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Rhus javanica (Anacardiaceae) containing abundant glucopyranosidal constituents, is traditionally used to treat gastric and duodenal ulcer, dysentery, and diarrhea. Rumex hastatus (Polygonaceae) widely distributed in Pakistan, has traditional importance in treating wound healing, jaundice, rheumatism, and skin diseases. Callistemon viminalis (Myrtaceae), a rich source of essential oils, saponins, triterpenoids, phloroglucinols, and flavonoids is used in industries, perfumes, nutrition, and cosmetics. Taking the importance of the subject plants, this study is designed to synthesize silver nanoparticles via aqueous extracts of R. javanica (RJAgNPs), R. hastatus (RHAgNPs), and C. viminalis (CVAgNPs). Synthesis, surface, and sizes of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) were confirmed using spectroscopic techniques including ultraviolet–visible (UV–Vis), Fourier transform-infrared (FT-IR), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). AgNPs were produced in ratios 1:15, 1:16, and 1:9 and inferred via appearance of a sharp surface plasmon resonance (SPR) absorption peak (400–435 nm), which represented well-defined, stable, and spherical AgNPs. From SEM analysis, the sizes of RJAgNPs, RHAgNPs, and CVAgNPs were found to be 67 nm, 61 nm, and 55 nm, respectively. The synthesized AgNPs exhibited potential free radical scavenging, antibacterial, and catalytic properties in degradation of dyes including Congo red, methylene blue, methyl orange, rhodamine B, ortho and para-nitrophenols, and several food colours. Hence, the subject AgNPs in the current study might display promising role in drug development and remediation of environmental/industrial effluents.

The hyperglycemic condition due to diabetes could be managed through retardation of the carbohydrate metabolism by inhibiting the enzymes involved in its degradation. Currently available therapeutic drugs for diabetes as inhibitors of α-glucosidase have limitations on safety, efficacy, and potency. Terpenes have been traditionally used for the treatment of different ailments in humans. Pharmacological activities related to different types of terpenes include antiviral, anticancer, antidepressant, anti-inflammatory, and antidiabetic among others. This study is aimed to unravel the novel antidiabetic plant-derived terpenes as α-glucosidase inhibitors and to investigate the molecular mechanisms underlying this activity. To determine the binding affinity of the plant-derived terpenes with the α-glucosidase target enzyme, an in-house library of 86 terpenes was created after a thorough search of the literature. The terpenes were virtually screened against the receptor protein by performing molecular docking via MOE software package. The binding affinity of the selected compounds was confirmed through molecular dynamic simulation studies. Further, pharmacophore studies, drug-likeness, and ADMET analysis of the top scoring terpenes were also performed. The docking score, drug-likeness assessment, pharmacokinetics analysis, and pharmacophore studies revealed that three compounds namely Gypsogenin -O-α-D-galactopyranosyl-(1-6)-β-D-glucopyranosyl-(1-6)-[β-D-glucopyranosyl-(1-3)]-β-D-glucopyranosyl ester, Segetalic acid and 22-α hydroxychiisanoside are effective inhibitors of α-glucosidase enzyme compared to the standard inhibitors. These findings showed that plant derived terpenes are potential α-glucosidase inhibitors and need to be explored through modern techniques for the development of effective plant-based antidiabetic drugs.

Chitin, a cell wall polysaccharide, extracted from Nelumbo nucifera rhizome (NNR), was subjected to microwave treatment to modify its physical and functional characteristics. The NNR flour was irradiated at different levels of the microwave treatment period (1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 min). Chitin was extracted from the native and microwave-treated samples and analyzed for physical and functional characteristics. The microwave treatment resulted in some variations in the extract yield, structure, morphology, and composition of chitin that were directly correlated with its functional properties. Regression analysis of the data showed a significant ( p < 0.05) time-dependent linear decrease in extract yield, polynomial decrease in water-holding and swelling capacities, an exponential increase in oil holding, and an exponential decrease in iron-binding capacity of chitin extracted from microwave-treated flour. These variations in the studied functional properties may be due to microwave-induced hydrolytic degradation of chitin, structural rearrangements, and exposure of some lipophilic functional groups on the surface of chitin. The data would be a valuable contribution to the literature regarding microwave-induced modification in physical and functional characteristics of chitin present in N. nucifera rhizome and other plant-based biomaterials of industrial importance.

The alkali-soluble cell wall polysaccharides (CWPs), extracted from Nelumbo nucifera rhizome flour (NNRF), were treated with microwave radiation to modify their physical characteristics, functional properties, and antioxidant potential. The NNRF was treated at different levels of microwave treatment time (1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 min) using the low-medium intensity (200 W). The cell wall was isolated and CWPs were extracted in 10% KOH solution followed by their physical, functional, and antioxidant characterization. Microwave treatment resulted in the morphological, structural and compositional modifications in CWPs that were directly correlated with their functional properties and antioxidant potential. A significant (p

Toad venom (Chansu) is used in the treatment of infectious and inflammatory diseases in China and East/Southeast Asian countries. However, the anti-inflammatory components of toad venom have not yet been systematically evaluated and clearly defined. To investigate the anti-inflammatory effects of toad venom and identify new anti-inflammatory ingredients, we used zebrafish, an alternative drug screening model, to evaluate the anti-inflammatory effects of 14 bufadienolides previously isolated from toad venom. Most of the bufadienolides were found to exert significant anti-inflammatory effects on lipopolysaccharide-, CuSO4-, or tail transection-induced zebrafish inflammatory models. Moreover, gammabufotalin ( 6) inhibits lipopolysaccharide-induced inflammation by suppressing the myeloid differentiation primary response 88/nuclear factor-kappa B and STAT3 signal pathways. This study confirms the potential of zebrafish in drug screening, clarifies the anti-inflammatory effects of bufadienolides from toad venom, and indicates that gammabufotalin may be developed as a novel therapeutic agent for inflammatory diseases in the future.

