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Abstract: Synthesizing s-triazine dendrimers are interesting as they can be synthesized easily, contain diversity in composition, and have a basic potential for molecular recognition. Triazine trichloride is the molecule of choice for synthesizing a novel class of dendrimers as it possesses certain remarkable characteristics like the potential to expand the chemical functionality by nucleophilic aromatic substitution reactions at various temperatures to give the desired dendrimer.

Recent studies have shown that one-pot synthesis is a boon for triazines synthesis. One-pot processes had significant success in carrying out complex reactions under mild and eco-friendly conditions. One-pot synthesis is environmentally benign and more economical than other processes in triazines synthesis. The triazine scaffold has provided the starting key point for the design and development of pharmaceutical molecules with wide range of biomedical applications. This review highlights the various methodologies involved for one-pot synthesis of 1,3,5-triazine scaffolds.

The present study was aimed to examine the antibacterial potential of Brassica nigra essential oil (BNEO) against Ralstonia solanacearum, causal agent of bacterial wilt and Nitrosomonas sp., the nitrifying bacteria. In poisoned food assay, BNEO showed 100% growth inhibition of R. solancearum at ≥ 125 µg mL-1. Revalidation of findings by volatile assay employing inverted Petri plate technique exhibited 100% bacterial growth inhibition caused by vapors of BNEO, even at 50 µg mL-1 concentration. In the broth microdilution assay, the BNEO exhibited significant antibacterial activity only at higher concentrations (>500 µg mL-1). At 500 µg mL-1, BNEO showed 80% bacterial growth inhibition over control, which was at par with that of streptomycin (5 µg mL-1). In resazurin microtitre-plate assay, the maximum concentration of BNEO, at which color change occurred was 512 µg mL-1 (T9), and thus 512 µg mL-1 was concluded as the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC). BNEO effectively inhibited the activity of Nitrosomonas spp. with 30-65% nitrification inhibition at the dose of 400 mkg-1 of Urea-N. Homology modeled protein targets assisted computational tool-based novel analysis helped to understand that the antibacterial potency of BNEO is due to preferable binding efficiency of allyl isothiocyanate (AITC), the major active ingredient of BNEO.

Background Low dose ( Aim To evaluate the role of oral minoxidil 1.25mg versus oral minoxidil 2.5mg along with platelet rich plasma in AGA METHODS: Group A consisted of fourty seven patients which included patients on OM 1.25mg daily and Platelet rich plasma therapy and Group B consisted of patients on OM 2.5 mg daily and Platelet rich plasma therapy. Photographs were taken before and after treatment along with trichoscopic evaluation. Selection of the dermoscopic variables was based on the published literature. Results At 24 weeks, marked improvement on GCP were seen in 19 (19/47;40.4%) in Group A and 28 (28/48;58.3%) patients in Group B with P value of 0.058. The total increase in total hair/cm2 was around 24 and 36 in group A and B respectively with P>0.05. The percentage increase in mean total hair count/cm2 after 6 month of treatment was 15.41% in group A and 22.15% in group B, but they were not statistically significant. The patient satisfaction score on a likert scale between both group were statistically significant. Conclusion This is a pilot study where OM along with PRP at different dosage has been compared, this can be used in patients who are a bit apprehensive on taking finasteride or dutasteride and are less responsive to topical minoxidil.

Tebuconazole (TBZ) and Chlormequat chloride (CCC) combination has been established as highly effective in reducing plant height of lodging prone wheat varieties. In this work, a novel analytical method employing the quick, easy, cheap, effective, rugged and safe (QuEChERS) cleanup technique and LC-MS/MS (liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectroscopy) was developed for simultaneous estimation of TBZ and CCC in wheat grains and harvest stage plant leaves. A total of 10 mL of acetonitrile and 50 mg of primary secondary amine (PSA) sorbent was consumed in the optimized QuEChERS process for leaves and grain samples. The LC-MS/MS analysis was performed using a C-18 column operating under electrospray ionization in positive mode. The QuEChERS approach achieved extraction recoveries in the acceptable range of 70%-120%, for both the compounds and was validated in terms of accuracy, precision, sensitivity and linearity. Persistence study was conducted using Lihocin (CCC 50% SL), Folicur (TBZ 25.9% EC) and their combination tank mix (Lihocin + Folicur-50% SL + 25.9% EC) applied as foliar spray twice in wheat crop (tester tall variety C-306). The results demonstrated that the developed QuEChERS-LCMS/MS is rapid and confirmatory for simultaneous quantification of both the test analytes in wheat crop.

Genetic resources are of paramount importance for developing improved crop varieties, particularly for biotic and abiotic stress tolerance. Spot blotch (SB) is a destructive foliar disease of wheat prevalent in warm and humid regions of the world, especially in the eastern parts of South Asia. For the management of this disease, the most effective measure is the development of resistant cultivars. Thus, the present investigation was carried out to confirm SB resistance in 200 germplasm accessions based on phenotypic observations and molecular characterization. These elite breeding lines obtained from the International Centre for Maize and Wheat Improvement, Mexico, are developed deploying multiple parentages. These lines were screened for SB resistance in the field under artificially created epiphytotic conditions during 2014–15 and 2015–16 along with two susceptible checks (CIANO T79 and Sonalika) and two resistant checks (Chirya 3 and Francolin). Eighty-two out of 200 germplasm accessions were found resistant to SB and resistance in these lines was confirmed with a specific SSR marker Xgwm148. Three accessions, VORONA/CNO79, KAUZ*3//DOVE/BUC and JUP/BJY//URES/3/HD2206/HORK//BUC/BUL were observed possessing better resistance than the well-known SB-resistant genotype Chirya3. These newly identified resistant lines could be used by wheat breeders for developing SB-resistant wheat varieties.

