Inhibitory Efficacy of Thiosemicarbazones for Carbonic Anhydrase II (Bovine and Human) as a Target of Calcification and Tumorigenicity

Background:

Carbonic anhydrase II (CA-II) is associated with calcification, tumorigenicity, epilepsy, osteoporosis, and several other physiological or pathological processes. CA-II inhibitors can be used to reduce the intraocular pressure usually associated with glaucoma.

Objective:

In search of potent CA-II inhibitors, a series of thiosemicarbazone derivatives (3a-u) was synthesized.

Methods:

This series was evaluated against bovine and human carbonic anhydrase II (bCA-II and hCA-II) and their docking studies were carried out

Results:

In the preliminary screening, most of the compounds exhibited significant inhibition of bCA-II and hCA-II. The predictive structure-activity relationship suggested that the thiosemicarbazide moiety play a key role in the inhibition of enzyme activity and substitution at R position and has a remarkable contribution to the overall activity. The kinetics studies of the most active inhibitors of bCA-II (3d, 3e, 3l, 3f, and 3p) and hCA-II (3g) were performed against bCA-II and hCA-II, respectively to investigate their mode of inhibition and dissociation constants (Ki).

Conclusion:

Subsequently, 3e, 3f, 3l and 3p were identified as competitive inhibitors of bCA-II with Ki values of 5.02-14.70 µM, while 3d as a noncompetitive inhibitor of bCA-II (Ki = 2.5±0.015 µM), however, 3g demonstrated competitive inhibition of hCA-II with Ki value of 5.95±0.002 µM. The selectivity index reflects that the compound 3g is more selective for hCA-II. The binding modes of these compounds with bCA-II and hCA-II were investigated by structure-based molecular docking, and the docking results are in complete agreement with the experimental findings.

The crude oil biodegradation activity of Candida strains isolated from oil-reservoirs soils in Saudi Arabia

Crude oil (petroleum) is a naturally occurring complex composed of hydrocarbon deposits and other organic materials. Bioremediation of crude oil-polluted sites is restricted by the biodiversity of indigenous microflora. They possess complementary substrates required for degrading the different hydrocarbons. In the current study, four yeast strains were isolated from different oil reservoirs in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The oil-biodegradation ability of these isolates showed variable oxidation effects on multiple hydrocarbons. The scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images showed morphological changes in Candida isolates compared to the original structures. The drop-collapse and oil emulsification assays showed that yeast strains affected the physical properties of tested hydrocarbons. The content of biosurfactants produced by isolated strains was quantified in the presence of different hydrocarbons to confirm the oil displacement activity. The recovery assays included acid precipitation, solvent extraction, ammonium sulfate, and zinc sulfate precipitation methods. All these methods revealed that the amount of biosurfactants correlates to the type of tested hydrocarbons, where the highest amount was produced in crude oil contaminated samples. In conclusion, the study highlights the importance of Candida isolated from contaminated soils for bioremediation of petroleum oil pollution. That raises the need for further analyses on the microbes/hydrocarbon degradation dynamics.

Production, statistical optimization, and functional characterization of alkali stable pectate lyase of Paenibacillus lactis PKC5 for use in juice clarification

Pectate lyase is a hydrolytic enzyme used by diverse industries to clarify food. The enzyme occupies a 25% share of the total enzyme used in food industries, and their demand is increasing gradually. Most of the enzymes in the market belong to the fungal origin and take more time to produce with high viscosity in the fermentation medium, limiting its use. The bacteria belonging to the genus Bacillus have vast potential to produce diverse metabolites of industrial importance. The present experiment aimed to isolate pectate lyase-producing bacteria that can tolerate an alkaline environment at moderate temperatures. Bacillus subtilis PKC2, Bacillus licheniformis PKC4, Paenibacillus lactis PKC5, and Bacillus sonorensis ADCN produced pectate lyase. The Paenibacillus lactis PKC5 gave the highest protein at 48 h of incubation that was partially purified using 80% acetone and ammonium sulphate. Purification with 80% acetone resulted in a good enzyme yield with higher activity. SDS-PAGE revealed the presence of 44 kDa molecular weight of purified enzyme. The purified enzyme exhibits stability at diverse temperature and pH ranges, the maximum at 50 °C and 8.0 pH. The metal ions such as Mg2+, Zn2+, Fe2+, and Co2+ significantly positively affect enzyme activity, while increasing the metal ion concentration to 5 mM showed detrimental effects on the enzyme activity. The organic solvents such as methanol and chloroform at 25% final concentration improved the enzyme activity. On the other hand, detergent showed inhibitory effects at 0.05% and 1% concentration. Pectate lyase from Paenibacillus lactis PKC5 had Km and Vmax values as 8.90 mg/ml and 4.578 μmol/ml/min. The Plackett–Burman and CCD designs were used to identify the significant process parameters, and optimum concentrations were found to be pectin (5 gm%) and ammonium sulphate (0.3 gm%). During incubation with pectate lyase, the clarity percentage of the grape juice, apple juice, and orange juice was 60.37%, 59.36%, and 49.91%, respectively.

Toxicity evaluation and oxidative stress response of fumaronitrile, a persistent organic pollutant (POP) of industrial waste water on tilapia fish (Oreochromis mossambicus)

The study was designed to determine the impact of acute toxicity of fumaronitrile exposure through tissue damaging, oxidative stress enzymes and histopathological studies in gills, liver and muscle cells of freshwater tilapia fish (Oreochromis mossambicus). In gill, liver, and muscle cells, biochemical indicators such as tissue damage enzymes (Acid Phosphatase (ACP), Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP), and Lactate Dehydrogenase (LDH)) and antioxidative enzymes (Superoxide Dismutase (SOD); Catalase (CAT); Glutathione-S-transferase (GST); Reduced Glutathione (GSH); Glutamate oxaloacetate transaminase (GOT) and Glutamate pyruvate transaminase (GPT) were quantified in the time interval of 30, 60 and 90 days exposure to the fumaronitrile. After 90 days, under 6 ppb exposure conditions, the acid phosphatase (ACP) levels of fish increased significantly in the gills (3.439 μmol/mg protein/min), liver (1.743 μmol/mg protein/min), and muscles (2.158 μmol/mg protein/min). After 90 days of exposure to the same concentration and days, ALP activity increased significantly in gills (4.354 μmol/mg protein/min) and liver (1.754 μmol/mg protein/min), but muscle cells had a little decrease in ALP activity (2.158 μmol/mg protein/min). The LDH concentration in gills following treatment with fumaronitrile over a period of 0-90 days was 3.573 > 3.521 > 2.245 μmol/mg protein/min over 30 > 60 > 90 days. However, at the same dose and treatment duration, a greater LDH level of 0.499 μmol/mg protein/min was found in liver and muscle cells. Histopathological abnormalities in the gills, liver, and muscle cells of treated fish were also examined, indicating that fumaronitrile treatment generated the most severe histological changes. The current study reveals that fumaronitrile exposure has an effect on Oreochromis mossambicus survival, explaining and emphasising the risk associated with this POP exposure to ecosystems and human populations.

