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A novel class of nanomaterials as subunit nano vaccines has shown great potential for delivering antigens to the target in a safe and effective manner. Herein, functionalized superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticle (SPION) surfaces with conjugated a malaria protein (vaccine) and carboxyl groups have a comparatively high capacity to bind protein. SPIONs were synthesized using the chemical coprecipitation process, then coated with either 3-aminopropyltriethoxysilane or with PEG plus APTS and characterized using DSL-zeta potential, VSM, TG and SEM. Furthermore, SDS-PAGE was used to measure the amount of protein specifically attached to particles. The idea behind this project is that by gradually and continuously releasing the antigen, it could trigger and sustain a strong immune response over an extended period. The results showed that functionalized SPIONs conjugated to the PyMSP119 antigen might be exploited for the antigen's controlled release and could be applied to various types of antigens in the future. The current study results demonstrated the effectiveness of SPIONS-based antigen vaccination systems for eliciting antibody responses that may be suitable for a variety of illnesses not just malaria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO2 NPs) are photo-active metallic nanoparticles becoming promising agents in modern biomedical applications. Herein, a novel process for the synthesis of TiO2 NPs with high stability was developed by a sol–gel process and to investigate their cytotoxicity and antibacterial activity. Numerous experiments have been performed to confirm the morphologies, compositions, and physicochemical properties of prepared TiO2 NPs, such as field emission scanning electron microscopy, dynamic light scattering, Zeta potential, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction. MTT assay was applied to assess the cytotoxicity of the prepared nanoparticles. The results indicate that the synthesized nanoparticles' diameter is about 68 nm and contains the anatase phase, in the range of 2θ from 25 to 80 °C. The hydrodynamic radius of nanoparticles is about 140.4 nm, and the zeta potential of nanoparticles is about −44.6 mV. The MTT results have not shown any toxicity; the antibacterial inhibitory effect of TiO2 NPs at 200 mg/mL concentrations exhibited superior antibacterial activity at 15.9 ± 0.1, 14.0 ± 0.1 against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli, respectively. In conclusion, colloidal solutions with high stability were successfully synthesized, contributing to decreased dimensions and increased antibacterial properties. [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]

[Display omitted] In recent decades, there has been considerable interest in combining nanotechnology with other fields of study, particularly for creating biocompatible nanocomposites. These nanocomposites have the potential for various applications in biomedical science, biosensors, bio-chip design, drug delivery, and gene delivery, among others. These materials possess ecological friendliness, biodegradability, and biocompatibility, while also being purposefully designed to fulfill particular requirements. This endeavor led to the development of a novel category of biocompatible nanocomposites. These nanocomposites are created by combining suitable nanoparticles with materials that are both biocompatible and biodegradable to enhance specific physical, thermal, and other characteristics. The resulting biocompatible nanomaterials can be used as substitutes for natural substances in their ability to perform tasks or interact with biological systems. This study is to provide a comprehensive examination of the progress made in the development of biocompatible nanocomposites. This discussion focuses on the introduction of various types of nanocomposites, the synthesis fundamentals, the highlighting of their diverse characteristics, fundamental properties, and notable applications in biomedicine, electronics, energy storage, the environment, and packaging. The discussion examines several synthetic pathways, manufacturing methods, and approaches that serve as the foundation for producing biocompatible polymers and their associated nanocomposites. A comprehensive understanding of these materials is crucial for harnessing their inherent qualities in many sectors, fostering a more sustainable, environmentally friendly, and technologically advanced future. [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]

