UV Spectrophotometer Research Articles

Production of Natural Food Colorant with Organic Mordant Solutions and Incorporation into Modern Food Systems

Abstract Colorants are an important exposure that affects the way we feel and judge foods. The food colorant is normally associated with the flavor, safety and nutritional value of the food product. Colorant are obtained from natural plants and minerals. In today’s world, synthetic oxidative food colors are used. It contains a high chemical composition and is derived from petroleum or crude oil. Sunset yellow, carmine, amaranth and azorubine are examples of common synthetic food colors. It leads to some diseases such as asthma, allergy reactions and cancer. Hence, natural food colors were produced from natural plants. The plants contain several pigments, such as betacyanin, anthocyanin and curcumin. The fruit juice of Opuntia ficus-indica, in particularly it contains betacyanin pigments, which can be used as a natural red-purple food colorant. In order to improve the results, we extracted the juice from Opuntia ficus-indica and banana pseudo-stem. Next, we qualitatively analyzed the juice to find out whether flavonoids, triterpenoids, proteins, alkaloids, carbohydrates, saponin, tannin, and phenol was present. Opuntia ficus-indica has antioxidant properties, as does banana pseudostem sap, which has antioxidant, antithrombotic and anti-haemolytic properties. Then analyzed physical parameters of color strength were measured (using a UV spectrophotometer) at 450 nm to determine color strength and that the results were good with pH, viscosity, smell and taste. And toxicity analyses of aflatoxin and ochratoxin shows good results. This colorant has been used successfully in two food systems: ice cream and milkshakes. which is preserved after one month in the refrigerator.

Analytical Method Development by Using UV-Spectrophotometer for Estimation of Valsartan in Bulk

In order to accurately determine valsartan (API), this work aims to build a straightforward and exact UV spectroscopic approach. To improve sensitivity and accuracy, the procedure entails methodically optimizing experimental parameters, including solvent choice and wavelength selection. The produced stock solutions were tested for absorbance at 249 nm using a UV spectrophotometer. With %RSD values below 2% for both intra- and inter-day, the devised approach was determined to be quite accurate. At each additional concentration, the approach was shown to be accurate, yielding good drug recoveries ranging from 98 to 101%. The process was validated for linearity, specificity, accuracy, precision and limit of detection (LoD) and limit of quantification (LoQ) as per International Council of Harmonization (ICH) criteria. Its dependability for quantitative analysis of valsartan in pharmaceutical formulations was demonstrated. This UV spectroscopic approach offers a cost-effective and efficient alternative for routine quality control in pharmaceutical industries.

The Role of Serum Erythropoietin (EPO) and Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF) in Pulse Wave Velocity (PWV) Among Hypertensive Patients: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Background and objective While hypertension (HTN) is a major health-related threat globally, it is often an under-reported clinical condition as most of the stage I hypertensive patients do not present with any symptoms. The relationship between endogenous oxygen-sensing protein [erythropoietin (EPO) andvascular endothelial growth factor(VEGF)] levels and vascular stress in hypertensive patients is not fully understood as the mechanistic pathway by which these oxygen-sensing proteins alter the vascular physiology and cause hypertension is still a matter of debate. In light of this, we explored the role of these two proteins in the development of vascular stress including increased pulse wave velocity (PWV). We aimed to examine the correlation between oxygen-sensing proteins and vascular stress markers including PWV in hypertensive patients. Materials and methods We conducted a cross-sectional study involving age-matched participants classified into three groups (group 1: normotensive persons, n=36; group 2: stage I hypertensive patients, n=36; and group 3, stage II hypertensive patients, n=36). Adiposity-related parameters such as waist circumference (WC), hip circumference (HC), BMI, and waist-hip ratio (WHR) were measured. BPwas recorded manually in resting posture by using a sphygmomanometer. PWV, which predicts the progression of BP and the development of HTN, was recorded using a periscope, which works based on the oscillometric method. Vascular stress-induced oxidative stress parameters [serummalondialdehyde(MDA)and serumnitric oxide(NO)] were also estimated by using a UV spectrophotometer. Quantitative estimations of oxygen-sensing proteins (serum EPO and serum VEGF) were done by using the ELISA kit method. The results were expressed as mean ± standard deviation (SD). The correlation between the variables was done using Spearman's correlation. A p-value <0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results Adiposity indices and vascular stiffness parameters were found to be significantly (p <0.05) increased in group 2 and group 3 compared to group 1. The levels of serum MDA were found to be significantly (p<0.05) increased in group 2 and group 3 than group 1, whereasthe levels of serum NO were significantly (p<0.05) decreased in group 3 and group 2 than group 1. A significant (p<0.05) positive correlation was observed between the PWV and EPO (r=0.492) while a significant (p<0.05) negative correlation was observed between PWV and VEGF(r=-0.406) among thestudy population. Conclusion The results are indicative of the influence of vascular stress in stage I and II hypertensive patients. Furthermore, the relationship between oxygen-sensing proteins and vascular stress in hypertensive patients has also been established.

