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Among the various species of the genus Calendula, C. officinalis is the only one, which is extensively used clinically throughout the world. Pharmacological studies reveal that C. officinalis exhibits antibacterial, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, anti-tumor and antioxidant properties, helps promote the healing of minor burns, scrapes and skin irritations and relieves sunburn and minor cuts. The objective of this study was to optimize conditions for encapsulating Calendula officinalis Linn extract. Thus a novel approach to effectively treat wrinkles, helps promote the healing of minor burns, scrapes and skin irritations and relieves sunburn and minor cuts by delivery of an antioxidant using a special lipid vesicular carrier, the Ethosomal cream was prepared.

The neuropeptide urocortin 3 (UCN3) has a beneficial effect on metabolic disorders, such as obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. It has been reported that UCN3 regulates insulin secretion and is dysregulated with increasing severity of obesity and diabetes. However, its function in the adipose tissue is unclear. We investigated the overexpression of UCN3 in 3T3-L1 preadipocytes and differentiated adipocytes and its effects on heat shock response, ER stress, inflammatory markers, and glucose uptake in the presence of stress-inducing concentrations of palmitic acid (PA). UCN3 overexpression significantly downregulated heat shock proteins (HSP60, HSP72 and HSP90) and ER stress response markers (GRP78, PERK, ATF6, and IRE1α) and attenuated inflammation (TNFα) and apoptosis (CHOP). Moreover, enhanced glucose uptake was observed in both preadipocytes and mature adipocytes, which is associated with upregulated phosphorylation of AKT and ERK but reduced p-JNK. Moderate effects of UCN3 overexpression were also observed in the presence of 400 μM of PA, and macrophage conditioned medium dramatically decreased the UCN3 mRNA levels in differentiated 3T3-L1 cells. In conclusion, the beneficial effects of UCN3 in adipocytes are reflected, at least partially, by the improvement in cellular stress response and glucose uptake and attenuation of inflammation and apoptosis.

Purpose The evidence linking waterpipe smoking to cardiovascular disease is limited. We evaluated the association of waterpipe smoking (WPS) with arterial stiffness and wave reflection measured by augmentation pressure (AP), augmentation index (AIx), and carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity (CFPWV), which are validated predictors of cardiovascular disease. Materials and methods Community-based, cross-sectional study including 205 exclusive waterpipe smokers and 199 matched never-smokers aged 35 years or older (mean age 51.7 ± 8.9 years, 36% females). Smoking and its extent were assessed using a validated questionnaire and urine cotinine levels. CFPWV, AP, AIx (AP/aortic pulse pressure) and heart rate adjusted AIx (AIx@75) were determined using tonometry and compared between smokers and non-smokers, and the association of WPS with tonometry measures was assessed using linear regression adjusting for possible confounders. Results Waterpipe smokers and non-smokers had similar mean age and sex distribution. Compared to non-smokers, waterpipe smokers had significantly higher adjusted AP (10.5 ± 3.9 vs. 9.4 ± 3.9 mmHg respectively; p = 0.01), AIx (28.1 ± 8.4 vs. 25.7 ± 8.5% respectively; p = 0.01) and AIx@75 (24.2 ± 8.7 vs. 21.8 ± 8.9% respectively; p = 0.01). AIx was significantly associated with WPS extent, measured by a number of waterpipe smoked/day (β = 1.04/waterpipe, 95%CI:[0.50-1.58]), duration of waterpipe smoking (β = 0.77/10-years, 95%CI:[0.16-1.38]), their products in waterpipe-years (β = 0.30/10-waterpipe-year, 95%CI:[0.12-0.47]) and plasma cotinine (β = 0.56/100 ng/ml, 95%CI:[0.14-0.98]), adjusting for possible confounders, and so were AP and AIx@75. CFPWV however, was not associated with waterpipe smoking. Conclusion In a community-based sample, exclusive WPS and its extent were associated with a dose-dependent increase in AIx and AP, accounting for other risk factors, suggesting that waterpipe smokers are at increased risk of cardiovascular disease.

