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Therapeutics that interfere with the damage/pathogen-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs/PAMPs) have evolved as promising candidates for hepatic inflammation like that occurring in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). In the current study, we examined the therapeutic impact of the phosphodiesterase-1 inhibitor vinpocetine (Vinpo), alone or when combined with Lactobacillus, on hepatic abnormalities caused by a 13-week high-fat diet (HFD) and diabetes in rats. The results show that Vinpo (10 and 20 mg/kg/day) dose-dependently curbed HFD-induced elevation of liver injury parameters in serum (ALT, AST) and tissue histopathology. These effects were concordant with Vinpo's potential to ameliorate HFD-induced fibrosis (Histological fibrosis score, hydroxyproline, TGF-β1) and oxidative stress (MDA, NOx) alongside restoring the antioxidant-related parameters (GSH, SOD, Nrf-2, HO-1) in the liver. Mechanistically, Vinpo attenuated the hepatocellular release of DAMPs like high mobility group box (HMGB)1 alongside lowering the overactivation of the pattern recognition receptors including, toll-like receptor (TLR)4 and receptor for advanced glycation end-products (RAGE). Consequently, there was less activation of the transcription factor nuclear factor-kappa B that lowered production of the proinflammatory cytokines TNF-α and IL-6 in Vinpo-treated HFD/diabetes rats. Compared to Vinpo treatment alone, Lactobacillus probiotics as adjunctive therapy with Vinpo significantly improved the disease-associated inflammation and oxidative stress injury, as well as the insulin resistance and lipid profile abnormalities via enhancing the restoration of the symbiotic microbiota. In conclusion, combining Vinpo and Lactobacillus probiotics may be a successful approach for limiting NAFLD in humans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ticks are ectoparasites belonging to the phylum Arachnida infesting humans and animals. Besides their parasitic role, ticks also spread multiple bacterial, viral, and parasitic diseases because of their vector role. Hyalomma is a major genus of ticks containing species of zoonotic and pathogenic significance. Control of the ticks is the primary importance, but chemical acaricides are being avoided because of resistance and one health-related issue. In this study, acaricidal and repellent activities of the ethanolic and ethyl acetate extracts of Tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum) have been evaluated against the ticks of Hyalomma genus. Each extract was serially diluted to have 1.25, 2.5, 5, and 10% concentrations. The parameters taken were adult mortality, larval mortality, egg hatchability and product effectiveness. The results suggested that the ethyl acetate and ethanolic extracts had statistically comparable (P>0.05) effects on adult mortality (tick immersion), larval mortality (larval immersion test), egg hatchability and tick repellency parameters. This research also revealed that extracts of N. tabacum were also comparable to (P>0.05) standard medicated control at the highest concentrations. Ethanolic and ethyl acetate extracts had significantly (P<0.05) different acaricidal effects from the blank control at 10% concentration. This research suggests that the N. tabacum can be used as an acaricidal and tick-repellent agent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: This study explores alternative methods to combat onion white rot, a destructive disease caused by Sclerotium cepivorum, which poses a significant threat to onion cultivation, leading to substantial yield losses. Traditional fungicides, while effective, raise environmental concerns, prompting a search for eco-friendly alternatives. This research evaluates the efficacy of nanoparticles and chemical inducers in managing the disease. Nanoparticles, including Fe3O4, Cu, and ZnO, exhibit promising results in inhibiting the growth of the pathogen both in vitro and in vivo. Additionally, chemical inducers like salicylic acid show potential in reducing disease incidence and severity while promoting plant growth. This study also includes an assessment of traditional fungicides' inhibitory effects on S. cepivorum. Overall, this research provides valuable insights into eco-friendly strategies for onion white rot management, offering potential solutions to mitigate the impact of this devastating disease on onion crops and the environment. This study investigated the effectiveness of nanoparticles and chemical inducers in managing onion white rot caused by Sclerotium cepivorum. The pathogen severely threatens onion cultivation, resulting in significant yield losses and economic setbacks. Traditional fungicides, though effective, raise environmental concerns, prompting a shift toward eco-friendly alternatives. In this study, four S. cepivorum isolates were utilized, each exhibiting varying degrees of pathogenicity, with the third isolate from Abu-Hamad demonstrating the highest potency. During the in vitro studies, three nanoparticles (NPs) were investigated, including Fe3O4 NPs, Cu NPs, and ZnO NPs, which demonstrated the potential to inhibit mycelial growth, with salicylic