Parental factors predicting social deviance and psychological outcomes in offspring: Evidence from the Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children (ALSPAC).

Objective: The objective of the present study was to examine whether exposure to prenatal psychoactive substances is associated with psychological outcomes and deviant behaviour. Methods: This was a secondary analysis of 7,769 mother-child dyads in the Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children (ALSPAC) who were followed until the children were aged approximately 12 years. Parental characteristics and maternal use of various substances were collected in pregnancy and entered as predictors of psychological outcomes in childhood and deviant behaviours in early adolescence. The psychological outcomes were IQ, social cognition, working memory and inhibition, while the deviant behaviours were threatening others, truancy and cruelty to animals. Weighted logistic regression models were used to predict deviant behaviours and weighted linear regression for the psychological outcomes. Results: High prenatal alcohol exposure predicted truancy and cruelty to animals. Tobacco exposure predicted lower IQ, a greater social communication deficit, lower working memory, truancy and threatening others. Illicit drugs predicted a higher social communication deficit and truancy. All prenatal substance exposures remained significant after adjustment for peer influences and covariate imbalance. Conclusion: Alcohol, tobacco and illicit drugs were associated with deviant behaviours in early adolescence and these behaviours were preceded by psychological deficits in childhood. The present study supports the guideline that no amount of alcohol is safe to consume in pregnancy and that tobacco and illicit drugs should be avoided.

Effect of quercetin-loaded poly (lactic-co-glycolic) acid nanoparticles on lipopolysaccharide-induced memory decline, oxidative stress, amyloidogenesis, neurotransmission, and Nrf2/HO-1 expression.

Neuroinflammation contributes to the pathogenesis of several neurodegenerative disorders. This study examined the neuroprotective effect of quercetin (QUR)-loaded poly (lactic-co-glycolic) acid (PLGA) nanoparticles (QUR NANO) against the neurotoxicity induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in mice. A QUR NANO formulation was prepared and characterized by differential scanning calorimetry, X-ray diffraction, entrapment efficiency (EE), high-resolution transmission electron microscopy, field emission scanning electron microscopy, and in vitro drug release profile. Levels of glutathione, malondialdehyde, catalase, inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), amyloid beta 42 (Aß42), ß-secretase, gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), and acetylcholine esterase (AChE) were measured in the mouse brain tissues. The gene expression of nuclear factor erythroid-related factor 2 (Nrf-2) and heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) were also determined. The prepared QUR NANO formulation showed 92.07 ± 3.21% EE and drug loading of 4.62 ± 0.55. It exhibited clusters of nano-spherical particles with smooth surface areas, and the loading process was confirmed. In vivo, the QUR NANO preserved the spatial memory of mice and protected the hippocampus from LPS-induced histological lesions. The QUR NANO significantly reduced the levels of malondialdehyde, iNOS, Aß42, ß-secretase, and AChE in brain tissue homogenates. Conversely, QUR NANO increased the glutathione, catalase, and GABA concentrations and upregulated the expression of Nrf-2 and HO-1 genes. Remarkably, the neuroprotective effect of QUR NANO was significantly greater than that of herbal QUR. In summary, the prepared QUR NANO formulation was efficient in mitigating LPS-induced neurotoxicity by reducing memory loss, oxidative stress, and amyloidogenesis while preserving neurotransmission and upregulating the expression of Nrf2 and HO-1 genes. This study addresses several key factors in neuroinflammatory disorders and explores the potential of QUR-loaded nanoparticles as a novel therapeutic approach to alleviate these factors.

Naringin-Dextrin Nanocomposite Abates Diethylnitrosamine/Acetylaminofluorene-Induced Lung Carcinogenesis by Modulating Oxidative Stress, Inflammation, Apoptosis, and Cell Proliferation.

