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Abstract Cocaine, an addictive drug, is known to induce hepatotoxicity via oxidative damage and proapoptosis. Since p53, a tumor suppressor gene, plays a major role in inducing oxidative stress and apoptosis, we examined the role of p53 inhibition against cocaine-induced hepatotoxicity. Cocaine treatment significantly increased oxidative parameters (i.e., reactive oxygen species, 4-hydroxylnonenal, and protein carbonyl) in the liver of wild type (WT) mice. We found that the pharmacological (i.e. pifithrin-α) and genetic (i.e. p53 knockout) inhibition of p53 significantly attenuates cocaine-induced hepatotoxicity. Cocaine treatment increased alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) levels in the serum of mice, signifying hepatic damage. Consistently, these increases were attenuated by inhibition of p53, implying protection against cocaine-induced hepatic damage. In addition, cocaine treatment significantly increased PKCδ, cleaved PKCδ and p53 levels in the liver of WT mice. These increases were followed by the interaction between p53 and PKCδ, and pro-apoptotic consequences (i.e., cytosolic release of cytochrome c , activation of caspase-3, increase in Bax level and decreases in Bcl-2 and Bcl-xL levels). These changes were attenuated by p53 depletion, reflecting that the critical role of PKCδ in p53-mediated apoptotic potentials. Combined, our results suggest that the inhibition of p53 is important for protection against oxidative burdens, pro-apoptotic events, and hepatic degeneration induced by cocaine. Graphical abstract Image 1 Highlight • Cocaine induces hepatotoxicity in mice via oxidative stress and p53 activation. • Interaction of p53 and PKCδ might be important for p53-mediated toxic potentials. • p53 knockout or PFT-α attenuates hepatotoxic outcomes induced by cocaine in mice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Ultra reliable life support is needed for environmental control and life support systems (ECLSS) of space stations (SS) because provisioning of spare parts or a speedy crew recovery may not be a feasible option. There is limited work on the reliability modeling and analysis (RMA) of ECLSS of a SS. In addition, presently the literature review on RMA of space stations which is the central theme of the paper is not organized in a formalized manner and the ideas presented are spread out and limited in developing a consolidated literature review in a sequential manner. The paper presents a detailed literature survey on the RMA of SS ECLSS. The paper also highlights the research gaps and an overview of latest RMA models that can be applied for the reliability analysis of SS ECLSS. The paper contributes by providing sufficient insights into the complete development of RMA of the SS ECLSS comprehensively for better understanding of the readers. Highlights • Literature review papers on the subject are limited in the literature. • The paper presents a consolidated literature review in a sequential manner. • Review on reliability basic, prediction, estimation and optimization models. • Research gaps and an overview of latest reliability analysis models are covered. • The paper provides due insights into the subject for better understanding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aims: Pulmonary aspiration of gastric contents is a serious complication of anaesthesia. The aim of this study was to determine, with the help of ultrasound, the gastric volume and content in fasted patients presenting for elective surgeries and correlate the results with fasting times and co-morbidities of the patients. Methods: The study was conducted in 100 adult patients presenting for elective surgery. A preoperative bedside gastric ultrasound scan was done in supine and right lateral position. Gastric contents were noted, and gastric volume was calculated at the level of the gastric antrum. Gastric volume was estimated by measuring antral cross-sectional area (CSA) and using a mathematical model. Gastric volume in the right lateral decubitus (RLD) position was taken as the final reading. Analysis of variance and Student's t-test were done for statistical significance and P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: Six out of 100 patients had solid gastric contents and 16 had >1.5 ml/kg clear liquids, although they had been fasting between 10 and 15 hours. Patients suffering from diabetes and chronic kidney disease had statistically significant increase in CSA in both supine and RLD. We also found increase in estimated gastric volume as the BMI of the patients increased. Conclusion: Our study showed that fasting for more than 6-10 hours does not guarantee an empty stomach. Those with co-morbidities like diabetes mellitus, obesity and chronic kidney disease (CKD) appear more prone to have unsafe gastric contents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Coptidis rhizome contains several alkaloids that are bioactive agents of therapeutic value. We propose an eco-friendly method to synthesize biocompatible silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using the aqueous extract of Coptidis rhizome. Silver ions were reduced to AgNPs using the aqueous extract of Coptidis rhizome, indicating that Coptidis rhizome can be used for the biosynthesis of AgNPs. The time and the concentration required for conversion of silver ions into AgNPs was optimized using UV-absorbance spectroscopy and inductively coupled plasma spectroscopy (ICP). Biosynthesized AgNPs showed a distinct UV-Visible absorption peak at 420 nm. ICP analysis showed that the time required for the completion of biosynthesis was around 20 min. Microscopic images showed that nanoparticles synthesized were of spherical shape and the average diameter of biosynthesized AgNPs was less than 30 nm. XRD analysis also confirmed the size of AgNps and revealed their crystalline nature. The interaction of AgNPs with phytochemicals present in Coptidis rhizome extract was observed in FTIR analysis. The antimicrobial property of AgNPs was evaluated using turbidity measurements. Coptidis rhizome-mediated biosynthesized AgNPs showed significant anti-bacterial activities against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus that are commonly involved in various types of infections, indicating their potential as an effective anti-bacterial agent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses the study "Effect of High-Dose Omega-3 Fatty Acids vs. Corn Oil on Major Adverse Cardiovascular Events in Patients at High Cardiovascular Risk: The STRENGTH Randomized Clinical Trial" by S. J. Nicholls and colleagues, that was published with the issue. It highlights the results of the Long-Term Outcomes Study to Assess Statin Residual Risk With Epanova (STRENGTH) and the Reduction of Cardiovascular Events with Icosapent Ethyl-Intervention Trial (REDUCE-IT).

