Electron Beam-Supported Fabrication of Biocompatible Silver/iota-Carrageenan for Wound Healing Application

Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) are a potent antibacterial agent, especially when used to treat bacteria that are multidrug resistant. However, it is challenging to eliminate the hazardous reducing agents that remain in AgNPs produced by the conventional chemical reduction process. To overcome these challenges, the presented research demonstrates the fabrication of AgNPs using iota-carrageenan (ι-carra) as a carbohydrate polymer using electron beam (EB) irradiation. Well-characterized ι-carra@AgNPs have a face-centered cubic (FCC) structure with spherical morphology and an average size of 26 nm. Herein we explored the approach for fabricating ι-carra@AgNPs that is suitable for scaling up the production of nanoparticles that exhibit excellent water stability. Further, the optimized ι-carra@AgNPs exhibited considerable antibacterial activity of 40% and 30% inhibition when tested with Gram-negative Escherichia coli ATCC 43895 and Gram-positive Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) (ATCC 6538), respectively, and low cytotoxicity at 10-50 μg/mL. To establish the potential biomedical application, as proof of the concept, the ι-carra@AgNPs showed significant antibiofilm activity at 20 μg/mL and also showed 95% wound healing abilities at 50 μg/mL compared to the nontreated control groups. Electron beam assisted ι-carra@AgNPs showed significant beneficial effects against specific bacterial strains and may provide a guide for the development of new antibacterial materials for wound dressing for large-scale production for biomedical applications.

State-of-the-art progress on tamarind seed polysaccharide (Tamarindus indica) and its diverse potential applications, a review with insight

Tamarind seed polysaccharide (TSP) is a biocompatible, non-ionic polymer with antioxidant properties. Its uses include drug delivery, food industry, and wastewater treatment. TSP has various hydroxy functional groups, one of the most favorable sites for graft copolymerization of different monomers. Hence, various chemical methods for TSP modification were developed to satisfy increasing industrial demand. Of particular interest in scientific community are the methods of graft copolymerization because of their ability to alter the physicochemical properties of TSP, including pH sensitivity and the swelling index, leading to improvements in the adsorption efficiency of hazardous heavy metals and dyes from wastewater effluents. Moreover, in recent years, TSP has been used for controlled drug delivery applications due to its unique advantages of high viscosity, broad pH tolerance, non-carcinogenicity, mucoadhesive properties, biocompatibility, and high drug entrapment capacity. In light of the plethora of literature on the topic, a comprehensive review of TSP-based graft copolymers and unmodified and modified TSP important applications is necessary. Therefore, this review comprehensively highlights several synthetic strategies for TSP-grafted copolymers and discusses unmodified and modified TSP potential applications, including cutting-edge pharmaceutical, environmental applications, etc. In brief, its many advantages make TSP-based polysaccharide a promising material for applications in various industries.

Exploring the Potential of Natural Products as FoxO1 Inhibitors: an In Silico Approach

FoxO1, a member of the Forkhead transcription factor family subgroup O (FoxO), is expressed in a range of cell types and is crucial for various pathophysiological processes, such as apoptosis and inflammation. While FoxO1's roles in multiple diseases have been recognized, the target has remained largely unexplored due to the absence of cost-effective and efficient inhibitors. Therefore, there is a need for natural FoxO1 inhibitors with minimal adverse effects. In this study, docking, MMGBSA, and ADMET analyses were performed to identify natural compounds that exhibit strong binding affinity to FoxO1. The top candidates were then subjected to molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. A natural product library was screened for interaction with FoxO1 (PDB ID- 3CO6) using the Glide module of the Schrödinger suite. In silico ADMET profiling was conducted using SwissADME and pkCSM web servers. Binding free energies of the selected compounds were assessed with the Prime-MMGBSA module, while the dynamics of the top hits were analyzed using the Desmond module of the Schrödinger suite. Several natural products demonstrated high docking scores with FoxO1, indicating their potential as FoxO1 inhibitors. Specifically, the docking scores of neochlorogenic acid and fraxin were both below -6.0. These compounds also exhibit favorable drug-like properties, and a 25 ns MD study revealed a stable interaction between fraxin and FoxO1. Our findings highlight the potential of various natural products, particularly fraxin, as effective FoxO1 inhibitors with strong binding affinity, dynamic stability, and suitable ADMET profiles.

Engineering a self-healing grafted chitosan-sodium alginate based hydrogel with potential keratinocyte cell migration property and inhibitory effect against fluconazole resistance Candida albicans biofilm

Biofilms developed by microorganisms cause an extremely severe clinical problem that leads to drug failure. Bioactive polymeric hydrogels display potential for controlling the formation of microorganism-based biofilms, but their rapid biodegradability in these biofilm sites is still a major challenge. To overcome this, chitosan (CS), a natural functional biomaterial, has been used because of its effective penetrability in the cell wall of microorganisms; however, its fast biodegradability has restricted its further use. Hence, in this study, to improve the stability of CS and increase its penetration retention inside a biofilm, grafted CS was prepared and then crosslinked with sodium alginate (SA) to synthesize CS-poly(MA-co-AA)SA hydrogel via a free radical grafting method, therefore enhancing its antibiofilm efficiency against biofilms. The prepared hydrogel demonstrated excellent effectiveness against (≥90 % inhibition) biofilms of Candida albicans. Additionally, in vitro and in vivo safety assays established that the prepared hydrogel can be used in a biofilm microenvironment and might reduce drug resistance burden owing to its long-term antibiofilm effect and improved CS stability at the biofilm site. Furthermore, in vitro wound healing outcomes of hydrogel indicated its potential application for chronic wound treatment. This research opens a new advanced strategy for biofilm-associated infection treatment, including wound treatment.

Repurposing FDA-approved drugs as NLRP3 inhibitors against inflammatory diseases: machine learning and molecular simulation approaches

Activation of NLRP3 (NOD-like receptor family, pyrin domain-containing protein 3) has been associated with multiple chronic pathologies, including diabetes, atherosclerosis, and rheumatoid arthritis. Moreover, histone deacetylases (HDACs), specifically HDAC6 is required for the NLRP3 inflammasome to assemble and activate. Thus, NLRP3 serves as an attractive target for the development of novel therapeutic approaches. Several companies are now attempting to develop specific modulators of the NLRP3 inflammasome, but only a handful of small molecules of NLRP3 inflammasome inhibitors, such as MCC950 and Tranilast, are currently available for clinical use. However, their use is limited due to severe side effects and short half-lives. Thus, the repurposing of FDA-approved drugs with NLRP3 inhibitory activity is needed. The present study was aimed at repurposing preexisting drugs that might act as safe and effective NLRP3 inhibitors. A library of 2,697 FDA-approved drugs was screened for binding with NLRP3 (PDB: 7ALV) using Glide (Schrödinger). The top seven FDA-approved drugs with potential binding affinities were selected based on docking scores and subjected to ADMET profiling using pkCSM and SwissADME. The binding of the ADMET-favorable FDA-approved drugs to NLRP3 was validated using MMGBSA (Prime) and Molecular Dynamics (Desmond) in the Schrödinger suite. ADMET profiling revealed that of the seven best docking drugs, empagliflozin and citicoline had good drug-likeness properties. Moreover, MMGBSA analysis and molecular dynamics demonstrated that empagliflozin and citicoline exhibited stable ligand-NLRP3 interactions in the presence of solvents. This study sheds light on the ability of various FDA-approved drugs to act as NLRP3 inhibitors.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.

