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We report a case of a 57-year-old man, who underwent right eye silicone oil injection as a part of his surgical treatment for rhegmatogenous retinal detachment. Following this, on the first postoperative day, he developed acute postoperative intraocular inflammation. There was circumciliary congestion, diffuse corneal oedema, anterior chamber (AC) reaction, hypopyon and a pupillary membrane. The AC had not been entered during the surgery. No patients, who had been operated on the same day, or with the materials having the same batch number, developed similar reactions. We started the patient on hourly topical steroids and cycloplegics after which the patient’s condition showed gradual improvement. At the 2 weeks follow-up appointment, his pupillary membrane had completely contracted and the AC was quiet. This case highlights a clinical picture of acute postoperative silicone oil-induced ocular inflammation, which was resolved through medical management.

FMN riboswitch is novel drug targets for the design of new antibiotics and efforts have been employed to design new charged and uncharged ligands. Uncharged ligands have shown advantages of not requiring any transporter for intracellular transport or proteins for their phosphorylation. 5FDQD is recently reported neutral ligand for FMN riboswitch active against the Clostridium difficile infection in mice. However, the crystal structure of 5FDQD bound FMN riboswitch is not available, and the mechanism of ligand binding and triggering the function of riboswitch is not well understood. We have examined the charged FMN and the neutral 5FDQD for their binding affinity with the FMN riboswitch using the well-tempered metadynamics (WT-MtD) simulation technique. The crystal structure of FMN riboswitch shows that the FMN interacts with the J4/5 region through phosphate group with G62, however, 5FDQD takes the advantage of π-π stacking interaction with the same residue of riboswitch observed from the WT-MtD simulation results. The simulation results show that the presence of fluorine on phenyl ring in 5FDQD is important to enhance the binding affinity of the neutral ligands with the FMN riboswitch. The WT-MtD simulation reveals that the 1,2 difluoro substitution on phenyl ring improves the π-π stacking interaction with G62 and enhance the binding free energy (-34.1 kcal/mol) compared to 5FDQD (-33.4 kcal/mol). However, the 1,3 difluoro substitution on the phenyl ring lowered the binding affinity due to the electrostatic repulsion with phosphate group in G62. The electron-donating substitution on phenyl ring such as amino group lowered the binding affinity (-28.8 kcal/mol) with riboswitch than the 5FDQD. The WT-MtD simulation results suggest that the nature of the substituting group and its position on the phenyl ring in neutral ligands are crucial to govern the binding affinity with FMN riboswitch.

NiCo2O4 nanoparticles have been widely investigated in recent times for applications in storage devices especially in supercapacitors due to their high redox activity, high specific capacitance and excellent ion exchange capability. The present work features the molar concentrations effect of Nickel (Ni) and Cobalt (Co) in synthesizing NiCo2O4 nanoparticles as an ideal electrode material for supercapacitors. Properties of the as-synthesized NiCo2O4 nanoparticles are evaluated and compared using various characterization studies such as X-Ray Diffraction (XRD), Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscope (FESEM) with Energy Dispersive X-Ray Spectroscopy (EDS), Brunauer Emmett Teller (BET) tools. Based on the results acquired from the mentioned analytical tools, the best concentration ratio is identified and further the optimized sample is investigated using Cyclic Voltammetry (CV) and Electrochemical Spectroscopy (EIS) techniques. The electrochemical analysis of the optimized sample suggests that it would be an effectual electrode material applicant for energy storage devices especially in supercapacitors.

The significant role of Tris(2,2,2-trifluoroethyl) phosphite (TTFP) as an efficient additive during cycling of the layered nanostructured LiNi0.1Mg0.1Co0.8O2 and olivine LiFePO4 cathode materials in EC/DMC and 1M LiPF6 electrolyte for Li-ion battery are extensively investigated in this work. The electrochemical characterization techniques such as cyclic voltammetry, galvanostatic charge/discharge, and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy show that TTFP improves cycling stability and reduces the irreversible capacity of LiNi0.1Mg0.1Co0.8O2 and LiFePO4 electrodes. Also, the presence of TTFP in electrolyte solution reduces the impedance in LiNi0.1Mg0.1Co0.8O2 and LiFePO4 cathode materials at room temperature. A family of Nyquist plots was obtained from LiNi0.1Mg0.1Co0.8O2 and LiFePO4 electrodes for various potentials during the course of charging. The addition of TTFP in the electrolyte reduces the surface impedance of lithiated LiNi0.1Mg0.1Co0.8O2 and LiFePO4 which can be attributed to the reaction of the additive on the electrode’s surface. Also, the presence of the additive TTFP in LiNi0.1Mg0.1Co0.8O2 and LiFePO4 cell enhances the lithium diffusion rate and improves the electronic conductivity of the cathode material.