The evolution of new SARS‐CoV‐2 variants around the globe has made the COVID‐19 pandemic more worrisome, further pressuring the health care system and immunity. Novel variations that are unique to the receptor‐binding motif (RBM) of the receptor‐binding domain (RBD) spike glycoprotein, i. e. L452R‐E484Q, may play a different role in the B.1.617 (also known as G/452R.V3) variant's pathogenicity and better survival compared to the wild type. Therefore, a thorough analysis is needed to understand the impact of these mutations on binding with host receptor (RBD) and to guide new therapeutics development. In this study, we used structural and biomolecular simulation techniques to explore the impact of specific mutations (L452R‐E484Q) in the B.1.617 variant on the binding of RBD to the host receptor ACE2. Our analysis revealed that the B.1.617 variant possesses different dynamic behaviours by altering dynamic‐stability, residual flexibility and structural compactness. Moreover, the new variant had altered the bonding network and structural‐dynamics properties significantly. MM/GBSA technique was used, which further established the binding differences between the wild type and B.1.617 variant. In conclusion, this study provides a strong impetus to develop novel drugs against the new SARS‐CoV‐2 variants., Structural and biomolecular simulation techniques were used in this study to explore the impact of specific mutations in the B.1.617 variant of SARS‐CoV‐2 on the binding of receptor‐binding domain (RBD) to the host receptor ACE2. The analysis revealed that the B.1.617 variant possesses different dynamic behaviours by altering dynamic stability, residual flexibility, and structural compactness.

Pigeonpea (Cajanus cajan L.) as a vegetable crop has gained importance due to rich dietary proteins. In this context, production of quality green pods is the need of the hour. Among the various insect pests, lepidopteran pod borers including blue butterfly, Lampides boeticus (Linnaeus) and Pod borer, Helicoverpa armigera (Hubner) has become real threat in vegetable pigeonpea production. Keeping this point in view, the field experiments was undertaken to evaluate some biopesticides and new chemical insecticides against lepidopteran pod borers during Kharif season of 2018-19 and 2019-20 at college of Horticulture, Bagalkot, Karnataka. The pooled data indicated that treatment application of chlorantraniliprole 18.5 SC at 0.2 ml per liter and cyantraniliprole 10 OD at 1.2 ml per litre showed the least larval population, lowest pod damage with higher green pod yield followed by sequential application of B. bassiana (2 × 108 cfu/ml) at 2.0 ml per litre + azadirachtin (1000 ppm) at 1.0 ml per litre. However, the highest B: C ratio was obtained in the treatment chlorantraniliprole 18.5 SC suggesting that two sprays of chlorantraniliprole 18.5 SC at 0.2 ml per litre in 10 days interval after 50 per cent flowering is environmentally safe, economically viable to manage lepidopteran pod borers in vegetable pigeonpea along with obtaining residue free green seeds at the time of harvest.

Background Higher aldehyde dehydrogenases (ALDH) activity is one of the important signatures of breast cancer appearance and has been associated with poor prognosis. ALDH1A3 has been over-expressed in breast cancer patients. This study aims to analyze gene expression patterns of 18 ALDH isozymes in breast cancer tissue samples. It is carried out using a chip-based microarray, next-generation DNA sequencing of ALDH2 gene following in silico study to identify the natural products which act as inhibitors for over-expressed ALDH isoforms. The synthesis of rutin-copper complex and cell viability assay is carried out on MDA-MB-468 cell line. Results ALDH1A3 and ALDH18A1 have shown the highest positive mean fold of variation; whereas, ALDH2 and ALDH1A2 have shown the highest negative mean fold variation. In silico studies revealed that rutin has the highest binding affinity with both ALDH1A3 and ALDH18A1 and supported with IC50 value of rutin against MDA-MB-468 cells (144.50 μg/ml). Chemically synthesized rutin-copper complex significantly lowered the IC50 value to 119.40 μg/ml. The next-generation sequencing study provides the novel single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) from T to G in the ALDH2 gene. Conclusion The present study signifies that, along with ALDH1A3, ALDH18A1 also acts as a marker for breast cancer. Apart from that, inhibitors of ALDH1A3 and ALDH18A1 were attained. Perhaps the single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) obtained during the mutation analysis may be the probable cause of the highest downregulation of ALDH2 in breast cancer.

Phytochemical constituents are responsible for medicinal activity of plant species. Hence in the present study Qualitative and quantitative phytochemical screening, Physicochemical, elemental analysis and anticancer activity of Ceropegia spiralis tuber extracts were carried out. Qualitative and quantitative phytochemical analysis of tuber aqueous extract confirm the presence of various secondary metabolites like saponins, triterpenoids, steroids, tannins, alkaloids, flavonoids and phenols. The results suggest that the phytochemical properties for curing various ailments and possess potential anticancer, antimicrobial and antioxidant activities leads to the isolation of new and novel compounds. Physicochemical studies reveals that the dry matter 96.23%; followed by Water soluble extractive 14.28 %. Elemental analysis reveals Nitrogen 3.4 % followed by Zinc 218.9%. Along with this, macro and micro elements which are essential for maintaining the animal body were also determined quantitatively. Anticancer activity of C. spiralis exhibited potential towards MDAMB-231 (human breast cancer) cell lines, shows 78.30% cell death with cell viability 21.70% at 100 µg/ml. The presence of various bioactive compounds confirms the application of C. spiralis against many ailments by the traditional practitioners.

