Development of a new inhaled swellable microsphere system for the dual delivery of naringenin-loaded solid lipid nanoparticles and doxofylline for the treatment of asthma

This study developed a new dual delivery system of naringenin (NRG), a polyphenol, and doxofylline (DOX), a xanthine derivative, as an inhaled microsphere system. In this system, NRG has been first loaded into glyceryl tristearate-based solid lipid nanoparticles (NRG SLN), which were further loaded with DOX into swellable chitosan-tripolyphosphate-based microspheres (NRG SLN DOX sMS). The system was characterized based on particle size, PDI, zeta potential, surface morphology (SEM, AFM, and TEM), solid-state and chemical properties (XRD, IR, and NMR), aerodynamic parameters, drug loading, entrapment efficiency and in vitro drug release study. The optimized NRG SLN DOX sMS exhibited particle size, zeta potential, and PDI of 2.1 µm, 31.2 mV, and 0.310, respectively; a drug entrapment efficiency > 79 %; a drug loading efficiency > 13 %; cumulative drug releases of about 78 % for DOX and 72 % for NRG after 6 and 12 h, respectively; good swelling and desirable aerodynamic properties. In addition, in vivo studies conducted in mice, a murine model of asthma showed significant reductions in serum bicarbonate and eosinophil counts and improvement in respiratory flow rate, tidal volume, and bronchial wall lining compared with the asthmatic control group. Overall, this novel inhalable dual-delivery system may represent a good alternative for the effective treatment of asthma.

Quality by design engineered, enhanced anticancer activity of temozolomide and resveratrol coloaded NLC and brain targeting via lactoferrin conjugation in treatment of glioblastoma

The most dangerous type of high-grade astrocytoma is glioblastoma multiforme. The objective of the work was to engineer lactoferrin conjugated temozolomide and resveratrol co-loaded NLC for the treatment of glioblastoma using intranasal delivery for brain targeting. Synergistic activity of temozolomide and resveratrol was determined using combination index method and 1:1 ratio was selected. QbD approach was used to formulate and optimize NLC, with minimum particle size, maximum transmittance and entrapment efficiency using Central Composite Rotable Design (CCRD) method. The optimized LTR-NLC had desired average particle size (209.3 nm), narrow PDI along, high percentage transmittance (>95%) and better entrapment efficiency (95.26% of TEM and 87.59% of RES). From ex-vivo permeation studies it was found that the permeation at 24 h was 77.43 %, and 88.55 % from LTR-NLC and 25.76 % and 31.10% from suspension for resveratrol and temozolomide respectively. In comparison to drug suspension, NLC had nearly 3-fold increase in drug penetration. IC50 value was also significantly better in the groups treated with LTR-NLC. Hence it can be concluded that LTR-NLC may be an effective formulation for the treatment of glioblastoma, according to the findings of this investigation.

Green synthetic strategies and pharmaceutical applications of thiazine and its derivatives: An updated review

Thiazines are a sizable class of organic heterocycles that are notable for their skeletal versatility and relative chemical simplicity, making them among the most flexible sources of biologically active compounds. The term "green synthesis" refers to implementing energy-efficient procedures for the nature-friendly production of materials and chemicals using green solvents, catalysts, and suitable reaction conditions.Considering the importance of green chemistry and the outstanding therapeutic profile of thiazines, the present work was designed to review the recent advances in green chemistry-based synthetic strategies of thiazine and its derivatives. The green synthetic approaches, including microwave-assisted, ultrasound-assisted, and various other synthetic methods for thiazine and its derivatives, were discussed and generalized. In addition, applications of thiazine and its derivatives in pharmaceutical sciences were explained with examples of marketed drugs.The discussed sustainable synthetic methods for thiazines and their derivatives could be useful in developing other medicinally important lead molecules. They could also aid in developing new synthetic schemes and apparatuses that may simplify chemical manufacturing processes and enable novel reactions with minimal by-products while questing for optimal, green solvents. This review can help anyone interested in this fascinating class of heterocycles to make decisions about selecting targets and tasks for future research.

Solasodine Containing Solanum torvum L. Fruit Extract Prevents Chronic Constriction Injury-Induced Neuropathic Pain in Rats: In Silico and In Vivo Evidence of TRPV1 Receptor and Cytokine Inhibition

This study aimed to assess the efficacy of ethanolic extract of Solanum torvum L. fruit (EESTF) containing solasodine in treating chronic constriction injury (CCI)-induced neuropathic pain in rats. Three-dimensional (3D) simulation studies of solasodine binding were conducted on the TRPV1 receptor, IL-6, and TNF-α structures. For in vivo justification, an assessment of behavioral, biochemical, and histological changes was designed after a CCI-induced neuropathic pain model in rats. On days 7, 14, and 21, CCI significantly increased mechanical, thermal, and cold allodynia while producing a functional deficit. IL-6, TNF-α, TBARS, and MPO levels also increased. SOD levels of catalase and reduced glutathione levels also decreased. Administration of pregabalin (30 mg/kg, oral), solasodine (25 mg/kg, oral), and EESTF (100 and 300 mg/kg, oral) significantly reduced CCI-induced behavioral and biochemical changes (P < 0.05). The protective nature of EESTF was also confirmed by histological analysis. Capsaicin, a TRPV1 receptor agonist, abolished the antinociceptive effects of EESTF when used previously. From the observations of the docking studies, solasodine acted as an antagonist at TRPV1, whereas the docking scores of solasodine against TNF-α and IL-6 were reported to be -11.2 and -6.04 kcal/mol, respectively. The attenuating effect of EESTF might be related to its antagonistic effects on TRPV1, suppression of cytokines, and anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

Polymeric micelles loaded in situ gel with prednisolone acetate for ocular inflammation: development and evaluation

Aim: Our study developed a prednisolone acetate polymeric micelles (PM) system for ocular inflammation related to allergic uveitis. Methods: For PM development, a thin-film hydration procedure was used. Irritation, in vitro, ex vivo transcorneal permeation, micelle size, entrapment efficiency and histology within the eye were all calculated for PM. Results: The optimized in situ gel (A4) showed superior ex vivo transcorneal permeation with zero-order kinetics. Conclusion: The developed formulation could be a promising candidate for treating anterior uveitis via topical application to the anterior segment of the eye.

Troubleshooting the Poor Flow Problem of Valsartan Drug Powder Using the Crystallo-Co-Agglomeration Technique

Pharmaceutical tablets are a popular solid dosage form and have a significant ratio in the available solid dosage forms. They are a popular choice for patients due to the ease of administration as well as for pharmaceutical manufacturers due to the low cost of manufacturing, packaging, and other pharmaceutical parameters. However, the drug powder should either be crystalline or turned into a granular form using wet-dry granulation techniques to improve the flow and compressibility. The valsartan drug, which is commonly used as an antihypertensive drug, is an amorphous drug and has an angle of repose of more than 40º. Therefore, it needs to be converted into a granular form. This work uses the spherical crystals of the valsartan drug because they flow well and can be used for pharmaceutical tablets. Different process parameters, such as mixing speed, mixing time, and temperature, were optimized to obtain effective process parameters. The final batch of spherical crystals of valsartan had an angle of repose of 27.23º, which shows that prepared spherical crystals flow well.

