Demographic and Clinical Characteristics of Functional Dyspepsia and Its Subtypes in Adult Patients: An Experience from a Tertiary Care Centre in Bangladesh

Functional dyspepsia (FD) is a common gastrointestinal problem in the world. The Rome III consensus subdivided functional dyspepsia into two groups: meal-related postprandial distress syndrome (PDS) and meal-unrelated epigastric pain syndrome (EPS). Limited data are available regarding FD in Bangladesh. The aim of this study was to investigate the demographic and clinical characteristics of FD and its sub-types. This cross-sectional study was conducted in which we recruited patients who attended the outpatient department of Gastroenterology of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University, Bangladesh from March 2017 to February 2018. Patients fulfilling Rome III FD criteria and a negative upper GIT endoscopy were included for this study. The patients were then subdivided into 'pure' PDS (i.e. meeting criteria for PDS without EPS symptoms), 'pure' EPS (i.e., meeting criteria for EPS without PDS symptoms), and overlapping PDS-EPS (i.e., symptoms of both PDS and EPS) groups. Total of 368 FD patients (56.0% females, mean age 32.8±8.6 years, BMI: 22.0±2.7), were included in this study. Out of them, 112(30.4%) patients (57.2% females, mean age 33.9±9.3 years, BMI: 22.0±2.7) fulfilled criteria of pure EPS and 64(17.4%) patients (68.8% females, mean age 33.2±7.8 years, BMI: 22.1±2.4) fulfilled criteria of pure PDS. However, the majority of patients [192(52.2%), 52.1% females, mean age 32.0±8.4 years, BMI: 21.9±2.8] had symptoms of overlapping EPS-PDS. More than 40% of patients in our study presented with 3 or more of the four key symptoms of FD. A longer duration of presenting symptoms was seen among patients with overlapping EPS-PDS in comparison to pure EPS and pure PDS (p<0.001). A significant overlap of symptoms of both EPS and PDS was noticed among patients with FD. The value of dividing functional dyspepsia into the subgroups of PDS and EPS is thus questionable. Further research and modification of the diagnostic criteria for FD subtypes are necessary.

Ionic liquids: environmentally sustainable materials for energy conversion and storage applications

Ionic liquids (ILs), often known as green designer solvents, have demonstrated immense application potential in numerous scientific and technological domains. ILs possess high boiling point and low volatility that make them suitable environmentally benign candidates for many potential applications. The more important aspect associated with ILs is that their physicochemical properties can be effectively changed for desired applications just by tuning the structure of the cationic and/or anionic part of ILs. Furthermore, these eco-friendly designer materials can function as electrolytes or solvents depending on the application. Owing to the distinctive properties such as low volatility, high thermal and electrochemical stability, and better ionic conductivity, ILs are nowadays immensely used in a variety of energy applications, particularly in the development of green and sustainable energy storage and conversion devices. Suitable ILs are designed for specific purposes to be used as electrolytes and/or solvents for fuel cells, lithium-ion batteries, supercapacitors (SCs), and solar cells. Herein, we have highlighted the utilization of ILs as unique green designer materials in Li-batteries, fuel cells, SCs, and solar cells. This review will enlighten the promising prospects of these unique, environmentally sustainable materials for next-generation green energy conversion and storage devices. Ionic liquids have much to offer in the field of energy sciences regarding fixing some of the world's most serious issues. However, most of the discoveries discussed in this review article are still at the laboratory research scale for further development. This review article will inspire researchers and readers about how ILs can be effectively applied in energy sectors for various applications as mentioned above.

Multistage in silico approach to identify novel quinoline derivatives as potential c-kit kinase inhibitors

The type II-C-KIT signaling network has been extensively studied for its potential as a target for cancer treatment, leading to the investigation of quinoline derivatives as compounds with inhibitory effects on c-Kit kinase. In this study, a multistage approach was employed, including the creation of pharmacophore models, 3D QSAR analysis, virtual screening, docking investigations, and molecular dynamics stimulation. The pharmacophore evaluation included a data set of 29 ligands, which resulted in the generation of the ADDHR_1pharmacophore model as the most promising, with a survival score of 5.6812. The main objective was to utilize the atom-based 3D-QSAR approach for generating robust 3D-QSAR models aimed at identifying new TypeII-C-kit kinase inhibitors. The evaluations of these models have convincingly demonstrated their high predictive power (Q2 = 0.6547, R2 = 0.9947). Using atom-based 3D-QSAR data, a total of 7564 novel compounds were generated from R-group enumeration. Molecular docking and MM-GBSA study revealed that compound A1 exhibited the highest binding score of -9.30 kcal/mol and a Δ GBind value of -90.56 kcal/mol. The ZINC compounds were then screened using the pharmacophore model, followed by virtual screening, which identified ZINC65798256, ZINC09317958, ZINC73187176, and ZINC76176670 as potential candidates with promising docking scores. Among these, ZINC65798256 demonstrated the best binding interactions with amino acid residues, ASP810, LYS623, CYS673, and THR670 (PDB ID: 1T46). To further analyze the structural features and molecular interactions, molecular dynamics simulation was conducted for a time scale of 100 ns.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.

The protective effects of nerol to prevent the toxicity of carbon tetrachloride to the liver in Sprague-Dawley rats

Introduction

Carbon-tetrachloride (CCl4) is well-known to cause liver damage due to severe oxidative stress. Nerol, on the other hand, is a monoterpene that is antioxidant, antiviral, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and anxiolytic. This study set out to determine if nerol may be used as a prophylactic measure against the oxidative stress mediated hepatic injury caused by CCl4.

Materials and methods

For the aim of this experiment, 35 male Sprague-Dawley rats ranging in body weight (BW) from 140 to 180 g were split into five separate groups. With the exception of vehicle control group 1, all experimental rats were subjected to carbon tetrachloride exposure through intra-peritoneal injection at a 0.7 mL/kg body weight dose once a week for 4 weeks (28 days). The treatment groups 3 and 4 received oral administration of nerol at 50 and 100 mg/kg BW for 28 days. In the same time period, the standard control group received 100 mg/kg BW silymarin.

Results

Serum hepatic markers, lipid profiles, albumin, globulin, bilirubin, and total protein were all substantially improved in nerol-treated rats in a dose-dependent manner that had been exposed to CCl4 compared to the only CCl4-treated group. Carbon tetrachloride-exposed rats had lower glutathione, superoxide dismutase, and catalase levels and higher thio-barbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) levels than normal rats. In contrast, administration of nerol shown a significant augmentation in the concentrations of these antioxidant compounds, while concurrently inducing a decline in the levels of TBARS in the hepatic tissue. In a similar vein, the histo-pathological examination yielded further evidence indicating that nerol offered protection to the hepatocyte against damage generated by CCl4.

Conclusion

According to the findings of our investigation, nerol has potential as a functional element to shield the liver from harm brought on by ROS that are caused by CCL4.