Chrysin, the natural bioactive flavone compound, has been identified in several edible materials such as honey, propolis, and passionflower with numerous biological potentials and pharmaceutical effects including antitumor, anti‐inflammatory, antiviral and antioxidant. The compound has been reported to have lower in vitro antioxidant activity compared to other flavone‐based structures such as quercetin, luteolin, and myricetin, which is mostly attributed to the higher hydroxylation and the presence of conjugated en‐diol structures in these flavonoids and the lack of these structural features in chrysin. On the contrary to the in vitro antioxidant effect of chrysin, the compound has exerted remarkable in vivo antioxidant activities in several models related to the liver, brain, heart, kidneys, and other soft tissues. The current review includes a discussion of the in vivo and in vitro antioxidant activity of chrysin compared to other common flavonoids. The study also covers subjects linked to chrysin antioxidants, such as its metabolism, bioavailability, and current formulations that aim to increase chrysin antioxidant impact and overcome its low bioavailability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Poly-L-lysine-coated superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPIONs-PLL) were prepared and used as a novel-carrier for the transfer of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) into neural stem cells (NSCs) under the beneficial influence of an external magnetic field. Pro-BDNF, a gene from human brain cDNA libraries, was obtained by polymerase chain reaction and constructed in a mammalian expression vector (PSecTag2/HygroB). The nanoparticles (NPs) were examined using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, zeta potential, and Transmission electron microscopy. From the results, the levels of BDNF among the transfected and untransfected cells were 30.326 ± 5.9 and 5.85 ± 3.11 pg/mL, respectively, as detected by an ELISA method. Moreover, the enhanced green fluorescent protein vector was used to evaluate the gene expression efficiency for SPIONs-PLL as a non-viral carrier in NSCs. This was performed under the influence of a magnetic field and the transfection reagents (such as Lipofectamine 2000), which served as a positive control. The histological analysis revealed that the concentration of intracellular NPs was significantly higher than intercellular NPs. These results suggest that SPIONs-PLL can serve as a novel alternative for the transfection of BDNF-NSCs and could be used in gene therapy. [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]

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]

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]

To synthesize silver nanoparticles suspended in deionized water, Elettaria cardamomum (Car) seed extract and Car@Ag nanoparticles were prepared in three steps. The first used a hot aqueous extract of Elettaria cardamomum seed, and then, the second used pulsed laser ablation technique (PLAL) by Nd:YAG laser (λ = 1064 nm wavelength) at laser energy of 400 mJ, and the number of pulses was 500 pulses and third step for the synthesis of creating a non-conjugated Elettaria cardamomum extract. Ultraviolet visible (UV–Vis) spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) were used to investigate the optical, structural, and morphological characterizations of synthesized Car@AgNPs. The nanoparticles were spherical in shape, and a size distribution exhibited a mean size of 21 nm, according to the TEM findings. AgNPs and Car@AgNPs have free radical scavenging activity in the DPPH assay. Additionally, Car@AgNPs were examined in vitro for zones of inhibition against pathogenic bacteria like Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. The inhibition rate of Escherichia coli was higher than that observed in Staphylococcus aureus. Finally, Car@AgNPs demonstrated a potential cytotoxicity agent breast cancer (MCF-7) cell line that was evaluated by MTT assay. [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]

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]

