Deep eutectic solvents: Preparation, properties, and food applications

Deep Eutectic Solvents (DESs) emerge as innovative 21st-century solvents, supplanting traditional ones like ethanol and n-hexane. Renowned for their non-toxic, biodegradable, and water-miscible nature with reduced volatility, DESs are mostly synthesized through heating and stirring method. Physicochemical properties such as polarity, viscosity, density and surface tension of DESs influenced their application. This review paper gives the overview of application of eco-benign DESs in fruits, vegetables, cereals, pulses, spices, herbs, plantation crops, oil seed crops, medicinal and aromatic plants, seaweed, and milk for the extraction of bioactive compounds. Also, it gives insight of determination of pesticides, insecticides, hazardous and toxic compounds, removal of heavy metals, detection of illegal milk additive, purification of antibiotics and preparation of packaging film. Methodologies for separating bioactive compounds from DESs extracts are systematically examined. Further, safety regulations of DESs are briefly discussed and reviewed literature reveals prevalent utilization of DES-based bioactive compound rich extracts in cosmetics, indicating untapped potential of their application in the food industry.

SDC4-rs1981429 and ATM-rs228590 may provide early biomarkers of breast cancer risk

In Australia, 13% of women are diagnosed with breast cancer (BC) in their lifetime with approximately 20,000 women diagnosed with the disease in 2021. BC is characterised by complex histological and genomic influences with recent advances in cancer biology improving early diagnosis and personalised treatment interventions. The Phosphatidyl-inositol-3-kinase/Protein kinase B (PI3K/AKT) pathway is essential in apoptosis resistance, cell survival, activation of cellular responses to DNA damage and DNA repair. Heparan sulfate proteoglycans (HSPGs) are ubiquitous molecules found on the cell surface and in the extracellular matrix with essential functions in regulating cell survival, growth, adhesion and as mediators of cell differentiation and migration. HSPGs, particularly the syndecans (SDCs), have been linked to cancers, making them an exciting target for anticancer treatments. In the PI3K/AKT pathway, syndecan-4 (SDC4) has been shown to downregulate AKT Serine/Threonine Kinase (AKT1) gene expression, while the ATM Serine/Threonine Kinase (ATM) gene has been found to inhibit this pathway upstream of AKT. We investigated single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in HSPG and related genes SDC4, AKT1 and ATM and their influence on the prevalence of BC. SNPs were genotyped in the Australian Caucasian Genomics Research Centre Breast Cancer (GRC-BC) population and in the Griffith University-Cancer Council Queensland Breast Cancer Biobank (GU-CCQ BB) population. We identified that SDC4-rs1981429 and ATM-rs228590 may influence the development and progression of BC, having the potential to become biomarkers in early BC diagnosis and personalised treatment.

A study on impact of coronavirus pandemic on the education system

Objective: Because of the recent COVID-19 outbreak, the government decides to close the schools to avoid the virus chain. However, that made a tremendous impact on the education system. Hence, the research’s main aim focuses on the effect of the education system on the corona. Method: Research has implemented a descriptive method. Through the standardized questionnaire using the Likert scale, the data was collected via an online survey, where 300 respondents were found to be used as the sample size and regression analysis to prove the significance of the findings. Findings: The study found that obstacles act as a roadblock in the education system, while the study found resources that were also helpful to students and teachers. Practical Implication: Application of such factors by leveraging the educational sector as an opportunity could work for them if effectively applied. Students will learn something new and develop technological skills they would not have had before. Originality/Value: Researchers have studied challenges and opportunities during a pandemic situation by applying theories and analyzing the impact on the education system. The current research considers such aspects as to what effect on the education sector or how it handles the framework as a burden or as an opportunity.

Direct measurement of shear properties of microfibers

As novel fibers with enhanced mechanical properties continue to be synthesized and developed, the ability to easily and accurately characterize these materials becomes increasingly important. Here we present a design for an inexpensive tabletop instrument to measure shear modulus (G) and other longitudinal shear properties of a micrometer-sized monofilament fiber sample, such as nonlinearities and hysteresis. This automated system applies twist to the sample and measures the resulting torque using a sensitive optical detector that tracks a torsion reference. The accuracy of the instrument was verified by measuring G for high purity copper and tungsten fibers, for which G is well known. Two industrially important fibers, IM7 carbon fiber and Kevlar(®) 119, were also characterized with this system and were found to have G = 16.5 ± 2.1 and 2.42 ± 0.32 GPa, respectively.

Role of the QuantiFERON®-TB Gold In-Tube test in the diagnosis of intrathoracic childhood tuberculosis

SETTING

Tertiary care hospitals in India.

