A dendritic cell-recruiting, antimicrobial blood clot hydrogel for melanoma recurrence prevention and infected wound management.

Surgical resection, the mainstay for melanoma treatment, faces challenges due to high tumor recurrence rates and complex postoperative wound healing. Chronic inflammation from residual disease and the risk of secondary infections impede healing. We introduce an innovative, injectable hydrogel system that integrates a multifaceted therapeutic approach. The hydrogel, crosslinked by calcium ions with sodium alginate, encapsulates a blood clot rich in dendritic cells (DCs) chemoattractants and melanoma cell-derived nanovesicles (NVs), functioning as a potent immunostimulant. This in situ recruitment strategy overcomes the limitations of subcutaneous tumor vaccine injections and more effectively achieves antitumor immunity. Additionally, the hydrogel incorporates Chlorella extracts, enhancing its antimicrobial properties to prevent wound infections and promote healing. One of the key findings of our research is the dual functionality of Chlorella extracts; they not only expedite the healing process of infected wounds but also increase the hydrogel's ability to stimulate an antitumor immune response. Given the patient-specific nature of the blood clot and NVs, our hydrogel system offers customizable solutions for individual postoperative requirements. This personalized approach is highlighted by our study, which demonstrates the synergistic impact of the composite hydrogel on preventing melanoma recurrence and hastening wound healing, potentially transforming postsurgical melanoma management.

Antiviral activity of Morus alba L. extract against pseudorabies virus.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Morus alba L. are widely used as ethnomedicine and functional food in China, Japan, Korea and other Asian countries. Morus alba L. have a variety of pharmacological activity such as antiviral, antioxidation, anti-cholesterol, anticancer, hypoglycemia, and neuroprotection. Morus alba L. has demonstrated antiviral efficacy against influenza viruses, SARS-CoV-2 and so on, but its potential activity against pseudorabies virus (PRV) remains uncertain. AIM OF THE STUDY: This study endeavors to delve into the anti-pseudorabies virus (PRV) potential of the ethanol extract of Morus alba L. leaves (MLE), while simultaneously elucidating its underlying mechanism of action. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The anti-PRV activities of Morus alba L. extracts at different concentrations were evaluated by qPCR and immunoblotting. The inhibitory effects of MLE on PRV replication in three distinct treatment modes (pretreatment, co-treatment, and post-treatment) were detected by qPCR and indirect immunofluorescence assays. qPCR was used to investigate the effects of MLE on PRV attachment, entrance, and cytokine expression in PRV-infected cells. The chemical components in MLE were analyzed by UPLC-MS/MS. RESULTS: MLE significantly inhibits PRV replication and protein expression in a dose-dependent manner. MLE displays inhibitory effects against PRV at three different modes of treatment. The most significant inhibitory effect of MLE was observed when used in co-treatment mode, resulting in an inhibition rate of 99.42%. MLE inhibits PRV infection in the early stage. MLE inhibits PRV infection by affecting viral attachment and viral entry. Furthermore, MLE exerts its inhibition on PRV replication by mitigating the heightened expression of cytokines (TNF-α and IFN-α) triggered by PRV. Analysis of its chemical composition highlights phenolic acids and flavonoids as the principal constituents of MLE. CONCLUSION: The results illustrate that MLE effectively impedes PRV infection by suppressing viral adsorption and entry, while also curbing the expression of antiviral cytokines. Therefore, MLE may be a potential resource for creating new medications to treat human and animal PRV infections.