Melatonin targets ferroptosis through bimodal alteration of redox environment and cellular pathways in NAFLD model

Ferroptosis is a non-conventional cellular death caused by lipid peroxide induced iron deposition. Intracellular lipid accumulation followed by generation of lipid peroxides is an hallmark of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Melatonin (MLT) is an important pineal hormone with tremendous antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Various studies targeted ferroptosis in different diseases using melatonin. However, none of them focused the intrinsic mechanism of MLT's action to counteract ferroptosis in NAFLD. Hence, the present study investigated the role of MLT in improvement of NAFLD-induced ferroptosis. HepG2 cells were treated with free fatty acids (FFAs) to induce in vitro NAFLD state and C57BL/6 mice were fed with high-fat diet (HFD) followed by MLT administration. The results indicated that MLT administration caused the recovery from both FFA- and HFD-induced ferroptotic state via increasing GSH and SOD level, decreasing lipid reactive oxygen species (ROS) and malondialdehyde (MDA) level, increasing Nrf2 and HO-1 level to defend cells against an oxidative environment. MLT also altered the expression of two key proteins GPX4 and SLC7A11 back to their normal levels, which would otherwise cause ferroptosis. MLT also protected against histopathological damage of both liver tissue and HepG2 cells as depicted by Oil Red O, HE staining and immunofluorescence microscopy. MLT also had control over pAMPKα as well as PPARγ and PPARα responsible for lipid homeostasis and lipogenesis. In brief, MLT exerted its multifaceted effect in FFA- and HFD-induced NAFLD by retrieving cellular oxidative environment, reducing lipogenesis and lipid peroxidation and modulating Nrf2/HO-1 and GPX4/SLC7A11 axis to combat ferroptosis.

Quercetin and 5-Fu Loaded Chitosan Nanoparticles Trigger Cell-Cycle Arrest and Induce Apoptosis in HCT116 Cells via Modulation of the p53/p21 Axis

Nanoparticles (NPs) are encapsulating agents that exist in the nanometer range. They can be classified into different classes based on their properties, shapes, or sizes. Metal NPs, fullerenes, polymeric NPs, ceramic NPs, and luminescent nanoporous hybrid materials are only a few examples. This study explored the anticancer potential of quercetin and 5-fluorouracil-encapsulated chitosan nanoparticles (CS-5-FU-QCT NPs). The nanoparticles were prepared by ionic gelation, and their efficacy and mechanism of action were examined. CS-5-FU-QCT NPs were characterized using dynamic light scattering (DLS), atomic force microscopy (AFM), UV-visible spectroscopy, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR); cytotoxicity was analyzed using an MTT assay. Cells were treated with CS-5-FU-QCT NPs and incubated for 12, 24, and 36 h, and apoptosis analysis (using Annexin V/FITC), cell-cycle analysis, Western blotting, and confocal microscopic analysis were performed. Biophysical analysis revealed that the CS-5-FU-QCT NPs fall in the range of 300-400 nm with a near-spherical shape. The in vitro drug release profile indicates sustained release of drugs over a period of about 36 h. The cytotoxicity of CS-5-FU-QCT NPs was more prominent in HCT116 cells than in other cancer cells. This particular nanoformulation caused G0/G1 phase cell-cycle arrest in HCT116 cells and induced intracellular ROS generation, thereby causing apoptosis. It also downregulated Bcl2, cyclin D1, and Cdk4 and upregulated BAX, p53, and p21, causing cell-cycle arrest and apoptosis. In summary, CS-5-FU-QCT NPs hindered proliferation of HCT116 cells via ROS generation and altered the expression of key proteins in the p53/p21 axis and apoptotic machinery in a time-dependent manner.

Treatment of H. pylori infection and gastric ulcer: Need for novel Pharmaceutical formulation

Peptic ulcer disease (PUD) is one of the most prevalent gastro intestinal disorder which often leads to painful sores in the stomach lining and intestinal bleeding. Untreated Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection is one of the major reasons for chronic PUD which, if left untreated, may also result in gastric cancer. Treatment of H. pylori is always a challenge to the treating doctor because of the poor bioavailability of the drug at the inner layers of gastric mucosa where the bacteria resides. This results in ineffective therapy and antibiotic resistance. Current treatment regimens available for gastric ulcer and H. pylori infection uses a combination of multiple antimicrobial agents, proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), H2-receptor antagonists, dual therapy, triple therapy, quadruple therapy and sequential therapy. This polypharmacy approach leads to patient noncompliance during long term therapy. Management of H. pylori induced gastric ulcer is a burning issue that necessitates alternative treatment options. Novel formulation strategies such as extended-release gastro retentive drug delivery systems (GRDDS) and nanoformulations have the potential to overcome the current bioavailability challenges. This review discusses the current status of H. pylori treatment, their limitations and the formulation strategies to overcome these shortcomings. Authors propose here an innovative strategy to improve the H. pylori eradication efficiency.

Ru(II) catalyzed chelation assisted C(sp2)-H bond functionalization along with concomitant (4 + 2) annulation

Efficacious protocols have been established to synthesize a structurally privileged Π-extended coumarin-fused pyridone nucleus by activating the vinylic C(sp²)-H bond of coumarin-3-carboxamide under the influence of inexpensive Ru(II)-metal. Here an N-methoxy carboxamide entity has been exploited as the chelating fragment to manifest C(sp²)-H bond functionalization with a concomitant (4 + 2) annulation reaction, resulting in heterocyclic ring-forming protocols along with sulfoxonium ylide and iodonium ylide as representative bench-stable carbene surrogates. This diverse heterocycle formation via carbene insertion strategies, is further expanded to activate the ortho-C(sp²)-H bonds of different heterocycles by employing the sp²-N moiety as the directing group to develop acyl-alkylated/alkenylated quinazolines, isoxazoles and highly fluorescent pyridone-N-oxides. Intriguingly, during an evaluation of the versatility of the current protocols, a one-pot double C-H activation has been rationalized in the presence of iodonium ylide, which results in biologically potent benzimidazole-fused coumarin-centered bridge-headed polycyclic heteroarenes. Furthermore, a chemo-selective late-stage synthetic transformation is being designed to develop differently substituted pyridone analogues by switching the nature of the reducing agent. In addition, a photophysical experiment was done on one pyridine-N-oxide compound (7e) and delightfully it exhibited fluorescence quenching activity selectively in the presence of Al³⁺ ions, which appears to be a unique feature of our methodology. Finally, upon correlation of the merit of the developed pathways, the iodonium ylide mediated strategy appears to be superior.

Electrochemically Enabled C4-H and C3-H Functionalization of 2-Phenyl Quinazoline and Quinoxaline through Dehydrogenative C-H/C-H, C-H/P-H, and C-H/O-H Cross-Coupling

Quinazoline moieties and particularly C4-substituted quinazoline scaffolds are widely distributed in biologically active molecules, and thus, direct C4-functionalization of quinazolines is the most convenient way to materialize new, straightforward, and sustainable strategies for the synthesis of useful medicinal targets. Retrospecting that, effort has been directed toward electrocatalytic C4-H bond diversification of quinazoline and related electron-deficient N-heterocycles (quinoxaline) offering C4 and C3 benzoyl-, acetyl-, phenol-, ether-, phosphonate-, and nitroalkane-incorporated N-heterocycles via a radical addition pathway under sacrificial oxidant- and additive-free conditions. Various coupling partners and quinazolines, as well as other structurally similar heterocyclic motifs, respond well, providing moderate to high yields of coupled products along with the gram-scale upgradation. Additionally, the performed control experiments and cyclic voltammetry investigations also nicely justified the proposed mechanism of the coupling process. Further, late-stage functionalization leading to the synthesis of indolo quinolines and vinyl-sulfonated products using the ruthenium-catalyzed skeletal transformation of benzoylated quinazoline 3b nicely appropriated the developed methodology. Finally, this reaction can be summarized as (a) anodic activation of the functionalized Hantzsch ester to furnish key radical species; (b) radical addition to an activated N-heterocycle; and (c) oxidation leading to the target product without the assistance of any metal chelation.

