Selective detection of salivary cortisol using screen-printed electrode coated with molecularly imprinted polymer

A novel electrochemical sensor was developed for the detection of salivary cortisol levels. The sensor employs a combination of a molecularly imprinted polymer (MIP) and gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) that are electrodeposited onto a screen-printed electrode (SPE). The study utilised density functional theory and molecular docking techniques to determine the geometry of molecular orbitals, electrostatic potential energies, and binding energy of cortisol and the polymers. The thin film of cortisol-imprinted polymer on the SPE was created by electro-polymerizing pyrrole and thiophene-3-carboxylic acid on the electrode surface along with cortisol as the template molecule. The MIP film was characterised using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and electrochemical techniques. The sensor exhibited a linear response in the concentration range of 0.05 nmol L-1 to 2.5 μmol L-1, with a limit of detection of 0.01 nmol L-1, as determined by differential pulse voltammetry. This method offers a simple yet efficient and sensitive approach to detecting cortisol levels in human saliva samples.

Molecular Property Diagnostic Suite for COVID-19 (MPDSCOVID-19): an open-source disease-specific drug discovery portal

Molecular Property Diagnostic Suite (MPDS) was conceived and developed as an open-source disease-specific web portal based on Galaxy. MPDSCOVID-19 was developed for COVID-19 as a one-stop solution for drug discovery research. Galaxy platforms enable the creation of customized workflows connecting various modules in the web server. The architecture of MPDSCOVID-19 effectively employs Galaxy v22.04 features, which are ported on CentOS 7.8 and Python 3.7. MPDSCOVID-19 provides significant updates and the addition of several new tools updated after six years. Tools developed by our group in Perl/Python and open-source tools are collated and integrated into MPDSCOVID-19 using XML scripts. Our MPDS suite aims to facilitate transparent and open innovation. This approach significantly helps bring inclusiveness in the community while promoting free access and participation in software development.

Availability & Implementation

The MPDSCOVID-19 portal can be accessed at https://mpds.neist.res.in:8085/.

Accessing new avenues of photonic bandgaps using two-dimensional non-Moiré geometries

Photonic crystals (PhC) formed by 2-D non-Moiré geometries are realized in this work. Non-Moiré (NM) tiles are the contours of trigonometric functions that generate exciting shapes and geometries. Photonic bandstructure calculations reveal that 2-D NM geometries exhibit new avenues of photonic bandgaps compared to the regular circular rod-based PhCs. The band structures are anisotropic and show, intriguing orientation-dependent partial bandgaps. A few of the orientation-dependent frequency selective properties of the realized NM geometry-based PhCs are demonstrated using full-wave electromagnetic simulations. The proposed geometries are practically realizable, and in this work, we experimentally demonstrate the fabrication process using the 3-D printing technique for microwave frequencies.

3', 4'-dihydroxyflavone ameliorates paclitaxel model of peripheral neuropathy in mice by modulating KATP channel, adenosine (A3) and GABAA (α2 subunit) receptors

Paclitaxel is a widely used cancer chemotherapeutic agent for many solid tumors; but peripheral neuropathy is a major limitation for its clinical use. Studies have demonstrated the usefulness of flavone derivatives in chemotherapy induced peripheral neuropathy. The present study evaluates the anti-neuropathic effect of 3', 4'-dihydroxyflavone on paclitaxel-induced peripheral neuropathy and the underlying mechanisms. Paclitaxel was administered to mice in a single dose of 10 mg/kg, i.p.The neuropathic behavioural parameters such as mechanical allodynia, cold allodynia and thermal hyperalgesia were assessed 24 h later. The test compound 3', 4'-dihydroxyflavone (50,100 or 200 mg/kg,s.c) was administered 30 min prior to the assessment of behavioral parameters. The possible mechanisms involving KATP channels, adenosine and GABAA receptors were explored by employing suitable interacting drugs. Molecular docking studies to predict the binding interactions of 3', 4'-dihydroxyflavone at the above targets were also carried out. The test compound 3', 4'-dihydroxyflavoneexhibited a significant reduction in paw withdrawal response score in both mechanical and cold allodynia and also increased the tail flick response time in thermal hyperalgesia due to paclitaxel-induced neuropathy. The anti-neuropathic effect of 3', 4'-dihydroxyflavonewas significantly reversed by pre-treatment with glibenclamide, caffeine or bicuculline revealing the involvement of KATP channels, adenosine and GABAA receptors respectively. Furthermore, the molecular docking studies indicated a favourable binding affinity and good H-bond interaction of 3', 4'-dihydroxyflavone at these targets. The findings of the present study suggests that, 3', 4'-dihydroxyflavone has anti-neuropathic effect against paclitaxel-induced peripheral neuropathy through mechanisms that involve KATP channels, adenosine (A3) and GABAA (α2 subunit) receptors.

Hemodynamics of acute decompensated heart failure in patients with very low NP levels

Background/Introduction

Natriuretic Peptides are hormones secreted by the heart in response to cardiomyocyte stretch. The principal biological action of NP is natriuresis, diuresis and vasodilation. These are salutary effects in acute decompensated heart failure (ADHF). Some patients admitted with ADHF have very low NP levels. It is unknown if this is due to a defect in biosynthesis or inadequate stimulation.

Purpose

We analyzed data from the National heart Lung and Blood institute sponsored ESCAPE trial which included patients admitted with acute decompensated heart failure who underwent hemodynamic assessment with pulmonary artery catheters at admission and after diuresis. Our aim was to evaluate if there were characteristic hemodynamic findings among patients with very low NP levels at admission which differed from those who had elevated NP levels at admission.

Methods

We performed a secondary analysis of the ESCAPE Trial. We defined very low BNP as patients with BNP level at admission <50 pg/mL. We then compared baseline characteristics between the groups. Continuous groups were compared using X-square test, and Categorical variables were compared using Wilcoxon-signed-Rank-Sum test. We compared groups by Demographic, Anthropometric, Laboratory, and Functional status. We then performed propensity matching on Age, Sex, and BMI and then compared groups.