Sea buckthorn extract mitigates chronic obstructive pulmonary disease by suppression of ferroptosis via scavenging ROS and blocking p53/MAPK pathways.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Sea buckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides), a traditional Tibetan medicinal herb, exhibits protective effects against cardiovascular and respiratory diseases. Although Sea buckthorn extract (SBE) has been confirmed to alleviate airway inflammation in mice, its therapeutic effect and underlying mechanism on chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) requires further clarification. AIM OF THE STUDY: To elucidate the alleviative effect and molecular mechanism of SBE on lipopolysaccharides (LPS)/porcine pancreatic elastase (PPE)-induced COPD by blocking ferroptosis. METHODS: The anti-ferroptotic effects of SBE were evaluated in human BEAS-2B bronchial epithelial cells using CCK8, RT-qPCR, western blotting, and transmission electron microscopy. Transwell was employed to detect chemotaxis of neutrophils. COPD model was induced by intranasally administration of LPS/PPE in mice and measured by alterations of histopathology, inflammation, and ferroptosis. RNA-sequencing, western blotting, antioxidant examination, flow cytometry, DARTS, CETSA, and molecular docking were then used to investigate its anti-ferroptotic mechanisms. RESULTS: In vitro, SBE not only suppressed erastin- or RSL3-induced ferroptosis by suppressing lipid peroxides (LPOs) production and glutathione (GSH) depletion, but also suppressed ferroptosis-induced chemotactic migration of neutrophils via reducing mRNA expression of chemokines. In vivo, SBE ameliorated LPS/PPE-induced COPD phenotypes, and inhibited the generation of LPOs, cytokines, and chemokines. RNA-sequencing showed that p53 pathway and mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPK) pathway were implicated in SBE-mediated anti-ferroptotic action. SBE repressed erastin- or LPS/PPE-induced overactivation of p53 and MAPK pathway, thereby decreasing expression of diamine acetyltransferase 1 (SAT1) and arachidonate 15-lipoxygenase (ALOX15), and increasing expression of glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4) and solute carrier family 7 member 11 (SLC7A11). Mechanistically, erastin-induced elevation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) was reduced by SBE through directly scavenging free radicals, thereby contributing to its inhibition of p53 and MAPK pathways. CETSA, DARTS, and molecular docking further showed that ROS-generating enzyme nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) oxidase 4 (NOX4) may be the target of SBE. Overexpression of NOX4 partially impaired the anti-ferroptotic activity of SBE. CONCLUSION: Our results demonstrated that SBE mitigated COPD by suppressing p53 and MAPK pro-ferroptosis pathways via directly scavenging ROS and blocking NOX4. These findings also supported the clinical application of Sea buckthorn in COPD therapy.

Phenolic Glycoside Monomer from Reed Rhizome Inhibits Melanin Production via PI3K-Akt and Ras-Raf-MEK-ERK Pathways.

INTRODUCTION: Melanogenesis, the process responsible for melanin production, is a critical determinant of skin pigmentation. Dysregulation of this process can lead to hyperpigmentation disorders. METHOD: In this study, we identified a novel Reed Rhizome extract, (1'S, 2'S)-syringyl glycerol 3'-O-ß-D-glucopyranoside (compound 5), and evaluated its anti-melanogenic potential in zebrafish models and in vitro assays. Compound 5 inhibited melanin synthesis by 36.66% ± 14.00% and tyrosinase in vivo by 48.26% ± 6.94%, surpassing the inhibitory effects of arbutin. Network pharmacological analysis revealed key targets, including HSP90AA1, HRAS, and PIK3R1, potentially involved in the anti-melanogenic effects of compound 5. RESULTS: Molecular docking studies supported the interactions between compound 5 and these targets. Further, gene expression analysis in zebrafish indicated that compound 5 up-regulates hsp90aa1.1, hrasa, and pik3r1, and subsequently down-regulating mitfa, tyr, and tyrp1, critical genes in melanogenesis. CONCLUSION: These findings suggest that compound 5 inhibits melanin production via PI3K-Akt and Ras-Raf-MEK-ERK signaling pathways, positioning it as a promising candidate for the treatment of hyperpigmentation.

Synthesis of Luminescent Copper Nanoparticles Using Couroupita guianensis Flower Extract: Evaluation of Antibacterial and Anticancer Activities.

The biosynthesis of nanoparticles is a crucial research area aimed at developing innovative, cost-effective, and eco-friendly synthesis techniques for various applications. Herein, we synthesized copper oxide nanoparticles (CuNPs) using Couroupita guianensis flower extract via a simple green synthesis method. These green CuNPs demonstrate promising antimicrobial activity and anticancer activity against A549 nonsmall cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cells. We comprehensively characterized the CuNPs using UV spectrum, XRD, FTIR, SEM, and EDS analyses. The antibacterial and anticancerous performance is attributed to their spherical-like morphology, which enhances effective interaction with bacterial and cancer cells. Moreover, CuNPs proved effective in inactivating Escherichia coli, achieving 2%, 52%, and 99% inactivation at 0, 30, and 60 min, respectively, and Listeria monocytogenes, achieving 1%, 48%, and 98% inactivation at 0, 30, and 60 min, respectively, under visible light. Furthermore, the CuNPs exhibited significant anticancer activity against A549 NSCLC cells, achieving cell viability reductions of 10%, 30%, 50%, 70%, 83%, and 91% at concentrations of 25, 50, 100, 150, 200, and 250 µg/mL, respectively. The green synthesized CuNPs demonstrate their potential in biomedical applications.