Generally, plant growth, development, and their productivity are mainly affected by their growth rate and also depend on environmental factors such as temperature, pH, humidity, and light. The interaction between plants and pathogens are highly specific. Such specificity is well characterized by plants and pathogenic microbes in the form of a molecular signature such as pattern-recognition receptors (PRRs) and microbes-associated molecular patterns (MAMPs), which in turn trigger systemic acquired immunity in plants. A number of Arabidopsis mutant collections are available to investigate molecular and physiological changes in plants under the presence of different light conditions. Over the past decade(s), several studies have been performed by selecting Arabidopsis thaliana under the influence of red, green, blue, far/far-red, and white light. However, only few phenotypic and molecular based studies represent the modulatory effects in plants under the influence of green and blue lights. Apart from this, red light (RL) actively participates in defense mechanisms against several pathogenic infections. This evolutionary pattern of light sensitizes the pathologist to analyze a series of events in plants during various stress conditions of the natural and/or the artificial environment. This review scrutinizes the literature where red, blue, white, and green light (GL) act as sensory systems that affects physiological parameters in plants. Generally, white and RL are responsible for regulating various defense mechanisms, but, GL also participates in this process with a robust impact! In addition to this, we also focus on the activation of signaling pathways (salicylic acid and jasmonic acid) and their influence on plant immune systems against phytopathogen(s).

Highlights • The G clade 23403A>G mutation on the spike glycoprotein (S-protein) encodes a virulent strain of SARS-CoV-2. • D614 G mutation causes a loss of H-bond between loop (Chain A) and the α-helix (Chain B) results in a more flexible loop region. • A more dynamic structure made the S-protein RRAR binding site more accessible from furin cleavage. • SARS-CoV-2 strain being more accessible for cleavage, enhances the viral entry to the host cell., Objective The coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19) pandemic has caused an exponential rise in death rates and hospitalizations. The aim of this study was to characterize the D614 G mutation of SARS-CoV-2 S-protein, which may affect viral infectivity. Methods The effect of D614 G mutation on the structure and thermodynamic stability of S-protein was analyzed using DynaMut and SCooP. HDOCK and PRODIGY were used to model furin protease binding to the S-protein RARR cleavage site and calculate binding affinities. Molecular dynamic (MD) simulations were used to predict S-protein apo structure, S-protein–furin complex structure, and the free binding energy of the complex. Results The D614 G mutation in the G clade of SARS-CoV-2 strains introduced structural mobility and decreased thermal stability of S-protein (ΔΔG: −0.086 kcal/mol). The mutation resulted in a stronger binding affinity (Kd = 1.6 × 10−8) to furin which may enhance S-protein cleavage. Results were corroborated by MD simulations demonstrating higher binding energy of furin to S-protein D614 mutant (−61.9 kcal/mol compared with -56.78 kcal/mol for wild-type S-protein). Conclusions The D614 G mutation in the G clade induced the flexibility of S-protein, resulting in increased furin binding which may enhance S-protein cleave and infiltration of host cells. As such, SARS-CoV-2 D614 G mutation may result in a more virulent strain.

The nanosponge is the novel and emerging technology which plays a vital role in targeting drug delivery in the controlled manner. The nanosponges are tiny sponges having size of about a virus and it can easily penetrate through the skin. The tiny sponges circulate around the body until they reach to the specific target site and stick on the surface and start to release the drug in controlled manner. It releases the drug at specific site instead of circulating overall body it is more effective for targeted drug delivery system as they enhance solubility, bioavailability and reduces side effects. Nanosponges prevent drug and protein degradation. Both hydrophilic and lipophilic drugs are incorporated in Nanosponge. In this review mechanism, method of preparation, evaluation, stabilization and applications of nanosponges are discussed.