Recent Advances in Research and Management of Human Monkeypox Virus: An Emerging Global Health Threat

In 2003, the United States saw an epidemic of monkeypox that was later traced back to rodents of West Africa infected with the monkeypox virus (MPXV). Disease in the United States seemed less severe than the smallpox-like disease in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). In this study, researchers analyzed data from Central Africa: two distinct MPXV clades were confirmed by sequencing the genomes of MPXV isolates from Western Africa, the United States, and Central Africa. By comparing open reading frames across MPXV clades, scientists can infer which virus proteins might account for the observed variation in pathogenicity in humans. Monkeypox can be prevented and controlled with a better understanding of MPXV's molecular etiology and epidemiological and clinical features. In light of the current outbreaks worldwide, we provide updated information on monkeypox for medical professionals in this review.

Anticancer Phytochemical-Based Nanoformulations: Therapeutic Intervention in Cancer Cell Lines

Phytochemicals have the potential to treat resistant cancer. They are delivered to the target site via nano-based carriers. Promising results are seen in preclinical and in vitro models, as phytochemical-based nanoformulations have improved cell cytotoxicity compared to single agents. They can synergistically inhibit cancer cell growth through p53 apoptosis in MCF-7 breast cancer cell lines. Moreover, synergic viability in reproducible glioma models at half inhibitory concentrations has been shown. Through caspase activation, phytochemical-based nanoformulations also increase cell death in 4T1 breast cancer cell lines. They have shown improved cytotoxicity at half inhibitory concentrations compared to single-agent drugs in cervical cancer. In terms of colorectal cancer, they have the potential to arrest cells in the S phase of the cell cycle and synergistically inhibit cell proliferation. In squamous cell carcinoma of the tongue, they inhibit protein kinase B (Akt)/mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathways. This review reports on developments in the therapeutic management of various cancers using phytochemical-based nanoformulations, which have shown potential benefits in the clinical management of cancer patients, halting/slowing the progression of the disease and ameliorating chemotherapy-induced toxicities.

Moringa oleifera: An Updated Comprehensive Review of Its Pharmacological Activities, Ethnomedicinal, Phytopharmaceutical Formulation, Clinical, Phytochemical, and Toxicological Aspects

Moringa oleifera, also known as the "tree of life" or "miracle tree," is classified as an important herbal plant due to its immense medicinal and non-medicinal benefits. Traditionally, the plant is used to cure wounds, pain, ulcers, liver disease, heart disease, cancer, and inflammation. This review aims to compile an analysis of worldwide research, pharmacological activities, phytochemical, toxicological, and ethnomedicinal updates of Moringa oleifera and also provide insight into its commercial and phytopharmaceutical applications with a motive to help further research. The scientific information on this plant was obtained from various sites and search engines such as Scopus, Pub Med, Science Direct, BMC, Google Scholar, and other scientific databases. Articles available in the English language have only been referred for review. The pharmacological studies confirm the hepatoprotective, cardioprotective, and anti-inflammatory potential of the extracts from the various plant parts. It was found that bioactive constituents are present in every part of the plant. So far, more than one hundred compounds from different parts of Moringa oleifera have been characterized, including alkaloids, flavonoids, anthraquinones, vitamins, glycosides, and terpenes. In addition, novel isolates such as muramoside A&B and niazimin A&B have been identified in the plant and have potent antioxidant, anticancer, antihypertensive, hepatoprotective, and nutritional effects. The traditional and nontraditional use of Moringa, its pharmacological effects and their phytopharmaceutical formulations, clinical studies, toxicity profile, and various other uses are recognized in the present review. However, several traditional uses have yet to be scientifically explored. Therefore, further studies are proposed to explore the mechanistic approach of the plant to identify and isolate active or synergistic compounds behind its therapeutic potential.

Recent Developments in the Study of the Microenvironment of Cancer and Drug Delivery

Cancer is characterized by disrupted molecular variables caused by cells that deviate from regular signal transduction. The uncontrolled segment of such cancerous cells annihilates most of the tissues that contact them. Gene therapy, immunotherapy, and nanotechnology advancements have resulted in novel strategies for anticancer drug delivery. Furthermore, diverse dispersion of nanoparticles in normal stroma cells adversely affects the healthy cells and disrupts the crosstalk of tumour stroma. It can contribute to cancer cell progression inhibition and, conversely, to acquired resistance, enabling cancer cell metastasis and proliferation. The tumour's microenvironment is critical in controlling the dispersion and physiological activities of nano-chemotherapeutics which is one of the targeted drug therapy. As it is one of the methods of treating cancer that involves the use of medications or other substances to specifically target and kill off certain subsets of malignant cells. A targeted therapy may be administered alone or in addition to more conventional methods of care like surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation treatment. The tumour microenvironment, stromatogenesis, barriers and advancement in the drug delivery system across tumour tissue are summarised in this review.

Promises of Molecular Pharmaceutics in the Development of Novel Drug Delivery Formulations

Abstract:

Molecular pharmaceutics play a critical role in the drug delivery system, representing the direct interconnection of drug bioavailability with its molecular form. There is a diversity in the molecular structures by which it affects its properties, such as amorphous form, crystalline form, partialamorphous molecular dispersion, and disordered state. The active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) and the excipients utilized in the formulation process contain various divergent modes used in the formulation process. They include better formulations of any type to obtain good quality pharmaceutical products. This review reveals how the molecular states affect the API and are important in maintaining the quality of dosage forms. Furthermore, the physio-chemical properties of the components and various pharmaceutical approaches employed in the formulation of dosage forms are studied from the point of view of molecular pharmaceutics

