Scopus Research — Hayder Ridha Salman

Polyphenol-functionalized metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) have emerged as a revolutionary paradigm in cancer therapeutics, combining the structural versatility of MOFs with the bioactive and multifunctional properties of polyphenols. This review comprehensively analyzes recent advancements in the design, synthesis, and biomedical applications of polyphenol-MOF hybrids for targeted drug delivery and synergistic cancer therapy. By leveraging polyphenols such as tannic acid, epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), gallic acid, and polydopamine, these hybrid systems exhibit enhanced biocompatibility, pH-responsive drug release, and tumor-targeting capabilities. Key innovations include the integration of polyphenol coatings or coordination networks with MOFs (e.g., ZIF-8, MIL-100, UiO-66) to enable stimuli-triggered cargo release, reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, and multimodal therapeutic effects (chemodynamic, photothermal, and sonodynamic therapy). Case studies highlight the role of polyphenol-MOF hybrids in overcoming limitations of conventional chemotherapy, such as poor drug solubility, off-target toxicity, and multidrug resistance. Furthermore, in vitro and in vivo evaluations demonstrate their efficacy in inducing apoptosis, depleting glutathione (GSH), and enhancing immunotherapy responses. Challenges such as scalability, long-term biosafety, and clinical translation are critically discussed, alongside future directions for engineering next-generation polyphenol-MOF nanoplatforms. This review underscores the transformative potential of polyphenol-MOF hybrids in precision oncology and advocates for their integration into mainstream cancer treatment strategies. © 2025 Elsevier Ltd

Diclofenac, a commonly prescribed NSAID, is frequently associated with gastric ulcer development. Emodin, a natural anthraquinone derivative, exhibits robust anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that may offer gastroprotective benefits. This study aimed to evaluate the protective and therapeutic effects of emodin on diclofenac-induced gastric ulcers in rats. A total of 56 male Wistar rats were randomly divided into seven groups (n = 8 each): healthy control, pre-induction, post-induction, pre-emodin, post-emodin, pre-esomeprazole, and post-esomeprazole. Gastric ulcers were induced with diclofenac (100 mg/kg), and emodin (10 mg/kg) or esomeprazole (20 mg/kg) was administered orally for 14 days, either before or after ulcer induction. Pre- and post-treatment with emodin significantly reduced ulcer indices, preserved mucosal integrity, and improved gastric pH, PGE2, and COX-1 levels, while decreasing gastric juice volume, pepsin, asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA), and alpha-1 antitrypsin (α1ATP). Emodin also attenuated oxidative stress, enhanced antioxidant defenses, reduced IL-6, and increased IL-10. Notably, it promoted angiogenesis via elevated VEGF and HGF and normalized diclofenac-induced histological alterations, supporting tissue repair. Emodin demonstrates potent gastroprotective and therapeutic effects against diclofenac-induced ulcers by modulating oxidative, inflammatory, and angiogenic pathways, highlighting its potential as a natural alternative to standard anti-ulcer therapy. © The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer-Verlag GmbH Germany, part of Springer Nature 2025.

Background: Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a critical condition that exhibits rapid deterioration in renal function, which is typically accompanied by oxidative stress and inflammation. L-carvone, a chiral monoterpenoid ketone with robust anti-oxidative and anti-inflammatory capacities. Objective: The current research tried to examine the beneficial effect of L-carvone on AKI induced by endotoxin in mice and its underlying mechanisms. Methods: 36 BALB/c male mice were allocated into six groups: control (received normal saline only), model (obtained lipopolysaccharide (LPS) 10 mg/kg as a single dose), and vehicle (received corn oil for five days, then LPS 10 mg/kg on day five). The treatment groups received oral L-carvone at 25, 50 or 100 mg/kg for five days before LPS. Kidneys and blood samples were taken twenty-24 h following LPS injection for assessment. Results: L-carvone substantially reduced serum concentrations of kidney injury molecule-(KIM)-1, blood urea nitrogen-(BUN), and creatinine, as well as improved renal pathological manifestations. Meanwhile, L-carvone also strikingly suppressed the inflammatory response as evidenced by significant decreases in the gene expressions of Toll-like receptor (TLR)-4, transcription factors like NF-κB, activator protein(AP)-1, and Interferon Regulatory Factor (IRF)-3 in renal tissue, resulting in attenuation of inflammatory elements, notably TNF-α and IL-1β. L-carvone also reduced the magnitude of the tubular injury score due to LPS. Conclusion: L-carvone abrogates LPS-induced AKI, blocking the TLR4-MYD88-dependent and TRIF-dependent signaling cascade, hence attenuating structural renal injuries and enhancing kidney function. L-carvone may have beneficial effects on LPS-induced AKI. © The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Nature B.V. 2025.

