Streptococcus pneumoniae among the children of Aden, Yemen: a cross-sectional report of post-pneumococcal conjugate vaccine.

INTRODUCTION: Streptococcus pneumoniae cause a significant global health challenge. We aimed to determine nasopharyngeal carriage, serotypes distribution, and antimicrobial profile of pneumococci among the children of Aden. METHODOLOGY: A total of 385 children, aged 2-17 years, were included. Asymptomatic samples were randomly collected from children in selected schools and vaccination centers. Symptomatic samples were obtained from selected pediatric clinics. The nasopharyngeal swabs were tested for pneumococci using culture and real time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). Serotyping was done with a pneumotest-latex kit and antimicrobial susceptibility was tested by disc diffusion and Epsilometer test. RESULTS: The total pneumococcal carriage was 44.4% and 57.1% by culture and RT-PCR, respectively. There was a statistically significant association between carriage rate and living in single room (OR = 7.9; p = 0.00001), sharing a sleeping space (OR = 15.1; p = 0.00001), and low monthly income (OR = 2.02; p = 0.007). The common serotypes were 19, 1, 4, 5, 2, and 23. The proportion of non-pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (non-PCV13) serotypes was 24%. Pneumococci were resistant to penicillin (96.5%), cefepime (15.8%), ceftriaxone (16.4%), and amoxicillin-clavulanate (0%). Erythromycin, azithromycin, and doxycycline had resistance rates of 48%, 31%, and 53.3%, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: A high pneumococcal carriage rate was observed in Yemeni children, particularly in low-income households and shared living conditions. There was significant penicillin resistance at meningitis breakpoint. Furthermore, non-PCV13 serotypes were gradually replacing PCV13 serotypes. The findings underscore the urgent need for enhanced surveillance and stewardship to improve vaccination and antibiotic policies in Yemen.

Targeting inflammatory signaling in obsessive compulsive disorder: a promising approach.

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a neuropsychiatric disorder. Approximately, around 2% to 3% percent of the general population experience symptoms of OCD over the course of their lifetime. OCD can lead to economic burden, poor quality of life, and disability. The characteristic features exhibited generally in OCD are continuous intrusive thoughts and periodic ritualized behaviours. Variations in genes, pathological function of Cortico-Striato-Thalamo-Cortical (CSTC) circuits and dysregulation in the synaptic conduction have been the major factors involved in the pathological progression of OCD. However, the basic mechanisms still largely unknown. Current therapies for OCD largely target monoaminergic neurotransmitters (NTs) in specific dopaminergic and serotonergic circuits. However, such therapies have limited efficacy and tolerability. Drug resistance has been one of the important reasons reported to critically influence the effectiveness of the available drugs. Inflammation has been a crucial factor which is believed to have a significant importance in OCD progression. A significant number of proinflammatory cytokines have been reportedly amplified in patients with OCD. Mechanisms of drug treatment involve attenuation of the symptoms via modulation of inflammatory signalling pathways, modification in brain structure, and synaptic plasticity. Hence, targeting inflammatory signaling may be considered as a suitable approach in the treatment of OCD. The present review focuses mainly on the significant findings from the animal and human studies conducted in this area, that targets inflammatory signaling in neurological conditions. In addition, it also focusses on the therapeutic approaches that target OCD via modification of the inflammatory signaling pathways.

Neurological manifestations of SARS-CoV-2: complexity, mechanism and associated disorders.