State-of-the-art advancement in tara gum polysaccharide (Caesalpinia spinosa) modifications and their potential applications for drug delivery and the food industry

In preference to synthetic or petroleum-based materials, current research in food and pharmaceutical industries has focused on the development of biodegradable and sustainable materials due to their low toxicity, and biocompatibility. In particular, the natural water-soluble polysaccharide tara gum (Caesalpinia spinosa) has been widely used as a food-grade and drug-delivery agent due to its biodegradability, and biocompatibility. Moreover, owing to its easily modifiable hydroxy groups, tara gum, and its derivatives have been employed as food packaging films and pharmaceutical materials. In the present critical review, facile grafting methods of tara gum are reviewed, and an up-to-date comprehensive application of tara gum polysaccharides revealed their uses in pH-sensitive food packaging. In addition, modified tara gum materials exhibited improved drug delivery applications with biocompatible properties. The non-toxic nature and non-Newtonian, pseudoplastic rheological properties as well as the synergistic behavior of tara gum with other polysaccharides explore its further industrial applications in several fields. Additionally, several approaches for improving tara gum for use as a stabilizer and thickener for food items, and monitoring food spoilage, have provided notable customized characteristics. In brief, its many advantages make tara gum polysaccharide a promising material for applications in the food and pharmaceutical industries.

Salbutamol ameliorates skeletal muscle wasting and inflammatory markers in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rats

Diabetes accelerates muscle atrophy, leading to the deterioration of skeletal muscles. This study aimed to assess the potential of the β2-adrenoceptor agonist, salbutamol (SLB), to alleviate muscle atrophy in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rats. Male Sprague Dawley rats were randomized into four groups (n=6): control, SLB, STZ (55 mg/kg, single i.p.), and STZ + SLB (6 mg/kg, orally for 4 weeks). After the final SLB dose, animals underwent tests to evaluate muscle strength and coordination, including forelimb grip strength, wire-hanging, actophotometer, rotarod, and footprint assessments. Rats were then sacrificed, and serum and gastrocnemius (GN) muscles were collected for further analysis. Serum evaluations included proinflammatory markers (tumor necrosis factor α, interleukin-1β, interleukin-6), muscle markers (creatine kinase, myostatin), testosterone, and lipidemic markers. Muscle oxidative stress (malonaldehyde, protein carbonyl), antioxidants (glutathione, catalase, superoxide dismutase), and histology were also performed. Additionally, 1H nuclear magnetic resonance serum profiling was conducted. SLB notably enhanced muscle grip strength, coordination, and antioxidant levels, while reduced proinflammatory markers and oxidative stress in STZ-induced diabetic rats. Reduced serum muscle biomarkers, increased testosterone, restored lipidemic levels, and improved muscle cellular architecture indicated SLB's positive effect on muscle condition in diabetic rats. Metabolomics profiling revealed that the STZ group significantly increased the phenylalanine-to-tyrosine ratio (PTR), lactate-to-pyruvate ratio (LPR), acetate, succinate, isobutyrate, and histidine. SLB administration restored these perturbed serum metabolites in the STZ-induced diabetic group. In conclusion, salbutamol significantly protected against skeletal muscle wasting in STZ-induced diabetic rats.

Salbutamol Attenuates Diabetic Skeletal Muscle Atrophy by Reducing Oxidative Stress, Myostatin/GDF-8, and Pro-Inflammatory Cytokines in Rats

Type 2 diabetes is a metabolic disorder that leads to accelerated skeletal muscle atrophy. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the effect of salbutamol (SLB) on skeletal muscle atrophy in high-fat diet (HFD)/streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rats. Male Sprague Dawley rats were divided into four groups (n = 6): control, SLB, HFD/STZ, and HFD/STZ + SLB (6 mg/kg orally for four weeks). After the last dose of SLB, rats were assessed for muscle grip strength and muscle coordination (wire-hanging, rotarod, footprint, and actophotometer tests). Body composition was analyzed in live rats. After that, animals were sacrificed, and serum and gastrocnemius (GN) muscles were collected. Endpoints include myofibrillar protein content, muscle oxidative stress and antioxidants, serum pro-inflammatory cytokines (interleukin-1β, interleukin-2, and interleukin-6), serum muscle markers (myostatin, creatine kinase, and testosterone), histopathology, and muscle 1H NMR metabolomics. Findings showed that SLB treatment significantly improved muscle strength and muscle coordination, as well as increased lean muscle mass in diabetic rats. Increased pro-inflammatory cytokines and muscle markers (myostatin, creatine kinase) indicate muscle deterioration in diabetic rats, while SLB intervention restored the same. Also, Feret's diameter and cross-sectional area of GN muscle were increased by SLB treatment, indicating the amelioration in diabetic rat muscle. Results of muscle metabolomics exhibit that SLB treatment resulted in the restoration of perturbed metabolites, including histidine-to-tyrosine, phenylalanine-to-tyrosine, and glutamate-to-glutamine ratios and succinate, sarcosine, and 3-hydroxybutyrate (3HB) in diabetic rats. These metabolites showed a pertinent role in muscle inflammation and oxidative stress in diabetic rats. In conclusion, findings showed that salbutamol could be explored as an intervention in diabetic-associated skeletal muscle atrophy.

Gum Arabic polysaccharide embedded L-cysteine capped copper oxide nanocarriers selectively inhibit fluconazole-resistant C. albicans biofilm and remove the toxic dye from wastewater

Copper oxide nanocarriers have attracted increasing interest in the scientific community, including antimicrobial applications. Candida biofilm developed causes serious clinical problems, leading to drug failure caused by its inherent drug tolerance. Nanocarriers are a good alternative approach to solving this challenge because of their excellent penetration power inside biofilms. Hence, main objectives of this research were to prepare gum arabic-embedded L-cysteine-capped copper oxide nanocarriers (GCCuO NCs) and tested against C. albicans and explore another application. To achieve the main research objectives, GCCuO NCs were synthesized and investigated for antibiofilm potency against C. albicans. Various methods were employed to measure antibiofilm potency such as biofilm assay etc., of NCs. The nano size of GCCuO NCs is advantageous for augmenting penetration power and retention into biofilms. GCCuO NCs at 100 μg/mL exhibited significant antibiofilm activity against the C. albicans DAY185 by switching of yeast-to-hyphae and gene perturbation. The level of CR dye adsorption was 58.96 % using 30 μg/mL of NCs. Based on effective C. albicans biofilm inhibition and CR dye adsorption capacity of NCs, it can be suggested that present research work opens an innovative path to treat biofilm-associated fungal infections, and these NCs can be used for environmental remedies.