OBJECTIVE

To compare the performance of the QuantiFERON®-TB Gold In-Tube test (QFT-GIT) with that of the tuberculin skin test (TST) in the diagnosis of intrathoracic childhood tuberculosis (TB).

METHODS

Children with intrathoracic TB were enrolled in a randomised controlled trial studying micronutrient supplementation in intrathoracic TB. They underwent TST and QFT-GIT before starting daily anti-tuberculosis treatment.

RESULTS

Of 362 children (median age 115.5 months, IQR 73-144, 55% girls) enrolled in the study, microbiological confirmation of TB was obtained in 128 (35%). The TST was positive in 337 (93%, 95%CI 90-95.5) and QFT-GIT in 297 (82%, 95%CI 77.8-85.6). Sensitivity of TST and QFT-GIT in culture-confirmed TB cases was respectively 90.5% (95%CI 84.1-94.5) and 82.6% (95%CI 74.9-88.4). QFT-GIT positivity rate correlated with TST induration (P < 0.001). TST was influenced by the disease spectrum (P = 0.004) and the age of the children (P = 0.002); QFT-GIT remained unaffected by these factors. Bacille Calmette-Guérin immunisation status, weight-for-age Z-scores and microbiological confirmation of Mycobacterium tuberculosis did not influence the performance of either test.

CONCLUSION

In high-burden countries, QFT-GIT is comparable to TST and offers no added advantage in the diagnosis of childhood intrathoracic TB.

Formulation, development and optimization of raloxifene-loaded chitosan nanoparticles for treatment of osteoporosis

CONTEXT

Osteoporosis (OP) is a disease of skeletal system and is associated with fragility fracture at the hip, spine and wrist. Various drugs have been used to treat OP. One of them is raloxifene hydrochloride (RLX), a second-generation selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM) approved by the USFDA. RLX possesses only 2% absolute bioavailability (BA) by oral route due to its extensive first-pass metabolism.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of the current research work was to develop and evaluate RLX-loaded chitosan nanoparticles (CS-NPs) for treatment of OP with enhanced BA.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The RLX-loaded CS-NPs were prepared by gelation of CS with tripolyphosphate (TPP) by ionic cross-linking. Formulation was optimized and in vitro drug release and in vivo study were performed.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSIONS

CS-NPs were formed by the ionic gelation method. The particle size, entrapment efficiency and loading efficiency varied from 216.65 to 1890 nm, 32.84 to 97.78% and 23.89 to 62.46%, respectively. Release kinetics showed diffusion-controlled and Fickian release pattern. In vivo study indicated higher plasma drug concentration with NPs administered intranasally as compared to drug suspension administered through oral route (p < 0.05). A significantly higher drug concentration in plasma was achieved in 10 min after nasal administration with respect to oral administration.

CONCLUSION

The results suggest that RLX-loaded CS-NPs have better BA and would be a promising approach for intranasal (i.n.) delivery of RLX for the treatment of OP.

Effect of micronutrient deficiency on QuantiFERON-TB Gold In-Tube test and tuberculin skin test in diagnosis of childhood intrathoracic tuberculosis

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES

Data on performance of QuantiFERON-TB Gold In-Tube test (QFT) and tuberculin skin test (TST) in children with active tuberculosis from high burden countries in the context of micronutrient deficiency are scarce. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of micronutrient deficiency on the performance of TST and QFT in children with intrathoracic tuberculosis.

SUBJECTS/METHODS

Children with probable intrathoracic tuberculosis underwent TST, QFT, gastric lavages and induced sputum examination for AFB (Acid-Fast Bacilli) smear and culture. Zinc, copper, ferritin and vitamin D were measured on stored serum samples. The study used cross-sectional data at initiation of anti-tubercular therapy.

RESULTS

Three hundred and sixty-two children (median age 115.5 months (interquartile range: 73, 144), 200 (55.3%) girls) were enrolled in the study. Microbiological confirmation of tuberculosis could be obtained in 128 patients. TST and QFT were positive in 337 (93%) and 297 (82%) children, respectively. Performance of both the tests was unaffected by weight-for-age and height-for-age 'z-scores' or by serum copper levels. TST was not affected by serum zinc and ferritin levels. Children with negative QFT results had lower mean serum zinc level (P=0.01) and higher ferritin levels (P=0.007) as compared to those with positive test. Higher proportion of children with positive TST were vitamin D deficient/insufficient (P=0.003).

CONCLUSION

Micronutrient status, especially serum levels of zinc, may influence the performance of QFT in children with intrathoracic tuberculosis. Considering the high prevalence of zinc deficiency in developing countries, QFT should be used cautiously for diagnosing tuberculosis.