This paper describes the preparation, characterization, and evaluation of honey/tripolyphosphate (TPP)/chitosan (HTCs) nanofibers loaded with capsaicin derived from the natural extract of hot pepper (Capsicum annuumL.) and loaded with gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) as biocompatible antimicrobial nanofibrous wound bandages in topical skin treatments. The capsaicin and AuNPs were packed within HTCs in HTCs-capsaicin, HTCs-AuNP, and HTCs-AuNPs/capsaicin nanofibrous mats. In vitro antibacterial testing against Pasteurella multocida, Klebsiella rhinoscleromatis,Staphylococcus pyogenes, and Vibrio vulnificus was conducted in comparison with difloxacin and chloramphenicol antibiotics. Cell viability and proliferation of the developed nanofibers were evaluated using an MTT assay. Finally, in vivo study of the wound-closure process was performed on New Zealand white rabbits. The results indicate that HTCs-capsaicin and HTCs-AuNPs are suitable in inhibiting bacterial growth compared with HTCs and HTCs-capsaicin/AuNP nanofibers and antibiotics (P < 0.01). The MTT assay demonstrates that the nanofibrous mats increased cell proliferation compared with the untreated control (P < 0.01). In vivo results show that the developed mats enhanced the wound-closure rate more effectively than the control samples. The novel nanofibrous wound dressings provide a relatively rapid and efficacious wound-healing ability, making the obtained nanofibers promising candidates for the development of improved bandage materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the current study, the surface of superparamagnetic iron oxide (SPION) was coated with dextran (DEX), and conjugated with folic acid (FA), to enhance the targeted delivery and uptake of vinblastine (VBL) in PANC-1 pancreatic cancer cells. Numerous analyses were performed to validate the prepared FA-DEX-VBL-SPION, such as field emission scanning transmission electron microscopy, high-resolution transmission electron microscopy, dynamic light scattering (DLS), Zeta Potential, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and vibrating sample magnetometry (VSM). The delivery system capacity was evaluated by loading and release experiments. Moreover, in vitro biological studies, including a cytotoxicity study, cellular uptake assessment, apoptosis analysis, and real-time PCR, were carried out. The results revealed that the obtained nanocarrier was spherical with a suitable dispersion and without visible aggregation. Its average size, polydispersity, and zeta were 74 ± 13 nm, 0.080, and −45 mV, respectively. This dual functional nanocarrier also exhibited low cytotoxicity and a high apoptosis induction potential for successful VBL co-delivery. Real-time quantitative PCR analysis demonstrated the activation of caspase-3, NF-1, PDL-1, and H-ras inhibition, in PANC-1 cells treated with the FA-VBL-DEX-SPION nanostructure. Close inspection of the obtained data proved that the FA-VBL-DEX-SPION nanostructure possesses a noteworthy chemo-preventive effect on pancreatic cancer cells through the inhibition of cell proliferation and induction of apoptosis. [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]