Epidemiological studies suggest suppression of the lymphocytes function through cholinergic stimulation due to organophosphorus pesticide exposure. The study aimed to assess the alteration in the levels of immune cell phenotypes among farm women (FW) and farm children (FC) who were occupationally exposed to pesticides and age/gender-matched control subjects belonging to Rangareddy district (Telangana, India). A total of 129 FW, 129 FC and 268 age/gender-matched controls were recruited. Blood samples were collected from the selected subjects to estimate the levels of nine organophosphorus pesticide residues and CD (CD3+, CD4+, CD8+, CD16+ and CD19+) cell markers using LC-MS/MS and flow cytometry, respectively. Independent t-test analysis was conducted to compare the immune cell phenotypes between exposed and control groups. Spearman's rank correlation test was further carried out to identify any possible correlation between the pesticide residues and CD markers. The mean percentage for CD4+, CD8+ and CD16+ was found to be significantly low, while for CD19 + itwas significantly high in the FW as compared to the CW group (p < 0.01). Further, the residues of chlorpyrifos and monocrotophos among FW were found to be significantly correlating with the mean percentages of CD19+ and CD8+ markers, respectively. The cell marker subsets of CD4+ and CD8+ were significantly low in FC children 9-12 years and 13-15 years age groups, respectively (p < 0.05). Also, these levels were significantly correlating with the residues of malathion and monocrotophos. The present study could indicate an alteration in the lymphocytes' subpopulations, which may thereby infer the toxicity in the first phase assessment of immunotoxicity. Therefore, further studies may be conducted to understand the suspected pesticides' mechanism along with various other factors in causing immune suppression coupled with nutritional and other related disorders.

Protein-ligand interactions play a significant role in all living organisms, thereby affecting the design and application of drugs and other biomaterials. The current study reports the binding of vitamin B12 to hemoglobin, employing optical spectroscopy and computational methods. It is observed that vitamin B12 quenched the intrinsic fluorescence of hemoglobin. The nature of quenching appears to be static according to the steady-state and time-resolved fluorescence measurements. The conformational changes of hemoglobin caused by vitamin B12 interactions were studied by synchronous fluorescence spectroscopy and protein secondary structure analyses. The synchronous fluorescence spectra indicate the tryptophan residue microenvironment change while no secondary structural change is observed from circular dichroism spectra and molecular dynamics (MD) simulation study. The computational molecular docking elucidated the probable binding of vitamin B12 at the active site of hemoglobin, whereas the stability of the hemoglobin-vitamin B12 complex was studied by MD simulation. The study might be helpful for the treatment of pernicious anemia, hereditary transcobalamin deficiency, and performance enhancement of elite athletes.

Purpose Chondrocytes, isolated from articular cartilage, are routinely utilized in cell-based therapeutics for the treatment of cartilage pathologies. However, restoration of the biological tissue faces hindrance due to the formation of primarily fibrocartilaginous repair tissue. Chondroprogenitors have been reported to display superiority in terms of their chondrogenic potential and lesser proclivity for hypertrophy. In line with our recent results, comparing chondroprogenitors and chondrocytes, we undertook isolation of progenitors from the general pool of chondrocytes, based on surface marker expression, namely, CD166, CD34, and CD146, to eliminate off-target differentiation and generate cells of stronger chondrogenic potential. This study aimed to compare chondrocytes, chondroprogenitors, CD34−CD166+CD146+ sorted chondrocytes, and CD34−CD166+CD146− sorted chondrocytes. Methods Chondrocytes obtained from 3 human osteoarthritic knee joints were subjected to sorting, to isolate CD166+ and CD34− subsets, and then were further sorted to obtain CD146+ and CD146− cells. Chondrocytes and fibronectin adhesion-derived chondroprogenitors served as controls. Assessment parameters included reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction for markers of chondrogenesis and hypertrophy, trilineage differentiation, and total GAG/DNA content. Results Based on gene expression analysis, CD34−CD166+CD146+ sorted chondrocytes and chondroprogenitors displayed comparability and significantly higher chondrogenesis with a lower tendency for hypertrophy when compared to chondrocytes and CD34−CD166+CD146− sorted chondrocytes. The findings were also reiterated in multilineage potential differentiation with the 146+ subset and chondroprogenitors displaying lower calcification and chondroprogenitors displaying higher total GAG/DNA content compared to chondrocytes and 146− cells. Conclusion This unique progenitor-like population based on CD34−CD166+CD146+ sorting from chondrocytes exhibits efficient potential for cartilage repair and merits further evaluation for its therapeutic application.

An efficient method has been developed for the synthesis of new pyrano[3,2-c] and pyrano[3,2-a]carbazole derivatives via a three-component reaction of 4-hydroxycarbazole or 2-hydroxycarbazole, isocyanides, and dialkylacetylenedicarboxylates. Noteworthy features of this protocol include mild reaction conditions, catalyst-free, high atom-economy and high yields.

