Antibacterial efficiency of apple vinegar marination on beef-borne Salmonella.

Background: Salmonella-related foodborne illnesses are a significant public health concern. Naturally, antibacterial food components have been shown to limit microbial growth proliferation with various degrees of efficacy. Aims: To examine the occurrence, microbial load, and effect of apple vinegar on Salmonella serovars in beef and beef products. Methods: 150 beef and beef products were collected between March and May 2022. Total viable count (TVC), Enterobacteriaceae count (ENT), isolation and identification of Salmonella, and their virulence factors detection by multiplex PCR were determined, and an experimental study of the effect of natural apple vinegar marination on Salmonella spp. Results: TVC was higher in meatballs (3.32 × 106 ± 1.07 × 106) while beef burgers (4.22 × 103 ± 0.71 × 103) had the highest ENT. Concerning the prevalence of Salmonella spp., meatball (46.7%) and beef burger (25.3%) samples were the highest contamination rate. The common serovars detected were Salmonella typhimurium (6%), Salmonella enteritidis (6%), and Salmonella infantis (4%). Based on the results of PCR, 12, 11, and 11 out of 18 samples of Salmonella isolates possess hila, stn, and invA genes. By immersing the inoculated steak meat in apple vinegar at different concentrations (50%, 70%, and 100%), the initial populations of the Salmonella strains after 12 hours were reduced to 0.38 × 102 ± 0.05 × 102 log CFU/ml; however, after 48 hours become the most reduction (0.31 × 102 ± 0.07 × 102 log CFU/ml) at a concentration of 100% apple vinegar. An enhancement in the sensory attributes was noted across all concentrations. Conclusion: The consumed beef and beef products are contaminated with pathogenic bacteria such as Salmonella spp. Marinades made using apple vinegar concentrations of 50%, 75%, and 100% effectively minimized the prevalence of artificially inoculated Salmonella and extended the shelf life of preserved refrigerated beef products to 48 hours.

Deciphering the role of wound healing genes in skin cutaneous melanoma: Insights into expression, methylation, mutations, and therapeutic implications.

Skin Cutaneous Melanoma (SKCM) is a form of cancer that originates in the pigment-producing cells, known as melanocytes, of the skin. Delay wound healing is often correlated with the occurrence of and progression of SKCM. In this comprehensive study, we investigated the intricate roles of two important wound healing genes in SKCM, including Matrix Metalloproteinase-2 (MMP2) and Matrix Metalloproteinase-9 (MMP9). Through a multi-faceted approach, we collected clinical samples, conducted molecular experiments, including RT-qPCR, bisulphite sequencing, cell culture, cell Counting Kit-8, colony formation, and wound healing assays. Beside this, we also used various other databases/tools/approaches for additional analysis including, UALCAN, GEPIA, HPA, MEXPRESS, cBioPortal, KM plotter, DrugBank, and molecular docking. Our results revealed a significant up-regulation of MMP2 and MMP9 in SKCM tissues compared to normal counterparts. Moreover, promoter methylation analysis suggested an epigenetic regulatory mechanism. Validations using TCGA datasets and immunohistochemistry emphasized the clinical relevance of MMP2 and MMP9 dysregulation. Functional assays demonstrated their synergistic impact on proliferation and migration in SKCM cells. Furthermore, we identified potential therapeutic candidates, Estradiol and Calcitriol, through drug prediction and molecular docking analyses. These compounds exhibited binding affinities, suggesting their potential as MMP2/MMP9 inhibitors. Overall, our study elucidates the diagnostic, prognostic, and therapeutic implications of MMP2 and MMP9 in SKCM, shedding light on their complex interplay in SKCM occurrence and progression.

Preparation, In Vitro Characterization, and Evaluation of Polymeric pH-Responsive Hydrogels for Controlled Drug Release.