Removal of lead ions from wastewater using lanthanum sulfide nanoparticle decorated over magnetic graphene oxide

In this study, the new lanthanum sulfide nanoparticle (La₂S₃) was synthesized and incorporated onto magnetic graphene oxide (MGO) sheets surface to produce potential adsorbent (MGO@LaS) for efficient removal of lead ions (Pb²⁺) from wastewater. The synthesized MGO@LaS adsorbent was characterized using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, field emission scanning electron microscopy and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. The effective parameters on the adsorption process including solution pH (~5), adsorbent dosage (20 mg), contact time (40 min), initial Pb²⁺ concentration and temperature were studied. The removal efficiency was obtained >95% for lead ions at pH 5 with 20 mg adsorbent. To validate the adsorption rate and mechanism, the kinetic and thermodynamic models were studied based on experimental data. The Langmuir isotherm model was best fitted to initial equilibrium concentration with a maximum adsorption capacity of 123.46 mg/g. This indicated a monolayer adsorption pattern for Pb²⁺ ions over MGO@LaS. The pseudo-second-order as the kinetic model was best fitted to describe the adsorption rate due to high R² > 0.999 as compared first-order. A thermodynamic model suggested a chemisorption and physisorption adsorption mechanism for Pb²⁺ ions uptake into MGO@LaS at different temperatures; ΔG° < -5.99 kJ mol^-1 at 20 °C and ΔG° -18.2 kJ mol^-1 at 45 °C. The obtained results showed that the novel nanocomposite (MGO@LaS) can be used as an alternative adsorbent in wastewater treatment.

Effect of Ca2+ ions on naphthalene adsorption/desorption onto calcium oxide nanoparticle: Adsorption isotherm, kinetics and regeneration studies

The adsorptive nature of calcium oxide nanoparticles in aqueous sample of naphthalene in presence of Ca²⁺ ions was estimated. Enhanced efficiency of calcium oxide regeneration (90%) with the aid of calcium chloride in the solution concentration of 0.002-0.1 M was depicted. The less degree of toxic naphthalene desorption merged with SEM, FTIR and XRD characterization data portrays the importance of naphthalene adsorption onto calcium oxide using calcium chloride for regeneration. Batch adsorption studies were performed to evaluate the operating parameters such as pH, naphthalene concentration, contact time and impact of Ca²⁺ on naphthalene study. The adsorption isotherm of naphthalene on calcium oxide nanoparticle was described by Langmuir, Freundlich, Temkin and Dubinin Radushkevich and theoretical maximum monolayer adsorption capacity was found to be 63.81 mg/g at 303 K. The adsorption kinetic best fitted with pseudo second order kinetic model. The positive influence of making the addition of Ca²⁺ ions into naphthalene solution for its rapid adsorption was elucidated which is leaded by a probable increase in sorption capacity for naphthalene molecules at lower concentrations. The stable nature of crystallinity of calcium oxide and a less degree of naphthalene molecules leaching during consecutive cycles of adsorptive process and nanoparticle regeneration was also scrutinized.

Potential surface active agent production using very low grade and cheap substrate by Bacillus subtilis as microbial cell factory

Bio-surfactants are surface-active molecules which are produced by the wide range of microbes including bacteria, fungi, moulds, and yeast. This study was conducted to identify bio-surfactants by Bacillus subtilis combined with use of cheap substrates and industrial wastes (Mustard cake, Whey and Soya cake) which are found locally in Nepal. Bacillus subtilis, one of the most potential bio-surfactants producer; was isolated from soil sample of hydrocarbon contaminated site. Isolates were grown in a Minimal Salt Media (MSM) with 10% (v/v) mustard oil cake, whey and soya cake separately. The presence and potential of surfactant was determined by the oil spreading technique, emulsification index (%E24) and surface tension measurement. It was revealed that the surface tensions of cell free extract were 54.41, 60.02 and 56.64 mN/m for from mustard cake, whey and soya cake respectively as compared to distilled water (72.09) at 25oC. The emulsification index values was found to be highest in engine oil from the bio-surfactant extracted from mustard cake, soya cake and whey respectively. Similarly, mustard oil showed the lowest value of emulsification index. The highest emulsification activity was shown in mustard oil i.e. 1.13 from the cell free extract from mustard oil and lowest in engine oil i.e., 0.07, by the extract from soya cake medium, when measured in spectrophotometer at 540 nm. In conclusion, strain of Bacillus subtilis was found to be the potential surface active agent producers on the mustard oil cake, which can be useful medium for various environmental, food, medicinal and industrial processes.

Sono-Chemical Synthesis of Silver Quantum Dots Immobilized on Exfoliated Graphitic Carbon Nitride Nanostructures Using Ginseng Extract for Photocatalytic Hydrogen Evolution, Dye Degradation, and Antimicrobial Studies

Due to modernization and the scarcity of fossil fuel resources, energy demand is continuously increasing. In this regard, it is essential and necessary to create a renewable energy source that can meet future energy demands. Recently, the production of H2 by water splitting and removing pollutants from the water has been essential for issues of energy and environmental demands. Herein, g-C3N4 and Ag-g-C3N4 composite structures have been successfully fabricated by the ultrasonication method. The physio/photochemical properties of prepared g-C3N4 and Ag-g-C3N4 were examined with different analytical techniques such as FTIR, XRD, UV-DRS, SEM, TEM, PL, and XPS analyses. The silver quantum dots (QDS) anchored to g-C3N4 structures performed the profound photocatalytic activities of H2 production, dye degradation, and antimicrobial activity under visible-light irradiation. The Ag/g-C3N4 composite with an Ag loading of 0.02 mole has an optimum photoactivity at 335.40 μmol g-1 h-1, which is superior to other Ag loading g-C3N4 composites. The synthesized Ag/g-C3N4 nanoparticles showed potential microbial inhibition activity during the preliminary screening, and the inhibition zones were comparable to the commercial antibiotic chloramphenicol. The loading of Ag into g-C3N4 paves the suppression, recombination and transfer of photo-generated electron-hole pairs, leading to the enhancement of hydrogen production, the diminishment of pollutants in water under visible light irradiation, and antimicrobial activity against multidrug-resistant pathogens.