Results

25/351 patients had very low BNP (<50pg/mL). Patients in the low BNP group had higher BMI than those with elevated BNP (35.8 vs. 28.9 p<0.001). The cohort with low BNP was younger. (50.2 vs. 56.4 p=0.029). In propensity matched cohorts of Age, Sex, BMI. Cardiac output was elevated in the low BNP cohort. (5.2 vs. 3.9 p=0.011). However, Cardiac Index was similar between the groups (2.2 vs. 2.0 p=0.244). Patients in the Low NP group had lower pulmonary capillary wedge pressure (PCWP) compared to those with elevated BNP. (16.5 vs. 25.4 p=0.023). The groups had similar RA pressures (11.5 vs. 13.0 p=0.515). The calculated transmural pressure (PCWP – RA pressure) was lower in the low NP group. There was a reduction in BNP levels at discharge among the group with elevated BNP at admission (1072.6 (baseline) 798.8 (discharge)) In the low BNP group there was an increase in BNP at time of discharge (20.2 (baseline) to 172.7 (discharge)). In follow-up, the low BNP group had reduction in BNP compared to their discharge levels. The group with elevated BNP had elevated BNP at follow-up in 3 and 6 months. Length of stay was shorter in the Low BNP group (6.2 vs. 8.8, p=0.052).

Conclusion(s)

In this secondary analysis of the ESCAPE trial, we find that those patients admitted with ADHF who have unexpectedly low BNP have lower transmural pressures at baseline compared to those who have elevated BNP levels. This suggests that there may not be adequate stimulus for cardiac wall distention and release of BNP.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: None.

Anti-neuropathic effect of 7,3'-dihydroxyflavone in paclitaxel induced peripheral neuropathy in mice involving GABAA, KATP channel and adenosine receptors

Peripheral neuropathy induced by chemotherapeutic agents is the most common dose-limiting adverse effect observed in patients during and after treatment of malignancies. Many flavones have been reported to ameliorate neuropathy of different origin in experimental animals and their possible mode of action explored. The present study aims to investigate 7,3'-dihydroxyflavone for its anti-neuropathic effect against paclitaxel induced peripheral neuropathy in mice by employing behavioural tests such as mechanical allodynia, cold allodynia and thermal hyperalgesia. The possible involvement of GABA_A, K_ATP channels and adenosine receptors in the anti-neuropathic effect of 7,3'-dihydroxyflavone was also studied by employing suitable interacting drugs. Treatment with 7,3'-dihydroxyflavone (50, 100 or 200 mg/kg, s.c) significantly and dose-dependently reduced the paw withdrawal response score in both mechanical and cold allodynia and also increased the tail flick response time in thermal hyperalgesia due to paclitaxel-induced neuropathy. Pre-treatment with glibenclamide (10 mg/kg, i.p), caffeine (50 mg/kg, i.p) or bicuculline (2 mg/kg, i.p) significantly reversed the anti-neuropathic effect of 7,3'-dihydroxyflavone in behavioral tests. In conclusion, the present investigation identified 7,3'-dihydroxyflavone as a potential candidate with anti-neuropathic effect against paclitaxel induced peripheral neuropathy involving K_ATP channels, adenosine and GABA_A receptors.

Distribution, annual committed effective dose, and health safety assessment of 210Po in marine biota from Kalpakkam coast, Bay of Bengal

Seafood, intertidal biota, beach sediment, and seawater from Kalpakkam coast, Bay of Bengal were analyzed for ²¹⁰Po to evaluate the internal exposure and other radiological safety aspects. Kalpakkam houses various nuclear power generation facilities on its coast. The activity concentration of ²¹⁰Po was more pronounced in the intertidal organisms. Pelagic planktivorous fishes have the highest activity of the non-technogenic radionuclide, followed by the detrital feeders, benthic planktivores, benthic carnivores, and pelagic carnivore fishes. The affinity of ²¹⁰Po to organic detrital matter and planktonic organisms has led to a higher accumulation of radionuclide in planktivorous fishes. Activity concentration of ²¹⁰Po in seafood ranged between 1.13 ± 0.3 and 96.71 ± 1.6 Bq kg^-1 (Becquerel/kilogram). In seaweeds and gastropods, it ranged from 2.09 ± 0.2 to 8.21 ± 0.6 and from 9.31 ± 0.7 to 21.58 ± 1.2 Bq kg^-1, respectively. The committed effective dose (CED) of ²¹⁰Po in seafood varied from 31.18 to 456.68 μSv yr^-1 (microSievert/year). Radiological hazard parameters, such as activity intake, CED in consumption, of the seafood from this coast are within the acceptable levels prescribed by the International Commission on Radiological Protection and US Environmental Protection Agency.

Prevalence of Intestinal Parasitic Infestations among Children in a Tertiary Care Centre

Introduction: Intestinal parasitic infestations are more common in developing countries and an important cause of morbidity in pediatric age group. It causes abdominal pain, diarrhoea, anemia, impaired cognitive function, growth retardation and poor academic performance among school going children. Objectives: To analyze age, gender and most common parasitic infestations among children in a tertiary care hospital in south India. Materials and Methods: Stool samples of pediatric patients in a tertiary care hospital is analysed for a period of one year for detection of prevalence of parasitic infestations. Results: In our study, 115 stool samples were analysed and prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections was found to be 7.82% (9/115).There were five different parasites encountered. The most common parasite identified was Giardia lamblia(4/9)(44.44%) followed by Entamoeba histolytica(2/9)(22.22%), Ascarislumbricoides(1/9)(11.11%), Trichuris trichiura(1/9)(11.11%), and Hymenolepis nana(1/9)(11.11%). Conclusion: Giardia lamblia and Entamoeba histolytica were found to be the most common organism in our study. Awareness about proper hygiene, sanitation and prophylactic anti-protozoal medications is important to prevent the occurrence and complications of intestinal parasitic infestations.