The purpose of the current research is to formulate a smart drug delivery system for solubility enhancement and sustained release of hydrophobic drugs. Drug solubility-related challenges constitute a significant concern for formulation scientists. To address this issue, a recent study focused on developing PEG-g-poly(MAA) copolymeric nanogels to enhance the solubility of olmesartan, a poorly soluble drug. The researchers employed a free radical polymerization technique to formulate these nanogels. Nine formulations were formulated. The newly formulated nanogels underwent comprehensive tests, including physicochemical assessments, dissolution studies, solubility evaluations, toxicity investigations, and stability examinations. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) investigations confirmed the successful encapsulation of olmesartan within the nanogels, while thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) studies verified their thermal stability. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images revealed the presence of pores on the surface of the nanogels, facilitating water penetration and promoting rapid drug release. Moreover, powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD) studies indicated that the prepared nanogels exhibited an amorphous structure. The nanogel carrier system led to a significant enhancement in olmesartan's solubility, achieving a remarkable 12.3-fold increase at pH 1.2 and 13.29-fold rise in phosphate buffer of pH 6.8 (NGP3). Significant swelling was observed at pH 6.8 compared to pH 1.2. Moreover, the formulated nexus is nontoxic and biocompatible and depicts considerable potential for delivery of drugs and protein as well as heat-sensitive active moieties.

Characterizing EBV-associated Gastric Carcinoma (EBVaGC): A deep dive into LMP1 expression patterns.

Gastric cancer (GC) is a serious public health issue due to its frequency and severity. It is, for both sexes, one of the most common causes of cancer-related death and is a major contributor to the global burden of disease. Recent data show that Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) has been detected in different histopathological subtypes of gastric carcinoma and that EBV-associated gastric carcinoma (EBVaGC) represents about 10% of all cases. Moreover, the LMP1 protein characterizing the malignant transformation of cells in several cancer models seems to be very rarely expressed in this type of cancer. This study aimed to characterize EBVaGC in our population by detecting LMP1 in gastric carcinomas in about 30 selected patients. The results showed that in our population, nuclear staining predominates, showing that the antrum remains the most sampled site both for these pathologies and for LMP1 positivity (nuclear staining). In general, the LMP1 marking was negative for 22.58%, positive with a nuclear predominance at 64.52%, nuclear and cytoplasmic at 12.90%, and no positive marking for the cytoplasm. Results were not like the different studies on the expression of this oncogenic protein without EBVsCG, probably finding an explanation in the fact that our country is among the endemic regions for this herpes virus. In conclusion, the rate of LMP1 expression among gastric carcinomas does not seem similar to that observed in other countries. This study characterizing EBVaGC in Tizi-Ouzou, Algeria, reinforces the need for further studies to clarify the role of EBV (LMP1) and to explore its potential value as a predictive biomarker for the development of this type of cancer pathology.

The potential role of Epstein-Barr Virus in breast cancer development.

We are looking into viral components that may contribute to breast cancer in order to find possible therapeutic targets. The Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), which has been found to cause nasopharyngeal carcinoma and Burkitt lymphoma, is thought to play a role in breast cancer. Our series' patients had a median age of 49, with nearly half being under the age of 49. T2 tumors (two to five centimeters in size) make up the vast majority of our collection (60%). Six percent of our patients showed lymph node involvement, with roughly the same number in the N1 and N2 stages (41.17% each). Only 17.64% of people are at the N3 stage. SBR II tumors were the most common (90%). Only 20% of patients have HER2 overexpression, whereas 73.33% have ER expression. EBV was found in 23.33% of breast carcinomas (7 cases/30) after oncoprotein LMP1 expression, but normal surrounding tissues tested negative. We discovered that overexpression of the HER2 protein is inversely related to the two HRs' expression. They have no relationship with EBV infection and, consequently, LMP1 expression. LMP1 expression was not shown to be linked with patient age, tumor grade, tumor size, or lymph node invasion.

Influence of environmental risk factors on the development of wounds associated with squamous cell carcinoma.

The incidence of squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is on the rise, making it a significant global health concern. Environmental risk factors are crucial to the development of SCC. This study sought to examine comprehensively the impact of these factors on the onset of SCC. We conducted a cross-sectional study involving 480 participants at Beijing tertiary care hospital. Utilizing structured questionnaires, data on demographics, environmental exposures, medical history and clinical characteristics were collected. The cohort was composed of 272 men (56.67%) and 208 women (43.33%). The majority (44.38%) were between ages of 41 and 60, and Type III skin predominated (34.79%). Most of the participants belonged to the middle socioeconomic class (60.83%). 'Vegetarian' dietary habits (46.67%) were prevalent, as was the 'Sedentary' lifestyle (49.79%). Regarding environmental exposures, moderate sun exposure of 3 to 5 h per day (54.58%) and UV protective eyewear (30.83%) were prevalent. The majority (69.58%) of respondents indicated 'Never' exposure to carcinogens. A variety of wound characteristics were observed, with 'non-smokers' (64.17%) dominating. Most SCC lesions were located on the extremities (40.21%), lasted less than 6 months (44.38%) and measured 1-3 cm (39.79%). The majority (54.58%) did not have a history of cutaneous injuries. Our research uncovered substantial relationships between SCC and numerous environmental variables, gender, Fitzpatrick skin type, occupation, duration of sun exposure, exposure to carcinogens, dietary practices, history of skin wounds, wound location, duration, size and depth were significantly associated with the onset of SCC. These results highlighted the complexity of SCC aetiology and need for individualized prevention and treatment strategies.

