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International audience; Colchicine, the main active alkaloid from Colchicum autumnale L., is a potent tubulin binder and represents an interesting lead structure for the development of potential anticancer chemotherapeutics. We report on the synthesis and investigation of potentially reactive colchicinoids and their surprising biological activities. In particular, the previously undescribed colchicinoid PT-100, a Bring contracted 6-exomethylene colchicinoid, exhibits extraordinarily high antiproliferative and apoptosis-inducing effects on various types of cancer cell lines like acute lymphoblastic leukemia (Nalm6), acute myeloid leukemia (HL-60), Burkitt-like lymphoma (BJAB), human melanoma (MelHO), and human breast adenocarcinoma (MCF7) cells at low nanomolar concentrations. Apoptosis induction proved to be especially high in multidrug-resistant Nalm6derived cancer cell lines, while healthy human leukocytes and hepatocytes were not affected by the concentration range studied. Furthermore, caspase-independent initiation of apoptosis via an intrinsic pathway was observed. PT-100 also shows strong synergistic effects in combination with vincristine on BJAB and Nalm6 cells. Cocrystallization of PT-100 with tubulin dimers revealed its (noncovalent) binding to the colchicine-binding site of β-tubulin at the interface to the α-subunit. A pronounced effect of PT-100 on the cytoskeleton morphology was shown by fluorescence microscopy. While the reactivity of PT-100 as a weak Michael acceptor toward thiols was chemically proven, it remains unclear whether this contributes to the remarkable biological properties of this unusual colchicinoid.

Background: To evaluate the chemopreventive potential of boldine against diethylnitrosamine (DEN) induced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in wistar albino rats. Objective: Boldine is an alkaloid isolated from Peumus boldus. The primary active constituents of boldine exhibited several potential medicinal properties. The present study was evaluated to explore the chemopreventive agent of boldine on anti-proliferative efficacy against diethylnitrosamine (DEN) induced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in wistar albino rats. Methods: The effect of boldine on cellular proliferative markers, i.e., PCNA and Ki67on hepatocellular carcinoma rats was determined by immuno expression study. Liver marker enzymes, tumor biomarker, oxidative stress markers, antioxidant status, and xenobiotic phase I and II enzymes in HCC rats were analyzed. Moreover, cell cycle proteins, i.e., p21Cip1/Kip1, p27 Cip1/Kip1, Cyclin D1, CDK 4, Cyclin E1, and CDK 2 were investigated using immuno expression analysis. Results: Treatment of boldine protected the liver against reactive oxygen species such as hydrogen peroxide, superoxide, protein carbonyl, and lipid peroxide during hepatocarcinogenesis by boosted antioxidants-superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT). Boldine caused a substantial enhanced detoxification process by moderating phase I and II xenobiotic-metabolizing enzymes. Besides, the study found that boldine significantly inhibited the cellular proliferative markers like PCNA and Ki67 and regulated the specific cell cycle-associated proteins by up-regulated expression of p21Cip1/Kip1and p27 Cip1/Kip1 and down-regulated expression of Cyclin D1, CDK 4, Cyclin E1, and CDK 2. Conclusion: Our data manifests the anti-proliferative effect of boldine, which negatively modulates cellular proliferation and regulates cell cycle by protecting the cell from reactive oxygen species (ROS), suggesting that boldine establish it as a chemopreventive agent in diethylnitrosamine-induced hepatocarcinogenesis in rats.

Rotaviruses by virtue of its segmented genome generate numerous genotypes. G1P[8] is the most common genotype reported globally. We intend to identify the evolutionary differences among G1P[8] strains from the study with vaccine strains. Stool samples collected from children

The article confers a scalable manufacturing process of Fenspiride HCl. 4-aminomethyl-1-(2-phenylethyl)-piperidin-4-ol is the main building block in Fenspiride HCl synthesis. The reported reagents for 4-aminomethyl-1-(2-phenylethyl)-piperidin-4-ol synthesis are costly, explosive, highly toxic, produce hazardous waste, and also need to be handled with most care. The paper introduces aqueous ammonia as an alternate reagent in Fenspiride HCl and used in 4-aminomethyl-1-(2-phenylethyl)-piperidin-4-ol synthesis. The new green chemistry aspect makes the process environment-friendly and cheaper. It also eliminates toxic, sensitive, and hazardous reagents and makes the process safe on uncomplicated on bulk scale production. The high pure Fenspiride HCl is obtained by following this process and meets the ICH limits with good yield.