BACKGROUND: Coronaviruses such as Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome coronavirus (SARS), Middle Eastern Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) and Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) are associated with critical illnesses, including severe respiratory disorders. SARS-CoV-2 is the causative agent of the deadly COVID-19 illness, which has spread globally as a pandemic. SARS-CoV-2 may enter the human body through olfactory lobes and interact with the angiotensin-converting enzyme2 (ACE2) receptor, further facilitating cell binding and entry into the cells. Reports have shown that the virus can pass through the blood-brain barrier (BBB) and enter the central nervous system (CNS), resulting in various disorders. Cell entry by SARS-CoV-2 largely relies on TMPRSS2 and cathepsin L, which activate S protein. TMPRSS2 is found on the cell surface of respiratory, gastrointestinal and urogenital epithelium, while cathepsin-L is a part of endosomes. AIM: The current review aims to provide information on how SARS-CoV-2 infection affects brain function.. Furthermore, CNS disorders associated with SARS-CoV-2 infection, including ischemic stroke, cerebral venous thrombosis, Guillain-Barré syndrome, multiple sclerosis, meningitis, and encephalitis, are discussed. The many probable mechanisms and paths involved in developing cerebrovascular problems in COVID patients are thoroughly detailed. MAIN BODY: There have been reports that the SARS-CoV-2 virus can cross the blood-brain barrier (BBB) and enter the central nervous system (CNS), where it could cause a various illnesses. Patients suffering from COVID-19 experience a range of neurological complications, including sleep disorders, viral encephalitis, headaches, dysgeusia, and cognitive impairment. The presence of SARS-CoV-2 in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) of COVID-19 patients has been reported. Health experts also reported its presence in cortical neurons and human brain organoids. The possible mechanism of virus infiltration into the brain can be neurotropic, direct infiltration and cytokine storm-based pathways. The olfactory lobes could also be the primary pathway for the entrance of SARS-CoV-2 into the brain. CONCLUSIONS: SARS-CoV-2 can lead to neurological complications, such as cerebrovascular manifestations, motor movement complications, and cognitive decline. COVID-19 infection can result in cerebrovascular symptoms and diseases, such as strokes and thrombosis. The virus can affect the neural system, disrupt cognitive function and cause neurological disorders. To combat the epidemic, it is crucial to repurpose drugs currently in use quickly and develop novel therapeutics.

Prospects of chitinase in sustainable farming and modern biotechnology: an update on recent progress and challenges.

Chitinases are multifunctional biocatalysts for the pest control and useful in modern biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries. Chemical-based fungicides and insecticides have caused more severe effects on environment and human health. Many pathogenic fungal species and insects became resistant to the chemical pesticides. The resistant fungi emerged as a multidrug resistant also and less susceptible insects are not possible to control adequately. Chitinases have an immense potential to be exploited as a biopesticide against fungi and insects. The direct use of chitinase in liquid formulation or whole microbial enzyme producing cells, both act as antagonistically against the pests. Chitinase can disintegrate the fungal cell wall and insect integument that holds the chitin as a vital structural component. Moreover, chitinase is applied for the synthesis of pharmaceutically important chitooligosaccharides. Chitinase producing microbes have the huge potential to utilize against the waste management of sea food remains like shells of crustaceans. Chitinase is valuable for the synthesis of protoplasts from industrially important fungi, further it act as the biocontrol agent of malaria and dengue fever causing larvae of mosquitoes. Chitinases also have been successfully used in wine and single cell protein producing industries. Present review is illustrating the updated information on the state of the art of different applications of chitinases in agriculture and biotechnology industry. It also bestows the understanding to the readers about the areas of extensively studied and the field where there is still much left to be done.

Biosurfactant from Candida: sources, classification, and emerging applications.

Biosurfactants are surface-active molecules that are synthesized by many microorganisms like fungi, bacteria, and yeast. These molecules are amphiphilic in nature, possessing emulsifying ability, detergency, foaming, and surface-activity like characteristics. Yeast species belongs to the genus Candida has gained globally enormous interest because of the diverse properties of biosurfactants produced by theme. In contrast to synthetic surfactants, biosurfactants are claimed to be biodegradable and non-toxic which labels them as a potent industrial compound. Biosurfactants produced by this genus are reported to possess certain biological activities, such as anticancer and antiviral activities. They also have potential industrial applications in bioremediation, oil recovery, agricultural, pharmaceutical, biomedical, food, and cosmetic industries. Various species of Candida have been recognized as biosurfactant producers, including Candida petrophilum, Candida bogoriensis, Candida antarctica, Candida lipolytica, Candida albicans, Candida batistae, Candida albicans, Candida sphaerica, etc. These species produce various forms of biosurfactants, such as glycolipids, lipopeptides, fatty acids, and polymeric biosurfactants, which are distinct according to their molecular weights. Herein, we provide a detailed overview of various types of biosurfactants produced by Candida sp., process optimization for better production, and the latest updates on the applications of these biosurfactants.

Effects of Current Psychotropic Drugs on Inflammation and Immune System.