acid and Fe3O4 NPs exhibiting synergistic effects. In vivo, these nanoparticles reduced the disease incidence and severity, with Fe3O4 NPs at 1000–1400 ppm resulting in 65.0–80.0% incidence and 80.0–90.0% severity. ZnO NPs had the most positive impact on the chlorophyll content, while Cu NPs had minimal effects. At 1000 ppm, Fe3O4 NPs had variable effects on the phenolic compounds (total: 6.28, free: 4.81, related: 2.59), while ZnO NPs caused minor fluctuations (total: 3.60, free: 1.82, related: 1.73). For the chemical inducers, salicylic acid reduced the disease (10.0% incidence, 25.0% to 10.0% severity) and promoted growth, and it elevated the chlorophyll values and enhanced the phenolic compounds in infected onions. Potassium phosphate dibasic (PDP) had mixed effects, and ascorbic acid showed limited efficacy toward disease reduction. However, PDP at 1400 ppm and ascorbic acid at 1000 ppm elevated the chlorophyll values and enhanced the phenolic compounds. Furthermore, this study extended to traditional fungicides, highlighting their inhibitory effects on S. cepivorum. This research provides a comprehensive comparative analysis of these approaches, emphasizing their potential in eco-friendly onion white rot management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Helminths are widespread infectious agents, causing severe economic and performance losses in all animals, especially donkeys. Strongylus (S.) vulgaris and Fasciola (F.) hepatica are abundantly present in the equines. Their control using herbal is being necessitated because of the resistance of parasites towards routinely used chemicals. In this study, 60 positive animals were divided equally into 4 groups, each having three replicates named A, B, C, and D. Donkeys in groups A, B, and C received 1200, 1000, and 800 mg/kg mixture of 4 plants of family Apiaceae while the group D was kept as non-medicated control. The medication of the animals was done for 4 weeks. Fecal, hematological, and hepato-renal function-related serum samples were collected on days 0, 14, and 28 of the experiment to estimate the effects of herbal mixture on fecal egg count reduction, red blood cell counts, white blood cells, hemoglobin, packed cell volume, alanine aminotransferase, aspartate transferase, serum proteins, serum albumins, urea, and creatinine. The donkeys were weighed at the start and end of the trial to estimate the effect of the herbal mixture on weight gain. The results suggested that total helminth, S. vulgaris, and F. hepatica egg counts were significantly (p<0.05) less than the control group. Herbal mixture significantly (p<0.05) improved the red blood cells, packed cell volume, hemoglobin, total proteins, albumins, and weight gains of the donkeys treated with 1200 mg/kg herbal mixture. The results suggested that the herbal mixture from the plants of the family Apiaceae was effective in controlling the helminths and improving hematological and serological parameters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This report expresses a sustainable methodology for the in situ synthesis of Ag nanoparticles (NPs) adorned carboxymethyl lignin (CML) functionalized Fe3O4 nanocomposite (Fe3O4@CML/Ag) and its subsequent chemical and biological applications. Structural and physicochemical features of such novel material was evaluated through a number of analytical techniques like FT-IR, FE-SEM, TEM, EDS, XRD, ICP and VSM. The nanomaterial was a competent catalyst towards the N-acylation of diverse amines using acetic anhydride at solvent-free conditions. The material was isolated by magnet and reused for 8 consecutive times. Furthermore, the material was employed in the biological evaluation of anti-oxidant properties by DPPH method as well as the anticancer studies of against HT-29 and Caco-2 colon cell lines following MTT method. The DPPH assay afforded a significant IC50 value that suggested the material to have good anticancer properties. Interestingly, % cell viability of the malignant cell lines was found to decrease dose-dependently over Fe3O4@NaLS/Ag nanocomposite. MTT assay afforded the corresponding IC50 values to be 395.4 μg/ml and 287.3 μg/ml respectively against the two cell lines. The absorbance rate was evaluated at 545 nm, which represented toxicity on normal cell line (CHO) even up to 2000 μg/mL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The poultry sector is facing multiple challenges among which infectious diseases are major hindrances. Coccidiosis, especially cecal coccidiosis is the most prominent disease because of its acute nature and high mortality. Controlling through synthetic chemicals and ionophores is becoming less effective, botanicals especially essential oils are being considered for the control of coccidiosis. In this study, broiler birds at day 10 of age were divided into 6 groups. Three concentrations of flaxseed (Linum usitatissimum) essential oil 1, 2 and 3% (v/w) were administered orally to estimate their anticoccidial effects compared to toltrazuril medicated, infected non-medicated, and non-infected non-medicated controls. Oocysts per gram of feces, oocyst score, fecal score, lesion score, feed conversion ratio, weight gain, complete blood profile, and liver