Nanotechnology has proven advantageous in numerous scientific applications, one being to enhance the delivery of chemotherapeutic agents. This present study aims to evaluate the mechanisms underlying the chemopreventive action of naringin-dextrin nanocomposites (Nar-Dx-NCs) against diethylnitrosamine (DEN)/2-acetylaminofluorene (2AAF)-induced lung carcinogenesis in male Wistar rats. DEN was administered intraperitoneally (i.p.) (150 mg/kg/week) for two weeks, followed by the oral administration of 2AAF (20 mg/kg) four times a week for three weeks. Rats receiving DEN/2AAF were concurrently treated with naringin or Nar-Dx-NCs orally at a dose of 10 mg/kg every other day for 24 weeks. Naringin and Nar-Dx-NCs treatments prevented the formation of tumorigenic cells within the alveoli of rats exposed to DEN/2AAF. These findings were associated with a significant decrease in lipid peroxidation, upregulation of antioxidant enzyme (glutathione peroxidase and superoxide dismutase) activity, and enhanced glutathione and nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 expression in the lungs. Naringin and Nar-Dx-NCs exerted anti-inflammatory actions manifested by a decrease in lung protein expression of tumor necrosis factor-α and interleukin-1ß and mRNA expression of interleukin-6, interferon-γ, nuclear factor-κB, and inducible nitric oxide synthase, with a concurrent increase in interleukin-10 expression. The anti-inflammatory effect of Nar-Dx-NCs was more potent than naringin. Regarding the effect on apoptosis, both naringin and Nar-Dx-NCs significantly reduced Bcl-2 and increased Bax and P53 expressions. Moreover, naringin or Nar-Dx-NCs induced a significant decrease in the expression of the proliferator marker, Ki-67, and the effect of Nar-Dx-NCs was more marked. In conclusion, Nar-Dx-NCs improved naringin's preventive action against DEN/2AAF-induced lung cancer and exerted anticarcinogenic effects by suppressing oxidative stress and inflammation and improving apoptotic signal induction and propagation.

Protective Effects of Naringin-Dextrin Nanoformula against Chemically Induced Hepatocellular Carcinoma in Wistar Rats: Roles of Oxidative Stress, Inflammation, Cell Apoptosis, and Proliferation.

Nanotechnology holds great promise for the development of treatments for deadly human diseases, such as hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). In the current study, we compared the hepatoprotective effects of naringin-dextrin nanoparticles (NDNPs) against HCC in male Wistar rats with those of pure naringin and investigated the underlying cellular and molecular mechanisms. HCC was induced by intraperitoneal injection of diethylnitrosamine (DEN, 150 mg/kg body weight (b.w.) per week) for two weeks, followed by oral administration of 2-acetylaminofluorene (2AAF, 20 mg/kg b.w.) four times per week for three weeks. DEN/2AAF-administered rats were divided into three groups that respectively received 1% carboxymethyl cellulose (as vehicle), 10 mg/kg b.w. naringin, or 10 mg/kg b.w. NDNP every other day by oral gavage for 24 weeks. Both naringin and NDNP significantly attenuated the harmful effects of DEN on liver function. Both compounds also suppressed tumorigenesis as indicated by the reduced serum concentrations of liver tumor markers, and this antitumor effect was confirmed by histopathological evaluation. Additionally, naringin and NDNP prevented DEN-induced changes in hepatic oxidative stress and antioxidant activities. In addition, naringin and NDNP suppressed inflammation induced by DEN. Moreover, naringin and NDNP significantly reduced the hepatic expression of Bcl-2 and increased Bax, p53, and PDCD5 expressions. Naringin and NDNP also reduced expression of IQGAP1, IQGAP3, Ras signaling, and Ki-67 while increasing expression of IQGAP2. Notably, NDNP more effectively mitigated oxidative stress and inflammatory signaling than free naringin and demonstrated improved antitumor efficacy, suggesting that this nanoformulation improves bioavailability within nascent tumor sites.

Novel Cold Cure Acrylic Denture Base with Recycled Zirconia Nano-Fillers That Were Functionalized by HEMA Agent Incorporation: Using the Sprinkle Approach.