Copper and cobalt co-doped TiO2 nanoparticles (NPs) [(Cu1-x-Cox)-TiO2 for x = 0.1 M and 0.9 M] have been synthesized through the hydrothermal method in the current investigation. X-ray diffraction (XRD), energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and UV–vis spectrophotometer have characterized the structural, optical, morphological, and compositional of all prepared samples. Analysis of XRD showed that all prepared nano powders were nanocrystalline and had new [(Cu1-x-Cox)- TiO2 ], rutile and anatase phase depending on the molarity. Further studies have shown that the arrangement of tetragonal and rhombohedral crystals for TiO2 and (Cu1-x-Cox)- TiO2 for x = 0.1 M and 0.9 M respectively, with an average crystallite size of 7.362 nm for TiO2 and 27 nm for (Cu1-x-Cox)- TiO2 for x = 0.1 M and 0.9 M . The SEM analysis shows that the NPs for pure is spherical in form and doped TiO2 have an irregular shape with an average grain size of 168 nm and 223 nm. Analysis of the EDS confirms the chemical composition of the Ti and O elements of the NPs. The difference in the indirect band gap of 3.07 eV, 2.74 eV and 3.58 eV for TiO2 NPs, (Cu0.9-Co0.1)-TiO2 NPs and (Cu0.1-Co0.9)-TiO2 NPs is shown by Tauc’s plots. Here it is noted that the maximal absorption (λm) showed a red shift in the UV–vis absorption spectrum due to doping. Photocatalytic activity was assessed by monitoring Eriochrome Black T (EBT) degradation under UV light. The EBT dye photocatalytic degradation results were 57.75%, 73.7% and 73 %for TiO2 NPs, (Cu0.9-Co0.1)-TiO2 NPs and (Cu0.1-Co0.9)-TiO2 NPs for 110 min, respectively, under UV irradiation. These findings indicate that doping with copper and cobalt improves TiO2’s photodegradation quality.

A study on performance of gerbera cultivars for different levels of silicic acid application was carried out under protected condition. The results revealed that among all seven cultivars, ‘Marinilla’ recorded with higher number of flowers (15.11) and lower number of flowers observed with cultivar ‘Vilassar’ (13.11). Cultivars ‘Vilassar’ and ‘Amelie’ recorded with higher flower diameter (11.88 mm) than ‘Natasha’ (10.47 mm). Stalk length was recorded higher with cultivar ‘Marinilla’ (70.16 cm) and lower stalk length was observed in cultivar ‘Nijela’ (64.16 cm) after fourth spray. Flowers of cultivars ‘Vilassar’ and ‘Amlet’ was recorded with higher vase life (13.88 days) compared to other cultivars. Silicic acid spray showed better results with respect to number of flowers, flower diameter, stalk length and vase life of flower. Foliar spray of silicic acid 2 ml/L of water was recorded with higher vase life of flower (14.33 days). Treatment without silicic acid (0 ml/L) recorded with lower vase life (12.76 days).

A commonly seen phenomenon in the hospital and critical care setting is anaphylaxis. This acute systemic inflammatory reaction can lead to anaphylactic shock in severe cases and potentially be fatal. The role of platelets in anaphylactic reactions is not well established; however, platelets, among other mediators such as platelet-activating factor, have been shown to promote a prothrombotic state shortly after an acute hypersensitivity reaction. In addition, the aggregation of platelets promoted by platelet-activating factor and other mediators can also lead to thrombocytopenia. We present a case of a 57-year-old woman who developed severe anaphylaxis while receiving chemotherapy with paclitaxel suspended in Cremophor, a well-known allergen. She was profoundly thrombocytopenic following the reaction and was treated with therapeutic anticoagulation, with no thrombus formation.

Obesity is associated with elevated levels of TNF-α and proinflammatory CD11c monocytes /macrophages. TNF-α mediated dysregulation in the plasticity of monocytes/macrophages is concomitant with pathogenesis of several inflammatory diseases, including metabolic syndrome, but the underlying mechanisms are incompletely understood. Since neutral sphingomyelinase 2 (nSMase2; product of the sphingomyelin phosphodiesterase 3 gene, SMPD3) is a key enzyme for ceramide production involved in inflammation, we investigated whether nSMase2 contributed to the inflammatory changes in the monocytes/macrophages induced by TNF-α. In this study, we demonstrate that the disruption of nSMase activity in monocytes/macrophages either by chemical inhibitor GW4869 or small interfering RNA (siRNA) against SMPD3 results in defects in the TNF-α mediated expression of CD11c. Furthermore, blockage of nSMase in monocytes/macrophages inhibited the secretion of inflammatory mediators IL-1b and MCP-1. In contrast, inhibition of acid SMase (aSMase) activity did not attenuate CD11c expression or secretion of IL-1b and MCP-1. TNF-α-induced phosphorylation of JNK, p38 and NF-κB was also attenuated by the inhibition of nSMase2. Moreover, NF-kB/AP-1 activity was blocked by the inhibition of nSMase2. SMPD3 was elevated in PBMCs from obese individuals and positively corelated with TNF-α gene expression. These findings indicate that nSMase2 acts, at least in part, as a master switch in the TNF-α mediated inflammatory responses in monocytes/macrophages.