Piper longum (long pepper) in dried form is used in several traditional medicines and as a spice. The present study highlights nutritional and toxic elements content, synthesis, and characterization of silver, copper oxide, and nickel nanoparticles using P. longum catkin extract. The study also determined anticancer, antioxidant, antimicrobial, and redox catalytic activities of the synthesized NPs. The P. longum extract mediated nanoparticles (PLNPs) synthesized at different pH and ratios were characterized by UV-Vis (ultra-violet-visible), FT-IR (Fourier-Transform infrared), and scanning electron and atomic force microscopic (SEM, AFM) techniques. Elemental content of P. longum catkin determined by inductively coupled plasma-optical emission spectroscopy (ICP-OES) and ICP-mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) indicated appreciable concentrations of nutritional elements, and well below permissible ranges of toxic elements. Well-defined and stable silver nanoparticles (PLAgNPs) were formed in 1:4 to 1:6 ratios, while copper oxide and nickel NPs (PLCuONPs and PLNiNPs) were found prominent in 1:6 ratio. In determining the effect of pH on synthesized PLNPs, sharp intense absorption peaks were obtained under slightly neutral to highly basic conditions (pH 6 to 13) for PLAgNPs, whereas for PLCuONPs and PLNiNPs, pH 7–8 was optimum. In biological activities, PLNPs exhibited significant anticancer efficacy against DU-145 (prostate cancer) cell line in the range from 92.7% (PLCuONPs) to 100% (PLAgNPs, PLNiNPs). Fuurthermore, the sythesized NPs exhibited significant antioxidant, antimicrobial, and redox catalytic properties. This study concluded the promising nutritional, biological and environmental remediation applications, and hence, further exploration of the synthesized NPs in biological and clinical applications is currently under investigation.

Vitex peduncularis, belongs to the Verbenaceae family, locally known as ‘Boruna’, ‘Horina’, ‘Ashmul gaas’, is commonly used for treating various chronic diseases in the folk medicine such as malarial fevers, jaundice, diabetes, chest pain, joint ache, abnormality in eyes & face, and urethritis, etc. In the present study, we investigated the anxiolytic, sedative, and antioxidant activities of ethanol extract of V. peduncularis leaves (EEVP) in both in vivo and in vitro models. Then, a molecular docking analysis was carried out to determine the possible lead compounds of EEVP for the biological properties described above. The anxiolytic and sedative activity of EEVP was determined using hole board and hole cross tests, respectively. Antioxidant activity was measured using DPPH and FRPA assays, whereas docking was done by using the Schrodinger suite (Maestro v10.1). Our result demonstrated that EEVP has significant and dose-dependent anxiolytic and sedative activity at the doses of 200 and 400 mg/kg (b.w.) in both models. This study also exhibited that EEVP has significant antioxidant activity compared to reference standard ascorbic acid. The molecular docking study revealed that 3,4-dihydroxybenzoic acid, 4-hydroxybenzoic acid, and vitexilactone have the best binding affinities against the target receptors (potassium channel receptor, human gamma-aminobutyric acid receptor, and human peroxiredoxin 5) for anxiolytic, sedative, and antioxidant activities. The present study confirmed that EEVP has anxiolytic, sedative, and antioxidant properties, which could be because of the occurrence of various phytochemicals and three bioactive phytocompounds which found potential during molecular docking analysis.

The ability of plasmonic metal nanostructures (PMNs), such as silver and gold nanoparticles, to manipulate and concentrate electromagnetic fields at the nanoscale is the foundation for wide range o...

Background Curculigo recurvata (C. recurvata) is an enthnomedicinally important herb reported to have significant medicinal values. The present study aimed to explore the in vivo and in silico anti‐nociceptive and anti‐diarrheal effects of a C. recurvate rhizome methanol extract (Me‐RCR). Methods The analgesic effects of Me‐RCR were assessed using acetic acid‐induced writhing and the formalin‐induced flicking test. The drugs were administered intraperitoneally (IP) at doses of 200 and 400 mg/kg body weight (bw). Anti‐diarrheal activity was evaluated by assessing intestinal motility, hypersecretion, and fecal score in mice at oral doses of 200 and 400 mg/kg·bw. Computer facilitated analyses for anti‐nociceptive and anti‐diarrheal activities of three isolated compounds from C. recurvata were undertaken to identify the best‐fit phytoconstituents. Results The Me‐RCR showed significant (P

The benefits of LDL cholesterol-lowering treatment for the prevention of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease are well established. However, the extent to which these effects differ by baseline LDL cholesterol, atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease risk, and the presence of comorbidities remains uncertain.We did a systematic literature search (MEDLINE, Embase, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, from inception up to June 15, 2019) for randomised controlled trials of statins, ezetimibe, and proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 inhibitors with at least 1000 patient-years of follow-up. Random-effects meta-analysis and meta-regressions were done to assess for risk of major vascular events (a composite of cardiovascular mortality, non-fatal myocardial infarction, non-fatal ischaemic stroke, or coronary revascularisation) per 1 mmol/L (38·7 mg/dL) reduction in LDL cholesterol concentrations.327 037 patients from 52 studies were included in the meta-analysis. Each 1 mmol/L reduction in LDL cholesterol was associated with a 19% relative risk (RR) reduction for major vascular events (RR 0·81 [95% CI 0·78-0·84]; p0·0001). Similar reductions (per 1 mmol/L reduction in LDL cholesterol) were found in trials with participants with LDL cholesterol 2·60 mmol/L or lower, 2·61-3·40 mmol/L, 3·41-4·10 mmol/L, and more than 4·1 mmol/L (p=0·232 for interaction); and in a subgroup of patients who all had a baseline LDL cholesterol less than 2·07 mmol/L (80 mg/dL; RR 0·83 [95% CI 0·75-0·92]; p=0·001). We found greater RR reductions in patients at lower 10-year atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease risk (change in RR per 10% lower 10-year atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease 0·97 [95% CI 0·95-0·98]; p0·0001) and in patients at younger age across a mean age of 50-75 years (change in RR per 10 years younger age 0·92 [0·83-0·97]; p=0·015). We found no difference in RR reduction for participants with or without diabetes (p=0·878 for interaction) and chronic kidney disease (p=0·934 for interaction).For each 1 mmol/L LDL cholesterol lowering, the risk reduction of major vascular events is independent of the starting LDL cholesterol or the presence of diabetes or chronic kidney disease. Patients at lower cardiovascular risk and younger age might have a similar relative reduction in risk with LDL-cholesterol lowering therapies and future studies should investigate the potential benefits of earlier intervention.None.

Obesity is a complex disease of global epidemic proportions. Adipose tissue expansion and chronic low-grade inflammation, locally and systemically, are hallmark features of obesity. Obesity is associated with several other chronic diseases, which are also characterized by inflammation. Determination of adipocyte size and macrophage content in adipose tissue is a critical step in assessing changes in this tissue with obesity. Here, we introduce a complete standalone software package, AdipoGauge, to analyse microscopic images derived from haematoxylin and eosin (H&E)-stained and immunofluorescently stained histology sections of adipose tissue. The software package is a user-friendly application that does not require a vast knowledge of computer science or costly commercial tools. AdipoGauge includes analysing tools that are capable of cell counting and colour separation. Furthermore, it can quantify the cell data in images both with and without clear boundaries around the cells. It can also remove objects from the image that are not intended for analysis, such as blood vessels or partial cells at edges of slide sections. The simple and state-of-the-art graphical user interface requires minimal time and learning.