Manjari Medika Grape Seed Extract Protects Methotrexate-Induced Hepatic Inflammation: Involvement of NF-κB/NLRP3 and Nrf2/HO-1 Signaling System

Objective

Grape Seed Extract is a natural source of various polyphenols, which have been shown to possess potent antioxidant and free radical-scavenging activities. The earlier studies have reported that grape seed extract exhibits broad-spectrum pharmacological activities. Therefore, studying the hepatoprotective effects and elucidation of mechanisms of action of the Indian Variety, Manjari Medika grape seed extract (GSE), may give an insight into therapeutic benefits. Methotrexate (MTX) is the first-line pharmacological therapy for different rheumatic diseases. The major adverse events such as hepatotoxicity are evident even in the low doses used for the treatment. The present study investigated the role of MTX on hepatic damage in murine liver and the plausible protective effects of the Indian grape variety, Manjari Medika grape seed extract, in ameliorating it.

Methods and Results

To assess the hepatological modulation, mice were divided into eight groups to investigate the ameliorative potential of this GSE (75 and 125 mg/kg) and correlate the experimental findings. The active components of the extract were assessed through UPLC-(ESI)-QToF-MS analysis. On the other hand, various biochemical and immunological indices were carried out to correlate the experimental data. The result demonstrated that the prophylactic administration of GSE reduced MTX-induced hepatic toxicity indices, which subsequently restored the hepatic morphological architecture. Moreover, the application of GSE in a dual dosage (75 and 125 mg/kg) suppressed MTX-induced reactive oxygen species generation, followed by lipid peroxidation and cellular nitrite formation. MTX-induced inflammasome activation through the redox-assisted cascade of TLR4/NF-κB signaling was further reduced by applying the GSE. The results showed that the activation of cytoprotective transcription factor Nrf2 enhanced the level of endogenous antioxidants. Furthermore, through the regulation of TLR4/NF-κB and Nrf2/HO-1 axis, this extract could reduce the MTX-mediated hepatic damage.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that Manjari Medika seed extract could be used as a therapeutic agent to relieve the side effects of MTX and other hepatic disorders.

Field and atom-based 3D-QSAR models of chromone (1-benzopyran-4-one) derivatives as MAO inhibitors

Monoamine oxidases (MAOs) are flavo-enzymes that aid in the oxidative deamination of neurotransmitters like dopamine, serotonin, and epinephrine. MAO inhibitors are antidepressants that work by preventing the breakdown of brain neurotransmitters and regulating mood. MAO inhibitors that use the chromone (1-benzopyran-4-one) structure have been found to be quite effective in studies. The current study involves the creation of pharmacophore models, 3-D QSAR, virtual screening, and docking investigations, all of which are evaluated using various criteria. The investigation included 39 ligands that emerged pharmacophore AHRRR_1, as the best pharmacophore model with a survival score of 5.6485. The 3D QSAR investigation revealed a significant model with the values of R2 = 0.9064 and Q2 = 0.8239. Docking study revealed that compound 18 had the highest docking (-10.402 kcal/mol) score in the series and showed interactions with the essential amino acid TYR398 required for MAO inhibitory activity. ZINC compounds were screened using the created pharmacophore model, which was followed up with a virtual screening study. The ZINC compounds with the best XP docking scores are ZINC03113255, ZINC07777127, ZINC05166353 and ZINC09341502 (with docking scores -10.021, -9.486, -8.031 and -7.792 kcal/mol, respectively). ZINC03113255, which showed the best score, has binding interactions with amino acid residues, TYR326, TYR398 and LYS296 of monoamine oxidase B. The ADME analysis demonstrated the compound's drug-like characteristics. The findings of this study may be used in the development of chromone compounds that target the MAO inhibitor.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.

New palladium(II) and platinum(II) complexes with ONS donor azo-thioether pincer ligand: Synthesis, characterization, protein binding study and in vitro cytotoxicity

New Pd(II) and Pt(II) complexes, [Pd(L)Cl] (1) and [Pt(L)Cl] (2) with O,N,S donor azo-thioether pincer ligand (HL) are synthesized and thoroughly characterized by spectroscopic techniques. X-ray structures of the complexes...

Ionic Liquids: Environmentally Sustainable Materials for Energy Conversion and Storage Applications.. [DOI: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-2212222/v1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0]

Ionic liquids (ILs), known as green designer solvents, have shown tremendous application potential in various fields of science and technology. Their unusual and unique physicochemical properties have attracted researchers worldwide from interdisciplinary research areas. ILs possess high boiling point and low volatility, that makes them suitable environmentally benign candidates for many potential applications. The more important aspect associated with ILs is their physicochemical properties can be effectively changed for desired applications just by tuning the structure of the cationic and/or anionic part of ILs. Furthermore, these environmentally benign designer materials can be used as both electrolytes as well as solvents depending on the requirement. Owing to thedistinctive properties such as low volatility, high thermal and electrochemical stability, better ionic conductivity, ILs are nowadays immensely used in variety of energy applications, particularly in the development of green and sustainable energy storage and conversion devices. Suitable ILs are designed for specific purposesto be used as electrolytes and/or solvents for fuel cells, lithium-ion batteries, supercapacitors(SCs) and solar cells. Herein, we have highlighted the utilization of ILs as unique green designer materials in Li-batteries, fuel cells,SCs and solar cells. This review will enlighten the promising prospects of these unique environmentally sustainable materials for next-generation green energy conversion and storage devices.

Bowel Habit Pattern of Patients with Self-Reported Constipation at Out Patient Department in North East Part of Bangladesh

The aim of this study was to observe the symptoms and bowel habit pattern experienced by patients presenting with self reporting constipation at Out Patient Department in a tertiary care hospital. It was a cross-sectional study which was conducted in Out Patient Department of gastroenterology in North East Medical College Hospital, Sylhet, Bangladesh from January 2017 to December 2018. Total 228 consecutive patients with self reported constipation were enrolled in this study. Patients with history of abdominal surgery, known chronic disease, age below 18 years, pregnant women, patients using drugs like anti-depressant, anti-psychotic and patients unwilling to take part in the study were excluded. Demographic data, symptoms, bowel habit pattern and character of stool were recorded at enrollment in a pre-designed data sheet. Total 228 patients, male 130(57.0%) and female 98(43.0%), age varying from 18-81 years (mean age 38.7±15.10 years) were included. Among them 127 patients (55.7%) was experienced daily bowel motion with frequency varying from one to seven and 99 patients (44.3%) had infrequent stools. Sixteen (16) patients (7.0%), 182 patients (79.8%) and 30 patients (13.2%) had feeling of complete bowel evacuation all time, few days in a week and almost never respectively. Among the patients 127(55.7%), 29(12.7%), 06(2.6%), 02(0.9%) and 64(28.1%) complained of hard, soft, semi liquid, liquid and stool of variable consistency respectively. In this study 159(63.73%), 21(9.21%) and 43(18.85%) patients were regularly taking Proton pump inhibitor (PPI), anti- diabetic drugs and anti-hypertensive drugs respectively. The finding suggests that there was a wide variation of self perception of constipation among the patient. The study concludes that patient's perception regarding constipation does not always match the traditional medical definition. Overall findings signify that symptoms like stool consistency, volume, and feeling of incomplete evacuation are more important rather than frequency of bowel per week in patients' perception regarding constipation. However, further study with large sample size in different hospitals in different areas could explain this observation more precisely.