2-Nitro- and 4-fluorocinnamaldehyde based receptors as naked-eye chemosensors to potential molecular keypad lock

New-generation chemosensors desire small organic molecules that are easy to synthesise and cost-effective. As a new interdisciplinary area of research, the integration of these chemosensors into keypad locks or other advanced communication protocols is becoming increasingly popular. Our lab has developed new chemosensor probes that contain 2-nitro- (1-3) and 4-fluoro-cinnamaldehyde (4-6) and applied them to the anion recognition and sensing process. Probes 1-6 are colorimetric sensors for naked-eye detection of AcO-/CN-/F-, while probes 4-6 could differentiate between F- and AcO-/CN- anions in acetonitrile. Using the density functional theory (DFT), it was found that probes 1-6 acted as effective chemosensors. By using Probe 5 as a chemosensor, we explored colorimetric recognition of multiple anions in more detail. Probe 5 was tested in combination with a combinatorial approach to demonstrate pattern-generation capability and its ability to distinguish among chemical inputs based on concentration. After pattern discrimination using principal component analysis (PCA), we examined anion selectivity using DFT computation. In our study, probe 5 demonstrates excellent performance as a chemosensor and shows promise as a future molecular-level keypad lock system.

New Insight into the Chemical Composition, Antimicrobial and Synergistic Effects of the Moroccan Endemic Thymus atlanticus (Ball) Roussine Essential Oil in Combination with Conventional Antibiotics

This study reported the volatile profile, the antimicrobial activity and the synergistic potential of essential oil (EO) from the Moroccan endemic Thymus atlanticus (Ball) Roussine, in combination with the antibiotics ciprofloxacin and fluconazole for the first time, to the best of our knowledge. The EO chemical composition was determined by gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis and the antimicrobial activity assessed by the disc diffusion method against three Gram positive (Bacillus subtilis, Micrococcus luteus, Staphylococcus aureus) and three Gram-negative bacteria (Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli and one clinical isolate, Klebsiella pneumonia). The antifungal activity was evaluated in four pathogenic yeasts (Candida albicans, C. glabrata, C. krusei and C. parapsilosis). The minimum inhibition concentration (MIC) and the synergistic effect with ciprofloxacin and fluconazole were determined by the two-fold dilution technique and checkerboard test, respectively. Twenty-one constituents were identified by GC-MS in the EO, including carvacrol (21.62%) and borneol (21.13%) as the major components. The EO exhibited a significant antimicrobial activity with inhibition zones ranging from 0.7 mm to 22 mm for P. aeruginosa and B. subtilis, respectively, and MIC values varying from 0.56 mg/mL to 4.47 mg/mL. The fractional inhibitory concentration index (FICI) values ranged from 0.25 to 0.50 for bacteria and from 0.25 to 0.28 for yeasts. The maximum synergistic effect was observed for K. pneumonia with a 256-fold gain of antibiotic MIC. Our results have suggested that EO from T. atlanticus may be used alone or in association with antibiotics as a new potential alternative to prevent and control the emergence of resistant microbial strains both in the medical field and in the food industry.

A systematic review and meta-analysis on the prevalence of infectious diseases of Duck: A world perspective

The Indian poultry industry is one of the fast-growing sectors of which duck farming plays an important role. Duck population in India is 33.51 million that is concentrated towards north-east and southern parts of the country who rears mainly for eggs and meat. Duck diseases are of great concern as they badly affect the financial status of the small, landless farmers. Databases such as Google Scholar, PubMed, J gate were used to search articles between 2000 and 2019 that showed the prevalence of viral, bacterial, and parasitic duck diseases. R open source software was used to derive forest plots by statistical analysis. Pooled prevalence estimates of duck diseases worldwide was found to be 20% (95%-CI:15–26). Also, continent-wise analysis of all duck diseases has revealed highest prevalence in North America, followed by Asia, Africa, Europe,Oceania and South America. This prevalence of data would be helpful to the policymakers to develop appropriate intervention strategies to prevent and control diseases in their respective locations.

Control of Virulent Listeria monocytogenes Originating from Dairy Products and Cattle Environment Using Marine Algal Extracts, Silver Nanoparticles Thereof, and Quaternary Disinfectants

Introduction

Listeria monocytogenes is an important foodborne pathogen of public- and animal-health concern globally. The persistence of L. monocytogenes in the dairy-processing environment has multifactorial causes, including lack of hygiene, inefficient cleaning, and improper disinfection practices.

Materials and Methods

A total of 300 dairy-product and environmental samples were collected from dairy-cattle facilities and local dairy shops and vendors in Qena, Egypt. Samples were screened for the incidence of Listeria spp. and to detect virulence determinants and disinfectant-resistance genes. Three marine algal species - Caulerpa racemosa, Jania rubens, and Padina pavonica - were collected from Hurghada on the Red Sea coast. Algal extracts were screened using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. The antimicrobial activity of some marine algal extracts, nanoparticles derived therefrom, and some disinfectants against L. monocytogenes strains were assessed in vitro using agar-well diffusion and liquid-broth methods. The impact of P. pavonica extract on the growth and survival of virulent L. monocytogenes in cheese and whey were clarified.

Results and Discussion

The incidence of L. monocytogenes in dairy products and environmental samples was 15.5% and 19%, respectively. The most common toxigenic gene profile found among the isolates was hlyA ⁺-inlA ⁺-prfA ⁺. The sensitivity pattern of L. monocytogenes strains to disinfectant containing alkyl (C_12-16) dimethyl BAC was high compared to other tested quaternary ammonium compounds (QAC) disinfectants tested, which showed lower log reductions against resistant strains. The QAC disinfectant-resistance gene qacH was detected in 40% of the isolates. Potent bactericidal activity of a petroleum ether extract of P. pavonica and silver nanoparticles of P. pavonica were obtained against the virulent L. monocytogenes strain. The population of L. monocytogenes in cheese curd and whey after 14 days was reduced at a rate of 9 log CFU/g and 8 log CFU/mL, respectively due to the effect of P. pavonica extract. After 28 days of storage, L. monocytogenes was completely inactivated in those dairy products.

Conclusion

P. pavonica extract showed promising antimicrobial properties, calling for further comprehensive studies prior to it being applied in the food industry to enhance the safety, quality, and shelf life of products and protect public health.

Mesorhizobium ciceri as biological tool for improving physiological, biochemical and antioxidant state of Cicer aritienum (L.) under fungicide stress