Introduction: Skin and soft tissue infections (SSTIs) constitute the diverse group of infections with varied clinical presentation and severity. SSTI’s are the most common infections treated in hospital today posing diagnostic and therapeutic challenges. Natural herbs have been widely used as a potential source of therapeutic substances all over the world. A study was conducted to determine the antimicrobial effect of some natural extracts on important SSTI causing pathogens. Materials and methods: In this study the antimicrobial potential of essential oil of Cinnamomum zeylanicum, Eugenia caryophyllata, oil of Cymbopogon citratus, Melaleuca alternifolia, Mentha piperita, Ocimum sanctum and extracts of Curcuma longa, Azadirachta indica and Cassia fistula were analysed against common skin and soft tissue infections (SSTIs) causing microorganisms. The organisms include methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), methicillin sensitive Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA), Streptococcus pyogenes, Streptococcus agalactiae, Cutibacterium acnes, E.coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Bacteroides fragilis. The antimicrobial assay was performed by agar punch well method with different concentrations of essential oil and extracts. High performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) was performed in order to identify the active constituents present in the extracts. Further a formulation was made, with the powdered extract (neem, turmeric, bark of golden shower) and cinnamon oil as the chief component to look for any probable synergetic activity. Results and discussion: In this study all the essential oils showed good antimicrobial activity than the crude extracts. Significant activity against the Gram negative organisms was exhibited by all the products used in the study. Cinnamon and Clove oil had an excellent activity against all the organism whereas tea tree, mint and Tulsi oil showed better results against the Gram positive organisms including acne vulgaris causing organisms. HPLC results emphasised the presence of eugenol and cinnamaldehyde in clove and cinnamon oil respectively. A significant zone of inhibition was observed from the formulation prepared. Hence we indicate that the natural products used in this study have therapeutic properties and therefore could be considered as an alternative medication in treatment of SSTIs.

Anti-dopaminergic or dopamine antagonists are preferably used as anti-psychotics, in schizophrenia, bipolar disorders and stimulant psychosis. They are also effective in many other gastrointestinal disorders including nausea and vomiting. Many herbal drugs like digoxin, quinine, morphine, are known for their therapeutic importance. The objective of this study was to use animal models to investigate the impact of Murraya koenigii L. leaves (MK) as an anti-dopaminergic.Pet ether extract of MK (PEMK) and alkaloids isolated from PEMK (AFMK) has shown potent antioxidant activity when tested against invitro antioxidant methods like free radical scavenging by DPPH method, total antioxidant activity by thiocyanate method and H2O2scavenging activity. Significant decreasein the dopaminergic activity was observed in validated animal models like haloperidol-induced catalepsy in mice, apomorphine-induced stereotypic behavior, foot shock-induced aggression and phenobarbitone-induced sleeping behavior. This may be attributed to the presence of carbazole alkaloids having antioxidant potential.

A library of benzazolyl pyrimidinyl carbamothioates were prepared by the reaction of benzazolyl carbonothioates with pyrimidinyl-2-amine in the presence of an ionic liquid- 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium hydroxide ([bmim]OH) under ultrasonication at a frequency of 35 kHz and tested for antimicrobial activity. Chloro- and nitro-substituted benzothiazolyl/benzimidazolyl pyrimidinyl carbamothioates displayed prominent antibacterial activity against Bacillus subtilis, while nitro-substituted benzothiazolyl/benzimidazolyl pyrimidinyl carbamothioates showed excellent antifungal activity against Aspergilus niger.

Purpose In-vitro models of cartilage regeneration based on pellet cultures have been widely used to evaluate chondrogenic potential of the cell of interest and predict probable in-vivo behavior. However, pellet processing is a major challenge during handling (due to small size and possible damage to structural contour following sectioning and staining). The present study aimed to utilize human articular cartilage derived chondroprogenitors to assess if agarose-encapsulation of pellets prior to paraffin processing enable easier handling without affecting tissue morphology, glycosaminoglycan staining and immunohistochemical analysis of Collagen type II protein. Methods Passage 3 chondroprogenitors (n = 3) were evaluated for MSC markers using flow cytometry and subjected to chondrogenic differentiation as pellets cultures. Post-differentiation, the pellets were subjected to either: a) paraffin embedding, b) agarose encapsulation followed by paraffin embedding or c) agarose encapsulation followed by cryosectioning. All sections were subjected to histological staining for glycosaminoglycan uptake: Alcian blue, Safranin O (Bern score) and Toluidine blue with immunohistochemical processing for collagen type II protein deposition. Results With respect to staining and structural integrity, comparable uptake was seen in both paraffin sections and agarose embedded sections while the latter exhibited notably uniform pellets with distinct marginal demarcation. Although plain paraffin and agarose encapsulated sections demonstrated equivalent staining as represented by comparable Bern scores, glycosaminoglycan uptake, and Collagen type II deposition, cryosections exhibited significantly poor staining properties. Conclusion Agarose encapsulation of differentiated pellets prior to routine paraffin embedding, eases handling difficulties whilst maintaining structural integrity with optimal staining outcomes.