Design of Bionanomaterial of Chitosan Carbohydrate Polymer Composited with Broccoli Extract and Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles: Anticancer Activity in Human Osteosarcoma.

In the current research, a chitosan/broccoli extract/ZnO nanoparticle (CH/BE/ZnO) bionanocomposite was created. The physicochemical properties of CH/BE/ZnO bionanocomposite were investigated using a variety of methods, including field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), elemental analysis (CHN-O), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectrum (FTIR), Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The CH/BE/ZnO bionanocomposite's biological activity was assessed by examining its cytotoxicity capabilities against a bone cancer cell line (MG63). The total pore volume and specific surface area of CH/BE/ZnO are 0.134 cm3/g and 16.99 m2/g, respectively. The IC50 results for CH/BE/ZnO bionanocomposite in bone cancer investigations using the MTT test against the MG63 cell line was 115 µg/mL. The results indicate that the CH/BE/ZnO bionanocomposite is an effective chemotherapeutic agent against human osteosarcoma. The CH/BE/ZnO bionanocomposite showed high performance and structure, which means innovating nanomaterial agents for biological applications in the future.

In vitro anti-inflammatory, anticancer effects and phytochemical characterisation of organic extracts from Aristolochia olivieri Colleg. ex Boiss.

Natural extract plays a crucial role in our lives, major compound in the n-hexane (AR-H) and the ethyl acetate (AR-E) Aristolochia olivieri extracts was n-hexadecanoic acid, and of the methanol extract (AR-M) was pentacosane. The AR-M extract had a strong ability to induce mRNA expression of an inflammatory cytokine, IL-6, as an M1-like macrophage subset compared to the negative control (DMSO-treated cells). In contrast, AR-E treatment showed strong anti-inflammatory activity against macrophages. The AR-H extract had a moderate inflammatory effect against macrophages. The IC50 results of the anticancer assays ranged from 58.29 to 451.03 µg/mL for the three extracts. The anticancer action of the AR-E extract against U-87MG cells was higher (58.29 µg/mL) than that of AR-H and AR-M (156.38 and 196.14 µg/mL, respectively). The greater cytotoxicity effect observed with the AR-E extract against U-87MG can be linked to its high content of hexadecanoic acid (32.49%) and linolenic acid (12.90%).

Antibiofilm activity of Morganella morganii JB8F and Pseudomonas fluorescens JB3B compound to control single and multi-species of aquaculture pathogens.

BACKGROUND: Indonesia is a country that uses half or more aquatic foods as protein intake. The increased production in aquaculture industries might cause several problems, such as bacterial disease resulting in mass mortality and economic losses. Antibiotics are no longer effective because aquaculture pathogens can form biofilm. Biofilm is a microbial community that aggregates and firmly attaches to living or non-living surfaces. Biofilm formation can be caused by environmental stress, the presence of antibiotics, and limited nutrients. Therefore, it is important to explore antibiofilm to inhibit biofilm formation and/or eradicate mature biofilm. Phyllosphere bacteria can produce bioactive compounds for antimicrobial, antibiofilm, and anti-quorum sensing. Three aquaculture pathogens were used in this study, such as Aeromonas hydrophila, Streptococcus agalactiae, and Vibrio harveyi. RESULTS: Pseudomonas fluorescens JB3B and Morganella morganii JB8F extracts could disrupt single and multi-species biofilms. Both extracts could inhibit single biofilm formation from one to seven days of incubation time. We confirmed the destruction activity on multi-species biofilm using light microscope and scanning electron microscope. Using GC-MS analysis, indole was the most active fraction of the P. fluorescens JB3B extracts and octacosane from the M. morganii JB8F extract. We also conducted a toxicity test using brine shrimp lethality assay on P. fluorescens JB3B and M. morganii JB8F extracts. P. fluorescens JB3B, M. morganii JB8F, and a mixture of both extracts were confirmed non-toxic according to the LC50 value of the brine shrimp lethality test. CONCLUSIONS: P. fluorescens JB3B and M. morganii JB8F phyllosphere extracts had antibiofilm activity to inhibit single biofilm and disrupt single and multi-species biofilm of aquaculture pathogens. Both extracts could inhibit single species biofilm until seven days of incubation. Bioactive compounds that might contribute to antibiofilm properties were found in both extracts, such as indole and phenol. P. fluorescens JB3B, M. morganii JB8F extracts, and mixture of both extracts were non-toxic against Artemia salina.

