Green Synthesis of Silver Nanoparticles using Aqueous Cranberry Fruit Extract and its Antibacterial Activity

Objective: Cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon) is popularly used in traditional folk medicine for treatment of microbial infections. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the antibacterial activity of aqueous cranberry fruit extract (ACE) against pathogenic cultures and its application in green synthesis of silver nanoparticles. Methods: ACE was screened for its antibacterial activity by agar well diffusion assay. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) was determined by broth macrodilution technique, and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) was quantified. ACE was used in the green synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs), which were characterized by an Ultraviolet–visible (UV-VIS) spectroscopy and Field emission gun-scanning electron microscopy (FEG-SEM) techniques. Agar well diffusion assay was used to evaluate the antibacterial activity of the AgNPs formed. Results: The zone of inhibition (ZOI) for ACE was found to be in the range of 19 - 30.3 mm, for the concentration of 100% (v/v). The MIC values were in the range of 12.5% - 50% (v/v) and the values indicated that a concentration of 50% (v/v) ACE could inhibit 87.5% (7/8) test cultures. The formation of AgNPs was confirmed by UV-VIS spectroscopy and the surface-plasmon resonance peak was observed at 430 nm. The FEG-SEM analysis revealed that the most of AgNPs were spherical in shape and had 15-25 nm size range. All the test cultures were inhibited by the AgNPs and the average ZOI measured 25.7±5.6 mm. Conclusion: Cranberry fruit extract has a potent antibacterial activity against pathogens and it can be applied in green synthesis of silver nanoparticles. Keywords: Cranberry, MIC, MBC, silver nanoparticles, FEG-SEM

ANTIBACTERIAL ACTIVITY OF HONEY AGAINST ESBL PRODUCING KLEBSIELLA PNEUMONIAE FROM BURN WOUND INFECTIONS

Objective: The present study compares the effect of Manuka and Jambhul honey on ten clinical isolates of Klebsiella pneumoniae producing Extended Spectrum Beta Lactamases (ESBLs) from burn wound infections. Methods: The isolated organisms were identified and screened for ESBL production, which was further confirmed by Confirmatory Phenotypic Disc diffusion test and E-test. The antibacterial activity of Manuka and Jambhul honey was analysed using Agar cup method for varying concentrations of 25%, 50%, 75% and 100%. The Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of Manuka and Jambhul honey against the isolates was determined using Agar dilution method. Results: MIC was found to be in the range of 30%-40% (v/v) for both honey. The average MIC of Manuka for all the 10 isolates was estimated to be 34% whereas that of Jambhul, was 36.5% and this difference was found to be statistically insignificant (P>0.05 t test). Total phenolic content (TPC) in Manuka and Jambhul honey was estimated using Folin's Ciocalteau method and was found to be 1.22 mg TA/gm in Manuka honey and 1.18 mg TA/gm in Jambhul honey. Conclusion: Thus, the study showed that honey may be an effective antimicrobial agent against ESBL producing Klebsiella pneumoniae isolated from burn wound infections. It also proved that antimicrobial activity of Indian Jambhul honey is comparable to New Zealand's Manuka honey

IN VITRO ANTIBACTERIAL ACTIVITY OF NEEM LEAVES ON EXTENDED-SPECTRUM BETA-LACTAMASE AND AMBLER CLASS C COPRODUCERS FROM SKIN AND SOFT-TISSUE INFECTIONS.

 Objective: Clinical isolates coproducing extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL) and Ambler Class C (AmpC) beta-lactamase are a therapeutic challenge. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the antibacterial activity of Azadirachta indica methanolic leaf extract against lactose fermenting coproducers of ESBL and AmpC isolated from skin and soft-tissue infections (SSTIs).Methods: A total of 88 non-duplicate lactose fermenting strains isolated from SSTIs specimens were tested for their antibiotic susceptibility pattern by Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion method. Ceftazidime and cefoxitin-resistant strains were screened for coproduction of ESBL and AmpC beta-lactamase by phenotypic confirmatory disc diffusion test and E-test. Antibacterial activity of methanolic neem leaf (NLM) extract was examined by the disc diffusion method and the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of NLM was determined by the agar dilution technique.Results: Thirty-seven lactose fermenting strains were confirmed to be coproducers of ESBL and AmpC, out of which 27 were Escherichia coli and 10 were Klebsiella spp. The nimbin content in the neem leaf extract was found to be 0.007% (w/w) by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analysis. The NLM extract showed inhibitory activity against all the 37 lactose fermenting isolates from SSTIs, coproducing ESBL and AmpC. The MIC of NLM extract was determined to be in the range of 4–8% (40–80 mg/ml) against the selected isolates.Conclusion: It can be stated that NLM extract might have therapeutic significance against coproducers of ESBL and AmpC beta-lactamase isolated from SSTIs