Mapping Research on miRNAs in Cancer: A Global DataAnalysis and Bibliometric Profiling Analysis

miRNAs biomarkers are emerging as an essential part of clinical oncology. Their oncogenic and tumour suppressor properties playing a role in malignancy has generated interest in their potential for use in disease prognosis. While several studies on miRNA have been carried out across the globe, evaluating the clinical implications of miRNAs in cancer diagnosis and prognosis research has currently not been attempted. A study delineating the area of miRNA research, including the topics presently being focused on, the seminal papers in this field, and the direction of research interest, does not exist. This study aims to conduct a large-scale, global data analysis and bibliometric profiling analysis of studies to evaluate the research output of clinical implications of miRNAs in cancer diagnosis and prognosis listed in the SCOPUS database. A systematic search strategy was followed to identify and extract all relevant studies, subsequently analysed to generate a bibliometric map. SPSS software (version 27) was used to calculate bibliometric indicators or parameters for analysis, such as year and country of affiliation with leading authors, journals, and institutions. It is also used to analyse annual research outputs, including total citations and the number of times it has been cited with productive nations and H-index. The number of global research articles retrieved for miRNA-Cancer research over the study period 2003 to 2019 was 18,636. Between 2012 and 2019, the growth rate of global publications is six times (n = 15,959; 90.71 percent articles) that of 2003 to 2011. (2704; 9.29 per cent articles). China published the most publications in the field of miRNA in cancer (n = 7782; 41%), while the United States had the most citations (n = 327,538; 48%) during the time span. Of these journals, Oncotarget has the highest percentage of article publications. The journal Cancer Research had the most citations (n = 41,876), with 6.20 per cent (n = 41,876). This study revealed a wide variety of journals in which miRNA-Cancer research are published; these bibliometric parameters exhibit crucial clinical information on performance assessment of research productivity and quality of research output. Therefore, this study provides a helpful reference for clinical oncologists, cancer scientists, policy decision-makers and clinical data researchers.

Best practices for effective implementation of online teaching and learning in medical and health professions education: during COVID-19 and beyond

<abstract> <p>The COVID-19 pandemic has caused worldwide disruption to the entire educational system, including medical and health professions education. Considering the critical situation due to COVID-19, academic institutions shifted the entire pedagogical approach to the virtual learning mode. While delivering online teaching, educators experienced numerous challenges, including access to the internet, poor connectivity, and other technical issues. Some students did not have laptops and necessary devices to attend the Class. Besides, many educators were not confident enough to manage the online mode of delivery. In this perspective, we reviewed the evidence of best practices for the medical and health professions educators to deliver the curriculum through an online platform. Therefore, the current study aimed to review the best practices for effective online teaching and learning in medical and health professions education during COVID-19 and beyond. We reviewed the technical aspects of online teaching and educational strategies required for educators to provide quality training not just during the pandemic but beyond this crisis. The online literature search was performed on Medline, PubMed and google scholar databases for studies on online teaching in medical and health profession education and what are the best practices of teaching globally Online teaching and assessment must balance the requirements of technology, learning outcomes, delivery modes, learning resources, and learning resources. The study concludes that medical and health professions institutions strengthen technical infrastructure, promote continuous faculty development programs, and support indigent students to access digital technology.</p> </abstract>

COVID-19 pandemic containment in the Caribbean Region: A review of case-management and public health strategies

COVID-19 emerged initially from Wuhan, Hubei province, China, in late December 2019, and since then, it has spread globally to be declared a pandemic by the World Health Organization. The Caribbean region started reporting COVID-19 cases in early March 2020, triggering new regional public health crises. The initial suspects and confirmed cases across the Caribbean countries were mainly imported cases and from cruise ships. The clinical manifestations varied from fever, cough, and malaise in mild cases to acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) and shock in severe cases. The Caribbean Public Health Agency has provided frequent updates on the preventive strategies and quarantine measures across the Caribbean member states. COVID-19 has had a serious impact on the Caribbean region's health system, economy, and psychology. This review presents the Caribbean perspective of COVID-19, detailing the epidemiology, clinical manifestations, diagnosis, management, and preventive and surveillance measures. Vaccine hesitancy was found to be a major challenge that needs appropriate health education strategies to address the public. Strong leadership and regional collaboration among the Caribbean member states are necessary to provide optimal real-time data to the public and implement appropriate and effective guidelines in the island states.

Determination of in vivo virtue of dermal targeted combinatorial lipid nanocolloidal based formulation of 5-fluorouracil and resveratrol against skin cancer

The current study has been designed to appraise the efficacy of developed combinatorial lipid-nanosystem-based gel (linogel) of 5-fluorouracil and resveratrol for skin cancer treatment. Initially, linogel was prepared and characterized for different parameters, namely pH, texture, drug content uniformity, occlusiveness, etc. Then in vivo efficacy studies (tumor number, area, and volume, histopathology, ultrastructural and immunohistochemical analysis) of linogel were determined over-developed skin tumors. Developed linogel possessed significantly (p < 0.05) better texture and occlusiveness than conventional gel formulation. Decreased tumor number, area, and volume showed significant results (p < 0.05) in favor of linogel. Histopathological and ultrastructural analysis confirmed superior efficacy of linogel in terms of marked improvement in the nucleus and subcellular structures in photomicrographs. The antioxidants and anti-inflammatory analysis findings showed a significantly (p < 0.05) potent effectiveness of linogel. The apoptotic and anti-proliferation activity of linogel was confirmed by analysis of caspase-3 and ki-67, which showed significant (p < 0.05) elevation in the level of cleaved caspase-3 and reduction in the level of ki-67 than untreated and conventional gel formulation treated tumors, indicating antitumor effect due to cancerous cell death. Thus, developed linogel fulfilled all the criteria of dermal application and exhibited efficacious therapeutic results, which could be a beneficial therapeutic approach against skin cancer.

A Clinical Update on the Prognostic Effect of microRNA Biomarkers for Survival Outcome in Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Simple Summary

Current estimates by GLOBOCAN now incorporate NPC as a malignancy discrete from other head and neck malignancies among the 36 disease locales assessed. Based on the latest report, the global cancer burden is estimated to have risen to 19.3 million new cases, and 9.6 million malignancies were recorded in 2020 throughout the world. The study has clinical implications and could improve treatment decision-making and post-treatment care. The study could also motivate future clinical research and development in the arena of NPC prognostic biomarkers.ve men and one in every six women develops cancer during their lifetime, and one out of eight men and one in every 11 women progresses to chronic stage. The study has clinical implications and could improve treatment decision-making and post-treatment care. The study could also motivate future clinical research and development in the arena of NPC prognostic biomarkers.