In Vitro and In Silico Activities of E. radiata and E. cinerea as an Enhancer of Antibacterial, Antioxidant, and Anti-Inflammatory Agents.

Eucalyptus, a therapeutic plant mentioned in the ancient Algerian pharmacopeia, specifically two species belonging to the Myrtaceae family, E. radiata and E. cinerea, were investigated in this study for their antibacterial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties. The study used aqueous extracts (AE) obtained from these plants, and the extraction yields were found to be different. The in vitro antibacterial activity was evaluated using a disc diffusion assay against three typical bacterial strains. The results showed that the two extracts were effective against all three strains. Both extracts displayed significant antioxidant activity compared to BHT. The anti-inflammatory impact was evaluated using a protein (BSA) inhibition denaturation test. The E. radiata extract was found to inhibit inflammation by 85% at a concentration of 250 µg/mL, significantly higher than the Aspirin. All phytoconstituents present good pharmacokinetic characteristics without toxicity except very slight toxicity of terpineol and cineol and a maximum binding energy of -7.53 kcal/mol for its anti-TyrRS activity in silico. The study suggests that the extracts and their primary phytochemicals could enhance the efficacy of antibiotics, antioxidants, and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). As pharmaceutical engineering experts, we believe this research contributes to developing natural-based drugs with potential therapeutic benefits.

Characterization of Silver Carbonate Nanoparticles Biosynthesized Using Marine Actinobacteria and Exploring of Their Antimicrobial and Antibiofilm Activity.

Bacterial resistance to different antimicrobial agents is growing with alarming speed, especially when bacterial cells are living in biofilm. Hybrid nanoparticles, synthesized through the green method, hold promise as a potential solution to this challenge. In this study, 66 actinomycete strains were isolated from three distinct marine sources: marine sediment, the algae Codium bursa, and the marine sponge Chondrosia reniformis. From the entirety of the isolated strains, one strain, S26, identified as Saccharopolyspora erythrea, was selected based on its taxonomic position and significant antimicrobial activity. Using the biomass of the selected marine Actinobacteria, the green synthesis of eco-friendly silver carbonate nanoparticles (BioAg2CO3NPs) is reported for the first time in this pioneering study. The BioAg2CO3NPs were characterized using different spectroscopic and microscopic analyses; the synthesized BioAg2CO3NPs primarily exhibit a triangular shape, with an approximate size of 100 nm. Biological activity evaluation indicated that the BioAg2CO3NPs exhibited good antimicrobial activity against all tested microorganisms and were able to remove 58% of the biofilm formed by the Klebsiella pneumoniae kp6 strain.

Quince seed mucilage/ß-cyclodextrin/Mmt-Na+-co-poly (methacrylate) based pH-sensitive polymeric carriers for controlled delivery of Capecitabine.

In current work, quince seed mucilage and ß-Cyclodextrin based pH regulated hydrogels were developed using aqueous free radical polymerization to sustain Capecitabine release patterns and to overcome its drawbacks, such as high dose frequency, short half-life, and low bioavailability. Developed networks were subjected to thermal analysis, Fourier transforms infrared spectroscopy, powder x-ray diffraction, elemental analysis, scanning electron microscopy, equilibrium swelling, and in-vitro release investigations to assess the network system's stability, complexation, morphology, and pH responsiveness. Thermally stable pH-responsive cross-linked networks were formed. Nanocomposite hydrogels were prepared by incorporating Capecitabine-containing clay into the swollen hydrogels. All the formulations exhibited equilibrium swelling ranging from 67.98 % to 92.98 % at pH 7.4. Optimum Capecitabine loading (88.17 %) was noted in the case of hydrogels, while it was 74.27 % in nanocomposite hydrogels. Excellent gel content (65.88 %-93.56 %) was noticed among developed formulations. Elemental analysis ensured the successful incorporation of Capecitabine. Nanocomposite hydrogels released 80.02 % longer than hydrogels after 30 h. NC hydrogels had higher t1/2 (10.57 h), AUC (121.52 µg.h/ml), and MRT (18.95 h) than hydrogels in oral pharmacokinetics. These findings imply that the pH-responsive carrier system may improve Capecitabine efficacy and reduce dosing frequency in cancer therapy. Toxicity profiling proved the system's safety, non-toxicity, and biocompatibility.