Atenolol Ameliorates Skeletal Muscle Atrophy and Oxidative Stress Induced by Cast Immobilization in Rats

(1) Background: Skeletal muscle atrophy is a common and debilitating condition associated with disease, bed rest, and inactivity. We aimed to investigate the effect of atenolol (ATN) on cast immobilization (IM)-induced skeletal muscle loss. (2) Methods: Eighteen male albino Wistar rats were divided into three groups: a control group, an IM group (14 days), and an IM+ATN group (10 mg/kg, orally for 14 days). After the last dose of atenolol, forced swimming test, rotarod test, and footprint analysis were performed, and skeletal muscle loss was determined. Animals were then sacrificed. Serum and gastrocnemius (GN) muscles were then collected, serum creatinine, GN muscle antioxidant, and oxidative stress levels were determined, and histopathology and ¹H NMR profiling of serum metabolites were performed. (3) Results: Atenolol significantly prevented immobilization-induced changes in creatinine, antioxidant, and oxidative stress levels. Furthermore, GN muscle histology results showed that atenolol significantly increased cross-sectional muscle area and Feret's diameter. Metabolomics profiling showed that glutamine-to-glucose ratio and pyruvate, succinate, valine, citrate, leucine, isoleucine, phenylalanine, acetone, serine, and 3-hydroxybutyrate levels were significantly higher, that alanine and proline levels were significantly lower in the IM group than in the control group, and that atenolol administration suppressed these metabolite changes. (4) Conclusions: Atenolol reduced immobilization-induced skeletal muscle wasting and might protect against the deleterious effects of prolonged bed rest.

Construction of novel g-C3N4 coupled efficient Bi2O3 nanoparticles for improved Z-scheme photocatalytic removal of environmental wastewater contaminant: Insight mechanism

Recently, the major environmental pollution produced by the release of wastewater in liquid type is one of the most extensive forms of foremost pollution in water ecosystems. In this article, the Bi₂O₃/g-C₃N₄ nanocomposite with a direct Z-scheme was effectively obtained by a facile hydrothermal system. The crystal structures, surface morphology, chemical composition, and the optical belongings of the as-obtained composite catalysts were examined by Power XRD, FT-IR spectra, High-resolution XPS spectra, FE-SEM images with EDX spectra, High-resolution TEM images, UV-Vis DRS, and PL spectra respectively. Furthermore, the photocatalytic performance was assessed by the degradation of aqueous Rhodamine B (Rh B) dye under visible-light exposure. The Bi₂O₃/g-C₃N₄ composite photocatalysts (PCs) showed the maximum photo-degradation efficiency through a rate constant value of 0.0149 min^-1, which is 4.9 and 5.3 folds superior to Bi₂O₃, and GCN, respectively. The better GBO2 nanocomposite PCs showed a superior photocatalytic degradation performance (>82%) of aqueous Rh B dye after five successive recycles. Moreover, based on these outcomes of the radical scavenging test, a direct and effective Z-scheme photocatalytic charger transfer mechanism was also projected. Finally, the reusability of the as-obtained Bi₂O₃/g-C₃N₄ nanocomposite has better stability and reusability, which was a favourable applicant for wastewater handling.

Synthesis of Bio-Based Polybenzoxazine and Its Antibiofilm and Anticorrosive Activities

Candida albicans are highly widespread pathogenic fungi in humans. Moreover, its developed biofilm causes serious clinical problems, leading to drug failure caused by its inherent drug tolerance. Hence, the inhibition of biofilm formation and virulence characteristics provide other means of addressing infections. Polymer composites (PCs) derived from natural products have attracted increasing interest in the scientific community, including antimicrobial applications. PCs are a good alternative approach to solving this challenge because of their excellent penetration power inside biofilms. The main objectives of this study were to synthesize a novel curcumin-based polybenzoxazine polymer composite (poly(Cu-A) PC) using Mannich condensation reaction and evaluate their potency as an antibiofilm and anticorrosive candidate against C. albicans. In addition, their anticorrosive efficacy was also explored. PC exhibited significant antibiofilm efficacy versus C. albicans DAY185 by the morphologic changing of yeast to hyphae, and>90% anticorrosive efficacy was observed at a higher dose of PC. These prepared PC were safe in vivo against Caenorhabditis elegans and Raphanus raphanistrum. The study shows that a polybenzoxazine polymer composite has the potential for controlling biofilm-associated fungal infections and virulence by C. albicans, and opens a new avenue for designing PCs as antifungal, anticorrosive agents for biofilm-associated fungal infections and industrial remediation.

A systematic review of complications following selective dorsal rhizotomy in cerebral palsy

PURPOSE

The literature lacks a concise overview of complications secondary to selective dorsal rhizotomy (SDR). The aim of this study was to systematically review the literature regarding post-SDR complications, and to present them concisely.

METHODS

The protocol of the review was registered on Open Science Framework. Studies on SDR in cerebral palsy were included. The studies to be included used SDR for management of spasticity in patients with cerebral palsy. The long-term complications of SDR mentioned in the articles were inventoried.

RESULTS

Thirty studies were included for qualitative review. Twenty-one types of complication were identified. Structural complications were the commonest: scoliosis (214/1,043, 20.5%), hyperlordosis (101/552, 18.2%), spondylolysis (55/574, 9.5%) and kyphosis (67/797, 8.4%). Neurological complications comprised constipation (70/485, 14.4%), hip subluxation (3/29, 10.3%), spastic syndrome (4/47, 8.5%), sensory changes (106/1290, 8.2%) and urinary incontinence (61/1013, 6%).

CONCLUSION

This review should help surgeons and parents alike to know about the potential complications of SDR. Complications may affect quality of life and should be weighed. Although the majority of these complications were managed conservatively, there would still be a physical, psychological and financial burden which should be taken into account. Screening should be continued vigorously throughout skeletal growth and at reduced frequency thereafter, for timely intervention in case of structural complications.

Measurement of the ν_{e}-Nucleus Charged-Current Double-Differential Cross Section at ⟨E_{ν}⟩=2.4 GeV Using NOvA

The inclusive electron neutrino charged-current cross section is measured in the NOvA near detector using 8.02×10^{20} protons-on-target in the NuMI beam. The sample of GeV electron neutrino interactions is the largest analyzed to date and is limited by ≃17% systematic rather than the ≃7.4% statistical uncertainties. The double-differential cross section in final-state electron energy and angle is presented for the first time, together with the single-differential dependence on Q^{2} (squared four-momentum transfer) and energy, in the range 1  GeV≤E_{ν}<6  GeV. Detailed comparisons are made to the predictions of the GENIE, GiBUU, NEUT, and NuWro neutrino event generators. The data do not strongly favor a model over the others consistently across all three cross sections measured, though some models have especially good or poor agreement in the single differential cross section vs Q^{2}.

Assessment of hydrophobic-ion paired insulin incorporated SMEDDS for the treatment of diabetes mellitus

To overcome the low oral bioavailability of insulin, we hypothesized that the insulin-hydrophobic ion pairing (HIP) complex incorporated self-microemulsifying drug delivery system (SMEDDS) would be beneficial. In the present study, an oral insulin delivery system was developed and estimated using the HIP technique and SMEDDS. Further insulin-HIP complexes were characterized using various spectroscopical techniques. Additionally, insulin-HIP complexes were subjected to analysis of complexes' conformational stability in the real physiological solution using computational approaches. On the other hand, in vitro, and in vivo studies were carried out to investigate the permeability and hypoglycemic effect. Subsequently, in an in vitro non-everted gut sac study, the apparent permeability coefficient (P_app) was approximately 8-fold higher in the colon than in the jejunum, and the HIP-incorporated SMEDDS showed an approximately 3-fold higher P_app value than the insulin solution. The hypoglycemic effect after in situ colon instillation, the HIP complex between insulin and sodium docusate-incorporated SMEDDS showed a pharmacological availability of 2.52 ± 0.33 % compared to the subcutaneously administered insulin solution. Thus, based on these outcomes, it can be concluded that the selection of appropriate counterions is important in developing HIP-incorporated SMEDDS, wherein this system shows promise as a tool for oral peptide delivery systems.