Para-phenylenediamine (PPD) is one of the most used chemicals in oxidative hair dyes. However, its use has been associated with adverse effects on health, including contact dermatitis and other systemic toxicities. Novel PPD derivatives have been proposed as a safer replacement for PPD. This can be achieved if these molecules minimally permeate the skin and/or are easily metabolised by enzymes in the skin (e.g., N-acetyltransferase-1 (NAT-1)) into innocuous compounds before gaining systemic entry. This study investigated the detoxification pathway mediated by NAT-1 enzymes on 6 synthesized PPD analogues (namely, P1-P6) with different chemical properties, to study the role of functional groups on detoxification mechanisms in HaCaT skin cells. These compounds were carefully designed with different chemical properties (whereby the ortho position of PPD was substituted by nucleophile and electrophile groups to promote N-acetylation reactions, metabolism and clearance). Compounds P2-P4 N-acetylated at 54-49 nmol/mg/min, which is 1.6 times higher than N-acetylation of PPD, upregulated NAT-1 activity from 8-7% at 50 μM to 22-11% at 100 μM and showed 4 times higher rate of elimination (k equal to 0.141 ± 0.016-0.124 ± 0.01 h-1) and 3 times faster rate of clearance (0.172 ± 0.007-0.158 ± 0.005 h-1mgprotein-1) than PPD (0.0316 ± 0.0019 h-1, 0.0576 ± 0.003 h-1mg protein-1, respectively). The data suggest that nucleophile substituted compounds detoxify at a faster rate than PPD. Our metabolic and detoxification mechanistic studies revealed significantly higher rates of N-acetylation, NAT-1 activity and higher detoxification of P2-P4 in keratinocytes, suggesting the importance of nucleophilic groups at the ortho position in PPD to reduce toxicity of aniline-based dyes on human skin cells.

An improved and simplified process of vitamin K1 preparation. The article confers the new reagent BF3. Acetic acid complex as a condensation reagent for phytol with compound III in vitamin K1 synthesis, which eludes the use of ethereal reagent and make the process hazard free. Further innovation presents base catalyzed synthesis of vitamin K1 which is an oxidative product of compound IV. Sodium methoxide base is used in synthesis which eliminates use of metal oxidant, costly and hazardous reagent. The new approach ensures the non-generation of epoxide impurity (V) which tends to form during Ag2O catalyzed synthesis. Finally, article also focused on formation and conformation of 7R and 11R diastereomeric centers and ensure the formation of vitamin k1 with desired stereochemistry also article submit proof of concept and supporting literature survey for desired stereochemistry.

Background: Liver is the largest gland, accounts for approximately 2.5% of total body weight and also liver called as the metabolic “engine-room of the body.” Liver plays role in both metabolism as well as biochemical transformation. Therefore, it is vital to maintain a healthy liver for overall health and well-being. However, liver is continuously exposed to exogenous substances such as toxins, drugs, and alcohol which can ultimately lead to various liver disorders. Liver diseases today are one of the most fatal diseases globally. Aims and Objectives: The aim of the present study was to evaluate lipid peroxidation (LPO) and lipid profile levels of Vitamin D and combination with Liv-52 on carbon tetrachloride induced liver disease in rats. Materials and Methods: Thirty-six adult male Albino Wistar rats weighing 150–200 g were used in this study. Liver disease was induced in rats by administration of Carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) intraperitoneally at the dose of 1 mL mixed with 50% of olive oil twice a week for 5 weeks, 3 days interval between each dose, after confirmation of liver disease treated with Vitamin D and Liv-52 for 5 weeks. Results: The levels of LPO were significantly decreased in Vitamin D and Liv-52 treated animals when compared with CCl4 induced animals. Total cholesterol, free cholesterol, phospholipids, and triglycerides (TGs) levels were significantly reduced when compared with CCl4 induced rats. However, the levels of ester cholesterol and free fatty acids (FFAs) were significantly increased in Vitamin D and Liv-52 treated animals when compared with CCl4 induced animals. Conclusion: Vitamin D and Liv-52 effectively reduced the LPO levels. Treatment with Vitamin D and Liv-52, the levels of total and free cholesterol, phospholipids, and TGs were significantly reduced and treatment with both combinations highly reduced all these levels when compared with CCl4 induced animals. And treatment with Vitamin D and Liv-52, the ester cholesterol and FFAs levels were increased.

Magnetic nanoparticles are one of the most promising candidates to achieve localization of heat in the region of cancerous tissue. Modified co-precipitation technique is carried out to synthesize GdxFe3-xO4 (where, x = 0.00 (IO), 0.04 (IOG02), 0.08 (IOG04), 0.12 (IOG06), 0.16 (IOG08), 0.20 (IOG10). A systematic characterization was performed to study the structural, morphological, elemental, and magnetic properties of the synthesized nanoparticles using X-Ray diffraction (XRD), Field emission scanning microscopy (FESEM), Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy (EDS), Vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM) respectively. The structural analysis revealed the single-phase crystalline nature of magnetite, with the co-existence of secondary phase hematite and goethite beyond x ≥ 0.16. The morphological analysis implied an increase in particle size due to Gd substitution with particle sizes ranging from 7 to 19 nm. Magnetic measurements revealed a magnetic transformation from superparamagnetic nature with magnetic coercivity and remanence to weak ferromagnetic nature upon an increase in the gadolinium content of magnetite. Further, hyperthermia studies showed that with increasing gadolinium concentration, the heating rate, specific absorption rate, and the intrinsic loss power of gadolinium substituted magnetites were increased. The increased specific absorption rate of gadolinium substituted magnetites with low HF factors makes them ideal for clinical hyperthermia applications.