PURPOSE Intrapatient treatment response heterogeneity is under-recognized. Quantitative total bone imaging (QTBI) using 18F-NaF positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) scans is a tool that allows characterization of interlesional treatment response heterogeneity in bone. Understanding spatial-temporal response is important to identify individuals who may benefit from treatment beyond progression. PATIENTS AND METHODS Men with progressive metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) with at least two lesions on bone scintigraphy were enrolled and treated with enzalutamide 160 mg daily (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT02384382 ). 18F-NaF PET/CT scans were obtained at baseline (PET1), week 13 (PET2), and at the time of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) progression, standard radiographic or clinical progression, or at 2 years without progression (PET3). QTBI was used to determine lesion-level response. The primary end point was the proportion of men with at least one responding bone lesion on PET3 using QTBI. RESULTS Twenty-three men were enrolled. Duration on treatment ranged from 1.4 to 34.1 months. In general, global standardized uptake value (SUV) metrics decreased while on enzalutamide (PET2) and increased at the time of progression (PET3). The most robust predictor of PSA progression was change in SUVhetero (PET1 to PET3; hazard ratio, 3.88; 95% CI, 1.24 to 12.1). Although overall functional disease burden improved during enzalutamide treatment, an increase in total burden (SUVtotal) was seen at the time of progression, as measured by 18F-NaF PET/CT. All (22/22) evaluable men had at least one responding bone lesion at PET3 using QTBI. CONCLUSION We found that the proportion of progressing lesions was low, indicating that a substantial number of lesions appear to continue to benefit from enzalutamide beyond progression. Selective targeting of nonresponding lesions may be a reasonable approach to extend benefit.

Urea granules were coated with CMC-g-cl-PAA hydrogel by in situ spraying and polymerization technique with mean thickness of 0.24 mm. Water absorption capacity of hydrogel coated urea granules varied from 18.67 to 217.33 g/g depending on pH. Urea release was extended due to hydrogel coating and kinetic analysis at different pH (4.0, 7.0 and 9.2) revealed a sigmoid function as best fit model. The coated urea granules showed pH triggered release property with higher rate in alkaline medium and slower in acidic medium. The prepared hydrogel coated urea granules may find its application in integrated water and nutrient management strategies in agriculture.

Environmental concerns related to synthetic pesticides and the emphasis on the adoption of an integrated pest management concept as a cardinal principle have strengthened the focus of global research and development on botanical pesticides. A scientific understanding of the mode of action of biomolecules over a range of pests is key to the successful development of biopesticides. The present investigation focuses on the in silico protein-ligand interactions of allyl isothiocyanate (AITC), a major constituent of black mustard (Brassica nigra) essential oil (MEO) against two pests, namely, Meloidogyne incognita (Mi) and Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. lycopersici (Fol), that cause severe yield losses in agricultural crops, especially in vegetables. The in vitro bioassay results of MEO against Mi exhibited an exposure time dependent on the lethal concentration causing 50% mortality (LC50) values of 47.7, 30.3, and 20.4 μg ml−1 at 24, 48, and 72 h of exposure, respectively. The study revealed short-term nematostatic activity at lower concentrations, with nematicidal activity at higher concentrations upon prolonged exposure. Black mustard essential oil displayed excellent in vitro Fol mycelial growth inhibition, with an effective concentration to cause 50% inhibition (EC50) value of 6.42 μg ml−1. In order to decipher the mechanism of action of MEO, its major component, AITC (87.6%), which was identified by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS), was subjected to in silico docking and simulation studies against seven and eight putative target proteins of Mi and Fol, respectively. Allyl isothiocyanate exhibited the highest binding affinity with the binding sites of acetyl cholinesterase (AChE), followed by odorant response gene-1 (ODR1) and neuropeptide G-protein coupled receptor (nGPCR) in Mi, suggesting the possible suppression of neurotransmission and chemosensing functions. Among the target proteins of Fol, AITC was the most effective protein in blocking chitin synthase (CS), followed by 2,3-dihydroxy benzoic acid decarboxylase (6m53) and trypsinase (1try), thus inferring these as the principal molecular targets of fungal growth. Taken together, the study establishes the potential of MEO as a novel biopesticide lead, which will be utilized further to manage the Mi–Fol disease complex.

Root-knot nematode, Meloidogyne incognita is one of the most destructive nematodes worldwide. Essential oils (EOs) are being extensively utilized as eco-benign bionematicides, although the precise mechanism of action remains unclear. Pogostemon cablin Benth. is well-known as "Patchouli". It is native to South East Asia and known for ethno-pharmacological properties. In this study, chemical composition and potential nematicidal effect of EOs hydrodistilled from the leaves of P. cablin grown at three different locations in India were comprehensively investigated to correlate their mechanism of action for target specific binding affinities toward nematode proteins. Aromatic volatile Pogostemon essential oils (PEO) from Northern India (PEO-NI), Southern India (PEO-SI) and North Eastern India (PEO-NEI) were analyzed by Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC/MS) to characterize forty volatile compounds. Maximum thirty-three components were identified in PEO-NEI. Sesquiterpenes were predominant with higher content of α-guaiene (2.3-24.4 %), patchoulol (6.1-32.7 %) and α-bulnesene (5.9-27.1 %). Patchoulol was the major component in PEO-SI (32.7±1.2 %) and PEO-NEI (29.2±1.1 %), while α-guaiene in PEO-NI (24.4±1.2 %). In vitro nematicidal assay revealed significant nematicidal action (LC50 44.6-87.0 μg mL-1 ) against juveniles of M. incognita within 24 h exposure. Mortality increases with increasing time to 48 h (LC50 33.6-71.6 μg mL-1 ) and 72 h (LC50 27.7-61.2 μg mL-1 ). Molecular modelling and in silico studies revealed multi-modal inhibitive action of α-bulnesene (-22 to -13 kJ mol-1 ) and α-guaiene (-22 to -12 kJ mol-1 ) against three target proteins namely, acetyl cholinesterase (AChE), odorant response gene-1 (ODR1), odorant response gene-3 (ODR3). Most preferable binding mechanism was observed against AChE due to pi-alkyl, pi-sigma, and hydrophobic interactions. Structure nematicidal activity relationship suggested the presence of hydroxy group for nematicidal activity is nonessential, rather highly depends on synergistic composition of sesquiterpene hydrocarbons.