MODELING AND EXPERIMENTS TO ESTIMATE RADON EMANATION FACTOR IN SOIL-GRAIN SIZE AND MOISTURE EFFECT

The influence of soil grain size on its radon emanation mechanism was investigated by developing a Monte-Carlo model. The proposed model supplements the previous formulations by accounting for the effect elicited by specific surface area of the sample. The specific surface area of a sample is governed by its grain size and it strongly influences the emanation rate which is a surface phenomenon. The emanation study was further extended to include the moisture effect. Experiments were carried out with two soil samples; Soil-2 and Soil-4 collected from different terrains, to analyze the role played by moisture in the emanation mechanism. The above model was augmented with provisions to include the moisture input. The model could reproduce the experimental results. There is an abrupt increase in the emanation factor when the moisture content changes from 0 to 2%. Thereafter, the increase is gradual and finally becomes steady when the moisture level reaches 10%. Soil-2 and Soil-4 showed sizeable difference in their radon emanation factor values. This could be explained based on the parent226Ra distribution pattern which stems from the mineralogical composition of the samples. Quartz was predominantly found in Soil-2, whereas Soil-4 shows peaks corresponding to minerals namely ilmenite, Rutile and Zircon confirming relatively higher concentration of heavy minerals than Soil-2. The emanation factor values of the individual minerals reported in the literature were used to decide upon the 226Ra distribution depth and with this input the model to ascertain the experimental observations.

An electrochemical sensor for nanomolar detection of caffeine based on nicotinic acid hydrazide anchored on graphene oxide (NAHGO)

A simple modified sensor was developed with nicotinic acid hydrazide anchored on graphene oxide (NAHGO), by ultrasonic-assisted chemical route, using hydroxy benzotriazole as a mediator. Structural and morphologies of NAHGO samples were investigated in detail by Fourier-Transform Infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), Powder X-ray diffraction (P-XRD), Raman spectroscopy, Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). The detailed morphological examination and electrochemical studies revealed the delaminated sheet with the tube-like structure of NAHGO provided the route for more electroactive surface which influenced the electrooxidation of caffeine with increased current. The electrochemical behaviour of NAHGO on a glassy carbon electrode (GCE) for caffeine detection was demonstrated by employing voltammetric techniques. The influence of scan rate, pH, and concentration on caffeine's peak current was also studied. The NAHGO sensor was employed for the determination of caffeine in imol plus and energy drinks. The detection limit determined was 8.7 × 10-9 M, and the best value was reported so far. The results show that NAHGO modified electrodes are one of the best preferences to establish new, efficient, and reliable analytical tools for the detection of caffeine.

Absorption-enhanced EMI shielding using silver decorated three-dimensional porous architected reduced graphene oxide in polybenzoxazine composites

The proliferation of wearable and portable electronic media has increased the demand for highly efficient materials that can be used to create shields against electromagnetic interference.

Effect of Flavone Derivatives on Vincristine and Oxaliplatin Induced Peripheral Neuropathy in Mice

Introduction: Therapy with anticancer drugs like paclitaxel, platinum complexes and vincristine result in severe peripheral neuropathy. Very few treatment options are available to overcome this debilitating side effect. Flavone and its monohydroxy derivatives have been proved to possess anti-nociceptive and anti-inflammatory effects in animal models. Aim: To investigate flavone, 5-hydroxy flavone, 6-hydroxy flavone and 7-hydroxy flavone for their effect on neuropathy induced by vincristine and oxaliplatin in mice. Materials and Methods: In this experimental animal study, neuropathy was induced in mice by multiple doses of vincristine or a single dose of oxaliplatin. The manifestations of mechanical allodynia, cold allodynia and thermal hyperalgesia were measured by von Frey’s hair aesthesiometer, acetone spray test and hot water tail immersion test. The data was subjected to ANOVA followed by Dunnett’s test for multiple comparison and paired t-test at appropriate places. Results: Flavone and monohydroxy flavones significantly reduced the paw withdrawal response scores due to mechanical allodynia and cold allodynia resulting from vincristine or oxaliplatin administration (p<0.05). The tail withdrawal latency due to thermal hyperalgesia was also significantly increased by different flavone derivatives (p<0.05). However, 7-hydroxy flavone was ineffective in oxaliplatin-induced mechanical allodynia and vincristine induced thermal hyperalgesia. Analysis of the results indicated that the manifestations of neuropathy induced by vincristine or oxaliplatin were amenable to treatment with flavone derivatives in the following order; cold allodynia>thermal hyperalgesia>mechanical allodynia. Opioid mediated antinociceptive effect, interaction with cation channels and anti-inflammatory effect of the investigated flavones may be suggested as possible mechanisms for their beneficial effects in neuropathy due to chemotherapeutic agents. Conclusion: Various neuropathic manifestations induced by vincristine and oxaliplatin were effectively attenuated by flavone and monohydroxy flavones.

A systematic review on reported outcomes and outcome measures in female idiopathic chronic pelvic pain for the development of a core outcome set

BACKGROUND

A core outcome set (COS) is required to address inconsistencies in outcome reporting in chronic pelvic pain (CPP) trials.

OBJECTIVES

Evaluation of reported outcomes and selected outcome measures in CPP trials by producing a comprehensive inventory to inform a COS.

SEARCH STRATEGY

Systematic review of randomised controlled trials (RCTs) identified from Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), Embase and MEDLINE databases.

SELECTION CRITERIA

RCTs assessing efficacy and safety of medical, surgical and psychological interventions for women with idiopathic CPP.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two independent researchers extracted outcomes and outcome measures. Similar outcomes were grouped and classified into domains to produce a structured inventory.

MAIN RESULTS

Twenty-four trials were identified including 136 reported outcomes and outcome measures. Rates of reporting outcomes varied (4-100%) and pelvic pain was the most frequently reported outcome (100%). All trials reported the pain domain; however, only half reported quality of life, clinical effectiveness and adverse events. No differences in outcome reporting were observed in five high-quality trials (21%). Univariate analysis demonstrated an association between quality of outcome reporting and methodological quality of studies (r_s  = 0.407, P = 0.048).

CONCLUSION

There is wide variation in reported outcomes and applied outcome measures in CPP trials. While a COS is being developed and implemented, we propose the interim use of commonly reported outcomes in each domain: pain (pelvic pain, dyspareunia, dysmenorrhoea), life impact (quality of life, emotional functioning, physical functioning), clinical effectiveness (efficacy, satisfaction, cost effectiveness, return to daily activities) and adverse events (surgical, perioperative observations, nonsurgical).