Coronavirus with intact infectivity attached to PPE surfaces pose significant threat to the spread of COVID-19. We tested the hypothesis that an electroceutical fabric, generating weak potential difference of 0.5 V, disrupts the infectivity of coronavirus upon contact by destabilizing the electrokinetic properties of the virion. Porcine respiratory coronavirus AR310 particles (105) were placed in direct contact with the fabric for 1 or 5 min. Following one minute of contact, zeta potential of the porcine coronavirus was significantly lowered indicating destabilization of its electrokinetic properties. Size-distribution plot showed appearance of aggregation of the virus. Testing of the cytopathic effects of the virus showed eradication of infectivity as quantitatively assessed by PI-calcein and MTT cell viability tests. This work provides the rationale to consider the studied electroceutical fabric, or other materials with comparable property, as material of choice for the development of PPE in the fight against COVID-19.

Epoxy/conducting filler nanocomposites with high dielectric performance have emanated as a promising material in electronic and electrical industry. In this work, a facile and low-cost method, that is, thermal reduction at 400°C was adopted for the preparation of reduced graphene oxide (rGO) from graphene oxide (GO). The rGO was characterized by X-ray diffraction analysis, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, Field emission scanning electron microscopy and Transmission electron microscopy. Epoxy nanocomposite presented a dielectric permittivity of 35 at 1.8 vol.% loading of rGO (Ep/G-1.8) at 103 Hz, which was 5 times higher than neat epoxy and with a low dielectric loss. With the addition of 0.3 vol.% of rGO (Ep/G-0.3), the mechanical properties such as tensile strength, Young’s modulus and impact strength were enhanced by 34%, 56% and 54%, respectively. Dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) revealed that in comparison to epoxy, there was a tremendous enhancement of storage modulus (55%) and the glass transition temperature (Tg) exhibited a remarkable shift of 39°C towards higher temperature for Ep/G-0.3. Cross-link density and coefficient of effectiveness (C-factor) estimated from the storage modulus improved significantlyfor Ep/G-0.3. Theoretical modelling was done on the viscoelastic properties of the composites. SEM studies indicated the uniform dispersion of rGO throughout in the epoxy matrix. Thermogravimetric analysis revealed that inclusion of rGO improved the thermal stability of epoxy nanocomposites.

An imidazole based Schiff base (2-[(1H-imidazole-2-ylmethylene)-amino]-4-methyl-phenol) (IMP), with an imine unit, has been designed and characterized by various standard methods. The evaluation of the probe as a fluorogenic sensor for Zn2+ and a chromogenic sensor for Co2+ has been rationalized in terms of the PET mechanism. In the presence of Zn2+, a light yellow colored solution of IMP with maximum absorption of 364 nm becomes bright yellow with maximum absorption of 410 nm and a measurable fluorescent signal at 612 nm with bathochromic enhancement. The sensitivity of the fluorescent based assay (6.78 × 10-9 M) for Zn2+ is far below the limit in the World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines for drinking water (7.6 × 10-5 M) and therefore it is capable of being a practical system for the monitoring of Zn2+ concentrations in aqueous samples. Moreover, IMP showed a highly selective colorimetric response to Co2+ by displayed an obvious pink color upon addition of metal solution immediately without any interference from other ions. These results provide a new approach for selectively recognizing the two most important trace elements in the human body simultaneously, for Zn2+ by emission spectra and Co2+ by the naked eye.

Arsenic is one of the heavy metals found in the environment and it is widely spread on the earth. This is due to the industrial and agricultural sectors and acts as an anthropogenic substance. This...

Commercially viable manufacturing process for Flecainide Acetate (I) conforming to regulatory specification and cost effective process is reported. Specifically, an improved process for the preparation of Flecainide Acetate allows isolation of anhydrous hydrochloride salt of Compound III, which facilitates the reduction of the pyridine ring with the only catalytic amount of platinum on carbon within 2 hours Therefore, simplifies the synthesis and isolation of Flecainide acetate on a commercial scale to a considerable extent.