Contaminations of heavy metals such as lead (Pb) and cadmium (Cd) in medicinal plants (MPs) not only restrict their safe consumption due to health hazards but also lower their productivity. Biochar amendments in the soil are supposed to immobilize the toxic metals, improve the soil quality and agricultural productivity. However, the impact of biochar on growth attributes, metal accumulation, pharmacologically active compounds of MPs, and health risk is less explored. An experiment was performed on three medicinal plants (Bacopa monnieri (L.), Andrographis paniculata (Burmf.) Nees, and Withaniasomnifera (L.)) grown in a greenhouse in soil co-contaminated with Pb and Cd (at two concentrations) without and with biochar amendments (2 and 4% application rates). The fractionation of Pb and Cd, plant growth parameters, stress enzymes, photosynthetic capacity, pharmacologically active compounds, nutrient content, uptake and translocation of metals, antioxidant activities, and metabolite content were examined in the three MPs. The accumulation of Pb and Cd varied from 3.25-228 mg kg1 and 1.29-20.2 mg kg-1 , respectively, in the three MPs, while it was reduced to 0.08-18 mg kg-1 and 0.03-6.05 mg kg-1 upon biochar treatments. Plants grown in Pb and Cd co-contaminated soil had reduced plant biomass (5-50% depending on the species) compared to control and a deleterious effect on photosynthetic attributes and protein content. However, biochar amendments significantly improved plant biomass (21-175%), as well as photosynthesis attributes, chlorophyll, and protein contents. Biochar amendments in Pb and Cd co-contaminated soil significantly reduced the health hazard quotient (HQ) estimated for the consumption of these medicinal herbs grown on metal-rich soil. An enhancement in secondary metabolite content and antioxidant properties was also observed upon biochar treatments. These multiple beneficial effects of biochar supplementation in Pb and Cd co-contaminated soil suggested that a biochar amendment is a sustainable approach for the safe cultivation of MPs. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

The aim of this work was to study the application of genetic algorithm (GA) in modelling and optimization of cellulose production by Trichoderma reesei from pea hull. Enzyme activity of cellulase was determined using Filter Paper Activity (FPA) assay. Optimization of process parameters was performed using mathematical (MO) and genetic optimizers to obtain combination of variables for highest possible enzyme activity. GA generated a higher value of cellulase activity (0.353 U/mL) as compared to MO (0.302 U/mL). The values of independent variables in set (GA, MO) were: agitation speed (127, 120 rpm), %H2O2 concentration (10.36, 5.0), cultivation time (112, 91 h). The investigation highlights that GA could be used as a potential optimizer for processes involving waste utilization.

Boric acid crosslinked carboxymethyl cellulose hydrogels were synthesized to develop pH-triggered release formulations (pH-TRFs) of boron and thiamethoxam. The developed hydrogels showed pH sensitive water absorption capacity (16.75 to 110.80 g/g xerogel). Entrapment of thiamethoxam was done through an ex-situ loading technique. The boron and thiamethoxam release was studied in pH buffer solutions (4.0, 7.0 and 9.2). Release kinetics analysis using mathematical models showed fast release in high pH solution as compared to acidic pH. These pH-TRFs may find usefulness in selective release of nutrients and pesticides in plant rhizospheric zone of problem soils viz. acidic soils and alkaline soils.

The current study reports on in vitro propagation and conservation of critically endangered medicinal plant Swertia chirayita. The sterilized explants (leaves) were cultured on Murashige and Skoog’s (MS) medium supplemented with 0.1 mg/L naphthalene acetic acid (NAA) and 3.0 mg/L benzyl adenine (BA) for callus induction, the same medium was used for shoot regeneration and for direct shoot regeneration from in vitro leaves. For in vitro multiplication shoots were cultured on MS medium supplemented with 2.5 mg/L benzyl adenine and 0.1 mg/L Kinetin (Kn). MS half strength medium supplemented with 400 mg/L activated charcoal and 0.1 mg/L naphthalene acetic acid showed 80.30% root induction from in vitro grown shoots. The in vitro raised plantlets were successfully acclimatized. All the regenerated plantlets appeared normal with 70–80% survival rate, while In vitro conservation was carried out by using two different approaches namely slow growth by changing media composition (sucrose and abscisic acid) at low temperature and cryopreservation following vitrification. With increase in concentration of sucrose and ABA decrease in growth of in vitro shoots was observed. At low temperature the in vitro shoots incubated at 4 and 10 °C both showed 100% retrieval. During studies the vitrified shoot gave retrieval of 42.33% when pre-cooled at 4 °C while only 22.77% vitrified shoots were retrieved from those pre-cooled at 10 °C.