Box-Behnken Design for Assessing the Efficiency of Aflatoxin M1 Detoxification in Milk Using Lactobacillus rhamnosus and Saccharomyces cerevisiae.

Milk contaminated with aflatoxin can lead to liver cancer. Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1), a serious animal feed contaminant, is transformed into Aflatoxin M1 (AFM1) and secreted in milk. In this study, a biological method using probiotic bacteria, Lactobacillus rhamnosus (L. rhamnosus) in combination with Saccharomyces cerevisiae (S. cerevisiae), was used to assess their antiaflatoxigenic effect in animal milk. A Box-Behnken design was used to establish the optimal ratio of L. rhamnosus and S. cerevisiae, incubation time, and temperature for efficient AFM1 detoxification from milk. To achieve this, the primary, interaction, and quadratic effects of the chosen factors were investigated. To investigate the quadratic response surfaces, a second-order polynomial model was built using a three-factor, three-level Box-Behnken design. The quantity of AFM1 was detected by the ELISA technique. The results of these experiments obtained an optimum condition in AFM1 detoxification of the three tested factors in order to maximize their effect on AFM1 detoxification in milk. The model was tested in three highly contaminated milk samples to assure the efficacy of the model. AFM1 detoxification was up to 98.4% in contaminated milk samples. These promising results provide a safe, low-cost, and low-time-consuming solution to get rid of the problem of milk contamination with AFM1.

Suppression of Nasopharyngeal and Gastric Tumor Growth in a Mouse Model by Antibodies to Epstein-Barr Virus LMP1 Protein.

The study aimed to investigate the antitumor efficacy of anti-LMP1 antibodies in EBV-positive nasopharyngeal and stomach cell lines and xenograft models. The study also examined the NF-κB expression and cell cycle activation of NPC-serum-exosome-associated LMP1. Anti-LMP1 antibody treatment before or during cell implantation prevented tumor growth in nude mice. A small dose of antibodies resulted in complete tumor regression for at least three months after the tumors had grown in size. The consumption of antigen-antibody complexes by tumor cells limited tumor growth. In vitro experiments showed that anti-LMP1 antibodies killed EBV-positive NPC- or GC-derived epithelial cell lines and EBV-positive human B-cell lines but not EBV-negative cell lines. Treatment with anti-LMP1 reduced NF-κB expression in cells. The animal model experiments showed that anti-LMP1 inhibited and prevented NPC- or GC-derived tumor growth. The results suggest that LMP1 antibody immunotherapy could cure nasopharyngeal cancer, EBV-positive gastric carcinoma, and EBV-associated lymphomas. However, further validation of these findings is required through human clinical trials.

Novel Natrosol/Pectin-co-poly (acrylate) based pH-responsive polymeric carrier system for controlled delivery of Tapentadol Hydrochloride.

Background & Objectives: This study aimed to create a controlled delivery system for Tapentadol Hydrochloride by developing interpenetrating networks (IPNs) of Natrosol-Pectin copolymerized with Acrylic Acid and Methylene bisacrylamide, and to analyze the effects of various ingredients on the physical and chemical characteristics of the IPNs. Methods: Novel Tapentadol Hydrochloride-loaded Natrosol-Pectin based IPNs were formulated by using the free radical polymerization technique. Co-polymerization of Acrylic Acid (AA) with Natrosol and Pectin was performed by using Methylene bisacrylamide (MBA). Ammonium persulfate (APS) was used as the initiator of crosslinking process. The impact of ingredients i.e. Natrosol, Pectin, MBA, and Acrylic Acid on the gel fraction, porosity, swelling (%), drug loading, and drug release was investigated. FTIR, DSC, TGA, SEM and EDX studies were conducted to confirm the grafting of polymers and to evaluate the thermal stability and surface morphology of the developed IPNs. Results: Swelling studies exhibited an increase in swelling percentage from 84.27 to 91.17% upon increasing polymer (Natrosol and Pectin) contents. An increase in MBA contents resulted in a decrease in swelling from 85 to 67.63%. Moreover, the swelling was also observed to increase with higher AA contents. Significant drug release was noted at higher pH instead of gastric pH value. Oral toxicological studies revealed the nontoxic and biocompatible nature of Natrosol-Pectin IPNs. Interpretation & Conclusion: The developed IPNs were found to be an excellent system for the controlled delivery of Tapentadol Hydrochloride.