An Investigative Review for Pharmaceutical Analysis of Fenofibrate

HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors (statins), lipoprotein lipase activators (PPARα agonists) or fibrates are commonly used for controlling increased lipid levels in hyperlipidemia. Fenofibrate (FEN) belongs to the second generation prodrug fibric acid (isobutyric acid) derivative belonging to lipoprotein lipase activator class of drug. Results of clinical studies suggest that FEN can substantially reduce severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2. alpha and beta variant infection in human cell efficiently. This review article provides an in-depth examination of critical analytical methodologies used in the pharmaceutical analysis of FEN in pure forms, biological samples and pharmaceuticals. According to literature study reports several analytical techniques have been used for determination of FEN alone or in the combined dosage forms. Based on the literature, it was determined that high-performance liquid chromatography and UV/vis-spectrophotometry are the most widely used methods for FEN analysis. Sahoo et al. have developed the best HPLC method in bulk and pharmaceutical dosage form with the retention time of 19.268 min using phosphate buffer (pH 3.0): acetonitrile in the ratio of 30:70 (% v/v) as mobile phase. The information presented here may provide a solid foundation for future research on FEN in the field of drug analysis.

Medical Knowledge versus Perception of Patients with Abdominal Gas in a Tertiary Level Hospital of Bangladesh

Every human being has gas in abdomen. But patients try to correlate varieties of symptoms with abdominal gas. So this cross sectional symptom based study was designed to see the patients view regarding abdominal gas and its relation with medically explained symptoms at the out patient department of North East Medical College, Sylhet from January 2017 to December 2019. Consecutive patients presenting with complain of abdominal gas were included in this study. Their demographic information and explanation of symptoms resulting from abdominal gas were recorded on a pre-designed data sheet. Statistical analysis was done using SPSS 20.0 version. Total 346 patients, male 239(69.1%), female 107(30.9%), age varying from 17-83 years (mean 38.27) were enrolled. Common symptoms were bloating (fullness) of abdomen (194, 56.1%), abdominal pain (164, 47.41%), belching or eructation (149, 43.1%), heart burn (137, 39.6%), anorexia (124, 35.8%), nausea (120, 34.7%), noisy bowel (88, 25.4%), chest pain (79, 22.8%), headache (56, 16.2%), whole body pain (58, 16.8%), incomplete bowel evacuation (185, 53.5%), excess flatus (76, 22.4%), movement of gas to different part of body including head 87(25.1%) and expulsion of hot air from ear, nose and head in 69(19.9%) patients. Among them 107(30.9%) patients believed abdominal gas to be a curable disease with treatment and 222(64.2%) believed it to be a relapsing disease even after treatment. And 307(88.7%) patients were taking proton pump inhibitor (PPI) as its remedy regularly. Most of the symptoms of patients can be explained by abdominal gas. Again some patients have a misperception regarding some symptoms like heart burn, noisy bowel and sense of incomplete bowel evacuations are also related with abdominal gas. But in some instances causal relations with patients' symptoms and abdominal gas could not be explained by medical knowledge. These differences in perceptions might be related to their personal thinking and social, cultural, educational, economic condition.

Melatonin Suppresses NLRP3 Inflammasome Activation via TLR4/NF-κB and P2X7R Signaling in High-Fat Diet-Induced Murine NASH Model

Background

NLRP3 inflammasome activation plays a critical role in mediating inflammation and NASH (non-alcoholic steatohepatitis) progression that ultimately leads to cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. Melatonin (MLT) controls high-fat diet-induced NASH in the murine model by modulating NLRP3 mediated inflammation. P2X7R-mediated inflammasome activation is reported in several inflammatory models including NASH.

Objective

The role of MLT in P2X7R-mediated inflammation in the NASH model has not yet been explored. The present study investigated the role of MLT in amending high-fat diet-induced nonalcoholic steatohepatitis in the murine liver.

Methods

To evaluate the hepatological changes, mice were divided into four groups to investigate the improvement potential of this MLT (10 and 20 mg/kg) and to assess the experimental findings. Histology, biochemical assays, ELISA, FACS analysis, Western blotting, and IF were performed to assess the physical and molecular changes upon melatonin treatment.

Results

The result demonstrated that MLT administration reduced HFD (high-fat diet)-induced non-alcoholic steatohepatitic indices, which successively restored the hepatic morphological architecture and other pathophysiological features too. Moreover, the application of MLT suppressed HFD-induced activation of the inflammasome and through TLR4/NF-κB signaling. Herein, we report that MLT significantly suppresses P2X7R expression and calcium influx along with inflammasome in both in vitro and in vivo. The docking study revealed a strong binding affinity of MLT with P2X7R. Moreover, the results also showed that the Nrf2 level was boosted which may normalize the expression of antioxidant proteins that safeguard against oxidative damage triggered by inflammation. Furthermore, some matrix metalloproteinases like MMP 2 and MMP 9 were repressed and TIMP-1 level was increased, which also signifies that MLT could improve liver fibrosis in this model.

Conclusion

Based on our findings, this study may conclude that MLT could be used as a therapeutic agent in the high-fat diet-induced NASH model as it has persuasive anti-inflammatory potential.

Synthesis, properties and catalysis of quantum dots in C–C and C-heteroatom bond formations

Luminescent quantum dots (QDs) represent a new form of carbon nanomaterials which have gained widespread attention in recent years, especially in the area of chemical sensing, bioimaging, nanomedicine, solar cells, light-emitting diode (LED), and electrocatalysis. Their extremely small size renders some unusual properties such as quantum confinement effects, good surface binding properties, high surface‐to‐volume ratios, broad and intense absorption spectra in the visible region, optical and electronic properties different from those of bulk materials. Apart from, during the past few years, QDs offer new and versatile ways to serve as photocatalysts in organic synthesis. Quantum dots (QD) have band gaps that could be nicely controlled by a number of factors in a complicated way, mentioned in the article. Processing, structure, properties and applications are also reviewed for semiconducting quantum dots. Overall, this review aims to summarize the recent innovative applications of QD or its modified nanohybrid as efficient, robust, photoassisted redox catalysts in C–C and C-heteroatom bond forming reactions. The recent structural modifications of QD or its core structure in the development of new synthetic methodologies are also highlighted. Following a primer on the structure, properties, and bio-functionalization of QDs, herein selected examples of QD as a recoverable sustainable nanocatalyst in various green media are embodied for future reference.