In this study, poly-(lactic-co-glycolic) acid (PLGA) was conjugated with aspartic acid and was characterized by nuclear magnetic resonance and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. Docetaxel-loaded polymeric micelles were prepared, and piperine was tagged. The neuroblastoma cytotoxicity studies revealed a substantially higher cytotoxic potential of the developed system to that of plain docetaxel, which was further corroborated by cellular uptake employing confocal laser scanning microscopy. The hemocompatible system was able to enhance the pharmacokinetic profile in terms of 6.5-fold increment in bioavailability followed by a 3.5 times increase in the retention time in comparison with the plain drug. The single-point brain bioavailability of docetaxel was amplified by 3.3-folds, signifying a better uptake and distribution to brain employing these carriers. The findings are unique as the physically adsorbed piperine was released before the DTX, increasing the propensity of curbing the CYP3A4 enzyme, which plays a vital role in the degradation of docetaxel. Meanwhile, piperine might have compromised the P-gp efflux mechanism, which can be ascribed to the enhanced retention of the drug at the target site. The elevated target site concentrations and extended residence by a biocompatible nanocarrier supplemented with co-delivery of piperine inherit immense promises to deliver this BCS class IV drug more safely and effectively.

Biocompatible and biodegradable polymers like PLGA have revolutionized the drug delivery approaches. However, poor drug loading and substantially high lipophilicity, pave a path for further tailing of this promising agent. In this regard, PLGA was feathered with biocompatible phospholipid and polymeric micelles were developed for delivery of Methotrexate (MTX) to cancer cells. The nanocarriers (114.6nm±5.5nm) enhanced the cytotoxicity of MTX by 2.13 folds on MDA-MB-231 cells. Confocal laser scanning microscopy confirmed the increased intracellular delivery. The carrier decreased the protein binding potential and enhanced the bioavailable fraction of MTX. Pharmacokinetic studies vouched substantial enhancement in AUC and bioresidence time, promising an ideal carrier to effectively deliver the drug to the site of action. The developed nanocarriers offer potential to deliver the drug in the interiors of cancer cells in an effective manner for improved therapeutic action.

Biopolymeric clay hydrogels composites, synthesized from crosslinking of carboxymethyl cellulose with citric acid in the presence of bentonite, were used to develop base triggered release formulations (TRFs) of thiamethoxam (3-(2-chloro-1,3-thiazol-5-ylmethyl)-5-methyl-1,3,5-oxadiazinan-4-ylidene(nitro)amine) through an ex-situ encapsulation technique. Hydrogels, hydrogel-bentonite composites and their formulations were characterized by 1H NMR, IR spectroscopy, XRD, and SEM-EDS. Triggered release of thiamethoxam from the developed formulations was studied in water (pH 7-11) with the help of HPLC and subjected to kinetics analysis using different models. The kinetics study showed the release from developed TRFs followed Gallagher-Corrigan equation with an immediate burst release phenomena and higher release rate of thiamethoxam was observed at alkaline pH than neutral condition (pH 7.0). These TRFs of thiamethoxam may be useful for the efficient control of insects which are having alkaline pH in their gut.

In this work, hydrochloric acid, phosphoric acid, nitric acid and sulphuric acid were screened for their relative potential for hydrolysis of damaged wheat grains. Inhibitor concentration and reducing sugar were taken as performance parameters. Concentration of four inhibitors namely, furfural, 5-hydroxymethyl furfural, acetic acid and formic acid were measured by high pressure liquid chromatography. Initial screening demonstrated that HCl was the most potent acid for hydrolysis. Subsequent experiments with different substrate (10 %, 15 %, 20 % w/w) and acid concentrations (1%, 3%, 5% w/v) were carried out to identify suitable hydrolysis condition for maximum conversion of substrate to reducing sugars (RS). Results showed that 3% HCl with 15 % substrate concentration produced highest RS (116.29 mg/mL) after 45 min of hydrolysis. Early formation of inhibitors was observed at 5% HCl which diminished the RS formation. Although hydrolysis with 1% HCl yielded RS comparable to that of 3% HCl concentration, the time of hydrolysis was higher. Artificial neural network (ANN) and second-order models were applied to the experimental data to map the variation in RS with hydrolysis. ANN performed well in predicting RS after hydrolysis with good accuracy (R2 = 0.939). The obtained model can be used to predict the variation in RS over a wide range of process variables thereby making the selection of hydrolysis process parameters easier.

A series of novel superabsorbent hydrogel composites, poly(CMC-g-cl-PAam/Zeolite) (ZSAPC) were prepared by in situ graft polymerization using a cellulosic backbone, acrylamide and natural zeolite. The swelling and deswelling behavior of the prepared composites was evaluated and analyzed by different empirical models. The composite with optimum water absorption capacity were impregnated with ZnSO4 in situ during polymerization reaction. Zincated composites showed less water absorption capacity as compared to non-zincated ones. Zinc release behavior of zincated test hydrogel composites was studied in water and soil. All the test compositions exhibited non-Fickian or anomalous transport (0.43

In present study, yeast strains YGM1 and YGM2 were evaluated and the selected strain YGM1 was evaluated for its ethanol producing efficiency using varying substrate combinations. Both strain YGM1 and YGM2 were able to grow in wide range of temperature from 25 to 40 °C. Based on cfu ml−1 and corresponding absorbance values of two, YGM1 was rapid multiplier and better performer at 37 °C. During fermentation, pH of the substrate first decreased and then increased. Alcohol producing ability of YGM1 in substrates; 100 % pomace, 75 % pomace, 25 % molasses, 25 % pomace: 75 % molasses and 100 % molasses was compared. Alcohol producing ability is directly related to sugar utilization maximum amount of ethanol, 5.02 % was produced in pomace: molasses (75 %:25 %) and minimum 2.33 % in 100 % molasses. Maximum ethanol production, 5.02 % corresponded to maximum sugar utilization (11.31 %) in the 75 % pomace: 25 % molasses. Thus out of four combinations, 75 % pomace: 25 % molasses was better substrate for alcohol production.