Abstract

Background: Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC), a relatively uncommon malignancy in the Western world, is highly prevalent in Southeast Asia where the treatment outcomes are poor. Despite recent improvements in diagnosis and treatment locoregional control, distant metastasis and chemoresistance continue to be a significant cause of mortality. Identification of a reliable and comprehensive prognostic biomarker is highly desirable. The potential relevance of microRNAs (miRNAs) as prognostic markers in NPC is assessed in this systematic review and meta-analysis. Methods: A systematic review was performed using the PubMed and Science Direct databases. The search was limited to search results between 2018 and 2020 with the keywords and search strings developed as per the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-analysis (PRISMA) guidelines. The recovered articles were carefully screened based on the selection criteria. In the meta-analysis study, high and low expression levels of miRNAs were measured using the hazard ratio (HR) and 95 percent confidence interval (CI) for patients’ survival outcomes. Egger’s bias indicator test and funnel plot symmetry were used to assess the risk of bias. Results: Amongst the 25 studies, 13 fulfilled the conditions of inclusion in this meta-analysis. The researchers further delved into the 21 miRNA expression levels from 3015 NPC patients to ascertain a link between miRNA’s predictive role and survival outcomes. The majority of the articles retrieved during this study were from China, with two studies from Canada and Malaysia. The overall pooled effect size estimation (HR) for dysregulated miRNAs was 1.590 (95% CI: 1.253–2.017), displaying that miRNA marker expression increased the risk of mortality in NPC patients by 59%. Conclusions: This meta-analysis is novel and looks at the prognostic significance of miRNAs as biomarkers in NPC patients using a continuous version pooled meta-analysis. Although our findings are ambiguous, they do show that greater miRNA expression in NPC may be associated with a lower overall survival rate. To acquire clear conclusions, more prospective studies with large cohorts are required to determine the clinical utility of miRNAs as prognostic biomarkers.

Punicalagin and ellagic acid containing Punica granatum L. fruit rind extract prevents vincristine-induced neuropathic pain in rats: an in silico and in vivo evidence of GABAergic action and cytokine inhibition

Objectives: We aimed to investigate the protective potential of Punica granatum L. fruit rind extract (PFE) containing punicalagin (10.3% W/W), ellagic acid (EA) (2.7%W/W) in vincristine (75 µg/kg i.p.)- induced neuropathic pain in Wistar rats.Methods: Docking simulation studies were done on the three-dimensional (3D) structure of the GABA_A and PPAR γ receptor for the binding of EA as well as punicalagin docking studies on TNF-α, and IL-6. The Present Study conceptualized a test battery to evaluate the behavioral, biochemical and histological changes.Results: Vincristine -induced significant cold allodynia, mechanical hyperalgesia, and functional deficit on 12th and 21st days. It also increased in the levels of TNF-α (Tumor necrosis factor-α), IL-6 (Interleukin-6), and MPO (Myeloperoxidase). Administration of PFE (100 and 300 mg/kg, p.o.), EA (50 mg/kg), and gabapentin (100 mg/kg) attenuated Vincristine-induced behavioral and biochemical changes significantly (P < .05). PFE showed better antinociceptive activity to EA. The histopathological evaluation also revealed the protective effects of PFE. Pretreatment of bicuculline (selective antagonist of GABAA receptors) reversed antinociceptive action of PFE, but administration of γ aminobutyric acid potentiated the action of PFE. PPAR-γ antagonist BADGE did not modify the effect of PFE. Docking results revealed that EA properly positioned into GABA and PPARγ binding site and acts as a partial agonist. Docking score of Punicalagin found to be - 9.02 kcal/mol and - 8.32 kcal/mol on IL-6 and TNFα respectively.Discussion: Conclusively, the attenuating effect of PFE may be attributed to the GABAergic system, cytokine inhibition, and anti-inflammatory activities.

Promises of Lipid-based Drug Delivery Systems in the Management of Breast Cancer

Breast cancer is one of the leading types among the common non-cutaneous malignancies in women. All the curative methods available for its treatment are minimal due to their toxicity issues and dose-related side effects. Various evolving nanotechnology techniques displayed the opportunity to target breast cancer. One such delivery system is lipid-based drug delivery systems (LDDS). This concept is constrained only for the laboratory scale should be shifted to the industrial level targeting the nanomedicine with clinical benefits. This work tried to portray the advancements in the LDDS along with the lipid-based excipients, advantages, disadvantages and applications. It even helped in highlighting the recently developed lipid-based nanocarriers for breast cancer management.

Role of Information Technology in COVID-19 Vaccination Drive: An Analysis of the COVID-19 Global Beliefs, Behaviors, and Norms Survey

With the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, information technology has played a critical role in healthcare. A broad spectrum of information technology tools and applications played an essential role to create awareness of the COVID-19 vaccination drive and its health benefits. Research conducted by Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) in collaboration with information technology platforms like Facebook with inputs from World Health Organization (WHO), John Hopkins University (JHU), and Global Outbreak Alert and Response Network (GOARN) shows that 65.06% of people all over the globe are willing to get vaccinated. Vaccine acceptance depends upon social norms and human behavior. These organizations conducted the global survey in over 60 countries with a sample size of 437,236 responses. The international survey was organized using a pre-registered randomized experiment demonstrating the role of technology in reaching out to people based in diverse communities and evaluating their beliefs, behavior, and social norms. The study shows that vaccine acceptance can vary due to descriptive norms. All the respondents in the study were adults with access to the internet. Moreover, a large proportion of the population thinks that the COVID-19 pandemic is a viable threat to the community and preventive measures need to be taken including vaccination drives to eradicate the menace. The survey consisted of five blocks involving questions related to healthcare, demographics, vaccines, knowledge, and information exposure. Sampling and weighting were done using a pool of 3,000 respondents over two weeks, and weights were provided per respondent to represent the target population as a whole. It reduces the representation error and minimizes non-response biases.

Impact of Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) pandemic on classroom teaching: Challenges of online classes and solutions

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is an infectious disease caused by a newly discovered coronavirus and the WHO declared it a pandemic, and due to the high risk, the most government throughout the world have temporarily closed schools, colleges, and universities. The impact of this COVID-19 has been hit the education system worldwide, and according to the UNESCO, as of March 23, 2020, around some 1.3 billion learners worldwide were not able to attend educational institutions so to continue the education, most of the universities are providing teaching through online mode, but there are challenges of technological issue, time management, and adaptability.

Genetic improvement of pyrethrum (Tanacetum cinerariifolium Sch. Bip.) through gamma radiation and selection of high yield stable mutants through seven post-radiation generations

PURPOSE

To increase the size of the flowers for easy plucking, flower yield, pyrethrins content (%), and elite mutant selection in pyrethrum.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

To increase pyrethrum production and acclimatize in north Indian plain condition, a genetic improvement program was undertaken to widen the range of variations for size and yield of flowers and pyrethrins content (%) in pyrethrum crop. Pyrethrum seeds of the variety Avadh were irradiated with gamma rays at 20 to 300 Gy doses in Gamma chamber 5000 (cobalt-60 research irradiator).

RESULTS

Observations gathered visually in M₁ based on vigor, synchronization of flowering, and flower's size. Out of 90 M₂ families, 20 mutants were raised in M₃ along with the check-in preliminary evaluation trial. The four promising mutants, 1 (20 Gy-3), 7 (40 Gy-5), 10 (40 Gy-8), 14 (60 Gy19-10) was grown for four years in a bench-scale trial (randomized block design, replicated thrice) to test the yield performance and selection of high yielding elite mutant (s). It has been found that pyrethrum is sensitive to gamma rays irradiation and produced a high range of qualitative and quantitative variations. After massive screening over four years, two promising mutants for high dry flower yield and pyrethrins content, namely 7 (40 Gy-5), and 10 (40GY-8) were isolated.