A simple, rapid, selective, and reproducible Gas chromatographic mass spectrometry (GC-MS) method has been developed and validated for the estimation of Diethyl Phosphite content in Foscarnet Sodium USP Drug substance. The drugs were estimated using HP-5, Length-30 M, Internal diameter 0.32 mm; Film thickness 1 μ at a total flow rate of 11.9 ml/min, and column flow of 1.49 ml/min was used for the separation. Flow control mode was pressure. Column oven temperature 70°C and injector temperature 220°C. Oven program modified for proper elution of peak. The linearity range used was 0.025-0.120µg/ml and (Rt) was 6.7 min. The correlation coefficient values were found to be 0.997. Precession studies showed % RSD values less than 15.0% for all the selected concentrations. The percentage recovery of Diethyl phosphite from LOQ to 150% was found in range of 100.7 -116.7%. The content results of Phophite content were within the limits of less than 0.12 ppm. The method was validated as per the International Conference on Harmonization (ICH) guidelines. The developed method was successfully used for the quantitative analysis of commercially available dosage forms.

This study enhances the durability of mortar blends against the combination of chloride and sulfate attack by replacing the certain quantity of Portland cement with microsilica and colloidal nanosilica. Coastal surroundings have severe chloride and sulfate ion precipitation. To establish concrete durability under these environments it is essential to incorporate both ions. Investigation of microsilica and colloidal nanosilica in concrete has been acknowledged in recent times. Moreover, the role of durability mortar combined with microsilica and colloidal nanosilica (CNS) have also been limited. A preliminary tool is conducted to establish five different chlorides and sulfate corrosive solutions to evaluate various replacement percentages of microsilica and colloidal nanosilica content in cement. In binary and ternary solutions, the necessary properties such as mechanical, electrical, change in mass, expansion, permeability and surface morphology were studied. Results revealed that colloidal nanosilica as a partial substitution improved mortar property, enhanced mortar durability and less deterioration in ordinary Portland cement (OPC) specimens and the chloride penetration developed by inserting sulfate ions at an early immersion age.

The current work aimed to investigate the degradation of the triclocarban (TCC) in aqueous solution using a modified zeolite/TiO2 composite (MZTC) synthesized by applying the electrochemical anodization (ECA). The synthesis process was conducted at different voltages (10, 40, and 60) V in 1 h and using electrophoresis deposition (EPD) in doping zeolite. The MZTC was covered with the array ordered, smooth and optimum elongated nanotubes with 5.1 μm of the length, 120.3 nm of the inner diameter 14.5 nm of the wall thickness with pure titanium and crystalline titania as determined by FESEM/EDS, and XRD. The kinetic study by following Langmuir-Hinshelwood(L-H) model and pseudo first order, the significant constant rate was obtained at pH 11 which was 0.079 ppm/min, 0.75 cm2 of MZTC catalyst loading size achieved 0.076 ppm/min and 5 ppm of TCC initial concentration reached 0.162 ppm/min. The high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analysis for mechanism study of TCC photocatalytic degradation revealed eleven intermediate products after the whole process of photocatalysis. In regard of toxicology assessment by the bacteria which is Photobacterium phosphoreum, the obtained concentration of TCC at minute 60 was less satisfied with remained 0.36 ppm of TCC was detected indicates that the concentration was above allowable level. Where the allowable level of TCC in stream is 0.1 ppm.

The investigation on the effect of adding silane modified chopped E-glass fibre and Aluminium metal wire-mesh into nano silica toughened nylon 6-6 thermoplastic composites on mechanical, drop load impact, fatigue and tribological behaviour is studied in this paper. The primary aim of this research work is to develop a hybrid Nylon 6-6 nanocomposites having high stiffness, toughness and wear resistance. The chopped glass fibre and Al wire-mesh was surface treated with the help of 3-Aminopropyletrimethoxylane (silane) and acid etching. The tensile results revealed that additions of glass fibre and Al mesh into nano - silica toughened nylon 6-6 composite gives improved tensile and flexural strength. Similarly, the Izod impact strength of Al-mesh reinforced nano silica (1vol.%) toughened nylon 6-6 gives superior energy absorption up to 6 Joules/cm. The drop load impact penetration of composite N3 (59% - Nylon 66, 20% - E-glass fibre, 20% - Al wire mesh and 1 % - nano silica) shows very limited penetration than other composites. Highest fatigue life of 16391 cycles was observed for the composite designated N3, which contains 1 vol.% of nano silica, whereas the composite containing 2 vol.% of nano silica gives very lower specific wear rate and Co-efficient of friction. The developed composite which has better modulus, stiffness, wear resistance and fatigue life could be possibly used in automobile power transmission gears, domestic equipment and farm related machineries.