A comparison of 6-minute walk test distance between asthmatic children and normal healthy children

Background: To calculate and compare the six - minute walk test distance between asthmatic children and normal healthy children.Methods: A comparative analysis study was performed to assess the exercise capacity between asthmatic and normal healthy children in the age group of 7 to 12 years. 100 subjects with random sampling were recruited over a period of 1 year according to the inclusion and exclusion criteria, each assigned into 2 groups (n=50). All the Subjects performed the 6MWT successfully and were analysed on parameters like HR, RR, RPE and 6MWTD pre and post-test.Results: Intergroup analysis was done using unpaired t test and level of significance was taken as p<0.05. The results were statistically significant for 6MWTD, HR and RR between asthmatic and normal healthy children, except RPE as no changes were seen in normal healthy children as compared to asthmatic children.Conclusions: Asthmatic children have lower 6MWTD as compared to normal healthy children. This indicates Low exercise capacity in asthmatic children. Additionally, increased HR, RR and RPE were seen in asthmatic children pre as well as post-test.

Ruptured subcapsular hepatic hematoma complicating severe preeclampsia with haemolysis, elevated liver enzymes, low platelet count syndrome: a case report

Subcapsular liver hematoma is rare complication of severe preeclampsia and HELLP syndrome, thus making it essential for these patients to be followed up in critical and intensive care units for advanced medical support with fluid and electrolyte management and replacement of blood products while treating underlying disorders. Treatment options have to be individualised and vary from conservative management to surgical treatment including hepatic resection, hepatic artery ligation, and liver transplantation. In this paper we report a case of ruptured hepatic hematoma in a 35 year old female, few hours within delivery, a complication of severe preeclampsia and HELLP syndrom

ANTIBACTERIAL ACTIVITY OF AQUEOUS GARLIC EXTRACT ON BETA-LACTAMASE PRODUCING ACINETOBACTER ISOLATES FROM SKIN AND SOFT TISSUE INFECTIONS

Objective: The present study evaluates the antibacterial effect of aqueous garlic extract (AGE) on beta-lactamase producing Acinetobacter strains isolated from skin and soft tissue infections (SSTIs).Methods: A total of 41 non-duplicate strains of Acinetobacter isolated from SSTIs specimens were tested for their antibiotic susceptibility pattern by Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion method. Ceftazidime-resistant Acinetobacter strains were screened for beta-lactamase production by Phenotypic confirmatory disc diffusion test (PCDDT) and E-test. Antibacterial activity of AGE was examined by the disc diffusion method and the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of AGE and Cefotaxime was determined by the agar dilution technique. The combined activity of AGE and Cefotaxime was evaluated by calculating the fractional inhibitory concentration (FIC) index by the checkerboard method.Results: 21 Acinetobacter strains were confirmed to be beta-lactamase producers, out of which 6 were Metallo-beta-lactamase (MBL) producers, 3 were Ambler Class C (AmpC) and 12 were multiple beta-lactamase producers. AGE exhibited significant antibacterial activity as the observed zones of inhibition ranged from 18 - 31 mm against the test strains. The MIC of AGE was in the range of 0.5% - 2% (2.5 mg/ml – 10 mg/ml) with a mean of 0.86% (4.28 mg/ml). 11 test strains showed synergism, 5 strains exhibited additive and indifferent effect, each. By HPLC analysis the concentration of allicin was found to be 0.20, expressed as percentage w/w.Conclusion: It can be stated that aqueous garlic extract might have therapeutic value against beta-lactamase producing Acinetobacter isolates from SSTIs

Study of Antibacterial activity of Phyllanthus emblica and its role in Green Synthesis of Silver Nanoparticles

Objective: Phyllanthus emblica L. or amla is known for its therapeutic properties. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the antibacterial activity of aqueous Phyllanthus emblica fruit extract (APE) against eight pathogenic cultures and its application in green synthesis of silver nanoparticles. Methods: APE was screened for the presence of phytochemicals and its antibacterial activity was evaluated by agar well diffusion assay. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) was quantified by broth macrodilution technique, and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) was determined. Further, APE was used in the biological synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs), which were characterized by an Ultraviolet–visible (UV-VIS) spectroscopy&nbsp;and Field emission gun-scanning electron microscopy (FEG-SEM) techniques. The antibacterial activity of the AgNPs was screened by agar well diffusion assay. Results: The zone of inhibition (ZOI) for APE was found to be in the range of 10.7–21.3 mm, for varying concentrations. The MIC values were in the range of 12.5% - 50% (v/v) and the MBC values indicated that a concentration of 50% (v/v) APE could kill 75% (6/8) test cultures. The presence of AgNPs was confirmed by UV-VIS spectroscopy and the surface-plasmon resonance peak was observed at 420 nm. The FEG-SEM analysis revealed that the most of AgNPs were spherical in shape and had 30-40 nm size range. All the test cultures were inhibited by the AgNPs and the average ZOI measured 19.25±2.7 mm. Conclusion: Phyllanthus emblica fruit extract might have therapeutic significance against pathogens and it can be used for green synthesis of silver nanoparticles. Keywords: Phyllanthus emblica, MIC, MBC, silver nanoparticles, UV-VIS, FEG-SEM