We report a versatile epoxide assisted synthesis route of developing Ni/SnO2 xerogels and their use as efficient H2S gas sensors. Instead of expensive, non-aqueous and complicated organometallic precursors, epoxide route utilizes easy to handle salts as precursors (tin and nickel nitrates, in the present case) and epoxide (propylene oxide, in the present case) as a gelation agent. The obtained Ni/SnO2 xerogels with 1–4 mol% Ni doping, were analyzed using various physico-chemical techniques such as XRD, FE-SEM, TEM/HRTEM, EDAX, UV–Vis and FTIR spectroscopy. The developed nanomaterials showcase excellent physico-chemical as well as H2S gas sensing properties. Amongst the Ni doped SnO2 xerogels, 3 mol% Ni/SnO2 exhibited enhanced H2S response (from Ra/Rg value 5 to 11.5), and reduction in the operating temperature (from 325 to 275 °C). It showed a quick response of ~ 15 s and recovery within ~ 30 s. Almost 80.50% of its original efficiency after 60 days of shelf life, was exhibited with high stability. The developed route of Ni/SnO2 xerogels proved its design for efficient H2S gas sensing, and have considerable potential for industrial use.

Rhizome rot disease of ginger has become a major threat to all ginger growing areas causing huge economical losses. The complex nature of the pathogens involved in the disease makes the management strategies cumbersome. There is still a need to develop integrated disease management strategies by targeting all the pathogens involved in the complex disease development. In the present study, we have isolated five pathogens involved in the disease development such as Pythium, Fusarium, Sclerotium rolfisii, Ralstonea solanacearum and Meloidogyne incognita. A primary in vitro evaluation of seven different antibiotics such as Streptocycline, K-cycline, Plantomycine, Validamycin, Bactinash, Bactinashak as well as nine nonsystemic, eleven systemic, and twelve combi products were evaluated under lab conditions against the pathogen complex. Our results revealed that among the different antibiotics Streptocycline followed K-cycline, Bactinash, as well as COC, found most effective against Ralstonea solanacearum. Among the different non-systemic chemicals evaluated against the pathogen complex COC and propineb found effective against Pythium, mancozeb, captan, kavach were effective against Fusarium and all the non-systemic fungicides showed high inhibition against Sclerotium rolfisii. Systemic fungicides such as carbendazim, Tricyclazole, Tebuconazole, Alliete were found more effective against Pythium. Tricyclazole, Tebuconazole found effective against Fusarium, and fungicides such as Hexaconazole, Propiconazole, Tricyclazole, Myclobutanil, Azoxystrobin, Tebuconazole, Diniconazole were found effective against Sclerotium rolfsii. As compared to systemic and non-systemic fungicides, combi products were found more effective against all the pathogens involved in the disease complex.

The present investigation reports, the bacterial cellulose (BC) a high-purity polymer produced from isolated strain ZKE7. BC production was optimized by Plackett–Burman and central composite designs yielding 18.5 g/l BC with a 4.5-fold enhancement. BC composites functionalized with antibiotics, BC-gelatin hydrogel, BC-Chitosan hydrogel and BC silver nanoparticle composites were developed and evaluated for water retention capability, moisture content and protein adsorption. The drug release behavior of the composites was consistent for controlled drug delivery. Composites were assessed for functional characteristic such as antimicrobial properties. BC composites functionalized with Neotericine exhibited antifungal activity against Candida albicans. Other composites showed pronounced antibacterial properties against Escherichia coli, Bacillus subtilis and Micrococcus luteus. Structural and thermal characterization of BC composites was carried out by FTIR, SEM with energy dispersive X-ray analysis, TGA and differential scanning calorimetry analysis. The results reveal high BC production with excellent properties that can be employed in biomedical field.

Deciphering the biological resources across the Saudi niches is highly recommended for the prosperity. To this end, the aim of the current work was to isolate thermophilic bacteria from unexplored areas of Al-Ahsa region, and investigate their phenotypic characteristics. Three soil samples were collected from different desert sites of Al-Ahsa region. Thermophilic bacteria were isolated directly for soil samples into Thermus medium broth as a standard method. Single colonies of the actively growing bacterial isolates were preserved in 20% glycerol then kept at -80°C. The isolates were screened for production of thermostable enzymes using the commercially available kit API20E strip (bioMerieux, Marcy l’Etoile, France). Incubation were carried out at 50°C. It can be concluded that thermophilic bacteria in Al-Ahsa region harbor novel thermostable enzymes that might have biotechnological applications, in future.