Background: Though acrylic resins possess many useful properties, denture fracture is nevertheless a familiar issue. Objective: This study aimed to determine the effect of low-percent recycled Zirconia nanoparticles as filler on the transverse strength, impact strength, surface hardness, water sorption, and solubility of resin using the sprinkle cold-curing technique. Materials and Methods: Various formulae were prepared and mixed with PMMA (polymer) powder containing varying percentages (0.01%, 0.1%, 0.3%, and 0.5%) of recycled ZrO2NPs to mono-methyl methacrylate (MMA monomer). A 2-hydroxyethyl-methacrylate (HEMA) agent was used to functionalize recycled zirconia (ZrO2) nano-fillers. X-ray diffraction, field emission scanning electron microscopy, high-resolution transmission electron microscopy, energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, and dynamic light scattering were used to characterize the samples. For mechanical tests, standard metallic moulds (according to American Dental Association specification no. 27) were machined for 60 specimens' preparation, 12 for each percent (zero, 0.01%, 0.1%, 0.3%, and 0.5%). A one-way ANOVA test was used to compare the five groups for parametric data, while the Kruskal-Wallis test was employed for nonparametric data. The P 0.05 value was accepted as the significance level. All formulae were tested for cytotoxicity at 24 and 48 hours on WI38 normal lung cell lines. Results: The XRD analysis demonstrated the tetragonal crystallographic structure of the recycled zirconia nanoparticles. Incorporating a low percentage of recycled ZrO2 nanoparticles (0.01%, 0.1%, 0.3%, and 0.5%) improved the tested properties of PMMA to different degrees in a significant and non-significant pattern, while the optimal tested percent was 0.3%. Conclusion: The 0.3% percentage of recycled zirconia nanoparticles maintained and improved the physical and mechanical properties of acrylic resin. Recycled ZrO2/PMMA nanocomposite is a synergistic candidate due to its economic return and clinical application safety.

Therapeutic significance of thymoquinone-loaded chitosan nanoparticles on streptozotocin/nicotinamide-induced diabetic rats: In vitro and in vivo functional analysis.

To overcome the low bioavailability of lipophilic free thymoquinone (TQ), this study aims to evaluate a novel oral formula of TQ-loaded chitosan nanoparticles (TQ-CsNPs) for the effective treatment of diabetes. The XRD, FTIR, FESEM, HRTEM, and dynamic light scattering were all conducted on the prepared formula. The release pattern of TQ, cytotoxicity against MRC-5 cell line (human lung fibroblast cells), and antidiabetic activity on streptozotocin/nicotinamide (STZ/NA) rat model of diabetes were investigated. The results confirmed the formation of TQ-CsNPs with an entrapment efficiency of 75.7 ± 6.52 %, a mean Zetasizer distribution of 84.25 nm, and an average particle size of about 50 nm. After 24 h, the percentage of free TQ-cumulative release was approximately 35.8 %, whereas TQ-CsNPs showed a sustained release pattern of 78.5 %. The investigated formula was not toxic to normal lung cells, and more efficient in ameliorating the altered glycemia, dyslipidemia, inflammation, and oxidative stress induced by STZ/NA than free TQ, blank CsNPs, and metformin-HCl (as a reference drug). Additionally, TQ-CsNPs restored the normal pancreatic islets' configuration and morphometry, suggesting a potent insulinotropic action. In conclusion, the antidiabetic efficacy of TQ was improved by engaging TQ with CsNPs as an excellent nanoplatform to enhance the oral bioavailability of TQ.

Theranostics platform of Abemaciclib using magnetite@silica@chitosan nanocomposite.

The current study was designed to synthesize a nanoformula comprising of magnetite nanoparticles (MN) with mesoporous silica (MS), which was in turn coated with chitosan (CS) and further loaded with a chemotherapeutic agent, Abemaciclib (ABE). The prepared formula, MN@MS@CS@ABE, was characterized by XRD, FTIR, HRTEM, FESEM, DLS, VSM, BET, and BJH. The ABE loading capacity and entrapment efficiency were calculated, and an in vitro drug release experiment was conducted. Cytoxicity was studied by the MTT assay. The formula was investigated as an anticancer agent versus MCF-7 cells by performing Annexin V-FITC flow cytometry and cell cycle analysis. Furthermore, we examine the formula as a contrast agent in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). ABE loading and encapsulation efficiency were 24.2 % and 63.4 %, respectively. The formula demonstrated sustained drug release behavior for 72 h. The MTT assay revealed a higher cytotoxicity of free ABE in MCF-7 cells compared to MN@MS@CS@ABE. Flow cytometry revealed early and late phases of apoptosis and necrosis with different percentages. The formula stimulated a reduction in signal intensity in the MR T2-weighted imaging technique. In conclusion, the current study developed a nanoformula which could be a promising theranostic agent in cancer therapy and diagnosis.

Optimizing the geodetic networks based on the distances between the net points and the project border.