Facile construction of cost-effective zinc-aluminium polymeric framework for efficient removal of selective both drug and dye from an aqueous medium

A novel aluminium (Al) and its active alloys are extensively been used in nearly all areas owing to their cost-effectiveness. But when it is subjected to an aqueous medium, gets corroded through a chemical response. In this paper, a novel framework was fabricated by copolymer coating over on Al and loaded with zinc via electro polymerization and electrodeposition method ([EDA- OPDA]Al@Zn). The as-fabricated composite has emerged for the sorption of Methylene Blue (MB) aqueous dye and Paracetomal drug (PAR). The as-fabricated composite framework has been categorized via IR spectra, FE-SEM images, and EDX spectra. The sorption progression was optimized for numerous prompting features like pH, contact time and impact of dosage. Based on kinetics data, the growth in QE value by an enhancement in temperature for adsorption and the higher r values shows the adsorption progression is a pseudo-second-order model. The thermodynamic constraints specify that the field of adsorbate is impulsive and typical endothermic process. Instead, the corrosion resistance of a composite in the 3.5% of NaCl. Solution was explored via EIS spectra and potentio-dynamic polarization. Depending on the observed features, it indicates that the [EDA-OPDA]Al@Zn framework provided fantastic corrosion resistance. So it is obvious that the as-synthesized framework is of multitasking, that it could be successfully performed for the exclusion of MB aqueous dye and PAR drug from the aqueous medium and it also withstands effectively in this corrosive medium.

Synthesis of TiO2, TiO2/PAni, TiO2/PAni/GO nanocomposites and photodegradation of anionic dyes Rose Bengal and thymol blue in visible light

Nowadays, fast-growing industrialization has resulted in the release of enormous amounts of contaminants such as toxic dyes into water bodies and leading to cause health and environmental risks. In this regard, we prepared inorganic nanocomposites for the treatment of toxic dyes. Hence, we synthesized TiO₂/PAni/GO nanocomposites and examined them by using XRD, SEM, TEM, UV-Vis spectroscopy, BET analysis, and a photoluminescence investigation. In addition, band gap energies of the nanocomposites were determined, and Total Organic Carbon (TOC) testing was used to determine dye degradation levels. The photocatalytic degradations of Thymol Blue and Rose Bengal dyes were investigated at different dye concentrations, illumination periods, solution pH values, and photocatalyst dosages. By using TiO₂/PAni/GO, TiO₂/PAni, and TiO₂ at neutral pH, a photocatalyst dose of 1600 mg/L, and exposure to visible light, Thymol Blue and Rose Bengal were photodegraded 85-99%, 60-97%, and 10-20%, respectively, at a concentration of 25 ppm (180 min). Reductions in the TOCs confirmed their photodegradation, and a kinetic study revealed photodegradation followed first-order kinetics. This study shows the coating of polyaniline (PAni) and graphene oxide (GO) on TiO₂ improved its ability to photodegrade Thymol Blue and Rose Bengal dye.

Update on Chitosan-Based Hydrogels: Preparation, Characterization, and Its Antimicrobial and Antibiofilm Applications

Chitosan is a prominent biopolymer in research for of its physicochemical properties and uses. Each year, the number of publications based on chitosan and its derivatives increases. Because of its comprehensive biological properties, including antibacterial, antioxidant, and tissue regeneration activities, chitosan and its derivatives can be used to prevent and treat soft tissue diseases. Furthermore, chitosan can be employed as a nanocarrier for therapeutic drug delivery. In this review, we will first discuss chitosan and chitosan-based hydrogel polymers. The structure, functionality, and physicochemical characteristics of chitosan-based hydrogels are addressed. Second, a variety of characterization approaches were used to analyze and validate the physicochemical characteristics of chitosan-based hydrogel materials. Finally, we discuss the antibacterial, antibiofilm, and antifungal uses of supramolecular chitosan-based hydrogels. This review study can be used as a base for future research into the production of various types of chitosan-based hydrogels in the antibacterial and antifungal fields.

Morphological, Mechanical, and Antimicrobial Properties of PBAT/Poly(methyl methacrylate-co-maleic anhydride)-SiO2 Composite Films for Food Packaging Applications

A poly(methyl methacrylate-co-maleic anhydride) P(MMA-co-MA) copolymer was synthesized via radical polymerization. The synthesized P(MMA-co-MA) copolymer was identified by ¹H- and ¹³C-nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (¹H-NMR), (¹³C-NMR), Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The poly(butylene adipate-co-terephthalate) (PBAT)/P(MMA-co-MA)-SiO₂ composites were developed using a solution-casting method. The PBAT to P(MMA-co-MA) weight ratio was kept at 70:30, while the weight percentage of SiO₂ nanoparticles (NPs) was varied from 0.0 to 5.0 wt.%. SiO₂ was used for PBAT/P(MMA-co-MA) to solve the compatibility between PBAT and the P(MMA-co-MA) matrix. The PBAT/P(MMA-co-MA)-SiO₂ composites were characterized by studied FTIR spectroscopy, XRD, SEM, and TEM. A comparison of the composite film PBAT/P(MMA-co-MA)-SiO₂ (PBMS-3) with the virgin PBAT and P(MMA-co-MA) film revealed its good tensile strength (19.81 MPa). The WVTR and OTR for the PBAT/P(MMA-co-MA)-SiO₂ composites were much smaller than for PBAT/P(MMA-co-MA). The PBAT/P(MMA-co-MA)-SiO₂ WVTR and OTR values of the composites were 318.9 ± 2.0 (cc m^-2 per 24 h) and 26.3 ± 2.5 (g m^-2 per 24 h). The hydrophobicity of the PBAT/P(MMA-co-MA) blend and PBAT/P(MMA-co-MA)-SiO₂ composites was strengthened by the introduction of SiO₂, as measured by the water contact angle. The PBAT/P(MMA-co-MA)-SiO₂ composite films showed excellent antimicrobial activity against the food-pathogenic bacteria E. coli and S. aureus from the area of inhibition. Overall, the improved packaging characteristics, such as flexibility, tensile strength, low O₂ and H₂O transmission rate, and good antimicrobial activities, give the PBAT/P(MMA-co-MA)-SiO₂ composite film potential for use in food packaging applications.

Hydrophilic Composites of Chitosan with Almond Gum: Characterization and Mechanical, and Antimicrobial Activity for Compostable Food Packaging

To enhance the characteristics of the biocomposite film, solution cast was used to incorporate almond gum at different concentrations (10.0, 30.0, and 50.0%). The functional groups and morphology were determined using FTIR and SEM. The thermal property of chitosan and its composites materials were determined via TGA. In this study, the incorporation of almond gum into the chitosan matrix resulted in good mechanical strength, film thickness, and low barrier and solubility characteristics. Water vapor transmission rate (WVTR) and oxygen transmission rate (OTR) of the composites films was also investigated. The WVTR and OTR values for the chitosan/almond gum (CSA) composite film values are 11.6 ± 1.62 (g/m²/day) and 32.9 ± 1.95 (cc/m²/24 h), respectively. The obtained composites show significantly improved antimicrobial activity against Gram-negative (E. coli) and Gram-positive (S. aureus) food-borne pathogenic bacteria. The results suggest that the CSA composites may serve as a promising candidate for antimicrobial food packaging materials. After an observation of the test results, it is inferred that the CSA composites bear good mechanical and antimicrobial activity and also show enhanced morphological characteristics.