Palm grass (Curculigo recurvata) is an ethnomedicinally important herb reported to have significant medicinal values. The present study aimed to evaluate the antidepressant and anxiolytic activities of a methanol extract of C. recurvata rhizome (Me-RCR) through different approaches. The antidepressant and anxiolytic properties of Me-RCR were assessed by using elevated plus maze (EPM), hole-board (HBT), tail suspension (TST), and forced swimming (FST) tests in Swiss Albino mice. The in-depth antioxidative potential of Me-RCR was also evaluated through DPPH radical scavenging activity, ferric-reducing power capacity, total phenolic, flavonoid, flavonol, and antioxidant content analysis. Computational investigations were performed using computer-aided methods for screening the anxiolytic, antidepressant, and antioxidative activities of the selected lead molecules. Treatment with Me-RCR (200 and 400 mg/kg, b.w.) notably increased the number of open arm entries and the time spent in the EPM test. In the HBT, Me-RCR exhibited significant anxiolytic activity at a dose of 200 mg/kg, whereas similar activity was observed at 400 mg/kg in the EPM test. Me-RCR significantly decreased the immobility time in a dose-dependent manner in both TST and FST. The IC50 for DPPH and reducing power capacity assay were found to be 18.56 and 193 μg/mL, respectively. Promising outcomes were noted for the determination of total phenolics, flavonoids, flavonols, and antioxidant capacity. In the case of computer-aided studies, nyasicoside showed promising binding energy for antidepressant and anxiolytic activities, whereas isocurculigine demonstrated promising effects as an antioxidant. Overall, these findings suggest that Me-RCR could be a favourable therapeutic candidate for the treatment of mental and psychiatric disorders, as well as a good source of antioxidants., Graphical abstract Image 1, Curculigo recurvata; Nyasicoside; Antidepressant; Anxiolytic; Antioxidant.

Application of fine, inert ‘rock dust’ (RD) to the surfaces in underground coal mines is a common method for mitigating coal dust explosion hazards. However, due to its size, RD has the potential to contribute to the respirable coal mine dust (RCMD) concentration. Though the RD component of RCMD does not appear to pose the sort of health hazards associated with other components such as crystalline silica, understanding its relative abundance may be quite helpful for evaluating and controlling primary dust sources. Given that RD products are frequently comprised of high-purity limestone (i.e., primarily calcite mineral), calcite may serve as a suitable proxy for measuring RD. To estimate the mass percentage of calcite in RCMD samples, this study demonstrates the successful application of direct-on-filter (DOF) Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. Incidentally, DOF FTIR has been the focus of recent efforts to enable rapid measurement of crystalline silica in RCMD. Concurrent measurement of other constituents such as calcite is thus a logical next step, which can allow a broader interpretation of dust composition and source contributions. Published version

Trachyspermum ammi L. (bishop’s weed), belonging to Apiaceae family, is used as a condiment in curries, and in folk medicine for its antidiarrheal and anthelmintic properties and as a laxative. The current study was designed to extract and analyze the volatile oil of T. ammi by simultaneous-distillation extraction (SDE) and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), and identify its major constituents by Fourier transform-infrared (FT-IR) and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy. Furthermore, the study evaluated the total phenolic and flavonoid contents, antioxidant, antibacterial, antifungal, and anticholinesterase activities by ultraviolet spectroscopy. Among the 81 prominent peaks observed in GC-MS, the major volatile flavor compounds were thymol (50.04%) > γ-terpinene (19.13%) > ρ-cymene (18.95%) > β-pinene (2.11%) > carvacrol (1.53%). Additionally, ethyl acetate, acetone, and methanol fractions exhibited comparatively high of phenolic and flavonoid contents. These fractions also potently inhibited the DPPH and ABTS free radicals. However, n-hexane, chloroform, and aqueous extracts were shown to provide significant antibacterial, antifungal, and anticholinesterase activities. Hence, T. ammi confirmed to be a rich source of volatiles and phenolics exhibiting significant antioxidant and anticholinesterase activities, and thus, may provide positive health impacts.

Controlling the shape of metal nanoparticles is generally accomplished using shape-directing agents. Particle synthesis without shape-directing agents and shape control have attracted strong interest given the side effects of the shape-directing agents. Here, the potential of graphene in the deposition of metallic nanoparticles with different morphologies without using shape-directing agents was investigated. Doping graphene with nitrogen via plasma treatment enhanced the metal reduction. The nitrogen content was varied by changing the plasma treatment time. Nitrogen doping mainly occurred at boundary-like defects and involved pyrrolic nitrogen as the major chemical configuration. Graphene grown on copper substrate grown via chemical vapor deposition was used to deposit spherical silver nanoparticles throughout the graphene along with microparticles that were randomly distributed on the surface. Transition of microparticles of silver from dendrites to well-defined platelets morphologies was observed with nitrogen-doped graphene after 10 min of nitrogen plasma exposure. The number density of silver particles was controlled by varying the plasma treatment time. Surface-enhanced Raman scattering activity of these silver particles grown on graphene using copper substrates was assessed using a Rhodamine 6G Raman probe in the concentration range of 10 nM to 1 mM.

Although vital to the immune system, macrophages can act as reservoirs for pathogens such as tuberculosis and human immunodeficiency virus. Limitations in the treatment of such diseases include targeting therapeutics directly to macrophages and the large systemic dosages needed. The objective of this study is to develop a nanoparticle (NP)-based drug delivery system that can provide targeted delivery into macrophages. Acetalated dextran (Ac-Dex) NP loaded with the lipophilic model compound curcumin (CUR) were synthesized and coated in 1,2-dipalmitoyl-sn-glycero-3-phospho- l -serine (DPPS), a phospholipid that induces phagocytosis in macrophages. DPPS-CUR NP were found to release 67.8% of encapsulated CUR within 24 h at pH 5.35 and exhibited minimal CUR release (6.3%) at pH 7.4. DPPS-CUR NP were uptaken by murine macrophages significantly more than NP without DPPS coating and NP exposure to these macrophages resulted in minimal toxicity to the cells and minimal nitric oxide production. These results suggest that the combination of the DPPS coating and pH-sensitive polymer Ac-Dex can provide a NP delivery system capable of enhanced uptake by macrophages and potential systemic stability to more effectively deliver drugs of interest. As a result, the described DPPS-CUR NP can serve as a viable delivery system for the treatment of macrophage-associated diseases.