Comparative Evaluation of Antimicrobial Efficacy of Silver Nanoparticles Infused with Azadirachta indica Extract and Chlorhexidine Against Red-complex Pathogens.

AIM: The present study aimed to evaluate the antimicrobial efficacy of silver nanoparticles infused with Azadirachta indica extract and chlorhexidine against red-complex periopathogens. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Neem leaf extraction was done followed by standardization to the synthesis of neem-infused silver nanoparticles and fractionation of compounds done by using thin layer chromatography to separate the mixture of neem leaf extract. Characterization of neem-infused silver nanoparticles was done by scanning electron microscopy and UV-Visible spectroscopy. The compound identified in neem-infused silver nanoparticles was gedunin which was confirmed by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. Determination of antibacterial activity done by disc diffusion, minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC), and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) methods. Group I-99% ethanolic extract, group II-neem-infused silver nanoparticles (NAgNPs), group III-chlorhexidine. RESULTS: The relative inhibitory zone value for Tannerella forsythia (180) in neem-infused silver nanoparticles (group II) was greater when compared with other periopathogens Porphyromonas gingivalis (133) and Treponema denticola (160) than 99% ethanolic extract (group I), chlorhexidine (group III). Neem-infused silver nanoparticles (group III) showed superior antimicrobial activity against T. forsythia (19.3 ± 31.1547) and T. denticola (18±0) when compared with P. gingivalis (17.6 ± 0.5774). On evaluating MIC and minimum bacterial concentrations, P. gingivalis is more resistant than other pathogens in neem-infused silver nanoparticles (group III). CONCLUSION: Neem-infused silver nanoparticles exhibited superior antibacterial activity as compared with gold-standard chlorhexidine against red-complex periodontal pathogens. For MIC and MBC all the three periopathogens were effective but P. gingivalis was more resistant. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Antibiotics are effective against many drug-resistant bacteria. As a ready-made medicine, they can be used to treat many infections. Silver nanoparticles in drug delivery systems generally increase solubility, stability, and biodistribution, thereby increasing their effectiveness. Green synthesis using plant extracts as precursors to synthesize nanoparticles has proven to be environmentally non-hazardous combined with remarkably improved efficacy against bacterial and viral diseases. So neem-infused silver nanoparticles can be utilized as a drug delivery system. Hence, it can be used as a potential antibacterial ingredient in formulations for periodontal use like mouthwashes and gels for local drug delivery. How to cite this article: Krishnappan S, Ravindran S, Balu P, et al. Comparative Evaluation of Antimicrobial Efficacy of Silver Nanoparticles Infused with Azadirachta indica extract and Chlorhexidine Against Red-Complex Pathogens. J Contemp Dent Pract 2024;25(6):547-553.

Real world effectiveness of Hawthorn special extract WS 1442 in a retrospective cohort study from Germany.

Hawthorn special extract WS 1442 has beneficial effects on the cardiovascular system. Experimental studies have shown an antiarrhythmic effect of the substance. In the present study, we investigated antiarrhythmic effects of WS 1442 compared with magnesium/potassium in a large collective of outpatients. Using the IQVIA Disease Analyzer (DA) database, we included 4550 patients with a prescription of WS 1442 and 4550 matched patients with Tromcardin prescriptions (all registered products under the trademark Tromcardin that are magnesium and potassium supplementing foods for special medical purposes) who were followed for 5 years after the index date. The incidence of various cardiac arrhythmias (atrial fibrillation and flutter (AFF), tachycardia, and other cardiac arrhythmias) was recorded. Cox regression models were used to evaluate the potential association between both drugs and arrhythmias. The cumulative incidence of atrial fibrillation and flutter was significantly lower among patients with a prescription of WS 1442 compared to patients with magnesium/potassium prescriptions (10.8% vs. 16.4%, p < 0.001). WS 1442 prescription was significantly associated with a lower incidence of atrial fibrillation and flutter compared to magnesium/potassium (HR 0.71; 95% CI 0.64-0.80; p < 0.001). The cumulative incidence of tachycardia was significantly lower in the WS 1442 group compared to the magnesium/potassium group (8.3% vs. 9.4%, p < 0.001), similarly, the cumulative incidence of other cardiac arrhythmias was significantly lower among patients with WS 1442 compared to patients with magnesium/potassium (10.2% vs. 14.8%, p < 0.001). This study showed that in a large collective of outpatients, intake of hawthorn special extract WS 1442 was associated with a significantly lower incidence of atrial fibrillation, tachycardia, and other cardiac arrhythmias compared to magnesium/potassium, indicating its potential in treating and preventing such conditions.

