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In this work, we developed a high-efficiency CIGSSe/perovskite photovoltaic cell with a combination of Mg-doped CeO 2 buffer layer nanomaterials. Initially, Mg-doped CeO 2 nanomaterials synthesized by the co-precipitation technique. The phase formation and hexagonal structure of CeMgO 2 nanomaterial have been confirmed by X-ray diffraction (XRD). The XRD pattern has also been examined the lattice parameters constant of the pure and Mg-doped CeO 2 nanomaterials. The morphology, average particle size, and surface qualities have been seen in scanning electron microscope (SEM) images. The optical properties are calculated using ultraviolet–visible (UV–Vis) spectrophotometry, and the electrical properties are calculated using Hall Effect measurements. The optical properties showed that the CeMgO 2 nanomaterials' transmittance in the visible section increased from 89 to 98%, while their absorbance and reflectance decreased. Similarly, the optical energy bandgap improved from 3.578 to 3.865 eV, but the Urbach energy decreased from 0.251 to 0.115 eV with the change in the Mg-compositions. The rise in Mg-compositions causes an increase in defect quantity, which reduces DC and AC conductivity. The deviations of defect concentration with Mg-compositions were also observed in Photoluminescence (PL) element analysis. Further, with the use of experimental properties of Mg-doped CeO 2 nanomaterials, we proposed a high-efficiency, eco-friendly, and flexible (SLG/Al/ZnMgO:Al/CeMgO 2 /CIGSSe/perovskite(MA-FA-Pb-Br-I)/Mo) solar cell. The proposed solar cell would absorb the bulk of ultraviolet (UV) light and improve photovoltaic parameters such as external quantum efficiency (EQE), efficiency (η) = 29.63%, short-circuit current density (J SC) = 40.25 mA/cm2, open-circuit voltage (V OC) = 855.6 mV, and fill factor (FF) = 86.02%. • In this paper, we have synthesized Mg-doped CeO 2 nanomaterials using the co-precipitation technique. • Further, by use of XRD, SEM, UV, PL, and Hall element analysis, we found structural, optical, and electrical properties. • The experimental data of CeMgO 2 nanomaterials obtained in this characterization was used to design a proposed solar cell. • Optimization of thickness and alignment of CeMgO 2 , CIGSSe, and perovskite E g , the proposed device give highest performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Performance of the conventional (ZnMgO:Al/ZnMgO/CIGSSe) photovoltaic device has been enhanced by using novel magnesium-doped cerium oxide (Ce 1 – B Mg B O 2) as a buffer and perovskite as a hole transport layer (HTL) material. At the beginning of this paper, three experimental photovoltaic devices having an efficiency of 19.8%, 19.8% and 20% have been simulated and verified using the AFORS-HET simulation tool. Later, a low resistivity (ρ), wide energy bandgap (E g), and minimum absorption coefficient (α) Ce 1 – B Mg B O 2 material is applied to the conventional device instead of the ZnMgO buffer layer. As a result, the efficiency of the proposed-1 photovoltaic device has been enhanced (20–26.59%). Due to a deficiency of HTL material, the proposed-1 device cannot properly suppress the photogenerated minority carrier recombination losses. Further, perovskite as a HTL material is applied between the CIGSSe/Mo back layers in the proposed-1 device. Therefore, the proposed-2 device instantly reduces the recombination losses and enhances the efficiency (28.93%) and EQE. Improvement of parameters of a(Al/Ni)/MgF 2 /ZnMgO:Al/ZnMgO/CIGSSe/perovskite/Mo solar cell. The main change in comparison to conventional solar cell is an employment of unique CeMgO 2 buffer layer and perovskite as a HTL layer. The proposed structure improved the V OC = 870.2 mV, J SC = 40.01 mA/cm2 , FF = 83.08, η = 28.93%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper evaluates the progress of UP agriculture since 1980s. Cobb Douglas Production Function approach is used to analyse the determinants of agricultural productivity from the periods 1986-87 to 2007-08, i.e., during pre and post-WTO1 periods. The estimation of the aggregate agricultural production function with both slope and year dummies indicates that UP agriculture sector is in Decreasing Returns to Scale phase after the WTO agreements, reflecting that the input availability is under strain during the same period. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