Therapeutic use of biologically produced sulfur nanoparticles from Allium fistulosum against antibiotic-resistant foodborne pathogens

Abstract. Saddiqua A, Ullah S, Khan MS, Rehman S, Abubakar AA, Safdar K, Ali S, Javaria S, Kanwal A, Batool SN, Bhatti F, Sucipto TH, Ansori ANM. 2024. Therapeutic use of biologically produced sulfur nanoparticles from Allium fistulosum against antibiotic-resistant foodborne pathogens. Biodiversitas 25: 2348-2354. Food spoilage is a significant issue since foodborne illnesses affect millionsworldwide. The main root cause of food spoilage is the presence of microbes, some of which show resistance to commercially available antibiotic drugs. Therefore, it is essential to search for fresh and effective antibacterial medications. Nanotechnology can give solutions to fight against foodborne pathogens. Sulfur nanoparticles show many beneficial and effective results as antimicrobial agents. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of biologically synthesized sulfur nanoparticles from Allium fistulosum to inhibit antibiotic-resistant foodborne pathogens. The green synthesis of sulfur nanoparticles was done by combining plant leaf extract with sodium sulfide. This study used the plant Allium fistulosum to make sulfur nanoparticles. The characterization of SNPs was done through a scanning electron microscope, UV spectrophotometer, fourier transform infrared spectrometer, and nanoparticle tracking analysis. Then, the antimicrobial properties of the bioengineered sulfur-based nanoparticles against foodborne pathogens were checked alone and in combination with market-available antibacterial agents. Aspergillus flavus and Salmonella typhi were among the foodborne pathogens against which SNPs' in-vitro antibacterial activity was tested. Sulfur nanoparticles from Allium fistulosum had 291 nm absorption spectra showing to be almost 100 nm in size and had a spherical shape. The strongest antibacterial efficacy against S. typhi was observed by SNPs (24 mm). Synergistic antibacterial action was seen when nanoparticles were combined with antibiotics of commercial importance. A noticeable antifungal effect against A. flavus was observed by combining SNPs with amphotericin B. The findings of in vitro studies prove that novely designed sulfur nanoparticle have profound impacts on microorganisms. It was also observed that the effect of antibiotics like ampicillin and amphotericin B was enhanced when coupled with nanoparticles.