Exploring the protective role of green tea extract against cardiovascular alterations induced by chronic REM sleep deprivation via modulation of inflammation and oxidative stress.

BACKGROUND: Chronic Rapid eye movement (REM) sleep deprivation has been associated with various cardiovascular alterations, including disruptions in antioxidant defense mechanisms, lipid metabolism, and inflammatory responses. This study investigates the therapeutic potential of green tea extract (GTE) in mitigating these adverse effects. METHODS: A total of 24 male Wistar albino rats were used in this study and divided into the control group (n = 8), Chronic-REM Sleep Deprivation (CRSD) Group (n = 8) and Chronic-REM SD + Green Tea 200 (CRSD + GTE200) Group (n = 8). After 21 days, a comprehensive analysis of paraoxonase (PON1), arylesterase (ARE), malondialdehyde (MDA), glutathione (GSH), nitric oxide (NOx), proinflammatory cytokines, and lipid profiles in aortic tissue, heart tissue, and serum was conducted in a sleep-deprived rat model. RESULTS: Chronic REM sleep deprivation led to a significant reduction in PON1 and ARE levels in aortic (p = 0.046, p = 0.035 respectively) and heart tissues (p = 0.020, p = 0.019 respectively), indicative of compromised antioxidant defenses. MDA levels increased, and NOx levels decreased, suggesting oxidative stress and impaired vascular function. Lipid profile alterations, including increased triglycerides and total cholesterol, were observed in serum. Elevated levels of inflammatory cytokines (IL-6 and TNF-alpha) further indicated an inflammatory response (p = 0.007, p = 0.018 respectively). GTE administration demonstrated a protective role, restoring antioxidant enzyme levels, suppressing lipid peroxidation, and improving NOx levels. CONCLUSION: These findings suggest the therapeutic potential of GTE in alleviating the cardiovascular impairments of chronic REM sleep deprivation, emphasizing its candidacy for further clinical exploration as a natural intervention in sleep-related disorders and associated cardiovascular risks.

Optimization and pharmacological evaluation of phytochemical-rich Cuscuta reflexa seed extract for its efficacy against chlorpyrifos-induced hepatotoxicity in murine models.

The popular organophosphorus (OP) compound chlorpyrifos (CP) has recently gained significant attention due to its health risks, particularly among farmers exposed to OP pesticides. This study aimed to evaluate the acute toxicity of Cuscuta reflexa seed extract (CRSE) and its efficacy of mitigating the adverse effects of CP in albino male mice. For acute toxicity analysis, the first group was served as the control group, while the second group was received CRSE (200 mg/kg/bw) on the first day of the 14-day experiment. For hepatotoxicity analysis, the first group was the control group, the second group (vehicle control) received corn oil (CO) (2 mL/kg/bw), the third group was given CP (20 mg/kg/bw) dissolved in corn oil and the fourth group was given CP (20 mg/kg/bw) along-with CRSE (200 mg/kg/bw) orally via gavage once daily for 21 days. The acute toxicity examination revealed no statistically significant differences between the CRSE-treated and control groups in serum biochemical indicators and histopathological analyses of various organs, suggesting that CRSE as safe at a dosage of 200 mg/kg/bw, with an oral LD50 in mice higher than 200 mg/kg. The hepatotoxicity study demonstrated that the CP administration resulted in liver damage and oxidative stress, while CRSE acted as an antioxidant and attenuated the signs of oxidative stress in liver damage. Hence, a promising therapeutic approach for lowering CP hepatotoxicity is co-treatment with CRSE.

Electrochemical, surface, and theoretical investigations of palm kernel shell extract as an effective inhibitor for carbon-steel corrosion in 1 M HCl solution.