Geodetic networks are important for most engineering projects. Generally, a geodetic network is designed according to precision, reliability, and cost criteria. This paper provides a new criterion considering the distances between the Net Points (NPs) and the Project Border (PB) in terms of Neighboring (N). Optimization based on the N criterion seeks to relocate the NPs as close as possible to PB, which leads to creating shorter distances between NPs or those distances linking NPs with Target Points (TPs) to be measured inside PB. These short distances can improve the precision of NPs and increase the accuracy of observations and transportation costs between NPs themselves or between NPs and TPs (in real applications). Three normalized N objective functions based on L1, L2, and L∞‒norms were formulated to build the corresponding N optimization models, NL1; NL2; and NL∞ and to determine the best solution. Each model is subjected to safety, precision, reliability, and cost constraints. The feasibility of the N criterion is demonstrated by a simulated example. The results showed the ability of NL∞ to determine the safest positions for the NPs near PB. These new positions led to improving the precision of the network and preserving the initial reliability and observations cost, due to contradiction problems. Also, N results created by all N models demonstrate their theoretical feasibility in improving the accuracy of the observations and transportation cost between points. It is recommended to use multi-objective optimization models to overcome the contradiction problem and consider the real application to generalize the benefits of N models in designing the networks.

A novel layered double hydroxide-hesperidin nanoparticles exert antidiabetic, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects in rats with diabetes.

BACKGROUND: Incidence of diabetes has increased significantly worldwide over recent decades. Our objective was to prepare and characterize a novel nano-carrier of hesperidin to achieve a sustained release of hesperidin and to explore the potency of the novel formula as an antidiabetic agent compared to metformin in type 2 diabetic rats. METHODS: Hesperidin was loaded on MgAl-layered double hydroxide (LDH). The formula was characterized using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy, and dynamic light scattering. The release profile of hesperidin and MgAl-LDH-Hesperidin were studied in vitro. The parameters studied in vivo were blood glucose, glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), insulin, lipid profile, and liver glycogen levels. We also investigated the levels of interleukin (IL)-17, tumor necrosis factor-Alfa (TNF-α), malondialdehyde (MDA), catalase, and the mRNA expression of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-gamma (PPARγ) and nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor-2 (NrF2). RESULTS: There were variations in the XRD patterns and FTIR confirming the physical adsorption of hesperidin on the surface of LDH. The results indicated that the diabetic rats treated with administration of antidiabetic formula, MgAl-LDH-Hesperidin, showed a beneficial effect on the levels of blood glucose, insulin, HbA1c%, and lipid profile, comparing to diabetic control rats. The antidiabetic agent also showed a significant decrease in the levels of TNF-α, IL-17, and MDA, and an increase in the level of catalase. Marked upregulation of the expression levels of mRNA for PPARγ and NrF2 were recorded. CONCLUSION: The novel nano-hesperidin formula MgAl-LDH-Hesperidin revealed a sustained release of hesperidin and exhibited antidiabetic, antihyperlipidemic, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties, and also is a promising agent for effective delivery of drugs to treat type 2 diabetes.

Hepatoprotective Effects of Polydatin-Loaded Chitosan Nanoparticles in Diabetic Rats: Modulation of Glucose Metabolism, Oxidative Stress, and Inflammation Biomarkers.

Polydatin (PD) has a broad range of pharmacological activities; however, its effects on diabetic liver damage are poorly studies. This work is aimed to explore possible protective effects of polydatin-loaded chitosan nanoparticles (PD-CSNPs) or PD against liver damage associated with diabetes. Diabetes was induced in rats using nicotinamide/streptozotocin treatment. Diabetic rats were then divided into six groups: normal control rats, diabetic control rats, and rats orally treated with PD, PD-CSNPs, equivalent unloaded CSNPs, or metformin daily for 4 weeks. Treatment with PD and PD-CSNPs significantly reduced the blood glucose content, lipid peroxidation in the liver, and activities of serum transaminases and carbohydrate metabolism enzymes (including succinate dehydrogenase and pyruvate kinase); by contrast, liver glycogen content, glutathione concentration, and activities of the antioxidant enzymes (superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, catalase, and glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase) were markedly increased compared with the control diabetic rats. Furthermore, expression of the tumor necrosis factor α and interleukin-1ß mRNAs was significantly downregulated, while expression of glucose transporter 2 and glucokinase mRNAs was strongly upregulated vs. control diabetic rats. We concluded that PD-CSNPs and PD ameliorate diabetic liver damage by modulating glucose transporter 2 expression, affecting the activity of carbohydrate metabolism enzymes, and suppressing oxidative stress and inflammation, PD-CSNPs being more efficient than PD, probably due to higher bioavailability and prolonged release.