Assessment of the Antioxidant and Anti-inflammatory Properties of Aqueous Extract of Rosa sempervirens Leaves.

The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of an aqueous natural extract obtained from Rosa sempervirens leaves were assessed. The ability of the extract to scavenge DPPH, •OH, and H2O2 radicals, chelate ferrous ions, reduce ferric ions, and protect ß-carotene-linoleic acid in emulsion from peroxidation was investigated in vitro. Furthermore, the anti-inflammatory activity of the extract was evaluated by measuring the stability of the membrane of human red blood cells against different hypotonic concentrations of NaCl and heat, as well as by inhibiting the denaturation of albumin. A high total phenolic content (278.38± 11.07 mg GAE/g) and flavonoid content (34.22± 0.12 mg QE /g) were found in the extract. The extract exhibited significant scavenging activity of DPPH (IC50 6.201 ± 0.126 µg/ ml), •OH (IC50 = 894.57 ± 21.18 µg/ml), and H2O2 (IC50= 107±09.58 µg/ml) radicals, and good antioxidant activity by chelating ferrous ions (IC50 = 2499.086 ± 28.267µg/ml), reducing ferric ions (IC50=141.33±2.34 µg/ml), exhibiting total antioxidant capacity (IC50 465.65 ± 9.71 µg/ml), and protecting ß-carotene-linoleic acid against peroxidation (I% = 90.05 ± 1.65% at 1000µg/ml). R. sempervirens displayed anti-inflammatory activity in aqueous extract by inhibiting heat-induced albumin denaturation and stabilizing the membrane of human red blood cells. It was suggested from the results that R. sempervirens aqueous extract could help prevent oxidative and inflammatory processes due to its good antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

Evaluating the Synergistic Potency of Essential Oils and Antibiotics Against Klebsiella pneumoniae BLSE Strains.

Klebsiella pneumoniae producing extended-spectrum ß-lactamases (ESBL) continues to pose huge therapeutic challenges in the treatment of infections, primarily urinary infections, due to its multidrug resistance to antibiotics. Therefore, there is a need for research on this topic to investigate ways to reduce the spread of antibiotic resistance, identify novel therapeutic approaches to treat these infections and gain a better understanding of the mechanisms of resistance. In this context, this study aimed to analyze the chemical composition of essential oils (EOs) of Thymus algeriensis, Syzygium aromaticum, and Eucalyptus globulus and assess their activity against K. pneumoniae ESBL strains, as well as the interaction type between these EOs and antibiotics used for the treatment of K. pneumoniae ESBL infections. The composition of the EOs was determined by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The activity of EOs was tested using the disc diffusion and liquid microdilution methods. The type of interaction between EOs and antibiotics was studied using the agar disk diffusion and chessboard methods. The analysis of the EO of T. algeriensis showed that the main compounds were thymol (23.14%), linalool (18.44%), and p-cymene (16.17%). The main constituents of EO of E. globulus were eucalyptol (54.29%), α-pinene (17.32%), aromadendrene (7.02%), and pinocarveol (6.32%). As for the EO of S. aromaticum, the major constituents were eugenol (80.46%) and eugenol acetate (16.23%). Results of the activity tests showed that all three EOs were active against the tested strains, with inhibition diameters ranging from 7.39±0.44mm to 32.4±1.05mm and minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) varying from 2 to 441.5±5.66 mg/ml. A synergistic interaction was obtained between amoxicillin-clavulanic acid and T. algeriensis EO against two strains of K. pneumoniae ESBL. These results demonstrate the potential of our EOs to inhibit multi-resistant pathogenic ESBL strains, as well as their synergistic interaction with antibiotics used in therapy, which could be an alternative to the use of antibiotics alone in treatment to fight against these multi-resistant pathogenic bacteria.