The immune system and inflammation are involved in the pathological progression of various psychiatric disorders such as depression or major depressive disorder (MDD), generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) or anxiety, schizophrenia, Alzheimer's disease (AD), and Huntington's disease. It is observed that levels of inflammatory cytokines such as tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-1ß (IL-1ß), and other markers are highly increased in the abovementioned disorders. The inflammation and immune component also lead to enhance the oxidative stress. The oxidative stress and increased production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) are considered as important factors that are involved in pathological progression of psychiatric disorders. Increase production of ROS is associated with excessive inflammation followed by cell necrosis and death. The psychotropic drugs are mainly work through modulations of neurotransmitter system. However, it is evident that inflammation and immune modulation are also having important role in the progression of psychiatric disorders. Rationale of the use of current psychotropic drugs is modulation of immune system by them. However, the effects of psychotropic drugs on the immune system and how these might contribute to their efficacy remain largely unclear. The drugs may act through modification of inflammation and related markers. The main purpose of this book chapter is to address the role of current psychotropic drugs on inflammation and immune system. Moreover, it will also address the role of inflammation in the progression of psychiatric disorders.

A glass matrices-assisted quantum dots-based biosensor for selective capturing and detection of Escherichia coli.

Bacterial contamination of water and food is a grave health concern rendering humans quite vulnerable to disease(s), and proving, at times, fatal too. Exploration of the novel diagnostic tools is, accordingly, highly called for to ensure rapid detection of the pathogenic bacteria, particularly Escherichia coli. The current manuscript, accordingly, reports the use of silane-functionalized glass matrices and antibody-conjugated cadmium telluride (CdTe) quantum dots (QDs) for efficient detection of E. coli. Synthesis of QDs (size: 5.4-6.8 nm) using mercaptopropionic acid (MPA) stabilizer yielded stable photoluminescence (∼62%), corroborating superior fluorescent characteristics. A test sample, when added to antibody-conjugated matrices, followed by antibody-conjugated CdTe-MPA QDs, formed a pathogen-antibody QDs complex. The latter, during confocal microscopy, demonstrated rapid detection of the selectively captured pathogenic bacteria (10 microorganism cells/10 µL) with enhanced sensitivity and specificity. The work, overall, encompasses establishment and design of an innovative detection platform in microbial diagnostics for rapid capturing of pathogens in water and food samples.

Cyclodextrin Derivative Enhances the Ophthalmic Delivery of Poorly Soluble Azithromycin.

Azithromycin (AZM), a macrolide antibiotic used for the treatment of chlamydial conjunctivitis, is less effective for the treatment of this disease due to its poor bioavailability (38%). Various alternatives have been developed for improving the physicochemical properties (i.e., solubility) of the AZM without much success. To overcome the problems associated with AZM, an inclusion complex employing a modified cyclodextrin, i.e., sulfobutylether-ß-cyclodextrin (SBE-ß-CD), was prepared and characterized by phase solubility studies and PXRD techniques. The results portrayed the formation of an inclusion complex of AZM with SBE-ß-CD in 1:2 molar stoichiometric ratios. This inclusion complex was later incorporated into a polymer matrix to prepare an in situ gel. Various combinations of Carbopol 934P and hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC K4M) polymers were used and evaluated by rheological and in vitro drug release studies. The optimized formulation (F4) containing Carbopol 934P (0.2% w/v) and HPMC K4M (0.2% w/v) was evaluated for clarity, pH, gelling capacity, drug content, rheological properties, in vitro drug release pattern, ocular irritation test, and antimicrobial efficacy. Finally, owing to the improved antimicrobial efficacy and increased residence time, the AZM:SBE-ß-CD in situ gel was found to be a promising formulation for the efficient treatment of bacterial ocular disease.

Development of magnetic nanoparticle assisted aptamer-quantum dot based biosensor for the detection of Escherichia coli in water samples.