Although dietary restriction (DR) is known to extend lifespan across species, from yeast to mammals, the signalling events downstream of food/nutrient perception are not well understood. In Caenorhabditis elegans, DR is typically attained either by using the eat-2 mutants that have reduced pharyngeal pumping leading to lower food intake or by feeding diluted bacterial food to the worms. In this study, we show that knocking down a mammalian MEKK3-like kinase gene, mekk-3 in C. elegans, initiates a process similar to DR without compromising food intake. This DR-like state results in upregulation of beta-oxidation genes through the nuclear hormone receptor NHR-49, a HNF-4 homolog, resulting in depletion of stored fat. This metabolic shift leads to low levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS), potent oxidizing agents that damage macromolecules. Increased beta-oxidation, in turn, induces the phase I and II xenobiotic detoxification genes, through PHA-4/FOXA, NHR-8 and aryl hydrocarbon receptor AHR-1, possibly to purge lipophilic endotoxins generated during fatty acid catabolism. The coupling of a metabolic shift with endotoxin detoxification results in extreme longevity following mekk-3 knock-down. Thus, MEKK-3 may function as an important nutrient sensor and signalling component within the organism that controls metabolism. Knocking down mekk-3 may signal an imminent nutrient crisis that results in initiation of a DR-like state, even when food is plentiful.

Processing of fruit juices is required for its preservation and extended shelf life. Guava, which is mostly consumed as a fresh fruit possess many nutritional qualities which must be preserved if to be processed for future consumption. In this study, guava juice is processed using chemical preservative (Sodium benzoate) and induction pasteurization. The quality parameters of the pasteurized juice viz. pH, Total soluble solid (TSS), titrable acidity, ascorbic acid, total sugar, Total colour difference (TCD) and microbial count were studied. The process parameters have optimized using Box-Behnken design of Response surface methodology (RSM). It was found that the independent parameters viz. concentration of sodium benzoate, pasteurization temperature and pasteurization time, significantly (p

Desmostachya bipinnata, Gramineae (Poaceae) family, has been traditionally used in treatment of various disorders like asthma, kidney stone, diarrhoea, wound healing etc. Several extracts of Desmostachya bipinnata were prepared. Ex-vivo estimation of contractile responses of guinea pig ileum were measured for prepared extracts against histamine and compared with chlorphenirame. All the extracts were able to contract guinea pig ileum while alcoholic extract was superior among all. Such results indicated that prepared extract possess good anti-histaminic activity, which was further confirmed with histamine induced lethality test. Histamine induced lethality in guinea pigs was prevented when the extracts were administered prior to histamine injection in guinea pigs. Hence, it is concluded that the extracts possess anti-histaminic activity and may possess anti-asthmatic potential.

Borax (Na2B4O7, 10.5% Boron) loaded CMC-g-cl-poly(AAm) hydrogel composites were prepared by in situ grafting of acrylamide on to sodium carboxymethyl cellulose in the presence of borax by free radical polymerization technique to develop slow boron (B) delivery device. The composition, morphology, and mechanical properties of synthesized composites were studied by X-ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, texture analyser, and dynamic shear rheometer. Characterization revealed formation of borate ion ( BO33−) from borax during polymerization reaction leading to extensive crosslinking of cellulosic chains and generation of mechanically strong composite hydrogels. Dynamic release of BO33− from the synthesized composites hydrogels followed Fickian diffusion mechanism and composites with high mechanical strength resulted in slow release of B. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2016, 133, 43969.

Rapid industrialization accompanied by dwindling petroleum reserves has intensified global fuel and energy crises. Thus emphasis is on search for alternative sources of energy. In recent years, alcohol has emerged as an alternative fuel and energy source. Alcohol is the product of fermentation of various sugar substrates. Since fermentation is the property of various yeast species. Therefore, research is being carried all over world for selecting high yielding fermenting yeast and cheaper substrate. In view of above, experiments were designed to compare alcohol producing efficacy of indigenously isolated yeast cultures Y5-1 and Y5-2 with that of reference culture of Saccharomyces cereviseae ATCC 9673 in solid state fermentation at 30 °C, 40 rpm for 5 days in three different substrate combinations. The production of ethanol in 75 % apple pomace: 25 % molasses inoculated with Y5-1 at 72 h and reference strain ATCC 9673 was comparable with production level of 6.07 and 6.21 % respectively. However, fermentation efficiency of Y5-1 was highest at 68.54 % as compared to Y5-2, 66.79 % and Y5-3, 60.77. Thus, indigenous yeast isolates prove to have potential for use in alcohol production from agro-processing waste.

The ability of an Oscillatoria sp.–dominated cyanobacterial mat in sorbing methylene blue (MB), a cationic dye, was investigated using the batch contact method. The sorption of MB onto the powdered biomass was not significantly influenced by initial pH (2–10) and temperature (5–45°C) of the solution. MB sorption occurred slowly, requiring 1–8 h for the establishment of equilibrium. A slow attainment of equilibrium seems to be related with the large size of MB ions. The isotherm data of MB sorption by the mat biomass could effectively fit to Langmuir and Freundlich models. The maximum MB sorption capacity (q max) of the test biomass was 78.43 mg g−1, which changed little with variation in biomass concentration. Moreover, the test biomass could efficiently sorb MB from solution in presence of Na+, K+, and Ca2+, which usually occur at high concentrations in natural waters, and also in presence of Cd2+. These particular characteristics together with pH and temperature independence of the sorption pro...