A multi-class deep learning model for early lung cancer and chronic kidney disease detection using computed tomography images.

Lung cancer is a fatal disease caused by an abnormal proliferation of cells in the lungs. Similarly, chronic kidney disorders affect people worldwide and can lead to renal failure and impaired kidney function. Cyst development, kidney stones, and tumors are frequent diseases impairing kidney function. Since these conditions are generally asymptomatic, early, and accurate identification of lung cancer and renal conditions is necessary to prevent serious complications. Artificial Intelligence plays a vital role in the early detection of lethal diseases. In this paper, we proposed a modified Xception deep neural network-based computer-aided diagnosis model, consisting of transfer learning based image net weights of Xception model and a fine-tuned network for automatic lung and kidney computed tomography multi-class image classification. The proposed model obtained 99.39% accuracy, 99.33% precision, 98% recall, and 98.67% F1-score for lung cancer multi-class classification. Whereas, it attained 100% accuracy, F1 score, recall and precision for kidney disease multi-class classification. Also, the proposed modified Xception model outperformed the original Xception model and the existing methods. Hence, it can serve as a support tool to the radiologists and nephrologists for early detection of lung cancer and chronic kidney disease, respectively.

Comparative Bioactivity Evaluation of Chemically Characterized Essential Oils Obtained from Different Aerial Parts of Eucalyptus gunnii Hook. f. (Myrtaceae).

Essential oils (EOs) obtained by hydro-distillation from different parts of twigs (EOT), leaves (EOL), and fruits (EOF) of Eucalyptus gunnii Hook. f. were screened for their chemical composition, insecticidal, repellence, and antibacterial properties. Based on GC and GC/MS analysis, 23 constituents were identified across the twigs, leaves, and fruits, with 23, 23, and 21 components, respectively. The primary significant class was oxygenated monoterpenes (82.2-95.5%). The main components were 1,8-cineole (65.6-86.1%), α-terpinyl acetate (2.5-7.6%), o-cymene (3.3-7.5%), and α-terpineol (3.3-3.5%). All three EOs exhibited moderate antibacterial activities. EOL was found to have higher antibacterial activity against all tested strains except Dickeya solani (CFBP 8199), for which EOT showed more potency. Globally, Dickeya solani (CFBP 8199) was the most sensitive (MIC ≤ 2 mg/mL), while the most resistant bacteria were Dickeya dadantii (CFBP 3855) and Pectobacterium carotovorum subsp. carotovorum (CFBP 5387). Fumigant, contact toxicity, and repellent bioassays showed different potential depending on plant extracts, particularly EOT and EOL as moderate repellents and EOT as a medium toxicant.

Development and Evaluation of Sodium Alginate/Carbopol 934P-Co-Poly (Methacrylate) Hydrogels for Localized Drug Delivery.

This research was carried out to create a pH-responsive polymeric system for the targeted drug delivery of Diloxanide furoate. It relied on sodium alginate (Na-Alg) and Carbopol 934P as building blocks. Using an aqueous free radical polymerization method, SCH1-SCH12 was created with varying polymer, MAA, and MBA input ratios. Positive outcomes were seen in the swelling and release profiles at higher pH levels. Hydrogel formation, as well as component compatibility, thermal stability, and Diloxanide furoate loading, were all validated by instrumental characterization. A drug loading percentage of 83.56% was determined, with the swelling reaching 743.19%. For the formulation with MBA, the gel fraction was 94.58%. The release of diloxanide furoate increased to 91.77% at neutral pH. The formulation containing Carbopol 934P provided the highest mucoadhesion force (3993.42 dynes/cm2). The created hydrogel has been shown to be biocompatible by toxicological testing of the network. Based on the findings, the created polymeric nexus proved promising for pH-dependent localized and regulated delivery of Diloxanide furoate.

Chemical constituents from Centaurothamnus maximus and their antimicrobial activity.