Background LPS-evoked endotoxemia triggers systemic inflammation and can cause multi-organ damage, with the kidneys being particularly vulnerable. L-carvone is a natural monoterpene with strong antimicrobial, cytoprotective, and immunomodulatory benefits. Objective This study was aimed at exploring the influence of L-carvone on LPS-aggravated sepsis-associated renal impairment in mice. Methods A total of 32 male albino-type mice were randomly divided into six groups: untreated control group, sepsis model group (LPS 10 mg/kg single dose), vehicle group (oral corn oil for 5 days before LPS injection), and three intervention groups orally pre-treated with low (25), moderate (50), or high (100) mg/kg doses of L-carvone for 5 continuous days before LPS challenge. Results L-carvone markedly decreased levels of KIM-1, BUN, and creatinine, and reversed renal histological aberrations. It downregulated TLR4, NF-κB, AP-1, IRF-3, and iNOS renal expression, while upregulating Nrf2 transcription in a dose-dependent manner, thus decreasing interleukin (IL)-1β and TNF-α concentrations. L-carvone further ameliorated pro-apoptotic Bax levels, increased anti-apoptotic Bcl-2, inhibited MDA production, and enhanced SOD activity. Conclusion L-carvone effectively mitigates sepsis-related renal impairment by counteracting inflammatory, oxidative, and apoptotic mechanisms, thus supporting its translational therapeutic promise. © 2026 The Authors.

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a common public health problem in ageing men worldwide. Diarylpropionitrile, a selective ERβ agonist, favorably regulates cell proliferation and inflammation, two major hallmarks of BPH pathology. This study aimed to explore the mitigative impact of diarylpropionitrile on testosterone-driven BPH in rats. 40 Sprague Dawley male rats aged 2.5–3 months were randomly divided into 4 groups (n = 10): a normal control group, a testosterone-induced BPH group, a finasteride-treated group, and a diarylpropionitrile-treated group. BPH was induced by daily subcutaneous testosterone injections for 4 weeks, with finasteride and diarylpropionitrile administered orally once daily for the same duration, one hour before each testosterone injection. After 4 weeks of treatment, macroscopic and microscopic features of prostatic hyperplasia and androgenic, proliferative, angiogenic, apoptotic, and inflammatory biomarkers in prostatic tissue homogenates were assessed. Testosterone administration significantly increased prostate weight, prostatic index, and hyperplasia scores, while treatment with either diarylpropionitrile or finasteride effectively ameliorated these testosterone-induced changes. Both treatments significantly lowered elevated prostatic DHT, 5αR2, β-catenin, and PCNA levels, demonstrating a strong anti-proliferative effect. They also attenuated the increased pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-6, IL-27, and PGE2 and growth factors TGF-β and VEGF. Furthermore, both agents inhibited testosterone-induced ERβ upregulation and increased expression of the anti-apoptotic protein BCL2. There were no substantial differences comparing finasteride and diarylpropionitrile in the majority of the tested parameters. Diarylpropionitrile alleviates testosterone-driven BPH in rats by modulating key pathways associated with cellular proliferation and inflammation. Diarylpropionitrile, as an ERβ agonist, represents a promising alternative for the BPH treatment through multi-targeted mechanisms. © The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer-Verlag GmbH Germany, part of Springer Nature 2026.