Waste-water pollution by radioactive elements such as uranium has emerged as a major issue that might seriously harm human health. Graphene oxide, graphene oxide nanoribbons, and sodium alginate nanocomposite aerogels (GO/GONRs/SA) were combined to create a novel nanocomposite using a modified Hummer's process and freeze-drying as an efficient adsorbent. Batch studies were conducted to determine the adsorption of uranium (VI) by aerogel. Aerogels composed of (GO/GONRs/SA) were used as an effective adsorbent for the removal of U (VI) from aqueous solution. Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) were used to describe the structure, morphologies, and characteristics of (GO/GONRs/SA) aerogels. The initial concentration of uranium (VI) and other environmental factors on U (VI) adsorption were investigated, period of contact, pH, and temperature. A pseudo-second-order kinetic model can be employed to characterize the kinetics of U (VI) adsorption onto aerogels. The Langmuir model could be applied to understand the adsorption isotherm, and the maximum adsorption capacity was 929.16 mg/g. The adsorption reaction is endothermic and occurs spontaneously. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The central nervous system (CNS) disease known as multiple sclerosis (MS) is essentially an inflammatory demyelinating condition with a variety of clinical manifestations and variable histological findings. A number of immunological and biochemical markers may alter MS, which is also characterized as an autoimmune illness. MS patients (n = 100) were divided into two groups: newly diagnosed (n = 42) and patients with ongoing treatments (n = 58). These groups were compared to healthy subjects (n = 55); the mean age ±SD was (30±8.46 years), (37±8.06 years), and (31±8.73 years) for MS newly diagnosed patients, patients with ongoing treatments, and healthy subjects, respectively. Studies for serum levels of eotaxin-1, myelin basic protein (MBP), IL-23, 27, 9, and 37 were measured by the ELISA technique. Eotaxin-1, MBP, IL-23, 27, and alkaline phosphate were significantly higher in all MS patient groups, but for IL-37, there was no significant difference between newly diagnosed patients when compared with patients with ongoing treatment. Weak positive correlations were found between IL-9 and myelin (r = 0.282, p≤0.05) and a weak positive correlation between IL-23 and ALP (r = 0.209, p≤0.05) in MS patients. A receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was applied for the parameters eotaxin-1, MBP, IL-23, 27, and alkaline phosphate, which showed a high sensitivity according to the area under the curve. The present results conclude that eotaxin-1, MBP, IL-23, 27, and alkaline phosphate can be used as diagnostic markers for multiple sclerosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This contribution presents the biosynthesis, physiochemical properties, toxicity and photocatalytic activity of biogenic CeO2 NPs using, for the first time, marine oyster extract as an effective and rich source of bioreducing and capping/stabilizing agents in a one-pot recipe. CeO2 NPs formation was initially confirmed through the color change from light green to pale yellow and subsequently, their corresponding absorption peak was spectroscopically determined at 310 nm with an optical band-gap of 4.67 eV using the DR-UV technique. Further, XRD and Raman analyses indicated that nanoceria possessed face-centered cubic arrangements without any impurities, having an average crystallite size of 10 nm. TEM and SEM results revealed that biogenic CeO2 NPs was approximately spherical in shape with a median particle size of 15 ± 1 nm. The presence of various bioorganic substances on the surface of nanoparticles was deduced by FTIR and TGA results. It is found that marine-based nanoceria shows no cytotoxic effect on the normal cell, thus indicating their enhanced biocompatibility and biosafety to living organisms. Environmentally, due to energy band gap, visible light-activated CeO2 nanocatalyst revealed superior photocatalytic performance on degradation of methylene blue pollutant with removal rate of 99%. Owing to the simplicity, cost-effectiveness, and environmentally friendly nature, this novel marine biosynthetic route paves the way for prospective applications of nanoparticles in various areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Super-paramagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPION) contain a chemotherapeutic drug and are regarded as a promising technique for improving targeted delivery into cancer cells. Results: In this study, the fabrication of 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) was investigated with loaded Dextran (DEXSPION) using the co-precipitation technique and conjugated by folate (FA). These nanoparticles (NPs) were employed as carriers and anticancer compounds against liver cancer cells in vitro. Structural, magnetic, morphological characterization, size, and drug loading activities of the obtained FA-DEX-5-FUSPION NPs were checked using FTIR, VSM, FESEM, TEM, DLS, and zeta potential techniques. The cellular toxicity effect of FA-DEX-5-FU-SPION NPs was evaluated using the MTT test on liver cancer (SNU-423) and healthy cells (LO2). Furthermore, the apoptosis measurement and the expression levels of NF-1, Her-2/neu, c-Raf-1, and Wnt-1 genes were evaluated post-treatment using flow cytometry and RT-PCR, respectively. The obtained NPs were spherical with a suitable dispersity without noticeable