A Highly Cellular Uptake Ternary Nanocomposite Titanate Nano-Tubes/CuFe2O4/Zn-Fe Could Induce Intrinsic Apoptosis of Prostate Cancer Cells: An Extended Study.

Our previously prepared ternary nanocomposite TNT/CuFe2O4/Zn-Fe was highly engulfed by PC-3 cells, activated cytotoxicity that was dosage and time-subordinated, and demonstrated morphological alteration, which is one of the common characteristics of apoptotic cells. This prolonged study aimed to investigate other items. The study performed assays as Annexin V-FITC, flow cytometry, DNA ladder electrophoresis, and ROS assay for apoptosis detection, cell cycle analysis, DNA fragmentation, and ROS generation, respectively. In the PC-3-treated cells, the early and late phases of apoptosis with different percentages and DNA fragmentation were determined. Besides, the PC-3 cell cycle revealed the three major cell distribution different phases of the cycle (G1, S, and G2/M), and the Sub G1, which corresponded to apoptotic cells. The results proved the presence of ROS that triggered the intrinsic apoptotic pathway, which was confirmed through a decrease in (Bcl-2), the release of cytochrome c, activation of caspase-9, and caspase-3. To conclude, the ternary nanocomposite TNT/CuFe2O4/Zn-Fe achieved biochemical features alterations and could induce intrinsic apoptosis of PC-3 cells. The planned work of the current research will illuminate the arrested phase in the cell cycle through studying tumor suppressor genes such as p53 and Retinoblastoma RB, c-Myc oncogene, and cyclin-dependent kinases (Cdks) as well as their regulators.

An Herbal Nanohybrid Formula of Epigallocatechin Gallate-Chitosan-Alginate Efficiently Restrict the Sexual Dysfunction Adverse Effect of ß-Adrenergic Antagonist Drug: Propranolol.

The clinical studies proved the adverse effect of Propranolol on sexual function. Regarding this issue, the key research question of this study was, whether the designed herbal nanohybrid formula EGCG-chitosan-alginate has an efficacy versus Propranolol, or not? The formula was optimized according to the coacervation method. Its molecular structure and characteristics were confirmed. The entrapment efficiency was determined, and the stability, as well in vitro release study was conducted. The in vivo study was conducted for 65 days. To answer the raised question, tissue weights of the testis, epididymis seminal vesicles, and prostate were determined. Oxidative stress markers as MDA and GSH were measured in testis and epididymis, while testosterone in blood serum. The semen analysis was performed. DNA damage was detected according to the comet assay procedures. Conventional pathological examination was done in special concern to testis and epididymis. The characterization results reflected the good preparation of the formula with an amorphous structure in a range of 200 nm, high stability with ZP + 57.3 mV. The calculated EE was 84.10 ± 1.19% and the release percent was 72.11 ± 0.77% for 24 hrs. All the rats increased in the weight with variations among the groups in the tissue organs. The finding exposed a significant decrease in the average of MDA in the rats' testes with a significant increase in GSH while a non-significant difference in the epididymis, in both. The testosterone, the seminal parameters, and the DNA integrity significantly increased in the nano-formula compared to propranolol. Likewise, normal pathological findings of the nano-formula in the testis and Epididymis compared to abnormal of propranolol. In total, the current research confirmed that EGCG had no toxic effects and able to promote fertility. The most important finding was the administration of EGCG either in normal or nano-form prior to propranolol alleviated the effects of propranolol. These findings reflected the protection evident of EGCG versus propranolol.

Treatment algorithm for the use of psychopharmacological agents in individuals prenatally exposed to alcohol and/or with diagnosis of fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD).

