Random Amplification Polymorphic DNA and Agro-Morphological Traits-Based Fingerprinting for Detection of Genetic Divergence in Indian Black Rice

In this study, 32 black rice genotypes spanning diverse geographies in India were evaluated at both phenotypic and DNA sequence levels to gain insights into their genetic makeup. Significant variations were observed for 14 agro-morphological traits, showing correlations among several yield-related traits.

Emerging roles of microRNAs as diagnostics and potential therapeutic interest in type 2 diabetes mellitus

BACKGROUND Type 2 diabetes mellitus(T2DM)is a metabolic disease of impaired glucose utilization.Uncontrolled high sugar levels lead to advanced glycation end products(AGEs),which affects several metabolic pathways by its receptor of advanced glycation end products(RAGE)and causes diabetic complication.MiRNAs are small RNA molecules which regulate genes linked to diabetes and affect AGEs pathogenesis,and target tissues,influencing health and disease processes.AIM To explore miRNA roles in T2DM's metabolic pathways for potential therapeutic and diagnostic advancements in diabetes complications.METHODS We systematically searched the electronic database PubMed using keywords.We included free,full-length research articles that evaluate the role of miRNAs in T2DM and its complications,focusing on genetic and molecular disease mechanisms.After assessing the full-length papers of the shortlisted articles,we included 12 research articles.RESULTS Several types of miRNAs are linked in metabolic pathways which are affected by AGE/RAGE axis in T2DM and its complications.miR-96-5p,miR-7-5p,miR-132,has_circ_0071106,miR-143,miR-21,miR-145-5p,and more are associated with various aspects of T2DM,including disease risk,diagnostic markers,complications,and gene regulation.CONCLUSION Targeting the AGE/RAGE axis,with a focus on miRNA regulation,holds promise for managing T2DM and its complications.MiRNAs have therapeutic potential as they can influence the metabolic pathways affected by AGEs and RAGE,potentially reducing inflammation,oxidative stress,and vascular complications.Additionally,miRNAs may serve as early diagnostic biomarkers for T2DM.Further research in this area may lead to innovative therapeutic strategies for diabetes and its associated complications.

Combined Application of Biostimulants and EDTA Improved Wheat Productivity under Cadmium Stress

Wheat(Triticum aestivum L.)exhibits a greater capacity for cadmium(Cd)absorption compared to other cereal crops,leading to elevated daily Cd intake,and posing a significant threat to public health.For the mitigation of Cd stress in sustainable and environmentally friendly way,a pot study was designed by using exogenous application of various biostimulants,i.e.,Nigella sativa and Ocimum sanctum extracts:0%,10%,and 20%in combination with the chelating agent ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid(EDTA)using 0 and 5 mg kg^(-1) under various levels of Cd stress(i.e.,0,5,10,and 15 mg kg^(-1) soil).Results revealed that Cd stress significantly reduced the seed emergence,growth,root,and allometric characters and yield-related parameters of wheat crops.The most observable reduc-tion was documented in wheat plants exposed to a higher Cd concentration(15 mg kg^(-1)),followed by the lower Cd level(control).The combined application of bio-stimulants and EDTA minimized the negative impacts of Cd stress.The highest increase in seedling emergence(5.44%),leaf area(50.60%),number of tillers(31.02%),grain yield per plant(24.28%),biological yield(13.97%),and decrease in Cd levels in grains(40%)was noticed where 20%foliar application of N.sativa and 10%of O.sanctum biostimulants were done using 5 mg kg^(-1) of soil-applied EDTA.This intervention demonstrated a notable reduction in Cd-induced negative effects,highlighting the potential of these substances in promoting sustainable wheat cultivation in contaminated environments.Moreover,it is an eco-friendly and approachable method at thefield level able to ensure food safety.

A perspective review on the biosynthesis of plant-based secondary metabolites and their application as potent drugs

Many phytochemicals and their derived metabolites produced by plants are extensively employed in commercial goods,pharmaceutical products as well as in the environmental and medicalfields.However,these secondary metabolites obtained from plants are in low amounts,and it is difficult to synthesize them at the industrial level.Despite these challenges,they may be utilized for a variety of medicinal products that are either available in the market or are being researched and tested.Secondary metabolites are complex compounds that exhibit chirality.Further,under controlled conditions with elicitors,desired secondary metabolites may be produced from plant cell cultures.This review emphasizes the various aspects of secondary metabolites including their types,synthesis,and applications as medicinal products.The article aims to promote the use of plant secondary metabolites in the management and treatment of various diseases.