TWEETABLE ABSTRACT

There is significant variation in outcome reporting in CPP trials. Our systematic review forms the basis for the development of a core outcome set.

QUANTIFICATION OF BACK DIFFUSION IN RADON AND THORON EXHALATION RATE MEASUREMENTS

The radon (222Rn) and thoron (220Rn) fluxes from the soil and building materials are the major contributors to their indoor levels. Hence, the measurement of radon and thoron exhalation rates from the source matrix becomes the foremost step in controlling the indoor radon and thoron exposure. It is a challenge to measure the exhalation rates without disturbing the natural conditions. The back-diffusion phenomenon modifies the exhalation rate. The work presented here is to measure the back-diffusion coefficient and takes it into consideration while estimating the exhalation rate. For radon measurements, the back-diffusion coefficient and the free exhalation rates were simultaneously estimated by adopting a novel methodology. The leak rate of the experimental setup measured by this methodology was agreeable with the value measured by adopting the standard technique. In the case of thoron, the back-diffusion effect was found to be negligible for the present experimental conditions and it is duly explained. The above results were obtained by analyzing two soil samples with high 238U and 232Th content collected from monazite-rich coastal area.

Fabry-Pérot modes associated with hyperbolic-like dispersion in dielectric photonic crystals and demonstration of a bending angle sensor at microwave frequencies

The dispersion properties of metamaterials and photonic crystals (PhCs) lead to an intensive research in the development of cavity resonators for the confinement of electromagnetic (e-m) radiation. In this work, we investigate the formation of Fabry-Pérot (FP) modes associated with hyperbolic-like dispersion (HLD) regimes in two-dimensional dielectric PhCs. Conventionally, FP modes are formed using an optical etalon, in which electromagnetic (e-m) waves reflecting from a partially reflecting mirror separated by a distance can interfere constructively and form a resonating mode. The FP mode observed in dielectric PhCs is formed due to the interference of cylindrical wavefronts inside the PhC interface at HLD frequencies. The FP modes in PhCs are surface localized, in which maxima/minima of the electric field lies along the air-PhC interface as a standing wave pattern and decays in air medium. Projected bandstructure, Eigen Frequency Contours (EFC), phase and group index calculations are carried out to explain the formation of FP modes in PhCs under different coupling cases. By varying the PhC dimension, FP modes with different spatial profiles are witnessed and the role of source position in exciting specific mode is demonstrated. The observed FP modes in PhCs are compared with the FP mode in an ideal indefinite slab. Based on the FP resonance in PhCs, a sensing device capable of detecting a bending angle less than [Formula: see text] is demonstrated numerically. The FP modes in PhCs are scalable to other parts of e-m spectra so that the bending angle sensing can be extendable to terahertz and optical domains.

A NiCo-MOF nanosheet array based electrocatalyst for the oxygen evolution reaction

Metal organic frameworks (MOFs) are excellent materials for energy storage and conversion. This report describes 2D metal-organic framework nanosheets as an electrocatalyst for the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) under alkaline conditions. An ultrathin nanosheet array of a NiCo-metal-organic framework was grown on nickel foam (NiCo-MOF/NF) by a one-step solvothermal method. The catalytic OER of the NiCO-MOF/NF electrode was analysed by electrochemical methods. The resulting NiCO-MOF/NF exhibited a high current density (50 mA cm^-2) with an overpotential of 270 mV, a Tafel slope of 35.4 mV dec^-1 and a high turnover frequency (TOF) of 0.68 s^-1 (η = 0.27 V) towards the OER. The excellent catalytic activity of the MOF towards the OER was due to the two-dimensional nanosheet array of NiCo-MOF with plentiful accessible molecular active sites and excellent mass transport properties. Faster electron transport was also achieved due to the synergetic effect of Co and Ni present on the MOF.

Anisotropic asymmetric transmission of circularly polarized terahertz waves in a three-dimensional spline assembly

Asymmetric transmission (AT) for circularly polarized (CP) electromagnetic (e-m) waves in chiral metamaterial (CMM) is a well-known phenomenon. However, most of the CMMs exhibit AT along only one direction. In this work, AT for CP waves with a magnitude of more than 0.5 along three principal directions of a newly made three-dimensional (3D) spline assembly is reported at terahertz frequencies. Surface current analysis is presented to explain the mechanism of AT for CP waves in the proposed 3D assembly.

BASELINE EVALUATION STUDY OF NATURALLY OCCURRING RADIONUCLIDES IN SOIL SAMPLES FROM VICINITY OF INDIA'S FIRST FAST REACTOR FUEL CYCLE FACILITY (FRFCF), DAE COMPLEX, KALPAKKAM, INDIA

The activity concentration of 238U, 232Th and 40K were measured in the soil samples collected from Fast Reactor Fuel Cycle Facility (FRFCF) site, using high-resolution gamma-ray spectrometry. This study is aimed to establish the baseline data of naturally occurring radionuclides within the site. The average activity concentrations were found to be 416.5, 61.7 and 622.3 Bq kg-1 for 40K, 238U and 232Th, respectively. The activity concentrations and its radiological indices were evaluated and were compared with the international values reported by the United Nations Scientific Committee on the Effects of Atomic Radiation (UNSCEAR). The ratio of 40K/232Th and 40K /238U were calculated, which indicates the presence of 5.79 and 2.69 times more K-bearing minerals as compared with Th and U-bearing minerals in the soil samples, respectively. The study provides baseline information on concentration of radionuclides and background radiological assessment of the FRFCF site.

Realization of Bidirectional, Bandwidth-Enhanced Metamaterial Absorber for Microwave Applications

The ever-increasing interest towards metamaterial absorbers owes to its remarkable features such as ultra-thin nature and design flexibility. Subduing the inherent narrow bandwidth of such absorbers is the prime goal in metamaterial absorber research, as this can widen the applications areas. A greater challenge is to construct bidirectional absorber, which provides direction-insensitive absorption, as most of the existing designs exhibit single sided absorption due to the complete metal film used in the design. This work presents the realization of a bidirectional, bandwidth-enhanced metamaterial absorber with basic elements such as strips and squares optimized to have adjacent resonances leading to a bandwidth-enhanced absorption. The structural evolution of the constituent metallic components towards the formation of bandwidth-enhanced absorption is described. The bidirectional absorber exhibits more than 90% absorption between 13.40 GHz and 14.25 GHz from the two incident directions. The mechanism of absorption is studied with the surface current analysis and the effective parameters of the structure. The choice of the metallic components with four-fold rotation symmetry renders the proposed design to be polarization independent and wide-angle receptive. The numerical studies are verified experimentally at microwave frequencies, which shows a good agreement between them.

