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Writing an effective manuscript is one of the pivotal steps in the successful closure of the research project, and getting it published in a peer-reviewed and indexed journal adds to the academic profile of a researcher. Writing and publishing a scientific paper is a tough task that researchers and academicians must endure in staying relevant in the field. Success in translating the benchworks into the scientific content, which is effectively communicated within the scientific field, is used in evaluating the researcher in the current academic world. Writing is a highly time-consuming and skill-oriented process that requires familiarity with the numerous publishing steps, formatting rules, and ethical guidelines currently in vogue in the publishing industry. In this review, we have attempted to include the essential information that novice authors in their early careers need to possess, to be able to write a decent first scientific manuscript ready for submission in the journal of choice. This review is unique in providing essential guidance in a simple point-wise manner in conjunction with easy-to-understand illustrations to familiarize novice researchers with the anatomy of a basic scientific manuscript. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Metabolomics is a comprehensive analysis of metabolites existing in biological systems. As one of the important "omics" tools, the approach has been widely employed in various fields in helping to better understand the complex cellular metabolic states and changes. Bacterial metabolomics has gained a significant interest as bacteria serve to provide a better subject or model at systems level. The approach in metabolomics is categorized into untargeted and targeted which serves different paradigms of interest. Nevertheless, the bottleneck in metabolomics has been the sample or metabolite preparation method. A custom-made method and design for a particular species or strain of bacteria might be necessary as most studies generally refer to other bacteria or even yeast and fungi that may lead to unreliable analysis. The paramount aspect of metabolomics design comprises sample harvesting, quenching, and metabolite extraction procedures. Depending on the type of samples and research objective, each step must be at optimal conditions which are significantly important in determining the final output. To date, there are no standardized nor single designated protocols that have been established for a specific bacteria strain for untargeted and targeted approaches. In this paper, the existing and current developments of sample preparation methods of bacterial metabolomics used in both approaches are reviewed. The review also highlights previous literature of optimized conditions used to propose the most ideal methods for metabolite preparation, particularly for bacterial cells. Advantages and limitations of methods are discussed for future improvement of bacterial metabolomics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the context of the valorisation of edible mushrooms from the province of Taza, Morocco, the present study, carried out for the first time, aims to evaluate the mineral composition, phenolic content, antibacterial activity and self‐preservation potential of wild Morchella esculenta (L.) Pers. from Taza. Inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectrometry (ICP‐AES) determined the mineral salt content. We performed aqueous extractions using decoction, infusion and maceration, as well as hot and cold organic extractions with ethanol, acetone and diethyl ether. We then carried out a qualitative and quantitative analyses of the chemical composition. The antibacterial activity of the aqueous and organic extracts was studied using the disc diffusion method and by determining minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) and bactericidal concentrations (MBCs). Principal component analysis (PCA) was used to analyse the correlation between the chemical composition and antibacterial activity. Mineral analysis showed that the mushroom is rich in minerals, especially K (3578.4), Fe (2969.16), P (1818.66) and Mg (183.657) mg/kg dry matter. Quantitative analysis showed that the diethyl ether extract had the highest flavonoid content (846.07 ± 1.87 mgEQ/gE), the aqueous macerated extract was the richest in polyphenols (20.51 ± 0.45 mg EAG/gE) and the acetone extract had the highest catechic tannin content (17.13 ± 1.10 mgEC/gE). A study on antibacterial activity demonstrated that the decocted was bactericidal against Proteus mirabilis, while the aqueous macerated extract was bactericidal against Bacillus subtilis. The macerated diethyl ether extract was bacteriostatic against Proteus mirabilis, whereas the ethanolic extract was bactericidal against Staphylococcus aureus. This study showed that this mushroom is abundant in minerals and phenolic compounds, demonstrating its nutritional and therapeutic interest. In addition, this mushroom has antibacterial potential, which provides it the ability to protect itself against infection by pathogenic bacteria during storage and commercialization. PCA correlated the richest extracts in phenolic compounds and antibacterial activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Woodfordia uniflora is a medicinal plant used for the treatment of malaria, toothache, and stomach problems. The root parts of the plant are also used for healing liver disorders. Silica gel chromatography separation of CH2Cl2/MeOH (1:1) and MeOH extracts of roots of W. uniflora result in the isolation of three compounds, namely, bergenin (1), β‐sitosterol (2), and epigallocatechin 3‐gallate (3), reported herein for the first time from the plant. The structure of the isolated compounds was elucidated using NMR (1D and 2D) techniques. Disk diffusion and DPPH assay were used to evaluate the antibacterial and antioxidant activities, respectively. Molecular docking was done by the AutoDock Vina 4.2 program. The pharmacokinetics and toxicity profile of compounds were predicted by Swiss ADME and Pro Tox II online servers. GC‐MS analysis roots of W. uniflora result in the identification of five compounds, of which palmitic acid (34.9%) was the major constituent. The antibacterial activity result indicated that the oil extract had promising activity against P. aeruginosa, E. coli, S. pyogenes, and S. aureus with IZ of 14.3 ± 0.81, 15.0 ± 0.0, 15.6 ± 0.47, and 17.6 ± 0.47 mm, respectively, at 5 mg/mL, compared to ciprofloxacin (1Z 27–30.0 ± 0.0 mm) at 30 μg/mL. MeOH and CH2Cl2/MeOH (1:1) extract showed inhibition against E. coli (IZ of 13.6 ± 0.47 mm) and P. aeruginosa (IZ of 10.0 ± 0.0 mm), respectively, at 200 mg/mL. Bergenin (1) and β‐sitosterol (2) also displayed maximum inhibition of E. coil (IZ of 11.6 ± 0.47) and S. aureus (11.0 ± 0.0 mm), respectively, at 5 mg/mL. The antioxidant activity results showed that CH2Cl2/MeOH (1:1) and MeOH extracts, bergenin (1), and compound 3 displayed potent scavenging DPPH radical with a percentage of inhibition of 76.8 ± 0.12, 77.8 ± 0.08, 71.4 ± 0.08, and 91.2 ± 0.16, respectively, compared to ascorbic acid (93.2% ± 0.04%) at 100 μg/mL. The molecular docking analysis showed that all compounds (1–3) exhibited minimum binding energy toward PDB ID: 1HD2 (−5.2 to −6.3 kcal/mol), compared to ascorbic acid (−5.6 kcal/mol), and toward PDB ID: 1DNU (−8.0 to −10.7 kcal/mol) receptors, compared to ascorbic acid (−5.7 kcal/mol). Toward the PDB ID: 4FM9 receptor, β‐sitosterol (2) and compound 3 exhibited the best binding free energy of −9.1 and −9.8 kcal·mol, respectively, compared to vosaroxin (−7.8 kcal/mol). The drug‐likeness analysis result indicated that bergenin (1) and β‐sitosterol (2) obeyed four and five criteria of Lipinski's rule, respectively, and are more likely to be administered orally. The in silico toxicity analysis showed none of the compounds would be cytotoxic, mutagenic, or hepatotoxic. The in vitro antioxidant and antibacterial results supported by in silico analysis demonstrated that the roots of W. uniflora have the potential to be therapeutic agents for bacterial infections and free radical–inducing diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cellulase is a biocatalyst that hydrolyzes cellulosic biomass and is considered a major group of industrial enzymes for its applications. Extensive work has been done on microbial cellulase but fungi are considered a novel strain for their maximum cellulase production. Production cost and novel microbial strains are major challenges for its improvement where cheap agro wastes can be essential sources of cellulose as substrates. The researcher searches for more cellulolytic microbes from natural sources but the production level of isolated strains is comparatively low. So genetic modification or mutation can be employed for large-scale cellulase production before optimization. After genetic modification than in silico molecular modeling can be evaluated for substrate molecule's binding affinity. In this review, we focus not only on the conventional methods of cellulase production but also on modern biotechnological approaches applied to cellulase production by a sequential study on common cellulase-producing microbes, modified microbes, culture media, carbon sources, substrate pretreatment