Psychotropic medication treatment of individuals who have experienced prenatal alcohol exposure (PAE) has lagged behind psychosocial interventions. Multiple psychotropic medications are often prescribed for those diagnosed with a range of neurodevelopmental disabilities and impairments of PAE (neurodevelopmental disorder associated with prenatal alcohol exposure and/or fetal alcohol spectrum disorder [ND-PAE/FASD]). Despite the diverse comorbid mental disorders, there are no specific guidelines for psychotropic medications for individuals with ND-PAE/FASD. When prescribed, concerned family members and caregivers of individuals with ND-PAE/FASD reported that polypharmacy, which was typical and adverse effects render the psychotropic medications ineffective. The objective of this work was to generate a treatment algorithm for the use of psychopharmacological agents specifically for individuals with ND-PAE/FASD. The development of decision tree for use to prescribe psychotropic medications incorporated findings from previous research and the collective clinical experience of a multidisciplinary and international panel of experts who work with individuals with ND-PAE/FASD, including an algorithm specialist. After multiple meetings and discussions, the experts reached consensus on how best to streamline prescribing along neurodevelopmental clusters. These were subdivided into four ligand-specific, receptor-acting medication targets (hyperarousal, emotional dysregulation, hyperactive/neurocognitive, and cognitive inflexibility). Each cluster is represented by a list of common symptoms. The experts recommended that prescribers first ensure adequate psychosocial and environmental, including sufficient dietary, exercise, and sleep support before prescribing psychotropic medications. Treatment then progresses through three steps of psychotropic medications for each cluster. To support established treatment goals, the most function impairing clusters are targeted first.

Chemisorption and sustained release of cefotaxime between a layered double hydroxide and polyvinyl alcohol nanofibers for enhanced efficacy against second degree burn wound infection.

Zn-Al layered double hydroxides (LDHs) were synthesized by a chemical method, while polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) nanofibers were fabricated by an electrospinning approach; we also synthesized Zn-Al LDH/cefotaxime (cefotax), Zn-Al LDH@PVA, and Zn-Al LDH/cefotax@PVA (LCP). Characterizations were performed by X-ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, field emission scanning electron microscopy, high-resolution transmission electron microscopy, energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, Brunauer-Emmett-Teller analysis, thermogravimetric-differential thermal analysis techniques, dynamic light scattering, X ray-florescence, and carbon, hydrogen, and nitrogen (CHN) analyses. The adsorption isotherm of cefotax and its entrapment percentage, release, and kinetics were also investigated. The results confirmed the elemental constituents of the mentioned formulas, which exhibited different degrees of crystallinity and different morphologies. Besides, these formulas were tested in vitro as antimicrobial agents and applied in vivo against second-degree wound burns induced in rats' skin. The adsorption of cefotax occurred chemically, and the experimental data were fitted with different isotherm models, where the Freundlich and Toth models gave the best fits. The entrapment percentage in LDH/cefotax was 77.41% and in LDH/cefotax@PVA, it was 67.83%. The sustained release of cefotax from LDH and LCP was attainable; the release percentages were 89.31% and 81.55% in up to 12 h, respectively. The release kinetics of cefotax from LDH fitted well with first-order kinetics, while that for LCP was parabolic. The formulas showed uneven antimicrobial effects against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria; the best effect was exhibited by Zn-Al LDH/cefotax@PVA due to its sustained release. Finally, investigating the possibility of using these formulas in the clinical setting should be considered.

Synthesis and evaluation of layered double hydroxide/doxycycline and cobalt ferrite/chitosan nanohybrid efficacy on gram positive and gram negative bacteria.

The current study tested the antibacterial activity of layered double hydroxide (LDH), LDH-Doxycycline nanohybrid, Cobalt ferrite nanoparticles (NPs) and Cobalt ferrite-Chitosan nanohybrid against Gram-negative bacteria Escherichia coli. In addition, the study investigated the Cobalt ferrite NPs and Cobalt ferrite-Chitosan nanohybrids against Gram-positive bacteria Staphylococcus aureus. The nanoparticles and nanohybrids were synthesized by a chemical method and characterized by high resolution transmission electron microscope (HRTEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and Fourier transformation Infra-red Spectroscopy (FTIR). Multi-point Brunauer-Emmet-Teller (BET) method determined the specific surface area while Barrett-Joyner-Halenda for (BJH) figured the corresponding specific pore volume and pore size and Zetasizer ranked the particle size distribution. Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and the minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) measurements besides agar well diffusion method showed the antimicrobial activity of the nanoparticles. The results revealed no antibacterial activity of the LDH and Cobalt ferrite NPs alone. Meanwhile, the Cobalt ferrite-Chitosan nanohybrid and LDH-Doxycycline showed a high activity antibacterial effect.