Understanding antibiotic use in dairy systems is critical to guide antimicrobial stewardship programs. We investigated antibiotic use practices in small-holder dairy farms, antibiotic quality, and antimicrobial resistance (AMR) awareness among veterinary drug retailers in a mixed farming community in the central Kenyan highlands. Data were collected from 248 dairy farms and 72 veterinary drug stores between February 2020 and October 2021. A scale was developed to measure knowledge about AMR and antibiotic use using item response theory, and regression models were used to evaluate factors associated with antibiotic use and AMR knowledge. The active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) content of 27 antibiotic samples was determined using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). The presence and levels of 11 antibiotic residues in 108 milk samples collected from the study farms were also investigated using liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC–MS/MS). Almost all farms (98.8%, n = 244) reported using antibiotics at least once in the last year, mostly for therapeutic reasons (35.5%). The most used antibiotics were tetracycline (30.6%), penicillin (16.7%), and sulfonamide (9.4%), either individually or in combination, and predominantly in the injectable form. Larger farm size (OR = 1.02, p < 0.001) and history of vaccination use (OR = 1.17, p < 0.001) were significantly associated with a higher frequency of antibiotic use. Drug retailers who advised on animal treatments had a significantly higher mean knowledge scores than those who only sold drugs. We found that 44.4% (12/27) of the tested antibiotics did not meet the United States Pharmacopeial test specifications (percentage of label claim). We detected nine antibiotics in milk, including oxytetracycline, sulfamethoxazole, and trimethoprim. However, only three samples exceeded the maximum residue limits set by the Codex Alimentarius Commission. Our findings indicate that antibiotics of poor quality are accessible and used in small-holder dairy systems, which can be found in milk. These results will aid future investigations on how to promote sustainable antibiotic use practices in dairy systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The aim of this study was to purify and characterize bacteriocin from the soil isolate Bacillus subtilis GAS101, and to determine its antimicrobial as well as antibiofilm potential. The purified bacteriocin was further analyzed and evaluated for mammalian cell cytotoxicity and the possible mode of action. Material and Methods: Bacteriocin from B. subtilis GAS101 (an animal husbandry soil isolate) was partially purified and checked for antimicrobial and antibiofilm activity against gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria. The molecular weight of bacteriocin was determined using tricine SDS-PAGE gel. The stability of bacteriocin was investigated at various temperatures and pH levels, and its sensitivity towards 8 enzymes and 6 chemicals was determined. Cytotoxicity analysis was performed on a Vero cell line by a tetrazolium dye-based assay. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) of bacteriocin-treated bacteria was carried out to determine the possible mode of action. Results: Bacteriocin from B. subtilis GAS101 was a potential inhibitor of both the indicator organisms (Staphylococcus epidermidis and Escherichia coli), and had a molecular weight of approximately 6.5 kDa. An in situ gel assay showed a zone of inhibition corresponding to the estimated protein band size. Bacteriocin was stable and showed antibacterial activity in broad ranges of temperature (30–121°C) and pH (2–12). It was sensitive to 4 proteolytic enzymes, which indicated its proteinaceous nature. Bacteriocin showed > 70% cell viability on the mammalian Vero cell line. SEM depicted that the bacteriocin was able to disrupt the bacterial cell membrane as its probable mode of action. Conclusion: Thermostable and pH-tolerant bacteriocin from B. subtilis GAS101, of about 6.5 kDa, showed broad-spectrum antimicrobial and antibiofilm activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this article we introduce the concept of strongly r-clean ring. The ring R is said to be strongly r-clean ring if every element of R is sum of a regular element and an idempotent which commute with each other which is a generalization of strongly r-clean ring. Further, we study various properties of the strongly r-clean rings. Furthermore, we show that the triangular matrix representation of strongly r-clean need not be strongly r-clean. Moreover, we prove that if R is abelian then strongly r-clean ring is equivalent to the well known ring theoretic properties such as: strongly clean rings, clean rings and r-clean rings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The aim of this study was to purify and characterize bacteriocin from the soil isolate Bacillus subtilis GAS101, and to determine its antimicrobial as well as antibiofilm potential. The purified bacteriocin was further analyzed and evaluated for mammalian cell cytotoxicity and the possible mode of action.Material and Methods: Bacteriocin from B. subtilis GAS101 (an animal husbandry soil isolate) was partially purified and checked for antimicrobial and antibiofilm activity against gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria. The molecular weight of bacteriocin was determined using tricine SDS-PAGE gel. The stability of bacteriocin was investigated at various temperatures and pH levels, and its sensitivity towards 8 enzymes and 6 chemicals was determined. Cytotoxicity analysis was performed on a Vero cell line by a tetrazolium dye-based assay. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) of bacteriocin-treated bacteria was carried out to determine the possible mode of action.Results: Bacteriocin from B. subtilis GAS101 was a potential inhibitor of both the indicator organisms (Staphylococcus epidermidis and Escherichia coli), and had a molecular weight of approximately 6.5 kDa. An in situ gel assay showed a zone of inhibition corresponding to the estimated protein band size. Bacteriocin was stable and showed antibacterial activity in broad ranges of temperature (30-121°C) and pH (2-12). It was sensitive to 4 proteolytic enzymes, which indicated its proteinaceous nature. Bacteriocin showed > 70% cell viability on the mammalian Vero cell line. SEM depicted that the bacteriocin was able to disrupt the bacterial cell membrane as its probable mode of action.Conclusion: Thermostable and pH-tolerant bacteriocin from B. subtilis GAS101, of about 6.5 kDa, showed broad-spectrum antimicrobial and antibiofilm activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chromatin composition differs across the genome, with distinct compositions characterizing regions associated with different properties and functions. Whereas many histone modifications show local enrichment over genes or regulatory elements, marking can also span large genomic intervals defining broad chromatin domains. Here we highlight structural and functional features of chromatin domains marked by histone modifications, with a particular emphasis on the potential roles of H3K27 methylation domains in the organization and regulation of genome activity in metazoans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context:The tuber ofAmorphophallus paeoniifolius(Dennst.) Nicolson (Araceae), commonly called Suran or Jimmikand, has high medicinal value and is used ethnomedicinally for the treatment of different gastrointestinal and inflammatory disorders. Objective:The present study evaluated the effects of extracts ofAmorphophallus paeoniifoliustubers on acetic acid-induced ulcerative colitis (UC) in rats. Materials and methods:Wistar rats were orally administered methanol extract (APME) or aqueous extract (APAE) (250 and 500 mg/kg) or standard drug, prednisolone (PRDS) (4 mg/kg) for 7 days. On 6th day of treatment, UC was induced by transrectal instillation of 4% acetic acid (AA) and after 48 h colitis was assessed by measuring colitis parameters, biochemical estimations and histology of colon. Results:APME or APAE pretreatment significantly (p < .05–.001) prevented AA-induced reduction in body weight and increase in colitis parameters viz. stool consistency, colon weight/length ratio and ulcer score, area and index. Extracts treatment attenuated (p < .001) increase in alkaline phosphatase and lactate dehydrogenase in serum and myeloperoxidase activity and cytokines in colon tissue due to AA administration. Extracts treatment prevented AA-induced elevation in lipid peroxidation and decline in activities of superoxide dismutase and catalase and reduced-glutathione content (p < .05–.001) along with histopathological alterations. PRDS also showed similar ameliorative effect on colitis. Discussion and conclusion:APME and APAE showed a preventive effect on UC, and ameliorated inflammation and oxidative damage in colon. The effects may be attributed to presence of phytochemicals, betulinic acid, β-sitosterol, and glucomannan. In conclusion, the tuber ofAmorphophallus paeoniifoliusexhibited an anticolitic effect through anti-inflammatory and antioxidant action. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The rhizosphere-plant-microbial association is a complex and intricate system susceptible to various organic pollutants, including polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH). Since the soil acts as a sink of PAH, their accumulation shifts the delicate rhizosphere-plant-microbe equilibrium and enters the food chain through plants. How the presence of PAH in the rhizosphere affects the rhizosphere-plant-microbial system is still unclear. This study aims to understand the effects of PAH on rhizosphere-plant-microbial interactions. It also explores the potential use of microbes to alleviate PAH-induced stress in the soil for effective and sustainable management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mechanical properties of nanocrystalline (nc) Nickel (Ni) and Ni-Teflon (Ni-Tf) nanocomposite has been studied in detail using nanoindentation and conventional tensile tests. Nanoindentation tests carried out at room temperature over a range of loading rate exhibited higher hardness for the nanocomposite as compared to the nc-Ni due to Tf dispersion. An increase in strain rate sensitivity (SRS) and decrease in activation volume of the nanocomposite as compared to nc-Ni was also observed. Tensile tests were carried out over a temperature regime of room temperature (RT) to 500 °C. Tensile data also showed enhancement of yield stress and ultimate tensile strength up to 150 °C. But from 200 °C and above, Tf dispersion is unable to provide superior strength over nc-Ni as both the materials show almost similar strength. However, the ductility of the Ni-Tf nanocomposite was observed to be higher at all temperature compared to the pure nc-Ni. SRS was found to increase with temperature while SRS in nanocomposite had higher value below 200 °C. The present study reveals that Ni-Tf nanocomposite possess better strength and ductility compared to nc-Ni up to 200 °C. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Staphylococcus epidermidis has emerged as the main causative agent for graft-related and nosocomial infections. Rampant use of antibiotics and biofilm formed by the organism results in poor penetration of the drug and further aggravates the antibiotic resistance, emphasizing an urgent need to explore alternative treatment modalities. Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs), produced as effector molecules of the innate immunity of living organisms, have therapeutic potential that can be used to inhibit the growth of microbes. In addition, the susceptibility of a microbe to become resistant to an AMP is relatively low. The AMPs are amphipathic peptides of 12-100 residues, which have broad-spectrum activity against microbes. There are scattered reports of AMPs listed against S. epidermidis and there is an urgent need to systematically study the AMPs. Various natural AMPs as well as synthetic peptides have been investigated against S. epidermidis. These peptides have been shown to inhibit both planktonic culture and S. epidermidis biofilm effectively. The multiple modes of action in killing the organism minimize the chances for the development of resistance. This review focused on various natural and synthetic peptides that demonstrate activity against S. epidermidis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Diabetic cases have increased rapidly in recent years throughout the world. Currently, for type-1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM), multiple daily insulin (MDI) injections is the most popular treatment throughout the world. At this juncture, researchers are trying to develop different insulin delivery systems, especially through oral and pulmonary route using nanocarrier based delivery system. This next generation efficient therapy for T1DM may help to improve the quality of life of diabetic patients who routinely employ insulin by the subcutaneous route. In this paper, we have depicted various next generation nanocarrier based insulin delivery systems such as chitosan-insulin nanoparticles, PLGA-insulin nanoparticles, dextran-insulin nanoparticles, polyalkylcyanoacrylated-insulin nanoparticles and solid lipid-insulin nanoparticles. Modulation of these insulin nanocarriers may lead to successful oral or pulmonary insulin nanoformulations in future clinical settings. Therefore, applications and limitations of these nanoparticles in delivering insulin to the targeted site have been thoroughly discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present article reports the synthesis of three Eu(III) complexes [Eu(BA) 3 (2-ap)] ( 1 ), [Eu(HBA) 3 (2-ap)] ( 2 ) and [Eu(ABA) 3 (2-ap)] ( 3 ) (BA = benzoic acid, HBA = 2-hydroxy benzoic acid, ABA = 2-amino benzoic acid and 2-ap = 2-aminopyridine) carried out in ethanol solution. The complexes were further doped with CaF 2 nanoparticles and a change in the photoluminescence properties was observed. The compositions and structural investigation of the complexes were determined by elemental analysis and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) which suggest the coordination of ligands with the central Eu(III) ion. The optical properties of the complexes were studied by Ultraviolet Visible absorption spectroscopy (UV–Vis) and photoluminescence studies (PL). The relative PL intensity was enhanced in the Eu(III) complexes doped with CaF 2 nanoparticles as compared to the pure Eu(III) complexes, however the increase in intensity varied in the order of ligands ABA > HBA > BA. The photoluminescence lifetime decay curves also revealed the longer lifetime ( τ ) and higher quantum efficiency ( η ) for europium complexes with ABA ligands suggesting the efficient energy transfer and better sensitizing ability of the ligand to europium ion. The morphology of the synthesized compounds were studied by Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) revealing spherical morphology with agglomeration of the nanoparticles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Three europium complexes [Eu(2-ap) 3 (phen)]Cl 3 (1), [Eu(2-ap) 2 (phen) 2 ]Cl 3 (2) and [Eu(2-ap)(phen) 3 ]Cl 3 (3) have been synthesized with different molar ratios of ligands 2-ap and phen (where 2-ap is 2-aminopyridine, phen is 1,10-phenanthroline). The structures of the ligands and complexes were well characterized by elemental analysis, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) and powder X-ray diffraction studies (XRD). The optical properties of the complexes were investigated by ultraviolet visible absorption spectroscopy (UV-vis) and photoluminescence emission spectroscopy (PL) and photoluminescence lifetime decay measurements. The complexes exhibited intense red emission at 615 nm due to 5 D 0 → 7 F 2 transitions of the central Eu(III) ion. It was also observed that with increase in the molar ratio of ligand phen, the relative emission intensity of 5 D 0 → 7 F 2 transition at 615 nm was enhanced in complex (3) than in the complex (1) and complex (2), indicating that the complex (3) exhibited good luminescent properties. Furthermore, the complex (3) shows good quantum yield and long luminescence lifetime, hence it can be used as an efficient fluoroprobe. The thermal properties of the obtained complexes were studied by thermogravimetry analysis (TG-DTA) demonstrating the corresponding mass losses due to the ligands 2-ap and phen and the formation of stable oxide Eu 2 O 3 as the final product after decomposition. The morphologies as studied by Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) depicted different microstructures for all the three complexes revealing that the change in concentration of ligands leads to the change in morphologies of the complexes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Wnt signaling pathway is mediated by a family of secreted glycoproteins through canonical and noncanonical mechanism. The signaling pathways are regulated by various modulators, which are classified into two classes on the basis of their interaction with either Wnt or its receptors. Secreted frizzled-related proteins (sFRPs) are the member of class that binds to Wnt protein and antagonizes Wnt signaling pathway. The other class consists of Dickkopf (DKK) proteins family that binds to Wnt receptor complex. The present review discusses the disease related association of various polymorphisms in Wnt signaling modulators. Furthermore, this review also highlights that some of the sFRPs and DKKs are unable to act as an antagonist for Wnt signaling pathway and thus their function needs to be explored more extensively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cu–chitosan nanoparticles were synthesized and evaluated for their growth promotory and antifungal efficacy in tomato ( Solanum lycopersicum Mill). Physico-chemical characterization of the developed Cu–chitosan nanoparticles was carried out by DLS, FTIR, TEM, SEM-EDS and AAS. The study highlighted the stability and porous nature of Cu–chitosan nanoparticles. Laboratory synthesized nanoparticles showed substantial growth promotory effect on tomato seed germination, seedling length, fresh and dry weight at 0.08, 0.10 and 0.12% level. At 0.12% concentration these nanoparticles caused 70.5 and 73.5% inhibition of mycelia growth and 61.5 and 83.0% inhibition of spore germination in Alternaria solani and Fusarium oxysporum , respectively, in an in vitro model. In pot experiments, 0.12% concentration of Cu–chitosan nanoparticles was found most effective in percentage efficacy of disease control (PEDC) in tomato plants with the values of 87.7% in early blight and 61.1% in Fusarium wilt. The overall results confirm the significant growth promotory as