In this work, we report the sol–gel spin-coated novel thin film Aurivillius Phase Layered Bismuth titanate (Bi4Ti3O12, BTO) thin film coated on FTO glass substrate annealed at 700 °C was prepared and its detection of mercury ion. The structural orientation, surface morphology, chemical composition, vibrational, and optical properties of the prepared thin film were characterized using XRD, SEM, XPS, Raman, UV–Vis, and PL, respectively. From the XRD analysis, the crystal growth is well preferred in (117) plane corresponding to the orthorhombic structure of BTO. SEM images of the prepared thin film exhibited an anisotropic plate-like grained structure. Photoluminescence spectra showed a good optical emission peak at 545 nm. In Raman spectra, the observed phonon modes are well correlated to the orthorhombic phase of BTO thin films. XPS confirmed the oxidation states of Bi4Ti3O12 thin film. The electrocatalytic activity of the prepared BTO thin film electrode concerns mercury detection using cyclic voltammetry (CV) and linear sweep voltammetry (LSV) technique. CV analysis disclosed that the prepared thin film electrode is very active in the electrochemical performance of heavy metal (Hg) detection. LSV result reveals that the prepared thin film exhibits enhanced sensitivity and lower detection limit of electrochemical Hg detection. From the electro-oxidation studies, the BTO thin film electrode acts as a favorable candidate for the application of heavy metal detection.

Hepatocellular carcinoma is a well-known internal malignancy with increased worldwide mortality. The increased progression rate is closely associated with chronic liver diseases such as cirrhosis. Chemical carcinogens cause tumor advocacy over free radical metabolites to causes numerous biochemical and molecular changes that bring oxidative stress. In addition, inflammatory cells and its growth factor promotes the progression of liver cancer through deregulates the numerous cellular signaling pathways involved in normal cellular proliferation. Plant derived phytochemicals have a better complimentary potency to defend against a wide array of free radical mediated diseases such as cancer. More recently, we have evaluated the anticancer effect of Farnesol against DEN induced hepatocellular carcinoma in male wistar albino rats. However, the possible mechanism in which Farnesol attributes its anticancer effect against DEN induced liver cancer remains unknown. Hence in the present study, an attempt has been made to reduce the oxidative stress by appraise the antioxidant effect by Farnesol in DEN induced hepatocellular carcinoma. Elevated oxidative stress markers with concomitant decreased cellular antioxidants levels were observed in DEN induced hepatic tissues. Further, proliferating nuclei with increased proliferating cell nucleolar antigen (PCNA) and inflammatory mediator expression were observed in DEN induced rats. Oral supplementation of Farnesol to DEN induced rats significantly decrease the oxidative stress markers and increase the cellular antioxidant status. Moreover, Farnesol treatment decreases the argyrophilic nuclear organizer region and PCNA along with decreased expression of inflammatory mediators suggest that Farnesol treatment restores DEN induced hepatic abnormalities and protects liver from cancer progression.

Threadfins (Perciformes: Polynemidae) are commercially important, highly prized table fishes in India. In this study, we analysed the mitochondrial COI gene for validating species identification and phylogeny of threadfins occurring in Indian waters. Consequently, we developed barcodes for ten polynemids belonging to the genera Polydactylus, Eleutheronema, Leptomelanosoma, Filimanus and Polynemus. The K2P distance within the polynemid species in Indian waters ranged from zero to 0.8%. Nucleotide composition was estimated as adenine (A) = 22.5%, thymine (T) = 28.7%, cytosine (C) = 29.7% and guanine (G) = 19.1%. The average transitional pairs (75.8) were more frequent than the average transversional pairs (24.2) with an estimated Transition/Transversion bias (R) of 3.33. Cryptic species were observed in Polydactylus and Eleutheronema indicating the need for detailed studies on the taxonomy of polynemids globally. The present study determines the utility of DNA barcodes in species identification in polynemids.

The present study focused on synthesizing, characterization, and evaluating an in vitro anti-inflammatory and cytotoxic potential of green synthesized silver nanoparticles (TB-Ag NPs) from aqueous stem bark extract of Terminalia brownii (TB-AQ). The TB-Ag NPs were characterized by ultraviolet (UV)-visible, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), dynamic light X-ray diffraction, and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, as well as scanning and transmission electron microscopy. The in vitro anti-inflammatory and cytotoxic potential of TB-Ag NPs and TB-AQ were evaluated against RAW 264.7 macrophage and MDA-MB-231 triple-negative breast cancer cells, respectively, by using 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay. Further, the inhibitory effect on LPS-induced production of inflammatory mediators PGE2 and NO in RAW 264.7 cell lines was evaluated. The results showed that TB-Ag NPs were crystalline with face-centered spherical polydispersed shaped nanoparticles with an average size between 20 and 67 ± 0.5 nm. Also, TB-Ag NPs had no cytotoxic effect on RAW cells (normal healthy cells) in the range of 6.25–50 µg/mL. Besides, TB-Ag NPs at 50 µg/mL concentration exhibited 67.02% of cytotoxic effect against MDA-MB-231 cells with observed IC50 values of 29.08 µg/mL. TB-Ag NPs have shown significantly in vitro anti-inflammatory activities by exhibiting dose-dependent NO and PGE2 inhibitory activities with IC50 values of 32.82 µg/mL and 67.25 µg/mL, respectively. This study concluded that the novel green synthesized TB-Ag NPs can be used as a potential novel anti-inflammatory and cytotoxicity agent to treat inflammatory-related diseases and inflammatory breast cancer (invasive ductal carcinoma) with biocompatible nature by targeting the tumor environment.