Near-infrared heat lamp therapeutic effect on paraoxonase 1 and myeloperoxidase as potential biomarkers of redox state changes induced by γ-irradiation in albino rats.

Infrared radiation has a potential therapeutic effect in some diseases. The aim of this study was to estimate the therapeutic role of near infrared heat lamp (NIRHL) on the variations of the activity of paraoxonase 1 (PON1) and myeloperoxidase (MPO), in relation to lipid disorders, associated with oxidative stress in rats gamma-irradiated. In addition, study the effect of the duration of NIRHL treatment. Animals were divided into six groups. The results revealed that irradiated rats treated with NIRHL 20 min/once/day showed positive modulation of PON1 and MPO linked to significant improvement of lipid disorders evidenced by lower triglycerides, low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), oxidized low density lipoprotein cholesterol (oxLDL-C) and higher density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) as well as significant amelioration of redox state, manifested by markedly increase of glutathione (GSH) content, total antioxidant capacity (TAC) associated with a noticeable decrease of pro-inflammatory cytokines. (TNF-α, IL-1 beta and IL-6), nitric oxide (NO), nitric oxide synthase (NOs), malondialdehyde (MDA), compared to irradiated rats. The results showed also that the NIRHL treatment for 20 min/twice/day had negative effects on the previous parameters and on the behavior of rats such as itching, irritability, dyspnea and death in normal as well as, irradiated rats. In conclusion, the results in this study show that NIRHL therapy for a short time can effectively prevent the lipid disorders induced by radiation through the positive modulation mechanism of PON1 and MPO enzymes and improvement of oxidative stress.

Epidemiological study of Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus infection in dromedary camels in Saudi Arabia, April-May 2015.

A cross-sectional study was conducted in five regions in Saudi Arabia to investigate the epidemiology of Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV) infection in dromedary camels (Camelus dromedarius) during April and May2015. Serum and nasal swab samples were tested for MERS-CoV antibodies andribonucleic acid (RNA) using a recombinant enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (rELISA) and real-time reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction (rRT-PCR), respectively. The overall MERS-CoV antibody seroprevalence was 80.5%, whereas the overall viral RNA prevalence was 2.4%. The associations of risk factors with each prevalence were quantified using univariate and multivariate analyses. The multivariate models identified region, age, grazing system, exposure to wild animals and dung removal as factors significantly associated with seroprevalence (p ??0.05). A higher seroprevalence was more likely to occur in camels from the Riyadh, Eastern, Northern and Makkah regions than those from the Jazan region; camels ??4 and 1-3 years of age (marginally significant) than calves < 1 year; and camels raised in zero grazing and semi-open grazing systems than those raised in an open grazing system. However, the presence of wild animals and daily dung removal were negatively associated with seroprevalence. On the other hand, region and sex were significantly associated with MERS-CoV RNA prevalence(p ??0.05). A higher viral RNA prevalence was more likely to occur in camels from the Riyadh region and Eastern region (marginally significant) than in those from the Makkah region, and in male camels than female camels. In conclusion, the risk factors identified in this study can be considered to be predictors of MERS-CoV infection in camels and should be taken into account when developing an efficient and cost-effective control strategy.

