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  1. Fulltext A Compact Mu-Near-Zero Metamaterial Integrated Wideband High-Gain MIMO Antenna for 5G New Radio Applications
    Hasan MM, Islam MT, Rahim SKA, Alam T, Rmili H, Alzamil A, et al.
    Materials (Basel), 2023 Feb 20;16(4).
    PMID: 36837381 DOI: 10.3390/ma16041751
    This article demonstrates a compact wideband four-port multiple-input-multiple-output (MIMO) antenna system integrated with a wideband metamaterial (MM) to reach high gain for sub-6 GHz new radio (NR) 5G communication. The four antennas of the proposed MIMO system are orthogonally positioned to the adjacent antennas with a short interelement edge-to-edge distance (0.19λmin at 3.25 GHz), confirming compact size and wideband characteristics 55.2% (3.25-5.6 GHz). Each MIMO system component consists of a fractal slotted unique patch with a transmission feed line and a metal post-encased defected ground structure (DGS). The designed MIMO system is realized on a low-cost FR-4 printed material with a miniature size of 0.65λmin × 0.65λmin × 0.02λmin. A 6 × 6 array of double U-shaped resonator-based unique mu-near-zero (MNZ) wideband metamaterial reflector (MMR) is employed below the MIMO antenna with a 0.14λmin air gap, improving the gain by 2.8 dBi and manipulating the MIMO beam direction by 60°. The designed petite MIMO system with a MM reflector proposes a high peak gain of 7.1 dBi in comparison to recent relevant antennas with high isolation of 35 dB in the n77/n78/n79 bands. In addition, the proposed wideband MMR improves the MIMO diversity and radiation characteristics with an average total efficiency of 68% over the desired bands. The stated MIMO antenna system has an outstanding envelope correlation coefficient (ECC) of <0.045, a greater diversity gain (DG) of near 10 dB (>9.96 dB), a low channel capacity loss (CCL) of <0.35 b/s/Hz and excellent multiplexing efficiency (ME) of higher than -1.4 dB. The proposed MIMO concept is confirmed by fabricating and testing the developed MIMO structure. In contrast to the recent relevant works, the proposed antenna is compact in size, while maintaining high gain and wideband characteristics, with strong MIMO performance. Thus, the proposed concept could be a potential approach to the 5G MIMO antenna system.
  2. Recent Trends in Rationally Designed Molecules as Kinase Inhibitors
    Prasher P, Sharma M, Chan Y, Singh SK, Anand K, Dureja H, et al.
    Curr Med Chem, 2023;30(13):1529-1567.
    PMID: 34766883 DOI: 10.2174/0929867328666211111161811
    Protein kinases modulate the structure and function of proteins by adding phosphate groups to threonine, tyrosine, and serine residues. The phosphorylation process mediated by the kinases regulates several physiological processes, while their overexpression results in the development of chronic diseases, including cancer. Targeting of receptor tyrosine kinase pathways results in the inhibition of angiogenesis and cell proliferation that validates kinases as a key target in the management of aggressive cancers. As such, the identification of protein kinase inhibitors revolutionized the contemporary anticancer therapy by inducing a paradigm shift in the management of disease pathogenesis. Contemporary drug design programs focus on a broad range of kinase targets for the development of novel pharmacophores to manage the overexpression of kinases and their pathophysiology in cancer pathogenesis. In this review, we present the emerging trends in the development of rationally designed molecular inhibitors of kinases over the last five years (2016-2021) and their incipient role in the development of impending anticancer pharmaceuticals.
  3. A Central Spiral Split Rectangular-Shaped Metamaterial Absorber Surrounded by Polarization-Insensitive Ring Resonator for S-Band Applications
    Sakib S, Hoque A, Rahim SKBA, Singh M, Sahar NM, Islam MS, et al.
    Materials (Basel), 2023 Jan 30;16(3).
    PMID: 36770180 DOI: 10.3390/ma16031172
    This paper reports a central spiral split-rectangular-shaped metamaterial absorber surrounded by a polarization-insensitive ring resonator for s-band applications. The rated absorption is 99.9% at 3.1 GHz when using a three-layer structure where the top and ground are made of copper and the center dielectric material is a commonly used FR-4 substrate. The central split gaps have an impact on the unit cell by increasing high absorption, and an adequate electric field is apparent in the outer split ring gap. At 3.1 GHz, the permittivity and permeability are negative and positive, respectively, so the proposed unit cell acts as an epsilon negative (ENG) metamaterial absorber. In a further analysis, Roger4450B was used as a substrate and obtained excellent absorption rates of 99.382%, 99.383%, 99.91%, and 95.17% at 1.44, 3.96, 4.205, and 5.025 GHz, respectively, in the S- and C-band regions. This unit cell acts as a single negative metamaterial (SNG) absorber at all resonance frequencies. The S11 and S21 parameters for FR-4 and Rogers4450B were simulated while keeping the polarization angle (θ and φ) at 15, 30, 45, 60, 75, and 90 degrees to measure, permittivity, permeability, reflective index, absorption, and reflection. The values of the reflective index are near zero. Near-zero reflective indexes (NZRI) are widely used in antenna gain propagation. The unit cell fabricated for the FR-4 substrate attained 99.9% absorption. S-band values in the range of (2-4) GHz can be applied for low-frequency radar detection.