CONCLUSIONS

The mutagenesis changed traits mean in positive or negative directions. Pyrethrum plant is highly sensitive to gamma irradiation and produced a high range of variability in the qualitative and quantitative traits. The mutagenesis changed the mean of traits in both positive and negative directions. Due to mutagenic efficacy, two mutants 7 (40 Gy-5), and 10 (40GY-8) were expressed high performance for pyrethrin percent i.e., 87.23 and 59.78% improvement over the check variety 'Avadh', with synchronous flowering. These two mutants are in the pipeline for release as a variety for cultivation in the North Indian plains.

Strategic Role and Challenges of Community Pharmacists in SARS-CoV-2 Outbreak

This study highlights the importance of community pharmacists' strategic role in hindering the progression of the SARS-CoV-2 virus in the community setting and innovative measures to protect themselves. This article focuses on the features, control, and prevention of COVID-19 and social awareness measures of the pandemic. The means employed by the community pharmacist to safeguard his health while providing pharmaceutical services during COVID-19 is compiled and presented to benefit health-care professionals around the world. As per the US Center for Disease Control and Prevention, community pharmacists play a crucial role in providing essential drugs to patients without knowing their current COVID-19 status. They also work in conditions that make them susceptible to COVID-19 exposure. Despite the availability of guidelines, community pharmacists need to be trained in personal protective equipment for efficient protection and prevention of spread. Community pharmacists are essential frontline warriors against transmission of the SARS-CoV-2 virus in the community and act as frontline workers to educate the public on COVID-19. They are at high risk and need to observe necessary precautions to mitigate the spread of the virus.

Comparative Quality Control Study of Different Brands of Diclofenac Sodium Tablet Available in Local and Government Pharmacies by In-Vitro Testing

The objective of this study is to conduct in-vitro quality control testing of diclofenac sodium tablets involves weight variation test, drug assay, friability test, and the disintegration and dissolution test. Two brands of diclofenac sodium tablets were used in the study, named Brand A and Brand B. Quality control (QC) test results for diclofenac sodium tablets show that both Brand A and Brand B conform to the United States Pharmacopeia (USP) standards. In terms of weight variation, Brand A and B have an above the mean weight limit variation of 2.79% and 2.05%, respectively. The lower mean weight limit variations are 1.21% and 1.27%, respectively, which are within the 10% standard limits of USP. Friability tests show that Brands A and B have an average friability of 0.062% and 0.01% mass loss, which are within the 1% mass loss limits of USP. In terms of drug assay, both Brands A and B fall under the USP parameter of 85%-115%, respectively. The disintegration test shows that Brand A and Brand B fall within a 15-minute time interval segment with disintegration time calculated as 6.69 min and 7.02 min for Brands A and B, respectively. Brand B of Diclofenac Sodium has a drug dissolution percentage of 90.7% within a 45-min sampling time interval.

Brands A and B pass the pharmacopeia limits set under the USP standards. The friability test shows that the loss of mass for both Brands A and B was within the 1% standard limit. Similarly, with regard to weight variation, both brands conform under the normal limit of 10% above or lower the mean weight. In terms of drug assay, both brands' drug availability was within the specified 85%-115% standard range. They passed the disintegration and dissolution test within a time limit of less than 15 minutes and 45 minutes, respectively.

Targeted Delivery of Natural Bioactives and Lipid-nanocargos against Signaling Pathways Involved in Skin Cancer

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At present, skin cancer is a widespread malignancy in human beings. Among diverse population types, Caucasian populations are much more prone in comparison to darker skin populations due to the comparative lack of skin pigmentation. Skin cancer is divided into malignant and non-melanoma skin cancer, which is additionally categorized as basal and squamous cell carcinoma. The exposure to ultraviolet radiation, chemical carcinogen (polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, arsenic, tar, etc.), and viruses (herpes virus, human papillomavirus, and human T-cell leukemia virus type-1) are major contributing factors of skin cancer. There are distinct pathways available through which skin cancer develops, such as the JAKSTAT pathway, Akt pathway, MAPKs signaling pathway, Wnt signaling pathway, to name a few. Currently, several targeted treatments are available, such as monoclonal antibodies, which have dramatically changed the line of treatment of this disease but possess major therapeutic limitations. Thus, recently many phytochemicals have been evaluated either alone or in combination with the existing synthetic drugs to overcome their limitations and have found to play a promising role in the prevention and treatment. In this review, complete tracery of skin cancer, starting from the signaling pathways involved, newer developed drugs with their targets and limitations along with the emerging role of natural products alone or in combination as potent anticancer agents and their molecular mechanism involved has been discussed. Apart from this, various nanocargos have also been mentioned here, which can play a significant role in the management and treatment of different types of skin cancer.

A pervasive scientific overview on mangiferin in the prevention and treatment of various diseases with preclinical and clinical updates

Natural products are increasing used in preventing and treating various diseases. Mangiferin belongs to the xanthone family, and has potential antiangiogenic, anticancer, immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory activity along with the antioxidant activity. It is also used in the treatment of cardiac problem, diabetes and neurodegenerative disease. Finding of various researchers proves that mangiferin has a broad spectrum therapeutic application. Motive of this review is to describe the various studies performed on mangiferin for its different pharmacological activities. It also discusses various challenges associated with mangiferin such as stability and bioavailability. Strategies and approaches to improve bioavailability of mangiferin have also been discussed. Both research and review articles were used to write the manuscript. They were collected from various search engines like Pub Med, Science Direct and Google Scholar, using keywords like mangiferin, polyphenol, bioavailability enhancement, solubility enhancement, and antioxidant. Mangiferin being a potent antioxidant is effective in the treatment of various diseases. With novel drug delivery approaches we can overcome poor solubility and bioavailability problem which eventually can result to better utilisation of mangiferin in treating a variety of diseases and make mangiferin a revolutionary drug.