Biogenic amines (BAs) are natural toxicants produced during the metabolism of their precursor amino acids or due to the proteolytic activities of some microorganisms. The objective of this study was to estimate the formed BAs in five types of the most commonly consumed and retailed cheese in Egypt. The examined cheese types included Feta, Karish, Mozzarella, Rumy, and Mish. Besides, the total mesophilic (TMC) and total psychrophilic (TPsC) bacterial counts were investigated. Furthermore, the estimated daily intakes (EDI) of BAs via the ingestion of various types of cheese were calculated, and their potential health risks were discussed. The achieved results indicated the formation of histamine (HIS), tyramine (TYR), cadaverine (CAD), putrescine, spermine, and spermidine at different concentrations. Except for Feta cheese, all samples (100%) of other cheese types had HIS concentrations higher than the established maximum permissible limits. Mish cheese contained the highest concentrations of total BAs, particularly, HIS, TYR, and CAD. TBA content showed significant positive correlations with TMC in the examined cheese types. The recorded EDI values of the different BAs in the current study would not have adverse effects. However, excessive consumption of cheese contaminated with BA might have serious health implications such as symptoms of histamine poisoning. Therefore, the adoption of strict hygienic measures during the production, storage, and distribution of cheese is highly recommended to reduce the formation of BAs in cheese.

Herein, a very simple and rapid synthesis of silver foam is presented. The foam consists of large agglomerates of nanoparticles. Well-defined silver nanostructures are obtained by ultrasonic irradiation to the aqueous solution of the reactants. The formation of particles is so quick that a short pulse of ultrasonic waves for only 10 s is sufficient to convert the aqueous silver nitrate solution into silver particles foam. Here, silicon is used as a catalyst for the reaction without which there was no formation of above foam. An interesting mechanism is followed by the completion of the reaction, where a self assembly of the as formed particles takes place and results in the formation of a foam of well connected particles. The present method of synthesis of self assembled silver foam is simple, innovative, fast, and is quite effective for bulk formation.

Fertilizer management practices that focus on applying N fertilizer at the right rate and time have been proposed as a practical option to reduce NO3 -N losses from subsurface drained agricultural fields. In this study, regression equations were developed to predict NO3 -N losses for a corn (Zea mays L.) and soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] rotation in southern Minnesota, using fertilizer application timing and rate and growing season precipitation as inputs. The equations were developed using the results of the field-scale hydrologic and N simulation model DRAINMOD-NII, first calibrated and validated for three sites in southern Minnesota, and then run with different combinations of N fertilizer application rates and timings. Fertilizer timing treatments included a single application in the fall or spring and a split-spring application (half applied preplant and the remaining applied as sidedress). The predictive regression equations showed that the split fertilizer application timing could reduce regional N loads by 28% compared with spring or fall applications. Greater reductions were predicted when the split timing was combined with lower N fertilizer rates. Utilizing the split application timing and reducing the fertilizer rate by 10 and 30% showed 33 and 41% reductions in N loads, respectively, compared with current fertilizer management practices. Such reductions in fertilizer application rates could be achieved through the use of variable-rate nitrogen (VRN) fertilizer technologies. Results of this modeling study indicate that synchronizing fertilizer application with crop requirements and utilizing VRN technologies could significantly reduce N loads to surface waters in southern Minnesota.

Background Non-alcoholic liver disease is of increased concern and contributing to economic burdens not only in developing countries but in developed countries as well. Identifying the biomarker of early diagnosis and early intervention approaches for non-alcoholic liver disease is unmet and required further investigation. Although the alpha-ketoglutarate (α-KG) is recently proposed to be a potential biomarker in differentiating patients with obesity from those with non-alcoholic liver disease, how α-ketoglutatate is involved in the fatty liver progression is not clear. Methods A high-fat diet (HFD) feeding animal model, liver functional assays, and molecular approaches were adopted to clarify the impact of α-KG in fatty liver progression. Results In the current study, it was found that dietary α-KG would inhibit weight gain in male and female mice fed with a normal chew or HFD. HFD feeding caused fatty liver in male mice, but α-KG treatment could substantially inhibit hepatic steatosis progression. Biochemical studies revealed the possible linkage of α-KG protective functions to lipid metabolism. Further analysis identified the important role of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors in beneficial α-KG-mediated effects on fatty liver progression. Conclusions The current study demonstrates the therapeutic potential of α-KG and how it may be used, via dietary supplementation, as a preventive intervention for non-alcoholic liver disease in obese patients.