- The performance of the ZnMgO/CIGSSe heterojunction solar cell is addressed in this article. Different structures are designed using different materials to improve their parameters. The AFORS-HET simulation tool is used here to justify the photovoltaic results of the reference SLG/(Ni/Al)/ZnMgO:Al/ZnMgO/CIGSSe/Mo solar cell. Later, cuprous oxide (Cu 2 O) is added to construct a single graded solar cell as an electron reflected-hole transport layer (ER-HTL) between the back metal contact and the CIGSSe layer in the reference device. Furthermore, in the single-graded device, magnesium doped cerium oxide (CeMgO 2) as a hole reflected-electron transport layer (HR-ETL) is put between the ZnMgO buffer and the CIGSSe absorber layer to make a double-graded proposed solar cell. The photogenerated recombination losses are get diminished by this double-graded proposed SLG/(Ni/Al)/ZnMgO:Al/ZnMgO/CeMgO 2 /CIGSSe/Cu 2 O/Mo solar cell and improved the photovoltaic parameters of the cell such as V OC = 858.3 mV, J SC = 40.18 mA/cm2, FF = 83.42% and η = 28.77%. • Improvement of the electrical and optical parameters of aSLG/(Ni/Al)/ZnMgO:Al/ZnMgO/CeMgO 2 /CIGSSe/Cu 2 O/Mo thin-film heterojunction solar cells have been numerically investigated with the help of the AFORS-HET simulation tool. • By optimizing cell parameters, the efficiency and EQE of the proposed solar cell has been improved by 8.77%. • The main change in comparison to conventional solar cell by using single and double grading technique with the used of Cu 2 O ER-HTL and CeMgO 2 as a HR-ETL materials. • With the proposed structure, we have also achieved the improvement in efficiency by 28.77%.. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Intermittent fasting (IF) is a strategy based on calorie restriction intervention. • Alternate day fasting and time-restricted feeding methods show improved status of biomarkers of redox homeostasis in rats. • TRF and ADF fasting methods are equally competent in reducing oxidative-stress mediated damages. • Time restricted feeding may be considered an overall equally good strategy compared to alternate day fasting. Intermittent fasting (IF) is a non-pharmacological dietary approach for intervening into aging in different organisms. We evaluated the efficacy of time restricted dietary regimen and alternate-day fasting in rats by measuring redox parameters which are frequently used as signature biomarkers of aging. Wistar rats (8 months) were divided into three groups of six rats each. Group I: Control; Group II: Time-restricted feeding (TRF) (fed and fasted at a ratio of 16:8 h respectively) and Group III. Alternate day feeding (ADF) (fed and fasted on alternate days), for a period of 1 month. The biomarkers of antioxidant defense and oxidative stress: FRAP, GSH, PMRS, ROS, AGE, MDA, PCO, AOPP, TNF-α and IL-6, were determined. Our results suggest that, based on predominant aging biomarkers, TRF has a similar effect on rats compared with ADF evaluated in terms of redox homeostasis. Observed results defend our purpose that the ADF and TRF methods are reliable dietary restriction regimens and subsequently improve the metabolic profile and redox homeostasis in rats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Caloric restriction is one of the best anti-aging strategies. • The possible CRM effect of low dose 2 Deoxy D Glucose on the brain in an accelerated senescent model of rats was studied. • 2- DG caused an increase in ROS. • Elevated ROS induces a mitohormetic effect which elevates antioxidant defence. Aging induces significant molecular alteration in brain morphology. Glycolytic inhibitor 2-Deoxy- d -glucose (2-DG) is considered to act as a caloric restriction mimetic (CRM) but it is correlated with elevated mortality risk in rats at persistent high dosage. In young and d -galactose induced accelerated senescent rat aging models, we tested a persistent low-dose dietary 2-DG administration and evaluated various aging biomarkers in brain tissue. A significant increase in reactive oxygen species (ROS) was observed in 2-DG treated (both young and accelerated senescent rat model). Increased Ferric reducing antioxidant potential (FRAP) value, Superoxide Dismutase (SOD), Catalase (CAT), and activity of mitochondrial complexes I and IV was observed. There was also significant improvements in the autophagy expression of genes (Beclin-1 and Atg-3) after 2- DG treatment. We propose that 2-DG induces a mitohormetic effect through elevation of ROS which reinforces defensive mechanism(s) through increased FRAP, SOD, CAT and autophagy gene expression. Our observations indicate that a consistently low dose 2-DG could be a valuable CRM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we synthesized manganese-substituted cerium oxide (CeMnO 2) electron transport layer (ETL) nanomaterial via the co-precipitation method using various Mn compositions. These variations resulted in significant changes in the physical, optical, electronic, and dielectric properties of the CeMnO 2 nanoparticles. The hexagonal structure of the CeMnO 2 nanoparticles was validated using X-ray diffraction (XRD). Their morphology and surface characteristics were analyzed through scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Ultraviolet–visible (UV–Vis) spectrophotometry was utilized to explore their optoelectronic properties, revealing an increase in transmittance from 75 % to 90 %, along with corresponding decreases in reflectance and absorbance. Moreover, the energy bandgap (E g) increased from 3.68 to 3.86 eV, while the Urbach energy (E U) rose from 0.18 to 0.6 eV with varying Mn compositions. The increase in defect quantity is associated with the reduction in both DC and AC conductivity observed with higher Mn compositions. Using a Hall effect instrument, we measured the sheet resistance, Hall mobility (ranging from 35.20 to 62.32 cm2 V−1 s−1), and carrier concentration (from 8.71 × 1018 to 1.22 × 1020 cm−3) of the CeMnO 2 nanomaterials. The second stage focused on developing a high-efficiency (CeMnO 2 /MAFASnBrI 3 /BaSi 2) solar cell based on experimental data from the CeMnO 2 ETL and BaSi 2 HTL materials. After multiple optimizations of the proposed solar cells, we achieved a 27.73 % efficiency. [Display omitted] • The goal of this research is to make a high-efficiency MAFASnBrI 3 photovoltaic cell using experimental data of Mn-doped CeO 2 ETL and BaSi 2 HTL nanomaterials. • In the beginning of the work, we synthesized both CeMnO 2 ETL nanomaterials using co-precipitation approaches. • Further, with the use of XRD, SEM, UV, PL, and Hall element analysis, we found the structural, optical, and electrical properties at 0–15 % CeMnO 2. • The obtained opto-electrical properties of ETL nanomaterials apply to making a high-efficiency (SLG/Au/CeMnO 2 /MAFASnBrI/Au) photovoltaic cell. • Furthermore, through optimization of cell thickness and synchronization of CeMnO 2 , perovskite and