To investigate the effectiveness of targeted ECO/miR-200c in modulating tumor microenvironment and treating triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) using non-invasive magnetic resonance molecular imaging (MRMI) of extradomain B fibronectin (EDB-FN) with a targeted MRI contrast agent. MDA-MB-231 and Hs578T TNBC cells were transfected with RGD-PEG-ECO/miR-200c. Invasive and migratory potential was evaluated using transwell, scratch wound, and spheroid formation assays. Athymic nude mice bearing orthotopic MDA-MB-231 and Hs578T xenografts were treated with weekly i.v. injection of RGD-PEG-ECO/miR-200c nanoparticles at 1.0 mg/kg/week RNA for 6 weeks. MRMI of EDB-FN was performed using a targeted contrast agent MT218 [ZD2-N3-Gd(DO3A)] on a 3 T MRS 3000 scanner. T1-weighted images were acquired following intravenous injection of MT218 at dose of 0.1 mmol/kg using a fast spin echo axial sequence with respiratory gating. Systemic administration of RGD-PEG-ECO/miR-200c nanoparticles in mice bearing orthotopic TNBC xenografts significantly suppressed tumor progression without toxic side-effects. MRMI with MT218 revealed that the treatment significantly suppressed tumor proliferation as compared to the control. MRMI also showed that the miR-200c treatment altered tumor microenvironment by reducing EDB-FN expression, as evidenced by decreased contrast enhancement in both MDA-MB-231 and Hs578T tumors. The reduction of EDB-FN was confirmed by immunohistochemistry. Targeted delivery of miR-200c with RGD-PEG-ECO/miR-200c nanoparticles effectively modulates tumor microenvironment and suppresses TNBC proliferation in animal models. MRMI of tumor EDB-FN expression is effective to non-invasively monitor tumor response and therapeutic efficacy of RGD-PEG-ECO/miR-200c nanoparticles in TNBC.

There is an imperative necessity to develop low-cost and efficient nanocatalysts as a substitute for expensive and rare noble-metal catalysts such as platinum (Pt) and gold (Au) in overcoming the limitations of carbon monoxide and intermediate poisoning in direct methanol fuel cells (DMFCs). Herein, we report a simple, one-step hydrothermal synthesis of NiCoZn ternary mixed-metal-oxide nanorod (NCZMMO)-modified glassy carbon electrode (NCZMMO/GCE) for DMFC application. The NCZMMO/GCE electrode exhibits outstanding electro-oxidation of methanol (MeOH) at a low onset potential of 0.30 V (vs Ag|AgCl) with a high current density of 414 mA/mg in an alkaline medium (1 M KOH). This outstanding performance of the electrode is ascribed to the synergistic outcome of NCZMMO nanorods, where Ni imparts the electrocatalytic active sites for methanol oxidation reaction (MOR) through its multiple oxidation states while the excellent mechanical and chemical stability of the electrode is attributed to the oxides of Co and Zn. The electrode exhibits outstanding durability with 75% retention even at 5000 s of chronoamperometry analysis in the presence of 0.5 M MeOH, which is far superior to other reported noble-metal electrocatalysts. This superior performance of NCZMMO frontlines it as a promising non-noble, low-cost electrocatalyst for various energy conversion applications.

Here, we aimed to synthesize an oxalic acid (Oxa)-induced cobalt (Co) and nickel (Ni) bimetallic assembled polyaniline (PANi) nanocomposite as a bifunctional material through a microwave-assisted method, where the Oxa was used as a complexing agent to determine the final particle size distribution of the metal dispersion. The as-prepared materials were characterized well using FTIR, PXRD, SEM, XPS, BET and zeta potential analysis. Among the prepared Co–Oxa, Ni–Oxa, Co–Oxa–Ni and Co–Oxa–Ni@PANi electrode materials, Co–Oxa–Ni@PANi nanocomposite exhibited a higher specific capacitance (1420 F g−1) at the current density of 1 A g−1, and better recyclability in a three-electrode system with 1 M KOH electrolyte, where the electrolyte could diffuse between the carbon layers of PANi provides sufficient space to buffer the volume change. Besides, the chromium [Cr(VI)] adsorption density on Co–Oxa–Ni@PANi nanocomposite was much higher at solution pH conditions (5.3) compared to other materials developed for this study. The maximum uptake of Cr(VI) on Co–Oxa–Ni@PANi nanocomposite was found to be 52.52 mg g−1 with a contact time of 240 min at pH 5.3. The synthesized material was regenerated up to five times with 0.1 M NaOH solution as an eluent. A very high degree of selectivity and no dissolution was observed for the prepared nanocomposite in the selectivity and stability studies, respectively. The findings of this study are of great importance in the development of multitalented materials by the one-pot two-step (1p2s) method. These materials can be used in both fields of energy and environment with minimal energy consumption.