  4. Advances and opportunities in nanoimaging agents for the diagnosis of inflammatory lung diseases
    Masanam HB, Perumal G, Krishnan S, Singh SK, Jha NK, Chellappan DK, et al.
    Nanomedicine (Lond), 2022 Oct;17(25):1981-2005.
    PMID: 36695290 DOI: 10.2217/nnm-2021-0427
    The development of rapid, noninvasive diagnostics to detect lung diseases is a great need after the COVID-2019 outbreak. The nanotechnology-based approach has improved imaging and facilitates the early diagnosis of inflammatory lung diseases. The multifunctional properties of nanoprobes enable better spatial-temporal resolution and a high signal-to-noise ratio in imaging. Targeted nanoimaging agents have been used to bind specific tissues in inflammatory lungs for early-stage diagnosis. However, nanobased imaging approaches for inflammatory lung diseases are still in their infancy. This review provides a solution-focused approach to exploring medical imaging technologies and nanoprobes for the detection of inflammatory lung diseases. Prospects for the development of contrast agents for lung disease detection are also discussed.
  5. Fulltext Engagement in Chemsex among Men Who Have Sex with Men (MSM) in Malaysia: Prevalence and Associated Factors from an Online National Survey
    Maviglia F, Wickersham JA, Azwa I, Copenhaver N, Kennedy O, Kern M, et al.
    Int J Environ Res Public Health, 2022 Dec 24;20(1).
    PMID: 36612617 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20010294
    Background: Chemsex is the use of illicit drugs—particularly methamphetamine, gamma hydroxybutyrate (GHB), and gamma-butyrolactone (GBL)—to enhance sexual activity. Chemsex, which occurs primarily among communities of men who have sex with men (MSM), is associated with greater HIV risk behaviors, including multiple sex partners, group sex, condomless sex, and injection drug use. Despite evidence showing chemsex engagement among Malaysian MSM, there is a paucity of research on chemsex among MSM in Malaysia. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted through an online survey (August to September 2021) among 870 Malaysian MSM. Participants were recruited through targeted advertisements on social networks. We collected information regarding participants’ recent (<6 months) engagement in chemsex, demographic characteristics, psychosocial factors, pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) knowledge and history, and recent sexual- and drug-related behavior. Multivariable logistic regression was used to identify factors associated with recent (<6 months) chemsex engagement. Results: Just under 1 in 10 (9.0%) of participants reported having engaged in chemsex in the previous six months. More than two-thirds of participants (69.1%) had not disclosed their sexual orientation to anyone in their family and 35.2% reported moderate to severe depressive symptoms. Multivariable analysis found that recent injection drug use (adjusted odds ratio: aOR = 6.61; 95% confidence interval: CI, 2.30−19.03), having shared pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) with someone else (aOR = 5.60; 95% CI, 1.76−17.77), higher perceived HIV risk (aOR = 3.15; 95% CI, 1.25−7.93), knowing someone using PrEP (aOR = 2.93; 95% CI, 1.62−5.31), recent engagement in transactional sex (aOR = 2.38; 95% CI, 1.06−5.39), having a recent STI diagnosis (aOR = 2.36; 95% CI, 1.25−4.44), recent engagement in anal sex (aOR = 2.21; 95% CI, 1.07−4.57), and recent sexual intercourse with an HIV-positive partner (aOR = 2.09; 95% CI, 1.07−4.08) were associated with recent engagement in chemsex. Conclusions: Malaysian MSM who practice chemsex are vulnerable to several HIV risk factors, such as transactional sex, HIV-positive sexual partners, and injection drug use. There is an urgent need for programs that integrate drug, sexual health, and mental health services, with a focus on harm reduction (e.g., condoms, access to and utilization of HIV testing and PrEP services, drug knowledge, and safer drug use) tailored for MSM who practice chemsex.
  6. Fulltext Clinic-Integrated Smartphone App (JomPrEP) to Improve Uptake of HIV Testing and Pre-exposure Prophylaxis Among Men Who Have Sex With Men in Malaysia: Mixed Methods Evaluation of Usability and Acceptability
    Shrestha R, Altice FL, Khati A, Azwa I, Gautam K, Gupta S, et al.
    JMIR Mhealth Uhealth, 2023 Feb 16;11:e44468.
    PMID: 36795465 DOI: 10.2196/44468
    BACKGROUND: HIV disproportionately affects men who have sex with men (MSM). In Malaysia, where stigma and discrimination toward MSM are high, including in health care settings, mobile health (mHealth) platforms have the potential to open new frontiers in HIV prevention.