aggregation. The size of the NPs, polydispersity, and zeta were 74 ± 13 nm, 0.080 and -45 mV, respectively. The results of the encapsulation efficiency of the nano-compound showed highly colloidal stability and proper drug maintenance. The results indicated that FA-DEX-5-FU-SPION demonstrated a sustained release profile of 5-FU in both phosphate and citrate buffer solutions separately, with higher cytotoxicity against SNU-423 cells than against other cells types. These findings suggest that FA-DEX-SPION NPs exert synergistic effects for targeting intracellular delivery of 5-FU, apoptosis induction, and gene expression stimulation. Conclusions: The findings proved that FA-DEX-5-FU-SPION presented remarkable antitumor properties; no adverse subsequences were revealed against normal cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, gold nanoparticles (NPs) have been synthesized using second harmonic generation ND-YAG laser ablation in ethanol employing 532 nm and 1.064 nm wavelengths. Field emission scanning electron microscope (FESEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), atomic force microscopy (AFM), photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopy, and UV–Vis absorption were employed to examine the structural, chemical, and optical properties of Au NPs. XRD results showed that all synthesized Au nanoparticles are crystalline in nature. The optical band gap upon ablation using the higher wavelength (1064 nm) was about 4.02 eV. The value of the optical band gap increases to reach a value of 4.22 eV at the shorter wavelength (532 nm). The FESEM results reveal the formation of smaller nanorod size at second harmonic generation (SHG) wavelength was found to be about 30 nm at wavelength 532 nm and 44 nm at 1064 nm. After that, finite element analysis is used to simulate the photonic crystal fiber (PCF) as biosensors, depending on the surface plasmon resonance (SPR) phenomenon using the COMSOL multiphasic program. The hollow core photonic crystal fiber (HC-PCF) HC-800 was thus overfilled with water. The confinement loss (CL) of the fundamental mode for the proposed PCF with and without the gold nanoparticles was calculated; we observe without gold NPs the CL at the water and colon tissue about 1.08E + 03 and 5.46E + 02 dB/m, while at use the deposited PCF with gold NPs, the results ensured the decrease more than in the confinement loss at the water and colon tissue about 1.01E + 03 and 3.16E + 02 dB/m with a clear shift toward higher wavelengths, also when calculating the sensitivity, to increase HC-PCF biosensor performance by using wavelength interrogation and amplitude measurements; it found the bio-liquid (colon tissue) has the best electric field using the gold nanowire (NW) layer in the biosensor equal to 68.8 V/m by comparison when without using the gold NW layer which leads to high sensitivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Combining viruses and nanoparticles may be a way to successfully treat cancer and minimize adverse effects. The current work aimed to evaluate the efficacy of a specific combination of gold nanoparticles (GNPs) and Newcastle disease virus (NDV) to enhance the antitumor effect of breast cancer in both in vitro and in vivo models. Two human breast cancer cell lines (MCF-7 and AMJ-13) and a normal epithelial cell line (HBL-100) were used and treated with NDV and/or GNPs. The MTT assay was used to study the anticancer potentials of NDV and GNP. The colony formation assay and apoptosis markers were used to confirm the killing mechanisms of NDV and GNP against breast cancer cell lines. p53 and caspase-9 expression tested by the qRT-PCR technique. Our results showed that combination therapy had a significant killing effect against breast cancer cells. The findings demonstrated that NDV and GNPs induced apoptosis in cancer cells by activating caspase-9, the p53 protein, and other proteins related to apoptosis, which holds promise as a combination therapy for breast cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study planned to estimate biological parameters linked to rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients, detecting the influence of MTX and biotherapy treatments on these parameters and synthesizing methotrexate bovine serum albumin nanoparticles linked to folate (FA-MTX-BSA NPs) to reduce the overwhelming expression of inflammatory cytokines. Inflammatory parameters showed significant increases in newly diagnosed and MTX-receiving groups while no changes were observed in the biotherapy-maintained group. MTX-loaded BSA nanoparticles were fabricated by the desolvation method and further linked to activated folic acid to obtain FA-MTX-BSA NPs. FA-MTX-BSA NPs were successfully characterized within the nanoscale range using different screening techniques. FA-MTX-BSA NPs showed an in vitro release in a sustained manner. The potential of MTX, MTX-BSA NPs, and FA-MTX-BSA NPs in inducing cytokine level reduction was detected. Significant decreases in interleukin- 1 beta (IL-1β), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) levels were obtained in cultures treated with FA-MTX-BSA NPs compared to the untreated culture in a dose-dependent pattern. Furthermore, FA-MTX-BSA NPs comparing with MTX and MTX-BSA NPs exhibited a significant advanced effect in decreasing cytokines levels. Accordingly, the conjunction of BSA NPs and MTX linked to folate potentially reduced cytokines manifestation in RA. [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]