RNAi of Sterol Methyl Transferase1 Reveals its Direct Role in Diverting Intermediates Towards Withanolide/Phytosterol Biosynthesis in Withania somnifera

The medicinal properties of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) are accredited to a group of compounds called withanolides. 24-Methylene cholesterol is the intermediate for sterol biosynthesis and a proposed precursor of withanolide biogenesis. However, conversion of 24-methylene cholesterol to withaferin A and other withanolides has not yet been biochemically dissected. Hence, in an effort to fill this gap, an important gene, encoding S-adenosyl l-methionine-dependent sterol-C24-methyltransferase type 1 (SMT1), involved in the first committed step of sterol biosynthesis, from W. somnifera was targeted in the present study. Though SMT1 has been characterized in model plants such as Nicotiana tabacum and Arabidopsis thaliana, its functional role in phytosterol and withanolide biosynthesis was demonstrated for the first time in W. somnifera. Since SMT1 acts at many steps preceding the withanolide precursor, the impact of this gene in channeling of metabolites for withanolide biosynthesis and its regulatory nature was illustrated by suppressing the gene in W. somnifera via the RNA interference (RNAi) approach. Interestingly, down-regulation of SMT1 in W. somnifera led to reduced levels of campesterol, sitosterol and stigmasterol, with an increase of cholesterol content in the transgenic RNAi lines. In contrast, SMT1 overexpression in transgenic N. tabacum enhanced the level of all phytosterols except cholesterol, which was not affected. The results established that SMT1 plays a crucial role in W. somnifera withanolide biosynthesis predominantly through the campesterol and stigmasterol routes.

Endophytes of Withania somnifera modulate in planta content and the site of withanolide biosynthesis

Tissue specific biosynthesis of secondary metabolites is a distinguished feature of medicinal plants. Withania somnifera, source of pharmaceutically important withanolides biosynthesizes withaferin-A in leaves and withanolide-A in roots. To increase the in planta withanolides production, a sustainable approach needs to be explored. Here, we isolated endophytes from different parts of W. somnifera plants and their promising role in in planta withanolide biosynthesis was established in both in-vivo grown as well in in-vitro raised composite W. somnifera plants. Overall, the fungal endophytes improved photosynthesis, plant growth and biomass, and the root-associated bacterial endophytes enhanced the withanolide content in both in-vivo and in-vitro grown plants by modulating the expression of withanolide biosynthesis genes in leaves and roots. Surprisingly, a few indole-3-acetic acid (IAA)-producing and nitrogen-fixing root-associated endophytes could induce the biosynthesis of withaferin-A in roots by inducing in planta IAA-production and upregulating the expression of withanolide biosynthesis genes especially MEP-pathway genes (DXS and DXR) in roots as well. Results indicate the role of endophytes in modulating the synthesis and site of withanolides production and the selected endophytes can be used for enhancing the in planta withanolide production and enriching roots with pharmaceutically important withaferin-A which is generally absent in roots.

Takotsubo syndrome

Takotsubo syndrome is a reversible acute heart failure frequently precipitated by an emotional or physical stress. The clinical presentation resembles acute coronary syndrome. Pathogenesis is complex and may involve brain-heart axis and neuro-hormonal stunning of the myocardium. Coronary angiography reveals normal epicardial arteries with no obstruction or spasm. NT-ProBNP maybe remarkably elevated. Regional wall motion akinesia (RWMA) of left ventricle extends beyond the territory of one coronary artery. Reduced left ventricle ejection fraction (LVEF) and RWMA recover in 6-12 weeks. Prognosis is generally good. Recent meta-analysis shows in-hospital mortality of 1-4.5% and recurrence rate of 5-10% during five year follow-up.

5-Desmethylnobiletin augments synaptic ACh levels and nicotinic ACh receptor activity: A potential candidate for alleviation of cholinergic dysfunction

Cholinergic function is compromised in plethora of neurodegenerative disorders especially Alzheimer's disease. Increasing acetylcholine (ACh) levels has been the mainstay in majority of the therapeutic regimens, accepted for management of disease. The present study investigates the efficacy of 5-Desmethylnobiletin (DN), a polymethoxyflavone in augmenting cholinergic function using Caenorhabditis elegans as a model organism. The studies revealed significant elevation in cholinergic transmission mediated through increased levels of ACh and activity of nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChR). Further investigation into the mechanistic aspects indicated that DN enhanced cholinergic function through down modulation of acetylcholinesterase activity at enzyme and transcript level along with upregulation of non alpha subunit, unc-29 which could be linked with enhanced nAChR activity as evident from levamisole assay. Additionally, studies on antioxidant properties, implicated significant potential of DN in curtailing ROS, both in vivo and in vitro. Our studies present DN as a phytomolecule with novel biological activities which could be exploited and researched upon for therapeutic avenues in terms of cholinergic function and antioxidant potential.

Spherical crystallization: A technique use to reform solubility and flow property of active pharmaceutical ingredients

Tablets have been choice of manufacturers over the years due to their comparatively low cost of manufacturing, packaging, shipping, and ease of administration; also have better stability and can be considered virtually tamper proof. A major challenge in formulation development of the tablets extends from lower solubility of the active agent to the elaborated manufacturing procedures for obtaining a compressible granular material. Moreover, the validation and documentation increases, as the numbers of steps increases for an industrially acceptable granulation process. Spherical crystallization (SC) is a promising technique, which encompass the crystallization, agglomeration, and spheronization phenomenon in a single step. Initially, two methods, spherical agglomeration, and emulsion solvent diffusion, were suggested to get a desired result. Later on, the introduction of modified methods such as crystallo-co-agglomeration, ammonia diffusion system, and neutralization techniques overcame the limitations of the older techniques. Under controlled conditions such as solvent composition, mixing rate and temperature, spherical dense agglomerates cluster from particles. Application of the SC technique includes production of compacted spherical particles of drug having improved uniformity in shape and size of particles, good bulk density, better flow properties as well as better solubility so SC when used on commercial scale will bring down the production costs of pharmaceutical tablet and will increase revenue for the pharmaceutical industries in the competitive market. This review summarizes the technologies available for SC and also suggests the parameters for evaluation of a viable product.

Nitrogen treatment enhances sterols and withaferin A through transcriptional activation of jasmonate pathway, WRKY transcription factors, and biosynthesis genes in Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal

The medicinal plant Withania somnifera is researched extensively to increase the quantity of withanolides and specifically withaferin A, which finds implications in many pharmacological activities. Due to insufficient knowledge on biosynthesis and unacceptability of transgenic approach, it is preferred to follow alternative physiological methods to increase the yield of withanolides. Prior use of elicitors like salicylic acid, methyl jasmonate, fungal extracts, and even mechanical wounding have shown to increase the withanolide biosynthesis with limited success; however, the commercial viability and logistics of application are debatable. In this investigation, we tested the simple nitrogeneous fertilizers pertaining to the enhancement of withaferin A biosynthesis. Application of ammonium sulfate improved the sterol contents required for the withanolide biosynthesis and correlated to higher expression of pathway genes like FPPS, SMT1, SMT2, SMO1, SMO2, and ODM. Increased expression of a gene homologous to allene oxide cyclase, crucial in jasmonic acid biosynthetic pathway, suggested the involvement of jasmonate signaling. High levels of WRKY gene transcripts indicated transcriptional regulation of the pathway genes. Increase in transcript level could be correlated with a corresponding increase in the protein levels for WsSMT1 and WsWRKY1. The withaferin A increase was also demonstrated in the potted plants growing in the glasshouse and in the open field. These results implicated simple physiological management of nitrogen fertilizer signal to improve the yield of secondary metabolite through probable involvement of jasmonate signal and WRKY transcription factor for the first time, in W. somnifera besides improving the foliage.

