the high restrictions imposed on the movement of both the host and included guest molecules which is consistent with the increase of the fluorescence yield and blue shift of the fluorescence maximum.

Spectroscopic studies of 4-(4,6-dimethylpyrimidin-2-ylazo) benzene-1,3-diol and its Cu(II) complexes

The electronic absorption spectra of 4-(4,6-dimethylpyrimidin-2-ylazo)benzene-1,3-diol have been studied in organic solvents of different polarities as well as in buffer solutions of varying pH. The observed UV-vis absorption bands are assigned to the corresponding electronic transitions. The effect of methanol ratio on the pK-value is discussed. Also, semiemperical molecular orbital calculations at the AM1 level have been performed to investigate the molecular and electronic structures of the free ligand in the ground state. According to these calculations, an intramolecular hydrogen bond leads to increasing of the molecular stability. The important bands in the IR spectrum as well as the main signals in the (1)H NMR spectrum are also assigned. The interaction of Cu(II) ion with the titled azo-dye in solution is studied spectrophotometrically and conductometrically. Optimization of the various experimental conditions is also described. Beer's law is obeyed in the range 0-11.43 ppm while that obtained applying Ringbom is 1.26-6.61 ppm. The use of the titled azo-dye as an indicator for determination of Cu(II) is considered. The solid Cu(II) complexes are synthesized and characterized by spectral, magnetic, conductance and thermal studies (TGA and DTA). The results indicate the formation of 1:1 and 1:2 (M:L) complexes. The kinetic parameters (n, E, A, DeltaS, DeltaH and DeltaG) of the thermal decomposition stages were computed and discussed.

Holmium laser ablation of anterior urethral valves: case report

PURPOSE

To report a novel method for treating anterior urethral valves in children using the holmium:YAG laser.

CASE REPORT

A 2-year-old boy presented with symptoms of urinary-outflow obstruction. A micturating cystourethrogram (MCUG) revealed an abrupt narrowing of the penile urethra. At cystourethroscopy, an anterior urethral valve without a diverticulum was visible. This was ablated endoscopically using the Ho:YAG laser. The child voided successfully and was discharged the next day. Repeat MCUG 6 months later revealed a normal-caliber urethra.

CONCLUSION

Holmium:YAG laser ablation of anterior valves is a minimally invasive treatment modality that provided a satisfactory result and appears to be very promising.

Synthesis, spectral and thermal studies of Co(II), Ni(II) and Cu(II) complexes 1-(4,6-dimethyl-pyrimidin-2-ylazo)-naphthalen-2-ol

The electronic absorption spectra of 1-(4,6-dimethyl-pyrimidin-2-ylazo)-naphthalen-2-ol is studied in organic solvents of different polarity as well as in buffer solutions of varying pH values at different temperatures and different ratios of methanol. The probable structure of the azodye has been assigned on the basis of spectral studies (IR and (1)H NMR). The effect of Co(II), Ni(II) and Cu(II) ions on the emission spectrum of the free azodye is also assigned. The stoichiometry of the metal complexes is determined spectrophotometrically and conductometrically. Novel complexes of Co(II), Ni(II) and Cu(II) with the pyrimidine azodye have been synthesized and characterized on the basis of elemental analyses, molar conductance, magnetic susceptibility measurements, IR, electronic as well as ESR spectral studies The thermal decomposition of the metal complexes is studied by TGA and DTA techniques. The kinetic parameters like activation energy, pre-exponential factor and entropy of activation are estimated.

Spectrophotometric and electrical studies of charge transfer complexes of 2-amino-1,3,4-thiadiazole with pi-acceptors

Charge transfer (CT) complexes formed between 2-amino-1,3,4-thiadiazole as donor and 2,3-dichloro-5,6-dicyano-p-benzoquinone (DDQ), p-chloranil (p-CHL), o-chloranil (o-CHL), p-bromanil (BRL) and chloranilic acid (CHA) as acceptors, have been studied spectrophotometrically. Benesi-Hildebrand and Job continuous variation methods were applied to the determination of association constant (K), molar extinction coefficients (epsilon), dipole moment and stoichiometric ratio, respectively. The solid CT complexes have been synthesized and characterized by different spectral methods. The spectral changes reveal that the CT interaction depends on the type of the acceptors. The magnetic properties of the various complexes were also investigated. The electrical properties for the solid CT complexes are measured from which the activation energies are calculated.