Background Benign prostatic hyperplasia is a common public health problem in aging men across the globe. Diarylpropionitrile, a selective estrogen receptor-beta agonist, favorably regulates cell proliferation and inflammation, two major hallmarks of benign prostatic hyperplasia pathology. Objective This study aimed to explore the mitigative impact of diarylpropionitrile on testosterone-induced benign prostatic hyperplasia in rats. Methods Forty male rats were randomly divided into four groups (n = 10): a normal control group, a benign prostatic hyperplasia group, a finasteride-treated group, and a diarylpropionitrile-treated group. After 4 weeks of treatment, macroscopic and microscopic features of prostatic hyperplasia and androgenic, proliferative, angiogenic, apoptotic, and inflammatory biomarkers were assessed. Results Testosterone administration significantly increased prostate weight, prostatic index, and hyperplasia scores. Both diarylpropionitrile and finasteride effectively ameliorated the benign prostatic hyperplasia lesions by reversing these changes. Both treatments significantly lowered elevated prostatic dihydrotestosterone, 5-αR2, β-catenin, and proliferating cell nuclear antigen levels, demonstrating a strong anti-proliferative effect. They also attenuated the increased pro-inflammatory cytokines interleukin-6, interleukin-27, and prostaglandin E2 and growth factors transforming growth factor beta and vascular endothelial growth factor. Furthermore, both agents inhibited testosterone-induced estrogen receptor-beta upregulation, counteracted peroxisome proliferator–activated receptor gamma tissue protein, and boosted the expression of the anti-apoptotic marker B-cell lymphoma 2. Conclusions Diarylpropionitrile alleviates testosterone-induced benign prostatic hyperplasia in rats by modulating key pathways associated with cellular proliferation and inflammation. Diarylpropionitrile, as an estrogen receptor-beta agonist, represents a promising alternative for the benign prostatic hyperplasia treatment through multi-targeted mechanisms. © 2026. Thieme. All rights reserved.

Diclofenac (DFC), a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), has long been associated with gastrointestinal damage secondary to oxidative stress, inflammation, and disordered mucosal defense mechanisms. Salvianolic acid B (Sal B), a polyphenol compound extracted from Salvia miltiorrhiza, exhibits robust antioxidative, tissue regenerative, and anti-inflammatory activities. The present work was planned to explore the antiulcerogenic impact of Sal B against DFC-driven gastric ulceration in rats. Thirty-two male Wistar rats were randomly classified into four categories (n = 8 per group): Group 1 (Control): Received dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) for 14 days. Group 2 (DFC): Administered DMSO for 14 days, followed by oral DFC administration (100 mg/kg). Group 3 (Sal B): Received Sal B for 14 days before DFC exposure. Group 4 (EMP): Received esomeprazole (EMP) for 14 days prior to DFC administration. Pretreatment with Sal B dramatically attenuated stomach ulcerative symptoms, as reflected by apparent decrements in HCl-promoting elements, namely α1ATP, gastric juice volume, pepsin amount, and ADMA, while strengthening stomach pH and digestive mucosal defense factors (PGE2 and COX-1). Sal B also mitigated oxidative damage as reflected by significant decrements in malondialdehyde (MDA) and lipid peroxidation (LPO) production together with strengthened activity of antioxidative elements, namely superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT). Moreover, Sal.B substantially downregulated inflammatory mediators like interleukin-6 (IL-6) and upregulated IL-10 and markedly boosted amounts of angiogenic markers like hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), and reversed DFC-exacerbated stomach histopathological damage. Sal B demonstrated strong gastroprotective actions towards DFC-evoked stomach ulcers via antioxidative, anti-inflammatory, and pro-angiogenic actions. © The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer-Verlag London Ltd., part of Springer Nature 2026.