Investigation of Permeability Against Some Metals with a Functional Thiophene Based Polymeric Membrane Sensor

AbstractThere are many advantages of using membranes in the separation of wastewater, but their uses are limited because they are not reusable due to blockages in the membrane. In this study, alginate‐based poly(ethyl‐methacrylate) (PEMA) polymeric membranes containing previously synthesized IOS, which are known to be selective against Fe3+, were prepared and their permeability against heavy metals such as Cd2+, Co2+, Cu2+, Fe3+, Hg2+ and Pb2+ were investigated. The properties of membranes characterized by UV‐Vis and FT‐IR spectrophotometry, were investigated with analysis techniques such as SEM, contact angle measurements, TG‐DTG, DSC and AFM. As a result of the measurements taken from the UV spectrophotometer of the filtrates passed through various aqueous ion solutions of the membranes as mentioned above, it was concluded that the ion to which the membrane was most selective was the Fe3+ ion. Moreover, it could be said that thanks to the repeated filtration processes the membrane prepared retained some Fe3+ ion in each measurement and could be used many times in the filtration process. Resultantly, it is possible to say that the polymeric Fe3+ membrane sensor produced may be suitable for use when it is necessary to remove Fe3+ ion from a polluted aqueous environment.

Design and Characterization of Chitosan-Based Smart Injectable Hydrogel for Improved Sustained Release of Antinarcotics.

The treatment adherence of narcotics-addicted individuals with reduced incidences of relapse can be enhanced by a sustained drug release formulation of antinarcotics. So far, different drug formulations have been reported with sustained drug release periods of 28 and 35 days. To further enhance this duration, different formulations of injectable hydrogels (IHs) have been developed by combining low molecular weight (LMW) and high molecular weight (HMW) chitosan (CS) with guar gum (GG) and crosslinking them by sodium bi phosphate dibasic. The structural, morphological, and physicochemical properties of LMW-CS IH, and HMW-CS IH were evaluated using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), thermo-gravimetric analysis (TGA), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and rheological, swelling, and biodegradation analysis. The HMW-CS IH showed high crosslinking, increased thermal stability, high mechanical strength, elevated swelling, and low biodegradation. The antinarcotic drugs naltrexone (NTX) and disulfiram (DSF) were loaded separately into the HMW-CS IH and LMW-CS IH. The release of NTX and DSF was investigated in phosphate buffer saline (PBS) and ethanol (0.3%, 0.4%, and 0.5%) over a 56-day period using an UV spectrophotometer. The drug release data were tested in zero-order, first-order, and Korsemeyer-Peppas mathematical models. In PBS, all prepared formulations followed non-Fickian drug release, while in ethanol, only NTX HMW-CS IH followed non-Fickian release in all three different concentrations of ethanol.

A synthetic bioactive peptide of the C-terminal fragment of adhesion protein Fibulin7 attenuates the inflammatory functions of innate immune cells in LPS-induced systemic inflammation.

Systemic inflammation is associated with improper localization of hyperactive neutrophils and monocytes in visceral organs. Previously, a C-terminal fragment of adhesion protein Fibulin7 (Fbln7-C) was shown to regulate innate immune functionality during inflammation. Recently, a shorter bioactive peptide of Fbln7-C, FC-10, via integrin binding was shown to reduce ocular angiogenesis. However, the role of FC-10 in regulating the neutrophils and monocyte functionality during systemic inflammatory conditions is unknown. The study sought to explore the role of FC-10 peptide on the functionality of innate immune cells during inflammation and endotoxemic mice. Neutrophils and monocytes were isolated from healthy donors and septic patient clinical samples and Cell adhesion assay was performed using a UV spectrophotometer. Gene expression studies were performed using qPCR. Protein level expression was measured using ELISA and flow cytometry. ROS assay, and activation markers analysis in vitro, and in vivo were done using flow cytometry. Cells were stimulated with LPS (100ng/mL) and studied in the presence of peptides (10μg, and 20μg/mL) in vitro. In an in vivo study, mice were administered with LPS (36.8mg/kg bw) and peptide (20μg). This study demonstrates that human neutrophils and monocytes adhere to FC-10 via integrin β1, inhibit spreading, ROS, surface activation markers (CD44, CD69), phosphorylated Src kinase, pro-inflammatory genes, and protein expression, compared to scrambled peptide in cells isolated from healthy donors and clinical sample. In line with the in vitro data, FC-10 (20μg) administration significantly decreases innate cell infiltration at inflammatory sites, improves survival in endotoxemia animals & reduces the inflammatory properties of neutrophils and monocytes isolated from septic patients. FC-10 peptide can regulate neutrophils and monocyte functions and has potential to be used as an immunomodulatory therapeutic in inflammatory diseases.