process, and the importance of optimum pH and temperature on fermentation. In this review, we also compare different cellulase activity determination methods. As a result, this review provides insights into the interrelationship between the characteristics of optimizing different culture conditions, genetic modification, and in silico enzyme modeling for the production of cellulase enzymes, which may aid in the advancement of large-scale integrated enzyme manufacturing of substrate-specific enzymes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lignocellulosic biomass (LCB) comprising of wheat bran, coconut husk, rice husk, cereals straw, and other hardwood and softwoods is a good source for the production of xylooligosaccharides (XOS) (prebiotic). XOS produced are nondigestible carbohydrates being stable under stomach pH and digestive enzymes so they can be easily delivered to the intestine in native form, thus stimulating the growth of probiotics. Here we review about the raw material, production, purification, and application of XOS with health benefits. Importance of XOS being valuable food ingredient is increasing as they perform a variety of functions, including reduction in cholesterol levels, gastrointestinal health maintenance, anticancer and antioxidant properties, and modulation of immune system. We also discuss the different characterization methods which are necessary to determine the degree of polymerization (DP) of XOS. Low DP (xylobiose and xylotriose) is usually preferred for the application of XOS in various sectors. This review emphasizes the growing significance of XOS as a prebiotic, serving as nourishment for probiotics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background:Moringa oleifera leaf is used for diabetes due to its pharmacologic effects. Patients with hyperglycemia experience beta cell destruction. However, no research on risk awareness has been done to ascertain its safety. The present study describes the antidiabetic effect of Moringa oleifera leaf, such as the protection of pancreatic beta cells and the induction of glycogen synthesis, before addressing the secondary effects of diabetes, such as hepatic and renal toxicity. Methods: Forty‐five Wistar rats weighed 160 ± 10 g were divided into nine groups. All animal operations complied with the National Institute of Health (NIH) guidelines for the care and use of laboratory animals as approved by the Animal Ethical Committee, University of Jos. Group I was normal control and Group II was diabetic animals induced with alloxan. Insulin and extract doses of 200, 400, and 800 mg/kg were given to diabetic Groups III‐VI. Normal animals in Groups VII–IX were given extract at doses of 200, 400, and 800 mg/kg for 28 days. Tissues were retrieved for biochemical and histological investigations using standard techniques. Results: There was decrease relative body weight of diabetic animals (95.50 ± 5.50) when compared to normal control (142.75 ± 20.08) with increased levels of urea (control 6.13 ± 0.523 and diabetes 29.23 ± 1.267) and creatinine (control 0.70 ± 0.057 and diabetes 2.13 ± 0.185). Histology of the liver and pancreas also points to organ damage due to hyperglycemia. However, oral administration of extract showed antidiabetic effect with protection of pancreatic beta cells and the induction of glycogen synthesis, no glycogen was deposited in the liver, addressing the secondary effects of diabetes, such as hepatic and renal toxicity. Further discovery revealed that extract elevated antioxidant enzyme expression. Conclusion: Leaf extract from Moringa oleifera reduces blood sugar and lessens the damage caused by hyperglycemia in the pancreas and liver. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The study investigates the antioxidant properties of Catharanthus roseus, focusing on identifying its antioxidant compounds and chemical constituents. We compare antioxidant activities across its root, stem, flower, and leaf and examine the inhibition of reactive oxygen species (ROS)–generating enzymes by the plant's phytocompounds. Methods: We conducted a comprehensive analysis that included proximate analysis, mineral content assessment, and in vitro antioxidant characterization of various plant parts—root, stem, flower, and leaf. The levels of bioactive phytochemicals in both ethanol and mixed‐solvent extracts of Catharanthus roseus were quantified using high‐performance liquid chromatography with a diode array detector (HPLC‐DAD). Additionally, we performed molecular docking studies to explore the interactions of quantified phytocompounds. Results: HPLC‐DAD analysis quantified catechin hydrate, catechol, (−) epicatechin, rutin hydrate, trans‐cinnamic acid, quercetin, vanillic acid, kaempferol, and trans‐ferulic acid in Catharanthus roseus. Despite the ethanol extract having higher total antioxidant properties and flavonoid content, the mixed‐solvent extract exhibited higher EC50 for reducing power and lower IC50 for ABTS, 2,2‐diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), and metal chelating activities. Molecular docking studies indicated that compounds such as catechin, rutin, epicatechin, quercetin, and kaempferol significantly inhibit the ROS‐generating enzyme microsomal prostaglandin E synthase 1 (mPGES‐1). Conclusions: The mixed‐solvent extract had higher levels of catechin hydrate, rutin hydrate, trans‐ferulic acid, and vanillic acid, whereas the ethanol extract contained more (−) epicatechin, catechol, kaempferol, quercetin, and trans‐cinnamic acid. While the extracts displayed antioxidant activity, the phytoconstituents also inhibited ROS‐generating mPGES‐1. These results identify key compounds with potential for developing new chemotherapeutic agents against ROS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper deals with the purification of four proteins from Euphorbia characias latex, a copper amine oxidase, a nucleotide pyrophosphatase/phosphodiesterase, a peroxidase, and a purple acid phosphatase. These proteins, very different in molecular weight, in primary structure, and in the catalyzed reaction, are purified using identical preliminary steps of purification and by chromatographic methods. In particular, the DEAE-cellulose chromatography is used as a useful purification step for all the four enzymes. The purification methods here reported allow to obtain a high purification of all the four proteins with a good yield. This paper will give some thorough suggestions for researchers busy in separation of macromolecules from different sources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction. In Ethiopia, different medicinal plants have been claimed and used to treat diarrheal diseases. However, these claimed effects for most medicinal plants have not been scientifically verified. One of such plants in Ethiopian folkloric medicine is Moringa stenopetala, which is usually consumed as a vegetable in southern Ethiopia. Thus, this study aimed to evaluate the antidiarrheal and antisecretory effects of 80% methanolic leaf extract of Moringa stenopetala in different mice models. Method. Using Swiss albino mice, castor oil-induced diarrhea, charcoal meal-based gastrointestinal motility, and castor oil-induced secretion models were employed to assess antidiarrheal activity. In all of the test models, animals were randomly assigned into five groups consisting of six animals in each group. Group I received 0.5 ml of the vehicle (2% tween-80), while group II was treated with standard drug (3 mg/kg loperamide) in the respective models, whereas groups III to V received 150, 300, and 450 mg/kg of the methanolic leaf extracts of Moringa stenopetala. Onset, frequency, consistency, and weight of stool (diarrhea) were recorded, and different parameters and percentage proportions were calculated. Data were analyzed using one-way ANOVA followed by Tukey's test, and p < 0.05 was considered statistically significant at 95% confidence of interval. Result. In the castor oil-induced diarrheal model, the percentage inhibition of diarrhea was 48.5, 58.6, and 60% for the respective doses of 150, 300, and 450 mg/kg of the extract. And, the extract showed a 36.8, 54.4, and 55.9% reduction of peristalsis in charcoal meal-based gastrointestinal motility test compared to the negative control group. Moreover, in the antisecretory assay, the 150, 300, and 450 mg/kg doses of MEMS inhibited fluid contents of the stool by 11.5, 54.54, and 61.82%, respectively, relative to the vehicle-treated group. Conclusion. The findings revealed that the 80% methanolic leaf extract of Moringa stenopetala extract has shown antidiarrheal activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ziziphus spina-christi (Rhamnaceae family) is a medicinal plant traditionally used to treat dandruff, wounds, hair loss, diarrhea, mastitis, abdominal pain, and gastrointestinal complications. To support this, the present work aims to study the in vitro antibacterial and antioxidant activities of compound isolates from the roots of Ziziphus spina-christi along with their in silico computational analyses. Compounds were isolated on silica gel column chromatography and an agar disc diffusion and DPPH radical scavenging assays were employed to study the antibacterial and antioxidant activities, respectively. The ADME and toxicity properties of the compounds