Calculation of αˉQ.E.D.\bar{\alpha}_{\rm Q.E.D.} on the Z

We perform a new, detailed calculation of the hadronic contributions to the running electromagnetic coupling, $\bar{\alpha}$, defined on the Z particle (91 GeV). We find for the hadronic contribution, including radiative corrections, 10^5\times \deltav_{\rm had.}\alpha(M_Z^2)= 2740\pm12, or, excluding the top quark contribution, 10^5\times \deltav_{\rm had.}\alpha^{(5)}(M_Z^2)= 2747\pm12. Adding the pure QED corrections we get a value for the running electromagnetic coupling of $$\bar{\alpha}_{\rm Q.E.D.}(M_Z^2)= {{1}\over{128.965\pm0.017}}.$$Comment: Version to appear in Phys. Rev. D. Plain TeX fil

Electrodes of poly(n-methyl pyrrole)/Au and poly(maminobenzene sulfonic acid)-functionalized multiwalled carbon nanotubes for supercapacitor applications

An assembly of poly(N-methyl pyrrole) (PMP) doped with poly(3-styrene sulfonate) with embedded Au nanoparticles (PMP/Au) was grown by electropolymerization of the monomer (MP) followed by adsorption of a Au colloid. Multiwalled carbon nanotubes were functionalized with poly(m-aminobenzene sulfonic acid) (MWCNT/PABS) and deposited electrophor-etically over conducting substrates. X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Raman studies confirmed the successful functionalization of the MWCNTs by PABS. A new asymmetric supercapacitor design incorporating PMP/Au and MWCNT/PABS as electrodes was implemented for the first time, and the cell delivered a reversible specific capacitance of 967 Fg -1 and a maximum energy density of 174WhKg -1, which was superior to a PMP-MWCNT/PABS cell (167 Fg -1) and higher than many reported capacitances of poly(pyrrole)-based supercapacitors. The PMP/Au electrode outperformed pristine PMP, graphite, and MWCNT/PABS electrodes in a study of different symmetric and asymmetric cells employing these electrodes. Scanning spreading resistance microscopy (SSRM) and conducting atomic force microscopy (C-AFM) showed a lower spreading resistance and a larger nanoscale electronic conductivity for the PMP/Au electrode than for the pristine PMP electrode; these attributes allow unhindered charge transport both in the radial direction and across the cross-section of the PMP/Au electrode. The facile electron propagation in the PMP/Au electrode, enabled by the presence of localized conducting domains of Au nanoparticles implanted in the PMP electrode, effectively translates into an enhanced specific capacitance of PMP/Au-based cells relative to PMP. The results demonstrate that asymmetrically designed cells offer an exciting way to boost the overall performance of supercapacitor

A Window for Enhanced Oral Delivery of Therapeutics via Lipid Nanoparticles

Hilda Amekyeh,1 Rayan Sabra,2 Nashiru Billa3 1Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, University of Health and Allied Sciences, Ho, Ghana; 2Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA; 3College of Pharmacy, Qatar University, Doha, QatarCorrespondence: Nashiru Billa, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, QU Health, Qatar University, P.O Box 2713, Doha, Qatar, Tel +974 4403-5642, Email [email protected]: Oral administration of dosage forms is convenient and beneficial in several respects. Lipid nanoparticulate dosage forms have emerged as a useful carrier system in deploying low solubility drugs systemically, particularly class II, III, and IV drugs of the Biopharmaceutics Classification System. Like other nanoparticulate delivery systems, their low size-to-volume ratio facilitates uptake by phagocytosis. Lipid nanoparticles also provide scope for high drug loading and extended-release capability, ensuring diminished systemic side effects and improved pharmacokinetics. However, rapid gastrointestinal (GI) clearance of particulate delivery systems impedes efficient uptake across the mucosa. Mucoadhesion of dosage forms to the GI mucosa results in longer transit times due to interactions between the former and mucus. Delayed transit times facilitate transfer of the dosage form across the mucosa. In this regard, a balance between mucoadhesion and mucopenetration guarantees optimal systemic transfer. Furthermore, the interplay between GI anatomy and physiology is key to ensuring efficient systemic uptake. This review captures salient anatomical and physiological features of the GI tract and how these can be exploited for maximal systemic delivery of lipid nanoparticles. Materials used to impart mucoadhesion and examples of successful mucoadhesive lipid nanoformulations are highlighted in this review. Keywords: gastrointestinal, lipid nanoparticle, mucin, mucoadhesion, mucopenetratio

Cetuximab-conjugated chitosan-pectinate (modified) composite nanoparticles for targeting colon cancer