Incidence and risk factors for major bleeding events in atrial fibrillation patients on direct oral anticoagulant therapy: data from the National Patient-Centered Clinical Research Network

Background

Direct oral anticoagulation (DOACs) prevent stroke in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) and have a superior safety profile compared with vitamin K antagonists (VKA). Yet, better definition of incidence and risk factors for major bleeding associated with DOACs in clinical practice may be important given emerging stroke prevention technologies, both pharmacologic and nonpharmacologic.

Purpose

To describe the incidence of and risk factors for major bleeding in individuals with AF on DOAC therapy.

Methods

We reviewed electronic health record data for two patient cohorts with AF prescribed DOACs: (1) Duke University Health System (DUHS) (2010–2018) and (2) Sites within the Patient-Centered Clinical Research Network (PCORnet) (2015–2019) which had ≥6 years assimilated data from both inpatient and outpatient encounters (7 sites). In each cohort, we assessed the 5-year incidence of major bleeding events defined as hospitalization for intracranial hemorrhage, or hospitalization for gastro-intestinal bleeding or procedure to control bleeding accompanied by transfusion within ±7 days or death within 30 days. Multivariable Fine-Gray proportional hazards modeling in each cohort was performed to evaluate independent risk factors for major bleeding on DOAC therapy.

Results

The cohorts included 10,625 patients (DUHS) and 58,321 patients (PCORnet) with AF. Major bleeding events occurred within 5 years of diagnosis in 639 (7.9%) of DUHS patients and 2568 (6.6%) of PCORnet patients (Table 1). The DUHS model predicted time to first major bleeding event with a C-index of 0.756 (95% CI 0.737, 0.775) and the PCORNet model had a c-index of 0.745 (0.736, 0.755) (Table 2). Independent factors associated with major bleeding consistent across both models (p&lt;0.001 in PCORnet for all unless noted) were higher CHA2DS2-VASc scores, lower eGFR, anemia (HR per 1-point increase in hemoglobin up to 12 g/dL 0.79 [0.76, 0.82]), prior major bleeding (HR 2.70 [2.22, 3.30]), cancer (HR 1.23 [1.12, 1.36]), recent cardiac surgery (HR 0.70 [0.51, 0.97]; p=0.030), alcohol use (HR 1.56 [1.29, 1.88]), aspirin use (HR 1.44 [1.32, 1.57]), and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor use (HR 1.30 [1.19, 1.42]).

Conclusions

Across a large and geographically diverse contemporary population, risk of bleeding on DOAC for stroke prevention in AF remains a frequent and important clinical problem. There is an unmet need for stroke prevention therapies with improved safety profiles. We identified risk factors for major bleeding events on DOAC therapy, some of which are not represented in traditional risk scores, which may inform shared decision making for stroke prevention.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: Private company. Main funding source(s): Bayer Pharmaceuticals

Antiviral activities of 4H-chromen-4-one scaffold-containing flavonoids against SARS-CoV-2 using computational and in vitro approaches

The widespread outbreak of the novel coronavirus called severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) has caused the main health challenge worldwide. This pandemic has attracted the attention of the research communities in various fields, prompting efforts to discover rapid drug molecules for the treatment of the life-threatening COVID-19 disease. This study is aimed at investigating 4H-chromen-4-one scaffold-containing flavonoids that combat the SARS-CoV-2 virus using computational and in vitro approaches. Virtual screening studies of the molecule's library for 4H-chromen-4-one scaffold were performed with the recently reported coronavirus main protease (M^pro, also called 3CL^pro) because it plays an essential role in the maturation and processing of the viral polyprotein. Based on the virtual screening, the top hit molecules such as isoginkgetin and afzelin molecules were selected for further estimating in vitro antiviral efficacies against SARS-CoV-2 in Vero cells. Additionally, these molecules were also docked with RNA-dependent RNA Polymerase (RdRp) to reveal the ligands-protein molecular interaction. In the in vitro study, isoginkgetin showed remarkable inhibition potency against the SARS-CoV-2 virus, with an IC₅₀ value of 22.81 μM, compared to remdesivir, chloroquine, and lopinavir with IC₅₀ values of 7.18, 11.63, and 11.49 μM, respectively. Furthermore, the complex stability of isoginkgetin with an active binding pocket of the SARS-CoV-2 M^pro and RdRp supports its inhibitory potency against the SARS-CoV-2. Thus, isoginkgetin is a potent leading drug candidate and needs to be used in in vivo trials for the treatment of SARS-CoV-2 infected patients.

Appraisal of Cinnamaldehyde Analogs as Dual-Acting Antibiofilm and Anthelmintic Agents

Cinnamaldehyde has a broad range of biological activities, which include antibiofilm and anthelmintic activities. The ever-growing problem of drug resistance and limited treatment options have created an urgent demand for natural molecules with antibiofilm and anthelmintic properties. Hence, we hypothesized that molecules with a scaffold structurally similar to that of cinnamaldehyde might act as dual inhibitors against fungal biofilms and helminths. In this regard, eleven cinnamaldehyde analogs were tested to determine their effects on fungal Candida albicans biofilm and nematode Caenorhabditis elegans. α-Methyl and trans-4-methyl cinnamaldehydes efficiently inhibited C. albicans biofilm formation (>90% inhibition at 50 μg/mL) with minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of ≥ 200 μg/mL and 4-bromo and 4-chloro cinnamaldehydes exhibited anthelmintic property at 20 μg/mL against C. elegans. α-Methyl and trans-4-methyl cinnamaldehydes inhibited hyphal growth and cell aggregation. Scanning electron microscopy was employed to determine the surface architecture of C. albicans biofilm and cuticle of C. elegans, and confocal laser scanning microscopy was used to determine biofilm characteristics. The perturbation in gene expression of C. albicans was investigated using qRT-PCR analysis and α-methyl and trans-4-methyl cinnamaldehydes exhibited down-regulation of ECE1, IFD6, RBT5, UCF1, and UME6 and up-regulation of CHT4 and YWP1. Additionally, molecular interaction of these two molecules with UCF1 and YWP1 were revealed by molecular docking simulation. Our observations collectively suggest α-methyl and trans-4-methyl cinnamaldehydes are potent biofilm inhibitors and that 4-bromo and 4-chloro cinnamaldehydes are anthelmintic agents. Efforts are required to determine the range of potential therapeutic applications of cinnamaldehyde analogs.

Antifungal activities of fluoroindoles against the postharvest pathogen Botrytis cinerea: In vitro and in silico approaches

Botrytis cinerea is a common necrotrophic fungal pathogen, leading cause of gray mold diseases in plants and fruit. Several benzimidazoles are used for controlling B. cinerea-associated infection in fruit and vegetables, but benzimidazoles resistance restricts its further uses. Therefore, it is a need for alternative drugs that control B. cinerea. Indoles are multi-faceted compounds and their structural similarities with antifungal benzimidazoles make them a choice for further investigation. Thus, the main objective of the study was to investigate the antifungal potencies of indoles against B. cinerea and to decipher the molecular mechanism involved. We conducted in vitro antifungal assays, fruit assays, and computational studies of interactions between indoles and fungal microtubule polymerase. Of the 16 halogenated indoles examined, 4-fluoroindole, 5-fluoroindole, and 7-fluoroindole (MIC range 2-5 mg/L) were found to be more potent than the fungicides fluconazole and natamycin. Fluoroindoles inhibited or eradicated B. cinerea infections in tangerines and strawberries. Molecular dynamic simulation and density functional theory showed that these fluoroindoles stably interacted with microtubule polymerase. Quantitative structure-activity relationship analyses of halogenated indoles revealed that the presence of a fluoro group in the indole moiety is essential for anti-Botrytis activity. The plausibility of the underlying antifungal mechanism was confirmed by in vitro tubulin polymerization. Collective outcomes of this study indicates that fluoroindoles could be used as alternative fungicidal agents against B. cinerea.