Utilization of Nanomaterials as Anode Modifiers for Improving Microbial Fuel Cells Performance

Microbial fuel cells(MFCs)are an attractive innovation at the nexus of energy and water security for the future.MFC utilizes electrochemically active microorganisms to oxidize biodegradable substrates and generate bioelectricity in a single step.The material of the anode plays a vital role in increasing the MFC’s power output.The anode in MFC can be upgraded using nanomaterials providing benefits of exceptional physicochemical properties.The nanomaterials in anode gives a high surface area,improved electron transfer promotes electroactive biofilm.Enhanced power output in terms of Direct current(DC)can be obtained as the consequence of improved microbe-electrode interaction.However,several limitations like complex synthesis and degeneration of property do exist in the development of nanomaterial-based anode.The present review discusses different renewable nanomaterial applied in the anode to recover bioelectricity in MFC.Carbon nanomaterials have emerged in the past decade as promising materials for anode construction.Composite materials have also demonstrated the capacity to become potential anode materials of choice.Application of a few transition metal oxides have been explored for efficient extracellular electron transport(EET)from microbes to the anode.

Recent trends in stem cell-based therapies and applications of artificial intelligence in regenerative medicine

Stem cells are undifferentiated cells that can self-renew and differentiate into diverse types of mature and functional cells while maintaining their original identity.This profound potential of stem cells has been thoroughly investigated for its significance in regenerative medicine and has laid the foundation for cellbased therapies.Regenerative medicine is rapidly progressing in healthcare with the prospect of repair and restoration of specific organs or tissue injuries or chronic disease conditions where the body’s regenerative process is not sufficient to heal.In this review,the recent advances in stem cell-based therapies in regenerative medicine are discussed,emphasizing mesenchymal stem cell-based therapies as these cells have been extensively studied for clinical use.Recent applications of artificial intelligence algorithms in stem cell-based therapies,their limitation,and future prospects are highlighted.

Comparative analysis of Nε-carboxymethyl-lysine and inflammatory markers in diabetic and non-diabetic coronary artery disease patients

BACKGROUND Coronary artery disease(CAD)is a major cause of death worldwide,and India contributes to about one-fifth of total CAD deaths.The development of CAD has been linked to the accumulation of Nε-carboxymethyl-lysine(CML)in heart muscle,which correlates with fibrosis.AIM To assess the impact of CML and inflammatory markers on the biochemical and cardiovascular characteristics of CAD patients with and without diabetes.METHODS We enrolled 200 consecutive CAD patients who were undergoing coronary angiography and categorized them into two groups based on their serum glycosylated hemoglobin(HbA1c)levels(group I:HbA1c≥6.5;group II:HbA1c<6.5).We analyzed the levels of lipoproteins,plasma HbA1c levels,CML,interleukin-6(IL-6),tumor necrosis factor alpha(TNF-α),and nitric oxide.RESULTS Group I (81 males and 19 females) patients had a mean age of 54.2 ± 10.2 years, with a mean diabetes duration of4.9 ± 2.2 years. Group II (89 males and 11 females) patients had a mean age of 53.2 ± 10.3 years. Group I had moresevere CAD, with a higher percentage of patients with single vessel disease and greater stenosis severity in the leftanterior descending coronary artery compared to group II. Group I also exhibited a larger left atrium diameter.Group I patients exhibited significantly higher levels of CML, TNF-α, and IL-6 and lower levels of nitric oxide ascompared with group II patients. Additionally, CML showed a significant positive correlation with IL-6 (r = 0.596,P = 0.001) and TNF-α (r = 0.337, P = 0.001) and a negative correlation with nitric oxide (r=-4.16, P = 0.001). Oddsratio analysis revealed that patients with CML in the third quartile (264.43-364.31 ng/mL) were significantlyassociated with diabetic CAD at unadjusted and adjusted levels with covariates.