Random choice of generic carriers without proper understanding of biocontrol agent's behaviour and physiology in the existing formulations is a serious constraint leading to poor quality of bioformulations in general. This study reports the effect of gel carrier quality markers viz. pH and viscosity on the shelf life of an indigenous thermo-tolerant entomopathogenic nematode, Steinernema thermophilum. The pH of swollen gel matrix when less than 6 and more than 7 was detrimental to the biocontrol agent. Gel viscosity, in terms of consistency of the matrix at par with reference formulation ‘Pusa Nemagel’ was optimum to prolong shelf life of S. thermophilum. Among the thirteen test lipid metabolism arrestants (LMA), A1-derivative of benzoic acid was the o most promising against this EPN. Stored at 35C for three months, infective juveniles (IJs) exhibited maximum survival (50%) in the aqueous suspension treated with 10 ppm of A1 as compared to the aqueous suspension (36.89%). The finding was confirmed by Oil Red O staining technique, wherein the maximum number of stained IJs indicating stored lipid reserve in nematode body, were observed in A1 (10 ppm) treated suspension, thus establishing its efficiency as an effective lipid metabolism arrestant adjuvant for EPN formulations.

Aspartyl beta-semialdehyde dehydrogenase (ASADH) is an important enzyme, occupying the first branch position of the biosynthetic pathway of the aspartate family of amino acids in bacteria, fungi and higher plants. It catalyses reversible dephosphorylation of L: -beta-aspartyl phosphate (betaAP) to L: -aspartate-beta-semialdehyde (ASA), a key intermediate in the biosynthesis of diaminopimelic acid (DAP)-an essential component of cross linkages in bacterial cell walls. Since the aspartate pathway is unique to plants and bacteria, and ASADH is the key enzyme in this pathway, it becomes an attractive target for antimicrobial agent development. Therefore, with the objective of deducing comparative structural models, we have described a molecular model emphasizing the uniqueness of ASADH from Mycobacterium tuberculosis (H37Rv) that should generate insights into the structural distinctiveness of this protein as compared to structurally resolved ASADH from other bacterial species. We find that mtASADH exhibits structural features common to bacterial ASADH, while other structural motifs are not present. Structural analysis of various domains in mtASADH reveals structural conservation among all bacterial ASADH proteins. The results suggest that the probable mechanism of action of the mtASADH enzyme might be same as that of other bacterial ASADH. Analysis of the structure of mtASADH will shed light on its mechanism of action and may help in designing suitable antagonists against this enzyme that could control the growth of Mycobacterium tuberculosis.

A new series of eco-friendly cross linked guar gum-g-poly(acrylate) porous superabsorbent hydrogels was prepared by in situ grafting polymerization and cross-linking on to a natural guar gum employing N,N-methylene bis acrylamide as cross linker. Morphological and structural characterization of the prepared hydrogels (SPHs) done by Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and solid state C(13) NMR spectroscopy confirmed formation of porous grafted and crosslinked hydrogel structure. Increase in cross linker concentration in the feed mass exhibited decrease in porosity and increase in density of the hydrogels. Swelling of an optimized hydrogel (SPH) in response to external stimuli namely, salt solutions, fertilizer solutions, temperature, and pH exhibited high swelling ratios in various environments. Swelling rate of the SPH was faster than the corresponding nonporous superabsorbent hydrogel. The prepared hydrogels can serve as excellent carriers of pesticides, fertilizers and agriculturally important microbes. Biocontrol formulations based on a representative SPH exhibited excellent shelf-life characteristics and bioefficacy against phytopathogenic fungus Pythium aphanidermatum.

