The influence of exogenous amines on the electrochemical CO2 reduction activity of a cobalt-pyridyldiimine catalyst.

Studying the interactions between CO2 sorbents and electrocatalysts for the electrochemical CO2 reduction reaction (e-CO2RR) can offer viable strategies to advance the development of the Reactive Capture of CO2 (RCC). In this report we studied the effect of amines on the performance of the [Co(PDI-Py)] catalyst for the e-CO2RR. The presence of amines shifts the onset potential for the e-CO2RR more positive and increases the catalytic activity while maintaining the high Faradaic efficiency (≥90%) for CO production.

Exploring the bio-mechanical behavior of PEEK and CFR-PEEK materials for dental implant applications using finite element analysis.

PURPOSE: This study explored the bio-mechanical properties of polyether ether ketone (PEEK) and carbon fiber reinforced-PEEK (CFR-PEEK) as potential alternatives to traditional dental implant materials, such as titanium (Ti) and zirconia (ZrO2). Conventional implant materials often exhibit stress shielding leading to peri-implant bone loss and implant failure. STUDY SELECTION: Finite element analysis using a three-dimensional computer-aided-design (3D CAD) model of the jawbone with various implant materials (titanium, zirconia, PEEK, and CFR-PEEK) incorporated was implemented to assess the effectiveness of PEEK and CFR-PEEK. Two loading conditions (50 and 100 N) were applied in centric (case-1) and eccentric (case-2) to mimic the oral loading conditions. RESULTS: Titanium and zirconia implants were found to exhibit higher levels of stress shielding and therefore pose greater risks of bone loss and implant failure. Conversely, CFR-PEEK implants demonstrated more-uniform stress distributions that reduce the likelihood of stress shielding compared to their conventional counterparts; consequently, CFR-PEEK implants are particularly suitable for load-bearing applications. Furthermore, maximum strain values on PEEK-implanted cortical bone reached a state of adaptation, referred to as the "lazy zone" in which bone growth and bone loss rates are equal, indicating PEEK's potential for a long-term implant utilization. CONCLUSIONS: PEEK and CFR-PEEK implants are promising alternatives to conventional dental implants because they provide stress shielding and promote bone health. Improved stress distribution enhances long-term success and durability while mitigating complications, and highlights their applicability to dental implant procedures.

Bimatoprost-loaded lipidic nanoformulation development using quality by design: liposomes versus solid lipid nanoparticles in intraocular pressure reduction.

Background: Bimatoprost is a drug used to lower intraocular pressure in the treatment of glaucoma. Conventional eye drops have the limitations of repeated dosing, drug loss due to tear outflow and hence poor availability for action. Materials & methods: Using a systematic quality by design approach, liposomes and solid lipid nanoparticles were formulated and further encapsulated in thermo-sensitive in situ hydrogel. Results & conclusion: Optimized liposomes had 87.04% encapsulation efficiency and 306.78 nm mean particle size, while solid lipid nanoparticles had 90.51% and 304.21 nm. Bimatoprost liposomes had controlled zero-order drug kinetics and no initial burst release, making them better than solid lipid nanoparticles. Bimatoprost-loaded liposomes in thermo-sensitive hydrogel decreased intraocular pressure for 18 h.

Novel formulations for topical delivery of tranexamic acid: assessing the need of epidermal targeting for hyperpigmentation disorders.

INTRODUCTION: Tranexamic acid is used for the treatment of hyperpigmentation, and the topical route is the most favorable route for its administration. Tranexamic acid lowers plasmin and tyrosinase, which reduces melanin and skin hyperpigmentation. Low penetration through the outer layer of skin and low availability at target melanocyte cells limit tranexamic acid topical administration. Different novel delivery systems like liposomes, microneedles, topical beads, and microparticles can help in overcoming these limitations. AREAS COVERED: The mechanism of action of tranexamic acid and novel delivery systems for its topical delivery have been discussed. Further, patents related to the topical delivery of tranexamic acid and clinical trials undertaken to analyze their potential have been discussed. EXPERT OPINION: Targeting tranexamic acid in the epidermal layer makes more amount of drug available for action on melanocytes, the target site for tranexamic acid. Novel drug delivery formulations like liposomes, solid lipid nanoparticles, nano-lipidic carriers, and topical beads have the potential of achieving epidermal targeting. Epidermal targeting of tranexamic acid can help in the superior delivery of the drug, making its topical treatment more efficient.