Bioelectrochemical systems (BESs) are a new and emerging technology in the field of fermentation technology. Electrical energy was provided externally to the microbial electrolysis cells (MECs) to generate hydrogen or value-added chemicals, including caustic, formic acid, acetic acid, and peroxide. Also, BES was designed to recover nutrients, metals or remove recalcitrant compounds. The variety of naturally existing microorganisms and enzymes act as a biocatalyst to induce potential differences amid the electrodes. BESs can be performed with non-catalyzed electrodes (both anode and cathode) under favorable circumstances, unlike conventional fuel cells. In recent years, value-added chemical producing microbial electrosynthesis (MES) technology has intensely broadened the prospect for BES. An additional strategy includes the introduction of innovative technologies that help with the manufacturing of alternative materials for electrode preparation, ion-exchange membranes, and pioneering designs. Because of this, BES is emerging as a promising technology. This article deliberates recent signs of progress in BESs so far, focusing on their diverse applications beyond electricity generation and resulting performance.

Objective Octenidine dihydrochloride is an antimicrobial cationic surfactant compound. We conducted a systematic review to determine the efficacy of octenidine‐based mouthwash on plaque formation, gingivitis, and oral microbial growth in subjects with or without periodontal disease. Materials and Methods PubMed/MEDLINE, ScienceDirect, Google Scholar, and Cochrane Library were searched for relevant studies. The review was conducted per PRISMA guidelines. Only randomized controlled trials and observational studies comparing octenidine with placebo or other mouthwashes in healthy subjects with or without periodontal disease, were considered for this review. The endpoints included percentage reduction in plaque index (PI), gingival index (GI), absolute reduction in the mean number of colony‐forming units (CFU/ml [log10]) and adverse effects (AEs; tooth staining/mucosal tolerance). Results Ten randomized controlled and six observational studies fulfilled the selection criteria. Twice or thrice daily rinsing with 0.1% octenidine for 30–60 s produced significant reduction in plaque, gingivitis and oral microbial growth. Compared to control mouthwash or baseline, 0.1% octenidine inhibited plaque formation by ~38.7%–92.9%, which was either equal or greater than that of chlorhexidine gluconate. 0.1% octenidine reduced gingivitis by ~36.4%–68.37% versus control mouthwash or baseline and microbial growth by 0.37–5.3 colony‐forming units (vs. chlorhexidine: 0.4–4.23 colony‐forming units). Additional benefits of 0.1% octenidine were significant reduction in the number of bleeding sites, papilla bleeding index, sulcus bleeding index, and gingival fluid flow. Conclusion Within the limitations of this study, there exists moderate evidence that 0.1% OCT was found to be an effective antiplaque agent. Octenidine inhibited plaque formation upto 93% and gingivitis upto 68% versus placebo and was either superior or comparable to chlorhexidine. Octenidine was well‐tolerated and safe and can be an effective alternative to CHX and other contemporary mouthwashes.

Europium vanadate (EuVO4) nanorods were synthesized via the facile solvothermal route by using europium oxide as europium (Eu) source and ammonium metavanadate as vanadium (V) source. The synthesized EuVO4 nanorods were characterized by X-ray diffraction spectrum (XRD), Fourier transform spectroscopy (FTIR), micro-Raman spectroscopy, scanning electron microscope (SEM), high-resolution transmission electron microscope (HRTEM), energy dispersive X-ray analyses (EDX), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM), ultraviolet (UV)–visible absorption spectrum, and photoluminescence (PL) to find the structural, optical, morphological, and magnetic and luminescence behaviors. Also, electrochemical analysis was performed to analyze the capacitive nature of the prepared EuVO4 electrodes by using cyclic voltammetry (CV), galvanostatic charge/discharge (GCD), and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) techniques. XRD spectrum declares that the synthesized EuVO4 nanorods were highly crystalline in nature with tetragonal structure. FTIR and micro-Raman spectrum reveals the bonding nature of the prepared EuVO4 nanorods. SEM and HRTEM expose the rod-shaped morphology of the prepared EuVO4 nanorods. EDX spectrum justifies the purity of the prepared sample by showing the only presence of Eu, V, and O elements. UV–Vis spectrum shows the broad band from 260 to 280 nm which is due to VO43− absorption. PL spectrum of EuVO4 nanorods illustrate the electronic transitions that occur at 4f6, 5d1 → 4f7, which make an excellent photoluminescence emission in the region of blue (484 nm). From the CV and GCD studies, the maximum specific capacitance values of the EuVO4 nanorods were estimated as 106.9 F g−1 (5 mV s−1) and 146 F g−1 (1 A g−1) and the Columbic efficiency for 5 A g−1 and 6 A g−1 as 94.7% and 94.5%, respectively, which gives hope for the prepared EuVO4 nanorods that can act as perfect electrodes in supercapacitors.

