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The current study proposed a novel simple and environmentally friendly approach for producing silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using an extract of Moringa oleifera leaves (MOL) and optimizing the different experimental factors required for the formation and stability of AgNPs. The formation of nanoparticles was confirmed by a color change from yellow to reddish-brown with a surface plasmon resonance band at 412 nm. The morphology, size, and elemental composition of AgNPs were investigated by zeta potential dynamic light scattering, field emission scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive X-ray, X-ray diffraction, and transmission electron microscopy analysis, which showed crystalline and spherical AgNPs. The identification of functional groups was supported by Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy. The photocatalytic activities of AgNPs were assessed in the degradation of organic Malachite green (MG) dye in the aqueous solution. Two kinetic adsorption models, the pseudo-first-order model and the pseudo-second-order model, and three isotherm models, the Langmuir, Freundlich, and Temkin, were used to mathematically characterize the MG degradation process. The pseudo-second-order kinetics and the Freundlich isotherm model were found to be in good agreement with the experimental data. As a result of their synergistic interaction with the MOL extract solution, the photocatalytic activity of AgNPs increases and they can successfully adapt to the photodegradation of organic dyes in industrial effluents.

Hybrid nanomaterials with unique physiochemical properties have received a lot of attention, making them attractive for application in different fields like cancer treatment. This study was designed to investigate the combined effects of single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) hybridized with silver titanium dioxide composite (SWCNTs@Ag–TiO2). Transmission electron microscopy and field emission scanning electron microscopy images demonstrated the accumulation of SWCNTs with Ag–TiO2 due to an increased main grain size with functionalization to 40 nm. The D and G bands in SWCNTs @Ag–TiO2 shifted to 1,366 and 1,534 cm−1, respectively. SWCNTs@Ag-TiO2 were assessed for their cytotoxicity and autophagy induction in liver cancer cells (Hep-G2) using the lactate dehydrogenase assay, MTT assay, and flow cytometry methods. The results showed that SWCNTs and SWCNTs@Ag–TiO2 exhibited strong anti-cancer activity in vitro against Hep-G2 cells by inducing apoptosis and autophagy in liver cancer cells via controlling the AKT and JNK mitogen-activated protein kinase pathways. The results show that SWCNTs and SWCNTs coated with silver/titanium dioxide (SWCNTs@Ag–TiO2) reduce the cells’ viability and proliferation. It was shown that an excessive amount of reactive oxygen species was a crucial mediator of both the cell death caused by SWCNTs and the cell death caused by SWCNTs combined with Ag–TiO2. Based on these findings, it appears that SWCNTs and SWCNTs@Ag–TiO2 have the potential to be developed as nanotherapeutics for the treatment of liver cancer cells.

Ajuga iva (L.) Schreb. is a well-known antidiabetic medicinal plant used for several traditional medicine aspects in different areas of the world, including Libya. This study includes phytochemical analysis, antidiabetic evaluation, and in silico studies of the plant, A. iva, growing in Libya. The constituents of the plant were profiled using LC-MS/MS-QTOF analysis, and a total of 28 compounds were tentatively identified, including engeletin, pyrocatechol, eriodyctiol-7-hexoside, and 3,4-dihydroxybenzaldehyde, as major constituents. In addition, the steroidal compounds, i.e., 20-hydroxyecdysone, 24-dehydroprecyasterone, makisterone A, and ajugasterone D, which are considered chemomarkers for the plant, were also annotated by LC-MS analysis. The plant extract induced inhibition of α-amylase and α-glucosidase enzymes at IC50 values of 0.18 and 0.12 mg/mL, compared to the IC50 of the standard acarbose at 0.11 and 0.09 mg/mL, respectively. Fasting blood glucose (FBG, 360.7 mg/dL) levels were significantly reduced by the treatment of streptozotocin (STZ)-diabetic animals with 400 mg/kg (140.5 mg/dl) and 500 mg/kg (112.3 mg/dL) doses of the plant extract. The plant extract also induced a significant (p < 0.01) increase in insulin serum level compared to the untreated diabetic rats; however, the higher dose of the plant induced similar insulin induction compared to glibenclamide. Histopathological examination of the pancreatic and liver tissues indicated that A. iva extract induced regeneration in the islets of Langerhans and liver cells compared to the untreated diabetic rats. Docking analysis demonstrated that eriodyctiol-7-hexoside, echinacoside, and 2″-galloylhyperin showed the lowest binding energies to the target sites of α-amylase and α-glucosidase enzymes, indicating their potential role in A. iva antidiabetic bioactivities. The results support the recorded traditional bioactivity of A. iva as an antidiabetic herb, whereas its contents of polyphenols play a major role in the plant’s antidiabetic effect.