Heparin-binding EGF-like growth factor (HB-EGF) antisense oligonucleotide protected against hyperlipidemia-associated atherosclerosis

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Heparin-binding EGF-like growth factor (HB-EGF) is a representative EGF family member that interacts with EGFR under diverse stress environment. Previously, we reported that the HB-EGF-targeting using antisense oligonucleotide (ASO) effectively suppressed an aortic aneurysm in the vessel wall and circulatory lipid levels. In this study, we further examined the effects of the HB-EGF ASO administration on the development of hyperlipidemia-associated atherosclerosis using an atherogenic mouse model.

METHODS AND RESULTS

The male and female LDLR deficient mice under Western diet containing 21% fat and 0.2% cholesterol content were cotreated with control and HB-EGF ASOs for 12 weeks. We observed that the HB-EGF ASO administration effectively downregulated circulatory VLDL- and LDL-associated lipid levels in circulation; concordantly, the HB-EGF targeting effectively suppressed the development of atherosclerosis in the aorta. An EGFR blocker BIBX1382 administration suppressed the hepatic TG secretion rate, suggesting a positive role of the HB-EGF signaling for the hepatic VLDL production. We newly observed that there was a significant improvement of the insulin sensitivity by the HB-EGF ASO administration in a mouse model under the Western diet as demonstrated by the improvement of the glucose and insulin tolerances.

CONCLUSION

The HB-EGF ASO administration effectively downregulated circulatory lipid levels by suppressing hepatic VLDL production rate, which leads to effective protection against atherosclerosis in the vascular wall.

Excited state C–N bond dissociation and cyclization of tri-aryl amine-based OLED materials: a theoretical investigation

Chemical degradation of TAA occurs through the conical intersection present between ground and first excited singlet state with C–N bond dissociation, which channels the excited molecules to dissociate and form radical fragments or cyclized products.

Detection of scales and its thickness determination in industrial pipes using Compton backscattering system

The ability to detect and quantify scales in pipes has been an important yardstick for efficient transfer of fluids in domestic as well as in application related industries. Knowledge of different kinds of scales formed has become a precondition for trouble-shooting in operational lines. In this paper, collimated Compton backscattered gamma rays from a radioactive source have been used to inspect the scales by automatic scanning in steps along the axial direction of different pipes. The methodology has been extended for the quantification of scales that prevails in the real functionality of extensive usage of fluids. To aid for descaling processes, the desideratum is the density determination of scales and this parameter is quantified non-destructively and is also validated with the standard density. The described non-intrusive gamma ray densitometry is quite promising, efficient and has highly reliable results for scale detection with the squared correlation coefficient of 0.98. The proposed technique shows a better linearity than the gammatography technique.

Effect of flavonol and its dimethoxy derivatives on paclitaxel-induced peripheral neuropathy in mice

Background:

Peripheral neuropathy is the dose limiting side effect of many anticancer drugs. Flavonoids exhibit good antinociceptive effect in animal models. Their efficacy against different types of nociception has been documented. The present study investigated the effect of flavonol (3-hydroxy flavone), 3′,4′-dimethoxy flavonol, 6,3′-dimethoxy flavonol, 7,2′-dimethoxy flavonol and 7,3′-dimethoxy flavonol against paclitaxel-induced peripheral neuropathy in mice.

Methods:

A single dose of paclitaxel (10 mg/kg, i.p.) was administered to induce peripheral neuropathy in mice and the manifestations of peripheral neuropathy such as tactile allodynia, cold allodynia and thermal hyperalgesia were assessed 24 h later by employing Von Frey hair aesthesiometer test, acetone bubble test and hot water tail immersion test, respectively. The test compounds were prepared as a suspension in 0.5% carboxymethyl cellulose and were administered s.c. in various doses (25, 50, 100 and 200 mg/kg). The above behavioral responses were assessed prior to and 30 min after drug treatment. In addition, the effect of test compounds on proinflammatory cytokines like tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-1-beta (IL-1β) and free radicals was investigated by using suitable in vitro assays.

Results:

A dose-dependent attenuation of tactile allodynia, cold allodynia and thermal hyperalgesia was evidenced in mice treated with flavonol derivatives. The test compounds inhibited TNF-α, IL-1β and free radicals in a concentration-dependent manner.

Conclusions:

These results revealed that flavonol and its dimethoxy derivatives ameliorated the manifestations of paclitaxel-induced peripheral neuropathy in mice. The inhibition of proinflammatory cytokines and free radicals could contribute to this beneficial effect.

Sedative-hypnotic like effect of 5-methoxyflavone in mice and investigation on possible mechanisms by in vivo and in silico methods

Flavonoids have been shown to possess central nervous system (CNS) depressant effect mediated through the ionotropic GABA_A receptors. In the present study, 5-methoxyflavone was evaluated for sedative-hypnotic like activity in mice and the mechanisms involved by employing a battery of tests including molecular docking studies. In the open field test, 5-methoxyflavone in various doses (50, 100 and 150 mg/kg, i.p) exhibited a significant and dose-dependent reduction in the spontaneous locomotor activity (F (530) = 87.17 P < 0.001). Pretreatment with 5-methoxyflavone decreased the latency to sleep induction after pentobarbitone or ether administration and also significantly increased the duration of sleep (p < 0.001). A significant and dose-dependent myorelaxant effect was observed with 5-methoxyflavone in the inclined plane, horizontal wire test and rota rod test. Pretreatment with picrotoxin, bicuculline, glycine, caffeine or NMDA either decreased or completely abolished the hypnotic effect of 5-methoxyflavone in mice. The above results revealed the involvement of GABA_A, adenosine, glycine and NMDA receptors in the hypnotic effect of 5-methoxyflavone. The results of in silico studies indicated that, 5-methoxyflavone exhibits good binding affinity towards these receptors by H-bond interactions. In conclusion, the present study identified a novel and potential sedative-hypnotic like effect of 5-methoxyflavone involving multiple mechanisms.