Herein, we employed palm kernel shell extract (PKSE) as an eco-friendly inhibitor for carbon steel in acidic-induced corrosion. The corrosion inhibition of PKSE on carbon steel in 1 M HCI solution was investigated by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, weight loss, and potentiodynamic polarization measurements. The surface was characterized by scanning electron microscopy equipped with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. Moreover, the elastic modulus and hardness tests were conducted. Weight loss measurements revealed that the optimum concentration of inhibitors is 500 ppm with 95.3% inhibition efficiency in 1 M HCl solution. Electrochemical results showed that the inhibitor could exhibit excellent corrosion inhibition performance and displayed mixed-type inhibition. The electrochemical impedance spectroscopy analysis shows that the inhibition performance increases by increasing the concentration of PKSE. The surface studies ensure the PKSE effectiveness in carbon steel surface damage reduction. Also, the adsorption of PKSE molecules on the carbon steel surface occurs according to the Langmuir isotherm model. The primary goal of this investigation was the utilization of palm kernel shell extract as corrosion inhibitor for 1018 low carbon steel in 1 M HCl solution, which highlights its novelty. The present results will be helpful to uncover the versatile importance of palm kernel shell compounds in the corrosion inhibition process.

Immunomodulatory effects and multi-omics analysis of Codonopsis Pilosula Extract in septic rats.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Codonopsis Pilosula (CP), as a well-known traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) with medicinal and edible herb, is one of the most representative tonic Chinese herbal medicine. It has been widely used for regulating immune function with hardly any adverse effects in clinical practice. AIM OF THE STUDY: This study aimed to elucidate the immunomodulatory effect and to explore probable mechanism of Codonopsis Pilosula Extract (CPE) in septic rats. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The model of septic rat was established by cecal ligation and perforation (CLP). The thymus index, spleen index and cerebral index were calculated. Histological changes were observed by Hematoxylin-eosin (HE). The positive expression of CD4+ T cells was determined in the thymus and spleen by immunohistochemical (IHC). The expression level of 24 h CD4 was corroborated by real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-QPCR). Infectious factors, immune factors and inflammatory factors were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Blood cells were detected by automatic biochemical analyzer. The metabolite changes and gene expression levels, the potential targets and pathways of CPE in regulating immune function of thymus were analyzed by integrative analysis of transcriptomic and metabolomic methods. RESULTS: High dose of CPE increased the thymus index and spleen index of septic rats at different stages, and the brain index at different stages could be increased at medium dose and high dose. Medium and high doses of CPE reduced the pathological changes of thymus, spleen and brain tissue. CPE promoted the expression levels of CD4 in the thymus and spleen. CPE improved the levels of red blood cells (RBC), lymphocytes (LYM) and hemoglobin (HGB), and decreased the levels of neutrophils (NEUT), NLR (NEUT/LYM) and PLR (PLT/LYM). CPE dynamically regulated the levels of white blood cells (WBC) and PLT (platelet). CPE dynamically regulated the expression levels of infectious factors, immune factors, and inflammatory factors related to disease severity. CONCLUSION: CPE has the ability to dynamically modulate the expression levels of infectious factors, immune factors, and inflammatory factors related to disease severity, and alleviate the damages of immune organs. The research has provided a global view of the integration of metabolomics and transcriptomics to elucidate the immunomodulatory effects and mechanisms of CPE. CPE could affect a series of biological processes in glycerophospholipid metabolism by interfering with the B cell receptor (BCR) signaling pathway in the thymus, to maintain immune homeostasis of septic rats on the whole, especially humoral immunity.

A Preliminary Evaluation of the Antibacterial Activity of Lemon Fruit Juice, Mondia whitei Ethanolic Extract, and Their Combination Against Streptococcus mutans.