Amino acids attenuate hypothermia during the perioperative period by increasing thermogenesis and stimulating energy consumption. Percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) induces profound hypothermia owing to the use of large volumes of irrigating fluids. The role of amino acids in this group of surgeries for hypothermia and shivering prevention has been evaluated in this study because there is no available literature of concern.This prospective randomised controlled trial was conducted in patients undergoing PCNL. Group A received amino acids at 60 mL h-1 an hour before surgery until the end of surgery. Group C received normal saline infusion. Perioperative nasopharyngeal temperature, haemodynamics, and postoperative shivering were recorded.Although there was no significant difference in temperature in the intraoperative period, postoperative decrease in the temperature was less in the amino acid group. In the postoperative period, 2 patients in the amino acid group and 11 patients in the control group experienced shivering.Intravenous administration of amino acids attenuated postoperative hypothermia and reduced shivering in patients undergoing PCNL without any adverse effects.

A variety of azolyl pyrimidinyl acetamides were prepared from azolyl glycinate and 4,6-diaryl/heteroarylpyrimidinyl-2-amines in the presence of DMAP under ultrasonication. Nitrophenyl, pyridinyl an...

Background: The thiocyanation of indoles is a direct way for carbon-sulfur bond formation to access 3-thiocyanato-indoles. 3-thiocyanato-indoles exhibit potent biological and pharmacological activities and also serve as building blocks to synthesize many biologically active sulfur-containing indole derivatives. Objective: The aim of this review is to highlight different approaches for the thiocyanation of indoles focusing on its scope and mechanism. Conclusion: In this review, we have summarized various methods for the thiocyanation of indoles. Selection of new methods for the preparation of 3-thiocyanato-indoles will be done. The mechanistic aspects and significance of the methods are also briefly discussed.

Carbon-doped ZnO nanoparticles were synthesized through different carbon precursors namely fullerene, glucose, and sucrose via hydrothermal method. The presence of carbon in the ZnO lattice was confirmed by the shifting of diffraction peaks and micro Raman characteristic peak of ZnO towards the lower values. XPS spectra confirms the Zn–O–C bond from the shifting of binding energy peaks towards the higher value for C-ZnO due to the variation in the electronegativity values of C and O. Based on the elemental analysis and photoluminescence studies, the deficiency of O and Zn in ZnO was confirmed while ZnO doped with carbon. The visible-light catalytic performance of the prepared photocatalysts for the mineralization of organic dye was studied. Carbon plays a significant contribution to enhance the photocatalytic activity and photostability of pristine ZnO till fourth cycle by overcoming the photocorrosion of ZnO because of its environmental and biological friendly nature. The trapping experiments were employed to demonstrate the degradation process and the possible photocatalysis mechanism.

Synthesis, characterization and evaluation of biological applications of nanoparticles is of immense importance in recent years in the field of Nanotechnology. Due to increasing demand of nanoparticle synthesis from medicinal plants now a days, in the present study, it is aimed to produce bio compatible, non-toxic, homogenous nanopowders by Ball milling, one of the top-down approaches from root, stem and leaf of Rauwolfia tetraphylla, an important medicinal plant of Apocynaceae. Rauwolfia tetraphylla L., an endangered species, is rich in various phytochemicals and often used as a substitute of Rauwolfia serpentina and therefore aimed to produce nanopowders from different parts of this plant. These biosynthesized nanopowders were characterized by UV-Visible Spectroscopy, Scanning Electron Microscopy, X-Ray Diffraction and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy. Further bioactive components of root, stem and leaf nanopowders were analysed by Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry(GC-MS), and different compounds were identified by comparison of GC-MS spectrum with library searches. Methanolic root, stem and leaf nanopowders were evaluated for antibacterial and antifungal activity. Antibacterial activity was assessed against human pathogenic bacteria Klebsiella pneumoniae, Salmonella typhi, Vibrio cholerae, Corynebacterium diphtheriae, Vibrio parahemolyticus. Human pathogenic fungi Aspergillus fumigatus, Candida albicans, Mucor hiemalis were selected for evaluating antifungal activity. The present study confirms the good antibacterial and antifungal activity of Rauwolfia tetraphylla synthesized nanopowders. As GC-MS analysis revealed different phytoconstituents, other pharmacological activities need to be evaluated.

Background: Betti base derivatives were employed as chiral ligands or as chiral auxiliaries in asymmetric transformations. In particular, N-alkyl Betti base derivatives are gaining importance as excellent ligands in asymmetric reactions. However, no appropriate method exists for regioselective N-alkylation of Betti base. Therefore, there is an urgent need to develop a new protocol for the regioselective N-alkylation of chiral Betti-base. Methods: An efficient method has been developed for one-pot synthesis of chiral N-alkyl Bettibase ligands from (S)-(+)-Betti base, arylglyoxals and cyclic 1,3-C,N-binucleophiles under catalyst- free conditions. Results: The chiral N-alkyl Betti-base ligands were obtained in good yields with excellent enantioselectivities. This method is rapid, clean and does not require a catalyst or chromatographic purification. Conclusion: We have developed an efficient one-pot three component strategy for the synthesis of new chiral N-alkyl Betti-base ligands from (S)-(+)-Betti base, arylglyoxals and cyclic 1,3-C,Nbinucleophiles in the absence of a catalyst.