Correction: Accessing oxy-functionalized N-heterocycles through rose bengal and TBHP integrated photoredox C(sp3)-O cross-coupling

Correction for 'Accessing oxy-functionalized N-heterocycles through rose bengal and TBHP integrated photoredox C(sp³)-O cross-coupling' by Rahul Dev Mandal et al., Org. Biomol. Chem., 2022, 20, 2939-2963, https://doi.org/10.1039/D2OB00381C.

Elliptically polarized sum-frequency generation by total-internal-reflection-based optical rotation quasi-phase-matching technique

This work demonstrates the elliptically polarized radiation of sum-frequency generation by the total-internal-reflection-based optical rotation quasi-phase-matching technique that allows polarization rotation in the presence of an external electric field across a rectangular-shaped, Y₂O₃-coated, MgO-doped LiNbO₃ crystal. This thin film is employed to control the phase shifts generated by p- and s-polarized light propagation at each bounce point of the slab-film interface. The computer-aided simulation yielded a high conversion efficiency of 7.5%/W/cm, reflecting the combined field impact of the optical rotation quasi-phase-matching and fractional quasi-phase-matching approaches. Moreover, the conversion yielding limiting factors such as absorption, surface roughness, and the interference effect of the nonlinear law of reflection have also been included to simulate the generation of a 770 nm wavelength. A comparative assessment of the generated linearly and elliptically polarized radiations has also been addressed.

Prevalence of Sonologically Detected Non-alcoholic Fatty liver disease Among School Children of Sylhet City

This cross sectional descriptive type of observational study was designed to see the prevalence of NAFLD among school children of Sylhet, Bangladesh from December 2019 to January 2020. School children of three private schools of Sylhet City were randomly selected. Socio-demographic data and anthropometric measurement of them were recorded. Then they underwent screening sonologically for NAFLD. Data analysis was done using SPSS version 20.0. P value <0.05 was taken as significant. Total 174 students, boys 99(56.9%) and girls 75(43.1%) were included. Age of them varied from nine years to 17 years (mean 13.408). In this series 82(47.1%), 52(29.9%) and 40(23.0%) were of normal weight, overweight and obese children respectively. In this study 29(16.7%) children had NAFLD and seven (4.0%) had biliary sludge in gall bladder. NAFLD was significantly higher among children with higher BMI (p=0.00). Female sex, children consuming fast food and playing video games were about two times more prone to develop NAFLD. Biliary sludge was found significantly higher among children consuming fast food (p=0.02). NAFLD among school going children is not uncommon. Higher BMI is a significant risk factor of developing NAFLD. Girls and children consuming fast food and playing video games also are more prone to develop NAFLD. Prevalence of sludge in gall bladder is low among school children.

Phytochemical Profiling and Pharmacognostic Evaluation of Oldenlandia corymbosa and Ocimum sanctum Leaves Hydroalcoholic Extracts: Comparative Study

Herbs are an important source of bioactive substances. These are widely used to treat several disorders for better function in the human body, minimum toxic effects, and widespread availability. A total of two medicinal herbs from West Bengal, India, such as Oldenlandia corymbosa (Diamond flower) and Ocimum sanctum (Holy basil), are being considered for inclusion in the current study. Hydroalcoholic extracts (70% ethanolic) of the two plants' leaves were analyzed to detect and quantify important phytochemical substances and investigate in vitro antioxidant and pharmacological effects. Spectrophotometric and HPLC-DAD techniques were used for the quantitative estimation of different phytochemicals. In addition, in vitro antimicrobial properties were studied using the Kirby-Bauer paper disc diffusion method. Several assays have been performed on the medicinal plant Oldenlandia corymbosa (OC). The results have been compared to those obtained from a traditional medical plant, Ocimum sanctum (OS) for the first time to our knowledge. Results showed that OS contains a higher quantity of polyphenols, flavonoids, and has higher antioxidant potential with respect to OC. Similar trends were observed for polysaccharides contents. In contrast, OC contains a higher quantity of tannins, alkaloids, and protein and higher in vitro antibacterial and anti-diabetic properties. HPLC-DAD-based profiling of eight important phenolic constituents viz. Gallic acid, catechin hydrate, chlorogenic acid, caffeic acid, syringic acid, p-coumaric acid, sinapic acid, coumarin, quercetin, and kaempferol, were performed. The current study concluded that Oldenlandia corymbosa has many bioactive phenolics in considerable amounts compared to the highly established medicinal herb OS leaves extracts. The current study demonstrates the pharmacological significance of Oldenlandia corymbosa that may generate enthusiasm among researchers and those working in the pharmaceutical industry.

Accessing oxy-functionalized N-heterocycles through rose bengal and TBHP integrated photoredox C(sp3)–O cross-coupling

A C(sp3)–O coupling strategy is described involving tautomerizable N-heterocycles (phthalazinone, pyridne, pyrimidinone and quinoxalinone) carbonyl employing rose bengal as the photocatalyst and TBHP.

Helicobacter Pylori Infection and Endoscopic Findings in Bangladeshi Dyspeptic Patients

Helicobacter Pylori (H Pylori) that infects about 90% people of developing countries causes dyspepsia and upper gastrointestinal lesions. The aim of this study was to detect the trend of H Pylori active infection and to investigate the endoscopic findings of H Pylori infected dyspeptic patient of Bangladesh. In this prospective study, 360 dyspeptic patients (Male-251, Female-109) were recruited. Patients having alarm features, history of gastrectomy and malignancy were excluded from this study. Non-invasive fecal antigen test for H Pylori was done of all patients. All selected patients were sent for upper gastrointestinal endoscopy. Helicobacter Pylori fecal antigen was found positive in 134(37.2%) from 360 dyspeptic patients (age 14-80 years). Among 360 patients 303 (80.16%) had macroscopic endoscopic mucosal lesions. H Pylori infected 114 patients had endoscopic mucosal abnormality. H Pylori non-infected 189 patients also had mucosal lesion. Twenty patients (35.08%) had H Pylori infection among the 57 patients having endoscopic normal looking mucosa. This study revealed that active H Pylori infection rate is declining in Bangladesh. Risk of endoscopic mucosal lesion is more expected in H Pylori active infection.

Ligand-free access to benzisothiazolones and benzisoselenazolones through NiFe2O4 catalyzed concomitant annulation of 2-halobenzanilides with chalcogens and their late-stage transformations

A practical non-hazardous one-pot protocol for the synthesis of benzisothiazolones and benzisoselenazolones, involving magnetically retrievable nano-nickel ferrite catalyzed tandem annulation between 2-halobenzanilides and elemental S8 or Se.

CANDIED: A Pan-Canadian Cohort of Immune Checkpoint Inhibitor-Induced Insulin-Dependent Diabetes Mellitus

Simple Summary

Immune checkpoint inhibitor-induced insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (ICI-induced IDDM) is an emerging form of autoimmune diabetes. We describe the characteristics of 34 patients who developed ICI-induced IDDM across five Canadian cancer centres. We observed that presentation with hyperglycemic crisis is common and that patients treated with combination immunotherapy regimens develop ICI-induced IDDM earlier than those treated with monotherapy. Our results suggest that ICI-induced IDDM is irreversible but is associated with high tumor response rates and prolonged survival. The data generated by this study may help clinicians manage ICI-induced IDDM.