and renal function-related serum parameters were evaluated. Analysis of variance and Tukey's post hoc test were used to compare the means and analyze statistically. The results showed that flaxseed essential oil had significant (p<0.05) anticoccidial activity in reducing oocysts per gram, oocyst score, fecal score, and lesion score. There was a significant decrease in mortalities, while weight gain and FCR were also improved by therapy of flaxseed essential oil at a concentration of 3%. Flaxseed essential oil also showed significant positive effects on red blood cell counts, packed cell volume, mean corpuscular hemoglobin, and hemoglobin concentration. Total proteins and albumins were significantly (p<0.05) increased by the flaxseed essential oil while other serum-related parameters remained in the normal range. The results suggest that the flaxseed essential oil can be used for the control of coccidiosis in broiler birds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A biogenic synthesis of Ag NPs adorned Helleborus niger extract-modified graphene oxidenanohybrid material has been demonstrated. Initially, the Helleborus niger extract was functionalized on the surface of graphene oxide. The polyphenolic groups of plant phytochemicals facilitated the green reduction of Ag ions as well as GO to afford the Ag/H.niger@rGO nanocomposite. The nanocomposite was characterized using FT-IR, FE-SEM, EDX, elemental mapping, TEM and XRDanalysis.Towards its application, it was found to be an efficient catalyst in the reductive degradation of toxic water pollutant organic dyes like Methylene blue (MB)and 4-nitrophenol (4-NP) over NaBH4 at room temperature. Time dependent UV–Vis spectroscopy was used to follow up the reactions which revealed that the reactions were completed within very short time (50–60 s). After the chemical applications we also explored the material biologically in the resistance of human colon cancer and thereby studied the cytotoxicity over two standard cell lines, HT-29 and Caco-2. The conventional MTT assay was carried out over them which revealed an increase in % cell viability dose dependently. In addition, DPPH radical scavenging test was performed for studying anti-oxidant activity. The IC50 values observed in the two cell lines were 368.2 μg/ml and 254.2 μg/ml respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ovarian cancer ranks seventh in the most common malignant tumors in females and seriously threatens women's reproductive health. Natural sources may lead to basic research on potential bioactive components as lead compounds in drug discovery and, ultimately, therapeutic treatments for ovarian cancer and other diseases. Alzheimer's disease (AD) and ovarian cancer are complex diseases of aging that impose an enormous public health burden worldwide. Additionally, people with AD have low levels of acetylcholine in their brains. Enzymes called cholinesterases break down acetylcholine in the brain. If their action is inhibited, more acetylcholine is available for communication among brain cells. In this study, pregnanolone, diethylstilbestrol (DES), flavokawain C, and methyl 3,4,5‐trihydroxybenzoate molecules obtained excellent‐to‐good inhibitory against acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and butyrylcholinesterase (BuChE) enzymes with IC50 values ranging between 77.18 ± 8.62 to 461.35 ± 28.54 μM for AChE and 23.86 ± 4.07 to 306.62 ± 32.46 μM for BuChE. The calculations revealed the probable interactions and their characteristics at an atomic level. Indeed, the docking scores of DES, flavokawain C, pregnanolone, and methyl 3,4,5‐trihydroxybenzoate for AChE are −6.685, −6.247, −6.672, and −5.183 (kcal/mol), respectively. This value for the compounds against BuChE is −6.042, −8.851, −5.655, and −5.898 (kcal/mol), respectively. Additionally, these compounds significantly decreased ovarian cancer cell viability. Additionally, 100 μM dose of all molecules caused good reductions in ovarian cancer cell viability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to investigate the major salivary glands in the southern white‐breasted hedgehog (Erinaceus concolor) histologically and histochemically. Five adult males were included in this study. The results showed that anatomically the shape of the parotid, submandibular and sublingual glands of the Erinaceus concolor was respectively almost pear, elliptical to pyramidal and oval. Histologically, the parotid gland had serous acini and secretory cells showed negative reaction to alcian blue (AB) (pH = 2.5) and negative response to aldehyde fuchsin (AF), methylene blue (MB) and PAS stains. The submandibular gland was a mixed gland of mucous and serous acini. The mucous acini were strongly positive for PAS, AB, MB and AF. However, serous acini were week for PAS and negative against AB, MB and AF stains. The sublingual gland was purely composed of mucous acini. The mucous acini of the sublingual gland were strongly positives for PAS, AB and MB methods. While their reaction to the AF staining was negative. In conclusion, the histological and histochemical observations of the major salivary glands of the southern white‐breasted hedgehog (E. concolor) indicated that these glands shown