Controllable Transdermal Drug Delivery of Theobroma cacao Extract Based Polymeric Hydrogel against Dermal Microbial and Oxidative Damage

Human dermal layers are directly bared to the external environmental adversities like pollution, radiation, dust along with various chemical and mechanical stress conditions which constantly lead to the oxidative stress, eventually forming free radicals. These conditions also support the dermal microbial infections by invading the cutaneous layers. Therefore, the most efficient approach accepted globally to combat these complications is to opt for transdermal application of exogenous antioxidants which helps in reducing the ill effects of oxidative stress and promotes the DNA repair. However, many scientific findings exhibited the potential role of Theobroma cacao for providing efficient skin protection. Theobroma cacao known for its vital procyanidin flavonoids, phenolic compounds, methylxanthines, catechin and epicatechin phytoconstituents with numerous health benefits, besides helping in smoothening and softening the damaged skin. These therapeutic benefits of cocoa phytocompounds are attributed to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidative characteristics. This study addresses the fabrication and optimizations of Theobroma cacao extract loaded carbopol hydrogel system for increased antioxidative and antimicrobial effects. It was found in the studies that the hydrogel-based T. cacao extract (TCHG) has significantly improved the therapeutic index of the extract, making it more suitable for transdermal application. The optimized hydrogel was further characterized by physicochemical parameters, SEM analysis and in-vitro release kinetics. The reported findings showed the sustained compound release with comparatively significant antimicrobial activity of TCHG against microbial (Pseudomonas fluorescens, Bacillus licheniformis, Micrococcus luteus, Aspergillus niger, Trichoderma harzianum, Rhizopus oryzae) infections. Also, the higher ROS quenching ability of TCHG as compared to T. cacao extract promises to be an effective transdermal formulation.

Insights on antioxidant therapeutic strategies in type 2 diabetes mellitus:A narrative review of randomized control trials

BACKGROUND Type 2 diabetes mellitus(T2DM)is a metabolic disease of impaired glucose utilization.Imbalance in generation and elimination of free radicals generate oxidative stress which modulates glucose metabolism and insulin regulation,resulting in the occurrence and progression of diabetes and associated complications.Antioxidant supplements in T2DM can be seen as a potential preventive and effective therapeutic strategy.AIM To compare randomized controlled trials(RCTs)in which antioxidants have been shown to have a therapeutic effect in T2DM patients.METHODS We systematically searched the electronic database PubMed by keywords.RCTs evaluating the effect of antioxidant therapy on glycaemic control as well as oxidant and antioxidant status as primary outcomes were included.The outcomes considered were:A reduction in blood glucose;changes in oxidative stress and antioxidant markers.Full-length papers of the shortlisted articles were assessed for the eligibility criteria and 17 RCTs were included.RESULTS The administration of fixed-dose antioxidants significantly reduces fasting blood sugar and glycated hemoglobin and is associated with decreased malondialdehyde,advanced oxidation protein products,and increased total antioxidant capacity.CONCLUSION Antioxidant supplements can be a beneficial approach for the treatment of T2DM.

Development of a Novel Reusable Real Time Monitoring Glucose Sensor Based on Nanostructured Conducting Polyaniline (NSPANI)

A novel mediatorless reusable glucose biosensor with a remarkable shelf life has been fabricated on electrodeposited film of chemically synthesized nanostructured polyaniline (NSPANI) on indium tin oxide (ITO) coated glass plates using cyclic voltammetry. Glucose oxidase has been covalently immobilized on electrodeposited NSPANI film to fabricate a glucose bioelectrode (GOx/NSPANI-SDS/ITO). The results of linear sweep voltammetry and the high value of heterogeneous rate constant as obtained using Laviron equation indicates that GOx/NSPANI-SDS/ITO bioelectrode can detect glucose in the range of 0.5 to 10.00 mM with high sensitivity of 13.9 μA?mM?1 with a fast response time of 12 seconds. The linear regression analysis of bioelectrode reveals standard deviation and correlation coefficient of 6 μA and 0.994, respectively. The low value of Michaelis-Menten constant (Km) estimated as 0.28 mM using Lineweaver-Burke plot indicates high affinity of glucose oxidase enzyme to glucose and transfer rate. The GOx/NSPANI-SDS/ITO bioelectrode exhibits uniform activity for 12 weeks under refrigerated conditions;however the study is further going on. Attempts have been made to utilize this electrode for estimation of glucose in blood serum and results are found to be within 11% error. The unique features of this novel electrode lie on its reusability, real time monitoring, reproducibility and remarkable shelf life apart from the wide linear range, high sensitivity, low Km value, high heterogeneous electron-transfer constant etc.