Background: The effects of combined oral contraceptive pills and metformin on glucose and lipid metabolism and androgenic hormone profile of hirsute women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) are not clearly known. Aims: To determine the effect of ethinylestradiol (35 microg)/cyproterone acetate (2 mg) (EE/CPA) and ethinylestradiol (20 microg)/desogestrel 0.15 mg (EE/DES) alone and in combination with metformin on glucose and lipid metabolism and androgenic hormone profile in hirsute women with PCOS. Settings and Design: This randomised, double-blind, triple dummy study was conducted at the Department of Pharmacology, Faulty of Science, University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka. Methods and Material: A total of 107 patients with PCOS (Rotterdam Consensus Conference Criteria 2003) having hirsutism of 8 or more in the modified Ferriman-Gallwey Score (mFGS), were randomised to receive four drug therapies (arm A: EE/CPA, arm B: EE/DES, arm C: EE/CPA plus metformin, arm D: EE/DES plus metformin). Body mass index, fasting plasma glucose, area under the curve of the oral glucose tolerance test, fasting serum insulin, serum leptin, fasting lipids, serum total testosterone, serum sex hormone-binding globulin were determined at initiation and 12 months. Homeostasis model assessment of beta cell function (HOMA-β), homeostasis model assessment-estimated insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) and free androgen index were calculated. Statistical analysis was done with two ways ANOVA. Results: There was no significant difference in outcome measures at 12 months between the treatment arms. Within the treatment arms, there was reduction of HOMA-β in arm B, serum leptin in arm C, CHO/HDL ratio in arm D and an increase in total cholesterol and LDL-cholesterol in arms B and C. Conclusions: EE/DES and EE/CPA with and without low-dose metformin did not have a significant overall effect on glucose and lipid metabolism and androgenic hormonal profile in hirsute women with PCOS. However, desogestrel has reduced the beta-cell function and both desogestrel and cyproterone have adversely affected the lipids.

Bottom-up micropatterning or nanopatterning can be viewed as the localization of target molecules to the desired area of a surface. A majority of these processes rely on the physical adsorption of ink-like molecules to the paper-like surface, resulting in unstable immobilization of the target molecules owing to their noncovalent linkage to the surface. Herein, successive single nick-sealing facilitated the covalent immobilization of individual DNA molecules at defined positions on a dendron-coated silicon surface using atomic force microscopy. The covalently-patterned ssDNA was visualized when the streptavidin-coated gold nanoparticles bound to the biotinylated DNA. The successive covalent positioning of the target DNA under ambient conditions may facilitate the bottom-up construction of DNA-based durable nanostructures, nanorobots, or memory system.

Hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) is a byproduct of oxidative metabolism, acts as a signaling molecule, and can induce protein and DNA damage by oxidative stress. Ionic liquid-coated lignin stabilized silver nanoparticles (LAgNPs) have been used for the colorimetric detection of H2O2. Both ionic liquid and lignin moieties have a synergistic effect on the conductivity of silver nanoparticles to display intrinsic peroxidase-like activity with the enhanced potential to catalyze the oxidation of substrate 3,3′,5,5′-tetramethylbenzidine (TMB). LAgNPs have been synthesized by the green synthesis method and the prepared nanoparticles have been characterized by different techniques such as FTIR, EDX, TGA, SEM, and XRD. 1-H-3-methylimidazolium acetate (ionic liquid) was prepared and used for tuning of AgNPs. By using ionic liquid capped LAgNPs the colorimetric detection of H2O2 was done with the assistance of TMB solution and results were analyzed by UV–Vis spectrophotometer. Different parameters such as (amount of capping agent and TMB, pH, H2O2 concentration, and time) were optimized to get the best results of the proposed sensor. The H2O2 biosensor exhibited a linear response in the range of 1 × 10−9–3.6 × 10−7 M, with a detection limit of 1.379 × 10−8 M and a quantification limit of 4.59 × 10−8 M, and R2 of 0.999. The sensor gave a short response time of 5 min for colorimetric detection of H2O2 at pH 7.5 and room temperature. For the detection of hydrogen peroxide, the proposed sensor showed good sensitivity and selectivity and was successfully employed for the detection of H2O2 in the blood serum samples of hypertension patients.

ObjectivePrevious studies suggested that recombinant human IGF-1 (rhIGF-1) administration affects carbohydrate and lipid metabolism in healthy people and in people with diabetes. This study aimed to determine the effects of rhIGF-1/rhIGF binding protein-3 (rhIGFBP-3) administration on glucose homeostasis and lipid metabolism in healthy recreational athletes.Design and SettingRandomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled rhIGF-1/rhIGFBP-3 administration study at Southampton General Hospital, UK.Participants56 recreational athletes (30 men, 26 women).MethodsParticipants were randomly assigned to receive placebo, low-dose rhIGF-1/rhIGFBP-3 (30 mg/day) or high-dose rhIGF-1/rhIGFBP-3 (60 mg/day) for 28 days. The following variables were measured before and immediately after the treatment period: fasting lipids, glucose, insulin, C-peptide and glycated haemoglobin. The homeostatic model assessment (HOMA-IR) was used to estimate insulin sensitivity and indirect calorimetry to assess substrate oxidation rates. The general linear model approach was used to compare treatment group changes with the placebo group.ResultsCompared with the placebo group, there was a significant reduction in fasting triglycerides in participants treated with high-dose rhIGF-1/rhIGFBP-3 (p = .030), but not in the low-dose group (p = .390). In women, but not in men, there were significant increases in total cholesterol (p = .003), HDL cholesterol (p = .001) and LDL cholesterol (p = .008). These lipid changes were associated with reduced fasting insulin (p = .010), C-peptide (p = .001) and HOMA-IR (p = .018) in women and reduced C-peptide (p = .046) in men.ConclusionsrhIGF-1/rhIGFBP-3 administration for 28 days reduced insulin concentration, improved insulin sensitivity and had significant effects on lipid profile including decreased fasting triglycerides.