similarities and some special different histochemical features as compared to other mammalian species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Elicitors are stressors that activate secondary pathways that lead to the increased production of bioactive molecules in plants. Different elicitors including the fungus Aspergillus niger (0.2 g/L), methyl jasmonate (MeJA, 100 µM/L), and silver nanoparticles (1 µg/L) were added, individually and in combination, in a hydroponic medium. The application of these elicitors in hydroponic culture significantly increased the concentration of photosynthetic pigments and total phenolic contents. The treatment with MeJA (methyl jasmonate) (100 µM/L) and the co-treatment of MeJA and AgNPs (silver nanoparticles) (100 µM/L + 1 µg/L) exhibited the highest chlorophyll a (29 µg g−1 FW) and chlorophyll b (33.6 µg g−1 FW) contents, respectively. The elicitor MeJA (100 µM/L) gave a substantial rise in chlorophyll a and b and total chlorophyll contents. Likewise, a significant rise in carotenoid contents (9 µg/g FW) was also observed when subjected to meJA (100 µM/L). For the phenolic content, the treatment with meJA (100 µM/L) proved to be very effective. Nevertheless, the highest production (431 µg/g FW) was observed when treated with AgNPs (1 µg/L). The treatments with various elicitors in this study had a significant effect on flavonoid and lignin content. The highest concentration of flavonoids and lignin was observed when MeJA (100 mM) was used as an elicitor, following a 72-h treatment period. Hence, for different plant metabolites, the treatment with meJA (100 µM/L) and a co-treatment of MeJA and AgNPs (100 µM/L + 1 µg/L) under prolonged exposure times of 120–144 h proved to be the most promising in the accretion of valuable bioactive molecules. The study opens new insights into the use of these elicitors, individually or in combination, by using different concentrations and compositions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Type II diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a global health issue with high rate of prevalence. The inhibition of α-glucosidase enzyme has prime importance in the management of T2DM. This study was established to synthesize Schiff bases of 1,3-dipheny urea (3a–y) and to investigate their in vitro anti-diabetic capability via inhibiting α-glucosidase, a key player in the catabolism of carbohydrates. The structures of all compounds were confirmed through various techniques including, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and mass-spectrometry (MS) methods. Interestingly all these compounds displayed potent inhibition IC50 values in range of 2.14–115 µM as compared to acarbose used as control. Additionally, all the compounds were docked at the active site of α-glucosidase to predict their mode of binding. The docking results indicates that Glu277 and Asn350 play important role in the stabilization of these compounds in the active site of enzyme. These molecules showed excellent predicted pharmacokinetics, physicochemical and drug-likeness profile. The anti-diabetic potential of these molecules signifies their medical importance and provide insights into prospective therapeutic options for the treatment of T2DM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rice (Oryza sativa L.) is an important crop that is grown worldwide to supply the world's expanding food demand. In the current study, the effects of plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) and Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) on soil fertility and rice growth were explored. Rice plants were inoculated to evaluate how AMF fungi and PGPR affect various aspects of soil and plants, implicating abiotic stress tolerances. The experiment was carried out in a completely randomized design with three replicates under the controlled conditions. Results depicted that the plants that were inoculated with a mixture of AMF and PGPR had better yields and nutritional concentrations, while both AMF and PGPR lowered soil pH and organic matter differently. Similarly, AMF and PGPR treatments significantly increased the amount of N, P, K, and B in the post-harvest soil. The PGPR-inoculated plants had a 10–40% higher buildup of N in their tissues. Similarly, when they were compared with non-infected plants, AMF-inoculated treatments demonstrated a greater N accumulation in the rice tissue. The maximum P content in plant tissues was 0.149% in PGPR5-infected plants, either alone or in combination with AMF. In T12, AMF + PGPR5 inoculated rice plants, the maximum K uptake was 1.98%, which was 54% higher than the control treatment. The sole application of AMF raised K buildup in rice tissues by 38% compared with the control treatment. The improved productivity of plants with AMF and PGPR (especially with PGPR5) was attributed to the increased availability of nutrients in the soil. As a result, rice plant growth, yield, and essential element uptakes were boosted significantly. The present study's results suggested using the combined application of AMF + PGPR5 for improving the rice yield and for sustaining the soil health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Profound inspection of