Fungicides among agrochemicals are consistently used in high throughput agricultural practices to protect plants from damaging impact of phytopathogens and hence to optimize crop production. However, the negative impact of fungicides on composition and functions of soil microbiota, plants and via food chain, on human health is a matter of grave concern. Considering such agrochemical threats, the present study was undertaken to know that how fungicide-tolerant symbiotic bacterium, Mesorhizobium ciceri affects the Cicer arietinum crop while growing in kitazin (KITZ) stressed soils under greenhouse conditions. Both in vitro and soil systems, KITZ imparted deleterious impacts on C. arietinum as a function of dose. The three-time more of normal rate of KITZ dose detrimentally but maximally reduced the germination efficiency, vigor index, dry matter production, symbiotic features, leaf pigments and seed attributes of C. arietinum. KITZ-induced morphological alterations in root tips, oxidative damage and cell death in root cells of C. arietinum were visible under scanning electron microscope (SEM). M. ciceri tolerated up to 2400 µg mL-1 of KITZ, synthesized considerable amounts of bioactive molecules including indole-3-acetic-acid (IAA), 1-aminocyclopropane 1-carboxylate (ACC) deaminase, siderophores, exopolysaccharides (EPS), hydrogen cyanide, ammonia, and solubilised inorganic phosphate even in fungicide-stressed media. Following application to soil, M. ciceri improved performance of C. arietinum and enhanced dry biomass production, yield, symbiosis and leaf pigments even in a fungicide-polluted environment. At 96 µg KITZ kg-1 soil, M. ciceri maximally and significantly (p ≤ 0.05) augmented the length of plants by 41%, total dry matter by 18%, carotenoid content by 9%, LHb content by 21%, root N by 9%, shoot P by 11% and pod yield by 15% over control plants. Additionally, the nodule bacterium M. ciceri efficiently colonized the plant rhizosphere/rhizoplane and considerably decreased the levels of stressor molecules (proline and malondialdehyde) and antioxidant defence enzymes viz. ascorbate peroxidise (APX), guaiacol peroxidise (GPX), catalase (CAT) and peroxidises (POD) of C. arietinum plants when inoculated in soil. The symbiotic strain effectively colonized the plant rhizosphere/rhizoplane. Conclusively, the ability to endure higher fungicide concentrations, capacity to secrete plant growth modulators even under fungicide pressure, and inherent features to lower the level of proline and plant defence enzymes makes this M. ciceri as a superb choice for augmenting the safe production of C. arietinum even under fungicide-contaminated soils.

Bioremediation characteristics, influencing factors of dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT) removal by using non-indigenous Paracoccus sp

The marine bacterium able to consume DDT as the nutrient source was isolated from sea water which was identified as Paracoccus sp. DDT-21 based on 16 S rDNA gene sequence and Gram negative rod, obligate aerobic, non-motile biochemical characteristics. The isolate can degrade over 80% of the DDT, at a concentration of 50 mg/L in MSM in 72 h. Time and pollutant (DDT) dependent growth studies indicated that the isolate Paracoccus sp., DDT-21 significantly degrade the DDT and tolerates under DDT stress up to 50 mg/L. The DDT degradation capability of the strain Paracoccus sp. DDT-21 was found to be 5 ˃ 10 ˃ 15 ˃ 25 ˃ 50 mg/L DDT. The high concentrations (75 and 100 mg/L) of DDT showed significant decrease in DDT degradation. The optimal DDT degradation (∼90.0%) was observed at 6 g/L of yeast extract, 6% of glucose in pH 7.0 at 35 °C with 72 h of incubation as constant. Furthermore, four metabolites were observed by GC-MS analysis such as, DDE, DDD, DDMU, and DDA. The obtained results indicate that the isolate Paracoccus sp. DDT-21 is a promising candidate for the removal and/or detoxification of DDT in the environment.

Cytotoxic and anti-excitotoxic effects of selected plant and algal extracts using COMET and cell viability assays

Excess glutamate in the central nervous system may be a major cause of neurodegenerative diseases with gradual loss and dysfunction of neurons. Primary or secondary metabolites from medicinal plants and algae show potential for treatment of glutamate-induced excitotoxicity. Three plant extracts were evaluated for impact on glutamate excitotoxicity-induced in primary cultures of retinal ganglion cells (RGC). These cells were treated separately in seven groups: control; Plicosepalus. curviflorus treated; Saussurea lappa treated; Cladophora glomerate treated. Cells were treated independently with 5, 10, 50, or 100 µg/ml of extracts of plant or alga material, respectively, for 2 h. Glutamate-treated cells (48 h with 5, 10, 50, or 100 µM glutamate); and P. curviflorus/glutamate; S. lappa/glutamate; C. glomerata/glutamate [pretreatment with extract for 2 h (50 and 100 µg/ml) before glutamate treatment with 100 µM for 48 h]. Comet and MTT assays were used to assess cell damage and cell viability. The number of viable cells fell significantly after glutamate exposure. Exposure to plant extracts caused no notable effect of viability. All tested plants extracts showed a protective effect against glutamate excitotoxicity-induced RGC death. Use of these extracts for neurological conditions related to excitotoxicity and oxidative stress might prove beneficial.

Biological characteristics and biomarkers of novel SARS-CoV-2 facilitated rapid development and implementation of diagnostic tools and surveillance measures

Existing coronavirus named as a severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) has speeded its spread across the globe immediately after emergence in China, Wuhan region, at the end of the year 2019. Different techniques, including genome sequencing, structural feature classification by electron microscopy, and chest imaging using computed tomography, are primarily used to diagnose and screen SARS-CoV-2 suspected individuals. Determination of the viral structure, surface proteins, and genome sequence has provided a design blueprint for the diagnostic investigations of novel SARS-CoV-2 virus and rapidly emerging diagnostic technologies, vaccine trials, and cell-entry-inhibiting drugs. Here, we describe recent understandings on the spike glycoprotein (S protein), receptor-binding domain (RBD), and angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) and their receptor complex. This report also aims to review recently established diagnostic technologies and developments in surveillance measures for SARS-CoV-2 as well as the characteristics and performance of emerging techniques. Smartphone apps for contact tracing can help nations to conduct surveillance measures before a vaccine and effective medicines become available. We also describe promising point-of-care (POC) diagnostic technologies that are under consideration by researchers for advancement beyond the proof-of-concept stage. Developing novel diagnostic techniques needs to be facilitated to establish automatic systems, without any personal involvement or arrangement to curb an existing SARS-CoV-2 epidemic crisis, and could also be appropriate for avoiding the emergence of a future epidemic crisis.

Chemical composition and synergistic effect of three Moroccan lavender EOs with ciprofloxacin against foodborne bacteria: a promising approach to modulate antimicrobial resistance

The aim of this study was to determine the chemical profile of the essential oils (EOs) of three Moroccan lavender species (Lavandula pedunculata, LP; Lavandula angustifolia, LA; and Lavandula maroccana, LM) and to investigate, for the first time, the synergistic effect of the optimal mixture of the EOs with conventional antibiotic ciprofloxacin against three pathogenic foodborne bacteria. Gas chromatography/mass spectrometry analysis showed that eucalyptol (39·05%), camphor (24·21%) and borneol (8·29%) were the dominant compounds of LA-EO. LP-EO was characterized by the abundance of camphor (74·51%) and fenchone (27·06%), whereas carvacrol (42·08%), camphor (17·95%) and fenchone (12·05%) were the main constituents of LM-EO. EOs alone or combined showed a remarkable antimicrobial activity against the tested bacteria with minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) ranging from 3·53 to 15·96 mg ml^-1 . The optimal mixture, calculated using a mixture design, corresponded to 19% LA, 38% LP and 43% LM. All combination of the EOs and the best EO mixture with ciprofloxacin exhibited a total synergism with fractional inhibitory concentration index values ranging from 0·27 to 0·37. The best EO mixture showed the highest gain of 128-fold, especially against Salmonella spp., more than that found testing the EOs separately. These findings should be taken into consideration for a possible application in the pharmaceutical and food industries.