BaSi 2 band energy, the proposed solar cell gives the highest performance in terms of V OC (1343 mV), J SC (23.62 mA/cm2), FF (87.37 %), and efficiency (27.73 %), which is better than existing solar cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aging is a multifaceted and progressive physiological change of the organism categorized by the accumulation of deteriorating processes, which ultimately compromise the biological functions. The objective of this study was to investigate the anti-aging potential of berberine (BBR) in D-galactose (D-Gal) induced aging in rat models. In this study, male Wistar rats were divided into four groups: The control group was given only vehicle, the BBR group was treated with berberine orally, the D-Gal group was treated with D-galactose subcutaneously and the BBR + D-Gal group was treated with D-galactose and berberine simultaneously. D-galactose exposure elevated the pro-oxidants such as malondialdehyde (MDA) level, protein carbonyl and advanced oxidation protein products (AOPP) in the brain. It decreased the anti-oxidants such as reduced glutathione (GSH) and ferric reducing antioxidant potential (FRAP) in the brain. D-galactose treatment also reduced the mitochondrial complexes (I, II, III and IV) activities and elevated the inflammatory markers such as interleukine-6 (IL-6), tumor necrosis factor- α (TNF-α) and C-reactive protein (CRP). The mRNA expressions of IL-6 and TNF-α in the brain were upregulated following D-galactose exposure. Berberine co-treatment in D-galactose induced aging rat model prevented the alteration of pro-oxidant and anti-oxidant in the brain. Berberine treatment restored the mitochondrial complex activities in the brain and also normalized the inflammatory markers. Based on these findings we conclude that berberine treatment has the potential to mitigate brain aging in rats via stabilizing the redox equilibrium and neuroinflammation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this article, a multi-period optimal scheduling framework considering load priorities is proposed to optimize the operation of an islanded smart distribution network. The main idea of this work is to provide sufficient power supply to high priority loads even during limited generation periods while also assuring network security and achieving optimal generation schedules for distributed energy resources and optimal charging/discharging schedules for battery bank (BB). The proposed scheduling framework is formulated as a multi-objective optimization problem in four different operating cases, over multiple time periods considering conventional generation sources, renewable energy sources, battery bank (BB), and various loads. Loads comprise hospitals, public consumer loads, industries, education centers, and domestic loads. The usual objectives of optimal scheduling problems in the literature are minimizing network power loss, total cost of generation, and maximizing customer benefit; however, less attention has been paid to distribution network security. Therefore, in this article, voltage stability index is considered as one of the objective functions along with network power loss, total cost of generation, and total load curtailment. The proposed scheduling problem is solved using Non-dominated Sorting Genetic Algorithm-II (NSGA-II), and its performance is evaluated on the modified IEEE 34 bus system. The accuracy of results is verified by comparing with the results obtained by solving the proposed scheduling problem using Python optimization modeling objects (Pyomo) software with interior point optimizer as the solver. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, the thickness and doping concentrations of the double buffer cell-based conventional CIGSSe solar cells are optimized, and alignment of the energy band of the optimized solar cell (ZnMgO/CIGSSe) is carried out, thus obtaining an increase in efficiency from 23.35 % to 27.88 %. Further, a new design is proposed of low cost, low resistivity, minimum absorption coefficient, tunable energy bandgap (3.6–4.44 eV) with tin-doped manganese oxide Sn 1−x Mn x O 2 material (x = 0.5) as a window layer in conventional solar cell design. The thin-film solar cell efficiency has improved from 23.35 % to 29.05 % by aligning the energy bandgap with an optimized thickness and doping concentration. The proposed Sn 1−x Mn x O 2 window layer-based thin-film solar cell is more convenient in instantly absorbing the maximum blue light with reduced recombination loss, increased efficiency and external quantum efficiency. The simulated parameters of the conventional model are compared and validated with the existing conventional solar cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The burning of agricultural straw is a pressing environmental issue, and identifying effective strategies for the rational utilization of straw resources is decisive for achieving sustainable development. Owing to its high carbon content and exceptional stability, straw biochar produced via pyrolysis has emerged as a key focus in multidisciplinary research. However, the efficacy of biochar in mitigating nitrous oxide (N 2 O) emissions from paddy soils is not consistent. A 2-year field experiment was conducted and investigated the impact of biochar derived from two feedstocks (rice straw and wheat straw, pyrolyzed at 450 °C) on N 2 O emissions, global warming potential (GWP), greenhouse gas intensity (GHGI), nitrogen use efficiency (NUE), crop yield, and soil quality. The static chamber technique was used for collecting N 2 O gas samples, and concentrations were analyzed through gas chromatography methods. The treatment combinations included BR0 (control), BR1 (NPK at the recommended dose, 120:60:40 kg ha -1 ), BR2 (wheat straw biochar, 5 t ha -1 ), and BR3 (rice straw biochar, 5 t ha -1 ). The results exhibited that cumulative N 2 O emissions from BR2 and BR3 treatments decreased by 10.55% and 13.75% respectively, compared to BR1. Lower GWP and GHGI were observed under both biochar treatments compared with BR1. The highest rice grain yield (3.48 Mg ha -1 ) and NUE (76.72%) were recorded from BR3, which also exhibited the lowest yield-scaled N 2 O emission. We observed positive correlations between soil nitrate, ammonia and water-filled pore spaces, while NUE showed negative correlations with N 2 O emissions. Significant (p < 0.05) improvements in soil quality were also detected in both the biochar treated plots, indicated by increased soil pH, water holding capacity, porosity, and nutrient contents. Overall, the results suggest that applying biochar at a rate of 5 t ha -1 in paddy soil is a viable nutrient management strategy with the potential to reduce reliance on inorganic fertilizers, mitigate N 2 O emissions, and contribute to sustainable food production., (© 2024. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer-Verlag GmbH Germany, part of Springer Nature.)