Cumulative role of bioinoculants on growth, antioxidant potential and artemisinin content in Artemisia annua L. under organic field conditions

Artemisia annua L. is mostly known for a bioactive metabolite, artemisinin, an effective sesquiterpene lactone used against malaria without any reputed cases of resistance. In this experiment, bioinoculants viz., Streptomyces sp. MTN14, Bacillus megaterium MTN2RP and Trichoderma harzianum Thu were applied as growth promoting substances to exploit full genetic potential of crops in terms of growth, yield, nutrient uptake and particularly artemisinin content. Further, multi-use of the bioinoculants singly and in combinations for the enhancement of antioxidant potential and therapeutic value was also undertaken which to our knowledge has never been investigated in context with microbial application. The results demonstrated that a significant (P < 0.05) increase in growth, nutrient uptake, total phenolic, flavonoid, free radical scavenging activity, ferric reducing antioxidant power, reducing power and total antioxidant capacity were observed in the A. annua treated with a combination of bioinoculants in comparison to control. Most importantly, an increase in artemisinin content and yield by 34 and 72 % respectively in the treatment having all the three microbes was observed. These results were further authenticated by the PCA analysis which showed positive correlation between plant macronutrients and antioxidant content with plant growth and artemisinin yield of A. annua. The present study thus highlights a possible new application of compatible bioinoculants for enhancing the growth along with antioxidant and therapeutic value of A. annua.

No reflow phenomenon in percutaneous coronary interventions in ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction

Percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) is effective in opening the infarct related artery and restoring thrombolysis in myocardial infarction flow 3 (TIMI-flow 3) in large majority of ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). However there remain a small but significant proportion of patients, who continue to manifest diminished myocardial reperfusion despite successful opening of the obstructed epicardial artery. This phenomenon is called no-reflow. Clinically it manifests with recurrence of chest pain and dyspnea and may progress to cardiogenic shock, cardiac arrest, serious arrhythmias and acute heart failure. No reflow is regarded as independent predictor of death or recurrent myocardial infarction. No reflow is a multi-factorial phenomenon. However micro embolization of atherothrombotic debris during PCI remains the principal mechanism responsible for microvascular obstruction. This review summarizes the pathogenesis, diagnostic methods and the results of various recent randomized trials and studies on the prevention and management of no-reflow.

RNAi down-regulation of cinnamate-4-hydroxylase increases artemisinin biosynthesis in Artemisia annua

Cinnamate-4-hydroxylase (C4H) converts trans-cinnamic acid (CA) to p-coumaric acid (COA) in the phenylpropanoid/lignin biosynthesis pathway. Earlier we reported increased expression of AaCYP71AV1 (an important gene of artemisinin biosynthesis pathway) caused by CA treatment in Artemisia annua. Hence, AaC4H gene was identified, cloned, characterized and silenced in A. annua with the assumption that the elevated internal CA due to knock down may increase the artemisinin yield. Accumulation of trans-cinnamic acid in the plant due to AaC4H knockdown was accompanied with the reduction of p-coumaric acid, total phenolics, anthocyanin, cinnamate-4-hydroxylase (C4H) and phenylalanine ammonia lyase (PAL) activities but increase in salicylic acid (SA) and artemisinin. Interestingly, feeding trans-cinnamic acid to the RNAi line increased the level of artemisinin along with benzoic (BA) and SA with no effect on the downstream metabolites p-coumaric acid, coniferylaldehyde and sinapaldehyde, whereas p-coumaric acid feeding increased the content of downstream coniferylaldehyde and sinapaldehyde with no effect on BA, SA, trans-cinnamic acid or artemisinin. SA is reported earlier to be inducing the artemisinin yield. This report demonstrates the link between the phenylpropanoid/lignin pathway with artemisinin pathway through SA, triggered by accumulation of trans-cinnamic acid because of the blockage at C4H.

Retroperitoneal Cystic Malignant Fibrous Histiocytoma Mimicking a Psoas Abscess

Primary neoplasms in the psoas muscle including schwannoma and soft tissue sarcoma with secondary cystic degeneration are rare entities. They are difficult to distinguish from psoas abscess purely based on radiological findings. Malignant fibrous histiocytoma (MFH) in the retroperitoneum is an uncommon entity in contrast to liposarcoma and leiomyosarcoma. Psoas abscess is a common infection in the retroperitoneum, especially in regions where tuberculosis is endemic. In the current case, the patient presented with gradually progressive lower abdominal pain and raised erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), lymphocyte count and sputum positive for acid fast bacilli. There was a presence of previous history of skeletal tuberculosis. Imaging revealed well-defined multilocular cystic lesion involving the left psoas muscle which along with the clinical scenario suggested psoas abscess. However, post-operative biopsy showed the lesion to be a MFH with extensive cystic degeneration. To the best of our knowledge, cystic MFH mimicking an abscess has been previously reported only once in an oncology literature.

Comparative study of preoperative use of oral gabapentin, intravenous dexamethasone and their combination in gynaecological procedure

BACKGROUND

We studied the effects of oral gabapentin and intravenous (I.V.) dexamethasone given together or separately 1 h before the start of surgery on intraoperative hemodynamics Postoperative analgesia and postoperative nausea vomiting (PONV) in patients undergoing gynaecological procedure.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Patients were randomly divided into three groups: Group 1 (gabapentin, n = 46) received 400 mg gabapentin, Group 2 (dexamethasone, n = 46) received 8 mg dexamethasone and Group 3 (gabapentin plus dexamethasone, n = 46) received both 400 mg gabapentin and 8 mg dexamethasone I.V. 1 h before the start of surgery. Standard induction and maintenance of anesthesia were accomplished. Visual analog scale for pain was recorded for 12 h. Side effects were noted.

RESULTS

Hemodynamics at various time interval (0, 5, 10, 15, 20, 25 and 30 min) of laryngeal mask airway insertion and PONV were found significantly lower in Group 3 than in Group 1 and Group 2 (P < 0.05). The average time to first postoperative analgesic requirement at (visual analogue score >3) was significantly longer in Group 3 (510.00 ± 61.64 min) than in Group 1 (352.83 ± 80.61 min) and in Group 2 (294.78 ± 60.76 min), (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

The present study concludes that the combination of oral Gabapentin and I.V. dexamethasone has significantly less hemodynamic changes, better postoperative analgesia and less incidence of PONV than individual administration of each drug.