Background Polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) may influence immune development. We examined the association of PUFAs in human milk with food sensitization and atopic dermatitis among breastfed infants. Methods In a selected subgroup of 1109 mother-infant dyads from the CHILD Cohort Study, human milk was analyzed by gas-liquid chromatography to quantify PUFAs including arachidonic acid (ARA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). At 1 year of age, food sensitization was determined by skin-prick testing for egg, peanut, cow's milk, and soybean, and atopic dermatitis was diagnosed by pediatricians. Logistic regression analyses controlled for breastfeeding exclusivity, family history of atopy, and other potential confounders. Results Overall, 184 infants (17%) were sensitized to one or more food allergens and 160 (14%) had atopic dermatitis. Sex-specific associations were observed between these conditions and milk PUFAs. Girls receiving human milk with lower proportions of DHA had lower odds of food sensitization (aOR 0.35; 95% CI 0.12, 0.99 for lowest vs highest quintile), and a clear dose-dependent association was observed for the ARA/DHA ratio (aOR 2.98; 95% CI 1.10, 8.06 for lowest vs highest quintile). These associations were not seen in boys. Similar sex-specific tendencies were observed for atopic dermatitis. Conclusions Human milk PUFA proportions and their ratios are associated with infant atopic conditions in a sex-specific manner. In female infants, a higher ratio of ARA/DHA may reduce the risk of food sensitization and atopic dermatitis. Further research is needed to determine the underlying mechanisms and clinical relevance of this sex-specific association.

A standardized data workflow is described for large-scale serum metabolomic studies using multisegment injection-capillary electrophoresis-mass spectrometry. Multiplexed separations increase throughput ( 75%) from a multi-ethnic cohort of pregnant women (n = 1,004). We outline a validated protocol implemented in four batches over a 7-month period that includes details on preventive maintenance, sample workup, data preprocessing and metabolite authentication. We achieve stringent quality control (QC) and robust batch correction of long-term signal drift with good mutual agreement for a wide range of metabolites, including serum glucose as compared to a clinical chemistry analyzer (mean bias = 11%, n = 668). Control charts for a recovery standard (mean CV = 12%, n = 2,412) and serum metabolites in QC samples (median CV = 13%, n = 202) demonstrate acceptable intermediate precision with a median intraclass coefficient of 0.87. We also report reference intervals for 53 serum metabolites from a diverse population of women in their second trimester of pregnancy. A standardized protocol and data workflow for high-throughput analysis of the maternal serum metabolome is outlined. It uses multisegment injection–capillary electrophoresis–mass spectrometry and is applied to a multi-ethnic cohort of pregnant women.

The new threats to human health from heavy metals are associated with exposure to some selected metals. The study identifies and assessment of the accumulation and levels of five heavy metals (Cd, Cr, Ni, Pb and Zn) in food fish Channa striata of Krishna river, collected from three stations during four seasons of the year i.e June,2019- May2020. The range of metal concentrations recorded were: Cd 1.12-3.35, Cr 1.41-2.89, Ni 1.51 -3.72,Pb 3.29- 7.69 and Zn 13.8 – 29.1 in case of muscle and in case of liver goes to Cd 2.21 – 4.43, Cr 1.74- 3.68, Ni 1.96-3.71, Pb 3.52- 8.09 and Zn 14.5 – 32.6. The spatial variation in concentrations and comparison among seasons indicated that there are significant differences in the concentrations of metals in the muscle and liver for all seasons. The mean metal concentrations varied temporally; metal masses were relatively constant with fluctuations in metal concentrations related to fluctuations in metal body burdens. The metal contamination had significantly higher in both the tissues of Zn and Pb concentrations. According to the guideline values, the concentrations of metals studied do not pose any threat to the health of fish consumers.

