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Zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) are becoming an innovative agent in biological and environmental applications due to its unique characteristics, biocompatibility, low cost and toxicity. In this study, the composite ZnO NPs using Rhododendron arboreum (R. arboreum) stem bark were synthesized and characterized for UV–visible spectroscopy (UV-vis), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The biomedical assessment of the synthesized nanoparticles showed zones of inhibition of 23 ± 0.09, 18 ± 0.1 and 16 ± 0.05 mm, against the Klebsiella pneumoniae (K. pneumoniae), Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) and Escherichia coli (E. coli) strains, respectively. Likewise, the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) values against K. pneumoniae, S. aureus, and E. coli were found to be 34 ± 0.21 and 72.71 ± 0.47, 47 ± 0.11 and 94.86 ± 0.84 and 94 ± 0.18 and 185.43 ± 0.16 µg/mL, respectively. The biosynthesized ZnO NPs resulted in significant eradication of the outer and inner membranes of the tested bacterial cells. In addition, the environmental application of the synthesized ZnO NPs also showed time-dependent photocatalytic degradation activity and revealed 65% methyl orange dye degradation with an irradiation period of 6 h. The findings of this study suggest the suitability of the novel R. arboreum stem bark-based ZnO NPs as an effective ameliorant against bactericidal activities and photocatalytic potential for the removal of potentially toxic substances from water. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates the infestation dynamics of Panonychus ulmi McGregor 1916 and its associated predators in Malus domestica borkh orchards across three towns in Morocco: Midelt, Ait Sebaa, and Imouzzer-Kender, situated in the Fez-Meknes and Draa-Tafilalt regions. Ait Sebaa (Fez-Meknes region), characterized by high temperatures and a lower altitude, exhibited a substantial increase in P. ulmi and its predators. In contrast, Midelt (Draa-Tafilalt region), with the highest altitude, demonstrated lower mite counts. Imouzzer-Kender (Fez-Meknes region), at an intermediate altitude, showed moderate mite levels. Detailed findings reveal a positive correlation between P. ulmi and temperature, as well as with phytoseiid mites. Conversely, a negative correlation exists between P. ulmi and altitude. Additionally, a positive correlation between phytoseiid mites and temperature is identified. Overall, this study provides valuable information on the ecological interactions between mites, temperature, altitude and humidity in distinct Moroccan regions, highlighting the need to take regional specificities into account in pest management strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This laboratory investigation aimed to synthesize and characterize micron-sized Gum Arabic (GA) powder and incorporate it in commercially available GIC luting formulation for enhanced physical and mechanical properties of GIC composite. Oxidation of GA was performed and GA-reinforced GIC in 0.5, 1.0, 2.0, 4.0 & 8.0 wt.% formulations were prepared in disc-shaped using two commercially available GIC luting materials (Medicem and Ketac Cem Radiopaque). While the control groups of both materials were prepared as such. The effect of reinforcement was evaluated in terms of nano hardness, elastic modulus, diametral tensile strength (DTS), compressive strength (CS), water solubility and sorption. Two-way ANOVA and post hoc tests were used to analyze data for statistical significance (p < 0.05). FTIR spectrum confirmed the formation of acid groups in the backbone of polysaccharide chain of GA while XRD peaks confirmed that crystallinity of oxidized GA. The experimental group with 0.5 wt.% GA in GIC enhanced the nano hardness while 0.5 wt.% and 1.0 wt.% GA in GIC increased the elastic modulus compared to the control. The CS of 0.5 wt.% GA in GIC and DTS of 0.5 wt.% and 1.0 wt.% GA in GIC demonstrated elevation. In contrast, the water solubility and sorption of all the experimental groups increased compared to the control groups. The incorporation of lower weight ratios of oxidized GA powder in GIC formulation helps in enhancing the mechanical properties with a slight increase in water solubility and sorption parameters. The addition of micron-sized oxidized GA in GIC formulation is promising and needs further research for improved performance of GIC luting composition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herein, a novel optical chemosensor, (CM1 = 2, 6-di((E)-benzylidene)-4-methylcyclohexan-1-one), was designed/synthesized and characterized by 1H-NMR and FT-IR spectroscopy. The experimental observations indicated that CM1 is an efficient and selective chemosensor towards Cd2+, even in the presence of other metal ions, such as Mn2+, Cu2+, Co2+, Ce3+, K+, Hg2+,, and Zn2+ in the aqueous medium. The newly synthesized chemosensor, CM1, showed a significant change in the fluorescence emission spectrum upon coordination with Cd2+. The formation of the Cd2+ complex with CM1 was confirmed from the fluorometric response. The 1:2 combination of Cd2+ with CM1 was found optimum for the desired optical properties, which was confirmed through fluorescent titration, Job's plot, and DFT calculation. Moreover, CM1 showed high sensitivity towards Cd2+ with a very low detection limit (19.25 nM). Additionally, the CM1 was recovered and recycled by the addition of EDTA solution that combines with Cd2+ ion and, hence, frees up the chemosensor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Amoxicillin is the most widely used antibiotic in human medicine for treating bacterial infections. However, in the present research, Micromeria biflora's flavonoids extract mediated gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) were conjugated with amoxicillin (Au-amoxi) to study their efficacy against the inflammation and pain caused by bacterial infections. The formation of AuNPs and Au-amoxi conjugates were confirmed by UV–visible surface plasmon peaks at 535 nm and 545 nm, respectively. The scanning electron microscopy (SEM), zeta potential (ZP), and X-ray diffraction (XRD) studies reveal that the size of AuNPs and Au-amoxi are found to be 42 nm and 45 nm, respectively. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) absorption bands at 3200 cm−1, 1000 cm−1, 1500 cm−1, and 1650 cm−1 reveal the possible involvement of different moieties for the formation of AuNPs and Au-amoxi. The pH studies show that AuNPs and Au-amoxi conjugates are stable at lower pH. The carrageenan-induced paw edema test, writhing test, and hot plate test were used to conduct in vivo anti-inflammatory and antinociceptive studies, respectively. According to in vivo anti-inflammatory activity, Au-amoxi compounds have higher efficiency (70%) after 3 h at a dose of 10 mg/kg body weight as compared to standard diclofenac (60%) at 20 mg/kg, amoxicillin (30%) at 100 mg/kg, and flavonoids extract (35%) at 100 mg/kg. Similarly, for antinociceptive activities, writhing test results show that Au-amoxi conjugates produced the same number of writhes (15) but at a lower dose (10 mg/kg) compared to standard diclofenac (20 mg/kg). The hot plate test results demonstrate that the Au-amoxi has a better latency time of 25 s at 10 mg/kg dose when compared to standard Tramadol of 22 s at 30 mg/ kg, amoxicillin of 14 s at 100 mg/kg, and extract of 14 s at 100 mg/kg after placing the mice on the hot plate for 30, 60, and 90 min with a significance of (p ≤ 0.001). These findings show that the conjugation of AuNPs with amoxicillin to form Au-amoxi can boost its anti-inflammatory and antinociceptive potential caused by bacterial infections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Depression is a serious psychological disorder which negatively affects human feelings and actions. The use of antidepressants is the therapy of choice while treating depression. However, such drugs are associated with severe side effects. There is a need for efficient and harmless drugs. In this connection, the present study was designed to synthesize several substituted benzodiazepine derivatives and explore their antidepressant potentials in an animal model. The chalcone backbone was initially synthesized, which was then converted into several substituted benzodiazepine derivatives designated as 1–6. The synthesized compounds were identified using spectroscopic techniques. The experimental animals (mice) after acclimatation were subjected to forced swim test (FST) and tail suspension test (TST) after oral administration of the synthesized compounds to evaluate their antidepressant potentials. At the completion of the mentioned test, the animals were sacrificed to determine GABA level in their brain hippocampus. The chloro-substituent compound (2) significantly reduced the immobility time (80.81 ± 1.14 s; p < 0.001 at 1.25 mg/kg body weight and 75.68 ± 3.73 s with p < 0.001 at 2.5 mg/kg body weight dose), whereas nitro-substituent compound (5) reduced the immobility time to 118.95 ± 1.31 and 106.69 ± 3.62 s (p < 0.001), respectively, at the tested doses (FST). For control groups, the recorded immobility time recorded was 177.24 ± 1.82 s. The standard drug diazepam significantly reduced immobility time to 70.13 ± 4.12 s while imipramine reduced it to 65.45 ± 2.81 s (p < 0.001). Similarly, in the TST, the compound 2 reduced immobility time to 74.93 ± 1.14 s (p < 0.001) and 70.38 ± 1.43 s (p < 0.001), while compound 5 reduced it to 88.23 ± 1.89 s (p < 0.001) and 91.31 ± 1.73 s (p < 0.001) at the tested doses, respectively, as compared to the control group immobility time (166.13 ± 2.18 s). The compounds 1, 3, 4, and 6 showed weak antidepressant responses as compared to compounds 2 and 5. The compounds 2 and 5 also significantly enhanced the GABA level in the brain's hippocampus of experimental animals, indicating the possible involvement of GABAergic mechanism in alleviating the depression which is evident from the significant increase in mRNA levels for the α subunit of the GABAA receptors in the prefrontal cortex of mice as well. From the results, it can be concluded that compound 2 and 5 could be used as alternative drugs of depression. However, further exploration in this connection is needed in other animal models in order to confirm the observed results in this study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herein, a molecularly imprinted polymer (MIP) was prepared using bulk polymerization and applied to wastewater to aid the adsorption of targeted template molecules using ethylene glycol dimethacrylate (EGDMA), methacrylic acid (MAA), acid black-234 (AB-234), 2,2′-azobisisobutyronitrile (AIBN), and methanol as a cross linker, functional monomer, template, initiator, and porogenic solvent, respectively. For a non-molecularly imprinted polymer (NIP), the same procedure was followed but without adding a template. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and a surface area analyzer were used to determine the surface functional groups, morphology and specific surface area of the MIP and NIP. At pH 5, the AB-234 adsorption capability of the MIP was higher (94%) than the NIP (31%). The adsorption isotherm data of the MIP correlated very well with the Langmuir adsorption model with Qm 82, 83 and 100 mg/g at 283 K, 298 K, and 313 K, respectively. The adsorption process followed pseudo–second-order kinetics. The imprinted factor (IF) and Kd value of the MIP were 5.13 and 0.53, respectively. Thermodynamic studies show that AB-234 dye adsorption on the MIP and NIP was spontaneous and endothermic. The MIP proved to be the best selective adsorbent for AB-234, even in the presence of dyes with similar and different structures than the NIP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding the impacts and constraints of climate change on Ziziphus nummularia′s geographical distribution is crucial for its future sustainability. In this study, we analyze information obtained from the field investigation, the distribution and response of climatic changes of Ziziphus nummularia by the use of ArcGIS analysis. The genetic diversity of 180 genotypes from three populations was studied by morphological attributes and simple sequence repeat (SSR). The results showed that the significant bioclimatic variable limiting the distribution of Z. nummularia was the mean temperature (bio 10_18.tif and bio19). Under the current climatic change, the suitable growth region of Z. nummularia is Swat (35.22° N, 72.42° E), while the future distribution would be Buner (34.39° N, 72.61° E), respectively. A total of 11 phenotypic traits were noted and had significant phenotypic variation among the traits. A total of 120 alleles were amplified. The alleles per locus ranged from 2 to 6, averaging 4.42, whereas PIC ranged from 0.33 to 0.79. Within a mean value of 0.67 per locus, expected heterozygosity was 0.57, observed heterozygosity was 0.661, and average gene diversity was 0.49. Flow estimates (6.41) indicated frequent gene flow within genotypes. The clustering, STRUCTURE, and PCoA analysis indicated Swat and Buner migration routes and evolution as well. The results indicated the prevalence of genetic variability and relationships among Z. nummularia across geographical boundaries had retained unique alleles. This may facilitate the development of agronomically desirable cultivars. However, climate change has impacted species distributions, requiring strategies to conserve genetic resources in different areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