Protective role of Trigonella foenum graceum extract against oxidative stress in hyperglycemic rats

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

"In all things of nature there is something of the marvelous". In the present study the anti-hyperglycemic and anti-oxidative potential of aqueous extract of Trigonella foenum graceum (TFG), a traditional medicinal herb was assessed in liver and WBC of alloxan induced diabetic rats. Free radicals can cause oxidative damage, which is balanced by the antioxidants. This has been implicated in aging, and diseases such as diabetes and other chronic conditions.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

TFG extract was administered orally [500 (LM) and 1000 mg/kg body weight (HM)] for six weeks. The effect of TFG on blood glucose were studied and the levels of lipid peroxidation [MDA (Malondialdehyde)] and antioxidant enzymes [SOD (Superoxide dismutase), GPx (Reduced Glutathione peroxidase)] were estimated and compared with standard drugs glibenclamide and insulin.

RESULTS

Treatment with TFG, insulin and glibenclamide resulted in significantly reduced blood glucose in LM (8.71%) and HM (3.87%) in comparison with normal controls. There was a significant decrease in lipid peroxidation in liver and white blood cells (WBC) in both low and high doses [liver LM (49%), HM (57.25%)], [WBC LM (54.28%), HM (62.5%)] and increase in antioxidant enzymes SOD [liver LM (33.59%), HM (58.7%)] [WBC LM (44.9%)] HM (58.7%) and GPx [Liver LM (58.55%), HM (40.20%)], [WBC LM (55.46%), HM (56.4%)] when compared to diabetic controls.

DISCUSSION

Potency of TFG in restoring several parameters to normal values is comparable to glibenclamide, though not as efficient as insulin, an indication of its antihyperglycemic and antioxidant effect.

Oleanolic Acid, a plant triterpenoid, significantly improves survival and function of islet allograft

BACKGROUND.: Oleanolic acid (OA) is a ubiquitous triterpenoid, with potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Here, we tested whether these combined properties of OA can prevent nonimmunologic primary nonfunctioning and immunologic phenomena ascribed to graft rejection hence prolong islet allograft survival. METHODS.: Islet transplants were performed under kidney capsule of streptozotocin-induced diabetic C57BL/6 mice with BALB/c islets. Recipients were treated with 0.5 mg/day of OA intraperitoneally, and serum samples were collected once in 2 days and used for luminex, ELISA, and donor-specific antibody screening. Transplanted mice were killed at different time intervals to obtain splenocytes and kidney samples for ELISPOT, mixed leukocyte reaction, and immunohistochemical studies. RESULTS.: After transplantation, the decrement of blood glucose was significantly faster in mice receiving OA less than 2+/-1 days compared with untreated (4+/-2 days). OA prolonged survival of transplanted islets up to 23+/-3 days and reversed diabetes even with 250 islets. Treatment group showed increased serum interleukin (IL)-10 (twofold) and decreased inducible protein-10 and IL-4 (threefold) in luminex. Significantly reduced frequency of interferon-gamma (4.5-fold), IL-4 (3.5-fold), IL-2 (2.3-fold), and IL-17 (fourfold) producing T-cell populations were found in ELISPOT. OA-treated grafts had significant reduced and delayed infiltration of CD4+ and CD8+ T cells. OA also delayed donor-specific antibody generation up to 19 days after transplantation. Combined treatment with cyclosporine A, OA further prolonged the islet allograft survival to 34+/-3 days. CONCLUSIONS.: In conclusion, OA is an attractive, dietary nontoxic plant triterpenoid, which suppresses the production of proinflammatory cytokines and delays graft-specific immune responses to prolong islet allograft survival.

Particle Size and Charge Distribution Analysis of Pharmaceutical Aerosols Generated by Inhalers

Aerosol particles generated by inhalers for respiratory drug delivery acquire electrostatic charge during the dispersion process. The electrostatic charge distribution of the particles can affect the efficiency of drug delivery by influencing both the transport and deposition of inhaled particles in the human lung. To analyze the electrostatic charge acquired by the aerosol particles, two sets of metered-dose inhaler (MDI) and dry powder inhaler (DPI) devices were investigated. Both the particle size and charge distributions were measured simultaneously by using an electrical single-particle aerodynamic relaxation time (E-SPART) analyzer. The analyzer was calibrated with particles of known size, which were generated by a vibrating orifice aerosol generator (TSI Inc.) and charge using the Faraday cup method. The charge distributions of the pharmaceutical aerosols from both the DPI and MDI devices were bipolar in nature. Although the net charge-to-mass ratio was less than 0.2 microC/g, the individual particles were charged with a relatively high charge: -2 to + 2 microC/g. The count mean aerodynamic diameter of the aerosols generated from these devices was 3-5 microm.