Groundwater chemistry and human health risk assessment in the mining region of East Singhbhum, Jharkhand, India

Groundwater chemistry of mining region of East Singhbhum district having complex contaminant sources were investigated based on heavy metals loads and other hydrochemical constituents. This study aimed to identify the degree of heavy metals exposure and their potential health risk to local population. The results of hydrochemical analysis showed that Na⁺, K⁺, and Ca²⁺ ions are the dominant cations in the groundwater, while HCO₃^-, F^- and Cl^- ions dominate the anionic part of the groundwater. The weathering process was considered the dominant factor to determine the major ionic composition in the study area. Compositional analysis for heavy metal has identified that groundwater of the study area is contaminated by Cd, Pb and Cr elements. Source of these metals have been identified as an anthropogenic inputs from mining activities and mineral processing units. Health risk analysis of individual heavy metal for chronic daily intake (CDI) and hazard quotient (HQ) was found in the order of Cr > As > Cd > Pb which is indicating high health risk for the population. In addition, Hazard Index (HI) analysis for heavy metals was found significantly high (>1) which is considered as a threat for human population because they have the tendency to accumulate in the body and cause variety of diseases like kidney problem, dysfunction of liver and renal cortex as well as cancer.

Effect of certain trimethoxy flavones on paclitaxel - induced peripheral neuropathy in mice

BACKGROUND

The anti - nociceptive effect of 7, 2', 3' - trimethoxy flavone, 7, 2', 4' - trimethoxy flavone, 7, 3', 4' - trimethoxy flavone and 7, 5, 4' - trimethoxy flavone against inflammatory, neurogenic and thermal pain in mice was reported earlier. The present study was designed to investigate the effect of the above trimethoxy flavones in amelioration of peripheral neuropathy induced by paclitaxel.

METHODS

Peripheral neuropathy was induced in mice by administration of a single i.p. dose (10 mg/kg) of paclitaxel. The manifestations of peripheral neuropathy such as tactile allodynia, cold allodynia and thermal hyperalgesia were assessed 24 h later by employing hair aesthesiometer test, acetone bubble test and hot water tail immersion test respectively. Further, the role of inflammatory cytokines like TNF - α, IL - 1β and free radicals in the action of trimethoxy flavones was investigated using in vitro assays.

RESULTS

The test compounds dose dependently attenuated paclitaxel - induced tactile allodynia, cold allodynia and thermal hyperalgesia in mice. The test compounds inhibited TNF - α, IL - 1β and free radicals in a concentration dependent manner.

CONCLUSION

The investigated trimethoxy flavones attenuated paclitaxel - induced peripheral neuropathy in mice. The inhibition of cytokines and free radicals in addition to many neuronal mechanisms reported earlier may contribute to this beneficial effect.

Evaluation of a novel infra-red endoscopy system in the assessment of early neoplasia in Barretts esophagus: pilot study from a single center

Infrared endoscopy (IRE) has been shown to be useful in detecting submucosal (SM) invasion in early gastric cancer. Its role in the endoscopic assessment of Barrett's neoplasia has not been reported to date. We aimed in this study to evaluate the role of IRE in the detection and characterization of early neoplastic lesions within Barrett's esophagus (BE). The secondary aim was to explore its usefulness for the assessment of the presence of submucosal invasion in these early neoplastic Barrett's lesions. We included in the study patients with dysplastic BE who were referred to our institution for endoscopic therapy of a previously diagnosed early Barrett's neoplasia. An examination with white light high resolution endoscopy (HRE) and near IRE after intravenous injection of indocyanine green was performed for all patients using an infrared endoscope prototype. Staining on IRE and correlation with final histological staging by endoscopic mucosal resection/surgery or histological diagnosis on mapping biopsies was analyzed. A total of 23 patients were enrolled in our study: 17 of them with 19 visible lesions and 6 patients with flat BE and no lesions. Staining on IRE was noted in 18 cases: 17 (94%) had at least high grade dysplasia (HGD). No stain was noted in 7 cases: final histology was <HGD in 5 (71%) and ≥HGD in 2 (29%). There was statistically significant difference between cases with no stain and any staining on IRE with regard to the presence of ≥HGD [2/7 (29%) vs. 17/18 (94%) P = 0.0022]. Stain was reported as faint in 12 and dense in 6. All 6 cases with dense staining had at least HGD. We concluded that IRE can provide additional information to the currently available white light endoscopy for detecting early neoplastic lesions within BE. IRE also allows detecting HGD and most advanced histology in BE. Usefulness of IRE to detect submucosal involvement in early Barrett's neoplastic lesions needs to be assessed further in larger cohort studies.

Abstract P1-10-08: Development of a first-in-class oral selective ERα covalent antagonist (SERCA) for the treatment of ERαWT and ERαMUT breast cancer

Mutations in estrogen receptor alpha (ERα) are detected in up to 30% of breast cancer patients who have relapsed during endocrine therapy. ERα mutations functionally confer resistance to existing classes of endocrine therapies, likely through gaining constitutive activity. The fact that current ER-directed therapies are only partially effective in the ERα mutant setting, and that a significant proportion of resistant breast cancer metastases continue to remain dependent on ERα signaling for growth/survival, highlights the critical need to develop the next generation of ERα antagonists that can overcome aberrant ERα activity. Using structure-based drug design approaches we have identified a novel class of ERα antagonist referred to as Selective ERα Covalent Antagonist (SERCA) that inactivate both wild-type and mutant ERα by targeting a unique cysteine residue that is not conserved among other steroid hormone receptors. Biophysical, biochemical and cellular analyses confirm the covalent mechanism of action, specific binding to ER and selective inhibition of ERα-dependent transcription of SERCAs. H3B-6545 is a highly selective SERCA that potently antagonizes wild-type and mutant ERα in biochemical and cell based assays demonstrating increased potency over standard of care and other experimental agents. In vivo, H3B-6545 shows superior efficacy to fulvestrant in the MCF-7 xenograft model with once daily oral dosing, achieving maximal antitumor activity at doses &gt;10x below the maximum tolerated dose in mice. In addition, H3B-6545 shows superior antitumor activity to both tamoxifen and fulvestrant in patient derived xenograft models of breast cancer carrying estrogen receptor mutations. In summary, H3B-6545 is a first-in-class, orally available and selective ER covalent antagonist with a compelling pre-clinical profile that is being developed for the treatment of ERα positive breast cancer.