the life forms on the earth teaches how to be the complexity of interrelationships among the various systems. Because of the emergence of novel viruses all the time and the inadequate of vaccines and antivirals, viral contagions are amongst the most causative diseases affecting people worldwide. Fungi exemplify a massive source of bioactive molecules as, many fungal secondary metabolities like Oxoglyantrypine, Carneic acid F, Scedapin C, Asteltoxin E, Phomanolide, Norquinadoline A and Quinadoline B have antiviral activity. This review deals with how secondary metabolites of fungi can help in the war against viruses in general and especially Coronaviruses moreover several pieces of literature pointed out that many clusters of fungi in different biotopes are waiting to be exploited. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rhizoctonia solani is a species complex composed of many genetically diverse anastomosis groups (AG) and their subgroups. It causes economically important diseases of soybean worldwide. However, the global genetic diversity and distribution of R. solani AG associated with soybean are unknown to date. In this study, the global genetic diversity and distribution of AG associated with soybean were investigated based on rDNA-ITS sequences deposited in GenBank and published literature. The most prevalent AG, was AG-1 (40%), followed by AG-2 (19.13%), AG-4 (11.30%), AG-7 (10.43%), AG-11 (8.70%), AG-3 (5.22%) and AG-5 (3.48%). Most of the AG were reported from the USA and Brazil. Sequence analysis of internal transcribed spacers of ribosomal DNA separated AG associated with soybean into two distinct clades. Clade I corresponded to distinct subclades containing AG-2, AG-3, AG-5, AG-7 and AG-11. Clade II corresponded to subclades of AG-1 subgroups. Furthermore, AG and/or AG subgroups were in close proximity without corresponding to their geographical origin. Moreover, AG or AG subgroups within clade or subclades shared higher percentages of sequence similarities. The principal coordinate analysis also supported the phylogenetic and genetic diversity analyses. In conclusion, AG-1, AG-2, and AG-4 were the most prevalent AG in soybean. The clade or subclades corresponded to AG or AG subgroups and did not correspond to the AG's geographical origin. The information on global genetic diversity and distribution will be helpful if novel management measures are to be developed against soybean diseases caused by R. solani. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • NCD-ChNPs prolong NCD circulation and residence time. • NCD-ChNPs enhance hepatic localization of NCD. • NCD-ChNps show pH-sensitive release, targeting inflamed liver tissues. • NCD-ChNPs inhibit NFκB, NLRP3 activation, reducing IL-1β release. • NCD-ChNPs improve liver function, reduce inflammation and oxidative stress. Liver inflammatory diseases are marked by serious complications. Notably, nicardipine (NCD) has demonstrated anti-inflammatory properties, but its benefits in liver inflammation have not been studied yet. However, the therapeutic efficacy of NCD is limited by its short half-life and low bioavailability. Therefore, we aimed to evaluate the potential of NCD-loaded chitosan nanoparticles (ChNPs) to improve its pharmacokinetic profile and hepatic accumulation. Four formulations of NCD-ChNPs were synthesized and characterized. The optimal formulation (NP2) exhibited a mean particle diameter of 172.6 ± 1.94 nm, a surface charge of +25.66 ± 0.93 mV, and an encapsulation efficiency of 88.86 ± 1.17 %. NP2 showed good physical stability as a lyophilized powder over three months. It displayed pH-sensitive release characteristics, releasing 77.15 ± 5.09 % of NCD at pH 6 (mimicking the inflammatory microenvironment) and 52.15 ± 3.65 % at pH 7.4, indicating targeted release in inflamed liver tissues. Pharmacokinetic and biodistribution studies revealed that NCD-ChNPs significantly prolonged NCD circulation time and enhanced its concentration in liver tissues compared to plain NCD. Additionally, the study investigated the protective effects of NCD-ChNPs in thioacetamide-induced liver injury in rats by modulating the NFκB/NLRP3/IL-1β signaling axis. NCD-ChNPs effectively inhibited NFκB activation, reduced NLRP3 inflammasome activation, and subsequent release of IL-1β, which correlated with improved hepatic function and reduced inflammation and oxidative stress. These findings highlight the potential of NCD-ChNPs as a promising nanomedicine strategy for the treatment of liver inflammatory diseases, warranting further investigation into their clinical applications, particularly in hypertensive patients with liver inflammatory conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Doxorubicin (DOX) is an anthracycline chemotherapy drug widely employed in the treatment of various cancers, known for its potent antineoplastic properties but often associated with dose-dependent cardiotoxicity, limiting its clinical use. This review explores the complex molecular details that determine the heart-protective effectiveness of carvedilol in relation to cardiotoxicity caused by DOX. The harmful effects of DOX on heart cells could include oxidative stress, DNA damage, iron imbalance, disruption