In the present study, we successfully developed a cetuximab-conjugated modified citrus pectin-chitosan nanoparticles for targeted delivery of curcumin (Cet-MCPCNPs) for the treatment of colorectal cancer. In vitro analyses revealed that nanoparticles were spherical with size of 249.33 ± 5.15 nm, a decent encapsulation efficiency (68.43 ± 2.4%) and a ‘smart’ drug release profile. 61.37 ± 0.70% of cetuximab was adsorbed to the surface of the nanoparticles. Cellular uptake studies displayed enhanced internalization of Cet-MCPCNPs in Caco-2 (EGFR +ve) cells, which ultimately resulted in a significant reduction in cancer cell propagation. The cell cycle analysis indicated that Cet- MCPCNPs induced cell death in enhanced percentage of Caco-2 cells by undergoing cell cycle arrest in the G2/M phase. These data suggest that Cet-MCPCNPs represent a new and promising targeting approach for the treatment of colorectal cancer.Scopu

Is Curcumin at the Threshold of Therapeutic Effectiveness on Patients with Colon Cancer?- A Systematic Review

Curcumin, obtained from curcuma longa, has been the subject of decades of scientific investigation on its therapeutic usefulness. It is reported to possess several therapeutic properties, of which anti-colon cancer is of interest in this review. Clinically however, curcumin has yet to firm up its place among established anti-colon cancer therapeutic contenders. We aimed to systematically review prevailing clinical evidence on the role of curcumin in colon cancer treatment. The review drawing from literature on clinical studies indicates fairly long term tolerability. No regression of tumor was reported when curcumin was the sole intervention. Increase in p53 level expression was reported in a placebo controlled study but no reduction in PGE2 or 5HETE. Pharmacokinetic data on healthy humans indicate that formulated curcumin delivery systems present significantly higher systemic bioavailability. It appears therefore that the clinical use of curcumin can potentially be realized only through appropriate formulation interventions.We acknowledge Qatar University grant number QUST-2-CPH-2020-6 in supporting the research.Scopu

Physicomechanical properties of sintered scaffolds formed from porous and protein-loaded poly (DL-lactic-co-glycolic acid) microspheres for potential use in bone tissue engineering

The Publisher's final version can be found by following the DOI link.An injectable poly(DL-lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) system comprising both porous and protein-loaded microspheres capable of forming porous scaffolds at body temperature was developed for tissue regeneration purposes. Porous and non-porous (lysozyme loaded) PLGA microspheres were formulated to represent ‘low molecular weight’ 22–34 kDa, ‘intermediate molecular weight’ (IMW) 53 kDa and ‘high molecular weight’ 84–109 kDa PLGA microspheres. The respective average size of the microspheres was directly related to the polymer molecular weight. An initial burst release of lysozyme was observed from both microspheres and scaffolds on day 1. In the case of the lysozyme-loaded microspheres, this burst release was inversely related to the polymer molecular weight. Similarly, scaffolds loaded with 1 mg lysozyme/g of scaffold exhibited an inverse release relationship with polymer molecular weight. The burst release was highest amongst IMW scaffolds loaded with 2 and 3 mg/g. Sustained lysozyme release was observed after day 1 over 50 days (microspheres) and 30 days (scaffolds). The compressive strengths of the scaffolds were found to be inversely proportional to PLGA molecular weight at each lysozyme loading. Surface analysis indicated that some of the loaded lysozyme was distributed on the surfaces of the microspheres and thus responsible for the burst release observed. Overall the data demonstrates the potential of the scaffolds for use in tissue regeneration

Metformin administration was associated with a modification of LH, prolactin and insulin secretion dynamics in women with polycystic ovarian syndrome

Aim. To elucidate the dynamics of FSH, LH, prolactin PRL, TSH and insulin secretion in women with polycystic ovarian syndrome PCOS treated with metformin MET. Patients and methods. In a prospective, controlled and randomised trial, 32 women with PCOS and 32 with normal cycle were recruited to receive MET 850 mg b.i.d. or placebo n: 16 for each subgroup for an average of 40 days. Pituitary function and insulin secretion were assessed before and after intervention by GnRH-TRH tests and oral glucose tolerance test induced insulin response. Results. Basal and area under the response curve AURC LH values were higher in PCOS than in normal controls before MET and declined following treatment in the former group P < 0.05. Ovulatory PCOS responders had lower basal LH, AURCLH and AURCPRL values during MET than anovulatory cases P < 0.05 for all and AURCins was lower in ovulatory than anovulatory PCOS before and on MET P < 0.02P < 0.05, with a rise of QUICKY index in the former group during MET treatment P < 0.05. FSH and TSH were similar. Conclusions. MET administration lowered LH activity in all PCOS women and in ovulatory responders and also compromised PRL stimulated secretion in the latter cases. These findings were indicative of an effect of MET on pituitary activity. © 2009 Informa UK Ltd All rights reserved