    OBJECTIVE: We developed an innovative, clinic-integrated smartphone app called JomPrEP, which provides a virtual platform for Malaysian MSM to engage in HIV prevention services. In collaboration with the local clinics in Malaysia, JomPrEP offers a range of HIV prevention (ie, HIV testing and pre-exposure prophylaxis [PrEP]) and other support services (eg, referral to mental health support) without having to interface face to face with clinicians. This study evaluated the usability and acceptability of JomPrEP to deliver HIV prevention services for MSM in Malaysia.

    METHODS: In total, 50 PrEP-naive MSM without HIV in Greater Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, were recruited between March and April 2022. Participants used JomPrEP for a month and completed a postuse survey. The usability of the app and its features were assessed using self-report and objective measures (eg, app analytics, clinic dashboard). Acceptability was evaluated using the System Usability Scale (SUS).

    RESULTS: The participants' mean age was 27.9 (SD 5.3) years. Participants used JomPrEP for an average of 8 (SD 5.0) times during 30 days of testing, with each session lasting an average of 28 (SD 38.9) minutes. Of the 50 participants, 42 (84%) ordered an HIV self-testing (HIVST) kit using the app, of whom 18 (42%) ordered an HIVST more than once. Almost all participants (46/50, 92%) initiated PrEP using the app (same-day PrEP initiation: 30/46, 65%); of these, 16/46 (35%) participants chose PrEP e-consultation via the app (vs in-person consultation). Regarding PrEP dispensing, 18/46 (39%) participants chose to receive their PrEP via mail delivery (vs pharmacy pickup). The app was rated as having high acceptability with a mean score of 73.8 (SD 10.1) on the SUS.

    CONCLUSIONS: JomPrEP was found to be a highly feasible and acceptable tool for MSM in Malaysia to access HIV prevention services quickly and conveniently. A broader, randomized controlled trial is warranted to evaluate its efficacy on HIV prevention outcomes among MSM in Malaysia.

    TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT05052411; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT05052411.

    INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID): RR2-10.2196/43318.

  7. The importance, benefits, and future of nanobiosensors for infectious diseases
    Dhahi TS, Dafhalla AKY, Saad SA, Zayan DMI, Ahmed AET, Elobaid ME, et al.
    Biotechnol Appl Biochem, 2024 Apr;71(2):429-445.
    PMID: 38238920 DOI: 10.1002/bab.2550
    Infectious diseases, caused by pathogenic microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, parasites, or fungi, are crucial for efficient disease management, reducing morbidity and mortality rates and controlling disease spread. Traditional laboratory-based diagnostic methods face challenges such as high costs, time consumption, and a lack of trained personnel in resource-poor settings. Diagnostic biosensors have gained momentum as a potential solution, offering advantages such as low cost, high sensitivity, ease of use, and portability. Nanobiosensors are a promising tool for detecting and diagnosing infectious diseases such as coronavirus disease, human immunodeficiency virus, and hepatitis. These sensors use nanostructured carbon nanotubes, graphene, and nanoparticles to detect specific biomarkers or pathogens. They operate through mechanisms like the lateral flow test platform, where a sample containing the biomarker or pathogen is applied to a test strip. If present, the sample binds to specific recognition probes on the strip, indicating a positive result. This binding event is visualized through a colored line. This review discusses the importance, benefits, and potential of nanobiosensors in detecting infectious diseases.
  8. Fulltext Exploring Attitudes Toward Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis for HIV Prevention Prior to Implementation Among Female Sex Workers in Malaysia: Results from a Qualitative Study
    Foley S, Keene DE, Shrestha R, Brown SE, Gautam K, Sutherland RA, et al.
    Patient Prefer Adherence, 2024;18:797-807.
    PMID: 38595805 DOI: 10.2147/PPA.S413423
    INTRODUCTION: Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is an effective method for prevention of HIV transmission. Female sex workers (FSW) in Malaysia are at substantially increased risk of acquiring HIV compared to the general female population, yet little is known about this population's current HIV prevention practices or acceptance of PrEP. This study aims to inform the culturally relevant implementation of PrEP through the qualitative exploration of (1) the potential need for PrEP in this population and (2) the factors that determine FSW willingness to use oral PrEP.