Activated effector and memory T cells contribute to circulating sCD30: potential marker for islet allograft rejection

T-cell activation up-regulates CD30 resulting in an increase in serum soluble CD30 (sCD30). CD4+ T cells, a major source for sCD30, play a significant role in the pathogenesis of rejection. In this study, sCD30 was measured pre- and posttransplant in mouse islet allograft models and human islet allograft recipients. sCD30 was measured by ELISA in diabetic C57BL/6, CD4Knockout (KO) and CD8KO islet allograft recipients. sCD30 increased significantly prior to rejection (1.8 +/- 1 days) in 80% of allograft recipients. Sensitization with donor splenocytes, or a second graft, further increased sCD30 (282.5 +/- 53.5 for the rejecting first graft vs. 374.6 +/- 129 for the rejecting second graft) prior to rejection suggesting memory CD4+ T cells contribute to sCD30. CD4KO failed to reject islet allograft and did not demonstrate sCD30 increase. CD8KO showed elevated (227 +/- 107) sCD30 (1 day) prior to rejection. High pretransplant sCD30 (>20 U/ml) correlated with poor outcome in human islet allograft recipients. Further, increase in sCD30 posttransplant preceded (3-4 months) loss of islet function. We conclude that sCD30 is released from activated CD4 T cells prior to islet allograft rejection and monitoring sCD30 can be a valuable adjunct in the follow-up of islet transplant recipients.

Class Level Test Case Generation in Object Oriented Software Testing

Object-oriented programming consists of several different levels of abstraction, namely, the algorithmic level, class level, cluster level, and system level. In this article, we discuss a testing technique to generate test cases at class level for object-oriented programs. The formal object oriented class specification is used to develop a test model. This test model is based on finite state machine specification. The class specification and the test model is analyzed to select a set of test data for each method of the class, and finally the test cases can be generated using other testing techniques like finite-state testing or data-flow testing.

Simplified dispatch-assisted CPR instructions outperform standard protocol

OBJECTIVE

Dispatch-assisted chest compressions only CPR (CC-CPR) has gained widespread acceptance, and recent research suggests that increasing the proportion of compression time during CPR may increase survival from out-of-hospital cardiac arrest. We created a simplified CC-CPR protocol to reduce time to start chest compressions and to increase the proportion of time spent delivering chest compressions. This simplified protocol was compared to a published protocol, Medical Priority Dispatch System (MPDS) Version 11.2, recommended by the National Academies of Emergency Dispatch.

METHODS

Subjects were randomized to the MPDS v11.2 protocol or a simplified protocol. Data was recorded from a Laerdal Resusci Anne Skillreporter manikin. A simulated emergency medical dispatcher, contacted by cell phone, delivered standardized instructions for both protocols. Outcomes included chest compression rate, depth, hand position, full release, overall proportion of compressions without error, time to start of CPR and total hands-off chest time. Proportions were analyzed by Wilcoxon's Rank Sum tests and time variables with Welch ANOVA and Wilcoxon's Rank Sum test. All tests used a two-sided alpha-level of 0.05.

RESULTS

One hundred and seventeen subjects were randomized prospectively, 58 to the standard protocol and 59 to the simplified protocol. The average age of subjects in both groups was 25 years old. For both groups, the compression rate was equivalent (104 simplified versus 94 MPDS, p = 0.13), as was the proportion with total release (1.0 simplified versus 1.0 MPDS, p = 0.09). The proportion to the correct depth was greater in the simplified protocol (0.31 versus 0.03, p < 0.01), as was the proportion of compressions done without error (0.05 versus 0.0, p = 0.16). Time to start of chest compressions and total hands-off chest time were better in the simplified protocol (start time 60.9s versus 78.6s, p < 0.0001; hands-off chest time 69 s versus 95 s, p < 0.0001). The proportion with correct hand position, however, was worse in the simplified protocol (0.35 versus 0.84, p < 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

The simplified protocol was as good as, or better than the MPDS v11.2 protocol in every aspect studied except hand position, and the simplified protocol resulted in significant time savings. The protocol may need modification to ensure correct hand position. Time savings and improved quality of CPR achieved by the new set of instructions could be important in strengthening critical links in the cardiac chain of survival.

Dosimetric evaluation of a variable field electron beam applicator

A commercially available variable electron beam applicator designed for the Phillips SL-75/20 linear accelerator was tested for possible clinical use. The basic design of this collimator consists of four movable L-shaped stainless steel blades forming the corners. In addition, four smaller fixed blades of the same material and thickness fill in the sides. Film placed in polystyrene phantoms were exposed in all experiments. Field size, field flatness, beam homogeneity and penumbra measurements, all indicated that the applicator is acceptable for clinical use. However, for use with large field sizes and/or high energy electron beams some minor modifications are suggested.