Automated hematology analyzer uses the Coulter principle leading to different cell types based on their size. Despite being rapid and convenient, it can result in spurious outcomes like ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA)-induced pseudothrombocytopenia. EDTA-induced pseudothrombocytopenia is an immunologically mediated phenomenon resulting from a change in the configuration of glycoprotein (GP) IIb/IIIa by EDTA. The consequence is an exposure of hidden epitope that reacts with certain autoantibodies resulting in spuriously low platelet counts when the blood samples are evaluated by automated blood analyzers. Although it is a rare cause of thrombocytopenia, if not recognized, it can result in unnecessary investigations and treatments. In this case, EDTA-induced psuedothrombocytopenia delayed laparoscopic cholecystectomy planned for symptomatic cholelithiasis in a 58-year-old male. The presence of large platelet clumps on peripheral smear and normal manual platelet counts confirmed the diagnosis. Pseudothrombocytopenia should be suspected when there is no correlation between clinical and laboratory findings in a patient with a low platelet count. Reperforming counts with other anticoagulants and if necessary, manual count in the peripheral blood smear is suggested.

White adipose tissue (WAT) and brown adipose tissue (BAT) are involved in whole-body energy homeostasis and metabolic regulation. Changes to mass and function of these tissues impact glucose homeostasis and whole-body energy balance during development of obesity, weight loss, and subsequent weight regain. Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (ω-3 PUFAs), which have known hypotriglyceridemic and cardioprotective effects, can also impact WAT and BAT function. In rodent models, these fatty acids alleviate obesity-associated WAT inflammation, improve energy metabolism, and increase thermogenic markers in BAT. Emerging evidence suggests that ω-3 PUFAs can also modulate gut microbiota impacting WAT function and adiposity. This review discusses molecular mechanisms, implications of these findings, translation to humans, and future work, especially with reference to the potential of these fatty acids in weight loss maintenance.

Background There is ongoing debate regarding potential associations between restrictions of antimicrobial use and prevalence of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in bacteria. Objectives To summarize the effects of interventions reducing antimicrobial use in food-producing animals on the prevalence of AMR genes (ARGs) in bacteria from animals and humans. Methods We published a full systematic review of restrictions of antimicrobials in food-producing animals and their associations with AMR in bacteria. Herein, we focus on studies reporting on the association between restricted antimicrobial use and prevalence of ARGs. We used multilevel mixed-effects models and a semi-quantitative approach based on forest plots to summarize findings from studies. Results A positive effect of intervention [reduction in prevalence or number of ARGs in group(s) with restricted antimicrobial use] was reported from 29 studies for at least one ARG. We detected significant associations between a ban on avoparcin and diminished presence of the vanA gene in samples from animals and humans, whereas for the mecA gene, studies agreed on a positive effect of intervention in samples only from animals. Comparisons involving mcr-1, blaCTX-M, aadA2, vat(E), sul2, dfrA5, dfrA13, tet(E) and tet(P) indicated a reduced prevalence of genes in intervention groups. Conversely, no effects were detected for β-lactamases other than blaCTX-M and the remaining tet genes. Conclusions The available body of scientific evidence supported that restricted use of antimicrobials in food animals was associated with an either lower or equal presence of ARGs in bacteria, with effects dependent on ARG, host species and restricted drug.

Overactivation of the renin&ndash, angiotensin system (RAS) during obesity disrupts adipocyte metabolic homeostasis and induces endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress and inflammation, however, underlying mechanisms are not well known. We propose that overexpression of angiotensinogen (Agt), the precursor protein of RAS in adipose tissue or treatment of adipocytes with Angiotensin II (Ang II), RAS bioactive hormone, alters specific microRNAs (miRNA), that target ER stress and inflammation leading to adipocyte dysfunction. Epididymal white adipose tissue (WAT) from B6 wild type (Wt) and transgenic male mice overexpressing Agt (Agt-Tg) in adipose tissue and adipocytes treated with Ang II were used. Small RNA sequencing and microarray in WAT identified differentially expressed miRNAs and genes, out of which miR-690 and mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase 3 (MAP2K3) were validated as significantly up- and down-regulated, respectively, in Agt-Tg, and in Ang II-treated adipocytes compared to respective controls. Additionally, the direct regulatory role of miR-690 on MAP2K3 was confirmed using mimic, inhibitors and dual-luciferase reporter assay. Downstream protein targets of MAP2K3 which include p38, NF-&kappa, B, IL-6 and CHOP were all reduced. These results indicate a critical post-transcriptional role for miR-690 in inflammation and ER stress. In conclusion, miR-690 plays a protective function and could be a useful target to reduce obesity.

Our previous study showed that intraperitoneal injection of α‐galactosylceramide (α‐GalCer) has the ability to activate lung iNKT cells, but α‐GalCer‐activated iNKT cells do not result in airway inflammation in wild‐type (WT) mice. Many studies showed that iNKT cells had the capacity to induce Treg cells, which gave rise to peripheral tolerance. Therefore, we examined the influence of intraperitoneal administration of α‐GalCer on the expansion and suppressive activity of lung Treg cells using iNKT cell‐knockout mice and co‐culture experiments in vitro. We also compared airway inflammation and airway hyperresponsiveness (AHR) after α‐GalCer administration in specific anti‐CD25 mAb‐treated mice. Our data showed that intraperitoneal injection of α‐GalCer could promote the expansion of lung Treg cells in WT mice, but not in iNKT cell‐knockout mice. However, α‐GalCer administration could not boost suppressive activity of Treg cells in WT mice and iNKT cell‐knockout mice. Interestingly, functional inactivation of Treg cells could induce airway inflammation and AHR in WT mice treated with α‐GalCer. Furthermore, α‐GalCer administration could enhance iNKT cells to secrete IL‐2, and neutralization of IL‐2 reduced the expansion of Treg cells in vivo and in vitro. Thus, intraperitoneal administration of α‐GalCer can induce the generation of lung Treg cells in mice through the release of IL‐2 by the activated iNKT cells.