In extant biology, large and complex enzymes employ low molecular weight cofactors such as dihydronicotinamides as efficient hydride transfer agents and electron carriers for the regulation of critical metabolic processes. In absence of complex contemporary enzymes, these molecular cofactors are generally inefficient to facilitate any reactions on their own. Herein, we report short peptide-based amyloid nanotubes featuring exposed arrays of cationic and hydrophobic residues that can bind small molecular weak hydride transfer agents (NaBH 4 ) to facilitate efficient reduction of ester substrates in water. In addition, the paracrystalline amyloid phases loaded with borohydrides demonstrate recyclability, substrate selectivity and controlled reduction and surpass the capabilities of standard reducing agent such as LiAlH 4 . The amyloid microphases and their collaboration with small molecular cofactors foreshadow the important roles that short peptide-based assemblies might have played in the emergence of protometabolism and biopolymer evolution in prebiotic earth., (© 2024. The Author(s).)

Bending analysis was carried out for a laminated composite porous plate due to sinusoidal loading with various boundary conditions using improved third-order theory. Zero transverse shear stress provided a free surface at the top and bottom of the plate. Also, the authors developed a finite element formulation based on improved third-order shear deformation theory. To circumvent the C1 continuity requirement associated with improved third-order shear deformation theory, a C0 FE formulation was developed by replacing the out-of-plane derivatives with independent field variables. An in-house FORTRAN code was developed for the bending analysis of the laminated porous plate considering a 2D finite element model. The complete thickness of the plate was covered with different porosity patterns. The impacts of various modulus ratios, boundary conditions, thickness ratios, fiber orientation angles, and material parameters were examined for laminated porous plates. There was an 18.8% reduction in deflection in the case of the square plate as compared to rectangular plates, with a porosity value of 0.1, a thickness ratio of 10, and an orientation angle of 0°/90°/0°. According to the current research, adding porosities causes a relatively greater change in deflection rather than stress, thereby aiding in the development of a lightweight structure.

Background and Aim: Allium sativum L. has been used medicinally and traditionally since antiquity. This study sought to examine the Allium sativum ethanolic extract (ASEE) in inducing apoptosis in human triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) MDA-MB-231 cells and the molecular interactions of the identified components with cell death markers using in silico method., Experimental Procedure: Cytotoxicity of ASEE was tested on MCF-7, MDA-MB-231, and Normal Vero cells. The ROS production, apoptosis, MMP, and cell cycle study were conducted utilizing flow cytometer, and western blot was also performed for protein expression analysis. ASEE was phytochemi c ally characterized by the HPLC while AutoDock Vina and iGEMDOCK tools investigated in-silico binding interactions., Results: The HPLC method identified two active organosulfur chemicals, allicin and alliin, in ASEE. MTT test revealed significant (p < 0.05) inhibition of breast cancer cells proliferation. The inhibitory effect of ASEE was more pronounced in MDA-MB-231 cells than in MCF-7 cells, however, no substantial cytotoxicity was seen in normal Vero cells. TNBC cells treated with high concentrations of ASEE were found in the late apoptotic stage and exhibited an increase in ROS level and a reduction in MMP. ASEE exposure increased the percentage of cells in the G2/M phase. ASEE upregulated the p53 and Bax proteins while downregulated the Bcl-2, p-Akt, and p-p38 proteins. Allicin and alliin compounds had strong binding affinity with targeted proteins of breast cancer, and both compounds also showed good pharmacokinetics and druglikeness properties., Conclusion: ASEE could be useful in the treatment of human triple-negative breast cancer without any safety risks., Competing Interests: The authors declare no conflicts of interest., (© 2024 Center for Food and Biomolecules, National Taiwan University. Production and hosting by Elsevier Taiwan LLC.)

In this study, we have examined the effect of hesperidin on rats fed on an experimental high-fat diet. Male Wistar rats were given a high-fat diet orally for one month for developing an HFD (High fat- diet) model. Rats were also supplemented with hesperidin (100 mg/kg body weight) for one month. We determined serum LDL (Low-density lipoprotein) oxidation, Paraoxonase-1 (PON-1) activity, and histopathological profile of the liver. Inflammatory cytokines levels were also measured in serum. HFD induced significant changes in LDL oxidation and PON-1 activity. Liver tissue histopathology and gene expression of inflammatory markers (Il-6(Interleukin-6), TNF- alpha (Tumor necrosis factor alpha), NF-KB (Nuclear factor kappa B) show that significant changes occur in the hyperlipidemic model of rats. We also show that hesperidin can effectively improve plasma antioxidant, LDL oxidation, and inflammatory cytokine expression in rats already subjected to hyperlipidemic stress. We conclude that hesperidin may protect the liver from oxidative stress by improving hepatic function., Competing Interests: Conflict of interestThe authors of this manuscript have no conflict of interest., (© The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Association of Clinical Biochemists of India 2023. Springer Nature or its licensor (e.g. a society or other partner) holds exclusive rights to this article under a publishing agreement with the author(s) or other rightsholder(s); author self-archiving of the accepted manuscript version of this article is solely governed by the terms of such publishing agreement and applicable law.)