A robust synthesis approach to develop CuO/ZnO nanocomposites using microwave-epoxide-assisted hydrothermal synthesis and their proficiency toward H2S gas-sensing application are reported. The low-cost metal salts (Cu and Zn) as precursors in aqueous media and epoxide (propylene oxide) as a proton scavenger/gelation agent are used for the formation of mixed metal hydroxides. The obtained sol was treated using the microwave hydrothermal process to yield the high-surface area (34.71 m2/g) CuO/ZnO nanocomposite. The developed nanocomposites (1.25-10 mol % Cu doping) showcase hexagonal ZnO and monoclinic CuO structures, with an average crystallite size in the range of 18-29 nm wrt Cu doping in the ZnO matrix. The optimized nanocomposite (2.5 mol % Cu doping) showed a lowest crystallite size of 21.64 nm, which reduced further to 18.06 nm upon graphene oxide addition. Morphological analyses (scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy) exhibited rounded grains along with copious channels typical for sol-gel-based materials . Elemental mapping displayed the good dispersion of Cu in the ZnO matrix. When these materials are employed as a gas sensor, they demonstrated high sensitivity and selectivity toward H2S gas in comparison with the reducing gases and volatile organic compounds under investigation. The systematic doping of Cu in the ZnO matrix exhibited an improved response from 76.66 to 94.28%, with reduction in operating temperature from 300 to 250 °C. The 2.5 mol % doped Cu in ZnO was found to impart a response of 23 s for 25 ppm of H2S. Gas-sensing properties are described using an interplay of epoxide-assisted sol-gel chemistry and structural and morphological properties of the developed material.

Objective: The lack of possible cure and associated disadvantages of allopathic medicines in the topical treatment of psoriasis has led to extensive research for anti-psoriatic activities of plant-based drugs. The present study was aimed to develop topical cream formulation containing the Nanostructured Lipid Carriers of Azadirachta indica leaves extract (AE), Lawsonia inermis leaves extract (LE) and fruit extract of Mallotus philippensis (ME) and assessing the antipsoriatic activity of prepared cream formulation. Methods: The Drug loaded NLCs were prepared via hot homogenization technique and incorporated into the water in oil (w/o) cream base that was prepared by the emulsification method. Evaluation of cream formulation included advanced preclinical trials using Rat Ultraviolet Ray-B photodermatitis and Mousetail method, anti-lipid peroxidation assay, nitric oxide scavenging activity, cytotoxicity and DNA fragmentation on HaCat cell lines to ascertain antipsoriatic potential and in vitro drug diffusion. Results: In spite of the low amount of the drug loading in NLCs their potency was much higher as displayed in Advanced Preclinical studies and cell line studies for psoriasis indicating the suitability of NLCs loaded creams for skin applications due to their various desirable effects on the skin. Occlusive properties of the prepared NLC on the skin provide an increase in drug penetration particularly via skin moisturization. The in vitro drug diffusion studies suggest the prolonged and almost complete release of AE, LE and ME from NLC based cream up to 24 h that was found to be 81.24±0.51%, 74.31±0.25% and 70.43±0.78% respectively. The literature survey supports the novelty of such topical anti-psoriatic polyherbal nanoparticulate cream. Conclusion: It can be concluded that the AE, LE and ME loaded NLC based cream can be used for prolonged topical delivery of drugs for the management of Psoriasis.

Objective: The present study aimed to improve the rate of dissolution of furosemide by solid dispersion technique. Methods: Solid dispersion of furosemide was prepared by using hydrogel isolated from the seeds of Lepidium sativum as a novel carrier by the solvent evaporation method. Solid dispersion was evaluated to study the improvement in the rate of dissolution. Molecular dispersion of furosemide in the novel carrier was studied by DSC and FTIR studies. Solid dispersion was filled in capsules after stability studies and the formulation was optimized by adopting factorial design. Results: Solid dispersion of furosemide exhibited dissolution improvement from 13.54 % (plain furosemide) to 69.12% (solid dispersion) in the first 60 min. Improvement in dissolution efficiency was found to be retained after stability studies. Capsules were filled with the formulation of solid dispersion using two different grades of lactose-α lactose monohydrate and anhydrous lactose and were found stable after stabilization studies. Conclusion: The dissolution improvement of furosemide was attributed to its molecular dispersion in the novel carrier selected for this study. The recrystallization of furosemide was prevented due to intermolecular interaction between the novel carrier and furosemide. This was confirmed by FTIR. Evaluation of the dissolution data of factorial batches was analyzed by ANOVA. Analysis of the data revealed that selected levels of α lactose monohydrate and anhydrous lactose would be useful to navigate design space.