DEVELOPMENT OF AN ACCURATE UV SPECTROSCOPIC METHOD FOR TINIDAZOLE IN VAGINAL BUFFERS

A precise UV spectroscopic method was developed for accurately quantifying tinidazole (TNZ) using the Shimadzu 1900i UV spectrophotometer. Different sample solutions containing TNZ were scanned across a range of concentration 6 µg mL-1 to 26 µg mL-1 between 200-400 nm, generating overlay TNZ spectra showing an absorption maximum at 318nm in vaginal buffer which is made up of phosphate buffer (PB) 4.2 pH with 2% Tween 80® LR and 4 mL of methanol. The construction of a six-point calibration curve demonstrated the linearity of TNZ within the 6-26 µg mL-1 concentration range. The regression equation derived from this calibration curve was subsequently employed to accurately determine the concentration in accuracy studies. In the analysis of bulk TNZ, a recovery rate ranging from 98.41% to 102.28% was achieved. The analysis results were validated following ICH (International Council on Harmonization) guidelines and compiled with the required criteria and standards

A new strategy for the treatment of middle ear infection using ciprofloxacin/amoxicillin-loaded ethyl cellulose/polyhydroxybutyrate nanofibers

A middle ear infection occurs due to the presence of several microorganisms behind the eardrum (tympanic membrane) and is very challenging to treat due to its unique location and requires a well-designed treatment. If not treated properly, the infection can result in severe symptoms and unavoidable side effects. In this study, excellent biocompatible ethyl cellulose (EC) and biodegradable polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB) biopolymer were used to fabricate drug-loaded nanofiber scaffolds using an electrospinning technique to overcome antibiotic overdose and insufficient efficacy of drug release during treatment. PHB polymer was produced from Halomonas sp., and the purity of PHB was found to around be 90 %. Additionally, ciprofloxacin (CIP) and amoxicillin (AMX) are highly preferable since both drugs are highly effective against gram-negative and gram-positive bacteria to treat several infections. Obtained smooth nanofibers were between 116.24 and 171.82 nm in diameter and the addition of PHB polymer and antibiotics improved the morphology of the nanofiber scaffolds. Thermal properties of the nanofiber scaffolds were tested and the highest Tg temperature resulted at 229 °C. The mechanical properties of the scaffolds were tested, and the highest tensile strength resulted in 4.65 ± 6.33 MPa. Also, drug-loaded scaffolds were treated against the most common microorganisms that cause the infection, such as S.aureus, E.coli, and P.aeruginosa, and resulted in inhibition zones between 10 and 21 mm. MTT assay was performed by culturing human adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (hAD MSCs) on the scaffolds. The morphology of the hAD MSCs' attachment was tested with SEM analysis and hAD MSCs were able to attach, spread, and live on each scaffold even on the day of 7. The cumulative drug release kinetics of CIP and AMX from drug-loaded scaffolds were analysed in phosphate-buffered saline (pH: 7.4) within different time intervals of up to 14 days using a UV spectrophotometer. Furthermore, the drug release showed that the First-Order and Korsmeyer-Peppas models were the most suitable kinetic models. Animal testing was performed on SD rats, matrix and collagen deposition occurred on days 5 and 10, which were observed using Hematoxylin-eosin and Masson's trichrome staining. At the highest drug concentration, a better repair effect was observed. Results were promising and showed potential for novel treatment.