Approach to the Synthesis of gem-Thiolated Alkylboronates via Cobalt-Catalyzed Diboration of Aldehydes.

A new method has been developed for the sequential gem-thioborylation of readily available aldehydes via the cobalt-catalyzed diboration reaction. The N-heterocyclic carbene (NHC)-cobalt complex has been used as a catalyst for the diboration of aldehydes to generate α-oxyl boronic esters, which react with lithium thiolates to form a tetracoordinate boronate species, which undergoes 1,2-metalate rearrangement in the presence of trifluoroacetic anhydride. The stepwise functionalization of the boryl and thiol moiety of the products enriches the chemical toolbox of diverse organic synthesis.

Cobalt-Catalyzed Regioselective 1,2-Hydroboration of N-Heteroarenes.

Regioselective hydroboration of pyridines to 1,2-dihydropyridines remains a significant challenge for the synthesis of valuable nitrogenous bioactive molecules. Herein, we report a base free ligand-controlled cobalt-catalyzed 1,2-hydroboration of pyridines and quinolines with very low catalyst loading under neat reaction conditions. The choice of sterically demanding N-heterocyclic ligands led to the 1,2-regioselectivity and the scope was demonstrated by the N-heterocycles having a variety of functional groups. The preliminary mechanistic studies corroborate that the two ligands followed a distinct catalytic cycle with Co(I) as an active species.

Luminescence studies of binding affinity of vildagliptin with bovine serum albumin.

Vildagliptin (VDG)is a frontier drug for diabetes mellitus. It is prescribed both in the monotherapy as well as in an amalgamation with other antidiabetic drugs. Drug-serum protein binding is an essential parameter which influences ADME properties of the drug. In current study, binding of VDG with serum protein (bovine serum albumin: BSA) was investigated using multi-spectroscopic techniques. A computational approach was also employed to identify the binding affinity of VDG with BSA at both Sudlow I and II sites. An enzyme activity assay specific for esterase was also investigated to know the post-binding consequences of VDG with BSA. Fluorescence spectra of BSA samples treated with VDG shows static quenching with binding parameters for VDG-BSA complex show single class of equivalent binding stoichiometry(n = 1.331) and binding constant 1.1 x 104M-1 at 298.15 K. The binding constant indicates important role of non-polar interactions in the binding process. Fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) analysis of VDG absorption spectra and emission spectrum of BSA confirmed no significant resonance in energy transfer. Synchronous fluorescence of BSA after binding with VDG show maximum changes in emission intensity at tryptophan (Trp) residues. Post binding with VDG, BSA conformation changes as suggested by circular dichorism (CD) spectra of BSA and this lead to enhanced protein stability as indicated by a thermal melting curve of BSA.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.

Recent updates on nano-phyto-formulations based therapeutic intervention for cancer treatment.

Cancer is a leading cause of death globally, with limited treatment options and several limitations. Chemotherapeutic agents often result in toxicity which long-term conventional treatment. Phytochemicals are natural constituents that are more effective in treating various diseases with less toxicity than the chemotherapeutic agents providing alternative therapeutic approaches to minimize the resistance. These phytoconstituents act in several ways and deliver optimum effectiveness against cancer. Nevertheless, the effectiveness of phyto-formulations in the management of cancers may be constrained due to challenges related to inadequate solubility, bioavailability, and stability. Nanotechnology presents a promising avenue for transforming current cancer treatment methods through the incorporation of phytochemicals into nanosystems, which possess a range of advantageous characteristics such as biocompatibility, targeted and sustained release capabilities, and enhanced protective effects. This holds significant potential for future advancements in cancer management. Herein, this review aims to provide intensive literature on diverse nanocarriers, highlighting their applications as cargos for phytocompounds in cancer. Moreover, it offers an overview of the current advancements in the respective field, emphasizing the characteristics that contribute to favourable outcomes in both in vitro and in vivo settings. Lastly, clinical development and regulatory concerns are also discussed to check on the transformation of the concept as a promising strategy for combination therapy of phytochemicals and chemotherapeutics that could lead to cancer management in the future.