A new sesquiterpene lactone, 3ß,10α-dihydroxy-10ß-(hydroxymethyl)-8α-(4-hydroxymethacrylate)-1αH,5αH,6ßH,7αH-guai-4(15), 11(13)-dien-6,12-olide (1), along with twenty-one known compounds, were identified from the aerial parts of Centaurothamnus maximus. The structures of the isolated compounds were elucidated on the basis of spectroscopic evidences and correlated with known compounds. Compounds (2, 3, 5‒13 and 15‒22) were identified from C. maximus for the first time. Antibacterial and antifungal activities of the isolated compounds were tested using the agar disc diffusion method. Compounds that demonstrated promising antimicrobial activity were evaluated for their minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC). The results showed that compounds 3 and 7 were the most effective antibacterial compounds against B. subtilis ATCC 6633, S. aureus ATCC 25923 and S. pyogenes ATCC 27736, with MIC estimates between 8 and 32 mg/mL. In addition, compound 2 exhibited the strongest antifungal activity against C. albicans ATCC 14243 and C. krusei ATCC 14243 with MIC 8 mg/mL.

Twenty-two compounds were first isolated from Centaurothamnus maximusThe structure of the new sesquiterpene lactone, thamnolide (1), was established.Antibacterial and antifungal activities were tested for the isolated compounds.Compounds 3 and 7 were the strongest antibacterial compounds whilst 2 exhibited the strongest antifungal activity.

Bioinspired Synthesis of Zinc Molybdate Nanoparticles: An Efficient Material for Growth Inhibition of Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, and Dye Remediation.

Zinc molybdate nanoparticles with molybdate are synthesized through green method with different salt precursors using Moringa oleifera leaf extract. Those nanoparticles had structural, vibrational, and morphological properties, which were determined by X-ray diffraction (XRD). The crystalline size of synthesized zinc molybdate was 24.9 nm. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy and field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM) clearly showed the attachment of molybdate with ZnO. The synthesized nanomaterial was also characterized through UV-visible spectroscopy which had 4.40 eV band gap energy. Those nanoparticles were also characterized via thermogravimetric analysis (TGA-DTA) and photoluminance spectroscopy (PL). ZnMoO4 had photocatalytic property via methylene blue dye. After 190 minutes, the dye changed to colourless from blue colour. The degradation efficiency was around 92.8%. It also showed their antibacterial effect via Escherichia coli and Staphylococcusaureus bacterial strains. In the presence of light and air, nanoparticles of ZnMoO4 inhibit the growth of cells of E. coli and S. aureus bacterial strains because of ROS (reactive oxygen species) generation. Because of the formation of singlet oxygen (O2∗-), hydrogen oxide radical (-OH∗), and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), ZnMoO4 showed photodegradation reaction against aq. solution of methylene blue dye at 6 pH with constant time interval. With time, the activity of ZnMoO4 also decreased because of the generation of a layer of hydrogen oxide (-OH) on nanomaterial surface, which could be washed with ethanol and distilled water. After drying, the catalytic Zinc molybdate nanoparticles could be reused again in the next catalytic reaction.

Development and Optimization of Tamarind Gum-ß-Cyclodextrin-g-Poly(Methacrylate) pH-Responsive Hydrogels for Sustained Delivery of Acyclovir.

Acyclovir has a short half-life and offers poor bioavailability. Its daily dose is 200 mg five times a day. A tamarind gum and ß-cyclodextrin-based pH-responsive hydrogel network for sustained delivery of acyclovir was developed using the free-radical polymerization technique. Developed networks were characterized by FTIR, DSC, TGA, PXRD, EDX, and SEM. The effect of varying feed ratios of polymers, monomers, and crosslinker on the gel fraction, swelling, and release was also investigated. FTIR findings confirmed the compatibility of the ingredients in a new complex polymer. The thermal stability of acyclovir was increased within the newly synthesized polymer. SEM photomicrographs confirmed the porous texture of hydrogels. The gel fraction was improved (from 90.12% to 98.12%) with increased reactant concentrations. The pH of the dissolution medium and the reactant contents affected swelling dynamics and acyclovir release from the developed carrier system. Based on the R2 value, the best-fit model was zero-order kinetics with non-Fickian diffusion as a release mechanism. The biocompatibility of the developed network was confirmed through hematology, LFT, RFT, lipid profile, and histopathological examinations. No sign of pathology, necrosis, or abrasion was observed. Thus, a pH-responsive and biocompatible polymeric system was developed for sustained delivery of acyclovir to reduce the dosing frequency and improve patient compliance.