Microwave Assisted Rapid Synthesis, Spectroscopic Characterization, and Antimicrobial Significance of New Derivative of 1,4 Dihydropyridines

An efficient one-pot three-component synthesis of 1,4-dihydropyridine derivatives were synthesized by a Hantzsch reaction of dehydroacetic acid with benzaldehyde or furfural by using microwave irradiation technique in basic alumina. The prepared ligands used to yield various complexes with Co(II), Ni(II), Mn(II), Cu(II), Zn(II) and Cd(II). The isolated solid compounds were elucidated by elemental analysis (C, H, N, M, Cl), physical measurements (magnetic susceptibility and molar conductance) and spectroscopy (1H NMR, 13C NMR, IR, UV-visible, MS). Also, the synthesized compounds were tested against Gram-positive bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus, Enterococcus faecalis) and Gram-negative bacteria (Escherichia coli, Proteus) by disc diffusion method. Keywords: 1,4-dihydropyridine complexes, Microwave, Spectroscopic, Antibacterial activity

Assessment of Hair Aluminum, Lead, and Mercury in a Sample of Autistic Egyptian Children: Environmental Risk Factors of Heavy Metals in Autism

Background and Aims. The etiological factors involved in the etiology of autism remain elusive and controversial, but both genetic and environmental factors have been implicated. The aim of this study was to assess the levels and possible environmental risk factors and sources of exposure to mercury, lead, and aluminum in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) as compared to their matched controls. Methods. One hundred ASD children were studied in comparison to 100 controls. All participants were subjected to clinical evaluation and measurement of mercury, lead, and aluminum through hair analysis which reflects past exposure. Results. The mean Levels of mercury, lead, and aluminum in hair of the autistic patients were significantly higher than controls. Mercury, lead, and aluminum levels were positively correlated with maternal fish consumptions, living nearby gasoline stations, and the usage of aluminum pans, respectively. Conclusion. Levels of mercury, lead, and aluminum in the hair of autistic children are higher than controls. Environmental exposure to these toxic heavy metals, at key times in development, may play a causal role in autism