The contamination of food and potable water with microorganisms may cause food-borne and water-borne diseases. The common contaminants include Escherichia coli (E. coli), Salmonella sp. etc. The conventional methods for monitoring the water quality for the presence of bacterial contaminants are time-consuming, expensive, and not suitable for rapid on-spot detection in field conditions. In the current study, super paramagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPIONs) were synthesized and conjugated with E. coli specific Aptamer I to detect E. coli cells qualitatively as well as quantitatively. The sludge consisting of E. coli- SPION complex was separated via magnetic separation. The presence of E. coli cells was confirmed with the help of standard techniques and confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) employing Aptamer II conjugated CdTe-MPA quantum dots (QDs). Finally, an ATmega 328P prototype biosensor based on Aptamer II conjugated CdTe MPA QDs exhibited quantitative and qualitative abilities to detect E.coli. This prototype biosensor can even detect low bacterial counts (up to 1 × 102 cfu) with the help of a photodiode and plano-convex lens. Further, the prototype biosensor made up of ultraviolet light-emitting diode (UV LED), liquid crystal display (LCD) and ATmega328Pmicrocontroller offers on-spot detection of E.coli in water samples with high resolution and sensitivity. Similarly, this in-house developed prototype biosensor can also be utilized to detect bacterial contamination in food samples.

Ameliorative potential of Operculina turpethum against streptozotocin-induced diabetes in rats: biochemical and histopathological studies.

The study aimed to investigate the acute toxicity, antidiabetic potential (in-vitro and in-vivo) of the Operculina turpethum (L.) Silva Manso at fraction level. The plant was fractionated into different fractions, i.e., flavonoid fraction (OTFF), tannin fraction (OTTF), saponin fraction (OTSF). In-vitro alpha-amylase inhibition assay revealed that OTFF was found to be more potent than standard Acarbose. The plant fractions were evaluated by MTT assay at different concentrations ranging from 100 to 1000 µg/ml. All the fractions were further evaluated for their safety profile, and the biochemical, hematology and histopathology result exhibits that the OTFF fraction produces mild toxicity at organ level at a concentration of 2000 mg/kg in albino mice. The in-vivo antidiabetic study was carried out on Sprague-Dawley rats using high-fat diet (HFD) feeding streptozotocin (STZ) diabetic model, and the biochemical, histopathology research findings represent that OTFF at a concentration of 500 mg/kg, p.o. was found to be highly significant among all the fractions and found to be more potent than the standard Acarbose. LC-MS characterization of the bioactive fraction OTFF showed the presence of rutin with m/z 610.52 in 50.50% and Apigenin 7-O-6'' acetyl-glucoside with m/z 475.42 in 24.10%; from molecular docking study, it is predicted that the fraction primarily acts as an alpha-amylase inhibitor and PPAR gamma agonist. In conclusion, the plant's OTFF fraction acts as a potential therapeutic agent for Type II diabetes mellitus.

Fluorescent quantum dots: An insight on synthesis and potential biological application as drug carrier in cancer.

Quantum dots (QDs) are nanocrystals of semiconducting material possessing quantum mechanical characteristics with capability to get conjugated with drug moieties. The particle size of QDs varies from 2 to 10 nm and can radiate a wide range of colours depending upon their size. Their wide and diverse usage of QDs across the world is due to their adaptable properties like large quantum yield, photostability, and adjustable emission spectrum. QDs are nanomaterials with inherent electrical characteristics that can be used as drug carrier vehicle and as a diagnostic in the field of nanomedicine. Scientists from various fields are aggressively working for the development of single platform that can sense, can produce a microscopic image and even be used to deliver a therapeutic agent. QDs are the fluorescent nano dots with which the possibilities of the drug delivery to a targeted site and its biomedical imaging can be explored. This review is mainly focused on the different process of synthesis of QDs, their application especially in the areas of malignancies and as a theranostic tool. The attempt is to consolidate the data available for the use of QDs in the biomedical applications.

In vitro anthelmintic activity of Chenopodium album and in-silico prediction of mechanistic role on Eisenia foetida.

Helminths born diseases are related to pitiable management practices and improper control strategies. The medicinal plants contain various phytoconstituents that are liable for their anthelmintic activity. The aerial parts of the Chenopodium album were successively extracted with microwaves assisted extraction using petroleum ether, ethyl acetate, methanol, hydroalcoholic and aqueous solvents to get respective extracts (CAPE, CAEE, CAME, CAHE, and CAAE). All the extracts were analyzed for preliminary phytochemical screening for the identification of phytoconstituents. The anthelmintic activity was analyzed on Indian adult earthworms Eisenia foetida using piperazine citrate (PCT) as a standard drug. All the extracts (apart from CAAE) lead to paralysis and fatality of the earthworms. CAEE extract exhibits highly significant anthelmintic activity at a 10 mg/ml concentration by causing paralysis and fatality of earthworms and was more potent than PCT suspension. At a concentration of 10 mg/ml, paralysis and death time for CAEE was recorded as (10.08 ± 1.11) and (65.28 ± 2.09) respectively, while for standard piperazine citrate, it was recorded as (22.96 ± 1.12) and (65.09 ± 1.23). The CAEE exhibits two major compounds by LC-MS, i.e., NG and DG, that are mainly accountable for the Chenopodium album anthelmintic activity. The plant possesses GABA-mimetic action and thereby leads to flaccid, reversible paralysis of the body wall muscle.