EECC Induces Apoptosis in Breast Cancer Cell Lines Based on annexin V-FITC staining for detection of apoptosis, compared with control cells, breast cancer cells exposed to EECC for 48 h exhibited a significant increase in apoptosis (Figure 2 and Figure 3). Keywords: breast cancer; purple star thistle; apoptosis; antioxidant potential; CG-MS profiling; caspase-3 EN breast cancer purple star thistle apoptosis antioxidant potential CG-MS profiling caspase-3 N.PAG N.PAG 17 08/29/22 20220801 NES 220801 1. EECC inhibits proliferation of two breast cancer cells, MCF-7 ((A), for 24 h; (B), for 48 h; (C), for 72 h) and MDA 231 ((D), for 24 h; (E), for 48 h; (F), for 72 h). MCF-7 breast cancer cells exposed to 37.5, 75 or 150 µg EECC/mL exhibited significant apoptosis as determined by FACS dual Annexin-V/PI staining, with the greatest effect observed for 150 µg EECC/mL (Figure 2A). [Extracted from the article]

Antioxidants isolated from plants have attracted the interest of clinicians and common people to be used for systemic uses rather than synthetic antioxidants because of their active role in maintaining human health with minimal side effects. Alnus nitida (Spach) Endl. is an important medicinal plant native to western Himalaya and is widely distributed throughout Pakistan. The present study evaluates the phytochemical composition of this plant using HPLC along with the total content of phenolics and flavonoids. The antioxidant activities were determined following the Brand William assay. The methanolic extract (Met. Ext) of leaves, stem bark, seeds, and roots of A. nitida were used to scavenge synthetic free radicals such as DPPH and ABTS. From HPLC fingerprinting of the A. nitida selected portion, six possible phytochemicals were confirmed. Among the identified phytochemicals, there are six compounds (malic acid, chlorogenic acid, epigallocatechin gallate, quercetin, ellagic acid and pyrogallol) in the leaves of A. nitida, three (epigallocatechin gallate, ellagic acid, and pyrogallol) in the stem bark, six in the seeds (malic acid, vitamin C, epigallocatechin gallate, quercetin, ellagic acid, and pyrogallol), and five (malic acid, epigallocatechin gallate, quercetin, and ellagic acid) in root. Comparatively, the highest antioxidant potentials were recorded for the leaves extract (IC50 of 340 and 645 μg/mL against DPPH and ABTS, respectively). The percentages of inhibition were compared with the positive control ascorbic acid, which produced an IC50 value of 60 μg/mL each against the free radicals DPPH and ABTS. The highest phenolics (43.81 mg GAE/g sample) were found in the roots, while the highest flavonoid contents (53.25 mg QE/g sample) were in the leaves. It was assumed that observed antioxidant potentials of the tested plant might be due to their phytochemicals confirmed through HPLC, and thus, this plant may be a valuable candidate in treating oxidative stress and related disorders. However, further investigations are needed to isolate responsible components in pure from. Furthermore, toxicological effects in in vivo animal models are also needed to confirm the results observed in this study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work was conducted to study the chemical composition, antioxidant, antibacterial, and antifungal activities of essential oil and hydrolat from Withania frutescens. The essential oil was extracted by hydrodistillation. The chemical characterization was performed using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC/MS). The antioxidant activity was studied using four different assays (DPPH, TAC, FRAP, and β-carotene bleaching). The antibacterial activity test was carried out on multidrug-resistant bacteria including Gram-negative and Gram-positive strains. Antifungal activity was tested on Candida albicans and Saccharomyces cerevisiae. The yield of essential oil (EO) obtained by hydrodistillation of W. frutescens was 0.31% majorly composed of camphor, α-thujone, carvacrol, and thymol. Regarding the antioxidant activities, the concentration of the sample required to inhibit 50% of radicals (IC50) of EO and hydrolat were 14.031 ± 0.012 and 232.081 ± 3.047 µg/mL (DPPH), 4.618 ± 0.045 and 8.997 ± 0.147 µg/mL (FRAP), 0.091 ± 0.007 and 0.131 ± 0.004 mg AAE/mg (TAC), 74.141 ± 1.040% and 40.850 ± 0.083% (β-carotene), respectively. Concerning the antibacterial activity of essential oil and hydrolat, the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values found were 0.006 ± 0.001 and 6.125 ± 0.541 µg/mL (Escherichia coli 57), 0.003 ± 0.001 and 6.125 ± 0.068 µg/mL (Klebsiella pneumoniae), 0.001 ± 0.0 and 6.125 ± 0.046 µg/mL (Pseudomonas aeruginosa) and 0.012 ± 0.003 and 6.125 ± 0.571 µg/mL (Staphylococcus aureus), respectively. MIC values of essential oil and hydrolat vs. both C. albicans and S. cerevisiae were lower than 1/20,480 µg/mL. Based on the findings obtained, essential oils of Withania frutescens can be used as promising natural agents to fight free radical damage and nosocomial antibiotic-resistant microbes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Choroidal neovascularization (CNV) is a major cause of visual impairment that results from excessive growth of blood vessels in the eye's choroid. The limited clinical efficacy of the current therapy for this condition requires the emergence of new treatment modalities such as microRNA (miRNAs). A recent study identified microRNA-539-5p (miR-539) as an angiogenic suppressor in a CNV animal model; however, its therapeutic delivery is limited. Therefore, this study aims to formulate miR-539 in targeted nanoparticles (NPs) prepared from polylactic-co-glycolic acid (PLGA). The NPs were decorated with internalizing arginylglycylaspartic (RGD) peptide (iRGD), which specifically targets the alpha-v-beta-3 (αvβ3) integrin receptor that is overexpressed in blood vessels of ocular tissue in CNV patients. The 1H NMR spectra results revealed successful conjugation of iRGD peptide into PLGA NPs. The miR-539-PLGA.NPs and miR-539-iRGD-PLGA.NPs were prepared and showed a particle size of 300 ± 3 and 306.40 ± 4 nm, respectively. A reduction in human retinal microvascular endothelial cell (HRMEC) viability was shown 48 and 72 h post transfection with miR-539 incorporated in PLGA NPs and iRGD-PLGA.NPs. iRGD-functionalized PLGA NPs caused further significant reduction in cell viability when compared with plain ones, revealing an enhancement in the NP uptake with iRGD-grafted NPs. The current study showed that miR-539-PLGA.NPs and miR-539-iRGD-PLGA.NPs are promising approaches that reduced the viability of HRMECs, suggesting their therapeutic potential in the treatment of CNV. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abiotic stresses are the biggest threat to the increasing population worldwide. Salt stress is one of the most significant abiotic stresses, affecting 20% of the crop production around the world. Plant-derived smoke (PDS) has been reported as a biologically active plant product in stimulating seed germination, seedling growth and physiological characteristics of crops under abiotic stress conditions. Nevertheless, studies showing how PDS alleviates salt stress are largely unknown. Here, we report the molecular mechanism of how PDS could alleviate salt stress in wheat. Initially, PDS at 2000 ppm enhanced seed germination, root/shoot length and seedling fresh weight. However, PDS at 1000 and 500 ppm did not show any significant effect. Salt stress at 150 and 200 mM significantly reduced seed germination rate, root/shoot length and fresh weight of the wheat seedlings. Interestingly, PDS supplementation at 2000 ppm concentration was sufficient to restore seed germination under salt stress condition. Moreover, PDS improved root/shoot length and seedling biomass under 150 and 200 mM salt stress, suggesting that PDS is a potent plant product, capable of abiotic stress alleviation in crops. In comparison to the control, PDS-treated seedlings displayed increased activity of major antioxidative enzymes such as superoxide dismutase, peroxidase and ascorbate peroxidase under salt stress, resulting in reduced levels of hydrogen peroxide and lipid peroxidase, showing that PDS can possibly help in salt stress amelioration by regulating redox homeostasis. Importantly, salt stress altered the expression of germination marker genes, such as TaSAM, TaPHY, TaBGU (germination positive effectors), TaLEA and TaGARS34 (germination negative effectors), suggesting the potential role of PDS in the germination pathway under salt stress. Further, PDS modulated the transcript levels of several salt stress stress-responsive genes, including TaSOS4, TaBADH and TaHKT2. In conclusion, this study provides a molecular and physiological basis for elucidating the mechanism of how PDS functions in stress induction in wheat, as well as demonstrates the importance of PDS in agricultural practices, laying the groundwork for future research into the role of PDS in the amelioration of abiotic stresses in various plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A facile and efficient method for synthesis of fenamic acid hydrazides from their acids in one-step reaction under microwave irradiation and solvent-free conditions was developed. Compared with the two-step conventional heating method, the process was simple, the reaction time was very short and the yields were almost quantitative. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Green synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) employing an aqueous plant extract has emerged as a viable eco-friendly method. The aim of the study was to synthesize AgNPs by using plant extract of Sanvitalia procumbens (creeping zinnia) in which the phytochemicals present in plant extract act as a stabilizing and reducing agent. For the stability of the synthesized AgNPs, different parameters like AgNO3 concentration, volume ratios of AgNO3, temperature, pH, and contact time were studied. Further, AgNPs were characterized by UV–visible spectroscopy, FT-IR (Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy), XRD (X-ray Diffraction), SEM (Scanning Electron Microscopy), and EDX (Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectrometer) analysis. FT-IR analysis showed that the plant extract contained essential functional groups like O–H stretching of carboxylic acid, N–H stretching of secondary amides, and C–N stretching of aromatic amines, and C–O indicates the vibration of alcohol, ester, and carboxylic acid that facilitated in the green synthesis of AgNPs. The crystalline nature of synthesized AgNPs was confirmed by XRD, while the elemental composition of AgNPs was detected by energy dispersive X-ray analysis (EDX). SEM studies showed the mean particle diameter of silver nanoparticles. The synthesized AgNPs were used for photocatalytic degradation of Orange G and Direct blue-15 (OG and DB-15), which were analyzed by UV-visible spectroscopy. Maximum degradation percentage of OG and DB-15 azo dyes was observed, without any significant silver leaching, thereby signifying notable photocatalytic properties of AgNPs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cocrystallization is a promising approach to alter physicochemical properties of active pharmaceutical ingredients (hereafter abbreviated as APIs) bearing poor profile. Nowadays pharmaceutical industries are focused on preparing drug-drug cocrystals of APIs that are often prescribed in combination therapies by physicians. Physicians normally prescribe antibiotic with an analgesic/antipyretic drug to combat several ailments in a better and more efficient way. In this work, azithromycin (AZT) and paracetamol (PCM) cocrystals were prepared in 1:1 molar ratio using slow solvent evaporation method. The cocrystals were characterized by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), Raman spectroscopy, powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD), differential scanning calorimeter (DSC), thermo gravimetric analysis (TGA) and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Vibrational spectroscopy and DSC confirmed that both APIs interact physically and showed chemical compatibility, while PXRD pattern of the starting material and products revealed that cocrystal have in a unique crystalline phase. The degree of hydration was confirmed by TGA analysis and result indicates monohydrate cocrystal formation. The HPLC analysis confirmed equimolar ratio of AZT:PCM in the cocrystal. The in vitro dissolution rate, saturation solubility, and antimicrobial activity were evaluated for AZT dihydrate and the resulting cocrystals. The cocrystals exhibited better dissolution rate, solubility and enhanced biological activities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The reaction of 1,3-Diisobutyl thiourea (Tu) with metal salts, {[CuX (X = Cl, I)], [ZnCl2] and [HgI2] in an appropriate stoichiometric ratio afforded the corresponding metal complexes [Tu2CuCl] (1), [Tu3CuI] (2), [Tu2ZnCl2] (3) and [Tu2HgI2] (4) in good yields. The FT-IR data show typically broad signals (3278–3288 cm−1) attributed to the involvement of NH bonds in extensive hydrogen bonding. The structures of complexes were proposed based on a spectroscopic data set. Compounds 1 and 2 were additionally characterized by single-crystal X-ray analysis. Complexes 1–4 were tested for their free radical scavenging efficiency using 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl free radical (hereafter abbreviated as DPPH). The free radical scavenging activity was a function of decrease in the resultant absorption of DPPH solution after the mixing of an appropriate concentration of the respective complex. The activity of complexes was determined to be dose dependent and increased concentration of the complex resulted in improved antioxidant activity. Compound 1 was found to be the most efficient, with 79.9% free radical scavenging activity. Complexes were also tested for their efficiency against selected strains of bacteria (E. coli, S. flexneri, S. typhi, and P. aeruginosa) and the activities were compared to commercially available standard drug cephradine. Compound 1 was more active against P.aeruginosa (ZI 13.25), while compound 4 was found to be more active against E. coli (ZI 11.0), S. flexneri (ZI 11.2), and S. typhi (ZI 10.5). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current study is aimed to fabricate doxorubicin (Dox) loaded mild temperature responsive liposomes (MTLs) by thin film hydration technique for enhanced in vitro and in vivo anticancer efficacy against hepatocellular carcinoma. The aforementioned Dox loaded MTLs were developed and optimized with extrusion and drug loading techniques. The optimized MTLs were in optimum size range (118.20 ± 2.81–187.13 ± 4.15 nm), colloidal stability (−13.27 ± 0.04 to −32.34 ± 0.15 mV), and enhanced entrapment of Dox (28.71 ± 2.01–79.24 ± 2.16). Furthermore, the optimized formulation (MTL1-E(AL)) embodied improved physicochemical stability deducted by Fourier transform infra-red (FTIR) spectroscopy and mild hyperthermia-based phase transition demonstrated from differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). An in vitro drug release study revealed mild hyperthermia assisted rapid in vitro Dox release from MTLs-E(AL) (T100% ≈ 1 h) by Korsmeyer–Peppas model based Fickian diffusion (n < 0.45). Likewise, an in vitro cytotoxicity study and lower IC50 values also symbolized mild hyperthermia (40.2 °C) based quick and improved cytotoxicity of MTL1-E(AL) in HepG2 and MCF-7 cells than Dox. The fluorescence microscopy also represented enhanced cellular internalization of MTL1-E(AL) at mild hyperthermia compared to the normothermia (37.2 °C). In addition, an in vivo animal study portrayed the safety, improved anticancer efficacy and healing of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) through MTL1-E(AL). In brief, the Dox loaded MTLs could be utilized as safe and effective therapeutic strategy against HCC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Aquifoliaceae is an important family and has been used traditionally for some time. One of the members of this family is the Ilex dipyrena wall, which itself possesses a potential medicinal importance. This plant is traditionally used for the treatment of various ailments including pain, swelling, burns, and fever. The current study was designed to screen out the antioxidant and analgesic potential of this plant and to verify its traditional uses, along with its phytochemical profile. Extracts were subjected to antioxidant, analgesic, and phytochemical analysis using DPPH, chemical-induced (acetic acid and formalin) nociception models and GC-MS analysis, respectively. The leaf, bark, and fruit extracts showed significant antioxidant activity compared to that of standard. Likewise, all the extracts demonstrated significant (p < 0.01) analgesic activity in a mice model. In acetic acid induced analgesia, the leaf, bark, and fruit extracts caused 51.64, 56.13 and 59.52% inhibition, respectively at a dose of 100 mg/kg while at 200 mg/kg it showed 83.01, 71.69 and 75.47% inhibition, respectively. In Formalin-induced paw-licking assay, fruit extract showed 59.42 and 64.19% inhibition at 200 mg/kg dose in the first and second phase, respectively. The GC-MS analysis revealed the presence of cathinone, phenylpropanolamine, dl-phenylephrine, amphetamine, myristic acid, and palmitic acid. Results of the study suggest that crude extracts from different parts of this plant may be a useful source for the development of novel analgesics. However, further investigation in terms of isolation of bioactive compounds and their toxicological evaluations are needed to validate the observed results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The X-ray crystal structure determination of the glutaric acid-amide derivative, 4-ClC6H4N(H)C(=O)(CH2)3C(=O)OH (1), is described. The backbone of the molecule adopts an extended, all-trans configuration but the terminal carboxylic acid and phenyl resides are twisted out of the plane through the bridging atoms, as seen in the torsion angles of O(carboxylic acid)–C(m)–C(m)–C(m) [13.9(5)°] and C(m)–N–C(p)–C(p) [47.1(4)°]; m = methylene and p = phenyl. The most striking feature of the molecular packing is the formation of supramolecular tapes mediated by carboxylic acid-O–H⋯O(carbonyl) and amide-N–H⋯O(amide) hydrogen bonding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Haemonchus contortus is an important gastrointestinal nematode parasite of the tropical and sub-tropical regions that cause haemonchosis in small ruminants like goats and sheep. It causes low production, reduced growth and may cause death of the infected animals. Due to the resistance development and environmental issues, the use of anthelmintics can be replaced with biological control, which is an environment friendly alternative. In the present study, three bacteria viz; Comamonas testosteroni, C. jiangduensis and Pseudomonas weihenstephanesis showed significant effect on nematode mortality and egg hatch inhibition. It was also observed that the anthelmintic activity of these bacteria was dose dependent, where 100% bacterial metabolite concentration showed the highest activity. It is suggested that these bacteria may included in the integrated nematode management. Haemonchosis is a parasitic disease of small ruminants that adversely affects livestock production. Haemonchus contortus is one of the most prevalent nematode parasites that infect the abomasum of small ruminants. This parasite reduces milk production, overall growth and sometimes causes the death of the infected animals. The evaluation of the biocontrol potential of some abomasum bacterial isolates against H. contortus is investigated in this study. Out of which, three isolates—Comamonas testosteroni, Comamonas jiangduensis, Pseudomonas weihenstephanesis—show significant effect against the nematode L3, adult, and egg hatch inhibition assays. Various concentrations of metabolites from these bacteria are prepared and applied in different treatments compared with control. In the case of adult mortality assay, 50% metabolites of C. testosteroni and P. weihenstephanesis show 46% adult mortality, whereas C. jiangduensis shows 40% mortality. It is observed that decreasing the concentration of bacterial metabolite, lowers nematode mortality. The minimum nematode mortality rate is recorded at the lowest filtrates concentration of all the bacterial isolates. The same trend is observed in egg hatch inhibition assay, where the higher concentration of bacterial culture filtrates shows 100% inhibition of H. contortus egg. It is concluded that the effect of bacterial culture filtrates against H. contortus is dose-dependent for their activity against nematode L3, adult, and inhibition of egg hatchment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bioassays guided phytochemical investigations on the ethyl acetate-soluble fraction of the root material of Ballota pseudodictamnus (L.) Benth. led to the isolation of two new compounds, ballodiolic acid A (1) and ballodiolic acid B (2), along with three known compounds ballodiolic acid (3), ballotenic acid (4), and β-amyrin (5), which were also isolated for the