Search for Active-Sterile Antineutrino Mixing Using Neutral-Current Interactions with the NOvA Experiment

This Letter reports results from the first long-baseline search for sterile antineutrinos mixing in an accelerator-based antineutrino-dominated beam. The rate of neutral-current interactions in the two NOvA detectors, at distances of 1 and 810 km from the beam source, is analyzed using an exposure of 12.51×10^{20} protons-on-target from the NuMI beam at Fermilab running in antineutrino mode. A total of 121 of neutral-current candidates are observed at the far detector, compared to a prediction of 122±11(stat.)±15(syst.) assuming mixing only between three active flavors. No evidence for ν[over ¯]_{μ}→ν[over ¯]_{s} oscillation is observed. Interpreting this result within a 3+1 model, constraints are placed on the mixing angles θ_{24}<25° and θ_{34}<32° at the 90% C.L. for 0.05  eV^{2}≤Δm_{41}^{2}≤0.5  eV^{2}, the range of mass splittings that produces no significant oscillations at the near detector. These are the first 3+1 confidence limits set using long-baseline accelerator antineutrinos.

Appraisal of Chitosan-Gum Arabic-Coated Bipolymeric Nanocarriers for Efficient Dye Removal and Eradication of the Plant Pathogen Botrytis cinerea

The treatment of textile wastewater comprising many dyes as contaminants endures an essential task for environmental remediation. In addition, combating antifungal multidrug resistance (MDR) is an intimidating task, specifically owing to the limited options of alternative drugs with multitarget drug mechanisms. Incorporating natural polymeric biomaterials for drug delivery provides desirable properties for drug molecules, effectively eradicating MDR fungal growth. The current study fabricated the bipolymeric drug delivery system using chitosan-gum arabic-coated liposome 5ID nanoparticles (CS-GA-5ID-LP-NPs). This study focused on improving the solubility and sustained release profile of 5I-1H-indole (5ID). These NPs were characterized and tested mechanically as a dye adsorbent as well as their antifungal potencies against the plant pathogen, Botrytis cinerea. CS-GA-5ID-LP-NPs showed 71.23% congo red dye removal compared to crystal violet and phenol red from water and effectively had an antifungal effect on B. cinerea at 25 μg/mL MIC concentrations. The mechanism of the inhibition of B. cinerea via CS-GA-5ID-LP-NPs was attributed to stabilized microtubule polymerization in silico and in vitro. This study opens a new avenue for designing polymeric NPs as adsorbents and antifungal agents for environmental and agriculture remediation.

Assessment of Antibiofilm Potencies of Nervonic and Oleic Acid against Acinetobacter baumannii Using In Vitro and Computational Approaches

Acinetobacter baumannii is a nosocomial pathogen, and its biofilms are tolerant to desiccation, nutrient starvation, and antimicrobial treatment on biotic and abiotic surfaces, tissues, and medical devices. Biofilm formation by A. baumannii is triggered by a quorum sensing cascade, and we hypothesized that fatty acids might inhibit its biofilm formation by interfering with quorum sensing. Initially, we investigated the antibiofilm activities of 24 fatty acids against A. baumannii ATCC 17978 and two clinical isolates. Among these fatty acids, two unsaturated fatty acids, nervonic and oleic acid, at 20 μg/mL significantly inhibited A. baumannii biofilm formation without affecting its planktonic cell growth (MICs were >500 μg/mL) and markedly decreased the motility of A. baumannii but had no toxic effect on the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans. Interestingly, molecular dynamic simulations showed that both fatty acids bind to the quorum sensing acyl homoserine lactone synthase (AbaI), and decent conformational stabilities of interactions between the fatty acids and AbaI were exhibited. Our results demonstrate that nervonic and oleic acid inhibit biofilm formation by A. baumannii strains and may be used as lead molecules for the control of persistent A. baumannii infections.

Antibacterial and Antibiofilm Activities of Chloroindoles Against Vibrio parahaemolyticus

Vibrio parahaemolyticus is a food-borne pathogen recognized as the prominent cause of seafood-borne gastroenteritis globally, necessitating novel therapeutic strategies. This study examined the antimicrobial and antivirulence properties of indole and 16 halogenated indoles on V. parahaemolyticus. Among them, 4-chloroindole, 7-chloroindole, 4-iodoindole, and 7-iodoindole effectively inhibited planktonic cell growth, biofilm formation, bacterial motility, fimbrial activity, hydrophobicity, protease activity, and indole production. Specifically, 4-chloroindole at 20 μg/mL inhibited more than 80% of biofilm formation with a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of 50 μg/mL against V. parahaemolyticus and Vibrio harveyi. In contrast, 7-chloroindole inhibited biofilm formation without affecting planktonic cell growth with a MIC of 200 μg/mL. Both chlorinated indoles caused visible damage to the cell membrane, and 4-chloroindole at 100 μg/mL had a bactericidal effect on V. parahaemolyticus within 30 min treatment, which is superior to the effect of tetracycline at the same dose. The quantitative structure-activity relationship (QSAR) analyses revealed that chloro and bromo at positions 4 or 5 of the indole are essential for eradicating the growth of V. parahaemolyticus. These results suggest that halogenated indoles have potential use in antimicrobial and antivirulence strategies against Vibrio species.

Synthesis of pH-sensitive crosslinked guar gum-g-poly(acrylic acid-co-acrylonitrile) for the delivery of thymoquinone against inflammation

The present work aims to synthesize the pH-sensitive crosslinked guar gum-g-poly(acrylic acid-co-acrylonitrile) [guar-g-(AA-co-ACN)] via microwave-assisted technique for the sustained release of thymoquinone. The synthesized material [guar-g-(AA-co-ACN)] was optimized by varying synthetic parameters viz. monomer concentration, reaction time, and microwave power to obtain the maximum yield of the crosslinked guar gum grafted product as well as maximum encapsulation of thymoquinone. The synthesized material [guar-g-poly(AA-co-ACN)] was characterized by FT-IR, SEM, XRD, NMR, zeta potential, and thermal techniques. This synthesized material was used to encapsulate thymoquinone (TQ) for effective nanotherapeutic delivery. In-vitro thymoquinone release behavior of guar-g-poly(AA-co-ACN) based nanoparticles (NpTGG) was investigated. The maximum thymoquinone release (78%) was achieved at pH 7.4 and time (6 h). The NpTGG also exhibited better antioxidant activity and hemocompatibility as compared to thymoquinone. Cytotoxicity of uar-g-(AA-co-ACN) and NpTGG was also evaluated against the human kidney VERO cell line and found to be nontoxic. Current research provides a cost-effective and green approach for the synthesis of guar-g-(AA-co-ACN) and NpTGG for sustained release of thymoquinone.