Rapid Method for Isolation of PCR Amplifiable Genomic DNA of <i>Ralstonia solanacearum</i>Infested in Potato Tubers

The aim of the present study was to develop a very fast and simple genomic DNA isolation method for Ralstonia solanacearum which infest potato tubers. One hundred potato tubers were collected and ten composite samples were prepared having 10 tubers each. Four different DNA isolation methods were used for bacterial genomic DNA isolation present in tubers. PCR with R. solanacearum specific primers and pathogenicity tests were performed. Out of four methods two gave PCR amplifiable DNA. The simplest method was boiling the cell lysate for 5 min, vortexing for 2 min then extraction with phenol chloroform method. This method provides significant amount of DNA which is free from contaminants thus rendering the DNA amicable to PCR amplification. The developed method would be useful for quick and sensitive detection of this pathogen in seed potatoes and would be beneficial to stop the further spread of pathogen.

Biomarkers of oxidative stress in erythrocytes as a function of human age

Despite more than 300 theories to explain the aging process, oxidative stress theory offers the best mechanism to explain aging and age related disorders. Several studies has shown the importance of oxidative stress during aging. Pub Med, Science Direct and Springer online data bases are taken into consideration to write this mini-review. Human erythrocytes are most abundant and specialized cells in the body. Erythrocytes were extensively studied due to their metabolism and gas transport functions. Recent studies on erythrocytes have provided us detailed information of cell membrane and its structural organization that may help in studying the aging and age associated changes. The susceptibility of an organism is associated with the antioxidant potential of the body. Erythrocytes have potent antioxidant protection consisting of enzymatic and nonenzymatic pathways that counteract with reactive oxygen species, thus maintaining the redox regulation in the body. The non-enzymatic and enzymatic antioxidants and other biomarkers associated with erythrocyte membrane transport functions are the main content of this review. Biomarkers of oxidative stress in erythrocytes and its membrane were taken into the consideration during human aging that will be the main subject of this minireview.

<i>In-Silico</i>Validation and Development of Chlorogenic Acid (CGA) Loaded Polymeric Nanoparticle for Targeting Neurodegenerative Disorders

Background: Recent decades witnessed a significant growth in terms of phytocompounds based therapeutics, extensively explored for almost all types of existing disorders. They have also been widely investigated in Neurodegenerative disorders (NDDs) and Chlorogenic acid (CGA), a polyphenolic compound having potential anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative properties, emerged as a promising compound in ameliorating NDDs. Owing to its poor stability, bioavailability and release kinetics, CGA needed a suitable nanocarrier based pharmaceutical design for targeting NDDs. Objective: The current study is aimed at the in-silico validation of CGA as an effective therapeutic agent targeting various NDDs followed by the fabrication of polymeric nanoparticles-based carrier system to overcome its pharmacological limitations and improve its stability. Methods: A successful in-silico validation using molecular docking techniques along with synthesis of CGA loaded polymeric nanoparticles (CGA-NPs) by ionic gelation method was performed. The statistical optimisation of the developed CGA-NPs was done by Box Behnken method and then the optimized formulation of CGA-NPs was characterised using particle size analysis (PSA), Transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Fourier Transform Infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) along with in-vitro release kinetics analysis. Results & Conclusion: The results attained exhibited average particle size of 101.9 ± 1.5 nm, Polydispersibility (PDI) score of 0.065 and a ZP of −17.4 mV. On a similar note, TEM results showed a size range of CGA-NPs between 90 - 110 nm with a spherical shape of NPs. Also, the data from in-vitro release kinetics showed a sustained release of CGA from the NPs following the first-order kinetics suggesting the appropriate designing of nanoformulation.