Solanum nigrum and Mentha leaf extracts were used as reducing and stabilizing reagents in the green synthesis of silver oxide nanoparticles (AgO NPs), and their antibacterial efficacy was subsequently evaluated. The structure and morphology of AgO NPs were evaluated using X-ray diffraction and filed emission scanning electron microscope. High-resolution transmission electron microscopy images were used to analyze the characteristics of certain particles with clearly discernible atomic structures. The functional group and elemental composition of AgO NPs were investigated using fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. Ultraviolet–visible spectroscopy was used to determine the energy band gap (E g) of the sample. The dielectric constant of both samples was found to be inversely proportional to frequency, whereas the dielectric loss was found to be directly proportional to temperature but directly proportional to frequency. This suggests that the space charge has an effect on the mechanism of charge transfer as well as polarizability. AC conductivity rises and is inversely proportional to temperature increases. AgO NPs had a size range of around 56 nm and were mostly spherical. The antibacterial potential of the synthesized AgO NPs using both extracts was compared by the well-diffusion method. AgO NPs at 50–100 µg·mL−1 concentration significantly inhibited the bacterial growth of Bacillus cereus, Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, and Klebsiella pneumonia.

Gold nanoparticles (GNPs) tagged with peptides are pioneers in bioengineered cancer therapy. The aim of the current work was to elucidate the potential anticancer interactions between doxorubicin and GNPs loaded with tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α). To investigate whether GNPs loaded with TNF and doxorubicin could stimulate autophagy and apoptosis in breast cancer cells. Two human breast cancer cell lines, MCF-7 and AMJ-13, as well as different apoptotic and autophagy markers, were used. In both cell types, treatment with TNF-loaded GNPs in conjunction with doxorubicin increased the production of apoptotic proteins including Bad, caspase-3, caspase-7, and p53 with upregulation of the LC3-II and Beclin1 proteins. In addition, the findings showed that the mitogen-activated protein kinase signaling pathway was dramatically affected by the GNPs loaded with TNF-α and combined with doxorubicin. This had the effect of decreasing p-AKT while simultaneously increasing p-JNK1/2. The findings demonstrated that GNPs loaded with TNF-α and combined with doxorubicin can induce both autophagy and apoptosis in breast cancer cells. These results suggest that TNF- and doxorubicin-loaded GNPs provide a therapeutic option as a nanomedicine to inhibit the proliferation of breast cancer.

Green synthesis of nanoparticles (NPs) is a more sustainable, safe, and environmentally friendly method. This study aimed to investigate the synthesis procedure of iron oxide nanoparticles (IONPs) using the seed extract of Nigella sativa (N. sativa) as a strong reducing agent and to estimate their cytotoxic and antibacterial properties. The obtained IONPs were characterized by field-emission scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, dynamic light scattering (DLS), zeta potential (ZP), and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy analyses. The cytotoxicity of the biosynthesized IONPs was demonstrated by the MTT on a Vero cell line. Furthermore, the antibacterial activity of the fabricated biosynthesis metal oxide NPs was tested on Escherichia coli (E. coli) (ATCC 35218) and Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) (ATCC 29213) bacterial strains using the Kirby–Bauer disk diffusion method. This study showed the formation of a well-dispersed, highly stable (ZP ζ = −51.8 mV) IO NPs with an average diameter of about 31.45 nm. Moreover, the biosynthetic NPs (IONPs) exhibited a significantly noncytotoxic effect when analyzed by the MTT assay. The biosynthetic NPs (NS-IONPs) exhibited excellent antibacterial activity against E. coli and S. aureus, where the inhibition zones were 12.34 ± 0.58 and 11.52 ± 0.58, respectively.

The effective removal of organic dyes from aqueous solutions is of paramount importance in addressing environmental pollution challenges. Methylene blue (MB), a prevalent cationic dye in various industries, has raised concerns due to its persistence and potential adverse effects on ecosystems. This study explores the design, preparation, and characterization of Polycaprolactone–Chitosan (PCL–CH) nanofibers via electrospinning for the removal of MB. PCL, known for its biodegradability and mechanical properties, serves as the primary matrix, while chitosan (CH), with its biocompatibility and amino functionalities, offers enhanced adsorption potential. The electrospinning process yields nanofibers with tailored compositions and controlled morphology. The synthesized nanofibers are systematically characterized, encompassing structural analysis by Fourier transform infrared (FT–IR), spectroscopy, morphology, and composition assessment via Field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM) and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), zeta potential, as well as rheological behavior evaluation. The adsorption uptake of MB onto these nanofibers is investigated, considering the influence of solution pH and initial dye concentration. The results reveal significant enhancements in adsorption capacity, especially with the incorporation of CH, with the PCL–CH 30% nanofibers exhibiting outstanding performance. The pH-dependent behavior underscores the importance of environmental factors in the adsorption process, while higher dye concentrations provide a stronger driving force for adsorption. These findings position PCL–CH nanofibers as promising adsorbents for the efficient removal of MB and potentially other organic contaminants from aqueous solutions. The study contributes to the development of sustainable materials for environmental remediation, wastewater treatment, and related applications, aligning with ongoing efforts to address water pollution challenges. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bacterial resistance to different antimicrobial agents is growing with alarming speed, especially when bacterial cells are living in biofilm. Hybrid nanoparticles, synthesized through the green method, hold promise as a potential solution to this challenge. In this study, 66 actinomycete strains were isolated from three distinct marine sources: marine sediment, the algae Codium bursa, and the marine sponge Chondrosia reniformis. From the entirety of the isolated strains, one strain, S26, identified as Saccharopolyspora erythrea, was selected based on its taxonomic position and significant antimicrobial activity. Using the biomass of the selected marine Actinobacteria, the green synthesis of eco-friendly silver carbonate nanoparticles (BioAg2CO3NPs) is reported for the first time in this pioneering study. The BioAg2CO3NPs were characterized using different spectroscopic and microscopic analyses; the synthesized BioAg2CO3NPs primarily exhibit a triangular shape, with an approximate size of 100 nm. Biological activity evaluation indicated that the BioAg2CO3NPs exhibited good antimicrobial activity against all tested microorganisms and were able to remove 58% of the biofilm formed by the Klebsiella pneumoniae kp6 strain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recent years have seen an increase in the acceptance of green chemistry as a viable method for producing nanoparticles. The aim of this work was to investigate the cytotoxicity, antioxidant effect, and hemocompatibility of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) produced utilizing Capparis spinosa L. (C. spinosa L.) fruit extract as a powerful reducing agent. The reaction rate and ZnO NPs' shape concerning extract concentration, contact time, pH, and temperature were investigated. The production and characterization of ZnO-NPs were confirmed by ultraviolet spectroscopy (U-V), Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS), zeta potential, Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscope (FESEM), X-ray Diffraction (XRD), and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR). The antioxidant activity of ZnO NPs was performed by DPPH assay; hemocompatibility of the erythrocytes and cell-cytotoxic properties were investigated using MTT assay. XRD confirmed the production of highly pure, crystalline ZnO-NPs, while FESEM analyses revealed that these particles were agglomerated and spherical, with an average size of about 37.49 nm. Moreover, UV-Vis absorption was revealed at 366 nm, and tests of ZnO NPs' ζ potential and DLS revealed values of −44.76 mV and 116.80 nm, respectively. ZnO NPs exhibited good biocompatibility with RBCs in hemolytic activity experiments and did not exhibit any hemolytic reaction at doses ranging from 7.5 to 120 μg/mL. The study concluded that greenly generated ZnO NPs had good antioxidant activity and little cytotoxicity and can thus possibly be developed as a useful therapeutic option. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: The cytotoxic effects of graphene oxide nanoparticles (GONPs) using MTT assays, observance of apoptotic markers, and oxidative stress were outlined. Materials & methods: Rat embryonic fibroblasts (REFs) and human epithelial breast cells (HBLs) were used at 250, 500 and 750 μg/ml concentrations. Results: Significant cytotoxic and apoptotic effects were observed. Analyses of CYP2E1 and malondialdehyde concentrations in REF and HBL-100 cell lines after exposing to GONPs confirmed the nanomaterials toxicity. However, the glutathione levels in REF and HBL-100 cell lines showed a substantial reduction compared with the control. The cytochrome CYP2E1, glutathione, malondialdehyde and caspase-3 alterations provided a plausible interlinked relationship. Conclusion: The study confirmed the GONPs cytotoxic effects on REF and HBL-100 cell lines. The outcome suggested caution in wide-spread applications of GONPs, which could have implications for occupational health also. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Combination of bovine serum albumin with microemulsions as constituting ingredient biopolymer has long been regarded an innovative method to address the surface functionalization and stability issues in the targeted payload deliveries, thereupon producing effectively modified microemulsions, which are superior in loading capacity, transitional and shelf-stability, as well as site-directed/site-preferred delivery, has become a favored option. The current study aimed to develop an efficient, suitable and functional microemulsion system encapsulating sesame oil (SO) as a model payload towards developing an efficient delivery platform. UV-VIS, FT-IR, and FE-SEM were used to characterize, and analyze the developed carrier. Physicochemical properties assessments of the microemulsion by dynamic light scattering size distributions, zeta-potential, and electron micrographic analyses were performed. The mechanical properties for rheological behavior were also studied. The HFF-2 cell line and hemolysis assays were conducted to ascertain the cell viability, and in vitro biocompatibility. The in vivo toxicity was determined based on a predicted median lethal dose (LD50) model, wherein the liver enzymes' functions were also tested to assess and confirm the predicted toxicity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The sulfur content in crude oil and its derivatives negatively affects all aspects of life, especially economic, environmental and industrial. It is vital to create methods and materials that are both affordable and environmentally friendly in order to remove sulfur from crude oil. for this purpose titanium oxide (TiO2) and molybdenum trioxide (MoO3) nanoparticles were prepared by hydrothermal method at different temperatures and characterized by several techniques including using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), x-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier-Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FT-IR), zeta potential, and dynamic light scattering (DLS) to find out some physical and chemical properties of the prepared nano compounds, The results showed that (MoO3) was more efficient than (TiO2) in reducing the sulfur content of crude oil. This work presents a successful example of the preparation of TiO2 and MoO3 NPs based hydrothermal method and the successful