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]

Under conventional and silica-supported Muffle furnace methods, water-soluble substituted trimeric triaryl pyridinium cations with various inorganic counter anions are synthesized. The solvent-free synthesis method is superior to the conventional method in terms of non-toxicity, quicker reaction times, ease of workup, and higher yields. Trimeric substituted pyridinium salts acted as excellent catalytic responses for the preparation of Gem-bisamide derivatives compared with available literature. To evaluate the molecular docking, benzyl/4-nitrobenzyl substituted triaryl pyridinium salt compounds with VEGFR-2 kinase were used with H-bonds, π–π stacking, salt bridges, and hydrophobic contacts. The results showed that the VEGFR-2 kinase protein had the most potent inhibitory activity. Intriguingly, the compound [NBTAPy]PF6- had a strongly binds to VEGFR-2 kinase and controlled its activity in cancer treatment and prevention. [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]

We investigated the anti-cancer properties of gold nanoparticles loaded TNF- and CALNN peptides, which we proposed as a potential drug delivery system using in vitro and in vivo models. The binding of GNPs-TNF- and GNPs-TNF-CALNN was characterized using a UV, ELISA and SEM analysis. The outcomes demonstrated that a novel drug delivery system had an anti-proliferative activity against breast cancer cell lines through a mechanism of apoptosis induction. In vivo model involved studying the cytotoxic influence of a drug delivery system GNPs, GNPs-TNF-α and GNPs-TNF-α-CALNN when applied to the transplanted AN-3 cell line. tumor sections were examined using microarray. In-vivo studies demonstrated that GNPs alone had less of a growth inhibitory effect on tumors implanted in mice when compared to GNPs-TNF – CALNN combined therapy. The cytotoxic assay showed that GNPs, GNPs-TNF-α and GNPs-TNF-α-CALNN exhibit selective toxicity towards cancer cells, inducing cell apoptosis through activation of caspase-3 and 7, p53 protein. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated for the first time a simple bio-synthesis approach for the synthesis of copper oxide nanoparticles (CuO NPs) using Annona muricata L (A. muricata) plant extract to test their anti-cancer effects. The presence of CuONPs was confirmed by UV–visible spectroscopy, Scanning electron microscope (SEM), and Transmission electron microscope (TEM). The antiproliferative properties of the synthesized nanoparticles were evaluated against (AMJ-13), (MCF-7) breast cancer cell lines, and the human breast epithelial cell line (HBL-100) as healthy cells. This study indicates that CuONPs reduced cell proliferation for AMJ-13 and MCF-7. HBL-100 cells were not significantly inhibited for several concentration levels or test periods. The outcomes suggest that the prepared copper oxide nanoparticles acted against the growth of specific cell lines observed in breast cancer. It was observed that cancer cells had minor colony creation after 24 h sustained CuONPs exposure using (IC50) concentration for AMJ-13 was (17.04 µg mL−1). While for MCF-7 cells was (18.92 µg mL−1). It indicates the uptake of CuONPs by cancer cells, triggering apoptosis. Moreover, treatment with CuONPs enhanced Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) production, probably caused by cell membrane damage, creating leaks comprising cellular substances like lactate dehydrogenase. Hence, research results suggested that the synthesized CuONPs precipitated anti-proliferative effects by triggering cell death through apoptosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Silver Oxide nanoparticles (AgONPs) have been revealed to have many applications, including antibacterial behavior. However, the conventional methods for synthesizing AgO NPs often use toxic chemicals that may be detrimental to human health and environmental factors. The crystalline structure and size of obtained AgO NPs were confirmed by Powder X-ray diffraction analysis with 35–70 nm. Functional groups have been identified in Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The result of Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy confirmed the