Aim of the present study is to evaluate the in vitro, in vivo and in silico drug-drug interaction between Vildagliptin and Bisoprolol fumarate. Interaction between Vildagliptin and Bisoprolol fumarate has been studied in a system of water at a fixed 370C at pH 1.0, 3.0 and 6.8 by using spectral observation, Job’s method of continuous variation, Ardon’s method. In silico complexation was measured by NMR prediction and DDI-CPI analysis. From spectrophotometric study, Vildagliptin and Bisoprolol fumarate give different spectra when Vildagliptin mixed with Bisoprolol fumarate in 1:1 mixture, intensity of spectra of Vildagliptin transform surprisingly due to interaction. The jobs plot was attained by plotting absorbance difference (D) against the mole fraction of the each drug at pH 1, 3, and 6.8. Vildagliptin moderate for 1:1 mixture with Bisoprolol fumarate and slightly lower spectra indicate the formation of 1:1 mixture of Vildagliptin with Bisoprolol fumarate. The value of stability constant for the drug-drug system at pH 1.0, 3.0 and 6.8 are 1.875 0.7778 and 1.2000 respectively. From the IR report it also proved that Vildagliptin and Bisoprolol fumarate produced interaction. In this OGTT test at 1:1, 1:2 and 2:1 complex blood glucose level decrease compared to Vildagliptin. Because when drug-drug interaction happened, then drug cannot exhibit its main activity. That’s why in this test complex showed different activity. In in silico methods, results showed that the drugs interact with each other. So, a careful concern is desired during simultaneous administration of Vildagliptin with Bisoprolol fumarate.IIUC Studies Vol.14(1) June 2017: 29-44

The present study aimed to investigate the influence of microwave irradiation on the physical and functional properties of starch extracted from Nelumbo nucifera seed flour. The seed flour was obtained by manual grinding of seeds and irradiated at different microwave treatment time, i.e., 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 min at the low-medium intensity. The starch was extracted in distilled water and dried at room temperature using a vacuum desiccator. The morphology, crystal structure, and surface parameters of starch granules were analyzed using scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, Fourier transform infra-red spectroscopy and Brunauer, Emmett and Teller surface analysis techniques. The functional properties of starch were also determined in terms of water and oil holding capacity, swelling capacity, emulsifying activity and gelling ability. Evidently, crystallinity, surface area and pore volume of starch granules were found to be increased, while particle size and average pore size were decreased as a function of microwave treatment time. The microwave-induced variations in physical parameters significantly affected the functional properties of starch. A significant (p > 0.05) exponential decrease in extraction yield and gelling ability, while an exponential increase in the functional properties of starch with increase in the microwave treatment time (R2 = 0.915–0.985) was recorded.

Background Regorafenib, a multikinase inhibitor that inhibits angiogenesis, growth, and proliferation, prolongs survival as monotherapy in patients with refractory colorectal cancer. This international, double-blind, placebo-controlled, multicenter trial assessed the efficacy of regorafenib with folinic acid, fluorouracil, and irinotecan (FOLFIRI) as a second-line treatment for metastatic colorectal cancer. Methods Patients with metastatic colorectal cancer who progressed on first-line oxaliplatin and fluoropyrimidine enrolled at 45 sites in the United States and Ireland. Patients, stratified by prior bevacizumab use, were randomized 2:1 to regorafenib or placebo. The treatment consisted of FOLFIRI on days 1 and 2 and days 15 and 16 with 160 mg of regorafenib or placebo on days 4 to 10 and days 18 to 24 of every 28-day cycle. Crossover was not allowed. The primary endpoint was progression-free survival (PFS). Under the assumption of a 75% event rate, 180 patients were required for 135 events to achieve 90% power to detect a hazard ratio (HR) of 0.65 with a 1-sided α value of .1. Results One hundred eighty-one patients were randomized (120 to regorafenib-FOLFIRI and 61 to placebo-FOLFIRI) with a median age of 62 years. Among these, 117 (65%) received prior bevacizumab or aflibercept. PFS was longer with regorafenib-FOLFIRI than placebo-FOLFIRI (median, 6.1 vs 5.3 months; HR, 0.73; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.53-1.01; log-rank P = .056). The median overall survival was not longer (HR, 1.01; 95% CI, 0.71-1.44). The response rate was higher with regorafenib-FOLFIRI (34%; 95% CI, 25%-44%) than placebo-FOLFIRI (21%; 95% CI, 11%-33%; P = .07). Grade 3/4 adverse events with a >5% absolute increase from regorafenib included diarrhea, neutropenia, febrile neutropenia, hypophosphatemia, and hypertension. Conclusions The addition of regorafenib to FOLFIRI as second-line therapy for metastatic colorectal cancer only modestly prolonged PFS over FOLFIRI alone. Cancer 2018. © 2018 American Cancer Society.

Visceral obesity may be a driving factor in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) development. Previous studies have shown that the omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid, eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), ameliorates obesity in high-fat (HF) fed male, C57Bl/6 mice at thermoneutral conditions, independent of uncoupling protein 1 (UCP1). Our goals herein were to investigate sex-dependent mechanisms of EPA in the livers of wild type (WT) and UCP1 knockout (KO) male and female mice fed a HF diet (45% kcal fat; WT-HF, KO-HF) with or without supplementation of 36 g/kg EPA (WT-EPA, KO-EPA). KO significantly increased body weight in males, with no significant reductions with EPA in the WT or KO groups. In females, there were no significant differences in body weight among KO groups and no effects of EPA. In males, liver TGs were significantly higher in the KO-HF group and reduced with EPA, which was not observed in females. Accordingly, gene and protein markers of mitochondrial oxidation, peroxisomal biogenesis and oxidation, as well as metabolic futile cycles were sex-dependently impacted by KO and EPA supplementation. These findings suggest a genotypic difference in response to dietary EPA supplementation on the livers of male and female mice with diet-induced obesity and housed at thermoneutrality.

This work reports engineered toehold RNA–based biosensors for COVID-19 diagnostics, with a simple color or luminescence readout that makes it easily deployable in both well-equipped labs as well as low resource settings., The continued resurgence of the COVID-19 pandemic with multiple variants underlines the need for diagnostics that are adaptable to the virus. We have developed toehold RNA–based sensors across the SARS-CoV-2 genome for direct and ultrasensitive detection of the virus and its prominent variants. Here, isothermal amplification of a fragment of SARS-CoV-2 RNA coupled with activation of our biosensors leads to a conformational switch in the sensor. This leads to translation of a reporter protein, for example, LacZ or nano-lantern that is easily detected using color/luminescence. By optimizing RNA amplification and biosensor design, we have generated a highly sensitive diagnostic assay that is capable of detecting as low as 100 copies of viral RNA with development of bright color. This is easily visualized by the human eye and quantifiable using spectrophotometry. Finally, this PHAsed NASBA-Translation Optical Method (PHANTOM) using our engineered RNA biosensors efficiently detects viral RNA in patient samples. This work presents a powerful and universally accessible strategy for detecting COVID-19 and variants. This strategy is adaptable to further viral evolution and brings RNA bioengineering center-stage.