application of these NPs as active components, for the potential sulfur compound adsorbents, supporting environmental treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new series of ternary metal complexes, including Co(II), Ni(II), Cu(II), and Zn(II), were synthesized and characterized by elemental analysis and diverse spectroscopic methods. The complexes were synthesized from respective metal salts with Schiff's-base-containing amino acids, salicylaldehyde derivatives, and heterocyclic bases. The amino acids containing Schiff bases showed promising pharmacological properties upon complexation. Based on satisfactory elemental analyses and various spectroscopic techniques, these complexes revealed a distorted, square pyramidal geometry around metal ions. The molecular structures of the complexes were optimized by DFT calculations. Quantum calculations were performed with the density functional method for which the LACVP++ basis set was used to find the optimized molecular structure of the complexes. The metal complexes were subjected to an electrochemical investigation to determine the redox behavior and oxidation state of the metal ions. Furthermore, all complexes were utilized for catalytic assets of a multi-component Mannich reaction for the preparation of -amino carbonyl derivatives. The synthesized complexes were tested to determine their antibacterial activity against E. coli, K. pneumoniae, and S. aureus bacteria. To evaluate the cytotoxic effects of the Cu(II) complexes, lung cancer (A549), cervical cancer (HeLa), and breast cancer (MCF-7) cells compared to normal cells, cell lines such as human dermal fibroblasts (HDF) were used. Further, the docking study parameters were supported, for which it was observed that the metal complexes could be effective in anticancer applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The goal of the current work was to create an antibacterial agent by using polycaprolactone/chitosan (PCL/CH) nanofibers loaded with Cordia myxa fruit extract (CMFE) as an antimicrobial agent for wound dressing. Several characteristics, including morphological, physicomechanical, and mechanical characteristics, surface wettability, antibacterial activity, cell viability, and in vitro drug release, were investigated. The inclusion of CMFE in PCL/CH led to increased swelling capability and maximum weight loss. The SEM images of the PCL/CH/CMFE mat showed a uniform topology free of beads and an average fiber diameter of 195.378 nm. Excellent antimicrobial activity was shown towards Escherichia coli (31.34 ± 0.42 mm), Salmonella enterica (30.27 ± 0.57 mm), Staphylococcus aureus (21.31 ± 0.17 mm), Bacillus subtilis (27.53 ± 1.53 mm), and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (22.17 ± 0.12 mm) based on the inhibition zone assay. The sample containing 5 wt% CMFE had a lower water contact angle (47 ± 3.7°), high porosity, and high swelling compared to the neat mat. The release of the 5% CMFE-loaded mat was proven to be based on anomalous non-Fickian diffusion using the Korsmeyer–Peppas model. Compared to the pure PCL membrane, the PCL-CH/CMFE membrane exhibited suitable cytocompatibility on L929 cells. In conclusion, the fabricated antimicrobial nanofibrous films demonstrated high bioavailability, with suitable properties that can be used in wound dressings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, biocompatible electrospun nanofiber scaffolds were produced using poly(-caprolactone (PCL)/chitosan (CS) and Nigella sativa (NS) seed extract, and their potential for biomedical applications was investigated. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), total porosity measurements, and water contact angle measurements were used to evaluate the electrospun nanofibrous mats. Additionally, the antibacterial activities of Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus were investigated, as well as cell cytotoxicity and antioxidant activity, using MTT and DPPH assays, respectively. The obtained PCL/CS/NS nanofiber mat was observed by SEM to have a homogeneous and bead-free morphology, with average diameters of 81.19 ± 4.38 nm. Contact angle measurements showed that the wettability of the electrospun PCL/Cs fiber mats decreased with the incorporation of NS when compared to the PCL/CS nanofiber mats. Efficient antibacterial activity against S. aureus and E. coli was displayed, and an in vitro cytotoxic assay demonstrated that the normal murine fibroblast cell line (L929 cells) remained viable after 24, 48, and 72 h following direct contact with the produced electrospun fiber mats. The results suggest that the PCL/CS/NS hydrophilic structure and the densely interconnected porous design are biocompatible materials, with the potential to treat and prevent microbial wound infections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bioactive plant chemicals are considered to be rich and useful for creating nanomaterials. The current work investigated the biosynthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using ethanolic flaxseed extract as an efficient reducing factor. The production of AgNPs was verified by color-shifting observation of the mixture of silver nitrate (AgNO3) from yellow to a reddish suspension after the addition of the extract and by evaluating it by UV–visible inspection. Additionally, FTIR spectrum was used to support the identification of functional groups. The morphology and structure of AgNPs were assessed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and X-ray diffraction (XRD) examinations, which revealed spherical AgNPs with a diameter of 46.98 ± 12.45 nm and a crystalline structure. The zeta potential (ZP) and dynamic light scattering (DLS) measurements of AgNPs revealed values of −44.5 mV and 231.8 nm, respectively, suggesting appropriate physical stability. The antibacterial activity of AgNPs was investigated against Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Staphylococcus aureus, and Streptococcus pyogenes, while the antioxidant effect was investigated using the DPPH technique. These obtained AgNPs could potentially be used as efficient antibacterial and antioxidant nanomaterials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Compared to traditional physical and chemical approaches, nanobiotechnology and