Background: Dental caries has gained momentum as one of the main public healthcare concerns worldwide. Although the occurrence of dental caries in Uganda is on the rise, little attention has been paid to promoting oral healthcare in the country. Thus, this study aimed to evaluate the citrus lemon extracts, and Mondia whitei root bark ethanolic extract as candidate alternative therapeutic agents for streptococcus mutans, the causative agent of dental caries. Methods: In this study, the citrus lemon juice, pulp citrus lemon juice, and Mondia whitei ethanolic extract were screened for phytochemicals. Furthermore, the anti-Streptococcus mutans activity of the citrus lemon juice, citrus lemon pulp juice, and Mondia whitei ethanolic extract was determined by the agar well diffusion method while the minimum inhibitory concentration and minimum bactericidal concentration were determined by serial broth dilution. Results: Phytochemical screening revealed the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, terpenoids, and tannins in the Mondia whitei ethanolic extract and citrus lemon juices, while glycosides were only detected in lemon extracts. The zones of inhibition of Mondia whitei ethanolic extract, citrus lemon juice, citrus lemon pulp juice, and the cocktail were 13.67 ± 0.33 mm, 18.67 ± 0.33 mm, 18.33 ± 0.67 mm, and 18.00 ± 0.58 mm, respectively. The citrus lemon juice and citrus lemon pulp juice exhibited significantly lower MIC of 0.195 mg/mL, and 0.391mg/mL, respectively. The efficacy of the extract/juices increased with an increase in the concentration. Conclusion: The study findings revealed that Mondia whitei ethanolic extract and lemon extracts have potent antibacterial activity against streptococcus mutans, the main causative agent of dental caries; thus, can be further explored to formulate a herbal concoction for the prevention and treatment of oral cavity infections in resources-limited low-income communities.

Spatially resolved metabolomics visualizes heterogeneous distribution of metabolites in lung tissue and the anti-pulmonary fibrosis effect of Prismatomeris connate extract.

Pulmonary fibrosis (PF) is a chronic progressive end-stage lung disease. However, the mechanisms underlying the progression of this disease remain elusive. Presently, clinically employed drugs are scarce for the treatment of PF. Hence, there is an urgent need for developing novel drugs to address such diseases. Our study found for the first time that a natural source of Prismatomeris connata Y. Z. Ruan (Huang Gen, HG) ethyl acetate extract (HG-2) had a significant anti-PF effect by inhibiting the expression of the transforming growth factor beta 1/suppressor of mothers against decapentaplegic (TGF-ß1/Smad) pathway. Network pharmacological analysis suggested that HG-2 had effects on tyrosine kinase phosphorylation, cellular response to reactive oxygen species, and extracellular matrix (ECM) disassembly. Moreover, mass spectrometry imaging (MSI) was used to visualize the heterogeneous distribution of endogenous metabolites in lung tissue and reveal the anti-PF metabolic mechanism of HG-2, which was related to arginine biosynthesis and alanine, asparate and glutamate metabolism, the downregulation of arachidonic acid metabolism, and the upregulation of glycerophospholipid metabolism. In conclusion, we elaborated on the relationship between metabolite distribution and the progression of PF, constructed the regulatory metabolic network of HG-2, and discovered the multi-target therapeutic effect of HG-2, which might be conducive to the development of new drugs for PF.

Electrochemical, gravimetric and surface studies of Phalaris canariensis oil extract as corrosion inhibitor for 316 L type stainless steel in H2O-LiCl mixtures.

The corrosion inhibition action of Phalaris canariensis extract on 316 L stainless steel in the H2O-35 (wt%) LiCl mixture at different temperatures has been evaluated with the aid of weight loss, potentiodynamic polarization curves, linear polarization resistance and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy tests. These studies were complemented by Fourier Transformed Infrared spectroscopy, FTIR, gas/mass chromatography analytical techniques and detailed scanning electronic microscopy studies. Results have indicated that Phalaris canariensis extract is an efficient inhibitor, with an efficiency that increases with its concentration, but it decreases as the temperature increases. Phalaris canariensis extract is physically adsorbed onto stainless steel according to a Temkin type of adsorption isotherm. Phalaris canariensis extract affected both anodic and cathodic electrochemical reactions with a stronger effect on the anodic ones, acting, thus, as a mixed type of inhibitor. Main compounds contained in the Phalaris canariensis extract were palmitic and oleic acids, responsible for its inhibitory properties.

Synbiotic effects of Lactobacillus plantarum CMT1 and Morinda citrifolia on the growth performance and disease resistance of whiteleg shrimp.