NPK Biofertilizer Production from Banana Peel, Feather and Bone Ashes and their Comparative Advantage to 20:10:10 Inorganic Fertilizer

The possibility of formulating nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium (NPK) biofertilizer from ashes of waste organic materials such as chicken feathers, bone and banana peels is investigated in this study by first subjecting the agricultural waste to 80-250 heat in a muffle furnace to produce ash. Kjeldatherm block digestion unit, UV spectrophotometer, and flame photometers, respectively helped in measuring the concentrations of N, P and K inherent in the fertilizer precursors as well as in 5 formulated blends (i.e., A, B, C, D &amp; E). It was discovered that NPK in the single substrate and blends favorably compared with standard NPK 20:10:10 chemical fertilizer to some extent. Among single material fertilizer sources, feather ash with 0.179:1:0.134 NPK and bone ash with 0.009:1:0.021 NPK had the closest nutrient content with the standard, showing potential promise. On the other hand, Blend E is the same as the standard, followed by Blend A, B, D and C, which are hierarchically close in elemental composition to the standard. The choice of these biofertilizers is dependent on their nutrient compositions, the type of crops to be grown, and the soil mineral requirements. Most importantly, different NPK ratio organic fertilizers produced in this study can competitively be produced in a large scale to address huge costs associated with the NPK 20:10:10 standard commercial fertilizer. Blend E (NPK 20:10:10) can be formulated locally by farmers in rural areas easily using this particular agricultural residue or a host of other confirmed farm wastes.

Bi-layered oil encapsulates formed by polydopamine-supported in situ complex coacervation: Investigation of structure formation and sustained release performance

In polydopamine (PDA)-supported in situ complex coacervation, PDA is pre-coated onto emulsion droplets, and further applied as an interlayer to support the interfacial immobilization of coacervates biopolymers. In the current research, the stepwise immobilization of gelatin (GE) and gum Arabic (GA) onto PDA layer is monitored to in-depth investigate the mechanism of PDA layer as coating material and functional substrates. GE and GA were applied as adsorbates, with different forms of PDA (spherical shell, planar solid, and nanoparticles) as substrates. Real-time observations of the binding steps were performed using quartz crystal monitor with dissipation (QCM-D) and isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC). Meanwhile, using PDA-supported coacervates as encapsulating material, sustained release of essential oil volatiles was also evaluated, either dispersed in detergent solution or freeze dried in open air. The anti-oxidation performance was determined by measuring the absorbance of lipid hydroperoxide using UV spectrophotometer. The results revealed that PDA enabled synergistic immobilization of biopolymers through chemical bonding and adhesive force during the processing of in situ complex coacervation, thus enhanced protection of core compounds with two-stage releasing kinetics and prevented hyperoxidation. Also, PDA-based colloids and substrates also exhibit controllable conformation characteristic, provide a promising prospect as versatile intermediate functional biomaterials for encapsulation.

Differential comparison of degradation efficiencies in urban environmental waters and effluents and with and without nanoparticles

DOM is an important component of water bodies and provides unimaginable vitality to the entire water body. This paper employed a filter configuration method to extract dissolved organic matter and sewage. In the control group, nanoparticles are added to set up a control group. The degradation efficiency of urban water bodies and sewage and their degradation efficiency in the presence or absence of nanoparticles was compared using a UV spectrophotometer and a photochemical reaction meter. By analyzing the degradation efficiency of DOC, we observed that the degradation efficiency of urban water is much higher than that of wastewater, and nanoparticles can increase the reaction rate. This effect is particularly pronounced in pond water, which can provide a reference for the standard of wastewater discharge and urban water management.

Facile fabrication and tunable electronic properties of Azure A chloride/Si heterojunction for photoelectrical application

In this study, the fabrication, structural, and photoelectrical properties of AZACl on Si heterojunction (AZACl/Si HJ) were examined. The morphology of the thin film of AZACl was analyzed using SEM, while XRD studied the crystal structure. The UV spectrophotometer displayed three distinct absorption regions at 194, 260, and 605 nm due to their complex chemical structure. The electrical characteristics of the AZACl/Si HJ were investigated in dark circumstances at various temperatures. The J-V technique was used to derive the diode properties of AZACl/Si HJ. The photoelectric properties of the AZACl/Si HJ, such as photocurrent, sensitivity, and responsivity, were estimated. At - 0.5 V and light irradiance equals 100 mW/cm2, the calculated photocurrent equals 4.76 × 10−5 A/cm2, the sensitivity equals 20, and the responsivity equals 476 × 10−4. These results indicated that the fabricated AZACl/Si HJ exhibits photodiode characteristics.