of autophagy, calcium imbalance, apoptosis, dysregulation of topoisomerase 2-beta, arrhythmogenicity, and inflammatory responses. This review carefully reveals how carvedilol serves as a strong protective mechanism, strategically reducing each aspect of cardiac damage caused by DOX. Carvedilol's antioxidant capabilities involve neutralizing free radicals and adjusting crucial antioxidant enzymes. It skillfully manages iron balance, controls autophagy, and restores the calcium balance essential for cellular stability. Moreover, the anti-apoptotic effects of carvedilol are outlined through the adjustment of Bcl-2 family proteins and activation of the Akt signaling pathway. The medication also controls topoisomerase 2-beta and reduces the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system, together offering a thorough defense against cardiotoxicity induced by DOX. These findings not only provide detailed understanding into the molecular mechanisms that coordinate heart protection by carvedilol but also offer considerable potential for the creation of targeted treatment strategies intended to relieve cardiotoxicity caused by chemotherapy. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Profound inspection of the life forms on the earth teaches how to be the complexity of interrelationships among the various systems. Because of the emergence of novel viruses all the time and the inadequate of vaccines and antivirals, viral contagions are amongst the most causative diseases affecting people worldwide. Fungi exemplify a massive source of bioactive molecules as, many fungal secondary metabolities like Oxoglyantrypine, Carneic acid F, Scedapin C, Asteltoxin E, Phomanolide, Norquinadoline A and Quinadoline B have antiviral activity. This review deals with how secondary metabolites of fungi can help in the war against viruses in general and especially Coronaviruses moreover several pieces of literature pointed out that many clusters of fungi in different biotopes are waiting to be exploited. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Salinity stress (SS) is serious abiotic stress and a major limiting factor for crop productivity and global food security. In this context, the application of osmolytes is considered as an environmental friend approach to improve plant growth under SS. Thus, the present study was conducted to determine the impact of foliar applied proline (Pro) and acetic acid (AA) on growth, yield, physiological traits, photosynthetic pigments, ionic homeostasis and antioxidant activities of wheat under SS. The study contained SS levels 0, 6 and 12 dS m-1 and foliar spray of Pro and AA; water spray, Pro (75 mM), AA (15 mM) and AA (30 mM). The study was conducted in a completely randomized design with the factorial arrangement. Salinity stress significantly reduced wheat growth and yield, by decreasing relative water contents (-49.07%), photosynthetic pigments, free amino acids (FAA: -44.79%), total soluble proteins (TSP: -15.94%) and increasing the electrolyte leakage (EL: +27.28%), hydrogen peroxide (H2O2: +51.86%), and malondialdehyde (MDA: +36.91%) accumulation. The foliar spray of Pro and AA markedly improved the wheat growth and productivity through enhanced photosynthetic pigments, RWC, FAA, TSP, antioxidant activities (catalase: CAT, ascorbate peroxide: APX: peroxidase: POD), K+ and Ca2+ uptake and decreasing EL, MDA and H2O2 accumulation and restricted entry of toxic ions (Na+ and Cl-1). Therefore, foliar application of AA and Pro effectively improves the growth and yield of wheat under SS by strengthening the antioxidant defense system, and maintaining ionic homeostasis and physiological performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sorafenib is a multikinase inhibitor employed for managing hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The emergence of sorafenib resistance presents an obstacle to its therapeutic efficacy. One notable approach to overcoming sorafenib resistance is the exploration of combination therapies. The role of hedgehog signaling in sorafenib resistance has been also examined in HCC. R51211, known as itraconazole, has been safely employed in clinical practice. Through in vitro and in vivo investigations, we assessed the potential of R51211 to enhance the therapeutic efficacy of sorafenib by inhibiting the hedgehog signaling. The zero-interaction potency synergy model demonstrated a synergistic interaction between R51211 and sorafenib, a phenomenon reversed by the action of a smoothened receptor agonist. This dual therapy exhibited an increased capacity to induce apoptosis, as evidenced by alterations in the Bax/BCL-2 ratio and caspase-3, along with a propensity to promote autophagy, as indicated by changes in BECN1, p62, and the LC3I/LC3II ratio. Furthermore, the combination therapy resulted in significant reductions in biomarkers associated with liver preneoplastic alterations, improved liver microstructure, and mitigated changes in liver function enzymes. The substantial decrease in hedgehog components (Shh, SMO, GLI1, and GLI2) following R51211 treatment appears to be a key factor contributing to the increased efficacy of sorafenib. In conclusion, our study highlights the potential of