Momordica charantia (bitter melon) attenuates high-fat diet-associated oxidative stress and neuroinflammation

<p>Abstract</p> <p>Background</p> <p>The rising epidemic of obesity is associated with cognitive decline and is considered as one of the major risk factors for neurodegenerative diseases. Neuroinflammation is a critical component in the progression of several neurological and neurodegenerative diseases. Increased metabolic flux to the brain during overnutrition and obesity can orchestrate stress response, blood-brain barrier (BBB) disruption, recruitment of inflammatory immune cells from peripheral blood and microglial cells activation leading to neuroinflammation. The lack of an effective treatment for obesity-associated brain dysfunction may have far-reaching public health ramifications, urgently necessitating the identification of appropriate preventive and therapeutic strategies. The objective of our study was to investigate the neuroprotective effects of <it>Momordica charantia </it>(bitter melon) on high-fat diet (HFD)-associated BBB disruption, stress and neuroinflammatory cytokines.</p> <p>Methods</p> <p>C57BL/6 female mice were fed HFD with and without bitter melon (BM) for 16 weeks. BBB disruption was analyzed using Evans blue dye. Phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) perfused brains were analyzed for neuroinflammatory markers such as interleukin-22 (IL-22), IL-17R, IL-16, NF-κB1, and glial cells activation markers such as Iba1, CD11b, GFAP and S100β. Additionally, antioxidant enzymes, ER-stress proteins, and stress-resistant transcription factors, sirtuin 1 (Sirt1) and forkhead box class O transcription factor (FoxO) were analyzed using microarray, quantitative real-time RT-PCR, western immunoblotting and enzymatic assays. Systemic inflammation was analyzed using cytokine antibody array.</p> <p>Results</p> <p>BM ameliorated HFD-associated changes in BBB permeability as evident by reduced leakage of Evans blue dye. HFD-induced glial cells activation and expression of neuroinflammatory markers such as NF-κB1, IL-16, IL-22 as well as IL-17R were normalized in the brains of mice supplemented with BM. Similarly, HFD-induced brain oxidative stress was significantly reduced by BM supplementation with a concomitant reduction in FoxO, normalization of Sirt1 protein expression and up-regulation of Sirt3 mRNA expression. Furthermore, plasma antioxidant enzymes and pro-inflammatory cytokines were also normalized in mice fed HFD with BM as compared to HFD-fed mice.</p> <p>Conclusions</p> <p>Functional foods such as BM offer a unique therapeutic strategy to improve obesity-associated peripheral inflammation and neuroinflammation.</p

Systematic screening to integrate reproductive health services in India

This study, conducted in large public clinics and small health posts in the city of Vadodara, India, tested the effectiveness of a systematic screening technique in integrating reproductive health services at the provider level. The objective was to determine if women screened during clinic visits received more services, appointments, and referrals per visit than women who were not screened. Results show that in experimental group clinics the number of services per visit increased while control clinics experienced a slight decrease; the effect of systematic screening was smaller in health posts than in clinics. In experimental posts, services per visit increased by nine percent compared to a decrease of 16 percent among controls. The municipality of Vadodara will begin systematic screening in all clinics. Gujarat state, where Vadodara is located, also plans to adopt the intervention

Chiral Magnetism and High-Temperature Skyrmions in B20-Ordered Co-Si

Magnets with chiral crystal structures and helical spin structures have recently attracted much attention as potential spin-electronics materials, but their relatively low magnetic-ordering temperatures are a disadvantage. While cobalt has long been recognized as an element that promotes high-temperature magnetic ordering, most Co-rich alloys are achiral and exhibit collinear rather than helimagnetic order. Crystallographically, the B20-ordered compound CoSi is an exception due to its chiral structure, but it does not exhibit any kind of magnetic order. Here, we use nonequilibrium processing to produce B20-ordered Co1+xSi1−x with a maximum Co solubility of x = 0.043. Above a critical excess-Co content (xc = 0.028), the alloys are magnetically ordered, and for x = 0.043, a critical temperature Tc = 328 K is obtained, the highest among all B20-type magnets. The crystal structure of the alloy supports spin spirals caused by Dzyaloshinskii-Moriya interactions, and from magnetic measurements we estimate that the spirals have a periodicity of about 17 nm. Our density-functional calculations explain the combination of high magnetic- ordering temperature and short periodicity in terms of a quantum phase transition where excess-cobalt spins are coupled through the host matrix