Abstract

Immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI)-induced insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (IDDM) is a rare but potentially fatal immune-related adverse event (irAE). In this multicentre retrospective cohort study, we describe the characteristics of ICI-induced IDDM in patients treated across five Canadian cancer centres, as well as their tumor response rates and survival. In 34 patients identified, 25 (74%) were male and 19 (56%) had melanoma. All patients received anti-programed death 1 (anti-PD1) or anti-programmed death ligand-1 (anti-PD-L1)-based therapy. From ICI initiation, median time to onset of IDDM was 2.4 months (95% CI 1.1–3.6). Patients treated with anti-PD1/PD-L1 in combination with an anti-cytotoxic T lymphocyte antigen 4 antibody developed IDDM earlier compared with patients on monotherapy (1.4 vs. 3.9 months, p = 0.05). Diabetic ketoacidosis occurred in 21 (62%) patients. Amongst 30 patients evaluable for response, 10 (33%) had a complete response and another 10 (33%) had a partial response. Median overall survival was not reached (95% CI NE; median follow-up 31.7 months). All patients remained insulin-dependent at the end of follow-up. We observed that ICI-induced IDDM is an irreversible irAE and may be associated with a high response rate and prolonged survival.

Virtual Screening through Molecular Docking Analysis to Identify Potential Natural Inhibitor(s) of Lyn Tyrosine Kinase- An In-silico Approach

Breast cancer on becoming one of the leading cancer types, emerged as an important barrier in increasing life expectancy of the overall population. In the current study, some compounds were screened based on literature survey for the identification of natural bioactive compounds as potential inhibitors of Lyn tyrosine kinase. Therefore, a multi-step molecular docking was carried out using AutoDock embedded in the MGL Tools. After initial screening, molecules having a higher docking score and binding free energy compared to Tamoxifen were considered for further assessment. Some already known synthetic lyn tyrosine kinase inhibitor have been used for better understanding of the comparative study. Based on in silico Lipinski filter analysis, toxicity prediction, pharmacokinetic analysis, four compounds were proposed to be promising inhibitors of Lyn tyrosine kinase. Furthermore, the binding interactions of all proposed inhibitors of Lyn showed strong ligand efficiency in terms of energy score obtained with the help of molecular modelling analyses. Hence, the proposed compounds out of which three are bioactive compounds might be taken forward as potential next-generation Lyn kinase inhibitors for managing Lyn associated breast cancer after experimental authentication.

Pan-Canadian cohort of immune checkpoint inhibitor-induced insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (CANDIED)

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Background: Endocrine immune-related adverse events (irAEs) are frequent with immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs); however, ICI-related insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (IDDM) is a rare but serious endocrine irAE. We describe the characteristics of patients who developed ICI-related IDDM across five academic Canadian cancer centres. Methods: In this multicentre, retrospective study, we included both patients who developed IDDM and patients with non-IDDM (NIDDM) or pre-DM who became insulin-dependent while on treatment with ICI. We collected data on primary tumor type, ICI regimen (single agent or combination), time to development of IDDM from ICI initiation, comorbidities, laboratory parameters at the time of IDDM diagnosis, tumor response and survival. A p value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: We identified 27 patients between July 2016 and August 2019. Median age was 60 (39-79) years, 20 (74%) were male, 15 (55%) had melanoma and 4 each (15%) non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and renal cell carcinoma. Seven (26%) patients had prior NIDDM or pre-DM; 5 (18%) had an auto-immune disease (2 psoriasis, 2 inflammatory bowel disease, and 1 systemic lupus erythematosus). Laboratory parameters at presentation and management of IDDM are presented in the Table. Mean A1c was not statistically different between patients with or without prior NIDDM or pre-DM (8.4% vs. 8.6%; p = 0.9). All IDDM events were irreversible; 1 (4%) patient died of diabetic ketoacidosis. At time of IDDM diagnosis, 17 (63%) patients were receiving single agent anti-PD1 and 10 (37%) anti-PD1-based combinations (7 anti-CTLA-4, and 3 other compounds). Median time for development of IDDM from ICI initiation was 2.7 months (95% CI 0.2-5.3). Patients receiving combination ICI developed IDDM earlier than those treated with single agent (1.4 vs 4.8 months; p = 0.05). Amongst patients with metastatic disease (n = 24), 9 (38%) had a complete response and 7 (29%) had a partial response. Two patients (8%) were treated in the adjuvant setting; 1 (4%) received consolidation ICI. IDDM led to ICI discontinuation in 12 (44%) patients. After a median follow up of 21 months from ICI initiation, median survival was 30 months (95% CI NE) and was not reached in patients with melanoma and NSCLC. Conclusions: ICI-related IDDM is a rare and typically irreversible irAE that occurs early in the course of treatment and develops earlier with combination ICI. In this cohort, patients who developed ICI-related IDDM had a high tumor response rate and prolonged survival, especially melanoma and NSCLC patients. Prospective evaluation of autoantibodies to predict development of IDDM is ongoing.[Table: see text]

One Size Does Not Fit All: An Overview of Personalized Treatment in Cancer

The last few decades have witnessed 'one size fits all' kind of conventional treatment strategy i.e. a similar line of treatment or usage of the same drug to treat a particular disease. This approach is not associated with specific personal characteristics but with individual genetic constitutions. Precision oncology holds great opportunities to improve prediction, treatment and follow-up care for the benefit of cancer patients. In this study, many pieces of literature and various clinical data have been surveyed to understand how multiple genes are responsible for a particular cancer type and tabulate them. Having the genetic information of a patient and knowing the genes that are susceptible to mutation can help in the diagnosis. That in turn help to get the most tailored medicines, which will decrease the chances of treatment failure, which is quite common in cancer therapies. This review focuses on providing an idea of the genes whose mutation directly or indirectly can lead to cancer and other diseases also, and hence might be helpful to design separate treatment strategies for each individual in future.

Pancreatobiliary Diseases: Evaluation by Transabdominal and Endoscopic Ultrasound