Facile Synthesis of Silver Nanoparticles From Sustainable Sargassum sp. Seaweed Material and Its Anti-inflammatory Application.

Background Sustainable and environmentally friendly methods of producing nanoparticles are now being investigated by scientists. Because there are so many marine renewable resources, scientists are focusing their attention on studying seagrass, seaweed, mangroves, marine macroalgae, and microalgae. An exciting new frontier in research involves the synthesis ofnanoparticles using extracts from seaweed. Seaweed extracts are utilized to synthesize silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs), which serve as both reducing and stabilizing agents. Seaweed extracts possess bioactive substances like proteins, polysaccharides, and polyphenols that enable them to effectively convert silver (Ag+) ions intoAg NPs.Ag NPs derived fromSargassum seaweed have played an essential role in improving the anti-inflammatory properties of seaweed extracts. This study aimed to investigate thebiosynthesis of Ag NPs fromSargassumseaweed and evaluate their anti-inflammatory properties. Materials and methods About 50 g of seaweed samples were mixed with 100 mL of distilled water and stirred for 24 hours. Additionally, 1.2g of silver nitrate (0.120 M) was dissolvedin 60 mL of distilled water to make a silver (Ag) solution. A 60 mL solution of silver nitrate (AgNO3) was mixed with a 40 mL solution of seaweed extract in water, and the mixture was stirred with a stirrer for 24 hours.A UV spectrophotometer was used to regularly monitor the reduction ofAg+ ions in the solution. Ag NPs were purified using a sequence of centrifugation steps with a duration of 10 minutes at a speed of 2500 revolutions per minute (rpm). To remove moisture from the water-suspended nanoparticles, they were vacuum-dried for 24 hours. Results The synthesis of Ag NPsfrom seaweed extract resulted in a noticeable change in the color of the mixture, which went from pale to brown. The alteration in color signifies the reduction of AgNO3 to Ag+ ions, facilitating the creation of Ag NPs. X-ray diffraction (XRD) measurement verified the remarkable crystallinity of the synthesized Ag NPs. Field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) images indicated a spherical, homogeneous structure. The Ag NPs derived from seaweed exhibited significant anti-inflammatory characteristics. Conclusion Utilizing Sargassum sp. seaweed in the biological synthesis of Ag NPs shows promiseto develop nanomaterials that canexhibit anti-inflammatory effects. This technique has benefits, such as being environmentally friendly and cost-efficient. Additional research in this area is essential for effectively exploiting the potential of Ag NPs in anti-inflammatory activity.

RP HPLC Enabled Novel Analytical Method for the Development and Quantification of Cefuroxime Axetil in its Bulk Drug and Pharmaceutical Formulations

AbstractCurrent investigations aim to develop and validate an accurate, simple, specific, and precise RP‐HPLC method for the detection of cefuroxime axetil, in bulk and tablet dosage forms. Despite extensive literature reviews, no method could be found for estimating the variables mentioned above. The chromatographic separation is achieved on Sunfire C18 column (250 mm × 4.6 mm, 5 µm) of HPLC (Agilent Tech 1100), with 5 µm mobile phase composed of methanol, orthophosphoric acid (0.05%) adjusted to a pH of 3.0 in water, 40:60% v/v triethylamine using isocratic mode of elution, at wavelength 278.0 nm using UV Spectrophotometer, temperature 25 °C, detection is done. The developed method is done as per ICH guidelines. A linear calibration curve is found to be linear in concentrations between 1 and 5 µg mL−1 (r2 = 0.9995). The percentage recoveries of cefuroxime axetil are found to be in the range of 95.68–96.98%. The percentage of relative standard deviations in intraday trials is found to be 0.61, 0.66, and 0.88, respectively, and in interday studies are 0.06, 0.16, and 0.29, respectively, demonstrating good accuracy and little variance. The proposed method is highly sensitive, robust, precise, accurate, and the use of green solvents makes this method safe and efficacious.