    METHODS: In-depth, semi-structured interviews (n = 30) were conducted with FSW in English, Malay, or Tamil. Transcribed and translated interviews were analyzed using a grounded theory approach.

    RESULTS: FSW express positive interest in PrEP but prefer it as a supplement to condoms, not a replacement. Perceived challenges to PrEP use include cost, adherence, and side effects.

    CONCLUSION: The findings suggest that in combination with condom use, PrEP may be an acceptable method of HIV prevention. Effective PrEP rollout may also include condom promotion using a peer-driven model, cost subsidies, and sex work harm reduction and empowerment components.

  9. Neuroprotective Role of Phytoconstituents-based Nanoemulsion for the Treatment of Alzheimer's Disease
    Vishwas S, Bashir B, Birla D, Khandale N, Chaitanya MVNL, Chellappan DK, et al.
    Curr Top Med Chem, 2024 Apr 25.
    PMID: 38676489 DOI: 10.2174/0115680266296001240327090111
    Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most prevalent form of neurodegenerative disorder (ND), affecting more than 44 million individuals globally as of 2023. It is characterized by cognitive dysfunction and an inability to perform daily activities. The progression of AD is associated with the accumulation of amyloid beta (Aβ), the formation of neurofibrillary tangles (NFT), increased oxidative stress, neuroinflammation, mitochondrial dysfunction, and endoplasmic reticulum stress. Presently, various phytomedicines and their bioactive compounds have been identified for their neuroprotective effects in reducing oxidative stress, alleviating neuroinflammation, and mitigating the accumulation of Aβ and acetylcholinesterase enzymes in the hippocampus and cerebral cortex regions of the brain. However, despite demonstrating promising anti-Alzheimer's effects, the clinical utilization of phytoconstituents remains limited in scope. The key factor contributing to this limitation is the challenges inherent in traditional drug delivery systems, which impede their effectiveness and efficiency. These difficulties encompass insufficient drug targeting, restricted drug solubility and stability, brief duration of action, and a lack of control over drug release. Consequently, these constraints result in diminished bioavailability and insufficient permeability across the blood-brain barrier (BBB). In response to these challenges, novel drug delivery systems (NDDS) founded on nanoformulations have emerged as a hopeful strategy to augment the bioavailability and BBB permeability of bioactive compounds with poor solubility. Among these systems, nanoemulsion (NE) have been extensively investigated for their potential in targeting AD. NE offers several advantages, such as ease of preparation, high drug loading, and high stability. Due to their nanosize droplets, NE also improves gut and BBB permeability leading to enhanced permeability of the drug in systemic circulation and the brain. Various studies have reported the testing of NE-based phytoconstituents and their bioactives in different animal species, including transgenic, Wistar, and Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats, as well as mice. However, transgenic mice are commonly employed in AD research to analyze the effects of Aβ. In this review, various aspects such as the neuroprotective role of various phytoconstituents, the challenges associated with conventional drug delivery, and the need for NDDS, particularly NE, are discussed. Various studies involving phytoconstituent-based NE for the treatment of AD are also discussed.
  10. Recent Trends and Applications of Nanostructure-based Drug Delivery in Alleviating Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
    Nagar L, Gulati N, Saini A, Singh S, Gupta G, MacLoughlin R, et al.
    Curr Drug Deliv, 2024 Mar 05.
    PMID: 38445696 DOI: 10.2174/0115672018289883240226113353
    Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), a chronic lung disease that causes breathing difficulties and obstructs airflow from the lungs, has a significant global health burden and affects millions of people worldwide. The use of pharmaceuticals in COPD treatment is aimed to alleviate symptoms, improve lung function, prevent exacerbations, and enhance the overall quality of life for patients. Nanotechnology holds great promise to alleviate the burden of COPD. The main goal of this review is to present the full spectrum of therapeutics based on nanostructures for the treatment and management of COPD, including nanoparticles, polymeric nanoparticles, polymeric micelles, solid-lipid nanoparticles, liposomes, exosomes, nanoemulsions, nanosuspensions, and niosomes. Nanotechnology is just one of the many areas of research that may contribute to the development of more effective and personalized treatment modalities for COPD patients in the future. Future studies may be focused on enhancing the therapeutic effectiveness of nanocarriers by conducting extensive mechanistic investigations to translate current scientific knowledge for the effective management of COPD with little or no adverse effects.
  11. Fulltext Identification of Pyrazole Derivatives of Usnic Acid as Novel Inhibitor of SARS-CoV-2 Main Protease Through Virtual Screening Approaches
    Roney M, Singh G, Huq AKMM, Forid MS, Ishak WMBW, Rullah K, et al.
    Mol Biotechnol, 2024 Apr;66(4):696-706.
    PMID: 36752937 DOI: 10.1007/s12033-023-00667-5