were evaluated using SwissADME and ProTox‐II online Web tools, respectively. Conversely, the in silico molecular docking studies were attained via a Biovia Discovery Studio Visualizer 2021 in combination with the AutoDock Vina software. The silica gel chromatographic separation of the combined CH2Cl2 : CH3OH (1 : 1) and CH3OH root extracts afforded trimethyl trilinolein (1), stearic acid (2), 13‐hydroxyoctadeca‐9, 11‐dienoic acid (3), β‐sitosteryl‐3β‐glucopyranoside‐6′‐O‐palmitate (4), and stigmasterol (5). Notably, the in vitro antibacterial study revealed the extract and β‐sitosteryl‐3β‐glucopyranoside‐6′‐O‐palmitate (4) with the highest inhibitory activities (15.25 ± 0.35 and 14.25 ± 0.35 mm, respectively) against E. coli compared to ciprofloxacin (21.00 ± 0.35 mm) at 2 mg/mL. The CH2Cl2 : CH3OH (1 : 1) extract (IC50 : 1.51 µg/mL) and β‐sitosteryl‐3β‐glucopyranoside‐6′‐O‐palmitate (4) (IC50 : 5.41 µg/mL) also exhibited auspicious DPPH scavenging activities, followed by stigmasterol (5) (IC50 : 6.88 µg/mL) compared to the ascorbic acid standard (IC50 : 0.46 µg/mL). The molecular docking analyses unveiled the highest binding affinity by β‐sitosteryl‐3β‐glucopyranoside‐6′‐O‐palmitate (4) (−8.0 kcal/mol) against P. aeruginosa PqsA relative to the ciprofloxacin standard (−8.2 kcal/mol). Furthermore, the organ toxicity predictions showed that all the compounds exhibit no hepatotoxicity and cytotoxicity effects and stigmasterol (5) affords drug‐likeness protocols. Overall, the combined experimental and computational investigations of this study support the traditional uses of Ziziphus spina-christi for antibacterial and natural antioxidant applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The plant Hydnora johannis has been utilized in folk medicine. Analyzing phytochemical composition of dichloromethane/methanol (1 : 1) root part of Hydnora johannis gave oleic acid (1), caffeic acid‐2‐hydroxynonylester (2), catechin (3), and a pregnane derivative (4). NMR spectroscopy was used to characterize compounds 1–3, while compound 4 was identified through GC‐MS analysis and literature comparison. The cytotoxicity of extracts from roots of H. johannis was conducted against MCF‐7 cell lines (human breast cancer) by MTT assay. According to the cytotoxicity study, n‐hexane extract exhibited a high level of toxicity with 28.9 ± 5.6% cell viability. Antibacterial activity was tested against Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus, and Streptococcus pyogen. The highest bacterial growth mean inhibition zone was measured for catechin (3) (13.72 ± 0.05 mm)) against P. aeruginosa at 0.25 mg/mL and acceptable related to standard. Antioxidant activity was studied by the DPPH assay. Based on the data from the antioxidant study, DCM/MeOH extract (70.32%) and catechin (3) showed good antioxidant activity (65.61%) (IC50 0.25 μg/mL) relative to that of the positive control (78.21%, IC50 0.014 μg/mL) at 12.5 μg/mL. In each docking pose, catechin (3) scored higher binding affinity of −7.9, −7.2, and −6.4 kcal/mol towards PqsA, DNA gyraseB, and S. aureus PK, respectively, compared to amoxicillin (−8.1, −6.1, and −6.4 kcal/mol). All five Lipinski rules were obeyed by compounds 1–3, which showed an acceptable drug resemblance. The lipophilicity was computed as less than five (1.47–4.01) indicating a lipophilic property. Catechin (3) obeys Veber's rule implying its good oral bioavailability. Binding affinity scores of catechin (3)‐protein interactions are in line with those from in vitro tests, indicating its potential antibacterial effect. The obtained cytotoxicity and antibacterial activity results support the utilization of H. johannis in folk medicine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Eg5 is a protein encoded by KIF11 gene and is primarily involved in correct mitotic cell division. It is also involved in nonmitotic processes such as polypeptide synthesis, protein transport, and angiogenesis. The scientific literature sheds light on the ubiquitous functions of KIF11 and its involvement in the onset and progression of different pathologies. This review focuses attention on two main points: (1) the correlation between Eg5 and cancer and (2) the involvement of Eg5 in noncancerous conditions. Regarding the first point, several tumors revealed an overexpression of this kinesin, thus pushing to look for new Eg5 inhibitors for clinical practice. In addition, the evaluation of Eg5 expression represents a crucial step, as its overexpression could predict a poor prognosis for cancer patients. Referring to the second point, in specific pathological conditions, the reduced activity of Eg5 can be one of the causes of pathological onset. This is the case of Alzheimer's disease (AD), in which Aβ and Tau work as Eg5 inhibitors, or in acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS), in which Tat‐mediated Eg5 determines the loss of CD4+ T‐lymphocytes. Reduced Eg5 activity, due to mutations of KIF11 gene, is also responsible for pathological conditions such as microcephaly with or without chorioretinopathy, lymphedema, or intellectual disability (MCLRI) and familial exudative vitreous retinopathy (FEVR). In conclusion, this review highlights the double impact that overexpression or loss of function of Eg5 could have in the onset and progression of different pathological situations. This emphasizes, on one hand, a possible role of Eg5 as a potential biomarker and new target in cancer and, on the other hand, the promotion of Eg5 expression/activity as a new therapeutic strategy in different noncancerous diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study aimed to evaluate phenolic content and antioxidant and antibacterial potentials of the fractions of the hydroethanolic extract of Uvaria chamae leaves, a food plant from Burkina Faso. Thus, the hexane, dichloromethane, ethyl acetate, and butanol fractions of the hydroalcoholic extract after drying were used to determine phenolic compound content, antioxidant activity, and antimicrobial potential on strains of pathogenic bacteria responsible for food contamination. Phytochemical analyses were performed according to standardized methods, while antioxidant activity was evaluated by DPPH and FRAP methods. The antibacterial activity of the fractions was determined by diffusion and microdilution methods on the agar medium with gentamicin as a reference antibiotic. All the six strains, namely, Salmonella typhi ATCC 19430, Escherichia coli ATCC 8739, Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923, Pseudomonas aeruginosa ATCC 9027, Bacillus cereus ATCC 13061, and Listeria monocytogenes ATCC 7644, were sensitive to the fractions tested. Minimum inhibitory concentrations ranged from 37 µg·mL−1 to 1.67 mg·mL−1, respectively, gentamicin and butanolic fractions, while minimum bactericidal concentrations of the fractions ranged from 0.037 to 2.500 mg·mL−1 depending on the bacterial strain. Antioxidant activity varied significantly between fractions. For DPPH free radical scavenging activity, the butanol fraction was the most active, with an IC50 of 280 μg/mL, while the lowest activity (705 μg/mL) was recorded by the hexane fraction. Those of trolox and ascorbic acid used as standards were 80 and 100 μg/mL, respectively. Ferric reducing power (FRAP) ranged from 0.34 to 0.40 mmol EAA/g extract for the hexanic and ethyl acetate fractions, respectively. Phenolic compound contents also varied significantly between fractions. Butanoic and ethyl acetate presented the best contents of total phenolics and flavonoids, respectively. Significant and positive correlations were also recorded between phenolics and antioxidant activities. The antibacterial and antioxidant activities of the active fractions would be related to their richness in bioactive compounds, including phenolic, which are powerful natural antioxidants. U. chamae leaf extracts could therefore be used as dietary supplements to boost the immune system and prevent bacterial infections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The identification and characterization of protein complexes implicated in protein-protein interaction data are crucial to the understanding of the molecular events under normal and abnormal physiological conditions. This paper provides a novel characterization of subcomplexes in protein interaction databases, stressing definition and representation issues, quantification, biological validation, network metrics, motifs, modularity, and gene ontology (GO) terms. The paper introduces the concept of “nested group” as a way to represent subcomplexes and estimates that around 15% of those nested group with the higher Jaccard index may be a result of data artifacts in protein interaction databases, while a number of them can be found in biologically important modular structures or dynamic structures. We also found that network centralities, enrichment in essential proteins, GO terms related to regulation, imperfect 5-clique motifs, and higher GO homogeneity can be used to identify proteins in nested complexes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Caveolin-2 is one of the major protein components of cholesterol- and glycosphingolipid-rich flask-shaped invaginations of plasma membrane caveolae. A new body of evidence suggests that caveolin-2 plays an important, and often more direct, role than caveolin- 1 in regulating signaling and function in a cell- and tissue type-specific manner. The purpose of this paper is to primarily focus on discussing how these recent discoveries may help better understand the specific contribution of caveolin-2 to lipid raft- and caveolae-regulated cell/tissue-specific signaling and functions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alzheimer's disease is a neurodegenerative condition characterized by an accumulation of toxic amyloid beta- (Aβ-)peptides in the brain causing progressive neuronal death. Aβ-peptides are produced by aspartyl proteinase-mediated cleavage of the larger amyloid precursor protein (APP). In contrast to this detrimental "amyloidogenic" form of proteolysis, a range of zinc metalloproteinases can process APP via an alternative "nonamyloidogenic" pathway in which the protein is cleaved within its Aβ region thereby precluding the formation of intact Aβ-peptides. In addition, other members of the zinc metalloproteinase family can degrade preformed Aβ-peptides. As such, the zinc metalloproteinases, collectively, are key to downregulating Aβ generation and enhancing its degradation. It is the role of zinc metalloproteinases in this "positive side of proteolysis in Alzheimer's disease" that is discussed in the current paper. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMPs) remodel the pericellular environment by regulating the cleavage of extracellular matrix proteins, cell surface components, neurotransmitter receptors, and growth factors that mediate cell adhesion, synaptogenesis, synaptic plasticity, and long-term potentiation. Interestingly, increased MMP activity and dysregulation of the balance between MMPs and TIMPs have also been implicated in various pathologic conditions. In this paper, we discuss various animal models that suggest that the activation of the gelatinases MMP-2 and MMP-9 is involved in pathogenesis of drug dependence, Alzheimer's disease, and epilepsy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Escherichia coli is one of the most widely used hosts for the production of recombinant proteins but insoluble expression of heterologous proteins is a major bottleneck in production of recombinant proteins in E. coli. In vitro refolding of inclusion body into proteins with native conformations is a solution for this problem but there is a need for optimization of condition for each protein specifically. Several approaches have been described for in vitro refolding; most of them involve the use of additives for assisting correct folding. Cosolutes play a major role in refolding process and can be classified according to their function as aggregation suppressors and folding enhancers. This paper presents a review of additives that are used in refolding process of insoluble recombinant proteins in small scale and industrial processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alpha-hemoglobin-stabilizing protein (AHSP) is an erythroid-specific protein that acts as a molecular chaperone for the free α chains of hemoglobin. Evidence strongly suggests that AHSP participates in hemoglobin synthesis and may act to neutralize the cytotoxic effects of excess free alpha-globin subunits that accumulate both in normal and beta-thalassemic erythroid precursor cells. As such, AHSP seems to be essential for normal erythropoiesis, and impaired upregulation of AHSP may lead to premature erythroid cell death, resulting in ineffective erythropoiesis. Reduced AHSP mRNA expression has been associated with clinical variability in some cases of β-thalassemia. It has been shown that αHb variants may also impair AHSP-αHb interactions, leading to pathological conditions that resemble α-thalassemia syndromes. The aim of this paper is to summarize current information concerning the structure and function of AHSP, focusing on its role in normal erythropoiesis and its relevance in health and disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plant antibacterial peptides have been isolated from a wide variety of species. They consist of several protein groups with different features, such as the overall charge of the molecule, the content of disulphide bonds, and structural stability under environmental stress. Although the three-dimensional structures of several classes of plant peptides are well determined, the mechanism of action of some of these molecules is still not well defined. However, further studies may provide new evidences for their function on bacterial cell wall. Therefore, this paper focuses on plant peptides that show activity against plant-pathogenic and humanpathogenic bacteria. Furthermore, we describe the folding of several peptides and similarities among their three-dimensional structures. Some hypotheses for their mechanisms of action and attack on the bacterial membrane surface are also proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Membrane rafts are small (10-200 nm) sterol- and sphingolipid-enriched domains that compartmentalize cellular processes. Membrane rafts play an important role in viral infection cycles and viral virulence. Viruses are divided into fourmain classes, enveloped DNA virus, enveloped RNA virus, nonenveloped DNA virus, and nonenveloped RNA virus. General virus infection cycle is also classified into two sections, the early stage (entry process) and the late stage (assembly, budding, and release processes of virus particles). In the viral cycle,membrane rafts act as a scaffold of many cellular signal transductions, which are associated with symptoms caused by viral infections. In this paper, we describe the functions of membrane rafts in viral lifecycles and host cellular response according to each virus classification, each stage of the virus lifecycle, and each virus-induced signal transduction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heat-shock proteins (Hsps) are molecular chaperones that are ubiquitously expressed but are also induced in cells exposed to stressful stimuli. Hsps have been implicated in the induction and propagation of several diseases. This paper focuses on regulatory factors that control the transcription of the genes encoding Hsps. We also highlight how distinct transcription factors are able to interact and modulate Hsps in different pathological states. Thus, a better understanding of the complex signaling pathways regulating Hsp expression may lead to novel therapeutic targets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Marine environment has been the source of diverse life forms that produce different biologically active compounds. Marine organisms are consistently contributing with unparalleled bioactive compounds that have profound applications in nutraceuticals, cosmeceuticals, and pharmaceuticals. In this process, screening of natural products from marine organisms that could potentially inhibit the expression of metalloproteinases has gained a huge popularity, which became a hot field of research in life sciences. Metalloproteinases, especially, matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are a class of structurally similar enzymes that contribute to the extracellular matrix degradation and play major role in normal and pathological tissue remodeling. Imbalance in the expression of MMPs leads to severe pathological condition that could initiate cardiac, cartilage, and cancer-related diseases. Three decades of endeavor for designing potent matrix metalloproteinase inhibitory substances (MMPIs) with many not making upto final clinical trials seek new resources for devising MMPIs. Umpteen number of medicinally valuable compounds being reported from marine organisms, which encourage current researchers to screen potent MMPIs from marine organisms. In this paper, we have made an attempt to report the metalloproteinase inhibiting substances from various marine organisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We previously developed a highly specific method for detecting SNPs with a microarray-based system using stem-loop probes. In this paper we demonstrate that coupling a multiplexing procedure with our microarray method is possible for the simultaneous detection and genotyping of four point mutations, in three different genes, involved in Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease. DNA from healthy individuals and patients was amplified, labeled with Cy3 by multiplex PCR; and hybridized to microarrays. Spot signal intensities were 18 to 74 times greater for perfect matches than for mismatched target sequences differing by a single nucleotide (discrimination ratio) for "homozygous" DNA from healthy individuals. "Heterozygous" mutant DNA samples gave signal intensity ratios close to 1 at the positions of the mutations as expected. Genotyping by this method was therefore reliable. This system now combines the principle of highly specific genotyping based on stem-loop structure probes with the advantages of multiplex analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The acetylation mechanisms of several selected typical substrates from experiments, including arylamines and arylhydrazines, are investigated with the density functional theory in this paper. The results indicate that all the transition states are characterized by a four-membered ring structure, and hydralazine (HDZ) is the most potent