Antioxidant activity of polar methanolic extract of aerial parts of Ocimum sanctum using multiple screens was studied. Various concentrations of the standardized extract were examined for the free radical scavenging activity, superoxide radical scavenging potential and effect on nitric oxide production in RAW 264.7 mouse monocytes cell line. The results indicated that the O. sanctum extract has strong antioxidant activity. In the assay for free radical scavenging activity measured in terms of scavenging of DPPH (1,1-diphenyl-2-picryl hydrazyl) radical, the extract exhibited the IC50 of 94.51 ± 6.47 μg/ml. NBT reduction assay was used to measure the superoxide reducing capacity of the extract and the extract inhibited the NBT reduction with IC50 of 71.17 ± 8.13 μg/ml. Effect on nitrite production was tested in Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) activated RAW 264.7 mouse monocytes cell line. In this assay, biphasic response was observed for the extract. At lower concentration it stimulated nitrite production while at higher doses the nitrite production was suppressed (EC50 4.89 ± 0.47 μg/ml and IC50 66.67 ± 0.91 μg/ml). These results suggest that the antioxidant activity of O. sanctum may be partly responsible for its reported immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory effects. INTRODUCTION The role of free radical reactions in the disease pathology is well established suggesting that these reactions are necessary for normal metabolism and are detrimental to health as well (Harman, 1981). The diseases caused by these free radical reactions are atherosclerosis, ischaemic heart disease, ageing, inflammation, diabetes, immunosuppression, neurodegenerative diseases and some other diseased conditions (Harman, 1988; Maxwell, 1995). Ocimum sanctum, commonly used as Holy basil or sacred basil, is well known in India. Of all the Ocimum species, O. sanctum is most widely studied for its pharmacological properties. Traditionally, it has been used as diaphoretic, expectorant and hepatoprotective. It has been studied for its immunomodulatory (Godhwani et al., 1988), anti-hyperglycemic (Vats et al., 2002), antioxidant (Devi, 2001), antiinflammatory (Godhwani et al., 1987; Kelm et al., 2000), anti-stress and radioprotective effects (Gupta and Vishwanathan, 1955). Its anti-ulcer (Singh and Mujumdar, 1999) and anthelmintic (Asha et al., 2001) activities have also been reported. However, all these activities are carried out in vivo and the mechanism of action is still elusive. Since free radical involvement in various disorders is suggested, this paper is an attempt to give basis for various activities of O. sanctum. In the present paper, we studied standardized polar extract of O. sanctum for free radical scavenging activity, superoxide radical scavenging potential and effect on nitric oxide (NO) production. Proc. WOCMAP III. Vol. 4: Targeted Screening of MAPs, Economics & Law Eds. C. Franz, A. Mathe, L.E. Craker and Z.E. Gardner Acta Hort. 678, ISHS 2005 160 MATERIALS AND METHODS Plant Material For the purpose of present study, plant material was collected during the month of June 2001 from NIPER medicinal garden and surroundings. The Taxonomist, NIPER medicinal plants garden confirmed the identity. Specimen sample is deposited in Natural Products Department Herbarium. Chemicals 1,1-diphenyl-2-picryl hydazyl radical, dextran, zymosan and nitroblue tetrazolium (NBT) were purchased from Sigma Chemical Co. (St. Louis, MO, USA); RPMI-1640 media, glutamine, gentamicin and fetal bovine serum (FBS) were purchased from Himedia Ltd. (Mumbai, India). Escherichia coli 026:B6 lipopolysaccharide was purchased from Difco (Detroit, MI, USA). Free Radical Scavenging Activity Free radical scavenging capacity of the plant materials was determined using DPPH. A methanolic DPPH solution (0.15%) was mixed with different concentrations of extracts and fractions and after 10 min. the absorbance was read at 515 nm using spectrophotometer (Perkin Elmer Lambda 20 UV visible spectrophotometer). Inhibition curve was plotted and IC50 value was obtained (Viturro et al., 1999). NBT Reduction Assay The assay was carried out by the modified procedure described earlier (Richardson et al., 1998). Fresh heparinised blood from healthy volunteers was used for the isolation of polymorphonuclear cells (PMNs). By dextran sedimentation method (6% dextran) PMNs were isolated and suspended in RPMI-1640 medium supplemented with 10% heat inactivated FBS. From this suspension, 1 x 10 cells were taken and incubated with different concentrations of the extract for 5 min. To this, NBT (0.5 mg/ml; 200 μl), opsonised zymosan (4 mg/ml; 100 μl) were added and incubated at 37°C for 30 min. After incubation, the reaction was quenched by 1 N HCl. The formazan formed can be extracted with organic solvent and the absorbance is read at 520 nm. Control was run simultaneously using medium instead of extract. Ascorbic acid was used as the standard. The percentage inhibition of NBT reduction was calculated by the formula % inhibition of NBT reduction = (Control sample) x 100

Polarography has been used as a tool for controlling the electropolishing of p-type Bi0.5Sb1.5Te3.0 and n-type Bi2Se0.3Te2.7: 0.2 wt.% SbI3 semiconducting materials used in thermoelectric coolers at particular current density in terms of electropolished film thickness preceded by the electroetching of these materials in suitable electrolytes, by measuring the diffusion current for the reduction of Sb and Se ions at dropping mercury electrode (DME) from electropolishing electrolytes for the p-type and n-type materials respectively. In addition, I–V measurements for correlating the current density with the growth of the electropolished film for these n-type and p-type semiconductors have been carried out.

Prostate cancer (PCa) is one of the leading causes of death in men across the world. Despite the initial success of androgen ablation therapy, resistance to anti-androgen therapy manifests by progression to castration resistant prostate cancer (CRPC), which is the end stage that accounts for the majority of PCa patient deaths. Docetaxel (DTX) is an approved drug for the treatment of CRPC. However, development of DTX resistance and toxicity are the major limitations in the use of DTX in the treatment of CRPC. Now we investigated to determine whether these limitations may be overcome by combining DTX with plumbagin (PL). PL is a quinoid constituent isolated from the root of Plumbago zeylanica L. The roots of Plumbago zeylanica L. have been used in Indian medicine for more than 2500 years for treatment of various ailments. We were the first to report that PL inhibits the growth and PCa metastasis. Now we present that PL: 1) sensitizes CRPC cells to DTX and thus reduces its effective therapeutic dose to prevent DTX resistance and toxicity, and 2) inhibits the viability and growth of DTX resistant cells (22Rv1R). In combination therapeutic experiments, the effects of different concentrations of PL (0, 1.0, 2.0, and 5.0 μM) alone or in combination with DTX (0.25 nM and 0.5 nM) on colony formation in 22Rv1 and C4-2 prostate cancer cells, was determined. Combined treatment of PL and DTX has more than additive inhibitory effects on colony formation. This synergism of PL and DTX on colony formation can be explained on the basis of unique mechanism of action of PL and DTX. PL-induced inhibition of PCa growth and metastasis involves inhibition of the expression of multiple targets including PKCϵ, which correlates with the aggressiveness of PCa and plays roles in both androgen independent androgen receptor (AR) activation and promotion of PCa cell survival. DTX targets microtubules, impairs AR signaling, and inhibits cell division. To determine the effects of PL on DTX resistant PCa cells, we established DTX-resistant 22Rv1 cell line (22Rv1R). 22Rv1R overexpresses multidrug resistant protein 1 (MDR1, also known as P-glycoprotein). MDR1 is overexpressed in many tumors and thus causing intrinsic drug resistant. Transcription factor NF-KB, which is linked to cell proliferation and survival, is also activated in 22Rv1R. PL inhibited the colony forming efficiency of 22Rv1R cells which accompanied inhibition of MDR1 expression and NF-KB activation. In summary, the results presented here and the ones reported by us previously with preclinical mouse models (TRAMP and PTEN knockout mice) of PCa indicate that PL has the potential to prevent as well as treat PCa. PL is a potential natural agent worthy of investigation for prevention and treatment of human PCa. (Support: NIH grant CA102431). Citation Format: Ashok Singh, Anupama Singh, Satyamedha Bathula, Saivenkateshkomal Bathula, Ajit K. Verma. Plumbagin, a medicinal plant-derived naphthoquinone, inhibits the growth of docetaxel resistant prostate cancer cells via inhibition of the expression of P-glycoprotein and NF-kB activation. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 107th Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2016 Apr 16-20; New Orleans, LA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2016;76(14 Suppl):Abstract nr 2142.