The aqueous dependent sensing of hydrazine and phosphate anions using a bis-heteroleptic Ru(II) complex with a phthalimide-anchored pyridine-triazole ligand

Selective turn-on luminescence properties are shown by a non-luminescent metalloreceptor upon the addition of phosphate anions in CH3CN and hydrazine in CH3CN/H2O (6/4, v/v). The non-luminescent metalloreceptors [RuII(phen)2(TpH)]2PF6- (RtpH) and [RuII(Phen)2(TpI)]2PF6- (RtpI) {phen = 1,10-phenanthroline; TpH = 2-(2-(4-(pyridin-2-yl)-1H-1,2,3-triazol-1-yl)ethyl)isoindoline-1,3-dione; and TpI = 2-(2-(5-iodo-4-(pyridin-2-yl)-1H-1,2,3-triazol-1-yl)ethyl)isoindoline-1,3-dione} were synthesized and characterized. Both metalloreceptors have excellent sensing properties for phosphate anions (H2PO4- and H2P2O72-) over other anions in CH3CN. The limit of detection (LOD) values were calculated to be 79 nM and 48 nM for H2PO4- upon addition to RtpH and RtpI, respectively. Noncovalent interactions play a key role in the sensing of phosphate anions, among which the halogen-anion interaction showed superior recognition properties over the hydrogen-anion interaction. Comparative electrochemical experiments, 1H NMR titration, 31P NMR titration, and lifetime studies also show that RtpI has better sensing properties, as evidenced by its more drastic emission response to H2PO4- anions compared with RtpH. Moreover, the metalloreceptors showed a remarkable fluorescence increase (at ∼584 nm) upon the addition of hydrazine, without the interference of other amines in CH3CN/H2O (6/4, v/v). Interestingly, fluorescence enhancement was observed within live HeLa cells upon hydrazine addition, which is caused by the efficient photoinduced electron transfer process.

Evaluation of Annona muricata Acetogenins as Potential Anti-SARS-CoV-2 Agents Through Computational Approaches

Annona muricata, a tropical plant which has been extensively used in ethnomedicine to treat a wide range of diseases, from malaria to cancer. Interestingly, this plant has been reported to demonstrate significant antiviral properties against the human immunodeficiency virus, herpes simplex virus, human papilloma virus, hepatitis C virus and dengue virus. Additionally, the bioactive compounds responsible for antiviral efficacy have also shown to be selectively cytotoxic while inhibiting tumorigenic cell growth without affecting the normal cell growth. Annonaceous Acetogenins are a class of bioactive compounds exclusive to the Annonaceae family at which the plant A. muricata belongs. In the current study, we have created a library of Acetogenins unique to the plant, comprising of Annomuricin A, Annomuricin B, Annomuricin C, Muricatocin C, Muricatacin, cis-Annonacin, Annonacin-10-one, cis-Goniothalamicin, Arianacin and Javoricin, for in silico and theoretical evaluations against the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein in an attempt toward promotion of plant based drug development for the current pandemic of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). We found that all the Acetogenins showing in silico spike protein significantly docking with good binding affinities. Moreover, we envision A. muricata Acetogenins can be further studied by in vitro and in vivo models to identify potential anti-SARS-CoV-2 agents.

Development of an electrochemical enzyme-free glucose sensor based on self-assembled Pt-Pd bimetallic nanosuperlattices

The huge demand for the clinical diagnosis of diabetes mellitus has prompted the development of great-performance sensing platforms for glucose detection. Non-enzymatic glucose sensors are getting closer to their use in realistic applications. In this work, polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP)-conjugated bimetallic Pt-Pd nanosuperlattices were synthesized precisely through a simple synthesis procedure, leading to controllable spherical morphologies with significantly fine and precise nanostructures in a size range of ∼3-5 nm by the reduction of Pt and Pd precursors in ethylene glycol, using an ultrasonic method. High-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) measurements evidenced the formation of Pt-Pd bimetallic nanosuperlattices (BMNSLs). The superlattice-fringe patterns (111) of bimetallic Pt-Pd NSLs were identified in the HRTEM images, clearly showing their crystalline nature. The prepared material was used in the electrochemical oxidation of glucose using voltammetry analyses. The experimental evidence indicates that the Pt-Pd BMNSL modified glassy carbon electrode is effective for the selective amperometric detection of glucose in the presence of galactose, sucrose, fructose, lactose, and ascorbic acid. Moreover, its application in the detection of glucose in real serum and urine samples was assessed and good recoveries are achieved. The results show that a Pt-Pd bimetallic nanosuperlattice with high surface area, catalytic activity, and superior selectivity could be a promising material in the generation of novel electrodes for low-cost non-enzymatic glucose sensors.

A potent multifunctional MnS/Ag-polyvinylpyrrolidone nanocomposite for enhanced detection of Hg2+ from aqueous samples and its photocatalytic and antibacterial applications

The development of nanotechnology for hazardous heavy metal detection with nanoparticles (NPs) created an interest for the preparation of MnS/Ag nanocomposite. Here, MnS/Ag-polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) nanocomposite was developed for the detection of mercury. The prepared composite was analyzed using particle size analyzer, X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), Ultraviolet-visible (UV-vis) spectroscopy, zetasizer, high resolution transmission electron microscope (HRTEM) and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The λ_max of MnS/Ag-PVP nanocomposite was observed at 404 nm. The particle size was determined to be 21 ± 1.7 nm and the surface charge was -31.19 ± 3 mV. The brownish yellow colour of the nanocomposite changed into colourless when Hg²⁺ was added. The different metal ions present with the analyte did not show any interference on detection of Hg²⁺. The MnS/Ag-PVP nanocomposite incorporated paper and gel exhibited visual detection of Hg²⁺ from aqueous sample. There was an excellent linearity (y = -0.0015x + 0.8744) found in plot of 20 to 100 nM Hg²⁺ concentrations versus absorbance at 404 nm and the LOD was calculated to be 16 nM. The probe was applied to quantify Hg²⁺ from spiked environmental sample and the results were further confirmed with atomic absorption spectrophotometric analysis. Hence, the investigation suggests that the present probe could efficiently detect and quantify Hg²⁺ at nano molar level. In addition, the study suggests that MnS/Ag-PVP nanocomposite exhibit multifunctional property including efficient photocatalytic and antimicrobial activity. The antibacterial activity was evaluated against both gram positive and gram negative bacteria.