Oncotic Cerebral Aneurysms in a Case of Left Atrial Myxoma, Role of Imaging in Diagnostics and Treatment

BACKGROUND

Myxomatous cerebral (oncotic) aneurysms following atrial myxoma is a rare neurological complication.

CASE REPORT

We report an 11-year- old boy with left atrial myxoma and multiple cerebral oncotic aneurysms. The characteristics of these aneurysms are indefinite and variable. The "Metastasize and Infiltrate" theory may be the key mechanism in the formation of these aneurysms.

CONCLUSIONS

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), computed tomography (CT) and angiography are useful in the diagnostics while digital subtraction angiography (DSA) is the best option. There are no definite guidelines for therapy of these aneurysms. Resection of cardiac myxomas, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, coil embolization and surgical treatment could be helpful.

Acacetin 7-O-α-l-rhamnopyranosyl (1-2) β-D-xylopyranoside Elicits Life-span Extension and Stress Resistance in Caenorhabditis elegans

The advancements in the field of gerontology have unraveled the signaling pathways that regulate life span, suggesting that it might be feasible to modulate aging. To this end, we isolated a novel phytomolecule Acacetin 7-O-α-l-rhamnopyranosyl (1-2) β-D-xylopyranoside (ARX) from Premna integrifolia and evaluated its antiaging effects in Caenorhabditis elegans The spectral data analysis revealed the occurrence of a new compound ARX. Out of the three tested pharmacological doses of ARX, viz. 5, 25, and 50 µM, the 25-µM dose was able to extend life span in C. elegans by more than 39%. The present study suggests that ARX affects bacterial metabolism, which in turn leads to dietary restriction (DR)-like effects in the worms. The effect of ARX on worms with mutations (mev-1, eat-2, sir-2.1, skn-1, daf-16, and hsf-1) indicates that ARX-mediated life-span extension involves mechanisms associated with DR and maintenance of cellular redox homeostasis. This study is the first time report on longevity-promoting activity of ARX in C. elegans mediated by stress and DR-regulating genes. This novel phytomolecule can contribute in designing therapeutics for managing aging and age-related diseases.

Verminoside mediates life span extension and alleviates stress in Caenorhabditis elegans

The discovery of bioactive molecules modulating aging in living organism promotes development of natural therapeutics for curing age-related afflictions. The progression in age-related disorders can be attributed to increment in intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) and oxidative stress level. To this end, we isolated an iridoid verminoside (VMS) from Stereospermum suaveolens (Roxb.) DC. and evaluated its effect on Caenorhabditis elegans. The present study delineates VMS-mediated alteration of intracellular ROS, oxidative stress, and life span in C. elegans. The different tested doses of VMS (5 μM, 25 μM, and 50 μM) were able to enhance ROS scavenging and extend mean life span in C. elegans. The maximal life span extension was observed in 25 μM VMS, that is, 20.79% (P < 0.0001) followed by 9.84% (P < 0.0001) in 5 μM VMS and 8.54% (P < 0.0001) in 50 μM VMS. VMS was able to alleviate juglone-induced oxidative stress and enhanced thermotolerance in worms. The stress-modulating and ROS-scavenging potential of VMS was validated by increment in mean survival by 29.54% (P < 0.0001) in VMS-treated oxidative stress hypersensitive mev-1 mutant strain. Furthermore, VMS modulates expression of DAF-16 (a FoxO transcription factor) promoting stress resistance and longevity. Altogether, our results suggest that VMS attenuates intracellular ROS and stress (oxidative and thermal) level promoting longevity. The longevity and stress modulation can be attributed to VMS-mediated alterations in daf-16 expression which regulates insulin signaling pathway. This study opens doors for development of phytomolecule-based therapeutics for prolonging life span and managing age-related severe disorders.

Specioside ameliorates oxidative stress and promotes longevity in Caenorhabditis elegans

Specioside (6-O-coumaroylcatalpol) is an iridoid glucoside which possesses multifunctional activities viz. analgesic, antidyspeptic, astringent, liver stimulating and wound healing properties. The present study for the first time delineates stress alleviating and lifespan prolonging action of specioside (SPC), isolated from Stereospermum suaveolens in the free living, multicellular nematode model Caenorhabditis elegans. A strong correlation between lifespan extension and stress modulation in adult worms was established in a dose dependent manner. The dietary intake of this phytomolecule elevated juglone induced oxidative and heat induced thermal stress tolerance in C. elegans. On evaluation, it was found that 25 μM dose of SPC significantly extended lifespan by 15.47% (P≤0.0001) with reduction in stress level. Furthermore, SPC enhanced mean survival in mev-1 mutant suggesting its oxidative stress reducing potential. Furthermore, SPC augmented stress modulatory enzymes superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) level in C. elegans. Altogether, these findings broaden current perspectives concerning stress alleviating potentials of SPC and have implications in development of therapeutics for curing age related disorders.

Sterol partitioning by HMGR and DXR for routing intermediates toward withanolide biosynthesis

Withanolides biosynthesis in the plant Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal is hypothesized to be diverged from sterol pathway at the level of 24-methylene cholesterol. The conversion and translocation of intermediates for sterols and withanolides are yet to be characterized in this plant. To understand the influence of mevalonate (MVA) and 2-C-methyl-d-erythritol-4-phosphate (MEP) pathways on sterols and withanolides biosynthesis in planta, we overexpressed the WsHMGR2 and WsDXR2 in tobacco, analyzed the effect of transient suppression through RNAi, inhibited MVA and MEP pathways and fed the leaf tissue with different sterols. Overexpression of WsHMGR2 increased cycloartenol, sitosterol, stigmasterol and campesterol compared to WsDXR2 transgene lines. Increase in cholesterol was, however, marginally higher in WsDXR2 transgenic lines. This was further validated through transient suppression analysis, and pathway inhibition where cholesterol reduction was found higher due to WsDXR2 suppression and all other sterols were affected predominantly by WsHMGR2 suppression in leaf. The transcript abundance and enzyme analysis data also correlate with sterol accumulation. Cholesterol feeding did not increase the withanolide content compared to cycloartenol, sitosterol, stigmasterol and campesterol. Hence, a preferential translocation of carbon from MVA and MEP pathways was found differentiating the sterols types. Overall results suggested that MVA pathway was predominant in contributing intermediates for withanolides synthesis mainly through the campesterol/stigmasterol route in planta.

Synchronous multifocal osteogenic sarcoma on multimodality imaging including bone scintigraphy

Multifocal osteosarcoma is diagnosed when there are two or more lesions in the skeleton without presence of pulmonary metastases. It is further classified as synchronous type when the patient is demonstrated to have more than one lesion simultaneously at presentation and is known as Synchronous Multifocal Osteogenicsarcoma (MOGS). We report a case of synchronous MOGS showing its multimodality imaging findings including nuclear scan findings with pathological correlation.