Nitrogen (N) loss from cropping systems has important environmental implications, including contamination of drinking water with nitrate. A 2-yr study evaluated the effects of six N rate, source, and timing treatments, including a variable rate (VR) N treatment based on the N sufficiency index approach using remote sensing, and two irrigation rate treatments, including conventional and reduced rate, on nitrate leaching, residual soil nitrate, and plant N uptake for potato (Solanum tuberosum L. cv. Russet Burbank) production in 2016 and 2017 on a Hubbard loamy sand. Nitrate leaching losses measured with suction-cup lysimeters varied between 2016 and 2017 with flow-weighted mean nitrate N concentrations of 5.6 and 12.8 mg N L-1 , respectively, and increased from 7.1 to 10.4 mg N L-1 as N rate increased from 45 to 270 kg N ha-1 . Despite reductions in N rate of 22 and 44 kg N ha-1 in 2016 and 2017, respectively, for the VR N treatment, there was no significant difference in nitrate leaching compared with the existing N best management practices (BMPs). Reducing irrigation rate by 15% decreased nitrate leaching load by 17% through a reduction in percolation. Residual soil nitrate N in the top 60 cm across all treatments (7.9 mg N kg-1 ) suggests a risk for nitrate leaching during the nongrowing season, and plant N uptake did not explain yearly variation in nitrate leaching and residual soil nitrate. Although existing N BMPs are effective at controlling N losses, development of alternative practices is needed to further reduce the risk of groundwater contamination.

The present work was aimed to formulate various cosmetic formulations comprising of extract of Piper betel and Acacia catechu and limestone as a coloring agent to minimize the side effect(s) associated with the use of synthetic colorants. Different natural ingredients such as bees wax, carnauba wax, white soft paraffin, castor oil, strawberry essence, rice starch and lemon juice were used to formulate herbal lipstick, rouge, and eye shadow along with the extracted color. Different evaluation tests were carried out to evaluate the prepared formulations such as color, texture, pH, perfume stability, melting point, breaking point, softening point, surface anomalies, aging stability, thixotrophy and skin irritation test. The results of the evaluation tests revealed that melting point of the prepared lipstick formulation was in the range of 61-63oC. The breaking point of all the prepared lipstick formulations was in the range of 30 – 33 g. Force of application was noted to be good for all the formulations. Thixotrophy character was observed in the range of 9.2 ±0.3 to 9.6 ±0.1. Softening point was found to be in the range 52.33 to 60.330C. Eye shadow and rouge showed good adhesion property and proper color dispersion with melting point of 480C. Patch test on the volunteers showed no signs of skin irritation. The results of the study confirmed that the color extracted from Piper betel and Acacia catechu may prove to be an attractive option and act as a substitute for synthetic colorants in various cosmetic formulations.

A full account of the total synthesis of (±)-cassumunins A–C – superior antioxidants and anti-inflammatory agents – is given. Two novel approaches were developed for synthesizing cassumunins. The total synthesis of cassumunins A and B was accomplished in five linear steps from a known aldehyde in good overall yields of 50 and 43%, respectively, featuring a cascade [3,3]-sigmatropic shift (the Claisen rearrangement) and Heck cross-coupling reaction. Consequently, the total synthesis of cassumunin C was accomplished in three linear steps from a known alcohol with an overall yield of 53%. The key features involved in this synthesis are tandem [3,3]-sigmatropic shift, SN2′ reaction, and aldol condensation. Moreover, a total of eighteen symmetrical and unsymmetrical curcumin analogues were synthesized.

Objective: The present study has been undertaken with the aim to formulate and evaluate the gel contaning leaf extract of Andrographis Paniculata. Methodology and results: The formulation was designed by using alcoholic extract of leaves of Andrographis paniculata.The gel was prepared by using carbapol 934, triethanolamine, propylene glycol, methyl paraben, propyl paraben and required amount of distilled water. The prepared gel was evaluated for physical appearance, pH, spread ability, viscosity, extrudability, albumin denaturation assay and stability. Conclusion: Carbopol gels with dried leaves extract of Andrographis paniculata could be prepared successfully. Key words: Topical gel,Kalmegh, Spreadability, Albumin denaturation