plant-based green synthesis procedures offer significant advantages, as well as having a greater range of medical and biotechnological applications. Nanoparticles of zinc oxide (ZnO NPs) have recently been recognized as a promising option for many industries, including optics, electrics, packaged foods, and medicine, due to their biocompatibility, low cytotoxicity, and cost-effectiveness. Several studies have shown that zinc ions are important in triggering cell apoptosis by promoting the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROSs) and releasing zinc ions (Zn2+), which are toxic to cells. The toxic nature of the chemicals used in the synthesis of ZnO nanoparticles limits their clinical utility. An overview of recent developments in green ZnO NP synthesis is presented in this review, emphasizing plant parts as reducing agents and their medical applications, including their antimicrobial, anticancer, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties, as well as key mechanisms of action for these applications to facilitate further research on the biomedical fields in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current work concentrated on the green synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) through the use of aqueous Citruslimon zest extract, optimizing the different experimental factors required for the formation and stability of AgNPs. The preparation of nanoparticles was confirmed by the observation of the color change of the mixture of silver nitrate, after the addition of the plant extract, from yellow to a reddish-brown colloidal suspension and was established by detecting the surface plasmon resonance band at 535.5 nm, utilizing UV-Visible analysis. The optimum conditions were found to be 1 mM of silver nitrate concentration, a 1:9 ratio extract of the mixture, and a 4 h incubation period. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy spectrum indicated that the phytochemicals compounds present in Citrus limon zest extract had a fundamental effect on the production of AgNPs as a bio-reducing agent. The morphology, size, and elemental composition of AgNPs were investigated by zeta potential (ZP), dynamic light scattering (DLS), SEM, EDX, X-ray diffraction (XRD), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) analysis, which showed crystalline spherical silver nanoparticles. In addition, the antimicrobial and antioxidant properties of this bioactive silver nanoparticle were also investigated. The AgNPs showed excellent antibacterial activity against one Gram-negative pathogens bacteria, Escherichia coli, and one Gram-positive bacteria, Staphylococcus aureus, as well as antifungal activity against Candida albicans. The obtained results indicate that the antioxidant activity of this nanoparticle is significant. This bioactive silver nanoparticle can be used in biomedical and pharmacological fields. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Tissue damage caused by COVID-19 could be detected by several clinical indicators including hematological, immunological, biochemical, and inflammatory markers. This study was to detect these clinical parameters to reveal the correlation between the factors and their roles in the development of COVID-19, to explore the hazard factors in severe cases. Materials and Methods. A total of 200 participants of both sexes were included in the study, with an age range of (25–72) years, categorized into three main groups: 50 healthy individuals, 62 mild infected patients, and 88 severe infected patients with pneumonia. Different hematological and clinical parameters were included in the analysis (Basrah city, Iraq). Serum levels of interleukin-6 (IL-6), ferritin, and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) were assessed for all participants using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The liver, renal, and cardiac functions were assessed by clinical chemistry testing. Results. COVID-19 patients had leukocytosis, with an increased number of neutrophils and a decreased lymphocyte count, according to our findings. In regard to inflammatory parameters, both ESR and hs-CRP showed significant differences between the two groups, whereas IL-6 was significantly higher in the total severe group compared to the other two groups. Biochemical results revealed that each lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), ferritin, alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) had significant changes in the total severe group. Among pneumonic with an O2 requirement and pneumonic without an O2 requirement, there were significant differences in immunological and inflammatory markers (p > 0.05). The neutrophils-lymphocytes ratio (NLR) was highly elevated in severe who required O2. Moreover, IL-6, lymphocytes, and neutrophils were possible risk factors for COVID-19 infection, with the strongest influence of IL-6 with a high odds ratio (OR: 24.138, 95% CI: 8.437–30.65, p < 0.01). Furthermore, there were significant correlations among the indicators. Conclusion. Each of IL-6, lymphocytes, and neutrophils might represent major factors in the severity of COVID-19 and IL-6 plays the main role in inducing the inflammatory and pathophysiology process that is known as the cytokine storm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nanoparticles of gold with zinc oxide (Au@ZnO NPs) were prepared by laser ablation and then capped with curcumin nanoparticles (Cur-Au@ZnO NPs). The synthesized NPs were characterized using different techniques, including transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), UV-visible spectroscopy, and X-ray diffraction. In addition, the ability of NPs as a promising antibacterial agent was tested against Staphylococcus aureus through the agar well diffusion method and AO/EtBr staining assay. The results showed that the prepared nanoparticles (Cur-Au@ZnO) served as an antibacterial agent and can destroy the bacterial cells by losing the cell wall integrity and penetrating the cytoplasmic membrane. Moreover, the findings confirmed the role of the formed NPs in attenuation of the adherence and invasion of S. aureus to rat embryonic fibroblast (REF) cells. Furthermore, the activity of Cur-Au@ZnO NPs against the S. aureus α-hemolysin toxin was evaluated using the western