Pancreaticobiliary diseases are the important causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Among the imaging modalities, Transabdominal ultrasound (TUS) is cheap, available, and noninvasive but it has some limitations. Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) is invasive but it has some diagnostic and therapeutic advantages over TUS. This study was aimed to see the diagnostic yields of EUS and TUS in the pancreatobiliary diseases. This cross sectional study was conducted in Sir Salimullah Medical College Mitford Hospital (SSMC&MH), Dhaka, Bangladesh from March 2017 to February 2019. All (n=222) patients were evaluated clinically and with relevant investigations. TUS and EUS were done in all patients. Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) was done in 60 patients. Among 222 patients 56.8% were males; mean age was 46±16 years; the main presenting symptoms were abdominal pain and jaundice. In diseases of biliary tree, EUS showed dilated CBD alone or in combination with stone in 50 and 67 cases and TUS showed 37, 63 patients respectively. The difference between the findings of EUS and TUS was statistically significant (p=0.00). In gall bladder, EUS found microlithiasis in 6(2.6%) and sludges in 24(10.8%) cases whereas TUS found microlithiasis in 1(0.5%) and sludges in 17(7.7%) cases respectively (p=0.00). Both EUS and TUS detected cholelithiasis in equal number of patients 46(20.3%). On pancreatic evaluation, EUS and TUS detected pancreatic parenchymal abnormalities in 24(10.8%) and 12(5.5%) patients respectively with significant p value (0.00). In cases of pancreatic and cholangiocarcinoma the difference between the findings of EUS and TUS were statistically significant (p<0.05). EUS detected 7 cases of ampullary/peri-ampullary neoplasms whereas TUS detected only 2 cases. The sensitivity of EUS for detecting CBD dilatation, CBD stones, CBD SOL and pancreatic SOL was 85%, 91%, 93%, and 92% respectively. The sensitivity of TUS for detecting CBD dilatation, CBD stones, CBD SOL and pancreatic SOL was 42%, 52%, 40%, and 37% respectively. EUS is more sensitive than TUS in diagnosing pancreaticobiliary disorders. It is of paramount importance in patients in diagnosing CBD dilatation, choledocholithiasis, biliary microlithiasis and pancreaticobiliary neoplasm. EUS has important role before proceeding to further management by more invasive techniques like ERCP or surgery.

Depression among Patients Presenting with Gastrointestinal Symptoms: Prevalence and Associated Factors

Gastrointestinal diseases frequently affect patients' physical and emotional wellbeing as being heavily affected by stress. This study was conducted to find out prevalence and severity of depressive symptoms among patients presenting with gastrointestinal symptoms. This cross sectional study was conducted at Outpatients Department jointly by Department of Gastroenterology and Department of Psychiatry of a tertiary care hospital in north east part of Bangladesh from November 2011 to June 2012. Consecutive patients with gastrointestinal symptoms underwent psychiatric evaluation using HDRS and analyzed. 442 patients, 38(8.6%) were found normal. Among the rest 128(28.96%), 138(31.22%), 72(16.29%) and 66(14.93%) had mild, moderate, severe and very severe depressive symptoms respectively. Female sex (95.03% vs. 89.32%), married people (93.77 vs. 86.13%), older age (98.24%), rural people (94.26% vs. 84.36%), farmers (96.36%) and house wives (96.24%) were more affected. Prevalence of depression was also higher among patients with lower socioeconomic class, less educated people and rural background. Depressive symptoms are very common in patients presenting with gastrointestinal symptoms. Awareness regarding psychiatric assessment and intervention may reduce sufferings and thus improve wellbeing of these patients.

A comparative assessment of in vitro cytotoxic activity and phytochemical profiling of Andrographis nallamalayana J.L.Ellis and Andrographis paniculata (Burm. f.) Nees using UPLC-QTOF-MS/MS approach

Andrographis paniculata (Burm. f.) Nees and Andrographis nallamalayana J.L.Ellis have traditionally been used to treat various ailments such as mouth ulcers, intermittent fever, inflammation, snake bite. This study compares the comparative in vitro cytotoxic activity, and phytochemical profiling of methanol extract of A. nallamalayana (ANM) and A. paniculata (APM). UPLC-ESI-QTOF-MS/MS analysis has been performed. The cytotoxic activity of crude methanol extracts were evaluated against three different cancer cell lines (HCT 116, HepG2, and A549 cell line). Both plants' extract exhibited significant cytotoxic activity against tested cell lines in a dose-dependent manner. IC₅₀ of ANM and APM in HCT 116 cell was 11.71 ± 2.48 μg ml⁻¹ and 45.32 ± 0.86 μg ml⁻¹ and in HepG2 cell line was 15.65 ± 2.25 μg ml⁻¹ and 60.32 ± 1.05 μg ml⁻¹ respectively. Cytotoxicity of these two extracts was comparatively similar in A549 cells. ANM induced cytotoxicity involved programmed cell death, externalisation of phosphatidylserine, ROS generation, up-regulation and down-regulation of major apoptotic markers. HRMS analysis of ANM and APM resulted in the identification of 59 and 42 compounds, respectively. Further, using the MS/MS fragmentation approach, 20 compounds, of which 18 compounds were identified for the first time from ANM, which belongs to phenolic acids, flavonoids, and their glycosides. Three known compounds, echioidinin, skullcapflavone I and 5,2′,6′-trihydroxy-7-methoxyflavone 2′-O-β-d-glucopyranoside, were isolated from A. nallamalayana and their crystal structures were reported for the first time. Subsequently, seven major compounds were identified in A. nallamalayana by direct comparison (retention time and UV-spectra) with authentic commercial standards and isolated compounds using HPLC-UV analysis. The cytotoxicity of phytochemicals from both the plants using in silico tools also justify their in vitro cytotoxic activity. It is the first report on the comparative characterisation of phytochemicals present in the methanolic extract of both the species of Andrographis, along with the cytotoxic activity of A. nallamalayana.

A comparative study of two Andrographis species have been done, and it was found that Andrographis nallamalayana J.L.Ellis is phytochemically and biologically different from Andrographis paniculata (Burm. f.) Nees.

Prevalence of Organic Colonic Lesions by Colonoscopy in Patients with Irritable Bowel Syndrome Fulfilling Rome III Criteria

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a chronic functional gastrointestinal disorder usually diagnosed by using symptom-based diagnostic criteria. Recent evidence suggests the presence of organic diseases in some patients fulfilling the diagnostic criteria of IBS which may be missed unless investigations are performed. The aim of this cross-sectional study is to find out the prevalence of organic colonic lesions at colonoscopy in patients with IBS fulfilling the Rome III criteria.The study was conducted in the department of Gastroenterology OPD of the North East Medical College, Sylhet, Bangladesh from December 2016 to December 2017. Consecutive 153 patients of IBS diagnosed by validated Bangla version of ROME III criteria were included in this study. Colonoscopy was done for each patient and findings were recorded. Prevalence of colonic disease was compared between those meeting criteria for IBS, according to the presence or absence of co-existent alarm features, and by IBS subtype. A substantial number of patients 43(28.1%) fulfilling the Rome III criteria were found to have organic colonic lesions at colonoscopy. No significant difference was found regarding colonic lesions among patients with IBS symptoms with or without alarm features (p=0.876). Colonic polyp was the commonest findings in 19(12.1%) subjects at colonoscopy, followed by colonic ulcers in 16(10.5%) subjects. Organic colonic lesions are found to be more common among relatively older age group patients (p=0.011). A significant number of patients with symptoms compatible with IBS exhibited colonic lesions following investigation with a predilection towards older age. Careful clinical evaluation and relevant investigations are necessary to reduce diagnostic uncertainty.