    The infection produced by the SARS-CoV-2 virus remains a significant health crisis worldwide. The lack of specific medications for COVID-19 necessitates a concerted effort to find the much-desired therapies for this condition. The main protease (Mpro) of SARS-CoV-2 is a promising target, vital for virus replication and transcription. In this study, fifty pyrazole derivatives were tested for their pharmacokinetics and drugability, resulting in eight hit compounds. Subsequent molecular docking simulations on SARS-CoV-2 main protease afforded two lead compounds with strong affinity at the active site. Additionally, the molecular dynamics (MD) simulations of lead compounds (17 and 39), along with binding free energy calculations, were accomplished to validate the stability of the docked complexes and the binding poses achieved in docking experiments. Based on these findings, compound 17 and 39, with their favorable projected pharmacokinetics and pharmacological characteristics, are the proposed potential antiviral candidates which require further investigation to be used as anti-SARS-CoV-2 medication.
  12. Fulltext Clinical Profile and Visual Outcomes of Ocular Syphilis: A Five-year Review in Hospital Universiti Sains, Malaysia
    Ghanimi Zamli AK, Irma Ngah NS, Chew-Ean T, Muhammed J, Wan Hitam WH, Hussein A, et al.
    Cureus, 2019 Feb 05;11(2):e4015.
    PMID: 31007973 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.4015
    Introduction Ocular syphilis is a sight-threatening condition. It can occur at any stage of syphilis infection, which present either with acute inflammation during the primary, secondary, and early latent stages or with chronic inflammation during tertiary infection, affecting virtually every ocular structure. This study was to report on the clinical presentation of ocular syphilis that presented to eye clinic Hospital Universiti Sains Malaysia. Methodology This was a retrospective study where medical records of ocular syphilis patients who attended eye clinic in Hospital Universiti Sains Malaysia from January 2013 to June 2017 were reviewed. Results A total of 10 patients (13 eyes) with ocular syphilis were identified out of 106 cases that presented with ocular inflammation. The mean age of presentation was 69.8 ± 6.4 years and seven of them (70%) were female. All patients were Malay and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) was negative. The ocular manifestations included panuveitis (four eyes, 30.8%), anterior uveitis (two eyes, 15.4%), posterior uveitis (seven eyes, 53.8%) and optic neuritis (two eyes, 15.4%). Seven (53.8%) eyes presented with visual acuity of worse than 6/60, five (38.5%) eyes had visual acuity between 6/15 to 6/60, and one (7.7%) eye had visual acuity of 6/12 or better. Nine patients received an intravenous benzylpenicillin regime and one patient received an intramuscular penicillin injection. Out of 13 eyes affected, 11 (84.6%) eyes had improved visual acuity of at least one Snellen line after treatment. Visual acuity of 6/12 or better increased to four (30.8%) eyes. Conclusions Posterior uveitis was the commonest presentation of ocular syphilis in HIV-negative patients. Early detection and treatment of ocular syphilis can result in resolution of inflammation and improvement of vision.
  13. Chromatography Scrutiny, Molecular Docking, Clarifying the Selectivities and the Mechanism of [3 + 2] Cycloloaddition Reaction between Linallol and Chlorobenzene-Nitrile-oxide
    Barhoumi A, Ryachi K, Belghiti ME, Chafi M, Tounsi A, Syed A, et al.
    J Fluoresc, 2024 Jul;34(4):1913-1929.
    PMID: 37668770 DOI: 10.1007/s10895-023-03411-z
    Employing the Molecular Electron Density Theory, [3 + 2] cycloaddition processes between 4-chlorobenzenenitrileoxide and linalool, have been applied using the DFT/B3LYP/6-311(d,p) method, activation, reaction energies and the reactivity indices are calculated. In an investigation of conceptual DFT indices, LIL-1 will contribute to this reaction as a nucleophile, whilst NOX-2 will participate as an electrophile. This cyclization is regio, chemo and stereospecific, as demonstrated by the reaction and activation energies, in clear agreement with the experiment's results, in addition, ELF analysis revealed that the mechanism for this cycloaddition occurs in two steps. Furthermore, a docking study was conducted on the products studied, and the interaction with the protein protease COVID-19 (PDB ID: 6LU7), our results indicate that the presence of the -OH group increases the affinity of these products, moreover, adsorption study by chromatography was made on silica gel as support; our outcome reveals that the -OH group creates an intramolecular hydrogen bond in the product P2, while in the product P3 will create a hydrogen bond with the silica gel which makes the two products P2 and P3 are very easy to separate by chromatography, this result is in excellent agreement with the Rf retention value. The study might provide a fundamental for developing natural anti-viral compound in promoting human health.
  14. Quality by Design-based RP-HPLC Method for Estimation of Curcumin in Rat Plasma and Fecal Microbiota Extract-based Solid Self-nano Emulsifying Drug Delivery System
    Corrie L, Gulati M, Kaur J, Awasthi A, Vishwas S, Ramanunny AK, et al.
    Curr Drug Res Rev, 2023;15(3):272-285.
    PMID: 36683365 DOI: 10.2174/2589977515666230120140543
    BACKGROUND: Curcumin (CRM) is known to possess various therapeutic properties, such as anti-inflammatory and antidiabetic properties, and is, therefore, considered to be an effective therapeutic.