Research Background: There is considerable diversity in newly developed pummelo × sweet orange citrus hybrids. Most hybrids showed lower peel thickness and high juice yield but there is a lack of information on fruit quality parameters and molecular characterization. Therefore, the aim of the current study is to determine the content of antioxidants and properties of the fresh juice of 24 new pummelo × sweet orange citrus hybrids ( Citrus maxima [Burm. f.] Osbeck × Citrus sinensis [L.] Osbeck) and the parental genotypes along with molecular characteristics determined using acidity specific markers., Experimental Approach: The correlation and estimate of inheritance of the fruit juice properties: ascorbic acid, total phenol, total flavonoid, total antioxidant, total soluble solid and sugar contents, pH, titratable acidity, along with sensory evaluation was performed. Molecular characterization of these hybrids was carried out using de novo generated acidity specific simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers., Results and Conclusions: The main constituents of the fruit juice of pummelo × sweet orange hybrids were observed in the range of w (ascorbic acid)=40.00-58.13 mg/100 g, total phenols expressed as gallic acid equivalents w (GAE)=40.67-107.33 mg/100 g, total antioxidants expressed as Trolox equivalents b (Trolox)=2.03-5.49 µmol/g, total flavonoids expressed as quercetin equivalents w (QE)=23.67-59.33 mg/100 g, along with other properties: total soluble solids=7.33-11.33 %, w (total sugar)=2.10-5.76 %, w (reducing sugar)=1.69-2.78 %, w (non-reducing sugar)=0.39-3.17 % and titratable acidity 1.00-2.11 %. The above parameters differed significantly in the fruit juice of the evaluated pummelo × sweet orange hybrids. Considering these parameters, the hybrids SCSH 17-9, SCSH 13-13, SCSH 11-15 and SCSH 3-15 had superior antioxidant properties in terms of these parameters. A higher heritability (≥80 %) was also observed for all juice properties. Molecular characterization of pummelo × sweet orange hybrids showed that >50 % of the hybrids were grouped with medium acidity parents. Both molecular and biochemical parameter-based clustering showed that interspecific hybrids exhibit transgressive segregation with increased antioxidants that help alleviate the health problems., Novelty and Scientific Contribution: These newly developed pummelo × sweet orange citrus hybrids are a valuable source of high-quality antioxidants for a healthy diet. The identification of trait markers that enable selection at the seedling stage is of great benefit to citrus breeders, as the characteristic features of a mature tree are not yet visible at the juvenile stage., Competing Interests: CONFLICT OF INTEREST The authors declare that they have no conflict of interest., (Authors.)

Background: Cardiovascular and their associated disease (CVD) is a leading cause of death worldwide, in developed and developing countries, and its prevalence has increased over the past few decades, due to changes in the lifestyle of people. Biomarkers are important tools for diagnosing, analyzing, and providing evidence of pathological conditions of CVD and their associated diseases., Methods: This study reviews historical cardiovascular biomarkers used to diagnose various diseases, their uses, and limitations, as well as the importance of new and emerging biomarkers., Conclusion: sST2, GDF-15, CD-40, IL-6, and Micro-RNA. Initial studies of the future of cardiac biomarkers are promising, but more research is needed to demonstrate that they are more effective biomarkers of risk factors for CVD development. They also lack the analytical foundation needed for adoption in the medical industry. It is also necessary to determine whether these biomarkers can be used for diagnosis., (© 2024. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Nature B.V.)

Monosodium glutamate (MSG) is a widely used flavour enhancer. A daily intake of MSG at high dosage (2000-4000 mg/kg body weight) is reported to be toxic to humans and experimental animals. The present study aims to investigate the toxic effect of oral administration of MSG at low concentrations (30 and 100 mg/kg body weight) by evaluating biochemical parameters of oxidative stress and inflammation in blood; expression of neuroinflammatory gene and histopathological changes in brain on male Wistar rats. The administration of MSG significantly increases serum level of fasting glucose, insulin, triglycerides, total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein and decrease level of high-density lipoprotein. Significant low level of FRAP, GSH, SOD, CAT and higher level of MDA, PCO, AOPP, PMRS, NO, CRP, IL-6, TNF-α confirms substantial oxidative stress followed by inflammation after 100 mg MSG treatment. RT-PCR figure shows significant expression of neuroinflammatory gene IL-6 and TNF-α and histopathological examination revealed severe neurodegeneration in hippocampus (CA1 and CA3) and cerebral cortex region of brain at 100 mg MSG treatment. Our result provides evidence that MSG administration at 30 mg does not impose toxicity, however at 100 mg/kg body weight, which is considered a low dose, there is significant toxic effects and may be detrimental to health., Competing Interests: Conflict of interestThe authors of this manuscript have no conflict to interest., (© The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Association of Clinical Biochemists of India 2022. Springer Nature or its licensor holds exclusive rights to this article under a publishing agreement with the author(s) or other rightsholder(s); author self-archiving of the accepted manuscript version of this article is solely governed by the terms of such publishing agreement and applicable law.)