In silico evaluation of flavonoids as effective antiviral agents on the spike glycoprotein of SARS-CoV-2

The novel coronavirus pandemic has spread over in 213 countries as of July 2020. Approximately 12 million people have been infected so far according to the reports from World Health Organization (WHO). Preventive measures are being taken globally to avoid the rapid spread of virus. In the current study, an in silico approach is carried out as a means of inhibiting the spike protein of the novel coronavirus by flavonoids from natural sources that possess both antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties. The methodology is focused on molecular docking of 10 flavonoid compounds that are docked with the spike protein of SARS-CoV-2, to determine the highest binding affinity at the binding site. Molecular dynamics simulation was carried out with the flavonoid-protein complex showing the highest binding affinity and highest interactions. The flavonoid naringin showed the least binding energy of -9.8 Kcal/mol with the spike protein which was compared with the standard drug, dexamethasone which is being repurposed to treat critically ill patients. MD simulation was carried out on naringin-spike protein complex for their conformational stability in the active site of the novel coronavirus spike protein. The RMSD of the complex appeared to be more stable when compared to that of the protein from 0.2 nm to 0.4 nm. With the aid of this in silico approach further in vitro studies can be carried out on these flavonoids against the novel coronavirus as a means of viral protein inhibitors.

Vinpocetine ameliorates L-arginine induced acute pancreatitis via Sirt1/Nrf2/TNF pathway and inhibition of oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis

OBJECTIVES

Acute pancreatitis (AP) is a common severe critical illness with a high mortality rate. We aimed to study the effect of vinpocetine (Vinpo) in the treatment of AP because of its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antiapoptotic effects.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Thirty two adult male albino Wistar rats were randomized to four groups: control group, Vinpo group (20 mg/kg.P.O.), l-arginine group (two intraperitoneal injections of l-arginine 2.5 g/kg, 1 h apart), and Vinpo + L-arginine group. Vinpo administration was once daily for 7 consecutive days and started 1 h later after l-arginine administration. We measured serum enzyme biomarkers (lipase and amylase), levels of pancreatic malondialdehyde (MDA), total antioxidant capacity (TAC), reduced glutathione (GSH), total sulfhydryl (T-SH), total nitrite/nitrate (NOx), Interluken-6 (IL-6), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), Nuclear factor (erythroid-derived 2)-like 2 (Nrf2), Sirtuin type 1 (Sirt1), and caspase-3 activity. Furthermore; histological changes, anti-insulin, and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) immuno-expressions were examined.

RESULTS

l-arginine group displayed AP as manifested by a significant increase in serum lipase and amylase, MDA, NOx, IL-6, TNF-α, caspase-3 with iNOS immuno-expression. Histological changes indicating marked pancreatic injury were observed together with a significant decrease in TAC, GSH, T-SH, Nrf2, Sirt1 levels, and anti-insulin immuno-expression. Vinpo showed a significant amelioration in all parameters.

CONCLUSION

Vinpo possesses potent ameliorative effects against AP by decreasing oxidative stress, inflammatory process, and apoptosis through regulation of the Sirt1/Nrf2/TNF-α pathway.

Molecular epidemiology of anaplasmosis in small ruminants along a human-livestock-wildlife interface in Uganda

Background

Information as regards the epidemiology of the Anaplasmataceae in small ruminants in several low- and middle-income countries is scarce.

Methods

In this study a total of 712 DNA samples collected from small ruminants were analyzed for Anaplasmataceae and Anaplasma ovis using the 16S rRNA and MSP4 genes respectively. Infection risk was assessed by location, sex and age of the animals and qGIS® was used to construct spatial maps.

Results

The prevalence of Anaplasmataceae spp was 89.1% (95% CI: 77.5–95.9) and 79.1% (95% CI: 75.9–82.1) in ovines and caprines respectively (RR = 1.1, 95% CI: 1.0–1.3); higher than those previously reported in other eastern African countries. The prevalence of A. ovis was 26.1% and 25.4% for both ovines and caprines respectively with ovines showing significantly higher levels of infection than caprines (P < 0.05). The risk of Anaplasma ovis infections was not affected by age (OR = 1.2, 95% CI: 0.9–1.7) or sex (OR = 1.1, 95% CI: 0.6–2.0). Small ruminants located at the forest edge (<0.3 km) showed higher A. ovis prevalence than those found inland with infections present in the midland regions associated with increased agricultural activity.

Conclusion

Anaplasma ovis remains a major challenge for small ruminant husbandry in Uganda and infections are under-reported. Policy efforts to prioritize management of Anaplasmataceae for small ruminant health would promote livestock productivity in vulnerable communities, improving livelihoods and ecosystem health.

Highly selective and sensitive tool for the detection of Hg(II) using 3-(Trimethoxysilyl) propyl methacrylate functionalized Ag-Ce nanocomposite from real water sample

Mercury and its derivates cause distinct toxicity and it is detrimental to the ecosystem where the excessive concentration contributes towards the environmental pollutants. The current study reported a colorimetric method for the detection of Hg(II) ion with high specificity and selectivity using Ag-Ce nanocomposite (NC) functionalized by 3-(Trimethoxysilyl) propyl methacrylate. The synthesized Ag-Ce NC was characterized by using double beam UV-visible spectrophotometer, zeta sizer, EDS, TEM, FT-IR, XRD and particle size analyzer. The synthesized particle possessed an average particle size of 27 ± 1 nm and zeta potential of -39.32 ± 3 mV. The brownish yellow colored Ag-Ce NC changed to colorless in presence of Hg(II) where the colorimetric detection was extremely specific and superior towards Hg(II) ion on comparing the tests with other metal ions. An excellent linear correlation was observed between absorbance (395 nm) and Hg(II) concentrations (1 nM-10 μM) (R² = 0.988) with LOD of 0.03 nM. A cotton swab based probe was prepared for selective, elegant and low cost colorimetric method to detect Hg(II). The parametric study was performed for optimizing the suitable condition. The colorimetric probe developed by this study for Hg(II) detection using Ag-Ce NC shows excellent practical applicability.

In-vitro Antimicrobial Activity of Essential Oils and Spices Powder of some Medicinal Plants Against Bacillus Species Isolated from Raw and Processed Meat

Background and Aim

Bacillus species are widely distributed microorganisms in nature that are responsible for outbreaks of food poisoning and a common cause of food spoilage. This study aimed to isolate and identify foodborne Bacillus species from meat and to determine the antimicrobial activities of commercial essential oils and spices powder extracted from certain medicinal plants.

Methods

Sixty meat samples were collected in Assiut city and subdivided into raw meat and processed meat. Bacillus spp were isolated and identified according to their cultural characters, biochemical reactions, serological typing, and 16S rRNA gene sequencing. The antibacterial activity of essential oils and spices powder was measured by using well-diffusion and microbial count techniques.

Results

The prevalence of Bacillus spp. in the examined raw meat samples and processed meat samples was 13.34%, and 26.67%, respectively. There was a marked decrease in the total Bacillus species count after treatment of minced beef with essential oils and spices powder compared to the untreated one. Black seed oil was the most potent antibacterial essential oil among the tested oils present in this study.