well as antifungal capabilities of Cu–chitosan nanoparticles. Our model demonstrated the synthesis of Cu–chitosan nanoparticles and open up the possibility to use against fungal disease at field level. Further, developed porous nanomaterials could be exploited for delivery of agrochemicals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper reports the synthesis of mononuclear Eu, Yb and binuclear Eu-Yb complexes by solution technique, maintaining the stoichiometric ratios of salicylic acid (sal) and 1,10-phenanthroline (phen) as ligands and their structural, optical and morphological properties were demonstrated. The FTIR absorption spectra indicates that sal and phen are coordinated to the rare earth ion through the chemical bonds formed between oxygen and nitrogen atoms of the ligands and rare earth ion. The UV-vis absorption spectra of the complexes reflect the absorption spectra of the ligands and there is no significant change in the wavelength and band profiles between the spectra of the ligands and that of complexes except a slight red shift. The photoluminescent emission spectra of the complexes in visible and near-infrared (NIR) region was recorded and indicated the emission quenching in complex (2) due to the energy transfer from Eu ion to Yb ion. The morphological properties of the complexes as characterized by SEM revealed different morphologies of mononuclear and binuclear complexes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To overcome the therapeutic restrictions offered by hydrophobic quercetin (Qu), this study aims to synthesize MPEG-PLA encapsulated Qu nanoparticle and to evaluate their anticancer efficacy. Materials and Methods: In vitro anticancer potential and apoptotic studies were done by cell cytotoxicity assay and flow cytometry, respectively . MPEG-PLA-Qu nanoparticles were evaluated for anticancer efficacy in vivo using xenograft mice model. TUNEL assay was performed to observe the frequency of apoptotic cells in vivo. Results: The hydrodynamic particle size, polydispersity index, zeta potential and drug loading % of MPEG-PLA-Qu nanoparticle was 155.3 ± 3.2 nm, 0.2 ± 0.05, −3.14 mV and 5.3 ± 1.1%, respectively. Also, MPEG-PLA-Qu showed sustained drug release for 10 days. In vitro results showed that MPEG-PLA-Qu could efficiently induce apoptosis in triple negative breast cancer cell line (MDA-MB-231) with higher amount of quercetin in cell lysate treated with MPEG-PLA-Qu in comparison to free quercetin. In xenograft model for breast cancer, peritumorally injected MPEG-PLA-Qu significantly inhibited the tumor growth. Moreover, TUNEL assay showed more occurrence of apoptotic cells in MPEG-PLA-Qu treated tumors compared to free quercetin at similar dose. Conclusion: Our data suggest that MPEG-PLA-Qu nanoparticle can have a promising clinical potential for the treatment of breast cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Staphylococcus epidermidisis reported to be the main causative agent of nosocomial infections. It has become increasingly difficult to treat this micro-organism because of the emergence of new antibiotic-resistant strains and its ability to form biofilm on medical associated devices. Phytochemicals acting in synergy are effective in killing the micro-organisms by lowering the doses, and synergistic compounds evade the development of resistance due to different mechanism of action. This study aims to determine the synergistic antimicrobial potential of curcumin with cinnamaldehyde, eugenol, and ellagic acid againstS. epidermidis.Curcumin with ellagic acid as well as eugenol were found to have additive antimicrobial effect, whereas, in combination, curcumin and cinnamaldehyde were found to have synergistic effect againstS. epidermidis(fractional inhibitory concentration index (FICI) = 0.5). Synergy between curcumin and cinnamaldehyde was established by time–kill kinetics and was further evaluated for antibiofilm activity. The dose required to inhibit biofilm formation was reduced to half than that needed to inhibit its planktonic culture (minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) of curcumin = 3.12 μg/ml; MIC of cinnamaldehyde = 15.62 μg/ml; FICI = 0.248). Both curcumin and cinnamaldehyde disrupted the bacterial membrane for killing the bacteria as determined by permeability studies onEscherichia coliML-35p. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

For the development of potent novel antileishmanial agents, 3,3′-(arylmethylene)bis(2-hydroxynaphthalene-1,4 dione) derivatives were synthesized from lawsone and evaluated for cytotoxicity on Leishmania donovani promastigotes as well as on leishmanial DNA topoisomerase-I. Enzyme inhibition studies were conducted with simultaneous and preincubation conditions. Total inhibition is compared to camptothecin (CPT), which was taken as positive control on both the systems of enzyme inhibition. The range of activity varied from 37.5 to 70 µM in simultaneous assay and 13-16 µM in preincubation assay. Furthermore, when evaluated against L. donovani promastigotes, the synthesized compounds exhibited the activity ranging from 2 to 14 µM. The results revealed that all the compounds exhibit promising antileishmanial activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biomolecule-mediated nanoparticle synthesis has recently gained the attention of researchers due to its ecofriendly and non-toxic nature. Metabolites from plant extracts represent a better alternative to chemical methods to fulfill the growing demand for non-hazardous nanoparticle synthesis routes. Selenium and its nanoparticles have an extensive range of applications. Thus, biofabrication of selenium nanoparticles can be potentially useful in various fields. This study reports a green approach to biosynthesize selenium nanoparticles (Se-np) using dried Vitis vinifera (raisin) extracts. The biosynthesized selenium nanoparticles were characterized using transmission electron microscope (TEM), dynamic light scattering (DLS), X-ray diffraction (XRD), energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) spectroscopy and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). Transmission electron microscopic images revealed the spherical shape of biosynthesized selenium nanoparticles and a size range of 3-18 nm. Dynamic light scattering also confirmed the average particle size of 8.12 ± 2.5 nm with 0.212 PDI. The crystalline nature of selenium nanoparticles was confirmed by the