presence of the elements in the synthesized AgO NPs. The energy band gap is determined using UV–visible spectroscopy. Morphological examination of prepared AgO NPs, comprising spherical and rod-like structures, was performed using a Transmission, and scanning electron microscope. The antibacterial activity was evaluated using Gram-negative (Klebsiella pneumonia, Escherichia coli) and Gram-positive (Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus cereus) bacteria from Agar Well Diffusion Method. The results show that the green synthesis of AgO NPs have better antibacterial activity. The inhibition zone diameter were observedfor all microorganisms. The green synthesis of AgO NPs from herbal plant leaf extracts is a promising method for developing safe and effective antibacterial agents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this contribution, we report the screening of different parameters contributing to the electrodeposition of Cu2O nanostructures as an electrode material to provide an overall understanding of the effect of the entire method conditions. We varied different parameters (pH, potential, and deposition time) during the electrodeposition of cuprous oxide (Cu2O) thin films on ITO glass substrate and integrated different methods: X-ray diffraction (XRD), UV-vis absorption (UV-Vis), scanning electron microscope (SEM), cyclic voltammetry (CV), and chronoamperometry (CA) to deeply examine the as-synthesized materials and interrogate their efficiency towards the conversion of light to current (photo-current). From the chronoamperometry experiments, all the curves of current transients exhibit a typical response of a progressive 3D nucleation growth. Highly crystalline Cu2O structures of nano-cubes can be seen in the XRD and SEM results at high pH (12.5) and at potentials -0.5 and -0.6 V Vs. SCE during 60 min of deposition time. UV-Vis results showed high optical absorption in the region of 300-500 nm. The photocurrent measurements of Cu2O coupled with Cu-doped ZnO suggested that the synthesized Cu2O proved to be the best candidate as a solar cell. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Antibiotic amikacin was conjugated with to gold nanoparticles (GNPs) using Pulsed laser ablation. • The GNPs and the antibiotic amikacin formulation was characterized. • The formulation was assessed for antibacterial and antibiofilm formation within contact lenses. Contact lenses are a widely utilized tool for both cosmetic and eyesight corrective purposes. Additionally, they are a direct contributor to microbial keratitis and corneal infections, particularly those caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa infections. This study aimed to conjugate amikacin to gold nanoparticles (GNPs) and assess the formulation's antibacterial and antibiofilm formation within contact lenses. The safe and environmentally friendly method, Pulsed laser ablation (PLAL), was used to prepare the amikacin-conjugated gold nanoparticles (Am@GNPs). The characterization of the produced formula was studied using a spectrophotometer UV light, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and Fourier transforms infrared (FT-IR). Compared to the GNPs and the antibiotic amikacin, the anti-biofilm activity of Am@GNPs was measured using atomic force microscopy (AFM), whereas the antibacterial activity was measured by the well diffusion and microdilution methods against the most prevalent contact lens microbial isolates, i.e. , P. aeruginosa and Streptococcus pneumonia. The formulation, Am@GNPs, was induced higher inhibition zone and lower MIC values compared to the GNPs and the amikacin antibiotic, the effect which was more pronounced against P. aeruginosa than S. pneumonia bacterial strains. Application of Am@GNPs to the contact lenses also potentially reduced P. aeruginosa and S. pneumoniae biofilm formation, with the lowest biofilm thickness compared to the amikacin and GNPs, as demonstrated by the AFM scanning. According to current findings, the prepared Am@GNPs exhibited substantial antibacterial effects and could be a potential preservative formula for contact lenses and other eye-related medical devices. [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]