Phytochemical composition analysis and evaluation of in vitro medicinal properties and cytotoxicity of five wild weeds: A comparative study

Background: Medicinal plants are a source of phytochemicals and they are used for the treatment of several oxidative stress-related or other diseases for their effectiveness, low toxicity and easy availability. Five traditionally used and less characterized herbaceous weeds of West Bengal, India, namely, Heliotropium indicum, Tridax procumbens, Cleome rutidosperma, Commelina benghalensis and Euphorbia hirta, were investigated for the current research study. Methods: Aqueous and 70% ethanolic extracts of the leaves were analyzed for estimation of essential phytochemicals and to evaluate their in vitro antioxidant status, medicinal properties and cytotoxic effects. To the best of our knowledge, several assays and comparative evaluations using these herbs are reported for the first time. For quantitative study, UV-vis spectrophotometry and high-performance liquid chromatography with diode array detector HPLC-DAD techniques were used. Antibacterial properties were investigated using the Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion method. For in vitro anti-lithiatic study, a titration method was used. The cell viability assay was done using peripheral blood mononuclear cells. Results: The aqueous extract exhibits higher content of polyphenols, flavonoids, tannins and inhibition percentage values for free radical scavenging assays, whereas the 70% ethanolic extract exhibits higher content of alkaloids and cardiac glycosides. HPLC-DAD analysis of 70% ethanolic extracts led us to identify 10 predominant phenolic constituents. Euphorbia hirta extracts showed minimum cytotoxicity (cell death ~2.5% and 4% in water and 70% ethanolic extract, respectively ), whereas Cleome rutidosperma and Tridax procumbens' 70% ethanolic extracts showed higher cell death (~13% and 28%, respectively), compared with the control (cell death ~10-12%). Conclusions: The study concluded that of all the medicinal weeds selected for the current study, Euphorbia hirta possesses the highest amount of bioactive compounds and hence exhibits the highest in vitro antioxidant activity and promising in vitro medicinal properties.

Nanocrystalline ZnO: A Competent and Reusable Catalyst for the Preparation of Pharmacology Relevant Heterocycles in the Aqueous Medium

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Nanoparticle catalyzed synthesis is a green and convenient method to achieve most of the chemical transformations in water or other green solvents. Nanoparticle ensures an easy isolation process of catalyst as well as products from the reaction mixture avoiding the hectic work up procedure. Zinc oxide is a biocompatible, environmentally benign and economically viable nanocatalyst with effectivity comparable to the other metal nanocatalyst employed in several reaction strategies. This review mainly focuses on the recent applications of zinc oxide in the synthesis of biologically important heterocyclic molecules under sustainable reaction conditions.

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Application of zinc oxide in organic synthesis: Considering the achievable advantages of this nanocatalyst, presently several research groups are paying attention in anchoring zincoxide or its modified structure in several types of organic conversions e.g. multicomponent reactions, ligand-free coupling reactions, cycloaddition reaction, etc. The advantages and limitations of this nanocatalyst are also demonstrated. The present study aims to highlight the recent multifaceted applications of ZnO towards the synthesis of diverse heterocyclic motifs. Being a promising biocompatible nanoparticle, this catalyst has an important contribution in the fields of synthetic chemistry and medicinal chemistry.

Hypervalent iodine promoted ortho diversification: 2-aryl benzimidazole, quinazoline and imidazopyridine as directing templates

The mild and efficient palladium-catalyzed ortho C(sp²)-H diversification of (NH)-free 2-substituted benzimidazole, quinazoline, and imidazopyridine is reported using hypervalent iodine as the key reagent. Acetoxy, aryl, iodide and nitro functional groups were introduced on the same substrate by simply shifting the reaction conditions in the presence of inorganic additives (Cs₂CO₃, I₂, NaNO₂) and the hypervalent iodine reagent (diacetoxyiodo)benzene (PIDA) under aerobic conditions. The combination of NaNO₂ with PIDA was successfully employed in Pd-catalyzed C-H bond nitration to achieve a library of nitrated 1,3 N-heterocycles. This versatile ortho C(sp²)-H activation strategy features operational simplicity, short reaction times, and ample substrate possibilities, it requires no ligands or silver salts as additives, and it shows good tolerance of oxidation prone functional groups.

Biological promiscuity of a binuclear Cu(ii) complex of aminoguanidine Schiff base: DNA binding, anticancer activity and histidine sensing ability of the complex

A binuclear Cu(ii) complex of aminoguanidine shows strong DNA binding activity and encouraging anti-cancer activity against HCT-16 cells. The complex can also be used for selective spectrophotomteric or fluorometric determination of histidine.

Designing of novel zinc(ii) Schiff base complexes having acyl hydrazone linkage: study of phosphatase and anti-cancer activities

The phosphatase and anti-cancer activities of three novel acyl hydrazone based zinc(ii) Schiff base complexes have been unveiled.

Folic acid-conjugated magnetic mesoporous silica nanoparticles loaded with quercetin: a theranostic approach for cancer management

The development of drug carriers based on nanomaterials that can selectively carry chemotherapeutic agents to cancer cells has become a major focus in biomedical research. A novel pH-sensitive multifunctional envelope-type mesoporous silica nanoparticle (SBA-15) was fabricated for targeted drug delivery to human colorectal carcinoma cells (HCT-116). SBA-15 was functionalized with folic acid (FA), and the material was loaded with the water-insoluble flavonoid, quercetin (QN). Additionally, acid-labile magnetite Fe₃O₄ nanoparticles were embedded over the FA-functionalized QN-loaded monodisperse SBA-15 to prepare the highly orchestrated material FA-FE-SBA15QN. The in vitro and in vivo anti-carcinogenic efficacy of FA-FE-SBA15QN was carried out to explore the pH-sensitive QN release with putative mechanistic aspects. FA-FE-SBA15QN caused a marked tumor suppression, and triggered mitochondrial-dependent apoptosis through a redox-regulated cellular signaling system. Furthermore, FA-IO-SBA-15-QN initiated the c-Jun N-terminal Kinase (JNK)-guided H2AX phosphorylation, which relayed the downstream apoptotic signal to the phosphorylate tumor suppressor protein, p53. On the other hand, the selective inhibition of heat shock protein-27 (HSP-27) by FA-FE-SBA15QN augmented the apoptotic fate through JNK/H2AX/p53 axis. The in vitro and in vivo magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) studies have indicated the theranostic perspective of the composite. Thus, the result suggested that the newly synthesized FA-FE-SBA15QN could be used as a promising chemo theranostic material for the management of carcinoma.

pH-Sensitive quercetin/Fe₃O₄ NPs loaded functionalized mesoporous SBA-15 fabricated for targeted drug delivery to colorectal carcinoma cells with high anti-carcinogenic efficacy.

Tannic acid and vitamin E loaded PLGA nanoparticles ameliorate hepatic injury in a chronic alcoholic liver damage model via EGFR-AKT-STAT3 pathway

Aim: Tannic acid and vitamin E loaded-poly D, L-lactide-co-glycolic acid (PLGA) nanoparticles (NP) were developed to achieve hepatoprotection in alcoholic liver disease mice model. Materials & methods: PLGA NPs were formed by emulsion solvent evaporation and characterized and delivered to mice. Histology studies were performed, serum enzyme levels of AST, ALT and inflammatory cytokines were checked using ELISA kits. Confocal microscopy and western blot analysis were utilized to determine protein expression levels, and docking studies were performed for interaction analysis. Results: PLGA NPs provided hepatoprotection by reducing inflammatory load, preventing reactive oxygen species generation and apoptosis, as well as by inhibiting the EGFR-AKT-STAT3 pathway. Conclusion: PLGA NPs of tannic acid and vitamin E could be a future medication for alcoholic liver disease treatment.