Conclusion

Essential oils and spices powder of certain medicinal plants (cumin: Cuminum cyminum, black seeds: Nigella sativa, cloves: Syzygium aromaicum, cinnamon: Cinnamomum zeylanicum, and Marjoram: Origanum majorana) have a potential in vitro antimicrobial activity against Bacillus spp. Furthermore, Nigella sativa oil exhibited the most potent antibacterial activity against Bacillus spp.

Selected 1,3-Benzodioxine-Containing Chalcones as Multipotent Oxidase and Acetylcholinesterase Inhibitors

Chalcones are considered effective templates for the development of monoamine oxidase (MAO) and cholinesterase (ChE) inhibitors. The present work describes the syntheses of selected 1,3-benzodioxine-containing chalcones (CD3, CD8 and CD10), and their inhibitory activities against MAO-A, MAO-B, acetylcholinesterase (AChE), and butyrylcholinesterase (BChE). Compound CD8 most potently inhibited MAO-B with an IC₅₀ value of 0.026 μM, followed by CD10 and CD3 (1.54 and 1.68 μM, respectively). CD8 potently and non-selectively inhibited MAO-A (IC₅₀ value of 0.023 μM). On the other hand, CD10 and CD8 inhibited AChE with IC₅₀ values of 5.40 and 9.57 μM, respectively. Kinetics and reversibility experiments showed that all synthesized molecules were competitive and reversible inhibitors, and the K_i values of CD8 for MAO-A and MAO-B were 0.018 and 0.0019 μM, respectively. By in vitro and in silico analyses, all compounds were found to have high passive human gastrointestinal absorptions, blood-brain barrier permeabilities, and non-toxicities. Molecular docking simulations revealed that docking affinity of each compound for MAO-B was higher than that for MAO-A. The results indicate that CD8 is a potent non-selective MAO inhibitor, and CD10 is an effective selective MAO-B inhibitor, and both possess AChE inhibitory activity. Therefore, we suggest that CD8 and CD10 be considered potential dual-targeting inhibitors of MAO and AChE for the treatment of various neurodegenerative disorders.

Ganoderma Lucidum from Red Mushroom Attenuates Formaldehyde-Induced Liver Damage in Experimental Male Rat Model

The majority of liver-related illnesses are caused by occupational and domestic exposure to toxic chemicals like formaldehyde (FA), which is widely common in Africa and the world at large. Hence, measures should be taken to protect humans from its hazardous effects. This study, therefore, examines the protective potential of Ganoderma lucidum (100 mg/kg body weight) on formaldehyde-induced (40%) liver oxido-inflammation in male rats. Male Wistar rats, 150-200 g, were allotted into four groups of 10 animals as follows: Group 1 was orally treated with 1 mg/mL distilled water, Group 2 was exposed to a 40% formaldehyde vapor environment for 30 min per day, Group 3 was orally treated with 100 mg/kg ethanol extract of Ganoderma lucidum, and Group 4 was co-administered formaldehyde and 100 mg/kg ethanol extract of Ganoderma lucidum. Rats were then sacrificed 24 h after administering the last dose of treatment, and the livers were excised. Ganoderma lucidum significantly reversed the formaldehyde-mediated reduction in body and organ weight. Ganoderma lucidum administration significantly prevented oxido-inflammation by reducing the levels of hydrogen peroxide and malondialdehyde and increasing the activity of antioxidant enzymes and glutathione contents, as well as the normal level of nitrite and myeloperoxidase production in FA-treated rats. Additionally, Ganoderma lucidum reversed a large decline in proinflammatory markers in formaldehyde. Furthermore, Ganoderma lucidum restores formaldehyde-induced histological alterations in the liver. Collectively, our results provide valuable information on the protective potential of Ganoderma lucidum in protecting formaldehyde-induced liver oxido-inflammation in male rats.

Characterization of Neopestalotiopsis Species Associated with Mango Grey Leaf Spot Disease in Sinaloa, Mexico

Mango is one of the most popular and nutritious fruits in the world and Mexico is the world’s largest exporter. There are many diseases that directly affect fruit yield and quality. During the period 2016–2017, leaves with grey leaf spots were collected from 28 commercial mango orchards distributed in two main production areas in Sinaloa State of Mexico, and 50 Neopestalotiopsis isolates were obtained. Fungal identification of 20 representative isolates was performed using morphological characterization and phylogenetic analysis based on the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region of ribosomal DNA, part of the translation elongation factor 1-alpha (TEF) and the β-tubulin (TUB) genes. Phylogenetic analysis indicated that the 20 isolates from this study formed four consistent groups, however, overall tree topologies do not consistently provide a stable and sufficient resolution. Therefore, even though morphological and phylogenetic separation is evident, these isolates were not assigned to any new taxa and were tentatively placed into four clades (clades A–D). Pathogenicity tests on detached mango leaves of cv. Kent showed that the 20 isolates that belong to the four Neopestalotiopsis clades from this study and induce lesions on mango leaves. This is the first report of species of Neopestalotiopsis causing mango grey leaf spot disease in Mexico.

Antimicrobial and synergistic effect of Moroccan native Argania spinosa essential oil for modulating of antibiotics resistance

In this study, the chemical composition and antimicrobial activity of the essential oil (EO) extracted from leaves of the Moroccan endemic plant Argania spinosa were investigated for the first time, to the best of our knowledge. In addition, the EO antimicrobial activity was evaluated in combination with two known antibiotics (ciprofloxacin and fluconazole), in order to ascertain possible synergistic effects. The chemical composition analyzed by GC/MS showed that A. spinosa EO was characterised by the abundance of geranyl acetate (19.18%), methyleugenol (10.98%), linalyl acetate (10.59%) and eucalyptol (8.49%), and monoterpene hydrocarbons was the major class. EO showed an antimicrobial potential against all tested microorganisms. The highest activity was recorded against Gram positive bacteria and yeasts with MICs ranging from 7.75 to 15.5 mg/mL and from 3.88 to 7.75 mg/mL, respectively. The Gram negative bacteria were the most resistant with MICs of 31 mg/mL. The mixture of EO at sub-inhibitory concentrations with conventional drugs exhibited a significant decrease in their individual MICs from 4 to 32 fold. The highest level of synergy was observed for ciprofloxacin against Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus subtilis and Escherichia coli. Despite the antimicrobial activity of A. spinosa EO is weak, the results of the current study suggest a potential synergy between EO and antibiotics in the goal to modulate drug resistance.