Excessive dietary fat is mainly responsible for metabolic diseases including atherosclerosis and cardiovascular disease. We have evaluated the role of Vitamin C in an experimental hyperlipidemic model of rats (male Wistar rat 12-16 months). The hyperlipidemic model of the rat was created by treatment with an atherogenic suspension: cholesterol, cholic acid, and coconut oil, for 30 days once daily, and supplemented with Vitamin C (Ascorbic acid) doses of 0.5 g/kg body weight (orally) for the 30 days once daily. Bodyweight, fasting glucose, triglyceride, cholesterol, ROS (Reactive oxygen species), MDA (Malondialdehyde), FRAP (Ferric reducing the ability of plasma), GSH (Reduced glutathione), PCO (Protein carbonyl), PON-1(Paraoxonase-1), AGE (Advanced glycation end product), PMRS (Plasma membrane reduced system), and inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α and IL-6) were estimated in blood and plasma. Our result shows that oxidative stress, and inflammatory markers, were increased in the HFD-treated group of rats. Vitamin C supplementation protected against lipidemic and, oxidative stress. We conclude that Vitamin C may be useful in maintaining cellular redox balance and protecting against lipidemic stress., Competing Interests: Conflict of InterestThe authors of this manuscript have no conflict of interest., (© The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Association of Clinical Biochemists of India 2022. Springer Nature or its licensor holds exclusive rights to this article under a publishing agreement with the author(s) or other rightsholder(s); author self-archiving of the accepted manuscript version of this article is solely governed by the terms of such publishing agreement and applicable law.)

Acarbose (ACA), a well-studied and effective inhibitor of α-amylase and α-glucosidase, is a postprandial-acting antidiabetic medicine. The membrane of the erythrocyte is an excellent tool for analyzing different physiological and biochemical activities since it experiences a range of metabolic alterations throughout aging. It is uncertain if ACA modulates erythrocyte membrane activities in an age-dependent manner. As a result, the current study was conducted to explore the influence of ACA on age-dependent deteriorated functions of transporters/exchangers, disrupted levels of various biomarkers such as lipid hydroperoxides (LHs), protein carbonyl (PCO), sialic acid (SA), total thiol (-SH), and erythrocyte membrane osmotic fragility. In addition to a concurrent increase in Na + /H + exchanger activity and concentration of LH, PCO, and osmotic fragility, we also detected a considerable decrease in membrane-linked activities of Ca 2+ -ATPase (PMCA) and Na + /K + -ATPase (NKA), as well as concentrations of SA and -SH in old-aged rats. The aging-induced impairment of the activities of membrane-bound ATPases and the changed levels of redox biomarkers were shown to be effectively restored by ACA treatment.

Aging is a natural phenomenon, which is characterised by progressive physiological changes at cellular and organ level. During aging, the defence mechanism of an organism declines over the period of time. The aim of this study was to investigate the biological efficacy of berberine in D-galactose induced aging rat models. For the study, rats were divided into four groups: Control received only vehicle, BBR received berberine orally, D-Gal received D-galactose subcutaneously and BBR + D-Gal received D-galactose and berberine simultaneously. D-galactose treatment increased the pro-oxidants such as malondialdehyde (MDA) level, protein carbonyl, plasma membrane redox system (PMRS) and advanced oxidation protein products (AOPP) in the erythrocytes or plasma. It reduced the anti-oxidant level such as reduced glutathione (GSH), ferric reducing ability of plasma (FRAP), plasma thiols, sialic acid and membrane transporters like Na + /K + ATPase and Ca 2+ ATPase activity in the erythrocyte membrane. Co-treatment of berberine in D-galactose induced aging rat models restored pro-oxidants and anti-oxidants in erythrocytes. Berberine also restored the activity of Na + /K + ATPase and Ca 2+ ATPase in the erythrocyte membrane. On the basis of these findings, we suggest that berberine treatment could attenuate erythrocyte aging in rats through stabilisation of the redox equilibrium., (© 2023 Walter de Gruyter GmbH, Berlin/Boston.)

Increasing age is the single largest risk factor for a variety of chronic illnesses. As a result, improving the capability to target the aging process leads to an increased health span. A lack of appropriate glucoregulatory control is a recurring issue associated with aging and chronic illness, even though many longevity therapies result in the preservation of glucoregulatory control. In this study, we suggest that targeting glucose metabolism to improve regulatory control can help slow the aging process. Male Wistar rats, both young (age 4 months) and old (age 24 months), were given acarbose (ACA) (30 mg/kg b.w.) for 6 weeks. An array of oxidative stress indicators was assessed after the treatment period, including plasma antioxidant capacity as determined by the ferric reducing ability of plasma (FRAP), reactive oxygen species (ROS), lipid peroxidation (malondialdehyde [MDA]), reduced glutathione (GSH), total plasma thiol (sulfhydryl [SH]), plasma membrane redox system (PMRS), protein carbonyl (PCO), advanced oxidation protein products (AOPPs), advanced glycation end products (AGEs), and sialic acid (SA) in control and treated groups. When compared with controls, ACA administration increased FRAP, GSH, SH, and PMRS activities in both age groups. The treated groups, on the contrary, showed substantial decreases in ROS, MDA, PCO, AOPP, AGE, and SA levels. The effect of ACA on almost all parameters was more evident in old-age rats. ACA significantly increased PMRS activity in young rats; here the effect was less prominent in old rats. Our data support the restoration of antioxidant levels in older rats after short-term ACA treatment. The findings corroborate the potential role of ACA as a putative calorie restriction mimetic.