Assessment of in vitro diffusion of Chincha Lavan Taila: An Ayurveda medicated oil

Medicated oils are used for external as well as internal administration to treat various disorders. In Ayurvedic literature Murchhana is a procedure carried out on crude oil as treatment to enhance properties of oil. In this study, Chincha Lavan Taila a medicated formulation is prepared by two procedures Murchhita Chincha Lavan Taila (MCLT) and Amurchhita Chincha Lavan Taila (ACLT). This study aims to assess the in-vitro diffusion of Chincha Lavan Taila formulated by processed sesame oil and crude sesame oil. The in-vitro rate and extent of permeability of drug dosage forms are good markers to access the absorbance of the drug. The objective of this study is to evaluate the drug release of both oils by using in- vitro absorbance methodology of Franz diffusion cell apparatus. The in- vitro absorbance was studied in Franz diffusion cell apparatus at pH 3 and pH 8. The samples were collected and analysed under UV spectrophotometer to note absorbance of oil at different wavelength. It was noted that in the buffer solution of pH 8, there was maximum absorbance of all the samples. This experimental study shows that both formulations have well sustained absorption through gastrointestinal tract. The results indicate that the rate of absorption exhibited to be higher in MCLT compared to ACLT. This work helps to develop a new method to evaluate intestinal absorption and compare formulation for therapeutic efficacy and drug absorbance.

Exploring Serum Zinc and Copper Levels as Potential Biomarkers in Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: A Cross-Sectional Study From Northeast India.

Introduction Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a prevalent hormonal disorder characterized by irregular menstrual cycles, ovarian cysts, and elevated androgen levels. The potential association between trace elements, specifically copper (Cu) and zinc (Zn), and PCOS has been explored, but a definitive relationship remains unclear. This study aims to investigate the levels of these trace elements in women with PCOS and their potential implications. Methods The study, conducted at Gauhati Medical College & Hospital, involved 60 individuals with PCOS and a matched control group. Ethical approval was obtained, and participants provided written informed consent. The study spanned from July2021to June2022, utilizing a hospital-based case-control study design. Diagnostic criteria adhered to the Rotterdam criteria, and serum copper and zinc levels were quantified using a double-beam UV spectrophotometer. Results In the PCOS group, the mean age was 23.01 ± 3.60 years, while the control group had a mean age of 23.34 ± 3.59 years, with no significant age difference. Mean copper levels were 147.32 ± 16.53 μg/dl in PCOS and 106.88 ± 15.60 μg/dl in controls, indicating a significant increase in PCOS (p < 0.0001). Mean zinc levels were 93.99 ± 6.76 μg/dl in PCOS and 85.42 ± 12.69 μg/dl in controls, also significantly higher in PCOS (p < 0.0001). Conclusion The study highlights significant differences in serum copper and zinc levels between women with PCOS and healthy controls, suggesting potential implications for the syndrome's pathophysiology. Further research is warranted to elucidate the precise roles of these trace elements in PCOS and explore therapeutic interventions.