Exogenous melatonin mitigates boron toxicity in wheat

Boron (B) toxicity is an important abiotic constraint that limits crop productivity mainly in arid and semi-arid areas of the world. High levels of B in soil disturbs several physiological and biochemical processes in plant. The aim of this study was to investigate the function of melatonin (Mel) in the regulation of carbohydrate and proline (Pro) metabolism, photosynthesis process and antioxidant system of wheat seedlings under B toxicity conditions. High levels of B inhibited net photosynthetic rate (P_N), stomatal conductance (g_s), content of chlorophyll (Chl) a, b, δ-aminolevulinic acid (δ-ALA), nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P), and increased accumulation of B, Chl degradation and activity of chlorophyllase (Chlase; a Chl degrading enzyme), and downregulated the activity of enzymes (δ-ALAD; δ-aminolevulinic acid dehydratase) involved in the biosynthesis of photosynthesis pigments, photosynthesis (carbonic anhydrase and ribulose-1,5-bisphosphate carboxylase/oxygenase) and carbohydrate metabolism (cell wall invertase, CWI) in wheat seedlings. Also, high levels of B caused oxidative damage by increasing the content of malondialdehyde, superoxide anion and H₂O₂, and activity of glycolate oxidase (an H₂O₂-producing enzyme) in leaves of seedlings. However, foliar application of Mel significantly improved photosynthetic pigments concentration by increasing δ-ALA, δ-ALAD and decreasing Chl degradation and Chlase activity and led to an increase of plant growth attributes under both B toxicity and non-toxicity conditions. Under normal and B toxicity conditions, exogenous Mel also improved content of N, P, total soluble carbohydrates (TSCs) and Pro, and upregulated activity of CWI and Δ¹-pyrroline-5-carboxylate synthetase. Mel significantly suppressed the adverse effects of excess B by alleviating cellular oxidative damage through enhanced reactive oxygen species scavenging by superoxide dismutase, catalase, ascorbate peroxidase, glutathione reductase and lipoxygenase, and content of total phenolic compounds (TPC), ascorbate and reduced glutathione. These results postulate that Mel induced plant defense mechanisms by enhancing Pro, TSCs, TPC, nutrients (N and P) uptake and enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidants.

ACC deaminase and antioxidant enzymes producing halophilic Enterobacter sp. PR14 promotes the growth of rice and millets under salinity stress

Rhizobacteria are known to ameliorate salinity stress through a wide variety of mechanisms including the production of aminocyclopropane-1-carboxylate deaminase (ACCD). Application of ACCD positive halophilic rhizobacteria ameliorate soil salinity along with its plant growth promotion activity. An effect of the inoculation of ACCD and antioxidant positive and halophilic Enterobacter sp. PR14 was reported on the seed germination and growth of rice and millet seedlings grown in saline and alkaline soil was evaluated. The rhizobacterial strain grew well over a high level of NaCl (15-90 M); at a wide range of pH (5-9); and produced a wide variety of plant growth-promoting (PGP) traits viz. indole-acetic acid (13 µg mL-1), ACCD (5.20 M mg-1 h-1), phosphate solubilization (0.99 g mL-1) and antioxidant enzymes such as superoxide dismutase (5.143 IU mg-1 protein), catalase (0.43 IU mg-1 protein) and glutathione (19.077 µg mg-1 protein) during log phase (30 h) of its growth. The stress with alkaline pH (9) and high salinity (90 M) caused a further increase in the synthesis of PGP traits, ACCD, and antioxidant enzymes. The combined application of Enterobacter sp. PR14, ammonium sulfate (as a substitute of ACC), and NaCl (30 M) resulted in a further increase in the seed germination and vigor in rice and millets vis-à-vis control and other treatments. After 15 days of growth, 61.72% more seed germination in rice and millet and 63.15% increase in sorghum was recorded over the control, and after 30 days of growth, 99.67%, 30%, and 54%, root length 50%, 30% and 54% shoot length in rice, sorghum and millet were observed respectively. A significant increase of 38.13%, 30.75%, and 16.36% in dry weight of rice, sorghum, and millet shoots was recorded respectively. Enterobacter sp PR 14, showing multiple plant growth-promoting traits has a great potential to be used as an efficient bioinoculant for growth promotion of rice and millets under alkaline and saline conditions.

Pleurotus sajor-caju-Mediated Synthesis of Silver and Gold Nanoparticles Active against Colon Cancer Cell Lines: A New Era of Herbonanoceutics

Herbal medicines are widely used worldwide and much appreciated because of their fewer side effects and the ability to fight diseases at the root cause. Active ‘phyto’ ingredients require a scientific approach and a mechanism to distribute components at the target site for better therapeutic results. Nanotechnology, on the other hand, has created new hope for cancer treatment but is still far from being proven in clinical settings. This article combines a unique approach to synthesis with the use of Pleurotus sajor-caju, followed by microwave irritation of silver and gold nanoparticles that ensures the capping of the active phyto ingredient and further enhances the effects of nanomedicine to fight colon cancer, thus opening a new era of what we call herbonanoceutics. The article also compares the characteristics and properties of silver (Au) and gold (Ag) nanoparticles synthesized by an in house developed novel microwave-assisted rapid green synthesis method. The as-prepared Ag NPs and Au NPs were compared using ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy (UV-Vis), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS). Our comparative study revealed that both assemblies display face-centred cubic structures (FCCs) and are nanocrystalline in nature. The advantage of the approach was that the sizes of gold and silver were identical in range with a similar distribution pattern. This has helped us to study the activity against colon cancer cell line (HCT-116) without incoherence since size plays a key role in the application. More specifically, morphological changes, cell viability, the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and the fragmentation of DNA have been further reported to assess better the results obtained with the two metals. Our results suggest that the newly adopted synthesis method may ensure the dual benefits from phyto ingredients which further enhances the effectiveness of advanced nanomedicine.

Rapid colorimetric detection of mercury using silver nanoparticles in the presence of methionine

Development of potential sensors is inevitable for the detection of environmental pollutants including toxins, organic pollutants and heavy metal which cause hazardous effect to human and other living organisms. The present study is to develop silver nanoparticle (Ag NPs) based sensor for the accurate, sensitive and selective colorimetric detection of Hg²⁺ ions from aqueous samples at nano molar level. The nanoparticles were synthesized chemically and it was stabilized by polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP). The prepared particles were characterized by UV-visible spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), particle analysiser and Zetasizer. The UV-visible spectra of Ag NPs showed absorbance maximum at 392 nm. The average diameter of Ag NPs was determined to be 6 ± 0.9 nm by using particle analyzer. The zeta sizer analysis showed that the PVP stabilized Ag NPs possessed a zeta potential of -35.56 ± 3 mV. The Ag NPs-methionine conjugate showed the colour change from the brownish yellow colour to colourless when it was reacted with mercury. The Ag NPs conjugated methionine is sensitive to mercury and detects the mercury at nano molar level. The influence of other metal ion did not interfere with the detection and quantification of Hg²⁺. The detection of Hg²⁺ was also performed with paper strip and agarose gel method. The Ag NPs conjugate with methionine can applied for the detection of Hg²⁺ from various aqueous samples.