Deciphering the Relationship Between Cycloheximides Structures and Their Different Biological Activities

Streptomyces species are the most important sources of antibacterial, antifungal, and phytotoxic metabolites. In this study, cycloheximide (CH) and acetoxycycloheximide (ACH) were isolated from the fermentation broth of Streptomyces sp. JCK-6092. The antifungal and phytotoxic activities of the two compounds (CH and ACH) and a cycloheximide derivative, hydroxycycloheximide (HCH), were compared. CH exhibited the strongest antagonistic activity against all the true fungi tested, followed by ACH and HCH. However, both CH and ACH displayed similar mycelial growth inhibitory activities against several phytopathogenic oomycetes, and both were more active than that of HCH. Disparate to antifungal ability, ACH showed the strongest phytotoxic activity against weeds and crops, followed by HCH and CH. ACH caused chlorophyll content loss, leaf electrolytic leakage, and lipid peroxidation in a dose-dependent manner. Its phytotoxicity was stronger than that of glufosinate-ammonium but weaker than that of paraquat in the in vitro experiments. CH and its derivatives are well-known protein synthesis inhibitors; however, the precise differences between their mechanism of action remain undiscovered. A computational study revealed effects of CHs on the protein synthesis of Pythium ultimum (oomycetes), Magnaporthe oryzae (true fungus), and Capsicum annum (plant) and deciphered the differences in their biological activities on different targets. The binding energies and conformation stabilities of each chemical molecule correlated with their biological activities. Thus, molecular docking study supported the experimental results. This is the first comparative study to suggest the ribosomal protein alteration mechanisms of CHs in plants and fungi and to thus show how the protein inhibitory activities of the different derivatives are altered using molecular docking. The correlation of structures features of CHs in respect to bond formation with desired protein was revealed by density functional theory. Overall collective results suggested that CHs can be used as lead molecules in the development of more potent fungicides and herbicides molecules.

Assessment of antiviral potencies of cannabinoids against SARS-CoV-2 using computational and in vitro approaches

Effective treatment choices to the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) are limited because of the absence of effective target-based therapeutics. The main object of the current research was to estimate the antiviral activity of cannabinoids (CBDs) against the human coronavirus SARS-CoV-2. In the presented research work, we performed in silico and in vitro experiments to aid the sighting of lead CBDs for treating the viral infections of SARS-CoV-2. Virtual screening was carried out for interactions between 32 CBDs and the SARS-CoV-2 Mpro enzyme. Afterward, in vitro antiviral activity was carried out of five CBDs molecules against SARS-CoV-2. Interestingly, among them, two CBDs molecules namely Δ9 -tetrahydrocannabinol (IC50 = 10.25 μM) and cannabidiol (IC50 = 7.91 μM) were observed to be more potent antiviral molecules against SARS-CoV-2 compared to the reference drugs lopinavir, chloroquine, and remdesivir (IC50 ranges of 8.16-13.15 μM). These molecules were found to have stable conformations with the active binding pocket of the SARS-CoV-2 Mpro by molecular dynamic simulation and density functional theory. Our findings suggest cannabidiol and Δ9 -tetrahydrocannabinol are possible drugs against human coronavirus that might be used in combination or with other drug molecules to treat COVID-19 patients.

2H/4H-Chromenes-A Versatile Biologically Attractive Scaffold

2H/4H-chromene (2H/4H-ch) is an important class of heterocyclic compounds with versatile biological profiles, a simple structure, and mild adverse effects. Researchers discovered several routes for the synthesis of a variety of 2H/4H-ch analogs that exhibited unusual activities by multiple mechanisms. The direct assessment of activities with the parent 2H/4H-ch derivative enables an orderly analysis of the structure-activity relationship (SAR) among the series. Additionally, 2H/4H-ch have numerous exciting biological activities, such as anticancer, anticonvulsant, antimicrobial, anticholinesterase, antituberculosis, and antidiabetic activities. This review is consequently an endeavor to highlight the diverse synthetic strategies, synthetic mechanism, various biological profiles, and SARs regarding the bioactive heterocycle, 2H/4H-ch. The presented scaffold work compiled in this article will be helpful to the scientific community for designing and developing potent leads of 2H/4H-ch analogs for their promising biological activities.

Saphenous vein graft aneurysm - Unusual cause of hemoptysis: A case report and review of literature

Hemoptysis due to saphenous venous graft (SVG) aneurysm is an extremely rare condition and published literature has described the role of conservative management, surgical resection, and covered stent. Here, we report a successful placement of a covered stent for SVG aneurysm in a 56-year-old male who presented with hemoptysis. He was a known diabetic and had undergone a coronary artery bypass grafting 5 years ago. Computed tomography (CT) chest and fiberoptic bronchoscopy performed in another local hospital had revealed blood in the left lingula with spillover into the left lung parenchyma. Hence, he had received empirical anti-tuberculosis medication for 2 months without any improvement. He was referred to our hospital for further management of hemoptysis. Multidetector CT (MDCT) angiography of the chest covering coronaries performed at our hospital revealed SVG aneurysm that was managed with covered stent placement.

Pharmacophore Generation, Quantitative Structure-Activity Relationship (QSAR), and Molecular Dynamic Simulation of Newly Substituted N-(6- Chloro-3-cyano-4-phenyl-4H-chromen-2-yl)-2-(4-chloro-phenoxy)-acetamide for Anticancer Activity

OBJECTIVE

The main objective of the study was to develop the Quantitative Structure- Activity Relationship (QSAR) and pharmacophore model by using data obtained from HT-29 cells to develop potent lead molecule for the scientific community.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Common pharmacophore model, atom-based 3D-QSAR, and molecular dynamic (MD) simulation were carried out via computational techniques by using 4H-chromene derivatives.

RESULTS

The reliable common pharmacophoric hypothesis, DHH13 was generated and 3.95 survival value was also found. Furthermore, the statistically significant 3D-QSAR model was developed where r²=0.52 was found by using the Partial least squares (PLS) regression method. Phase predicted activity and Log GI⁵⁰ demonstrated an important atomic position in the structure of ligands to ascertain anti colon cancer activity. Also, MD simulation was carried out between top rank leads targeting IL-6 that provided better binding conformational and complex stability into the active pocket site of the target throughout the MD simulation.

CONCLUSION

The outcome of this design shows that the pharmacophore model and 3D-QSAR might be helpful for researchers in the field of medicinal chemistry to design and develop potential anti colon cancer compounds.

Author Correction: Novel Indole-fused benzo-oxazepines (IFBOs) inhibit invasion of hepatocellular carcinoma by targeting IL-6 mediated JAK2/STAT3 oncogenic signals

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.

Discovery of Substituted N-(6-Chloro-3-cyano-4-phenyl-4H-chromen-2-yl)- 2-(4-chloro-phenoxy)-acetamide for Biphasic Anticancer and Anticonvulsant Activities

BACKGROUND

Privileged 4H-chromenes possess potent anticancer and anticonvulsant activities. By the inspiring potency of 4H-chromenes and demands of the present era of scaffolds, an effective molecule was discovered for the treatment of cancer and related diseases.

OBJECTIVE

This study designed and synthesized a novel series of 4H-chromene derivatives from one-port synthesis for the treatment of cancer and other such diseases.