To nutritionally enrich the apple pomace biscuits, optimized apple pomace-black soybean flour-wheat flour mix was added. Levels of ingredients were optimized in apple pomace biscuits, black soybean flour biscuits and apple pomace : soy flour (50 : 50) biscuits. Apple pomace/soy flour/apple pomace : soy flour, baking powder, sodium bicarbonate and ammonium bicarbonate were the four optimized variables based on the result obtained from the four responses selected i.e. physical parameter % spread factor, rehological parameters hardness and fracturability and sensory parameter overall acceptability.

Aim This study aimed to establish the pharmacognostical characteristics of leaf, stem and root of Vernonia cinerea, Asteraceae (ash-coloured fleabane), and to verify the anti-inflammatory and antibacterial activities of various extracts of the stem. Background V. cinerea (Asteraceae) is traditionally used to treat inflammation, diarrhoea, cough, smoking cessation, asthma, Parkinson's disease and leprosy. Materials and methods Leaf, stem and root and their powders were examined microscopically, and pharmacognostic standardization parameters were determined according to WHO guidelines. Extracts of different organs of the plant in petroleum ether, chloroform, ethanol, ethanol (50%) and water were prepared and examined by thin-layer chromatography. An antibacterial assay of the stem extracts for Staphylococcus aureus was performed. The anti-inflammatory activity of the same extracts was studied using a carrageenan-induced paw oedema model in Wistar rats. Results and conclusion Microscopic characterization of the different organs of the plant indicated the presence of trichomes, arrangement of vascular bundles (stem: radial, root: scattered), anomocytic and diacytic stomata, and wavy epidermal cells in stomata. The antibacterial assay indicated a zone of inhibition of 20 ± 0 and 19.33 ± 0.33 mm with alcoholic and chloroform extracts of V. cinerea leaf, respectively (extracts of stem showed a zone of inhibition of 21.00 ± 0.57 and 21.00 ± 0.57 mm, respectively). Diclofenac sodium and chloroform extract showed 11.11% inhibition of inflammation, whereas 16.66 and 13.33% inhibition were observed with alcoholic and hydroalcoholic extracts, respectively. Microscopic and pharmacognostic parameters aid in the identification and characterization of different organs of the plant. Traditional claims of antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory activities of the stem have been verified. Various extracts showed significant results for anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial action.

Weaning mix was developed from underutilized crops of Uttarakhand (finger millet, barnyard millet, black soybean, amaranth grain). Malting and fermentation were adopted as ways of improving cereal protein quality and decreasing anti-nutritional property and probiotic weaning mix was produced using probiotic strain Lactobacillus plantarum. Box-benkhen design of response surface methodology was used to design the experiments design for three variables with three levels [blend ratio (cereals: legume:: 50:50, 60:40, 70:30), fermentation time (12 h, 24 h, 36 h), inoculums concentration (1%, 3%, 5%] and four responses (protein, tannin, water absorption capacity, water absorption index). The probiotic fermentation resulted in favourable changes in nutritionl profile of weaning mix resulting 48.2% increase in protein and 92.3% decrease in tannin content. The optimized set of independent variables (cereals (FM+BM): legume: 70:30 fermented for 25 h with 2.9% inoculum concentration) obtained after statistical analysis, was used to develop final probiotic weaning mix.

Background: Strychnos nux-vomica , commonly known as kuchla , contains strychnine and brucine as main constituents. Minor alkaloids present in the seeds are protostrychnine, vomicine, n -oxystrychnine, pseudostrychnine, isostrychnine, chlorogenic acid, and a glycoside. Seeds are used traditionally to treat diabetes, asthma, aphrodisiac and to improve appetite. Objective: The present study was aimed to evaluate the various pharmacognostical characters and antidiabetic activity of S. nux-vomica seed. Materials and Methods: Pharmacognostical characters were performed as per the WHO guideline. Extraction was carried out in petroleum ether, chloroform, alcohol, hydroalcoholic, aqueous, and phytochemical constituents present in extracts were detected by different chemical tests. Among these extracts hydroalcoholic, aqueous extracts were evaluated for antidiabetic activity on the basis of extractive yield and phytoconstituents, in alloxan-induced diabetic rats using gliclazide as standard. Results: Various analytical values of S. nux-vomica extract were established. Phytoconstituents present in S. nux-vomica extracts were detected. Conclusion: S. nux-vomica extracts show antihyperglycemic activity in experimental animals.