blot technique, using human alveolar epithelial cells (A549), and through histopathology examination in a mouse model. In conclusion, the built Cur-Au@ZnO NPs can be used as a potential antibacterial agent and an inhibitor of α-hemolysin toxin secreted by S. aureus. These NPs may offer a new strategy in combating pathogen infections and in the future for biomedical and pharmaceutical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nano-fertilizers are innovative materials created by nanotechnology methodologies that may potentially replace traditional fertilizers due to their rapid absorption and controlled distribution of nutrients in plants. In the current study, phosphorous-containing hydroxyapatite nanoparticles (nHAP) were synthesized as a novel phosphorus nano-fertilizer using an environmentally friendly green synthesis approach using pomegranate peel (PPE) and coffee ground (CE) extracts. nHAPs were physicochemically characterized and biologically evaluated utilizing the analysis of biochemical parameters such as photosynthetic activity, carbohydrate levels, metabolites, and biocompatibility changes in Punica granatum L. Cytocompatibility with mammalian cells was also investigated based on MTT assay on a Vero cell line. Dynamic light scattering (DLS) and zeta potential analysis were used to characterize the nHAPs for size and surface charge as well as morphology using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The nHAPs were found to have different shapes with average sizes of 229.6 nm, 120.6 nm (nHAPs_PPE) and 167.5 nm, 153 nm (nHAPs_CE) using DLS and TEM, respectively. Overall, the present results showed that the synthesized nHAPs had a negative impact on the selected biochemical, cytotoxic, and genotoxic parameters, indicating that the evaluation of nHAP synthesized by this approach has a wide range of applications, especially as a nano-fertilizer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is considered as the fourth prevalent reason of cancer deaths. Interleukin 10 (IL10) and interleukin 17A (IL-17A) act as anti-inflammatory and pro-inflammatory cytokines, respectively, both being able to exert antitumor or pro-tumor roles in cancer. Serum levels for IL-10, IL-17A, and calcitriol were measured by ELISA. The CRC patient sample (n =90) consisted of newly diagnosed, before surgery, and after surgery groups, the results of which were compared with those of healthy subjects (n=30). IL-10 levels demonstrated significantly lower (P<0.001), significantly higher (P<0.001), and insignificant differences in the three groups, respectively, as compared to the control. Serum IL-17A levels were significantly higher (P<0.001) in all patient groups compared with healthy subjects, whereas calcitriol levels were significantly lower in most patients. In conclusion,low levels of IL-10 found in CRC patients at diagnosis could be used as a diagnostic marker for the disease. However, chemo-radiotherapy caused an increase in the levels of this cytokine, which were restored to normal following surgical intervention. In addition, a contribution of serum calcitriol in changing the levels of IL-10 in CRC patients was observed. High levels of IL-17A, regardless of patient group, indicated a strong association with CRC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carbon nanomaterials are ground-breaking two-dimensional materials with a wide range of applications because of their unique properties, which include excellent optical, electrical, thermal, and mechanical capabilities; biocompatibility; and inexpensive large-scale production costs. In this study, carbon nanostructural materials (CNMs) were effectively generated using a pulsed laser ablation method on a graphite target immersed in deionized water, and their cytotoxicity and antibacterial activities were evaluated. Lasing pulse duration, ns (1064 nm) with different laser energies (60-220 mJ), was employed for irradiating the target. The formation of CNMs was analyzed using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, which demonstrated that C–H, C–C, C–O, and C=C bonds were successfully formed. TEM micrographs observed CNM formation with a spherical shape and size ranging from 20 to 90 nm. The absorbance was measured using UV-Vis spectroscopy; it increased with increasing laser energy showing two broad shoulders around 210 and 305 nm. Thereafter, the antibacterial activity was tested against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus using the agar method. The results indicated that CNMs fabricated at laser energy 220 mJ have the highest activity against both strains and have presented inhibition zone (IZ) of about 34 ± 1.0 mm in S. aureus and 31 ± 1.5 mm for E. coli. A comparison with CNMs prepared at 160 mJ showed an IZ of 14 mm for S. aureus and of 12 mm for E. coli due to synergistic impact, while the cellular material release analysis displayed increased release with respect to the time of exposure due to inhibition of bacterial growth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objectives: Medicinal plants have recently received much interest because of the low production costs and fewer side effects associated with remedies made from them compared with chemical therapies. The current study investigated the antioxidant, antibacterial, and cytotoxicity properties of an ethanol extract of Cordiamyxa fruit (CMF) extract. Materials and Methods: The antioxidant activity of CMF was determined by measuring electron-donating ability with a 1,1-diphenyl-2picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assay. The phenolic content was calculated as Gallic acid equivalents using the Folin- Ciocalteu assay. To evaluate the efficiency of CMF, five multidrug-resistant bacterial strains (Salmonella enterica, Escherichia coli, Bacillus subtilis, Staphylococcus aureus, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa) were tested using the agar diffusion method. Furthermore, the cytotoxic activity of CMF was determined using 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-dipheltetrazolium (MTT) assay against a healthy fibroblast (L929) cell line. Results: The CMF ethanol extract was revealed to have substantial phenol and flavonoid content (113.71± 0.04 mg gallic acid/g dried extract and 68.9 ± 0.002 mg quercetin/g