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]

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]

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]

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]

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]

Parkinson disease (PD) is a common brain neurodegenerative disease due to progressive degeneration of the dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra pars compacta (SNpc). Of note, the cardio-metabolic disorders such as hypertension are adversely affect PD neuropathology through exaggeration of renin-angiotensin system (RAS). The RAS affects the stability of dopaminergic neurons in the SNpc, and exaggeration of angiotensin II (AngII) is implicated in the development and progression of PD. RAS has two axes classical including angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE)/AngII/AT1R, and the non-classical axis which include ACE2/Ang1–7/Mas receptor, AngIII, AngIV, AT2R, and AT4R. It has been shown that brain RAS is differs from that of systemic RAS that produce specific neuronal effects. As well, there is an association between brain RAS and PD. Therefore, this review aims to revise from published articles the role of brain RAS in the pathogenesis of PD focusing on the non-classical pathway, and how targeting of this axis can modulate PD neuropathology. • PD neuropathology may be associated with the exaggeration of brain RAS. • The classical pathway of brain RAS has a harmful effect on the dopaminergic neurons in the SNpc. • The non-classical pathway of brain RAS counteracts the detrimental effect of the classical pathway of brain RAS. • ARBs and ACEIs have neuroprotective effects against PD by reducing and increasing the classical and non-classical pathways. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In Alzheimer disease (AD), amyloid precursor protein (APP) and production of amyloid beta (Aβ) which is generated by amyloidogenic pathway is implicated in neurotoxicity and neuronal cell deaths. However, physiological Aβ level is essential to improves neuronal survival, attenuates neuronal apoptosis and has neuroprotective effect. In addition, physiological APP level has neurotrophic effect on the central nervous system (CNS). APP has a critical role in the brain growth and development via activation of long-term potentiation (LTP) and acceleration of neurite outgrowth. Moreover, APP is cleaved by α secretase to form a neuroprotective soluble APP alpha (sAPPα) in non-amyloidogenic pathway. Consequently, this mini-review purposes to highlight the possible beneficial role of APP and Aβ. In addition, this mini-review discussed the modulation of APP processing and Aβ production. • APP is a major source of Aβ peptide in the pathogenesis of AD. • APP is cleaved by ; amyloidogenic pathway which form Aβ, and non-amyloidogenic pathway which form the neuroprotective sAPPα. • Activation or inhibition of non-amyloidogenic pathways could be effective therapeutic strategy for AD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the demand for better chronic wound care, the clinical problem of managing wound infections has already reached a critical level. Therefore, the development of novel antibiotic-free wound dressings is essential for wound care. The proteolytic enzyme bromelain, silver nanoparticles (AgNPs), and bromelain loaded on silver nanoparticles (Br-AgNPs) were assessed for their impact on wound healing in the albino mice. The formulated nanoparticles were characterized using different techniques, i.e., ultraviolet (UV), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), and X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis. The antibacterial and fungal activities of the formulated nanoparticles were also investigated. After 5 days of treatment, the wound healing progression and wound size reduction rate were monitored. In addition, serum and skin tissue samples were collected to assess the changes in inflammation levels and observe the histological changes. The results indicated a spherical shape and regular distribution of the synthesized gold nanoparticles, with an average particle size of 41.33–61.30 nm, where the size was about 39.84 and 82.91 nm after loading bromelain. The Br-AgNPs were the most active antimicrobial agents against Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Candida albicans, as compared to the other samples and positive controls. The fibronectin and collagen III levels were significantly increased in the animal groups treated with bromelain and Br-AgNPs (7132.52 ± 324.67 and 7006.00 ± 565.19 pg/ml, respectively), compared to the negative control group. Moreover, wound closure was significantly enhanced in the Br-AgNP-treated animals compared to the other treated and control groups. The histopathological analysis supported the wound healing potential of the Br-AgNPs through their ability to induce dense fibrous connective tissue in the wound area, which was rich in irregular bundles of collagen fibers and interspersed with numerous fibroblasts. The present findings could provide valuable insight into how Br-AgNPs can accelerate wound healing, reduce recovery time, and provide an antimicrobial barrier for wounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present work, raw materials, namely zinc acetate dihydrate, iron nitrate nonahydrate, and solvent 2-methoxyethanol, were utilized to synthesize zinc ferrite nanoparticles by sol–gel method. The synthesized material was annealed at different temperatures of 500 °C, 600 °C, and 700 °C to study its effect on morphological, optical, and magnetic properties. Formation of single phase spinel cubic structure with intense peak orientation along (311) direction was confirmed by powder X-ray diffraction pattern. FESEM and EDX spectra of the annealed samples confirmed the surface morphology and elemental composition. UV–visible spectral analysis was used to examine the optical properties of the samples. VSM at room temperature revealed the ferromagnetic behavior of zinc ferrite nanoparticles. All the prepared samples at different annealing temperatures showed good antibacterial properties against different bacterial strains. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mycoplasma infections are among the most common causes of eye infection in cattle worldwide. The purpose of this work was to use a DNA-based method to investigate the presence of Mycoplasma spp. in the conjunctival sac of diseased and healthy calves and heifers. Between May 2018 and August 2019, a total of 116 eye swab samples were taken from seven industrial dairy farms in Al- Najaf province, where 85 samples were collected from diseased animals and 31 from healthy animals. Concerning the PCR test, 6.4% and 28.2% were respectively positive for healthy and diseased animals. Conjunctivitis, keratoconjunctivitis and corneal ulcers were reported in 52%, 31% and 17% of the diseased group, respectively. In conclusion, Mycoplasma spp. important bovine pathogen causing multiple eye lesions that can not be identified due to their asymptomatic nature. [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]

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]