Synthesis and Characterization of <i>Citrus limonum</i>Essential Oil Based Nanoemulsion and Its Enhanced Antioxidant Activity with Stability for Transdermal Application

Lemon oil (LO), also known as Citrus limonum is a highly volatile essential oil (EO) with potential therapeutic properties like anti-oxidative, anti-proliferative, anti-fungal and anti-cancerous. However, the efficacy of LO is limited due to its physiological factors such as high volatility, poor stability (particularly sensitive to sunlight) and quick degradability upon exposure. To overcome these challenges, we formulated lemon oil loaded nanoemulsion system (LO-NE) (oil-in-water), using aqueous titration method. The formulation comprised of lemon oil (LO), Tween 80 and ethanol as oil, surfactant and co-surfactant phases respectively. The existence zone of NE was established by constructing pseudo-ternary phase diagrams using different concentrations of LO, surfactant and co-surfactant (Smix). The quantitative estimation of LO was performed using a high throughput gas chromatography, revealing the presence of various compounds like Limonene, Alpha-Pinene and Linalyl acetate followed by the estimation of total phenolics and flavonoid content. The characterization of LO-NE indicated the particle size of 60 ± 2.5 nm along with the polydispersity index of 0.125 and zeta potential of −14.9 mV. The size range of the NE particles dispersed in the colloidal system was further verified by TEM micrograph which shows size range between 46.2 - 104.7 nm. All the anti-oxidant assays outcomes exhibited the higher activity of LO-NE in comparison to LO alone with lower IC50 values. The release kinetics statistical data showed that LO-NE had a sustained release and followed the Higuchi’s model in comparison to burst release of LO alone. Lastly, the stability analysis of the optimised formulation (LO-NE) and LO was estimated through antioxidant assay and subjecting them for thermodynamic stability after 6 months. The results attained, showed higher stability and anti-oxidant capability of LO-NE than LO alone. The study suggested that formulated nanoemulsion can be effectively used as a highly efficacious biologically active alternative nanoformulation against many transdermal disorders.

Natural product-based treatment potential for type 2 diabetes mellitus and cardiovascular disease

BACKGROUND Type 2 diabetes(T2D)is a metabolic disease of impaired glucose utilization and a major cause of cardiovascular disease(CVD).The pathogenesis of both diseases shares common risk factors and mechanisms,and both are significant contributors to global morbidity and mortality.Supplements of natural products for T2D mellitus(T2DM)and CVD can be seen as a potential preventive and effective therapeutic strategy.AIM To critically evaluate the therapeutic potential of natural products in T2D and coronary artery disease(CAD).METHODS By using specific keywords,we strategically searched the PubMed database.Randomized controlled trials(RCTs)were searched as the primary focus that examined the effect of natural products on glycemic control,oxidative stress,and antioxidant levels.We focused on outcomes such as low blood glucose levels,adjustment on markers of oxidative stress and antioxidants.After screening fulllength papers,we included 9 RCTs in our review that met our inclusion criteria.RESULTS In the literature search on the database,we found that various natural products like plant secondary metabolites play a diverse role in the management of CAD.American ginseng,sesame oil and cocoa flavanols proved effective in lowering blood glucose levels and controlling blood pressure,which are key factors in managing T2DM and CVD.In diabetic patients Melissa officinalis effectively reduce inflammation and shows diabetes prevention.Both fish oil and flaxseed oil reduced insulin levels and inflammatory markers,suggesting benefits for both conditions.The lipid profile and endothelial function were enhanced by Nigella sativa oil and Terminalia chebula,which is significant for the management of cardiovascular risk factors in T2DM.Additionally Bilberry extract also showed promise for improving glycemic control in patients with T2DM.CONCLUSION The high level of antioxidant,anti-inflammatory,and anti-angiogenic properties found in natural products makes them promising therapeutic options for the management of CAD,with the potential benefit of lowering the risk of CAD.

Indian perspective on childhood malnutrition:Prevalence,pathophysiology,risk factors,and prevention

BACKGROUND Childhood malnutrition contributes over half of the childhood mortality around the world,predominantly in South-Asian and sub-Saharan countries.AIM To summarize the childhood malnutrition epidemiology along with the comorbid factors associated with it and its management within the community.METHODS The data collection process involved conducting a comprehensive search using specific keywords such as child nutrition disorders and India with Boolean operators.The search was conducted in the Scopus and PubMed electronic databases.RESULTS Inadequate energy consumption initiates pathological alterations in the form of growth retardation,fat,visceral,and muscle loss,a reduction in basal metabolic rate,and a significant reduction in total energy expenditure.It has become evident that malnutrition shows an increased prevalence and incidence rate,despite available guidelines for the management of malnutrition.CONCLUSION Malnutrition can be a major player in the establishment of severe infections that result in significant post discharge mortalities in children.Future trials are required to fill the prime gaps in knowledge regarding the identification of other contributory factors in the pathogenesis of malnutrition and postdischarge infection.New biomarkers for early detection of malnutrition should be the priority of the scientific community for the early management of malnutrition.