    OBJECTIVE: A sensitive method for the estimation of CRM in plasma, as well as fecal matter-based solid self-nano emulsifying drug delivery system (S-SNEDDS), has been reported for the first time.

    METHODS: A bioanalytical method was optimized using Box-Behnken Design having 13 runs and 3 responses. The optimized method was developed using methanol and water (70:30 v/v) with a flow rate of 1 mL/min. Quercetin was used as an internal standard. A specificity test was also performed for the developed CRM solid self-nano emulsifying drug delivery system.

    RESULTS: The retention time of CRM was found to be 14.18 minutes. The developed method was validated and found to be linear in the range of 50-250 ng/mL with an R2 of 0.999. Accuracy studies indicated that CRM had a percentage recovery of less than 105% and more than 95%, respectively. Precision studies were carried out for inter, intraday, and inter-analyst precision, and the %RSD was found to be less than 2%. The limit of detection (LOD) and limit of quantification (LOQ) were found to be 3.37 ng/mL and 10.23 ng/mL, respectively. Stability studies for shortterm, long term and freeze-thaw cycles showed a %RSD of less than 2%, indicating the stability of CRM in the plasma matrix. Moreover, the blank fecal microbiota extract slurry did not show any peak at the retention time of CRM in a CRM-loaded solid nanoemulsifying drug delivery system containing fecal microbiota extract indicating its specificity.

    CONCLUSION: Hence, the developed method can have clinical implications as it helps estimate CRM in blood samples and also provides a simple and sensitive method for the estimation of plant-based flavonoids along with fecal microbiota extract formulations.