R51211 as an adjunct to sorafenib, introducing a new dimension to this combination therapy through the modulation of the hedgehog signaling pathway. Further investigations are essential to validate the therapeutic efficacy of this combined approach in inhibiting the development of liver cancer. • R51211 and sorafenib effectively repressed DENA-induced liver neoplastic alterations. • R51211 exhibited a substantial decrease in hedgehog components. • Hedgehog inhibition is a key factor contributed to the increased efficacy of sorafenib. • R51211 and sorafenib demonstrated increased capacity to induce apoptosis. • R51211 and sorafenib demonstrated a propensity to promote autophagy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• In situ synthesis of Ag NP-adorned guar gum functionalized Fe 3 O 4 nanocomposite. • FE-SEM, TEM, EDS-elemental mapping, XRD, and ICP techniques used to assess the structural and physicochemical characteristics. • In the catalytic application the 4-nitrophenol (4-NP) was reduced over the Fe 3 O 4 @guar gum/Ag NPs as a nanocatalyst. • catalyst sustainability was assessed by its recyclable properties in seven further without significant degradation activity. • MTT assay used to evaluate bio-application of the nanocomposite for in vitro anticancer investigation againstAN3-CAendometrial cell lines. In situ synthesis of Ag nanoparticle-adorned guar gum functionalized Fe 3 O 4 nanocomposite (Fe 3 O 4 @guar gum/Agnanocomposite) and its subsequent catalytic and biological uses are described in this research along with a sustainable approach for the process. FE-SEM, TEM, EDS-elemental mapping, XRD, and ICP were among the analytical techniques used to assess the structural and physicochemical characteristics of this unique material. In the catalytic application the reduction of 4-nitrophenol (4-NP) was carried out using freshly generated Fe 3 O 4 @guar gum/Ag NPs as a nanocatalyst. To monitor the reduction process, a UV–Vis spectrophotometer was utilized. We evaluated this catalyst's sustainability using its recyclable properties in seven further cycles and the findings indicated a consistent and significant degradation activity.Additionally, the MTT assay wasused to expand the bio-application of the nanocomposite for in vitro anticancer investigation againstAN3-CAendometrial cell lines. In presence of the material, the malignant endometrial cell line's cell survival decreased in a dose-dependent manner. The nanocomposite was shown to have IC 50 values of 87 μg/mL when it cameto the AN3-CA cell line. Given the remarkable outcomes the created nanocomposite demonstrated, cancer management might look very promising in the near future. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An extensive range of new biologically active morpholine based thiosemicarbazones derivatives 3a-r were synthesized, characterized by spectral techniques and evaluated as inhibitors of ENPP isozymes. Most of the novel thiosemicarbazones exhibit potent inhibition towards NPP1 and NPP3 isozymes. Compound 3 h was potent inhibitor of NPP1 with IC 50 value of 0.55 ± 0.02. However, the most powerful inhibitor of NPP3 was 3e with an IC 50 value of 0.24 ± 0.02. Furthermore, Lineweaver-Burk plot for compound 3 h against NPP1 and for compound 3e against NPP3 was devised through enzymes kinetics studies. Molecular docking and in silico studies was also done for analysis of interaction pattern of all newly synthesized compounds. The results were further validated by molecular dynamic (MD) simulation where the stability of conformational transformation of the best protein-ligand complex (3e) were justified on the basis of RMSD and RMSF analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An extensive range of new biologically active morpholine based thiosemicarbazones derivatives 3a-r were synthesized, characterized by spectral techniques and evaluated as inhibitors of ENPP isozymes. Most of the novel thiosemicarbazones exhibit potent inhibition towards NPP1 and NPP3 isozymes. Compound 3 h was potent inhibitor of NPP1 with IC 50 value of 0.55 ± 0.02. However, the most powerful inhibitor of NPP3 was 3e with an IC 50 value of 0.24 ± 0.02. Furthermore, Lineweaver-Burk plot for compound 3 h against NPP1 and for compound 3e against NPP3 was devised through enzymes kinetics studies. Molecular docking and in silico studies was also done for analysis of interaction pattern of all newly synthesized compounds. The results were further validated by molecular dynamic (MD) simulation where the stability of conformational transformation of the best protein-ligand complex (3e) were justified on the basis of RMSD and RMSF analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is well known that silver nanoparticles are a good candidate to be antifungal agent against wide range of plant pathogenic fungi. The objective of this work is to examine the impact of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) synthesized from Aizoon canariense L. aqueous fresh leaf extract as antifungal agent. The formation of AgNPs from leaf extracts are confirmed using Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy analysis (FTIR), UV-visible spectrophotometer (UV-visible), X-Ray Diffraction (XRD) and Scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The AgNPs from fresh cold and hot water extracts of A. canariense leaf exhibited highest absorption at 444 and 426 nm, respectively, through ultraviolet visible spectroscopy. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy has verified the transformation of Ag+ ions to AgNPs owing to the reduction by capping material of aqueous plant extract. The X-RD pattern revealed the presence of crystalline having size ranging from 12.95 to 10.83 nm for cold and hot aqueous extract, respectively, based on FWHM of the diffraction peaks. SEM showed that the synthesized AgNPs are semi spherical with an average size between (42 and 183 nm) for NPs from cold water and (29 and 138 nm) for NPs from hot water extracts based on SMILEVIEW software. The synthesized silver nanoparticles from hot water extract showed higher antifungal action than cold water extract in the range between 10.17 and 19.85% against Alternaria alternate, Drechslera halodes, Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. lycopersici, Penicillium expansum, Rhizoctonia solani, Pythium ultimum, and Macrophomina phaseolina. These findings may suggest A. canariense aqueous fresh leaf extract could be applied as a natural solution for biosynthesizing AgNPs as eco-friendly antifungal drug against plant pathogenic fungi. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper records 6 species of phytoplankton under the class Chlorophyceae namely, Pteromonas golenkiniana Pascher belonging to Family Phacotaceae; Pediastrum biradiatum var. biradiatum Meyen.belonging to Family Hydrodictyaceae; Scenedesmus alternas var. indicus Hortob. and Scenedesmus quadricauda var. inermis Playfair belonging to Family Scenedesmaceae ; Teilingia excavata (Rafls) Bourelly and Cosmarium vexatum W. West var. vexatum W. West belonging to Family Desmidaceae from Sylhet Division of Bangladesh which are all new records for Bangladesh. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Food additives and flavour enhancers used in the food industry are potential health risks. We tested the hypothesis that the food additive and flavour enhancer, monosodium glutamate (MSG), which is the sodium salt of glutamic acid can induce ultrastructural alterations to the kidney, and the antioxidant vitamin E can protect against acute kidney injuries induced by a toxic dose of MSG in a rat model of the disease. The model group of rats received a daily dose of MSG (4 gm/kg) for 7 days, whereas the protective groups were either received a 100 mg/kg vitamin E plus MSG or 300 mg/kg vitamin E plus MSG for 7 days. Rats were then sacrificed on day 8. Transmission and light microscopy images revealed substantial kidney damage induced by MSG in the model group as demonstrated by degenerated epithelial cells with Pyknotic nuclei, swollen mitochondria, damaged brush margins, dilated tubules, and widening of Bowman's space with shrinkage and deformity of some glomeruli. Treatment of the model group with vitamin E showed a substantial protection of kidney tissue and renal ultrastructure by 300 mg/kg vitamin E compared to a partial protection by 100 mg/kg vitamin E. In addition, MSG significantly (p<0.05) increased serum levels of urea and creatinine, which were significantly (p<0.05) decreased with vitamin E. However, for serum creatinine, high doses of vitamin E (300 mg/kg) were more effective than lower doses (100 mg/kg) of vitamin E. These results indicate that vitamin E at 300 mg/kg effectively protects against MSG-induced acute kidney injury in rats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Food additives such as nitrates and nitrites, and monosodium glutamate (MSG) used in the food industry increase the risk of certain cancers and inflict damage to vital organs. We sought to determine whether the antioxidant vitamin E can protect against liver injuries induced by a toxic dose of MSG in a rat model of MSG-induced acute liver injury. The model group of rats received a daily dose of MSG (4 gm/kg) for 7 days, whereas the protective groups were either received a 100 mg/kg vitamin E plus MSG or 300 mg/kg vitamin E plus MSG for 7 days. Rats were then sacrificed at day 8. Transmission and light microscopy images revealed substantial liver tissue damage induced by MSG in the model group as demonstrated by apoptotic hepatocytes with Pyknotic nuclei and irregular nuclear membrane, and cytoplasm displayed many vacuoles, swollen mitochondria, dilated endoplasmic reticulum, dilated blood sinusoids and bundles of collagen fibers in extracellular space. Treatment of the model group with vitamin E showed a substantial protection of liver tissue and hepatocellular architecture by 300 mg/kg vitamin E compared to a partial protection by 100 mg/kg vitamin E. In addition, MSG significantly (p <.05) modulated serum levels of alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and glutathione peroxidase (GPx), which were significantly (p <.05) protected with vitamin E. Thus, vitamin E at 300 mg/kg effectively protects against MSG-induced acute liver injury in rats, possibly via the inhibition of inflammation, and up-regulation of endogenous antioxidants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]