Blood pressure normalizing effect of Talahridaya marma therapy: A case report.

Ancient Ayurvedic literature described 107 vital regions of the body and considered them as a seat of prana (life force) and collectively termed them as marma. The applied aspect of this concept, marma chikitsa or marma therapy, is gaining popularity as it is being practiced by many clinicians in which these marma are stimulated in different ways to treat different diseases. Hypertension is one of the major disorders affecting majority of the world population. Inspite of available antihypertensive therapies, the hypertensive population of not only the older age group, but also of that of young adults is increasing. Blood pressure normalising effect of marma therapy is observed by clinicians practicing marma therapy due to its holistic effect on the body. Clinical data regarding efficacy of this therapy is very sparse and hence, its application in different diseases remained unexplored till date. This case report is of a young hypertensive male whose blood pressure significantly improved with Talahridaya marma therapy. This patient was detected with raised blood pressure on repetitive examinations. The volunteer was subjected to Talahridayamarma therapy where his classical Talahridaya marma point on left upper limb was physically stimulated in controlled way for 10 days and the patient was also taught to perform the therapy on himself. The blood pressure was recorded, both before and after giving the therapy on each day. The volunteer showed significant improvement in his blood pressure recordings.

Homolytic cleavage of diboron(4) compounds using diazabutadiene derivatives.

Diazabutadiene derivatives have been identified as a distinct class of reagents, capable of cleaving B-B bonds of diboron(4). The cleavage is accompanied by the formation of a new C[double bond, length as m-dash]C bond and the product geometry is highly dependent on the substituents on the DAB units. Preliminary mechanistic investigations suggest a concerted mechanism and the absence of any radical intermediates.

Mini-Clinical Evaluation Exercise as a Tool for Formative Assessment of Postgraduates in Psychiatry.

CONTEXT: Introduction of competency-based medical education in India has necessitated a diversion from traditional methods of teaching and assessment. AIM: The aim of this study was to assess the feasibility and acceptability of mini-clinical evaluation exercise (mini-CEX) as a tool for formative assessment of postgraduates in psychiatry at our institute. SETTINGS AND DESIGN: It was a prospective, quasi-experimental study carried out in the Department of Psychiatry, PGIMS, Rohtak (India). MATERIALS AND METHODS: After obtaining written informed consent, trainees (18) were sensitized and faculty members (5) were trained to use mini-CEX and regarding the feedback process with the help of workshops. STATISTICAL ANALYSIS USED: Data collected were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Mean differences between the sessions were assessed using a paired sample t-test. P < 0.05 was considered as level of significance. RESULTS: Statistically significant difference was found between session 1 and session 6 for counseling skills but not for three sessions of diagnostic skills. Mini-CEX was accepted as a better learning method by 61% of the postgraduates, 36% felt that it improved their clinical skills, 64% reported a boost in their confidence, and 89% looked forward to these encounters. Majority of the postgraduates and faculty members suggested that the mini-CEX should be regularly used in academic settings and should be introduced early in the training. CONCLUSIONS: Mini-CEX is a feasible formative assessment tool for postgraduates in psychiatry and an effective method of learning by the postgraduates, inducing a significant improvement in the counseling skills of students. Teaching faculty also accepted mini-CEX as an effective method of formative assessment.

A Case of Ruptured Perineal Epidermal Cyst.

Epidermal cysts are common skin lesions. They are usually seen in the chronic sun-exposed areas of the skin. They can get complicated by inflammation, infection, rupture, or malignancy. Epidermal cyst in the perineal region is rare. We report a case of an infected ruptured perineal epidermal cyst mimicking gluteal abscess. The patient was successfully treated by complete surgical excision. Histology revealed epidermal cyst with foreign body giant cell reaction and no evidence of malignancy.