Citation Format: Korpal M, Puyang X, Furman C, Zheng GZ, Banka D, Wu J, Zhang Z, Thomas M, Mackenzie C, Yao H, Rimkunas V, Kumar P, Caleb B, Karr C, Subramanian V, Irwin S, Larsen N, Vaillancourt F, Nguyen T-V, Davis A, Chan B, Hao MH, O'Shea M, Prajapati S, Agoulnik S, Kuznetsov G, Kumar N, Yu Y, Lai G, Hart A, Eckley S, Fekkes P, Bowser T, Joshi JJ, Selvaraj A, Wardell S, Norris J, Smith S, Reynolds D, Mitchell L, Wang J, Yu L, Kim A, Rioux N, Sahmoud T, Warmuth M, Smith PG, Zhu P. Development of a first-in-class oral selective ERα covalent antagonist (SERCA) for the treatment of ERαWT and ERαMUT breast cancer [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 2017 San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium; 2017 Dec 5-9; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2018;78(4 Suppl):Abstract nr P1-10-08.

Probing the effect of different graphitic nitrogen sites on the aerobic oxidation of thiols to disulfides: a DFT study

Functionalized graphene materials are well known for their application in catalyzing the aerobic oxidation of alcohols, hydrocarbons, etc. in an aqueous medium. Despite the fact that a few catalysts are known to oxidize thiols to disulfides, their selectivity is poor and requires oxidants that are not suitable in terms of the principles of green chemistry. Therefore, in this context, an attempt has been made to investigate the possibility of utilizing nitrogen doped graphene for the aerobic oxidation of thiols to disulfides using density functional theory (DFT). Our previous study (V. S. Jeyaraj, M. Kamaraj and V. Subramanian, J. Phys. Chem. C, 2015, 119, 26438-26450) has shed light on the activation of dioxygen to form activated oxygen species (AOS) at different graphitic nitrogen sites. Hence the same has been used to study the two-electron oxidation of thiophenol and methanethiol. The AOS are of three kinds: (1) peroxide type at the edges, (2) superoxide type at the center and (3) ketonic type at edges. The findings from this study indicate that the peroxide type AOS leads to selective formation of diphenyl disulfide, whereas the superoxide type at the center facilitates the formation of hydrogen peroxide which could lead to over-oxidation of disulfide. The oxidation of aromatic thiols (thiophenol) by the ketonic type of AOS is nearly a barrier-less reaction (0.67 kcal mol^-1). Similarly, AOS at the edges with the peroxide form can oxidize aliphatic thiols (methanethiol) with a less barrier of 1.55 kcal mol^-1, which can be a spontaneous reaction. The mechanism of oxidation is completely different from the oxidative pathway of alcohols by the same AOS. The formation of S-OH species is strictly avoided by the strong stabilization of thiyl radicals over the π-surface of graphene.

Triphenylamine based yellowish-orange light emitting organic dyes (donor–π–acceptor) for hybrid WLEDs and OLEDs: synthesis, characterization and theoretical study

Six novel yellowish-orange light emitting dye molecules consisting of an electron deficient phenone (acceptor) linked to triphenylamine (donor), were designed and synthesized.

Two-acceptor one-donor random terpolymers comprising thiophene- and phenyl-capped diketopyrrolopyrrole for organic photovoltaics

A series of random terpolymers comprising two electron deficient phenyl (PDPP) and thiophene (ThDPP)-capped diketopyrrolopyrrole (DPP) in conjugation with the electron-donating thiophene moiety are synthesised using Stille coupling.

Au22Ir3(PET)18: An Unusual Alloy Cluster through Intercluster Reaction

An intercluster reaction between Au₂₅(PET)₁₈ and Ir₉(PET)₆ producing the alloy cluster, Au₂₂Ir₃(PET)₁₈ exclusively, is demonstrated where the ligand PET is 2-phenylethanethiol. Typical reactions of this kind between Au₂₅(PET)₁₈ and Ag₂₅(SR)₁₈, and other clusters reported previously, produce mixed cluster products. The cluster composition was confirmed by detailed high-resolution electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (ESI MS) and other spectroscopic techniques. This is the first example of Ir metal incorporation in a monolayer-protected noble metal cluster. The formation of a single product was confirmed by thin layer chromatography (TLC). Density functional theory (DFT) calculations suggest that the most favorable geometry of the Au₂₂Ir₃(PET)₁₈ cluster is one wherein the three Ir atoms are arranged triangularly with one Ir atom at the icosahedral core and the other two on the icosahedral shell. Significant contraction of the metal core was observed due to strong Ir-Ir interactions.

The role of sulfur oxidation in controlling the electronic properties of sulfur-containing host molecules for phosphorescent organic light-emitting diodes

In this study a series of dibenzothiophene (DBT) derivatives having different valence states of sulfur atoms have been reported as host materials for blue phosphorescent organic light-emitting diodes. Their electronic properties have also been thoroughly investigated to develop structure-property relationships which include the consideration of the effect of various oxidation states of the sulfur atom in the core moiety and linking (C-N linkage) of subunits with the core at different positions. The results obtained from the electronic structure calculations highlight that the triplet energy (E_T), singlet-triplet energy difference (ΔE_ST), reorganization energy for the hole and the injection barrier for the electron decrease with an increase in the oxidation state of the sulfur atom in DBT. On the other hand, the injection barrier for the hole and the reorganization energy for the electron increase upon increasing the oxidation state of the sulfur atom present in the DBT.