dried extract, respectively) that showed the highest percentage of DPPH inhibition (86.45%), which was achieved by ethanol extract at the concentration of 60 μg/ml,with excellent antibacterial activity against S. aureus, E. coli, S. enterica, B. subtilis, and P. aeruginosa (17.5 ± 1.0, 14.9 ± 1.0, 13.3 ± 1.5, 15.7 ± 1.0, and 13.8 ± 1.5 mm IZ, respectively). In addition, no expressive antiproliferative effect was recorded in the assessment of cytotoxicity on L929 cells. Conclusion: According to the current findings, CMF exhibits low cytotoxicity, antibacterial activity, and antioxidant properties in vitro and can be developed for pharmaceutical and medical uses in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Laser ablation in liquid was utilized to prepare a TiO2 NP suspension in in deionized distilled water using Q-switch Nd: YAG laser at various laser energies and ablation times. The samples were characterized using UV–visible absorption spectra obtained with a UV–visible spectrophotometer (UV-Vis,) Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and transmission electron microscope (TEM). While, UV-Vis spectra showed the characteristic band-to-band absorption peak of TiO2 NPs in the UV range. FTIR analysis showed the existence of O-Ti-O bond. XRD patterns indicated the presence of (101) and (112) plane crystalline phases of TiO2. TEM images showed a spherical-like structure of TiO2 NPs with various size distributions depending on the ablation period. It was also found that there is a relationship between laser ablation time and TiO2 NP size distribution, where longer ablation times led to the smaller size distribution. The antibacterial activity of TiO2 NPs was evaluated with different species of bacteria such as Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Proteus vulgaris, and Staphylococcus aureus, using the liquid approach. The optimum activity of TiO2 NPs is found to be against E. coli at 1000 μg mL−1. Furthermore, adding, TiO2 NPs (1000 μg mL−1) in the presence of amoxicillin has a synergic effect on E. coli and S. aureus growth, as measured by the well diffusion method. However, both E. coli (11.6 ± 0.57mm) and S. aureus (13.3 ± 0.57mm) were inhibited by this process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recently, there has been a growing interest in research on nanofibrous scaffolds developed by electrospinning bioactive plant extracts. In this study, the extract material obtained from the medicinal plant Inula graveolens (L.) was loaded on polycaprolactone (PCL) electrospun polymeric nanofibers. The combined mixture was prepared by 5% of I. graveolens at 8% (PCL) concentration and electrospun under optimal conditions. The chemical analysis, morphology, and crystallization of polymeric nanofibers were carried out by (FT-IR) spectrometer, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and XRD diffraction. Hydrophilicity was determined by a contact angle experiment. The strength was characterized, and the toxicity of scaffolds on the cell line of fibroblasts was finally investigated. The efficiency of nanofibers to enhance the proliferation of fibroblasts was evaluated in vitro using the optimal I. graveolens/PCL solutions. The results show that I. graveolens/PCL polymeric scaffolds exhibited dispersion in homogeneous nanofibers around 72 ± 963 nm in the ratio 70/30 (V:V), with no toxicity for cells, meaning that they can be used for biomedical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) have acquired large attention against microbial activity because of their distinctive properties associated with their size and shape. In current research, ZnO NPs produced by the Sol-gel method at room temperature were applied to evaluate its antibacterial activity against pathogenic bacterial strains of Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli obtained from Al-Sadr Hospital, Maysan, Iraq. The prepared nanoparticles were investigated by dynamic light scattering (DLS), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Antibacterial activity was tested by using the agar diffusion method, minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC), and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) after 24 h of exposure to prepared ZnO NPs. The size distribution, characterization, and morphology of nanoparticles showed around 100 nm as observed by DLS, and the formed nanoparticles were spherically confirmed by SEM. Additionally, results of the disc diffusion test showed significant inhibition of growth of both bacterial strains by ZnO NPs. In conclusion, ZnO NPs created by the sol-gel method had an excellent antibacterial effect, that could be used to produce ZnO NPs for biomedical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Green nanoparticle synthesis is an environmentally friendly approach that uses natural solvents. It is preferred over chemical and physical techniques due to the time and energy savings. This study aimed to synthesize zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) through a green method that used Phlomis leaf extract as an effective reducing agent. The synthesis and characterization of ZnO NPs were confirmed by UV-Vis spectrophotometry, Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray Diffraction (XRD), Dynamic light scattering (DLS), Zeta potential, and Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscope (FESEM) techniques. In vitro cytotoxicity was determined in L929 normal fibroblast cells using MTT assay. The antibacterial activity of ZnO nanoparticles was investigated using a disk-diffusion method against S. aureus and E. coli, as well as minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) content concentrations. XRD results confirmed the nanoparticles' crystalline structure. Nanoparticle sizes were found to be around 79 nm by FESEM, whereas the hydrodynamic radius of nanoparticles was estimated to be around 165 ± 3 nm by DLS. FTIR spectra revealed the formation of ZnO bonding and surfactant molecule adsorption on the surface of ZnO NPs. It is interesting to observe that aqueous extracts of Phlomis leave plant are efficient reducing agents for green synthesis of ZnO NPs in vitro, with no cytotoxic effect on L929 normal cells and a significant impact on the bacteria tested. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, a platinum(II) complex ([Pt(H2L)(PPh3)] complex) containing a thiocarbohydrazone as the ligand was tested as an anti-proliferative agent against ovarian adenocarcinoma (Caov-3) and human colorectal adenocarcinoma (HT-29) through MTT assays. Apoptotic markers were tested by the AO/PI double staining assay and DNA fragmentation test. Flow cytometry was conducted to measure cell cycle distribution, while the p53 and caspase-8 pathways were tested via immunofluorescence assay. Results demonstrated that the cytotoxic effect of the Pt(II)-thiocarbohydrazone complexes against Caov-3 and HT-29 cells was highly significant, and this effect triggered the activation of the p53 and caspase-8 pathways. Besides, apoptosis stimulated by the Pt(II)-thiocarbohydrazone complex was associated with cell cycle arrest at the G0/G1 phase. These findings suggest that the target complex inhibited the proliferation of Caov-3 and HT-29 cells, resulting in the arrest of the cell cycle and induction of apoptosis via the stimulation of the p53 and caspase-8 pathways. The present data suggests that the Pt(II)-thiocarbohydrazone complex could also be a promising chemotherapeutic agent for other types of cancer cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Flaky graphene oxide (GO) nanoparticles (NPs) were synthesized using Hummer's method and then capped with polyethylene glycol (PEG) by an esterification reaction, then loaded with Nigella sativa (N. sativa) seed extract. Aiming to investigate their potential use as a smart drug delivery system against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli, the spectral and structural characteristics of GO-PEG NPs were comprehensively analyzed by XRD, AFM, TEM, FTIR, and UV- Vis. XRD patterns revealed that GO-PEG had different crystalline structures and defects, as well as a higher interlayer spacing. AFM results showed GONPs with the main grain size of 24.41 nm, while GONPs–PEG revealed graphene oxide aggregation with the main grain size of 287.04 nm after loading N. sativa seed extract, which was verified by TEM examination. A strong OH bond appeared in FTIR spectra. Furthermore, UV- Vis absorbance peaks at (275, 284, 324, and 327) nm seemed to be correlated with GONPs, GO–PEG, N. sativa seed extract, and GO –PEG- N. sativa extract. The drug delivery system was observed to destroy the bacteria by permeating the bacterial nucleic acid and cytoplasmic membrane, resulting in the loss of cell wall integrity, nucleic acid damage, and increased cell-wall permeability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of whole blood and some biological specimens, such as urine, saliva, and seminal fluid are limited in clinical laboratory analysis due to the interference of proteins with other small molecules in the matrix and blood cells with optical detection methods. Previously, we developed a microfluidic device featuring an electrokinetic size and mobility trap (SMT) for on-chip extract, concentrate, and separate small molecules from a biological sample like whole blood. The device was used to on-chip filtrate the whole blood from the blood cells and plasma proteins and then on-chip extract and separate the aminoglycoside antibiotic drugs within 3 min. Herein, a novel microfluidic device featuring a nano-junction similar to those reported in the previous work formed by dielectric breakdown was developed for on-chip filtration and out-chip collection of blood plasma with a high extraction yield of 62% within less than 5 min. The filtered plasma was analyzed using our previous device to show the ability of this new device to remove blood cells and plasma proteins. The filtration device shows a high yield of plasma allowing it to detect a low concentration of analytes from the whole blood. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A dual-targeting nanomedicine composed of pH-sensitive superparamagnetic iron oxide core-gold shell SPION@Au, chitosan (CS), and folate (FA) was developed as a doxorubicin (DOX) antitumor medication. Microemulsion was used for preparation and cross-linking conjugation. The characteristics of the designed nanocomposite were studied using atomic force microscopy (AFM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction, UV-visible spectroscopy, Zeta potential and vibrating sample magnetometry (VSM), and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The prepared SPION@Au-CS-DOX-FA nanoparticles (NPs) were spherical with an average diameter of 102.6 ± 7 nm and displayed an elevated drug loading behavior and sustained drug release capacity. The SPION@Au-CS-DOX-FA NPs revealed long term anti-cancer efficacy due to their cytotoxic effect and apoptotic inducing efficiency in SkBr3 cell lines. Additionally, Real-time PCR outcomes significantly showed an increase in BAK and BAX expression and a decrease in BCL-XL and BCL-2. In vivo results revealed that SPION@Au significantly decreased the tumor size in treated mice through magnetization. In conclusion, prepared SPION@Au-CS-DOX-FA could be a beneficial drug formulation for clinical breast cancer treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Advanced nanobiotechnology provides safe and efficient drug delivery systems to deliver chemotherapy that targets cancer cells efficiently. Methods: A polymeric-magnetic nanocarrier was composed of a dextran (DEX) shell, a superparamagnetic iron oxide (SPION) core and was conjugated with folate (FA) to carry the anticancer drug vincristine (VNC) in Tera-1 testicular tumor cells. The molecular mechanisms by which apoptosis was induced were analyzed using flow cytometry and qPCR, which exhibited anticancer activity of nanoparticles (NPs). Results: This nanocarrier revealed a controlled release of VNC in citrate and phosphate buffer solutions that were maintained at pH 5.5 and pH 7.4, respectively. The Inhibitory concentration (IC50) values were greater than 5 mg/mL and displayed ten times higher cytotoxicity than the comparable free drug concentration. The Caspase-9 and P53 expressions were increased, whereas P21 and AKt1 decreased noticeably in the treated cells. The results point to the possible activation of apoptosis following treatment with NPs loaded with vincristine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]