This study assesses the effects of a prebiotic derived from Morinda citrifolia (noni fruit) extract and a probiotic of Lactobacillus plantarum CMT1 alone and in combination on the survival, growth performance, digestive enzymes, and disease resistance of whiteleg shrimp. A total of 1200 juvenile shrimp were randomly allocated to four treatments: control (not supplemented with noni fruit extract or L. plantarum CMT1), Treatment 1 (TRT1) (supplemented with 1 % noni fruit extract), Treatment 2 (TRT2) (supplemented with 108 CFU/kg L. plantarum CMT1), and Treatment 3 (TRT3) (supplemented with 1 % noni fruit extract and 108 CFU/kg L. plantarum CMT1). After 56 days of feeding, the growth indices of the TRT3 group were statistically larger than the other treatments (P < 0.05). Shrimp in the three treatment groups demonstrated significantly enhanced survival compared to those in the control group (P < 0.05), but no significant differences were observed among these three groups (P > 0.05). Shrimp fed the TRT3 diet had the lowest feed conversion rate, which was statistically significant compared to the other groups. Shrimp in the TRT3 group also had significantly higher amylase and protease levels than the control group. In addition, the use of fruit extract or L.plantarum CMT1 alone and in combination significantly increased shrimp survival after exposure to Vibrio parahaemolyticus, with the TRT3 group recording the highest value. The results indicate that a synbiotic of M. citrifolia extract and L.plantarum CMT1 could be used in shrimp aquaculture to promote animal development and health.

Inhibition of Benzo[a]pyrene-induced DNA Adduct in Buccal Cells of Smokers by Black Raspberry Lozenges.

Using LC-MS/MS analysis we previously showed for the first time (Carcinogenesis 43:746-753, 2022) that levels of DNA damage-induced by benzo[a]pyrene (B[a]P), an oral carcinogen and tobacco smoke (TS) constituent, were significantly higher in buccal cells of smokers than those in non-smokers; these results suggest the potential contribution of B[a]P in the development of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) in humans. Treating cancers, including OSCC at late stages even with improved targeted therapies, continues to be a major challenge. Thus interception/prevention remains a preferable approach for OSCC management and control. In previous preclinical studies we and others demonstrated the protective effects of black raspberry (BRB) against carcinogen-induced DNA damage and OSCC. Thus, to translate preclinical findings we tested the hypothesis, in a Phase 0 clinical study, that BRB administration reduces DNA damage induced by B[a]P in buccal cells of smokers. After enrolling 27 smokers, baseline buccal cells were collected before the administration of BRB lozenges (5/day for 8 weeks, 1 gm BRB powder/lozenge) at baseline, at the middle and the end of BRB administration. The last samples were collected at four weeks after BRB cessation (washout period). B[a]P-induced DNA damage (BPDE-N2-dG) was evaluated by LC-MS/MS. BRB administration resulted in a significant reduction in DNA damage: 26.3% at the midpoint (p = 0.01506) compared to baseline, 36.1% at the end of BRB administration (p = 0.00355), and 16.6% after BRB cessation (p = 0.007586). Our results suggest the potential benefits of BRB as a chemopreventive agent against the development of TS-initiated OSCC.

Ethanolic Extract from Echinacea purpurea (L.) Moench Inhibits Influenza A/B and Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infection in vitro: Preventive Agent for Viral Respiratory Infections.

Among the most frequent causes of respiratory infections in humans are influenza A virus H1N1 (H1N1), influenza B virus (IVB), and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). Echinacea is a perennial wildflower belonging to the Asteraceae family. Echinacea purpurea (L.) Moench is a species belonging to the Echinacea genus. Its characteristic compound, chicoric acid (CA), is known for its physiological activities, including antiviral effects and immune enhancement. Activities of E. purpurea 60% ethanol extract (EPE) and CA in inhibiting infections caused by H1N1, IVB, and RSV subtype A (RSV-A) were evaluated through plaque inhibition tests, quantification of viral gene expression, and analysis of transmission electron microscopy (TEM) images. Additionally, inhibitory activities of EPE and CA for hemagglutination and neuraminidase (NA) of H1N1 and IVB were determined. In the plaque reduction assays, both EPE and CA reduced infectivity against H1N1, IVB, and RSV-A. Furthermore, quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction analysis revealed that EPE and CA reduced gene expression levels for H1N1, IVB, and RSV-A, whereas TEM image analysis confirmed their inhibitory effects on host cell infection by these viruses. Hemagglutination assays exhibited the ability of EPE and CA to hinder H1N1 and IVB attachment to host cell receptors. Furthermore, EPE and CA displayed inhibition activity against the NA of H1N1 and IVB. These findings suggest that EPE and CA can suppress the infection and propagation of H1N1, IVB, and RSV-A, demonstrating their potential as preventive and therapeutic agents for viral respiratory infections or as ingredients for health functional foods.