Une étude transversale a été réalisée au cours des mois d'avril et de mai 2015 dans cinq régions d'Arabie saoudite afin d'élucider l'épidémiologie de l'infection par le coronavirus responsable du syndrome respiratoire du Moyen-Orient(MERS­CoV) chez les dromadaires (Camelus dromedarius). Des échantillons de sérum et des écouvillons nasaux prélevés de dromadaires ont été analysés afin de détecter la présence d'anticorps dirigés contre le MERS-CoV ou d'ARN de ce même virus, en utilisant respectivement une épreuve immuno-enzymatique recombinante (ELISAr) et une amplification en chaîne par polymérase couplée à une transcription inverse (PCR­RT) en temps réel. La prévalence sérologique globale des anticorps dirigés contre le MERS-CoV s'élevait à 80,5 %, tandis que la prévalence globale de l'ARN viral était de 2,4 %. Les corrélations entre les facteurs de risque et les prévalences obtenues ont été quantifiées au moyen d'analyses à une seule et à plusieurs variables. Les modèles à plusieurs variables ont fait apparaître une association significative (p ??0,05) entre la prévalence sérologique et les facteurs suivants : la région, l'âge des animaux, le système pastoral pratiqué, l'exposition à la faune sauvage et l'élimination du fumier. La probabilité d'une forte prévalence sérologique était plus élevée chez les dromadaires provenant des régions de Riyad, de l'Est, du Nord et de la Mecque que chez ceux de la région de Jizan ; chez les dromadaires âgés de plus de quatre ans, ou âgés d'un à trois ans (différence marginalement significative) plutôt que chez les jeunes de moins d'un an ; et enfin chez les dromadaires nourris en stabulation (zéro pâturage) ou en pâturage semi-ouvert plutôt que chez ceux nourris dans des systèmes de pâturage ouvert. En revanche, une corrélation négative a été constatée entre la prévalence sérologique d'une part et la présence d'animaux sauvages et/ou l'élimination quotidienne du fumier, d'autre part. En ce qui concerne la détection virale, une corrélation significative (p ??0,05) a été constatée entre la région et le sexe des animaux et la prévalence de l'ARN du MERS-CoV. La probabilité d'une prévalence plus élevée de l'ARN viral était plus prononcée chez les dromadaires des régions de Riyad et de l'Est (différence marginalement significative) que chez ceux de la région de La Mecque, et chez les mâles que chez les chamelles. En conclusion, les facteurs de risque identifiés dans cette étude peuvent servir d'annonciateurs de l'infection par le MERS-CoV chez les dromadaires et devraient être pris en compte pour élaborer une stratégie efficace et rentable de lutte contre cette maladie.

Los autores describen un estudio transversal efectuado en abril y mayo de 2015 en cinco regiones de Arabia Saudí con objeto de investigar la epidemiologia de la infección de dromedarios (Camelus dromedarius) por el coronavirus del síndrome respiratorio de Oriente Medio (MERS­CoV). A tal efecto se analizaron muestras de suero y exudado nasal para detectar en ellas anticuerpos contra el MERS­CoV y ácido ribonucleico (ARN) del virus, empleando para ello, respectivamente, una técnica de ensayo inmunoenzimático recombinante (ELISAr) y una de reacción en cadena de la polimerasa acoplada a transcripción inversa en tiempo real (rRT­PCR, por sus siglas en inglés). Se calculó que la seroprevalencia global de anticuerpos contra el virus era del 80,5% y que la prevalencia global de ARN vírico era del 2,4%. Utilizando análisis multifactoriales y de una sola variable se cuantificó también la correlación de cada una de esas prevalencias con una serie de factores de riesgo. Con los modelos multifactoriales se observó que la región, la edad, el régimen de pastoreo, la exposición a animales salvajes y la retirada de estiércol eran factores que presentaban una asociación significativa con la seroprevalencia (p ??0,05): era más probable encontrar niveles elevados de seroprevalencia en dromedarios de las regiones de Riad y La Meca y las regiones oriental y septentrional del país que en los de la región de Jizán; en los de 4 o más años y entre 1 y 3 años de edad (correlación ligeramente significativa) que en las crías menores de 1 año; y en los animales estabulados o criados en sistemas de pasto semiabierto que en los criados con regímenes de pasto al aire libre. La presencia de animales salvajes y la retirada cotidiana del estiércol, por su parte, presentaban una correlación negativa con la seroprevalencia. Por otro lado, los factores asociados significativamente con la prevalencia de ARN vírico (p ??0,05) eran la región y el sexo: había mayor probabilidad de encontrar niveles elevados de prevalencia de ARN vírico en dromedarios de la región de Riad y la región oriental (correlación ligeramente significativa) que en los de la región de La Meca, y en machos más que en hembras. En conclusión, los factores de riesgo detectados con este estudio pueden ser considerados predictivos de la infección de dromedarios por el MERS­CoV y deben ser tenidos en cuenta para elaborar una estrategia de lucha que ofrezca a la vez eficacia y rentabilidad.

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