Cobalt(I)-Catalyzed Borylation of Unactivated Alkyl Bromides and Chlorides.

A cobalt-complex-catalyzed borylation of a wide range of alkyl halides with a diboron reagent (B2pin2 or B2neop2) has been developed under mild reaction conditions, demonstrating the first cobalt-mediated cross-coupling with alkyl electrophiles. This protocol allows alkyl boronic esters to be accessed from alkyl halides, including alkyl chlorides, which were used rarely as coupling partners. Mechanistic studies reveal the possible involvement of an alkyl radical intermediate in this cobalt-mediated catalytic cycle.

Markovnikov-Selective Co(I)-Catalyzed Hydroboration of Vinylarenes and Carbonyl Compounds.

An NHC-supported Co(I) catalyst has been developed for selective Markovnikov hydroboration of vinylarenes under mild reaction conditions. The hydroboration allows highly selective synthesis of a wide range of secondary and tertiary alkyl boronates in excellent yields. Our protocol also enables hydroboration of aldehydes and ketones with diverse functional groups to access the corresponding borate esters.

Lewis acid catalysis: regioselective hydroboration of alkynes and alkenes promoted by scandium triflate.

The first commercially available scandium-catalysed selective hydroboration of alkynes and alkenes with HBpin (pin = OC-Me2CMe2O) in the presence of a catalytic amount of NaHBEt3 has been developed. This protocol can be applicable to a wide range of substrates including aromatic, aliphatic with cyclic and acyclic side chains, and heteroaryl systems with broad functional-group compatibility. Mechanistic studies revealed that the reaction occurs in a syn fashion via the σ-bond metathesis between the alkenyl scandium species and HBpin.

A nano-catalytic approach for C-B bond formation reactions.

Herein, we present a chronological survey of the metal/metal oxide nanoparticle-catalysed borylation reactions. Transition metal-catalysed borylation is considered to be one of the most efficient methods for the synthesis of organoboron derivatives. Considering chemical and pharmaceutical processes, the major drawbacks of homogeneous catalysis are metal contamination in products and inability to recover catalysts for reuse, which limit its application industrially, in biomolecules, and materials science. The use of nanoparticles as heterogeneous catalysts is a current topic of research to overcome these limitations. This review gives an overview of the metal nanoparticle-catalysed borylation reactions and also discusses the reaction mechanisms.

MovAid- a novel device for advanced rehabilitation monitoring.

The present article introduces a new device "MovAid" which helps to measure and monitor rehabilitation. It has two main components- "MovAid device" and the "MovAid Smart Phone Application". The device connects wirelessly to the MovAid smart phone application via Bluetooth. It has electronic sensors to measure three important parameters of the patient- Angle of Joint Bent, Lift from the ground and Orientation of the limb. A mono-axis flex sensor to measure the degree of joint bent and a 3-axis accelerometer and gyroscope to measure the orientation of the limb and lift from the ground have been used. MovAid system bridges the gap between caretakers and patients, empowering both in ways never thought of before, by providing detailed and accurate data on every move.

Rough-smooth-rough dynamic interface growth in supported lipid bilayers.

The role of lipid bilayer viscoelasticity and the substrate-bilayer interactions on the spreading behavior of supported phospholipid bilayer membranes is studied using fluorescence microscopy. Unlike the monotonic roughening observed on silica or in other dynamic interface growth systems, a unique rough-smooth-rough (RSR) interface transition occurred on chromium oxide with a roughness exponent of 0.45 ± 0.04. This RSR transition is attributed to the elasticity of the lipid bilayer which is initially under compression due to surface interactions, and is well approximated by adding an elastic term to the quenched noise Edwards-Wilkinson equation. A phase diagram depicting the conditions necessary to observe RSR transitions in dynamic interface systems is derived, revealing the classes of dynamically evolving systems is broader than previously thought, and the viscoelastic nature of the lipid bilayer may play a role in supported membrane behavior.