  15. Fulltext H-shaped modifiers loaded mirror symmetric resonator based double negative metamaterial for multi-band wireless communications
    Rahman AAM, Islam MT, Moniruzzaman M, Rahim SKA, Singh M, Misran N, et al.
    Sci Rep, 2023 Sep 24;13(1):15943.
    PMID: 37743360 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-43182-y
    In this article, a unique metamaterial (MTM) structure is presented that exhibits four resonances of transmission coefficient (S21) that fall into S, X, and Ku bands. The MTM design is initiated on a Rogers (RT5880) substrate with an electrical dimension of 0.088 λ × 0.088 λ (λ is calculated at 3.424 GHz). The resonating patch contains four quartiles connected by a central metallic strip. The placement of each quartile is such that the whole resonator is mirror symmetric about the vertical axis. Two H-shaped modifiers connect two quartiles of each vertical half of the resonator. These H-shaped modifiers form the resonance cavity in its vicinity, and thus help significantly to orient the overall resonances of the proposed MTM at 3.424 GHz, 10 GHz, 14.816 GHz, and 16.848 GHz. The resonance phenomena are examined through equivalent circuit modeling and verified in Advanced Design Software (ADS). Metamaterial properties of the proposed MTM are extracted and it exhibits negative permittivity, permeability, and refractive index. The prototype of the MTM is fabricated and measurement is taken. The measured S21 shows a close similarity with the simulated result. Moreover, effective medium ratio (EMR) is calculated for the proposed MTM and a high EMR of 10.95 is obtained that expresses its compactness. This compact MTM with negative permittivity, permittivity, and refractive index can be important component for improving the performance of the miniaturized devices for multi-band wireless communication systems.
  16. Fulltext Pharmacological inhibition of endoplasmic reticulum stress mitigates osteoporosis in a mouse model of hindlimb suspension
    Al-Daghestani H, Qaisar R, Al Kawas S, Ghani N, Rani KGA, Azeem M, et al.
    Sci Rep, 2024 Feb 27;14(1):4719.
    PMID: 38413677 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-54944-7
    Hindlimb suspension (HLS) mice exhibit osteoporosis of the hindlimb bones and may be an excellent model to test pharmacological interventions. We investigated the effects of inhibiting endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress with 4-phenyl butyrate (4-PBA) on the morphology, physicochemical properties, and bone turnover markers of hindlimbs in HLS mice. We randomly divided 21 male C57BL/6J mice into three groups, ground-based controls, untreated HLS group and 4-PBA treated group (HLS+4PBA) (100mg/kg/day, intraperitoneal) for 21 days. We investigated histopathology, micro-CT imaging, Raman spectroscopic analysis, and gene expression. Untreated HLS mice exhibited reduced osteocyte density, multinucleated osteoclast-like cells, adipocyte infiltration, and reduced trabecular striations on micro-CT than the control group. Raman spectroscopy revealed higher levels of ER stress, hydroxyproline, non-collagenous proteins, phenylalanine, tyrosine, and CH2Wag as well as a reduction in proteoglycans and adenine. Furthermore, bone alkaline phosphatase and osteocalcin were downregulated, while Cathepsin K, TRAP, and sclerostin were upregulated. Treatment with 4-PBA partially restored normal bone histology, increased collagen crosslinking, and mineralization, promoted anti-inflammatory markers, and downregulated bone resorption markers. Our findings suggest that mitigating ER stress with 4-PBA could be a therapeutic intervention to offset osteoporosis in conditions mimicking hindlimb suspension.
  17. Fulltext Metabolic routes affecting rubber biosynthesis in Hevea brasiliensis latex
    Chow KS, Mat-Isa MN, Bahari A, Ghazali AK, Alias H, Mohd-Zainuddin Z, et al.
    J Exp Bot, 2012 Mar;63(5):1863-71.
    PMID: 22162870 DOI: 10.1093/jxb/err363
    The cytosolic mevalonate (MVA) pathway in Hevea brasiliensis latex is the conventionally accepted pathway which provides isopentenyl diphosphate (IPP) for cis-polyisoprene (rubber) biosynthesis. However, the plastidic 2-C-methyl-D-erythritol 4-phosphate (MEP) pathway may be an alternative source of IPP since its more recent discovery in plants. Quantitative RT-PCR (qRT-PCR) expression profiles of genes from both pathways in latex showed that subcellular compartmentalization of IPP for cis-polyisoprene synthesis is related to the degree of plastidic carotenoid synthesis. From this, the occurrence of two schemes of IPP partitioning and utilization within one species is proposed whereby the supply of IPP for cis-polyisoprene from the MEP pathway is related to carotenoid production in latex. Subsequently, a set of latex unique gene transcripts was sequenced and assembled and they were then mapped to IPP-requiring pathways. Up to eight such pathways, including cis-polyisoprene biosynthesis, were identified. Our findings on pre- and post-IPP metabolic routes form an important aspect of a pathway knowledge-driven approach to enhancing cis-polyisoprene biosynthesis in transgenic rubber trees.
  18. Fulltext Norfloxacin and metronidazole topical formulations for effective treatment of bacterial infections and burn wounds
    Dua K, Malipeddi VR, Madan J, Gupta G, Chakravarthi S, Awasthi R, et al.
    Interv Med Appl Sci, 2016 Jun 01;8(2):68-76.
    PMID: 28386462 DOI: 10.1556/1646.8.2016.2.4
    INTRODUCTION: Our various previous findings have shown the suitability of norfloxacin in the treatment of bacterial infections and burn wounds in alone as well as in combination with Curcuma longa in various topical (ointments, gels, and creams) and transdermal drug delivery systems.