first time from this species by using multiple chromatographic techniques. The structures of the compounds (1–5) were determined by modern spectroscopic analysis including 1D and 2D NMR techniques and chemical studies. In three separate experiments, the isolated compounds (1–5) demonstrated potent antioxidant scavenging activity, with IC50 values ranging from 07.22–34.10 μM in the hydroxyl radical (•OH) inhibitory activity test, 58.10–148.55 μM in the total ROS (reactive oxygen species) inhibitory activity test, and 6.23–69.01 μM in the peroxynitrite (ONOO−) scavenging activity test. With IC50 values of (07.22 ± 0.03, 58.10 ± 0.07, 6.23 ± 0.04 μM) for •OH, total ROS, and scavenge ONOO−, respectively, ballodiolic acid B (2) showed the highest scavenging ability. Antibacterial and antifungal behaviors were also exposed to the pure compounds 1–5. In contrast to compounds 4 and 5, compounds 1–3 were active against all bacterial strains studied, with a good zone of inhibition proving these as a potent antibacterial agent. Similarly, compared to compounds 3–5, compounds 1 and 2 with a 47 percent and 45 percent respective inhibition zone were found to be more active against tested fungal strains. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hepatitis C is affecting millions of people around the globe annually, which leads to death in very high numbers. After many years of research, hepatitis C virus (HCV) remains a serious threat to the human population and needs proper management. The in silico approach in the drug discovery process is an efficient method in identifying inhibitors for various diseases. In our study, the interaction between Epigallocatechin-3-gallate, a component of green tea, and envelope glycoprotein E2 of HCV is evaluated. Epigallocatechin-3-gallate is the most promising polyphenol approved through cell culture analysis that can inhibit the entry of HCV. Therefore, various in silico techniques have been employed to find out other potential inhibitors that can behave as EGCG. Thus, the homology modelling of E2 protein was performed. The potential lead molecules were predicted using ligand-based as well as structure-based virtual screening methods. The compounds obtained were then screened through PyRx. The drugs obtained were ranked based on their binding affinities. Furthermore, the docking of the topmost drugs was performed by AutoDock Vina, while its 2D interactions were plotted in LigPlot+. The lead compound mms02387687 (2-[[5-[(4-ethylphenoxy) methyl]-4-prop-2-enyl-1,2,4-triazol-3-yl] sulfanyl]-N-[3(trifluoromethyl) phenyl] acetamide) was ranked on top, and we believe it can serve as a drug against HCV in the future, owing to experimental validation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Ichthyoses are a large group of hereditary cornification disorders, which are both clinically and etiologically heterogeneous and affect mostly all the skin surface of the patients. Ichthyosis has its origin in an ancient Greek word "ichthys" meaning fish, this is because the ichthyosis patients have dry, thickened, and scaly skin. There is an excess accumulation of epidermal cells resulting in the appearance of continuous and widespread scales on the body. There are many varieties of ichthyosis with a broad spectrum of intensity, severity, and associated symptoms, most of them are extremely rare. Ichthyosis vulgaris is the most frequently occurring type of ichthyoses. Method: The present study consists of four Pakistani ichthyosis families (A, B, C, and D). Whole exome sequencing (WES) approach was used to identify the pathogenic sequence variants in probands. The segregation of these variants in other participants was confirmed by Sanger sequencing. Results: Total four variants including, two splice site (TGM1: c.2088 + 1G > A) and (SPINK5: c.882 + 1G > T), a missense (SULT2B1: c.419C > T; p. Ala140Val), and a nonsense (FLG: c.6109C > T; p. Arg2037Ter) variant were identified in families A, C, B, and D, respectively, as causative mutations responsible for ichthyosis in these families. Conclusion: Our study unravels the molecular etiology of the four Pakistani ichthyosis families and validates the involvement of TGM1, SULT2B1, SPINK5, and FLG, in the etiology of different forms of ichthyosis. In addition, this study also aims to give a detailed clinical report of the studied ichthyosis families. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Ferula ammoniacum (D. Don) is one of the endemic medicinal plants that is traditionally used to treat a number of diseases. Although the plant has been used to enhance memory, the investigational evidence supporting the nootropic effect was unsubstantial. Hence, the rationale for this study was to assess the potential beneficial effect of F. ammoniacum seed extracts on learning and memory in mice. Methods: The powdered plant samples (aerial parts) were subjected to extraction ad fractionation. Among the extracts, crude and ethyl acetate extracts were screened for major phytochemicals through HPLC analysis. All the extracts were evaluated for the in vitro anticholinesterase (AChE and BChE) and antioxidant potentials. Among the extracts the active fraction was further assessed for improving learning and memory in mice using behavioural tests like Y-maze and novel object recognition test (NORT) using standard protocols. After behavioural tests, all the animals were sacrificed and brains tissues were assessed for the ex vivo anticholinesterase and antioxidant potentials. Results: Phytochemicals like chlorogenic acid, quercetin, mandelic acid, phloroglucinol, hydroxy benzoic acid, malic acid, epigallocatechin gallate, ellagic acid, rutin, and pyrogallol were identified in crude methanolic extract (Fa.Met) and ethyl acetate fraction (Fa.EtAc) through HPLC. Fa.EtAc and Fa.Chf extracts more potently inhibited AChE and BChE with IC50 values of 40 and 43 µg/mL, and 41 and 42 µg/mL, respectively. Similarly highest free radical scavenging potential was exhibited by Fa.EtAc fraction against DPPH (IC50 = 100 µg/mL) and ABTS (IC50 = 120 µg/mL). The extract doses, 100 and 200 mg/kg body weight significantly (p < 0.01) improved the short-term memory by increasing the percent spontaneous alternation in the Y-maze test along with increasing discrimination index in the NORT that clearly indicated the enhancement in the recognition memory of mice. Conclusion: The extracts more potently scavenged the tested free radicals, exhibited anticholinesterase activities, improved the learning abilities and reduced the memory impairment induced by scopolamine in mice model thus suggesting that these extracts could be effectively used for the management of oxidative stress, neurodegenerative diseases and memory loss. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Caralluma europaea (Guss.) N.E.Br.: (C. europaea) is a wild medicinal plant belonging to the family Apocynaceae. It is commonly used in traditional medicines for treating several diseases. The present work aims to evaluate the anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antifungal potentials of C. europaea fractions including hydro ethanol (ET CE), n-butanol (But CE), and polyphenol (Poly CE). The chemical composition of hydroethanol, n-butanol, and polyphenol-rich fractions from C. europaea were determined using GC-MS after silylation. The anti-inflammatory effect of hydroethanol, n-butanol, and polyphenol-rich fractions was studied by carrageenan-induced paw edema. Antibacterial and antifungal activities of hydroethanol, n-butanol, and polyphenol-rich fractions against Gram-positive bacteria, Gram-negative bacteria, and yeasts were assessed using the disc diffusion and micro-dilution assays. The findings of the chemical characterization affirmed the presence of interesting bioactive compounds in C. europaea fractions. The polyphenol-rich fraction was the best inhibitor of edema by75.68% after 6 h of treatment. The hydroethanol fraction was the most active against both bacteria and yeasts. This study contributes to society as it provides potential bioactive compounds in C. europaea extract, which may help in fighting nosocomial antibiotic-resistant microbes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The need of non-toxic synthesis protocols for nanoparticles arises developing interest in biogenic approaches. The present project was focused on cost effective, environment congenial synthesis of Ag nanoparticles and their biological applications. Leaf and root extracts of Ricinus communis were used as a reducing and stabilizing agent in synthesis process. A Proposed mechanism in published literature suggested that Indole-3-acetic acid, l-valine, triethyl citrate, and quercetin-3-0-p-d-glucopyranoside phytoconstituents of Ricinus communis act as reducing and capping agents. The synthesized Ag NPs were characterized with a help X-ray diffractometer, Transmission electron microscopy, UV-Vis spectrophotometry and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR). The XRD results inveterate the synthesis of pure nano size crystalline silver particles. The FTIR data revealed the possible functional groups of biomolecules involved in bio reduction and capping for efficient stabilization of silver nanoparticles. TEM analysis confirmed the almost spherical morphology of synthesized particles with mean size 29 and 38 nm for R-Ag-NPs (root) and L-Ag-NPs (leaf), respectively. The stability of synthesized nanoparticles was examined against heat and pH. It was observed that synthesized nanoparticles were stable up to 100 °C temperature and also showed stability in neutral, basic and slightly acidic medium (pH 05–06) for several months while below pH 5 were unstable. The synthesized silver nanoparticles had promising inhibition efficiency in multiple applications, including as bactericidal/fungicidal agents and Urease/Xanthine oxidase enzymes inhibitors. The cytotoxicity of synthesized nanoparticles shows that the concentration under 20 μg/mL were biologically compatible. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, indole derivatives have acquired conspicuous significance due to their wide spectrum of biological activities—antibacterial, antiviral, and anticonvulsant. This compound is derived from naturally grown plants. Therefore, synthesis of a novel "3-(Naphthalen-1-ylimino)indolin-2-one" compound (2) and its analysis using UPLC systems along with antimicrobial assessment was the aim of the current study. Isatin was used as a parent drug for synthesizing compound (2). Liquid Chromatographic analysis was performed using a C18 BEH column (1.7 μm 2.1 × 50 mm) by UPLC systems. Degradation studies were carried out to see whether acid, base, thermal, and oxidizing agents had any impact on the synthesized molecule in stress conditions (100 °C). A lipid-based self-nanoemulsifying formulation was developed and selectivity, specificity, recovery, accuracy, and precision were measured as part of the UPLC system's validation process. Antimicrobial studies were conducted using gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria. The standard samples were run with a concentration range of 5.0–100.0 μg/mL using the isocratic mobile phase comprising of methanol/water (70/30 %v/v) at 234 nm; good linearity (R2 = 0.9998) was found. The lower limits of detection (LOD) and quantitation (LOQ) of the method were found to be 0.81 μg/mL and 2.5 μg/mL, respectively. The coefficients of variation were found to be less than 2%. The antimicrobial study suggests that compound (2) has a substantial growth effect against gram-negative bacteria. It was successfully synthesized and applied to measure the concentrations in lipid-based dosage form, along with potent antimicrobial activities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to synthesize, characterize, and evaluate neoteric imine compounds for antimicrobial activity and hemocompatibility. Four compounds were synthesized using 3-thiophene carboxaldehyde, ethanol, amine, and acetic acid. The compounds were characterized using nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD). A solubility study was conducted with various solvents and surfactants at 40 °C. An in vitro antimicrobial assay was performed against bacterial and fungal strains to determine the zone of inhibition and minimum inhibitory concentrations. Finally, an in vitro hemolysis study was conducted using rat erythrocytes. The structure of the compounds was confirmed by NMR, FTIR corroborated their functional group attributes, DSC determined their enthalpies of fusion and fusion temperatures, and PXRD confirmed their crystalline nature. These compounds were water-insoluble but soluble in chloroform, with a maximum solubility of ~80 mg/mL. The antimicrobial assay suggested that two of the products exerted potent activities against C. albicans and several bacterial strains. Finally, hemolysis analysis excluded the possibility of hemolysis at the assessed concentrations. In conclusion, two of the novel imine compounds showed promise as antimicrobial agents to control local and systemic microbial infections in a suitable dosage form. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Withania frutescens (W. frutescens) is a medicinal plant widely used to treat several diseases. This work aims to study phytochemical composition as well as acute and subacute toxicity of W. frutescens hydroethanolic extract in mice. The phytochemical composition of W. frutescens extract was performed using gas chromatographic analysis. Acute toxicity was studied in vivo with oral administration of single doses 400 mg/kg, 1000 mg/kg, and 2000 mg/kg for 14 days. Subacute toxicity was studied with the administration of repeated doses of 400 mg/kg/day and 2000 mg/kg/day for 28 days. Phytochemical analysis of W. frutescens hydro-ethanolic extract confirmed the presence of interesting chemical compounds. Acute toxicity results showed no toxic symptoms in mice treated with an increasing dose up to a maximum of 2000 mg/kg. Alongside acute toxicity, subacute data showed no clinical symptoms nor biochemical or histological alteration in mice treated with an increasing dose up to a maximum of 2000 mg/kg compared to the control group (p < 0.05). This study shows no toxic effects in animals treated with W. frutescens extract, and, therefore, this plant can be considered safe in animals up to 2000 mg/kg under both acute and subacute toxicity conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