Nonhomologous end joining (NHEJ), one of the major DNA double-strand break repair pathways, plays a significant role in cancer cell proliferation and resistance to radio and chemotherapeutic agents. Previously, we had described a small molecule inhibitor, SCR7, which inhibited NHEJ in a DNA Ligase IV dependent manner. Here, we report that SCR7 potentiates the effect of γ-radiation (IR) that induces DNA breaks as intermediates to eradicate cancer cells. Dose fractionation studies revealed that coadministration of SCR7 and IR (0.5 Gy) in mice Dalton's lymphoma (DLA) model led to a significant reduction in mice tumor cell proliferation, which was equivalent to that observed for 2 Gy dose when both solid and liquid tumor models were used. Besides, co-treatment with SCR7 and 1 Gy of IR further improved the efficacy. Notably, there was no significant change in blood parameters, kidney and liver functions upon combinatorial treatment of SCR7 and IR. Further, the co-treatment of SCR7 and IR resulted in a significant increase in unrepaired DSBs within cancer cells compared to either of the agent alone. Anatomy, histology, and other studies in tumor models confirmed the cumulative effects of both agents in activating apoptotic pathways to induce cytotoxicity by modulating DNA damage response and repair pathways. Thus, we report that SCR7 has the potential to reduce the side effects of radiotherapy by lowering its effective dose ex vivo and in mice tumor models, with implications in cancer therapy.

Indole acetic acid (IAA) production is a major property of rhizosphere bacteria that stimulates and facilitates plant growth. The present work deals with the isolation, characterization, and identification of indole acetic acid-producing bacteria from the rhizospheric soil. Out of four organisms isolated from serial dilution, Sample-2 confirmed thick bands of IAA production by TLC analysis. 16s rRNA analysis showed the isolated organism was found to be Pseudomonas fluorescence with a similarity of 88%. The isolated organism treat plants showed increased shoot and root length in plant growth analysis. In conclusion, the isolated IAA-producing bacteria can be used as efficient biofertilizer inoculants to promote plant growth.

Urinary catheters are regularly used withinside the elderly for each short- or long-term. The biofilm formation occurs on the catheters and leads to urinary tract infection. The present study focus on the development of Sphagneticolatrilobata coated catheters for the prevention of urinary tract infections (UTI). Bioactive compounds were extracted using methanol and MIC was determined. Biofilm inhibition assay was determined by Fluorescent microscopic analysis. 7.5mg/ml extracts showed 13mm against E. coli and 14mm against S. aureus. The extract-coated catheter showed a significant reduction in biofilms from the fluorescent microscopic analysis. Hence Sphagneticolatrilobataflower extract coated catheters can be used to prevent biofilm colonization and urinary tract infections.

The environmental–friendly synthesis of nanostructural aluminium nitride with high purity and good dispersity properites is regarded as a technical issue. In this paper, an arc discharge with assistance of direct nitridation has been put forward to synthesize aluminium nitride nanoparticles that simultaneously possess the high purity of more than 97%, the average particle size of 99.1 nm, and the specific surface area of 60.8 m2 g−1. Compared with the aluminium nitride prepared by direct nitridation of aluminium nanoparticles, the unique framework of the satellite structural and small-sized aluminium nanoparticles attached on larger-sized aluminium nitride nanoparticles is prepared by arc discharge, which can prevent effectively agglomeration and coalescence of aluminium nitride nanoparticles in the next nitridation process. In addition, the direct nitridation process requires a low temperature of 600 °C for 2 h, because the nonstructural aluminum particles are evenly distributed on the surface of aluminum nitride and process the low average diameter of 40 nm. The work provides an efficient technique to open up the possibility of technological advancement for preparing metal nitride nanoparticles with high purity and good dispersity.

Hydrogels are reported to have various biomedical field applications, and many reports also suggest that soft gels promote stem cell differentiation. Chondrogenic differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) is significant in articular cartilage repair. This study focuses on polysaccharide-based hydrogels which enhance chondrocyte lineage differentiation of MSC when grown in the hydrogels. This study implies that the prepared hydrogels promote specific lineage without any external chemical induction factors. The techniques, including immunofluorescence and functional assays to assess the differentiation and in vivo implantation, were employed. All observations paved the way towards confirmation that the galactoxyloglucan-based hydrogel is an attractive candidate for supporting stem cell growth and cartilaginous differentiation.