Rapid and sustained condensate droplet departure from a surface is key toward achieving high heat-transfer rates in condensation, a physical process critical to a broad range of industrial and societal applications. Despite the progress in enhancing condensation heat transfer through inducing its dropwise mode with hydrophobic materials, sophisticated surface engineering methods that can lead to further enhancement of heat transfer are still highly desirable. Here, by employing a three-dimensional, multiphase computational approach, we present an effective out-of-plane biphilic surface topography, which reveals an unexplored capillarity-driven departure mechanism of condensate droplets. This texture consists of biphilic diverging microcavities wherein a matrix of small hydrophilic spots is placed at their bottom, that is, among the pyramid-shaped, superhydrophobic microtextures forming the cavities. We show that an optimal combination of the hydrophilic spots and the angles of the pyramidal structures can achieve high deformational stretching of the droplets, eventually realizing an impressive "slingshot-like" droplet ejection process from the texture. Such a droplet departure mechanism has the potential to reduce the droplet ejection volume and thus enhance the overall condensation efficiency, compared to coalescence-initiated droplet jumping from other state-of-the-art surfaces. Simulations have shown that optimal pyramid-shaped biphilic microstructures can provoke droplet self-ejection at low volumes, up to 56% lower than superhydrophobic straight pillars, revealing a promising new surface microtexture design strategy toward enhancing the condensation heat-transfer efficiency and water harvesting capabilities.

Age associated neurodegenerative changes are acknowledged to play a causative role in a majority of neurological diseases that accompany aging in organisms. To alleviate the deteriorative effects of aging in the brain, we investigated the effects oftwo types of intermittent fasting (IF) methods: alternate day fasting (ADF) and time- restricted feeding (TRF) in young (3 months) and old (24 months) in male Wistar rats comparing the results with age matched controls. The evaluation of biomarkers of oxidative stress showed significant decline in the old (ADF and TRF) groups in addition to up regulation in antioxidant levels. It was observed that ADF and TRF methods helped reduce ROS accumulation in the mitochondria and increased the activity of the electron transport chain complexes especially C-I and III. Gene expression analysis of autophagy genes like beclin and LC3B showed upregulated expression in ADF and TRF group. Sirtuin1 expression too significantly increased during fasting in both young and old groups showing fasting induced protection from aging. Histological analysis of sections of cerebral cortex and CA1 area provide evidence that fasting protected neurons against degeneration with age. Our results prompt us to conclude that the efficacy of these fasting methods ADF and TRF are reliable anti- aging strategies with respect to dietary restriction interventions. Moreover, both these methods compete closely in conferring protection from oxidative stress and inducing neuroprotective changes in brain of aged rats when compared to their young counterparts., (© 2022. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Nature B.V.)

Background: An altered lipid profile may lead to the development of inflammation and NAFLD (Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease). Although statins have a positive effect on blood lipid levels their long-term use is known to cause adverse effects, in this backdrop there is an interest in natural compounds which may affect lipid metabolism and prevent NAFLD. We have examined the effect of Chitosan on rats subjected to a high-fat diet., Methods and Results: Male Wistar middle aged rats (12-16 months) were treated with high-fat diet orally for two months for creating a NAFLD model. Rats were also supplemented with Chitosan (2% chitosan daily) for 2 months. We assessed the activity of antioxidant enzymes, the histopathological profile of the liver. Inflammatory cytokines and adiponectin levels were also measured in serum. HFD induced significant changes in liver tissue and inflammatory markers (Il-6, TNF- alpha, NF-KB). Chitosan treatment protected rats from HFD induced alterations., Conclusions: The findings suggest that Chitosan can effectively improve liver lipid metabolism by normalizing cholesterol, triglyceride, lowering NF-KB expression, and protecting the liver from oxidative stress by improving hepatic function. Chitosan also regulates genes related to lipidemic stress i,e leptin and adiponectin., (© 2022. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Nature B.V.)

In the present study, attempts have been made to evaluate the potential role of 3 Bromopyruvate (3-BP) a glycolytic inhibitor and a caloric restriction mimetic (CRM), to exert neuroprotection in rats during aging through modulation of autophagy. Young male rats (4 months), and naturally aged (22 months) male rats were supplemented with 3-BP (30 mg/kg b.w., orally) for 28 days. Our results demonstrate a significant increase in the antioxidant biomarkers (ferric reducing antioxidant potential level, total thiol, superoxide dismutase, and catalase activities) and a decrease in the level of pro-oxidant biomarkers such as protein carbonyl after 3-BP supplementation in brain tissues. A significant increase in reactive oxygen species (ROS) was observed due to the mitohormetic effect of 3-BP supplementation in the treated rats. Furthermore, the 3-BP treatment also enhanced the activities of electron transport chain complexes I and IV in aged brain mitochondria thus proving its antioxidant potential at the level of mitochondria. Gene expression analysis with reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) was performed to assess the expression of autophagy, neuroprotective and aging marker genes. RT-PCR data revealed that 3-BP up-regulated the expression of autophagy markers genes (Beclin-1 and LC3 β), sirtuin-1, and neuronal marker gene (NSE), respectively in the aging brain. The results suggest that 3-BP induces a mitohormetic effect through the elevation of ROS which reinforces defensive mechanism(s) targeted at regulating autophagy. These findings suggest that consistently low-dose 3-BP may be beneficial for neuroprotection during aging and age-related disorders., (© 2022. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Nature B.V.)