Inflammation is a major underlying cause for obesity-associated metabolic diseases. Hence, anti-inflammatory dietary components may improve obesity-related disorders. We hypothesized that delta-tocotrienol (δT3), a member of the vitamin E family, reduces adiposity, insulin resistance and hepatic triglycerides through its anti-inflammatory properties. To test this hypothesis, C57BL/6J male mice were fed a high-fat diet (HF) with or without supplementation of δT3 (HF+δT3) at 400 mg/kg and 1600 mg/kg for 14 weeks, and they were compared to mice fed a low-fat diet (LF) or HF supplemented with metformin as an antidiabetic control. Glucose tolerance tests were administered 2 weeks prior to the end of treatments. Histology, quantitative polymerase chain reaction and protein analyses were performed to assess inflammation and fatty acid metabolism in adipose and liver tissues. Significant improvements in glucose tolerance, and reduced hepatic steatosis and serum triglycerides were observed in δT3-supplemented groups compared to the HF group. Body and fat pad weights were not significantly reduced in HF+δT3 groups; however, we observed smaller fat cell size and reduced macrophage infiltration in their adipose tissues compared to other groups. These changes were at least in part mechanistically explained by a reduction of mRNA and protein expression of proinflammatory adipokines and increased expression of anti-inflammatory adipokines in HF+δT3 mice. Moreover, δT3 dose-dependently increased markers of fatty acid oxidation and reduced markers of fatty acid synthesis in adipose tissue and liver. In conclusion, our studies suggest that δT3 may promote metabolically healthy obesity by reducing fat cell hypertrophy and decreasing inflammation in both liver and adipose tissue.

We examined and compared heavy metals bioaccumulation in Cyprinus carpio and Labeo rohita netted from Sardaryab, a tributary of River Kabul. By using atomic absorption spectrometry we assessed different organs including livers, gills, and muscles. Metals studied were chromium, iron, zinc, lead, and copper. Livers of both species showed higher concentrations of metals while muscles showed the least amount. Chromium and iron were the highly concentrated metals in the gills and livers of both species. A quantity of 0.154 ± 0.011, 0.199 ± 0.0079, and 0.024 ± 0.008 μg/g of chromium was found in the gills, livers, and muscles of Cyprinus carpio, respectively. Similarly, the gills, liver, and muscles of Labeo rohita contained 0.133 ± 0.008, 0.165 ± 0.01, and 0.019 ± 0.006 μg/g of Cr, respectively. Iron was highest in carp in the range of 0.086 ± 0.01 in gills and 0.067 ± 0.011 μg/g in muscles, comparatively. All the studied metals were found within the US recommended daily dietary allowances (RDA) limits; hence no immediate risk in their consumption for human was found. The data showed that Cyprinus carpio being omnivorous and bottom feeder stored higher concentrations of metals as compared to Labeo rohita.

Some studies have shown that maturation of dendritic cells (DCs) is modulated directly by pathogen components via pattern recognition receptors such as Toll-like receptors, but also by signal like CD40 ligand (CD40 L or CD154) mediated by activated T cells. Several reports indicate that invariant natural killer T (iNKT) cells up-regulate CD40 L upon stimulation and thereby induce activation and maturation of DCs through crosslink with CD40. Our previous findings indicated that iNKT cells promote Th2 cell responses through the induction of immunogenic maturation of lung DCs (LDCs) in the asthmatic murine, but its mechanism remains unclear. Therefore, we investigated the immunomodulatory effects of blockade of CD40 L using anti-CD40 L treatment on Th2 cell responses and immunogenic maturation of LDCs, and further analyzed whether these influences of blockade of CD40 L were related to lung iNKT cells using iNKT cell-deficient mice and the combination treatment of specific iNKT cell activation with anti-CD40 L treatment in murine models of asthma. Our findings showed that blockade of CD40 L using anti-CD40 L treatment attenuated Th2 cell responses in wild-type (WT) mice, but not in CD1d-deficient mice sensitized and challenged with ovalbumin (OVA) or house dust mite (HDM). Meanwhile, blockade of CD40 L down-regulated immunogenic maturation of LDCs in WT mice, but not in CD1d-deficient mice sensitized and challenged with OVA. Additionally, agonistic anti-CD40 treatment reversed the inhibitory effects of anti-CD40 L treatment on Th2 cell responses and LDC activation in an OVA-induced mouse model of asthma. Furthermore, LDCs from asthmatic mice treated with anti-CD40 L could significantly reduce the influence on Th2 cell responses in vivo and in vitro. Finally, α-Galactosylceramide plus anti-CD40 L treatment stimulated lung iNKT cells, but suppressed Th2 cell responses in the asthmatic mice. Taken together, our data raise an evidence that blockade of CD40 L attenuates Th2 cell responses through the inhibition of immunogenic maturation of LDCs, which may be at least partially related to lung iNKT cells in murine models of asthma.

The prevalence of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is increasing worldwide, concurrent with increased obesity. Thus, there is urgent need for research that can lead to effective NAFLD prevention/treatment strategies. Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 PUFAs), including eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), improve inflammation- and dyslipidemia-related metabolic disorders, however, mechanisms mediating the benefits of n-3 PUFAs in NAFLD treatment are less understood. We previously reported that EPA reversed obesity-induced hepatic steatosis in high-fat (HF)-fed B6 mice. Utilizing a combination of biochemical analyses of liver tissues from HF and HF-EPA-fed mice and a series of in vitro studies in tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-&alpha, )-stimulated HepG2 cells, we dissect the mechanistic effects of EPA in reducing hepatic steatosis, including the role of EPA-targeted microRNAs (miRNA). With EPA, hepatic lipid metabolism was improved in HF-EPA mice, as indicated by decreased protein and messenger RNA (mRNA) levels of fatty acid synthase (FASN) and acetyl-CoA carboxylase (Acaca) gene, and increased mRNA levels for the peroxisome proliferator activated receptor-&alpha, (Ppar&alpha, ), and carnitine palmitoyltransferase (Cpt) 1a and 2 genes in the HF-EPA mice. Additionally, inflammation was reduced, as shown by decreased tumor necrosis factor-alpha (Tnf&alpha, ) gene expression. Accordingly, EPA also significantly reduced FASN and ACACA mRNAs in human HepG2 cells. Glycolysis, estimated by extracellular acidification rate, was significantly reduced in HepG2 cells treated with EPA vs. vehicle. Furthermore, we identified several miRNAs that are regulated by EPA in mouse liver, including miR-19b-3p, miR-21a-5p, and others, which target lipid metabolism and inflammatory pathways. In conclusion, our findings provide novel mechanistic evidence for beneficial effects of EPA in NAFLD, through the identification of specific genes and miRNAs, which may be further exploited as future NAFLD therapies.