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is characterized by multiple alterations in cytokine expression and is a risk factor for colon cancer. The Omega class glutathione transferase GSTO1-1 regulates the release of the pro-inflammatory cytokines interleukin 1β (IL-1β) and interleukin 18 (IL-18) by deglutathionylating NEK7 in the NLRP3 inflammasome. When treated with azoxymethane and dextran sodium sulphate (AOM/DSS) as a model of IBD, Gsto1−/− mice were highly sensitive to colitis and showed a significant increase in the size and number of colon tumours compared with wild-type (WT) mice. Gsto1−/− mice treated with AOM/DSS had significantly lower serum IL-1β and IL-18 levels as well as significantly decreased interferon (IFN)-γ, decreased pSTAT1 and increased pSTAT3 levels in the distal colon compared with similarly treated WT mice. Histologically, AOM/DSS treated Gsto1−/− mice showed increased active chronic inflammation with macrophage infiltration, epithelial dysplasia and invasive adenocarcinoma compared with AOM/DSS treated WT mice. Thus, this study shows that GSTO1-1 regulates IL-1β and IL-18 activation and protects against colorectal cancer formation in the AOM/DSS model of IBD. The data suggest that while GSTO1-1 is a new target for the regulation of the NLRP3 inflammasome-associated cytokines IL-1β and IL-18 by small molecule inhibitors, there is a possibility that anti-inflammatory drugs targeting these cytokines may potentiate colon cancer in some situations.

Heterosis is a phenomenon wherein F1 hybrid often displays phenotypic superiority and surpasses its parents in terms of growth and agronomic traits. Investigations on the physiological and biochemical properties of the heterotic F1 hybrid are important to uncover the mechanisms underlying heterosis in plants. In the present study, the photosynthetic capacity of a heterotic F1 hybrid of Zea mays L. (DHM 117) that exhibited a higher growth rate and increased biomass was compared with its parental inbreds at vegetative and reproductive stages in the field during 2017 and 2018. The net photosynthetic rate (Pn), stomatal conductance (gs), transpiration rate (E) as well as foliar carbohydrates were higher in F1 hybrid than parental inbreds at vegetative and reproductive stages. An increase in total chlorophyll content along with better chlorophyll a fluorescence characteristics including effective quantum yield of photosystem II (ΔF/Fm'), maximum quantum yield of PSII (Fv/Fm), photochemical quenching (qp) and decreased non-photochemical quenching (NPQ) was observed in F1 hybrid than the parental inbreds. Further, the expression of potential genes related to C4 photosynthesis was considerably upregulated in F1 hybrid than the parental inbreds during vegetative and reproductive stages. Moreover, the F1 hybrid exhibited distinct heterosis in yield with 63% and 62% increase relative to parental inbreds during 2017 and 2018. We conclude that improved photosynthetic efficiency associated with increased foliar carbohydrates could have contributed to higher growth rate, biomass and yield in the F1 hybrid.

Integration Host Factor (IHF) is a heterodimeric site-specific nucleoid-associated protein (NAP), well known for its DNA bending ability. Although the IHF induced bending states of DNA have been captured by both X-ray Crystallography and Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM), the range of flexibility and degree of heterogeneity in terms of quantitative analysis of the nucleoprotein complex has largely remained unexplored. Binding of IHF leads to introduction of two kinks in the dsDNA that allowed us to come up with a quadrilateral model. The findings have further been extended by calculating the angles of flexibility, that gives the idea of the degree of dynamicity of the nucleoprotein complex. We have monitored and compared the trajectories of the conformational dynamics of a dsDNA upon binding of wild-type (wt) and single-chain (sc) IHF at millisecond resolution through single-molecule FRET (smFRET). Our findings reveal that the nucleoprotein complex exists in a ‘Slacked-Dynamic’ state throughout the observation window where many of them have switched between multiple ‘Wobbling States’ in the course of attainment of packaged form. This study opens up an opportunity to improve the understanding of the functions of other nucleoid-associated proteins (NAPs) by complementing the previous detailed atomic-level structural analysis, which eventually will allow accessibility towards a better hypothesis.

Four 10-undecenoic acid-based Schiff bases were synthesized by condensation of methyl 11-(2-aminoethylthio) undecanoate with various aromatic aldehydes. Synthesized compounds were characterized by spectral techniques and evaluated for their tribological and antioxidant performances in biolubricant base oil, namely epoxy 2-ethyl hexyl esters of karanja fatty acids. The tribological test results indicate that all the synthesized thioethers containing Schiff bases act as good antiwear and extreme pressure additives. A significant reduction in wear scar diameter was observed at a very low concentration (0.6 wt%), whereas, at 1 wt% concentration, weld point enhancement observed from 160 to 230 kg. Quantum chemical calculations based on density functional theory for the interactions of Schiff bases with surfaces correlated with experimental wear data. Overall, the dimethoxy-substituted phenyl ring containing Schiff base was more effective in enhancing the antiwear and extreme pressure performance of base oil, whereas dihydroxy-substituted phenyl ring containing Schiff base exhibited good antioxidant property.

This article summarises the design of one dimensional Titanium dioxide (TiO2) nanorod array and its compatibility as Electron Transport Medium (ETM) for Solar Cell Application. The approach followed for the growth of the one-dimensional nanostructures was template-free, one-step hydrothermal synthesis which is convenient for commercialization. A series of microscopic characterisation such as XRD, SEM and EDAX were carried out to analyse the structure and morphology of the prepared TiO2 array. The optical properties were determined using UV-DRS analysis. Field dependent dark and photoconductivity studies showed positive response confirming the effective photo conducting nature of the as-prepared samples. As a result, all these features validate the usage of one dimensional titanium dioxide array as efficient ETM in the fabrication of Solid State solar cells.