X-ray diffraction study. Moreover, as inferred from the FTIR spectrum, the presence of highly stable lignin biopolymer on the surface of selenium nanoballs suggests a possible role as capping agent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a gram-negative pathogen that has become an important cause of infection, especially in patients with compromised host defense mechanisms. It is frequently related to nosocomial infections such as pneumonia, urinary tract infections (UTIs) and bacteremia. The biofilm formed by the bacteria allows it to adhere to any surface, living or non-living and thus Pseudomonal infections can involve any part of the body. Further, the adaptive and genetic changes of the micro-organisms within the biofilm make them resistant to all known antimicrobial agents making the Pseudomonal infections complicated and life threatening. Pel, Psl and Alg operons present in P. aeruginosa are responsible for the biosynthesis of extracellular polysaccharide which plays an important role in cell–cell and cell–surface interactions during biofilm formation. Understanding the bacterial virulence which depends on a large number of cell-associated and extracellular factors is essential to know the potential drug targets for future studies. Current novel methods like small molecule based inhibitors, phytochemicals, bacteriophage therapy, photodynamic therapy, antimicrobial peptides, monoclonal antibodies and nanoparticles to curtail the biofilm formed by P. aeruginosa are being discussed in this review. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The high temperature deformation behavior was studied in nanocrystalline (nc)-Ni with an initial grain size of ~60nm. Conventional tensile stress–strain behavior of nc-Ni was studied as a function of temperature and strain rate. The strength of nc-Ni was found to decrease and ductility was found to increase with increasing temperature. The YS was found to reduce from ~703MPa at RT to 184MPa at 300°C. The effect of temperature and strain rate on the work-hardening capacity of nc-Ni was found to be pronounced. The strain range during which work hardening take place was found to be higher for low strain rates and work hardening rate was found to decrease above 200°C due to substantial grain growth. Detailed experimental studies were also performed to delineate the influence of thermally activated process and dynamic grain growth on strain rate sensitivity (m) in nc-Ni. The m was found to be strongly dependent on grain growth during high temperature deformation of nc-Ni. Fracture morphology of the nc-Ni showed dimple fracture with dimple diameter and depth were significantly larger than the average grain size (~60nm) in nc-Ni. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Introduction: Cronobacter sakazakii is an emerging and opportunistic pathogen, related with outbreaks of necrotizing enterocolitis, bacteremia, and infant meningitis. Powdered infant formula (PIF)-products contaminated by C. sakazakii cause severe infections in infants. Materials and Methods: In the present study, C. sakazakii isolates were tested for their susceptibility to various antibiotics using the Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion method. Alternatively, C. sakazakii infections can be controlled by various plant products and probiotics. Aqueous and alcoholic extracts of Citrus sinensis, Cinnamomum zeylanicum, Piper chaba, Terminalia chebula, Terminalia arjuna, Mangifera indica, Zingiber officinale, Allium sativum, Azadirachta indica, Ocimum sanctum, Syzygium aromaticum, Terminalia bellirica and Emblica officinalis were prepared and their antimicrobial activities were checked against C. sakazakii by the Muller--Hinton Agar well diffusion method. For probiotic control, an in vitro study was conducted to determine the antibacterial activity of lactic acid bacteria against C. sakazakii. Results: Results showed the antimicrobial activity of plant products and lactic acid bacteria against C. sakazakii. It is recommended that these plant products and lactic acid bacteria could be utilized as natural antimicrobials in baby food-formulations to inhibit C. sakazakii infections in neonates. Conclusion: Emergence of multi-drug resistance and side-effects of antibiotics, plant products can serve as effective antimicrobial agents against C. sakazakii. Lactic acid bacteria can also serve in the control of infections caused by C. sakazakii. Specific probiotics may be useful for healthy intestinal colonization and barrier function to fight pathogen adhesion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of irradiation damage on the microstructure evolution and mechanical properties in nanocrystalline (nc) Ni with an average grain size of ∼60nm was studied. Samples were irradiated at doses of 1.6×1015, 2.3×1015, 5×1015 and 2.3×1016 He2+ cm−2 by 12MeV He ions at room temperature. Microstructural parameters like domain size and microstrain were studied in detail using the X-ray diffraction (XRD) technique with the simplified breadth method and Williamson–Hall analysis. The average domain size was found to decrease systematically with the increase in irradiation dose. Microscopic observations made with transmission electron microscopy showed dislocation loops and dislocation networks within the grain interior of the irradiated sample. In addition, irradiation at a higher dose showed small amounts of the sand-like black dots inside some grains, which could be due to the accumulation of point defects. Tensile tests performed on the irradiated sample were compared with unirradiated samples. The irradiated sample showed higher ultimate tensile strength and average work-hardening rate as compared to the unirradiated sample. Nanoindentation studies were performed to study the effect of irradiation on deformation parameters like strain rate sensitivity (m) and activation volume (V *). The value of m was found to increase whereas V * was found to decrease with increase in irradiation dose. Fracture surfaces of the tensile sample were investigated by SEM. The fracture morphology of the unirradiated sample showed dimpled rupture with much large dimple diameter and depth. The irradiated sample also showed dimple rupture but with much finer dimple diameter with wide size distribution and shallow depths. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Thermal ink-jet spray freeze-drying (TIJ-SFD) was used to produce inhalable particles of terbutaline sulphate, the aerosolisation properties of which were compared to the commercial Bricanyl® formulation. Scanning electron micrograph images showed the particles to be spherical, highly porous and suitable for aerosolisation from a simple, capsule-based dry-powder device (Cyclohaler®) without the need for additional excipients. Particle size was dependent upon the concentration of solution jetted, as well as the distance between the print head and the surface of the liquid nitrogen. Starting with a 5% (w/v) solution and maintaining this distance at 3cm produced spherical, porous particles of volume median diameter (VMD) 14.1±0.8μm and mass median aerodynamic diameter (MMAD) 4.0±0.6μm. The fine particle fraction (proportion of aerosol with MMAD≤4.46μm) was 22.9±3.3%, which compared favourably with that of the marketed dry powder inhaler formulation of terbutaline (Bricanyl® Turbohaler®; 25.7±3.8%), tested under the same conditions. These findings show that TIJ-SFD is a useful tool to predict the viability of a DPI formulation during preformulation physicochemical characterisation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Arsenic has a suppressive influence on spermatogenesis and induces impairment in male reproductive system due to oxidative stress. The present study was aimed to test the arsenic induced toxicity and protection by Chlorophytum borivilianum. The effect of sodium arsenite (4 mg/(kg body weight (bw)∙day)) via double distilled water without or with C. borivilianum (800 mg/(kg bw∙day)) was evaluated in Swiss albino mice for 30 days. The radical scavenging activity of the aqueous C. borivilianum root extract was measured using DPPH (l,1-diphenyl-2-picryl hydrayzyl) radical. Qualitative assessment of various cell types in the testis, sperm count and motility, testicular activity of lipid peroxidation (LPO), reduced glutathione (GSH), acid and alkaline phosphatase, cholesterol and serum testosterone were monitored. Arsenic treatment showed a significant increase in LPO, acid and alkaline phosphatase, cholesterol and decrease in sperm count, sperm motility, GSH and serum testosterone. Combined treatment showed significant decrease in LPO, acid and alkaline phosphatase, cholesterol and elevation in sperm count, sperm motility, GSH and serum testosterone. Testicular histopathology showed that C. borivilianum had reduced degeneration of germ cell in the seminiferous tubules and loss of sperms induced by arsenic intoxication. The results thus led us to conclude that administration of C. borivilianum root extract is found to be protective against arsenic induced toxicity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Equal channel angular pressing (ECAP) is an established technique to refine the grain size of various metals and alloys with improved mechanical properties. Annealed billets of Al–Mg were pressed at room and cryogenic temperature using Bc route in an equal channel angular die of 10mm channel diameter. The billets were pressed up to a maximum of 14 passes. The microstructure evolution after different passes was studied by TEM. The effect of pressing temperature (room and cryogenic temperature) employed during pressing on the mechanical properties was studied by nanoindentation technique. The deformation parameters such as strain rate sensitivity (m) and activation volume (V⁎) of the alloy pressed at different temperature were also evaluated. In addition, plastic deformation behavior was also studied by cyclic nanoindentation on the samples. The present analysis showed that the hardness of Al–Mg alloy pressed in cryogenic condition was lower than that at room temperature. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The grain growth characteristics and its effect on deformation behavior of nanocrystalline(nc)-Ni having a grain size of 60nm have been studied. The kinetics of thermal grain growth was studied by DSC and resistivity experiments. Thermal instability leading to grain growth in nc-Ni was assessed by determining the activation energy required for grain growth in the temperature range of 100–400°C. The activation energy was found to be ∼100kJ/mol below Curie temperature and ∼298kJ/mol above Curie temperature. The effect of grain size on nano-hardness and loading rate was investigated using nanoindentation technique. The deformation parameters like strain rate sensitivity (m) and activation volume () for different grain sizes in nc-Ni were also evaluated. The interaction of dislocations-grain boundaries mediated mechanism was appeared to be the rate controlling plastic deformation mechanism. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The effect of 4.0MeV proton irradiation on the microstructure and mechanical properties of nanocrystalline (nc) nickel was investigated. The irradiation damage induced in the sample was of the order of 0.004dpa. Transmission electron microscopy of irradiated samples indicated the presence of dislocation loops within the grains. An increase in hardness and strain-rate sensitivity (m) of nc-Ni with irradiation was noted. The rate-controlling deformation mechanism in irradiated nc-Ni was identified to be interaction of dislocations with irradiation-induced defects. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The study gives an insight into the effect of low frequency ultrasonic enhancement of solvent extraction on the quality of non-edible oils (Jatropha and Pongamia as model seed varieties) in comparison to conventional methods of extraction i.e. direct reflux or soxhlet extraction using hexane. A series of experiments have been carried out to study the effect of variables; solute to solvent ratio (1:2.5–1:10) and reaction time (30s–60min) on the yield of oil. The quality of oil extracted by different methods have been assessed by determining the acid value of oil by ASTM D-974/04 method, a measurement of triglyceride and fatty acid degradation, by the presence of phorbol esters in Jatropha curcas and phenolic compounds in Pongamia oil analyzed using HPLC. Under optimized conditions solute to solvent ratio of 1:10 (w/v), 3min extraction time yields >95% pure oil having <1% FFA in Jatropha curcas and 30s extraction time in Pongamia seed yields oil with less than 2% FFA in comparison to conventional method of extraction in 16h. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Nanocrystalline FeAl2O4 has been synthesized from furnace heating of corresponding iron and aluminium acetylacetonate complexes. The nanoparticles obtained were characterized using powder X-ray diffraction (XRD), EDX and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The particles were faceted with a diameter in the range of 10–20nm. The magnetic property of the FeAl2O4 nanoparticles was studied for the first time by plotting M vs H hysteresis curves, at different temperature and also by recording the temperature dependence of zero-field-cooled M ZFC and field-cooled M FC magnetization curves. On decreasing the temperature to 4K, the magnetization shows deviation from linear behavior. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: This work studies the feasibility of obtaining iron aluminide coatings on pure iron substrate by means of laser surface alloying (LSA). Pure Al was plasma spray coated on pure Fe substrate and subsequently laser alloyed by using multi mode continuous wave Nd-YAG laser at different output power and scanning rates. The aluminum content of the alloyed layer shows gradual change from surface to the inside of substrate. Detailed optical, SEM–EDX and XRD investigations were performed to characterize the phases formed during laser alloying. At 300 W laser output power, Al rich intermetallic phases mainly FeAl3, Fe2Al5 had formed with scanning rate in the range of 100–400 mm/min. However, at high power outputs (500 W) Fe–Al intermetallic phase had formed, which was found to have sound and crack free interface with the substrate. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

In the 21st century's global economy, the new challenges are there and the engineering profession have to face it, confirming the need to restructure engineering curricula, teaching and learning practices, and processes, including assessment. Engineering graduates possessing merely technical knowledge, is no longer a guarantee for a successful career. As a professional, the aim of the student is to succeed in the career path they have chosen for themselves. They want to be the best at what they do and move forward. However, sometimes students might wonder why they are not getting the "breaks" they need. Basically they have the hard skills; the technical knowledge and skills that will ensure that they do their job to the highest level of quality. And while all countries are facing this dilemma, India is also struggling the most. It has been argued that most Indian engineering educational institutions are struggling with the systemic problem of centralization coupled with an archaic examination system that is detrimental to student learning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: In water cooled nuclear reactors, the sliding of fuel bundles in fuel channel handling system can lead to severe wear and it is an important topic to study. In the present study, sliding wear behaviour of zircaloy-4 was investigated in water (pH∼10.5) using ball-on-plate sliding wear tester. Sliding wear resistance zircaloy-4 against SS 316 was examined at room temperature. Sliding wear tests were carried out at different load and sliding frequencies. The coefficient of friction of zircaloy-4 was also measured during each tests and it was found to decrease slightly with the increase in applied load. The micro-mechanisms responsible for wear in zircaloy-4 were identified to be microcutting, micropitting and microcracking of deformed subsurface zones in water. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The effect of a physiological dose of vitamin C (100 μg/ml) on goat articular cartilage chondrocytes cultured in an alginate matrix and subjected to static pressurization of 2.4 MPa was investigated. Biochemical analyses of DNA, glycosaminoglycan (GAG), collagen and protease activity were carried out in various matrix fractions, i.e. cellular matrix (CM) and further removed matrix (FRM), and in culture medium. The treatment of chondrocytes with vitamin C after static pressure increased the GAG content in both CM and FRM ( P < 0.03) as compared with control or vitamin C/ static load alone. The collagen content of chondrocytes treated with vitamin C alone and vitamin C after static load also increased significantly in FRM ( P < 0.003) as compared with control and static load alone. The specific activity of protease in CM and FRM decreased after vitamin C supplementation both with and without static pressure relative to control ( P < 0.003). Transmission electron-microscopic images showed a mixed population of spherical and elliptical chondrocytes when vitamin C was added after static load as compared with static load alone where only elliptical cells were seen. Abundant pericellular and collagen fibrils were seen in this group of chondrocytes as compared with all other groups and the control. The results thus show that, in vitro, vitamin C supplementation of chondrocytes after static loading has the potential to reduce the morphological and biochemical degeneration of chondrocytes caused by static loading, thereby improving the cellular health and functioning of articular cartilage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Nanocrystalline cobalt monosulfide (Jaipurite) has been synthesized from corresponding cobalt xanthate complexes using solvothermal method. Thermolysis of cobalt tris ethylxanthate in ethylene glycol at 196 °C for 4 h yielded black particles of Jaipurite. The nanoparticles obtained were characterized using powder X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). EDX analysis showed 63.90 wt.% of Co and 36.10 wt.% of S, which is in good agreement with the calculated wt.% of 63.98 for Co and 36.02 for S. The nanoparticles were found to be spherical with a diameter in the range of 7–9 nm. The magnetic property of the nanoparticles was measured by plotting M vs H hysteresis curves, at different temperature. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Wear behaviour of iron aluminides (Fe–28Al–3Cr at.%) alloy has been investigated under wet conditions using ball on plate sliding wear tester. Wear resistance was examined against tungsten carbide (WC) ball sliding over the iron aluminide plate at room temperature. Wear tests were carried out at 3 N and 5 N load conditions at different sliding frequency of mating ball. The micromechanisms responsible for wear were identified to be microcutting, micropitting, and microcracking of deformed subsurface zones under wet conditions. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]