New pyranocoumarin and coumarin-sulfonamide derivatives were prepared and evaluated for their antioxidant, antimicrobial, and/or anti-inflammatory activities. Coumarin-sulfonamide compounds 8a–d demonstrated significant antioxidant activity, while 7c,d, 8c,d, and 9c,d exhibited antimicrobial activity equal to or higher than the standard antimicrobials against at least one tested microorganism. Regarding the anti-inflammatory testing, pyranocoumarins 2b, 3a,b and 5c and coumarin-sulfonamide compound 9a showed more potent antiproteinase activity than aspirin in vitro; however, five compounds were as potent as aspirin. The anti-inflammatory activity of the promising compounds was further assessed pharmacologically on formaldehyde-induced rat paw oedema and showed significant inhibition of oedema. For in vitro COX-inhibitory activity of coumarin derivatives, pyranocoumarin derivative 5a was the most selective (SI = 152) and coumarin-sulfonamide derivative 8d was most active toward COX-2 isozyme. The most active derivatives met the in silico criteria for orally active drugs; thus, they may serve as promising candidates to develop more potent and highly efficient antioxidant, antimicrobial, and/or anti-inflammatory agents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bioassays guided phytochemical investigations on the ethyl acetate-soluble fraction of the root material of Ballota pseudodictamnus (L.) Benth. led to the isolation of two new compounds, ballodiolic acid A ( 1 ) and ballodiolic acid B ( 2 ), along with three known compounds ballodiolic acid ( 3 ), ballotenic acid ( 4 ), and β-amyrin ( 5 ), which were also isolated for the first time from this species by using multiple chromatographic techniques. The structures of the compounds ( 1 - 5 ) were determined by modern spectroscopic analysis including 1D and 2D NMR techniques and chemical studies. In three separate experiments, the isolated compounds ( 1 - 5 ) demonstrated potent antioxidant scavenging activity, with IC 50 values ranging from 07.22-34.10 μM in the hydroxyl radical ( • OH) inhibitory activity test, 58.10-148.55 μM in the total ROS (reactive oxygen species) inhibitory activity test, and 6.23-69.01 μM in the peroxynitrite (ONOO - ) scavenging activity test. With IC 50 values of (07.22 ± 0.03, 58.10 ± 0.07, 6.23 ± 0.04 μM) for • OH, total ROS, and scavenge ONOO - , respectively, ballodiolic acid B ( 2 ) showed the highest scavenging ability. Antibacterial and antifungal behaviors were also exposed to the pure compounds 1 - 5 . In contrast to compounds 4 and 5 , compounds 1 - 3 were active against all bacterial strains studied, with a good zone of inhibition proving these as a potent antibacterial agent. Similarly, compared to compounds 3 - 5 , compounds 1 and 2 with a 47 percent and 45 percent respective inhibition zone were found to be more active against tested fungal strains.

In recent years, indole derivatives have acquired conspicuous significance due to their wide spectrum of biological activities-antibacterial, antiviral, and anticonvulsant. This compound is derived from naturally grown plants. Therefore, synthesis of a novel "3-(Naphthalen-1-ylimino) indoline-2-one" compound ( 2 ) and its analysis using UPLC systems along with antimicrobial assessment was the aim of the current study. Isatin was used as a parent drug for synthesizing compound ( 2 ). Liquid Chromatographic analysis was performed using a C18 BEH column (1.7 µm 2.1 × 50 mm) by UPLC systems. Degradation studies were carried out to see whether acid, base, thermal, and oxidizing agents had any impact on the synthesized molecule in stress conditions (100 °C). A lipid-based self-nanoemulsifying formulation was developed and selectivity, specificity, recovery, accuracy, and precision were measured as part of the UPLC system's validation process. Antimicrobial studies were conducted using gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria. The standard samples were run with a concentration range of 5.0-100.0 µg/mL using the isocratic mobile phase comprising of methanol/water (70/30 % v / v ) at 234 nm; good linearity (R 2 = 0.9998) was found. The lower limits of detection (LOD) and quantitation (LOQ) of the method were found to be 0.81 µg/mL and 2.5 µg/mL, respectively. The coefficients of variation were found to be less than 2%. The antimicrobial study suggests that compound ( 2 ) has a substantial growth effect against gram-negative bacteria. It was successfully synthesized and applied to measure the concentrations in lipid-based dosage form, along with potent antimicrobial activities.

Background and Objectives: Elevated oxidative stress has been shown to play an important role in the diagnosis and prognosis of stress and memory-related complications. Mukia madrespatana ( M. madrespatana ) has been reported to have various biological and antioxidant properties. We intended to evaluate the effect of M. madrespatana peel on single immobilization stress-induced behavioral deficits and memory changes in rats. Materials and Methods: M. madrespatana peel (2000 mg/kg/day, orally) was administered to control and immobilize stressed animals for 4 weeks. Anxiolytic, antidepressant, and memory-enhancing effects of M. madrespatana were observed in both unstressed and stressed animals. Results: Lipid peroxidation was decreased while antioxidant enzymes were increased in both unstressed and stressed animals. Acetylcholine level was increased while acetylcholinesterase activity was decreased in both M. madrespatana treated unstressed and stressed rats. There was also an improvement in memory function. Serotonin neurotransmission was also regulated in M. madrespatana treated rats following immobilization stress with anxiolytic and anti-depressive effects. Conclusion: Based on the current study, it is suggested that M. madrespatana has strong antioxidant properties and may be beneficial as dietary supplementation in stress and memory-related conditions., Competing Interests: The authors report no conflict of interest.

The protected 2-formyl-L-arabinal 2 reacted with thiourea and cyanamide in the presence of sodium hydride to afford via ring transformations the 5-[1R,2S-1,2- bis(benzyloxy)-3-hydroxypropyl]-1,2-dihydropyrimidines 3 and 4, respectively. Similarly, treatment of 2 with 3-amino-2H-1,2,4-triazole yielded 6-[1R,2S-1,2- bis(benzyloxy)-3-hydroxypropyl][1,2,4]-triazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine (5).