    AIMS AND METHODS: Keeping these facts in consideration, we have made an another attempt to prepare semisolid formulations containing 1% w/w of norfloxacin and metronidazole with different bases like Carbopol, polyethylene glycol, and hydroxypropylmethyl cellulose for effective treatment of bacterial infections and burn wounds. The prepared formulations were evaluated for physicochemical parameters, in vitro drug release, antimicrobial activity, and burn wound healing properties.

    RESULTS: The prepared formulations were compared with Silver Sulfadiazine cream 1%, USP. Antimicrobial activity of norfloxacin semisolid formulations was found to be equally effective against both aerobic and anaerobic bacteria in comparison to a marketed formulation of Silver Sulfadiazine 1% cream, USP. Based on the burn wound healing property, the prepared norfloxacin semisolid formulation was found to be in good agreement with marketed Silver Sulfadiazine 1% cream, USP.

    CONCLUSIONS: These findings suggest formulations containing norfloxacin and metronidazole may also prove as an effective alternative for existing remedies in the treatment of bacterial infections and burn wounds.

  19. Fulltext Prevalence of Salmonella in poultry processing environments in wet markets in Penang and Perlis, Malaysia
    Nidaullah H, Abirami N, Shamila-Syuhada AK, Chuah LO, Nurul H, Tan TP, et al.
    Vet World, 2017 Mar;10(3):286-292.
    PMID: 28435190 DOI: 10.14202/vetworld.2017.286-292
    AIM: The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of various Salmonella serotypes in chickens, carcass contact surfaces as well as environmental samples collected from wet markets and small scale processing plant.

    MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 182 poultry and environmental samples were collected at random on separate occasions from wet markets and small scale processing plant, during the period of October 2014 to July 2015 in Penang and Perlis, Malaysia. The samples were analyzed for the presence of Salmonella using ISO 6579:2002 conventional culture-based method. Presumptive Salmonella colonies were subjected to various biochemical tests (such as triple sugar iron and lysine iron test), serologically confirmed using polyvalent O and H antisera and further serotyped at Public Health Laboratory, Ministry of Health, Perak, Malaysia.

    RESULTS: Salmonella serotypes were isolated from 161 out of 182 samples (88.46%) with 100% prevalence in the whole chicken carcass and chicken cuts - as well as transport crate, cage, drum, knife, chopping board, display table, floor, bench wash water, wash water, and drain water. Salmonella was isolated from 91.67%, 83.33%, and 66.67% of defeathering machines, drain swabs, and apron, respectively. 17 serotypes were isolated in this study with Salmonella Albany (57/161), Salmonella Corvallis (42/161), and Salmonella Brancaster (37/161) being the predominant serovars.

    CONCLUSION: The most carcass contact and environmental samples collected along the wet market chicken processing line were consistently contaminated with Salmonella. This indicates that Salmonella has established itself in poultry processing environments by colonizing the surfaces of the equipment and survives in these environments by establishing biofilms. Our results highlight the need of implementing strict hygiene and sanitation standards to reduce the incidence of Salmonella. The prevalence of Salmonella in poultry can be reduced effectively by identifying and eliminating the sources and contamination sites during slaughter and processing of poultry.

  20. Fulltext The application of nanoparticles as advanced drug delivery systems in Attenuating COPD
    Jessamine V, Mehndiratta S, De Rubis G, Paudel KR, Shetty S, Suares D, et al.
    Heliyon, 2024 Feb 15;10(3):e25393.
    PMID: 38356590 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e25393
    Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a dilapidating condition which is characterized by inflammation, an excess in free radical generation and airway obstruction. Currently, the drugs commercially available for the management of COPD pose several limitations such as systemic adverse effects, including bone density loss and an increased risk of developing pneumonia. Moreover, another limitation includes the need for regular and frequent dosing regimens; which can affect the adherence to the therapy. Furthermore, these current treatments provide symptomatic relief; however, they cannot stop the progression of COPD. Comparatively, nanoparticles (NPs) provide great therapeutic potential to treat COPD due to their high specificity, biocompatibility, and higher bioavailability. Furthermore, the NP-based drug delivery systems involve less frequent dosing requirements and in smaller doses which assist in minimizing side effects. In this review, the benefits and limitations of conventional therapies are explored, while providing an in-depth insight on advanced applications of NP-based systems in the treatment of COPD.
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