WS2 nanosheets-based electrochemical biosensor for highly sensitive detection of tumor marker miRNA-4484

In this paper, a few-layer WS2 nanosheets-based electrochemical biosensor was fabricated for the highly sensitive detection of breast cancer tumor marker miRNA-4484. Firstly, few-layer WS2 nanosheets were prepared by shear stripping and characterized by SEM, TEM, AFM and UV spectrophotometer. After modification of few-layer WS2 nanosheets on the electrode surface, the miRNA probe was fixed on the few-layer WS2 nanosheets by polycytosine (PolyC). Then short-chain miRNA containing PolyC was used as the blocking agent to close the excess active sites on the surface of WS2 nanosheets to complete the fabrication of the sensor biosensing interface. Finally, the current changes caused by the specific binding of miRNA-4484 to the probe were analyzed by differential pulse voltammetry (DPV). The results showed that the sensor had a good linear relationship for the detection of miRNA-4484 in the concentration range of 1 aM–100 fM, and the detection limit was as low as 1.61 aM. In addition, the electrochemical sensor had excellent selectivity, stability and reproducibility. The artificial sample tests indicated that the developed biosensors have the potential for clinical application in the future.

Evaluation of Habenaria aitchisonii Reichb. for antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antinociceptive effects with in vivo and in silico approaches.

Habenaria aitchisonii Reichb was analyzed in this research, including its chemical composition and its in vitro antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, acute oral toxicity, and antinociceptive activity. The chloroform and ethyl acetate fractions were found to be the most powerful based on in vitro antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic assays. The acute oral toxicity of the crude methanolic extract was determined before in vivo studies. The acetic acid and formalin tests were used to measure the antinociceptive effect, and the potential mechanisms involved in antinociception were explored. The carrageenan-induced paw edema test was used to examine the immediate anti-inflammatory effect, and many phlogistic agents were used to determine the specific mechanism. Furthermore, for ex vivo activities, the mice were sacrificed, the forebrain was isolated, and the antioxidant levels of glutathione (GSH), superoxide dismutase (SOD), thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) and catalase (CAT) were estimated using a UV spectrophotometer. No toxicity was seen at oral dosages up to 3,000mg/kg. The antinociceptive impact was much higher than the standard drug. Both the inflammatory and neurogenic phases of the formalin experiment revealed an analgesic effect in the chloroform and ethyl acetate fractions. In carrageenan anti-inflammatory assays, the chloroform fraction (Ha.Chf) was the most potent fraction. We further studied the GC-MS of crude plant extract and found a total of 18 compounds. In the anti-inflammatory mechanism, it was observed that the Ha.Chf inhibits the COX-2 as well as 5-LOX pathways. The results exhibited that this species is a good source of phytocomponents like germacrone, which can be employed as a sustainable and natural therapeutic agent, supporting its traditional use in folk medicine for inflammatory conditions and pain.

Antibacterial and antibiofilm activities of amikacin-conjugated gold Nanoparticles: A promising formulation for contact lens preservation

Contact lenses are a widely utilized tool for both cosmetic and eyesight corrective purposes. Additionally, they are a direct contributor to microbial keratitis and corneal infections, particularly those caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa infections. This study aimed to conjugate amikacin to gold nanoparticles (GNPs) and assess the formulation's antibacterial and antibiofilm formation within contact lenses. The safe and environmentally friendly method, Pulsed laser ablation (PLAL), was used to prepare the amikacin-conjugated gold nanoparticles (Am@GNPs). The characterization of the produced formula was studied using a spectrophotometer UV light, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and Fourier transforms infrared (FT-IR). Compared to the GNPs and the antibiotic amikacin, the anti-biofilm activity of Am@GNPs was measured using atomic force microscopy (AFM), whereas the antibacterial activity was measured by the well diffusion and microdilution methods against the most prevalent contact lens microbial isolates, i.e., P. aeruginosa and Streptococcus pneumonia. The formulation, Am@GNPs, was induced higher inhibition zone and lower MIC values compared to the GNPs and the amikacin antibiotic, the effect which was more pronounced against P. aeruginosa than S. pneumonia bacterial strains. Application of Am@GNPs to the contact lenses also potentially reduced P. aeruginosa and S. pneumoniae biofilm formation, with the lowest biofilm thickness compared to the amikacin and GNPs, as demonstrated by the AFM scanning. According to current findings, the prepared Am@GNPs exhibited substantial antibacterial effects and could be a potential preservative formula for contact lenses and other eye-related medical devices.