A Comprehensive Review on Oxygen Reduction Reaction in Microbial Fuel Cells

The focus of microbial fuel cell research in recent years has been on the development of materials,microbes,and transfer of charges in the system,resulting in a substantial improvement in current density and improved power generation.The cathode is generally recognized as the limiting factor due to its high-distance proton transfer,slow oxygen reduction reaction(ORR),and expensive materials.The heterogeneous reaction determines power gen-eration in MFC.This comprehensive review describes-recent advancements in the development of cathode mate-rials and catalysts associated with ORR.The recent studies indicated the utilization of different metal oxides,the ferrite-based catalyst to overcome this bottleneck.These studies conclude that some cathode materials,in parti-cular,graphene-based conductive polymer composites with non-precious metal catalysts provide substantial ben-efits for sustainable development in the field of MFCs.Furthermore,it also highlights the potentiality to replace the conventional platinum air cathode for the large-scale production of the next generation of MFCs.It was evi-dent from the experiments that cathode catalyst needs to be blended with conductive carbon materials to make cathode conductive and efficient for ORR.This review discusses various antifouling strategies for cathode biofoul-ing and its effect on the MFC performance.Moreover,it also depicts cost estimations of various catalysts essential for further scale-up of MFC technology.

Raman spectroscopy as a promising noninvasive tool in brain cancer detection

Despite intensive therapy regi men,brain cancers present with a poor prognosis,with an esti-mated median survival time of less than 15 months in case of glioblastoma.Early detection and improved surgical resctions are suggested to enhance prognosis;several tools are being explored to achieve the purpose.Raman spectroscopy(RS),a nondestructive and noninv asive technique,has been extensively explored in brain cancers.This review summarizes RS based studies in brain cancers,categorized into studies on animal models,ex tivo human samples,and in tito human subjects.Findings suggest RS as a promising tool which can aid in improving the accuracy of brain tumor surgery.Further adv ancements in instrumentation,market assessment,and clinical trials can facilitate translation of the technology as a noninvasive intraopenative guidance tool.

Conservation Strategy for African Medicinal Species: In Vitro Biotechnological Approach

The use of medicinal plants for different therapeutic values is well documented in African continent.African diverse biodiversity hotspots provide a wide range of endemic species,which ensures a potential medicinal value.The feasible conservation approach and sustainable harvesting for the medicinal species remains a huge challenge.However,conservation approach through different biotechnological tools such as micropropagation,somatic embryogenesis,synthetic seed production,hairy root culture,molecular markers based study and cryopreservation of endemic African medicinal species is much crucial.In this review,an attempt has been made to provide different in vitro biotechnological approaches for the conservation of African medicinal species.The present review will be helpful in further technology development and deciding the priorities at decision-making levels for in vitro conservation and sustainable use of African medicinal species.

Prospects and advancements in C-reactive protein detection

C-reactive protein(CRP) is one of the earliest proteins that appear in the blood circulation in most systemic inflammatory conditions and this is the reason for its significance,even after identification of many organ specific inflammatory markers which appear relatively late during the course of disease.Earlier methods of CRP detection were based on the classical methods of antigen-antibody interaction through precipitation and agglutination reactions.Later on,CRP based enzymatic assays came into the picture which were further modified by integration of an antigen-antibody detection system with surface plasma spectroscopy.Then came the time for the development of electrochemical biosensors where nanomaterials were used to make a highly sensitive and portable detection system based on silicon nanowire,metal-oxide-semiconductor field-effect transistor/bipolar junction transistor,ZnS nanoparticle,aptamer,field emission transmitter,vertical flow immunoassay etc.This editorial attempts to summarize developments in the field of CRP detection,with a special emphasis on biosensor technology.This would help in translating the latest development in CRP detection in the clinical diagnosis of inflammatory conditions at an early onset of the diseases.