The Possible Role of Saponin in Type-II Diabetes- A Review.

BACKGROUND: The possible role of secondary metabolites in the management of diabetes is a great concern and constant discussion. This characteristic seems relevant and should be the subject of thorough discussion with respect to saponin. OBJECTIVE: The current data mainly focus on the impact of saponin in the treatment of type-II diabetes. The majority of studies emphasize on other secondary metabolites such as alkaloids and flavonoids, but very few papers are there representing the possible role of saponin as these papers express the narrow perspective of saponin phytoconstituents but lacking in providing the complete information on various saponin plants. The aim of the study was to summarize all available data concerning the saponin containing plant in the management of type-II diabetes. METHODS: All relevant papers on saponin were selected. This review summarizes the saponin isolation method, mechanism of action, clinical significance, medicinal plants and phytoconstituents responsible for producing a therapeutic effect in the management of diabetes. RESULTS: The saponin is of high potential with structural diversity and inhibits diabetic complications along with reducing the hyperglycemia through different mechanisms thereby providing scope for improving the existing therapy and developing the novel medicinal agents for curing diabetes. CONCLUSION: Saponins having potential therapeutic benefits and are theorized as an alternative medication in decreasing serum blood glucose levels in the patient suffering from diabetes.

Global trends in pesticides: A looming threat and viable alternatives.

Pesticides are widely used chemical compounds in agriculture to destroy insects, pests and weeds. In modern era, they form an indispensable part of agricultural and health practices. Globally, nearly 3 billion kg of pesticides are used every year with a budget of ~40 billion USD. This extensive usage has increased the crop yield as well as led to significant reduction in harvest losses and thereby, enhanced food availability. On the other hand, indiscriminate usage of these chemicals has led to several environmental implications and caused adverse effects on human health. Epidemiological evidences have revealed the harmful effects of pesticides exposure on various organs including liver, brain, lungs and colon. Recent investigations have shown that pesticides can also lead to fatal consequences such as cancer among individuals. These chemicals enter ecosystem, thus hampering the sensitive environmental equilibrium through bio-accumulation. Due to their non-biodegradable nature, they can persist in nature for years and are regarded as potent biohazard. Worldwide, very few surveillance methods have been considered, which can bring awareness among the individuals, therefore the present review is an attempt to delineate consequences induced by various types of pesticide exposure on the environment. Further, the prospective of biopesticides use could facilitate the increase of crop production without compromising human health.

An Insight of Alpha-amylase Inhibitors as a Valuable Tool in the Management of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus.

BACKGROUND: Among the millions of people around the world, the most prevalent metabolic disorder is diabetes mellitus. Due to the drawbacks which are associated with commercially available antidiabetic agents, new therapeutic approaches are needed to be considered. Alpha-amylase is a membrane- bound enzyme which is responsible for the breakdown of polysaccharides such as starch to monosaccharides which can be absorbed. METHODS: We searched the scientific database using alpha-amylase, diabetes, antidiabetic agents as the keywords. Here in, only peer-reviewed research articles were collected which were useful to our current work. RESULTS: To overcome the research gap, the alpha-amylase enzyme is regarded as a good target for antidiabetic agents to design the drug and provide an alternate approach for the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus. Basically, alpha-amylase inhibitors are classified into two groups: proteinaceous inhibitors, and non-proteinaceous inhibitors. Recently, non-proteinaceous inhibitors are being explored which includes chalcones, flavones, benzothiazoles, etc. as the potential antidiabetic agents. CONCLUSION: Herein, we discuss various potential antidiabetic agents which are strategically targeted alpha-amylase enzyme. These are having lesser side effects as compared to other antidiabetic agents, and are proposed to prevent the digestion and absorption of glucose leading to a decrease in the blood glucose level.