For structural applications, Concrete Filled Steel Tubes (CFST) proved as efficient building material. Further study on composite filled tubes to increase strength to weight ratio is evident to improve material efficiency and reduce load on structure. In the recent years, investigations on impact resistance and energy absorption of foam filled thin walled Aluminium and Steel composite tubes have gained importance for mechanical and aerospace applications and also as crash barriers to improve its dynamic characteristics. These are made by metal tube envelopes filled with Polyurethane foam infill material. Present study is carried out to understand the strength and behaviour of PU Foam Filled Tubes for structural applications. This paper presents experimental work on Quasi Static Axial Compression Tests on Empty and PU Foam filled Circular Aluminium and Light Gauge Square Steel Tubes. For Aluminium Tubes, D/t of 40.20 and 30.15 and L/D of 3.32 and for Steel Tubes, b/t of 125, 100 and 83.33 and L/b of 2, 3 and 4 were considered. High density PU foam (of density 150 kg/m3) alone, Empty tubes and Polyurethane foam-filled tubes are tested for quasi-static axial compression experimentally and validated the results with numerical simulation using ABAQUS 6.14–3 software. The mean crushing loads of hollow and polyurethane foam-filled circular Aluminium and Square Steel tubes were calculated from FEM and experimental results. The experimental and numerical values are in agreement. This study reveals that due to composite action between tube and foam, the resistance to buckling has improved significantly when compared to empty tubes even for high L/D & L/b ratios.

A new class of phenylbenzo[4,5]thiazolo[3,2-a]pyrano[2,3-d]pyrimidin-5-one and pyrano[ 2,3-d]thiazolo[3,2-a]pyrimidine-5-one derivatives have been synthesized via one-pot threecomponent reaction of 2-hydroxy-4H-benzo[4,5]thiazolo[3,2-a]pyrimidin-4-one and 7-hydroxy-5Hthiazolo[ 3,2-a]pyrimidin-5-one with various aromatic aldehydes and (E)-N-methyl-1-(methylthio)-2- nitroethenamine under microwave irradiation. This transformation involves the formation of thiazole or benzothiazole fused pyranopyrimidinone ring by the formation of two C-C bonds and one C-O bond in a single synthetic operation. This rapid one-pot reaction does not require a catalyst, it is solvent-free, avoids chromatographic purification, and provides good yields. The synthesized compounds were evaluated for their antiproliferative activity against four cancer cell lines, namely DU 145 (prostate cancer), MDA-MB-231 (breast cancer), Hela (Human cervical cancer), HT-29 (Human colon cancer) and HEK293 (human embryonic kidney cells). The results demonstrated that synthesized compounds were selective in its cytotoxicity to cancer cells compared to normal HEK293 cells. Compound 12h exhibited the most potent antiproliferative activity against the tested cell lines, while other test compounds showed weak or moderate antiproliferative activity, among them 12d, 12e and 14d displayed showed IC50 values in the low micromolar range. Molecular docking studies revealed that these active heterocyclic molecules bind selectively in the colchicine binding site of tubulin polymer.

Synthesis of linearly fused aromatic systems using a glycal-based diene with an aryne is a long-standing topic of interest in glycal chemistry. We have examined the mechanistic pathways for the transformation of substituted glycals to chiral fused aromatic cores via Diels–Alder (DA) reaction using the SMDACN-M06-2X/6-31G(d) level of theory. The DA reactions of E (1a) and Z (1a′) forms of C-2 alkenyl glycal and an aryl glycal (1b) as a diene were examined with a benzyne intermediate generated as a dienophile. The computational results reveal that 1a and 1b can only be transformed into the fused aromatic cores by the base-catalyzed reaction because a [1,5] sigmatropic hydrogen shift is not feasible. The activation free energy barrier for the base-catalyzed proton abstraction process is 4.2 kcal mol−1 and there is almost no barrier for stereoisomeric 1a DA-complexes. The activation free energy barrier values for stereoisomeric 1b DA-complexes for the base-catalyzed proton abstraction process are 10.8 and 12.4 kcal mol−1. The appropriate orientation of glycal-ring-oxygen and hydrogen at the 5th position of Z (1a′) forms of C-2 alkenyl glycal facilitates the [1,5] sigmatropic hydrogen shift; however, the base-catalyzed reaction is energetically more favored than the former case. The rate-determining step for 1a and 1a′ is the ring-opening step (18.2 and 19.5 kcal mol−1 for the S-stereoisomer), whereas the DA adduct formation step is the rate-determining step for 1b (16.1 kcal mol−1 for the S-stereoisomer). The structural analysis reveals the formation of the preferred S-stereoisomer over the R-stereoisomer with the respective dienes.