substrate. The bioactivity for all the compounds is increased in a sequence of PABA ≈ 4-AS < 4-MA < 5-AS ≈ INH < HDZ. The conjunction effect and the delocalization of the lone pairs of N atom play a key role in the reaction. All the results are consistent with the experimental data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study aimed to investigate the chemical composition and antimicrobial and antioxidant activities of the essential oil from dried seeds of Xylopia aethiopica. The essential oil was obtained by hydrodistillation and analyzed by GC/FID and GC/MS. The essential oil yield was 1.35%. Forty-nine compounds were identified in the essential oil with 1,8-cineole (16.3%), β-pinene (14.8%), trans-pinocarveol (9.1%), myrtenol (8.3%), α-pinene (5.9%), and terpinen-4-ol (5.6%) as major components. The antimicrobial activity of this essential oil was studied using disk diffusion and broth microdilution methods on four bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus, Enterococcus faecalis, Escherichia coli, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa) and one fungus (Candida albicans). The essential oil exhibited excellent activity against S. aureus, E. faecalis, and C. albicans and moderate activity against E. coli. Among all strains tested, C. albicans showed the best sensitivity with a MIC of 50 mg/mL. The antioxidant activity was examined using a DPPH-free radical scavenging assay. The essential oil of X. aethiopica showed low antioxidant activity (IC50 = 784.604 ± 0.320 mg/mL) compared to that of ascorbic acid and the reference compound (IC50 = 0.163 ± 0.003 mg/mL). The results indicate that consumption of X. aethiopica seeds can reduce the virulence of food-borne pathogens and their resistance to antibiotics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The increasing prevalence of cancers and the multiple side effects of cancer treatments have led researchers to constantly search for plants containing bioactive compounds with cell death properties. This work aimed at evaluating the antiproliferative effect of an Acmella caulirhiza extract. After evaluation of the in vitro antioxidant potential of the three extracts of Acmella caulirhiza (aqueous (AE-Ac), hydroethanolic (HEE-Ac), and ethanolic (EE-Ac)) through the scavenging of DPPH● and NO● radicals, the extract with the best antioxidant activity was selected for bioactive compound assessment and antiproliferative tests. Subsequently, the cytotoxic activity was evaluated on the viability of breast (MCF-7), brain (CT2A, SB-28, and GL-261), colon (MC-38), and skin (YUMM 1.7 and B16-F1) cancer lines using the MTT method. Then, the line where the extract was the most active was selected to evaluate the expression of certain genes involved in cancerogenesis by RT-PCR and the expression of cleaved caspase-3 involved in cell death mechanism by western blot. The AE-Ac showed the best scavenging activity with IC50s of 0.52 and 0.02 for DPPH● and NO●, respectively. This AE-Ac was found to contain alkaloids, flavonoids, and tannins and was more active on YUMM 1.7 cells (IC50 = 149.42 and 31.99 μg/mL for 24 and 48 h, respectively). Results also showed that AE-Ac downregulated the expression of inflammation (IL-1b p = 0.017 and IL-6 p = 0.028 ), growth factors (PDGF p = 0.039 , IGF p = 0.034 , E2F1 p = 0.038 , and E2F2 p = 0.016 ), and antiapoptotic protein genes (Bcl-2 p = 0.028 and Bcl-6 p = 0.039 ). The cleaved caspase-3 was positively modulated by the AE-Ac inducing thus cell death by apoptosis. AE-Ac showed inhibitory effects on the expression of genes involved in cancer progression making it a potential health intervention agent that can be exploited in cancer therapy protocols. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To provide scientific evidence of the efficacy of Allium ampeloprasum against female infertility, the effects of the aqueous extract of the said plant (AE) were evaluated in rats with letrozole-induced polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). AE was administered orally to PCOS rats at doses of 192, 384, and 768 mg/kg. The positive control was co-treated with clomiphene citrate (1 mg/kg) and metformin (200 mg/kg). Normal and negative controls received distilled water. The vaginal contents of rats were examined daily under a microscope before (7 days) and during treatment. Treatments were administered orally for 15 days, and then, 6 rats from each group were sacrificed for biochemical and histological analyses. The remaining rats were mated with males of proven fertility for 5 days. The daily examination of vaginal smears allowed the evaluation of fertility index. After parturition, additional fertility parameters were determined. Results showed that in PCOS rats, AE decreased body weight (p < 0.001), abdominal fat weight (p < 0.001), serum levels of LH (p < 0.001), testosterone (p < 0.001), total cholesterol (p < 0.05), and LDL cholesterol (p < 0.01). HDL cholesterol increased and atherogenic indices decreased (p < 0.001). The number of Graafian follicles and corpora lutea increased, while cystic (p < 0.001) and atretic (p < 0.05) follicles decreased. AE also decreased oxidative stress in the ovaries, restored the estrous cycle, induced uterine epithelial cell hypertrophy, and improved fertility. These effects were attributed to phenols, flavonoids, terpenoids, and anthocyanins present in AE. The overall results justify the traditional use of A. ampeloprasum against female infertility and suggest its potential use as a dietary supplement for PCOS patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), commonly known as ubiquinone, is a vitamin-like component generated in mitochondrial inner membranes. This molecule is detected broadly in different parts of the human body in various quantities. This molecule can be absorbed by the digestive system from various nutritional sources as supplements. CoQ10 exists in three states: in a of reduced form (ubiquinol), in a semiquinone radical form, and in oxidized ubiquinone form in different organs of the body, playing a crucial role in electron transportation and contributing to energy metabolism and oxygen utilization, especially in the musculoskeletal and nervous systems. Since the early 1980s, research about CoQ10 has become the interest for two reasons. First, CoQ10 deficiency has been found to have a link with cardiovascular, neurologic, and cancer disorders. Second, this molecule has an antioxidant and free-radical scavenger nature. Since then, several investigations have indicated that the drug may benefit patients with cardiovascular, neuromuscular, and neurodegenerative illnesses. CoQ10 may protect the neurological system from degeneration and degradation due to its antioxidant and energy-regulating activity in mitochondria. This agent has shown its efficacy in preventing and treating neurological diseases such as migraine, Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, Huntington's disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, and Friedreich's ataxia. This study reviews the literature to highlight this agent's potential therapeutic effects in the mentioned neurological disorders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The level and potential of iron contained in fluted pumpkin (Telfairia occidentalis) has been exploited as a blood tonic; however, the potentials of some other parts of the plant are unknown. The effect of T. occidentalis fruit mesocarp (aqueous extract) on phenylhydrazine (PHZ)-induced anaemia in experimental rats was investigated in a bid to determine its curative properties and potential in reversing haemolytic anaemia and protection of liver health. The LD50 of the fruit extract was determined using Lorke's method for the determination of acute toxicity. The study involved oral administration of varying doses of the extract to different groups of rats which were monitored for 24 hours. The test sample did not show any signs of toxicity at doses of 5000 mg/kg b.wt, which is the highest possible recommended dose for toxicity testing. For the evaluation of the effects of the fruit extract on haematological indices and biochemical enzyme markers in anaemic rats, 30 matured albino Wistar rats were used. The rats were divided into five groups of six rats each. Group 1 consisted of normal rats (control group), Group 2 consisted of anaemic untreated rats, and Group 3 consisted of anaemic rats treated with the standard drug Astymin, while Groups 4 and 5 were made up of anaemic rats given the extract at doses of 600 mg/kg b.wt and 1000 mg/kg b.wt, respectively. The fruit extract failed to show any significant effect in improving the haemoglobin (Hb), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and alkaline phosphate (ALP) levels in anaemic rats but rather may have contributed to a reduction in Hb levels and an unhealthy increase in serum enzyme levels. This is indicative of the apparent inability of the aqueous extract of the T. occidentalis fruit mesocarp to reverse PHZ-induced haemolytic anaemia and may suggest a possible detrimental effect of high doses of the extract over a prolonged period. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Infectious diseases pose a significant threat to human health worldwide. To address this challenge, we conducted a comprehensive study on the leaf and flower extracts of Clitoria ternatea plants. Our research encompassed in vitro assessments of their antibacterial, antibiofilm, antioxidant, and cytotoxic properties. Additionally, we employed in silico screening to identify promising compounds with potential applications in developing novel anti-Escherichia coli medications. Notably, our investigation revealed a remarkable inhibition zone of 13.00 ± 1 mm when applying the leaf extract (200 μg/ml) against E. coli, showcasing its potent antibacterial properties. Furthermore, both the leaf and flower extracts exhibited substantial biofilm inhibition efficacy against S. aureus, with inhibition percentages of 54% and 58%, respectively. In the realm of antioxidant activity, the leaf and flower extracts of C. ternatea displayed noteworthy DPPH free radical scavenging capabilities. Specifically, the leaf extract exhibited a substantial activity of 62.39% at a concentration of 150 μg/ml, while the flower extract achieved 44.08% at the same concentration. Our study also evaluated the impact on brine shrimp, where the floral extract displayed a significantly higher mortality rate of 93.33% at a dosage of 200 μg/ml compared to the leaf extract. To elucidate potential therapeutic targets, we utilized molecular docking techniques, focusing on the acbR protein (5ENR) associated with antibiotic resistance in E. coli. In this analysis, compounds isolated from the C. ternatea leaf extract, namely D1 (CID-14478556), D2 (CID-6423376), and D3 (CID-20393), exhibited binding energies of −8.2 kcal/mol, −6.5 kcal/mol, and −6.3 kcal/mol, respectively. Additionally, compounds from the flower extract, E1 (CID-5282761), E2 (CID-538757), and E3 (CID-536762), displayed binding energies of −5.4 kcal/mol, −5.3 kcal/mol, and −5.1 kcal/mol, respectively. In conclusion, the leaf and flower extracts derived from C. ternatea represent a promising natural resource with potential therapeutic applications in combating antibiotic-resistant pathogens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aluminum (Al) is known to be a nephrotoxic metal that can cause renal toxicity in both humans and animals. The use of functional foods has been reported to have significance in managing the toxic effects associated with such metals. This study aimed to assess the potential protective effects of caffeine, vanillin, and their combination in mitigating AlCl3-induced renal toxicity in adult male Wistar rats. A total of thirty (30) adult male Wistar rats weighing between 150 and 200 g were randomly divided into five groups, each consisting of six rats (n = 6). Group 1 served as the control, while the remaining treatment groups received a daily oral dose of 100 mg/kg AlCl3 for a duration of 21 days. In addition, groups 3–5 were coadministered 50 mg/kg body weight (bw) of caffeine, vanillin, and a combination (50/50 mg/kg bw) of both substances, respectively. In the results, AlCl3-treated showed a significant (p < 0.05) increase in serum biomarkers such as ALT, ALP, urea, and creatinine, and a significant (p < 0.05) decrease in serum total proteins (TPs). The renal tissue's antioxidant system, including SOD, CAT, GPx, and GSH, exhibited a significant (p < 0.05) reduction, accompanied by an elevated MDA level. However, the administration of caffeine, vanillin, and their combination resulted in a significant (p < 0.05) decrease in serum ALT, ALP, urea, and creatinine, and a significant (p < 0.05) increase in serum TP. Furthermore, following the treatment, there was a significant (p < 0.05) increase in renal SOD, CAT, GPx, and GSH levels, along with a reduction in the MDA level. In addition, the treatment for 21 days caused a significant (p < 0.05) reversal to the altered histomorphological architecture. These findings suggest that caffeine, vanillin, and their combination could potentially be an effective regimen in managing AlCl3-induced renal toxicity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Infertility is a common issue affecting a large number of Iraqi women of reproductive age. The relationship between vitamin D deficiency and infertility has previously drawn the attention of gynecologists, and an increasing number of vitamin D testing has been requested. Methods. 120 women were enrolled in this study between April 2019 and April 2020. Patients were divided into two groups comprising sixty women complaining of infertility, with the other 60 women being fertile and enrolled as controls. All patients were assessed for vitamin D level. Results. In the fertile study group, patients with deficient, insufficient, and sufficient level of vitamin were 28%, 23%, and 48%, respectively (these numbers were rounded to the nearest whole digit, as the numbers for the infertile group were given with that level of precision), whereas the infertile study group showed a statistically significant (p value = 0.002) distribution of vitamin levels with 50%, 35%, and 15% of women being deficient, insufficient, and sufficient, respectively. Conclusions. Vitamin D is significantly deficient in infertile patients which suggests a possible, positive impact if vitamin D is considered in the management of female infertility. Further study with more participants is highly recommended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite treatments and vaccinations, it remains difficult to develop naturally occurring COVID-19 inhibitors. Here, our main objective is to find potential lead compounds from the retrieved alkaloids with antiviral and other biological properties that selectively target the main SARS-CoV-2 protease (Mpro), which is required for viral replication. In this work, 252 alkaloids were aligned using Lipinski's rule of five and their antiviral activity was then assessed. The prediction of activity spectrum of substances (PASS) data was used to confirm the antiviral activities of 112 alkaloids. Finally, 50 alkaloids were docked with Mpro. Furthermore, assessments of molecular electrostatic potential surface (MEPS), density functional theory (DFT), and absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion, and toxicity (ADMET) were performed, and a few of them appeared to have potential as candidates for oral administration. Molecular dynamics simulations (MDS) with a time step of up to 100 ns were used to confirm that the three docked complexes were more stable. It was found that the most prevalent and active binding sites that limit Mpro'sactivity are PHE294, ARG298, and GLN110. All retrieved data were compared to conventional antivirals, fumarostelline, strychnidin-10-one (L-1), 2,3-dimethoxy-brucin (L-7), and alkaloid ND-305B (L-16) and were proposed as enhanced SARS-CoV-2 inhibitors. Finally, with additional clinical or necessary study, it may be able to use these indicated natural alkaloids or their analogs as potential therapeutic candidates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective. Oral tongue squamous cell carcinoma (OTSCC) and buccal squamous cell carcinoma (BSCC) are the first and second leading causes of oral cancer, respectively. OTSCC and BSCC are associated with poor prognosis in patients with oral cancer. Thus, we aimed to indicate signaling pathways, Gene Ontology terms, and prognostic markers mediating the malignant transformation of the normal oral tissue to OTSCC and BSCC. Methods. The dataset GSE168227 was downloaded and reanalyzed from the GEO database. Orthogonal partial least square (OPLS) analysis identified common differentially expressed miRNAs (DEMs) in OTSCC and BSCC compared to their adjacent normal mucosa. Next, validated targets of DEMs were identified using the TarBase web server. With the use of the STRING database, a protein interaction map (PIM) was created. Using the Cytoscape program, hub genes and clusters within the PIM were shown. Next, gene-set enrichment analysis was carried out using the g:Profiler tool. Using the GEPIA2 web tool, analyses of gene expression and survival analysis were also performed. Results. Two DEMs, including has-miR-136 and has-miR-377, were common in OTSCC and BSCC (p value <0.01; |Log2 FC| > 1). A total of 976 targets were indicated for common DEMs. PIM included 96 hubs, and the upregulation of EIF2S1, CAV1, RAN, ANXA5, CYCS, CFL1, MYC, HSP90AA1, PKM, and HSPA5 was significantly associated with a poor prognosis in the head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC), while NTRK2, HNRNPH1, DDX17, and WDR82 overexpression was significantly linked to favorable prognosis in the patients with HNSCC. "Clathrin-mediated endocytosis" was considerably dysregulated in OTSCC and BSCC. Conclusion. The present study suggests that has-miR-136 and has-miR-377 are underexpressed in OTSCC and BSCC than in normal oral mucosa. Moreover, EIF2S1, CAV1, RAN, ANXA5, CYCS, CFL1, MYC, HSP90AA1, PKM, HSPA5, NTRK2, HNRNPH1, DDX17, and WDR82 demonstrated prognostic markers in HNSCC. These findings may benefit the prognosis and management of individuals with OTSCC/BSCC. However, additional experimental verification is required. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oral diseases associated with systematic diseases as metabolic and vasculitic have been included in this paper. This will enhance our understanding of the salivary function in promoting healthy oral condition. The study investigates the effects of type I and type II diabetes mellitus in well-controlled diabetic patients, in addition to Behçet disease (BD) on saliva flow rate (SFR), pH, the decay, missing, and filled tooth (DMFT) index, glucose, and major earth-alkaline ions (Ca2+ and Mg2+) compared to healthy males and age-matched controls. Saliva samples were collected from 1403 male human subjects, distributed on 7 levels including 3 control groups, and analyzed. The symptoms and clinical observations were enrolled. A preprandial salivary glucose has illustrated statistically strong significant and positive correlations with HbA1c and blood glucose levels. TIDM saliva showed lower pH, SFR, and Ca2+ but higher Mg2+, caries risk, and poor metabolic control. These led to dysfunction of secretory capacity of salivary glands. TIIDM proved higher SFR, DMFT, and glucose than TIDM patients. DM oral calcium has decreased by age while magnesium sharply slopes at seniority. BD oral fluid is associated with lower glucose and minerals but noticeably with both higher pH and DMFT. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, although many review articles have been presented about bioapplications of magnetic nanoparticles by some research groups with different expertise such as chemistry, biology, medicine, pharmacology, and materials science and engineering, the majority of these reviews are insufficiently comprehensive in all related topics like magnetic aspects of process. In the current review, it is attempted to carry out the inclusive surveys on importance of magnetic nanoparticles and especially magnetite ones and their required conditions for appropriate performance in bioapplications. The main attentions of this paper are focused on magnetic features which are less considered. Accordingly, the review contains essential magnetic properties and their measurement methods, synthesis techniques, surface modification processes, and applications of magnetic nanoparticles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One of the utmost man-made problems faced today has been the ever-increasing plastic waste filling the world. It accounts for an estimated 20–30% (by volume) of municipal solid waste in landfill sites worldwide. Research on plastic biodegradation has been steadily growing over the past four decades. Several fungi have been identified that produce enzymes capable of plastic degradation in various laboratory conditions. This paper presents a study that determined the ability of fungi to degrade low molecular weight polyvinyl chloride (PVC) by the enzyme laccase. We have isolated a fungal species, Cochliobolus sp., from plastic dumped soils and they were cultured on Czapek Dox Agar slants at 30°C. The effectiveness of this fungal species on the degradation of commercial low molecular weight polyvinyl chloride (PVC) was studied under laboratory conditions. Significant differences were observed from the FTIR, GC-MS, and SEM results in between control and Cochliobolus sp. treated PVC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reservoir water physicochemical characteristics provide important information about water suitability for fish production. Accordingly, the study aimed to characterize the physicochemical characteristics of Dembi reservoir water for sustainable fish production. The study was conducted in Dembi reservoir during the dry season. Water samples were collected in triplicate from selected 10 sampling sites of the reservoir water using manually prepared water sampler made from polyvinyl chloride (PVC) tube. The depth integrated sampling technique was employed to take water samples for all physicochemical characteristics analysis. From the selected 14 physicochemical characteristics, four (temperature, electrical conductivity, pH, and dissolved oxygen) were tested onsite using a multisystem HQ4d electronic meter (probe), whereas the rest 10 water quality characteristics were tested in the laboratory. The result showed that the current average depth of the dam was 5.6 ± 1.61 m. The overall mean values of the water quality characteristics at different sites of the reservoir were as follows: turbidity (26.4 ± 0.44 FTU), total hardness (22.2 ± 0.51 mgL−1), NO3 (5.4 ± 0.48 mgL−1), NO2 (0.3 ± 0.11 mgL−1), NH4 (2.1 ± 0.06 mgL−1), PO4−3 (1.7 ± 0.27 mgL−1), total alkalinity (52.5 ± 0.91 mgL−1), and BOD5 (2.7 ± 0.24 mgL−1). There was a significant difference (p < 0.05) in all physicochemical characteristics among 10 sampling sites of the reservoir water. The recorded values of all physicochemical characteristics, except NO2, NH4, and PO4−3, were found within the recommended standard limit for fish production. The change in reservoir water depth and increase in nutrients shows the presence of sediment siltation and nutrient enrichment. Therefore, proper watershed management practices and waste management should be carried out for sustainable water quality maintenance and fish production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Exosomes have been proven to play important diagnostic, regulatory, or communication roles in tumorigenesis, tumor progression, or metastasis; in recent studies, lots of molecules, including miRNAs, were found to be aberrantly expressed in tumor exosomes and were correlated with tumor development. However, studies about the expression, relationship, or control mechanisms of miRNAs in exosomes in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) are scarce and urgently needed. The aim of this article was to identify and investigate abnormally expressed miRNAs in PDAC exosomes in vivo and in vitro. Methods. Microarray studies were used to detect aberrantly expressed miRNAs in PDAC exosomes, and miR-210 expression in cells or exosomes was further analyzed by qRT-PCR. Bioinformatics analyses, dual-luciferase assays, WB, and other assays were utilized to explore the miRNA molecular mechanisms. The living cell coculture model and immunofluorescence analysis were employed to image the communication between PDAC cells and endothelial cells. Other biological experiments in the study include a real-time intravital imaging system, EdU, transwell, xenograft models, and so on. Results. miR-210 is significantly expressed in PDAC exosomes and malignant cells. High miR-210 significantly facilitated tumor angiogenesis, cell invasion, and proliferation in PDAC cells. Further mechanistic detection revealed that miR-210 negatively regulated EFNA3 expression and participated in the PI3K/AKT/VEGFA or Wnt/Β-catenin/RHOA pathways, thus promoting tumor angiogenesis and cellular permeability. PDAC cells promote endothelial angiogenesis or permeability via miR-210 transmission by tumor exosomes. Exosomal miR-210 promotes PDAC progression in vivo. Further detection of PDAC plasma exosomal miR-210 suggests that exosomal miR-210 expression was high and significantly associated with vascular invasion and TNM stage and was an independent risk factor for PDAC overall survival. Conclusions. PDAC cell-secreted exosomes could promote angiogenesis and cellular permeability of neighboring endothelial angiogenesis or permeability via miR-210 transmission. Exosomal miR-210 may play important roles in tumor biology and may be a useful prognostic marker in PDAC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of iron oxide nanoparticles (FeONPs) synthesized using Spinacia oleracea leaf extract on Triton X-100-induced atherosclerosis in white Wistar rats was determined. FeONPs were characterized to determine their size, structure, composition, and shape. In vitro antioxidant activity of FeONPs against 2, 2-diphenyl-1-picryl-hydrazyl-hydrate (DPPH) was determined. Atherosclerosis was induced by intraperitoneal administration of 5% Triton X-100 (100 mg/kg body weight) for 14 days. Group 1 received standard rat chow and water. Group 2 received 100 mg/kg body weight of Triton X-100 and a standard diet. Group 3 received 100 mg/kg body weight of Triton X-100 followed by 20 mg/kg body weight of atorvastatin for 21 days. Groups 4, 5, and 6 received 100 mg/kg body weight Triton X-100 was followed by variable concentrations of 100, 300, and 500 µg/kg body weight FeONPs, respectively, for 21 days. Blood samples were analyzed for lipid, liver, antioxidant, and cardiovascular markers. Histopathology of the heart was also examined. Characterization revealed the amorphous nature, functional groups, and clustered topography of FeONPs. An upregulated antioxidant activity of FeONPs was observed in a dose-dependent manner. Administration of Triton X-100 showed elevated levels of lipid biomarkers except for high-density lipoprotein (HDL), which decreased in group 2 in comparison to group 1. Liver, antioxidant, and cardiovascular biomarkers all significantly increased. The structural alteration was observed in the heart tissue following histopathology examination. Administration of FeONPs significantly decreased all biomarkers and increased the level of HDL. Also, tissue architecture was restored. Our findings demonstrated that FeONPs were effective in ameliorating Triton X-100-induced atherosclerosis in rats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cardiomyopathy is an important cause of heart failure and a major indication for heart transplantation in children and adults. This paper describes the state of the genetic knowledge of dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM). The identification of the causing mutation is important since presymptomatic interventions of DCM have proven value in preventing morbidity and mortality. Additionally, as in general in genetic studies, the identification of the mutated genes has a direct clinical impact for the families and population involved. Identifying causative mutations immediately amplifies the possibilities for disease prevention through carrier screening and prenatal testing. This often lifts a burden of social isolation from affected families, since healthy family members can be assured of having healthy children. Identification of the mutated genes holds the potential to lead to the understanding of disease etiology, pathophysiology, and therefore potential therapy. This paper presents the genetic variations, or disease-causing mutations, contributing to the pathogenesis of hereditary DCM, and tries to relate these to the functions of the mutated genes.