Disposition kinetics of danofloxacin and ciprofloxacin in broiler chickens

Disposition kinetics of danofloxacin and ciprofloxacin were studied in broiler chickens following intravenous, intramuscular and oral administration in a single dose of 5 and 10 mg/kg-1 body weight respectively. In addition, tissue distribution and residual pattern of both drugs were determined. The maximum serum concentration (Cmax) after intramuscular and oral administration were 1.03 and 0.55 mu/ml for danofloxacin and 2.92 and 1.24 mu/ml for ciprofloxacin attained at 0.8 and 2.43 and 0.55 and 1.27 hours for danofloxacin and ciprofloxacin respectively. The volume of distribution and systemic bioavailability were higher for danofloxacin (Vdss 2.21 L/kg and F% 96.56 and 81.4%) as compared with ciprofloxacin (Vdss 1.41 L/kg and F% 75.5 and 29.4%). Data relating to intravenous injection for both drugs were analyzed using a two compartment open model curve fit. Danofloxacin and ciprofloxacin were not detected in the serum of broilers at the 5th and 3rd day respectively following the drugs withdrawal while were detected in liver, kidneys, spleen and lungs. Danofloxacin completely disappeared from all tissues at the 13th day after stopping of the drug medication but ciprofloxacin disappeared after 5 days only.

Role of Helicobacter pylori in the genesis of gastric ulcerations among smokers and nonsmokers

Helicobacter pylori infection was investigated by three different methods [serologically, microbiologically and biochemically] in 210 male patients aged 20-40 years. Gastric ulcers were diagnosed in 126 patients in which H. pylori infection showed a significant association X [2] = 162.8]. Smokers had a higher rate of infection than nonsmokers, both among patients with gastric ulcers [99% compared to 79%] and without. The risk of H. pylori infection was computed for different categories of smoker. Heavy cigarette smokers were found to have the highest risk, followed by moderate to mild cigarette smokers and communal shisha smokers;neither private shisha nor cigar/pipe smokers showed any significant risk

Pharmacokinetics of cyclosporine and steady-state aspirin during coadministration

Anecdotal reports from clinical trials assessing the use of cyclosporine in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis suggest an association between enhanced renal impairment and combined use of cyclosporine with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. To explore possible pharmacokinetic contributions to this phenomenon, a randomized, two-period crossover investigation was performed in 24 healthy volunteers in which a single oral dose of 300 mg cyclosporine was administered alone and on day 10 of multiple oral dosing of aspirin 960 mg three times daily. Serial blood samples were obtained over 48 hours after each cyclosporine dose and over a steady-state dosing interval for aspirin on day 9 (aspirin alone) and day 10 (coadministration of cyclosporine and aspirin). Cyclosporine whole blood concentrations were determined by a specific monoclonal radioimmunoassay and plasma concentrations of acetylsalicylic acid and metabolites by high-performance liquid chromatography. Lack of a pharmacokinetic interaction was conclusively demonstrated for the rate and extent of cyclosporine and acetylsalicylic acid absorption and for the rate and extent of salicylic acid formation after a single dose of cyclosporine was coadministered during steady-state aspirin dosing. If a clear association between enhanced renal impairment and the combined use of cyclosporine and aspirin is substantiated, the underlying mechanism appears to be pharmacodynamic rather than pharmacokinetic.

Female relative hypospadias: clinicopathologic features

Female relative hypospadias is claimed to be uncommon, and its relation to recurrent lower urinary tract infection is controversial. The pathologic features in 32 females are presented with respect to findings in the lower urinary tract. This series revealed 3 cases of female relative hypospadias, 2 of which showed evidence of persistent cystitis. Although this study is limited, the findings are suggestive of a clinicopathologic relationship between the two conditions and a wider clinical study is recommended.

Failure to demonstrate specificity of the morphological and histochemical changes in mucosa adjacent to colonic carcinoma (transitional mucosa)

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Accessory liver containing metastatic tumour

The occurrence of an accessory liver is extremely rare. A case is reported here describing an accessory liver showing interesting features, being located in the gastrosplenic ligament and containing a metastatic tumour deposit.