A pot culture experiment was conducted at glass house of Department of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry, College of Agriculture, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad. The aim of the present experiment was to study the influence of crop cover and stage of crop growth on soil L- glutaminase activity in an Alfisol and Vertisol. The experiment was under taken with six crops viz., two cereals (Rice, Maize), two legumes (Groundnut, Greengram), one oilseed (Sunflower) and one vegetable (Bhendi) crop. The experiment was conducted in Completely Randomized Block design with three replications along with the uncropped control. The results obtained with regard to the effect of these crops on soil L-glutaminase activity showed that there was an increase in enzyme activity with age of the crop upto 60 DAS and it varied with crops grown. The increased enzyme activity (μg of NH4+ released g-1 soil 4h-1) varied from 5.56 to 12.17 for groundnut, 5.58 to 11.25 for greengram, 5.43 to 10.87 for sunflower, 5.48 to 8.61 for rice, 5.39 to 8.23 maize and 5.31 to 7.92 for bhendi in Vertisol. In Alfisol the L-glutaminase activity (μg of NH4+ released g-1 soil 4h-1) under different crop cover found to vary from 6.72 to 13.59 (groundnut), 6.68 to 12.71 (greengram), 6.63 to 11.96 (sunflower), 6.61 to 10.25 (rice), 6.59 to 9.47 (maize), 6.62 to 9.26 (bhendi). A close perusal of the data indicates that the L-glutaminase activity followed the sequence groundnut > greengram > sunflower > rice > maize > bhendi, in both Alfisol and Vertisol.

The paper emphasizes the removal ofChromium from tanning industryeffluent using adsorption as a cost effective option. The essential source of contamination identified from variable amounts of liquid discharges was Chromium (Cr+6). A column study was carried out using Shrimp shell waste (SSW) as an adsorbent in the removal of Cr+6 ion from synthetic solutions. Operational factors such as the size of adsorbent, bed depthand compared their adsorption capacities thereof. For a given size, the adsorption capacity increased by a reduction in the amount of Chromium. TheCr+6removal based on adsorbent size was in the order: 150 microns> 300 microns> 600 microns.The experimental data was optimized and modelled using Response Surface method, and a 23 factorial Central composite design (CCD) was applied, and the data was analyzed for ANOVA. A P-Value

In medicine and many other fields, the use of silver nanoparticles is inevitable. The negative impacts of silver accumulated silver nanoparticles on the environment and organisms need to be taken into consideration. The studies on the effect of silver nanoparticles on bio-indicators such as marine invertebrates pave the way to regulate the usage of silver nanoparticles. In the present study, the effect of silver nanoparticles on the hepatopancreas of Indian mud crab, Scylla Serrata was studied. A 20ppm of silver nanoparticles was exposed to S. Serrata for ten days period. The morphological changes, the biochemical markers from hepatopancreas, histological analysis for hepatopancreas, gills and reproductive organs were examined. On the 2nd day exposure of silver nanoparticles showed the increased value of anti-oxidants and no morphological changes. But the 10th-day exposure shows the significantly reduced level of biochemical markers in the hepatopancreas and morphological changes were observed. The apoptotic cells and necrotic cells were recorded in hepatopancreas. Moreover, the cell architecture of gill tissues and reproductive tissues were observed. The silver nanoparticles in the concentration of 20ppm caused significant changes in the hepatopancreas of S. Serrata for ten days of exposure. The mechanism of silver nanoparticles needs to be studied to understand and protect models from the nanoparticles.

Tumor angiogenesis is the main target in cancer drug development. Discovery of antiangiogenic agents targeting different mechanisms of action is the major area of research to control tumor growth and metastasis. Zebrafish (in the embryo-larvae stage) acts as an essential preclinical efficacy-toxicity model for antiangiogenic drug discovery. We aimed to develop a carcinogen-induced model of proangiogenesis in zebrafish embryo-larvae using the carcinogens lindane and benzo[a]pyrene. Zebrafish were randomly selected for mating. Postspawning, healthy embryos were staged, dispensed in reverse-osmosis water in a 12-well plate, and incubated at 28.5 °C, wherein 24 h postfertilization they were exposed to sublethal concentrations of the carcinogens. Three days postexposure, embryos were stained with alkaline phosphatase, and the angiogenic basket was imaged using a bright-field microscope. The number of subintestinal vessels, their length from somite to the basket, and other proangiogenic parameters were measured and analyzed. The effective concentrations causing a 30% increase in subintestinal vessels for benzo[a]pyrene and lindane were 2.69 and 2.24 µM, respectively, thus proving their proangiogenic potency. The carcinogen-induced model of proangiogenesis in zebrafish embryo-larvae can be used as an effective high-throughput screening tool to assess the proangiogenic potential of carcinogenic compounds and to screen antiangiogenic drugs for better therapeutic intervention. Environ Toxicol Chem 2021;40:447-453.© 2020 SETAC.