METHODS

A side amide chain was substituted in multiple steps on the amine group of chromene. Later, the anticancer activity of synthesized compounds was investigated against the human colon adenocarcinoma cell line (HT-29) using sulforhodamine B (SRB) assay. Moreover, anticonvulsant activity was also detected using maximal electroshock seizure (MES) model and subcutaneous Metrazol Seizure Threshold Test (scMET) in albino Wistar rats. Neurotoxicity was evaluated by using the rotarod test. Before the synthesis, docking studies were performed using various molecular targets. Subsequently, the computational study of the titled compounds was performed to predict the pharmacokinetic profile.

RESULTS

Among the fifteen tested compounds, A4 and A9 were found to be active against HT-29 cells (growth inhibitory dose 50% (GI50) <11μM). Moreover, compounds A4 showed the protection at 300mg/kg in scMET (h) for albino Wistar rats and compounds A9, A11, and A15 exhibited the anticonvulsant effect at the doses 100, 300 and 300 mg/kg, respectively in MES screen (h).

CONCLUSION

Due to these encouraging results, we concluded that both A4 and A9 may be effective for treatement against colon cancer, while compound A9 may be used as a considerable effective molecule for the treatment of epilepsy.

Therapeutic potential of benfotiamine and its molecular targets

OBJECTIVE

The water-soluble vitamin, thiamine forms an important part of the diet because of its role in the energy metabolism. The protective effects of thiamine against diabetic vascular complications have been well documented. However, slower absorption and reduced bioavailability is a major limiting factor for its clinical use. To overcome this issue, lipid-soluble derivatives of thiamine (allithiamines) was developed. Among the many synthetic lipophilic derivatives of thiamine, benfotiamine (BFT) is regarded as the first choice based on its safety and clinical efficacy data. BFT facilitates the action of thiamine diphosphate, a cofactor for the enzyme transketolase. The activation of transketolase enzyme accelerates the precursors of advanced glycation end products (AGEs) towards the pentose phosphate pathway thereby reducing the production of AGEs. The reduction in AGEs subsequently decreases metabolic stress which benefits vascular complications seen in diabetes. The effects of BFT on the AGE-dependent pathway is well established. However, several studies have shown that BFT also modulates pathways other than AGE such as arachidonic acid (AA), nuclear transcription Factor κB (NF-κβ), protein kinase B, mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPK) and vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 (VEGFR2) signaling pathways. In the present review, we have comprehensively reviewed all the molecular targets modulated by BFT to provide mechanistic perspective to highlight its pleiotropic effects.

First measurement of neutrino oscillation parameters using neutrinos and antineutrinos by NOvA

The NOvA experiment has seen a 4.4σ signal of ν[over ¯]_{e} appearance in a 2 GeV ν[over ¯]_{μ} beam at a distance of 810 km. Using 12.33×10^{20} protons on target delivered to the Fermilab NuMI neutrino beamline, the experiment recorded 27 ν[over ¯]_{μ}→ν[over ¯]_{e} candidates with a background of 10.3 and 102 ν[over ¯]_{μ}→ν[over ¯]_{μ} candidates. This new antineutrino data are combined with neutrino data to measure the parameters |Δm_{32}^{2}|=2.48_{-0.06}^{+0.11}×10^{-3}  eV^{2}/c^{4} and sin^{2}θ_{23} in the ranges from (0.53-0.60) and (0.45-0.48) in the normal neutrino mass hierarchy. The data exclude most values near δ_{CP}=π/2 for the inverted mass hierarchy by more than 3σ and favor the normal neutrino mass hierarchy by 1.9σ and θ_{23} values in the upper octant by 1.6σ.

The face of postural tachycardia syndrome - insights from a large cross-sectional online community-based survey

BACKGROUND

Patients with postural tachycardia syndrome (POTS) experience chronic symptoms of orthostatic intolerance. There are minimal data detailing the demographics, clinical features and clinical course of this condition. This online, community-based survey highlights patients' experience with POTS. It consists of the largest sample of POTS patients reported to date.

OBJECTIVES

To describe the demographics, past medical history, medications, treatments and diagnostic journey for patients living with POTS.

METHODS

Postural tachycardia syndrome patients completed an online, community-based, cross-sectional survey. Participants were excluded if they had not received a diagnosis of POTS from a physician. The questions focused on the patient experience and journey, rather than physiological responses.

RESULTS

The final analysis included 4835 participants. POTS predominantly affects white (93%) females (94%) of childbearing age, with approximately half developing symptoms in adolescence (mode 14 years). POTS is a chronic multisystem disorder involving a broad array of symptoms, with many patients diagnosed with comorbidities in addition to POTS. POTS patients often experience lengthy delays [median (interquartile range) 24 (6-72) months] and misdiagnosis, but the diagnostic delay is improving. POTS patients can present with a myriad of symptoms most commonly including lightheadedness (99%), tachycardia (97%), presyncope (94%), headache (94%) and difficulty concentrating (94%).

CONCLUSIONS

These data provide important insights into the background, clinical features and diagnostic journey of patients suffering from POTS. These data should serve as an essential step for moving forward with future studies aimed at early and accurate diagnoses of these patients leading to appropriate treatments for their symptoms.

Discovery of Novel 2-Amino-5-(Substituted)-1,3,4-Thiadiazole Derivatives: New Utilities for Colon Cancer Treatment

BACKGROUND

Colon cancer is one of the most widespread disease, the mortality rate is high due to cancer metastasis and the development of drug resistance. In this regards, new chemotherapeutic agents with specific mechanisms of action and significant effect on patient's survival are the new era for the colon cancer drug development.

OBJECTIVE

The main objective of present study was to design, synthesize of a novel series of 1,3,4-thiadiazole derivatives (VR1 to VR35) and screen them against HT-29 human colon cancer cell line.

METHOD

Newly 1,3,4-thiadiazole scaffold were designed, synthesized and further, characterized by FTIR, NMR (1H and 13C), MS and elemental analyses. Before the synthesis, molecular dynamic simulation and ADME studies were performed to find out the most potent lead compounds. Later, SRB assay using HT-29 cells and ELISA assays were performed to explore activity and molecular targets of VR24 and VR27 and find out whether in silico data had a similar pattern in the molecular level.

RESULTS

The results of docking study revealed that both VR24 and VR27 had interaction energy >-5 kcal/mol with various assigned molecular targets and the ligand-protein complexes were found to be stable with IL-6. The computational analysis of molecules showed good ADMET profiling. Later, the in vitro anticancer study was conducted where VR24 and VR27 were found to be active against HT-29 cells (GI50<10 µM). Finally, ELISA assays revealed that both the compounds had higher inhibition properties to various biomarker of colon cancer like IL-6 and COX-2.

CONCLUSION

Collectively, these result suggested that VR24 and VR27 inhibited the assigned molecular targets, imparting their ameliorative effects against colon cancer. Due to these encouraging results, we concluded that both VR24 and VR27 may be effective against colon cancer therapy in future.

Tunable physicochemical and free volume characteristics of novel terpolymer–poly(vinyl alcohol)-grafted membranes for direct methanol fuel cells

Here, we describe a facile and scalable approach to fabricate novel ABC-type terpolymer-based proton conducting membranes (PCMs) and elucidate the benefits of utilizing terpolymer composite membrane polymer materials as electrolytes for direct methanol fuel cells (DMFC).