Anti-nociceptive activity of a few structurally related trimethoxy flavones and possible mechanisms involved

BACKGROUND

The present study was designed to investigate the anti-nociceptive activity of a few structurally related trimethoxy flavones (7,2',3'-TMF, 7,2',4'-TMF, 7,3',4'-TMF and 7,5,4'-TMF) and the possible mechanisms involved.

METHODS

Anti-nociceptive activity was evaluated in mice by employing acetic acid-induced writhing, formalin-induced nociception and hot water tail immersion methods. The involvement of opioid, GABAergic, tryptaminergic, adrenergic and dopaminergic mechanisms and K+ATP channels in the anti-nociceptive activity of trimethoxy flavones was investigated using suitable interacting chemicals.

RESULTS

Trimethoxy flavones exhibited a significant and dose-dependent inhibition of acetic acid writhing. The paw-licking response time was reduced both in the early and late phases of formalin nociception in a dose-dependent manner by trimethoxy flavones. A significant increase in tail withdrawal latency time was also observed after trimethoxy flavones treatment. These observations revealed the potential anti-nociceptive action of the investigated trimethoxy flavones. Pretreatment with naloxone and bicuculline significantly attenuated the reduction of abdominal constrictions produced by all the tested trimethoxy flavones indicating a definite role of opioid and GABAergic mechanisms in the anti-nociceptive effect of trimethoxy flavones. The anti-nociceptive action elicited by various trimethoxy flavones was differently modulated by glibenclamide, ondansetron, yohimbine and sulpiride.

CONCLUSIONS

The investigated trimethoxy flavones exhibited promising anti-nociceptive activity in various nociceptive models, and multiple mechanisms are involved in the anti-nociceptive activity of these compounds.

Ab initio and density functional theory (DFT) studies on triflic acid with water and protonated water clusters

The structure, stability and infrared spectral signatures of triflic acid (TA) with water clusters (W_n) and protonated water clusters (TAH⁺W_n, n = 1 - 6) were computed using DFT and MP2 methods. Our calculations show that a minimum of three water molecules are necessary to stabilize the dissociated zwitterionic form of TA. It can be seen from the results that there is no significant movement of protons in smaller (n = 1 and 2) and linear (n = 1 - 6) types of water clusters. Further, the geometries of TAW_n clusters first form a neutral pair (NP) to contact ion pair (CIP), then form a solvent separated ion pair (SSIP) in a water hexamer. These findings reveal that proton transfer may take place through NP to CIP and then CIP to SSIP. The calculated binding energies (BEs) of ion pair clusters is always higher than that of NP clusters (i.e., more stable than the NP). Existing excess proton linear chain clusters transfer a proton to adjacent water molecules via a Grotthuss mechanism, whereas the same isomers in the branched motifs do not conduct protons. Examination of geometrical parameters and infrared frequencies reveals hydronium ion (H₃O⁺ also called Eigen cation) formation in both TAW_n and protonated TAW_n clusters. The stability of Eigen water clusters is three times higher than that of other non-Eigen water clusters. Our study shows clearly that formation of ion pairs in TAW_n and TAH⁺W_n clusters greatly favors proton transfer to neighboring water molecules and also enhances the stability of these complexes.

Steroid dependency and trends in prescribing for inflammatory bowel disease - a 20-year national population-based study

BACKGROUND

It is unclear whether adherence to prescribing standards has been achieved in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).

AIM

To determine how prescribing of 5-aminosalicylates (5-ASAs), steroids and thiopurines has changed in response to emerging evidence.

METHODS

We examined trends in oral and topical therapies in 23 509 incident IBD cases (6997 with Crohn's disease and 16 512 with ulcerative colitis) using a nationally representative sample between 1990 and 2010. We created five eras according to the year of diagnosis: era 1 (1990-1993), era 2 (1994-1997), era 3 (1998-2001), era 4 (2002-2005) and era 5 (2006-2010). We calculated the proportion of patients treated with prolonged 5-ASAs (>12 months) and steroid dependency, defined as prolonged steroids (>3 months) or recurrent (restarting within 3 months) steroid exposure. We calculated the cumulative probability of receiving each medication using survival analysis.

RESULTS

Half of the Crohn's disease patients were prescribed prolonged oral 5-ASAs during the study, although this decreased between era 3 and 5 from 61.8% to 56.4% (P = 0.002). Thiopurine use increased from 14.0% to 47.1% (P < 0.001) between era 1 and 5. This coincided with a decrease in steroid dependency from 36.5% to 26.8% (P < 0.001) between era 1 and 2 and era 4 and 5 respectively. In ulcerative colitis, 49% of patients were maintained on prolonged oral 5-ASAs. Despite increasing thiopurine use, repeated steroid exposure increased from 15.3% to 17.8% (P = 0.02) between era 1 and 2 and era 4 and 5 respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Prescribing in clinical practice insufficiently mirrors the evidence base. Physicians should direct management towards reducing steroid dependency and optimising 5-ASA use in patients with IBD.

Molecular dynamics simulation study on the interaction of collagen-like peptides with gelatinase-A (MMP-2)

Although several models have been proposed for the interaction of collagen with gelatinase-A (matrix metalloproteinases-2 (MMP-2)), the extensive role of each domain of gelatinase A in hydrolyzing the collagens with and without interruptions is still elusive. Molecular docking, molecular dynamics (MD) simulation, normal mode analysis (NMA) and framework rigidity optimized dynamics algorithm (FRODAN) based analysis were carried out to understand the function of various domains of MMP-2 upon interaction with collagen like peptides. The results reveal that the collagen binding domain (CBD) binds to the C-terminal of collagen like peptide with interruption. CBD helps in unwinding the loosely packed interrupted region of triple helical structure to a greater extent. It can be possible to speculate that the role of hemopexin (HPX) domain is to prevent further unwinding of collagen like peptide by binding to the other end of the collagen like peptide. The catalytic (CAT) domain then reorients itself to interact with the part of the unwound region of collagen like peptide for further hydrolysis. In conclusion the CBD of MMP-2 recognizes the collagen and aids in unwinding the collagen like peptide with interruptions, and the HPX domain of MMP-2 binds to the other end of the collagen allowing CAT domain to access the cleavage site. This study provides a comprehensive understanding of the structural basis of collagenolysis by MMP-2.