The present study entails the phytoremediation potential of different bamboo species on 5-year-old FA-dumped site near Koradi thermal power plant of Nagpur, Maharashtra, India. The selected FA-dumped site was treated with farmyard manure, press mud, and bio fertilizer followed by plantation of six promising species of bamboo namely Bambusa balcooa Roxb., Dendrocalamus stocksii (Munro.) M. Kumar, Remesh and Unnikrishnan, Bambusa bambos (L.) Voss, Bambusa wamin E.G. Camus, Bambusa vulgaris var. striata (Lodd. ex Lindl.) Gamble, and Bambusa vulgaris var. vittata Riviere and Riviere. The experimental results indicated that the organic input in the FA-dumped site nourished the soil by improving its physico-chemical, and biological characteristics. The results revealed the contamination of the site with different trace elements in varied quantity including Cr (89.29 mg kg -1 ), Zn (84.77 mg kg -1 ), Ni (28.84 mg kg -1 ), Cu (22.91 mg kg -1 ), Li (19.65 mg kg -1 ), Pb (13.47 mg kg -1 ), and Cd (2.35 mg kg -1 ). A drastic reduction in concentration of heavy metals in FA was observed after 1 year of bamboo plantation as compared to the initial condition. The results showed that bamboo species are good excluders of Ba, Co, Cr, Li, Ni, Mn, and Zn, whereas they are good accumulators of Cd, Pb, and Cu. The values of biochemical parameters, such as pH, total chlorophyll, ascorbic acid (AA), and relative water content of all the bamboo leaves ranged from 5.11-5.70, 1.56-6.33 mg g -1 , 0.16-0.19 mg g -1 , and 60.23-76.68%, respectively. It is thereby concluded that the bamboo plantation with biofertilizers and organic amendments may indicate adaptive response to environmental pollution on FA-dumped site.

Spermidine (SPD) is a natural polyamine present in all living organisms and is involved in the maintenance of cellular homeostasis by inducing autophagy in different model organisms. Its role as a caloric restriction mimetic (CRM) is still being investigated. We have undertaken this study to investigate whether SPD, acting as a CRM, can confer neuroprotection in D-galactose induced accelerated senescence model rat and naturally aged rats through modulation of autophagy and inflammation. Young male rats (4 months), D-gal induced (500 mg/kg b.w., subcutaneously) aging and naturally aged (22 months) male rats were supplemented with SPD (10 mg/kg b.w., orally) for 6 weeks. Standard protocols were employed to measure prooxidants, antioxidants, apoptotic cell death and electron transport chain complexes in brain tissues. Gene expression analysis with reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) was performed to assess the expression of autophagy and inflammatory marker genes. Our data demonstrate that SPD significantly (p ≤ 0.05) decreased the level of pro-oxidants and increased the level of antioxidants. SPD supplementation also augmented the activities of electron transport chain complexes in aged brain mitochondria thus proving its antioxidant potential at the level of mitochondria. RT-PCR data revealed that SPD up-regulated the expression of autophagy genes (ATG-3, Beclin-1, ULK-1 and LC3B) and down-regulated the expression of the inflammatory gene (IL-6) in aging brain. Our results provide first line of evidence that SPD provides neuroprotection against aging-induced oxidative stress by regulating autophagy, antioxidants level and also reduces neuroinflammation. These results suggest that SPD may be beneficial for neuroprotection during aging and age-related disorders.

Lipopolysaccharide (LPS), an endotoxin, is known to induce inflammatory response and oxidative stress in rodents. We evaluated the protective role of Euglena tuba extract (ETME) against LPS induced inflammatory response and oxidative stress in male Balb/c mice. Male Balb/c mice were divided into 4 groups. Group 1 (control) were intraperitoneally administered 0.5 mL PBS. Group 2, 3 and 4 were treated with a single dose of LPS (i.p. 40 mg/kg body weight). Prior 1 h, Group 3 and 4 received orally 100 mg/kg body weight and 200 mg/kg body weight ETME respectively. Biomarkers of oxidative stress including TBARS, SOD, Catalase, Liver marker enzyme (SGPT and SGOT), Nitric Oxide, and inflammatory cytokines including IL-6 and TNF-α, were estimated in serum. Oxidative stress and inflammatory markers were significantly increased in the LPS treated group, whereas ETME treated group at different concentrations protected mice from pro inflammatory cytokines and oxidative stress. Our results indicate that 70% methanolic extract of Euglena tuba can efficiently counteract free radical generation and increased level of inflammatory cytokine in an LPS induced mice model., Competing Interests: Conflict of interestThe authors of this manuscript have no conflict of interest., (© Institute of Molecular Biology, Slovak Academy of Sciences 2020.)