Objective: To design and characterize aerosol microparticles (MP) to provide sustained release of the water-soluble compound sulforhodamine B (SRB) and achieve effective aerosol dispersion. Significance: Modulating the release of water-soluble compounds remains a challenge in pulmonary drug delivery. Methods: SRB and water made up an aqueous solution, while acetalated dextran (Ac-Dex) and isopropyl alcohol made up an organic solution. The two solutions were mixed together, and the solution was spray dried to produce MP. MP were characterized for morphology, size, release kinetics, aerosol dispersion, and cellular interactions. Results: Ac-Dex MP exhibited corrugated morphology and aerodynamic diameters from 2.06 to 2.86 μm. MP deposited in all stages of a Next Generation Impactor, with >90% fine particle fraction. MP exhibited encapsulation efficiencies >129% with SRB loading values up to 16.7 μg SRB/mg MP. MP exhibited sustained release of SRB at pH 7 and fast release at pH 5. In vitro experiments showed minimal cytotoxicity, successful uptake of MP in epithelial cells, and no disruption to the integrity of epithelial monolayers. Conclusions: Ac-Dex MP systems demonstrated the ability to provide sustained the release of a water-soluble therapeutic in addition to effective aerosol dispersion for pulmonary applications.

Prostate development and function are regulated by androgens. Epithelial cell apoptosis in response to androgen deprivation is caspase-9-dependent and peaks at Day 3 after castration. However, isolated epithelial cells survive in the absence of androgens. Znf142 showed an on-off expression pattern in intraepithelial CD68-positive macrophages, with the on-phase at Day 3 after castration. Rats treated with gadolinium chloride to deplete macrophages showed a significant drop in apoptosis, suggesting a causal relationship between macrophages and epithelial cell apoptosis. Intraepithelial M1-polarization was also limited to Day 3, and the inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) knockout mice showed significantly less apoptosis than wild-type controls. The epithelial cells showed focal DNA double-strand breaks (DSB), 8-oxoguanine, and protein tyrosine-nitrosylation, fingerprints of exposure to peroxinitrite. Cultured epithelial cells induced M1-polarization and showed focal DSB and underwent apoptosis. The same phenomena were reproduced in LNCaP cells cocultured with Raw 264.7 macrophages. In conclusion, the M1 142 -macrophage (named after Znf142) attack causes activation of the intrinsic apoptosis pathway in epithelial cells after castration.

Dopamine is a neurotransmitter distributed in the central and peripheral nervous system, its lower or higher production results in various pathological disorders. Various nanoparticles systems have been used in the sensing of dopamine while in the present work ionic liquid tuned titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO2 NPs) was first time evaluated in colorimetric detection of dopamine. TiO2 NPs have been synthesized by hydrothermal process and analyzed by different characterization techniques such as FTIR, XRD, and SEM that confirmed the desired synthesis. 1-H-3-methylimidazolium acetate (ionic liquid-a known conducting species) was prepared by the neutralization method. Colorimetric change in color from pinkish grey to reddish-brown with an increase in dopamine concentration was analyzed using a UV–Vis spectrophotometer. To optimize the protocol various parameters like nanoparticles loading, conc. of dopamine etc were optimized. The quantification and limit of detection for the proposed sensor were calculated as 2.55 × 10−7 M and 7.67 × 10−8 M respectively, and 1 × 10−8–3.6 × 10−6 M linear range with an R2 value of 0.9998. At an optimum temperature of 25 °C and at pH 12 the proposed sensor response time was just 4 min for dopamine detection. The proposed sensor has been also used for the dopamine detection in physiological solution. The proposed sensor showed good sensitivity and selectivity for dopamine sensing.

Biodiesel is a promising alternative fuel for compression ignition (CI) engine, but the nitrogen oxide (NOx) liability associated with it is a major challenge. NOx emissions are affected by both engine technology and fuel properties. Experimental studies were conducted on an unmodified heavy-duty direct injection diesel engine to analyze the effect of fuel properties such as cetane number (CN), oxygen content, fuel density, and engine operating variables (speed and load) on NOx emissions. Test results revealed that NOx concentration is directly proportional to engine load and to biodiesel percentage in blends, and is inversely related to engine speed. Fuel-bound oxygen in the blended fuels are mainly responsible for the higher NOx. An empirical correlation was developed to predict NOx concentration as a function of CN, oxygen content, fuel density, speed, and load. Experimental and predicted values of NOx emission concentrations for two blends, BA25 and BA50 (25% and 50% microalgae biodiesel blended with diesel), at 2205 rpm and 100% load are 723.19 and 722.94 ppm, and 749.89 and 791.12 ppm, respectively. The developed correlation will be useful in estimating the NOx emissions of a CI engine fueled with various other oxygenated biofuels at different speeds and loads. © 2016 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 2016

In the present study, a new series of 2-(2′-pyridyl) benzimidazole derivatives 1–11 were resynthesized and evaluated for analgesic activity. The 2-(2′-pyridyl) benzimidazole was quaternized at its nitrogen atom in the ring with various substituted and unsubstituted phenacyl halides. As a result, eleven novel derivatives were synthesized. The structures of these new synthetic derivatives of 2-(2′-pyridyl) benzimidazole were confirmed by using different spectroscopic techniques i.e., UV/Visible, IR, 1HNMR and Mass spectroscopy. Percentage of carbon, hydrogen and nitrogen was also determined by elemental analysis. All the synthetic compounds showed significant analgesic activity with dose-dependent manner.

In this study the waste fish scales (FS) were dissolved in 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium acetate ionic liquid to obtain a valuable product of hydroxyapatite (HAp). The HAp was obtained in the yield of 32 ± 2%. The obtained HAp was characterized using Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), Powder X-rays Diffraction (PXRD), Thermal Gravimetric Analysis (TGA), Field Emission Scanning Microscopy (FE-SEM), Energy Dispersive X-rays spectroscopy (EDX), and Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET). The results of FTIR and XRD showed the characteristic peaks of the HAp. The thermal degradation temperature of the extracted HAp was relatively high. Furthermore, low weight loss was measured which confirmed the removal of organic part of FS during ionic liquid treatment. The FE-SEM result showed the particles with different morphologies and EDX analysis showed a Ca/P ratio of 1.60 for the extracted HAp. The biocompatibility of the extracted HAp was assessed through MTT cell viability assay using known Human Embryonic Kidney 293 cells (HEK cells) and epidermoid carcinoma cells (A431 cells).