Palm olein (PO) and lard are considered harmful to health because of their highly saturated fatty acid content. On the contrary, olive oil (OO) with its high level of polyunsaturated fatty acids is considered healthier. This study aims to evaluate the effects of high consumption of these oils on carbohydrate metabolism and vascular function. Male Wistar rats were fed ad libitum for 12 weeks with different high fat diets (HFD) containing 30% of each oil. Systemic glycemia, insulinemia, and lipidemia were assessed by routine methods or by ELISA. GLUT4 muscular expression and hepatic and muscular Akt phosphorylation were analyzed by western blot. Vascular function was evaluated, ex vivo, on aortic rings and on the variations of isometric tensions. The results show that fasting blood glucose was increased with PO and OO diets and decreased with lard. Compared to control diet, this increase was significant only with PO diet. The area under the curve of IPGTT was increased in all HFD groups. Compared to control diet, this increase was significant only with PO. In contrast, stimulation of the pathway with insulin showed a significant decrease in Akt phosphorylation in all HFD compared to control diet. KCl and phenylephrine induced strong, dose-dependent vasoconstriction of rat aortas in all groups, but KCl EC50 values were increased with lard and OO diets. The inhibitory effect of tempol was absent in PO and lard and attenuated in OO. Vascular insulin sensitivity was decreased in all HFD groups. This decreased sensitivity of insulin was more important with PO and lard when compared to OO diet. In conclusion, the results of this study clearly show that high consumption of palm olein, olive oil, and lard can compromise glucose tolerance and thus insulin sensitivity. Furthermore, palm olein and lard have a more deleterious effect than olive oil on the contractile function of the aorta. Excessive consumption of saturated or unsaturated fatty acids is harmful to health, regardless of their vegetable or animal origin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herbal medication developed from natural resources has to have antibacterial and antioxidant effects. The aim of this research is to look at the chemical makeup of Solanecio gigas (S. gigas) stem bark essential oil (EO), as well as the effectiveness of EO and extracts (chloroform, ethyl acetate, and methanol) against human pathogenic bacteria and their antioxidant activity. The GC-MS analysis identified 23 components, accounting for 98.7% of the total oil containing Methylene chloride (49.2%), sabinene (10.5%), 1-nonene (11.3%), Terpinen-4-ol (6.9%), Camphene (4.3%), γ-terpinene (3.6%), α-phellandrene (2.9%) β-myrcene (2.6%), 1,2,5-Oxadiazol-3-carboxamide, 4,4′-azobis-2,2′-dioxide (2.4%), α-terpinene (1.9%), 1-Octanamine, N-methyl- (1.9%), ρ-cymene (1.6%) as major components. The antibacterial efficacy of the EO and extracts (25, 50, 100, and 200 mg/ml) was demonstrated by the inhibitory zones (8.5 ± 0.47–23.3 ± 0.36 and 7.2 ± 0.25–22.0 ± 0.45 mm), respectively. The MIC values of the extracts and the EO were 120–150 and 240 to <1100 μg/ml, respectively. The EO also demonstrated a significant antibacterial impact. The EO and methanolic extract had free radical scavenging activities with IC50 value, 13.8 ± 0.48 and 4.2 ± 0.04 μg/ml, respectively. In comparison to the other extracts, the methanolic extract had the greatest phenolics (100.2 ± 0.13 μg GAE/mg of dry extract) and flavonoid contents (112.1 ± 0.18 μg CE/mg of dry extract). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pleurotus ostreatus mushroom contains important bioactive compounds and has several biological activities; however, mushroom growing substrates have major influence on chemical and functional characteristics of the mushroom. Hence, the study aimed to evaluate the influence of supplementing mushroom growing substrates with wheat bran (WB) towards yield/productivity, bioactive compounds, and antimicrobial and antioxidant activity of P. ostreatus. The mushroom was cultivated on sugarcane substrates supplemented with increasing levels of WB (0%–20%). The mushroom extracts were screened for bioactive compounds using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Antimicrobial activity was carried out using microplate assay, while antioxidant potential was investigated using reducing power assay. The addition of supplements on mushroom growing substrates had an influence on mushroom yield; hence, higher supplementation (18% and 20%) produced higher yield. The GC-MS revealed several bioactive compounds with known activity, such as vitamin E, phenol, fatty acids, and terpenoids. Concentration-dependent antioxidant activity was observed; hence, extracts at higher concentrations gave significantly higher reducing power. The P. ostreatus extract had antimicrobial activity against all the tested organisms, with S. aureus showing high susceptibility to most of the extracts. However, mushrooms grown on bagasse substrates supplemented with 14% (0.02 mg/ml) and 20% WB (0.08 mg/ml) proved to have better antimicrobial activity on Escherichia coli. The difference in susceptibility demonstrates that substrates type and composition could have an influence on bioactive compounds found within mushrooms, also influencing medicinal properties of edible mushroom. Thus, supplementing mushroom growing substrates not only improve yield, but also can contribute to bioactive compounds with medicinal potential. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cholinesterase inhibitors (ChE-Is) are the standard for the therapy of AD associated disorders and are the only class of approved drugs by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Additionally, acetylcholinesterase (AChE) is the target for many Alzheimer's dementia drugs which block the function of AChE but have some side effects. Therefore, in this paper, an attempt was made to elucidate cholinesterase inhibition potential of secondary metabolite from Cannabis plant which has negligible or no side effect. Molecular docking of 500 herbal compounds, against AChE, was performed using Autodock 4.2 as per the standard protocols. Molecular dynamics simulations have also been carried out to check stability of binding complex in water for 1000 ps. Our molecular docking and simulation have predicted high binding affinity of secondary metabolite (C28H34N2O6) to AChE. Further, molecular dynamics simulations for 1000 ps suggest that ligand interaction with the residues Asp72, Tyr70-121-334, and Phe288 of AChE, all of which fall under active site/subsite or binding pocket, might be critical for the inhibitory activity of AChE. This approach might be helpful to understand the selectivity of the given drug molecule in the treatment of Alzheimer's disease. The study provides evidence for consideration of C28H34N2O6 as a valuable small ligand molecule in treatment and prevention of AD associated disorders and further in vitro and in vivo investigations may prove its therapeutic potential. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Amylase is an enzyme that catalyzes the breakdown of starch into sugars and plays a pivotal role in a variety of areas like use as digestives, for the production of ethanol and high fructose corn syrup, detergents, desiring of textiles, modified starches, hydrolysis of oil-field drilling fluids, and paper recycling. In the present work, solid state fermentation (SSF) for α-amylase production has been used in lieu of submerged fermentation (SmF) due to its simple technique, low capital investment, lower levels of catabolite repression, and better product recovery. Bacillus subtilis has been well known as producer of alpha amylase and was tested using solid state fermentation for 48 hours at 37°C with wheat bran as substrate. Comparison between different fermentation hours demonstrated high yield of alpha amylase after 48 hours. This alpha amylase has optimum pH and temperature at 7.1 and 40°C, respectively. With the goal to purify alpha amylase, 30-70% (NH4)2SO4 cut concentrated the amylase activity threefold with respect to crude fermented extract. This was verified in quantitative DNS assay method as well as in zymogram gel profile. The exact molecular weight of the amylase is yet to be determined with the aid of other protein purification techniques. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]