Vasodilators have proven efficacy in hair growth induction. Amlodipine, a potent vasodilator with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic properties, may aid in promoting hair follicle proliferation. This study aimed to evaluate the hair growth–promoting effects of topical amlodipine cream in a mouse alopecia model.40 male Swiss albino mice were randomized into 4 groups (n = 10): untreated control, vehicle (1:1 Vaseline and lanolin), 5% amlodipine cream, and 2% minoxidil solution. Treatments were applied for 21 days, and hair growth underwent visual, histological, and immunohistochemical assessment. Topical amlodipine accelerated anagen induction, prolonged the anagen phase, and upregulated VEGF expression compared with controls. The hair growth-promoting effects of amlodipine were comparable to those of minoxidil. This preclinical study demonstrates the therapeutic potential of topical amlodipine in promoting hair growth, supporting its possible future role in alopecia treatment pending further preclinical and clinical validation. © The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer-Verlag GmbH Germany, part of Springer Nature 2026.

Psoriasis is a life-long immune-mediated dermatosis with thickened, reddish, and flaky skin patches. Canagliflozin is a gliflozin antidiabetic with non-classical remarkable antioxidative, anti-inflammatory, anti-proliferative, and immune-modulating effects. The aim of this study is to examine the probable effects of topical canagliflozin on a mouse model of imiquimod-provoked psoriasis-like dermatitis. The study evaluated 20 Swiss white mice, sorted haphazardly into 4 groups of 5 animals each. Every mouse, with the exception of the control group, had imiquimod applied topically to their shaved backs for 7 days. The control group included healthy mice that were not given any treatment. Mice in the other three groups underwent topical treatment with vehicle (induction group), 0.05% clobetasol propionate ointment (clobetasol group), or 4% canagliflozin emulgel (canagliflozin 4% group) on exactly the same day as imiquimod cream was administered. Topical canagliflozin markedly lowered the intensity of imiquimod-provoked psoriasis eruptions, featuring redness, glossy-white scales, and acanthosis, while also correcting histopathological aberrations. Canagliflozin administration to imiquimod-exposed animals resulted in significantly decreased cutaneous concentrations of inflammatory mediators such as IL-8, IL-17, IL-23, and TNF-α, with raised levels of IL-10. Canagliflozin further lowered proliferative factors involving Ki-67 and PCNA, diminished oxidative indicators such as MDA and MPO, and augmented the activity of antioxidant markers, notably SOD and CAT. Canagliflozin might alleviate the imiquimod-induced animal model of psoriasis, probably thanks to its profound anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antiangiogenic, and antiproliferative activities. © The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer-Verlag GmbH Germany, part of Springer Nature 2024.

Psoriasis is a chronic immune-related dermatosis characterized by inflamed, thickened, brownish-red, peeling skin patches. Vildagliptin is an anti-diabetic drug with novel anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidative, and anti-proliferative activities. This study aimed to assess the anti-psoriatic activity of topical vildagliptin. 40 Swiss albino mice were sorted into five groups, each with 8 animals. The control group obtained no treatment. The induction group obtained imiquimod cream (5%) at a dose of 62.5 mg per day. The vehicle group obtained imiquimod (as did the induction group), accompanied by topical vehicle application. The clobetasol group obtained imiquimod cream (as did the induction group), and two hours later, clobetasol ointment (0.05%) was administered. The vildagliptin group obtained imiquimod (as in the induction group), followed by topical vildagliptin ointment (3%), two hours after induction. The experiment lasts for 8 consecutive days. Evaluations were conducted on the results of biochemical indicators, histological assessments, and clinical observations. Vildagliptin administered topically effectively corrected psoriatic histological irregularities, improved the psoriasis-like skin lesions such as erythema, flacking, and acanthosis, and attenuated the imiquimod-provoked elevations of PASI and Baker’s score. Further, overexpression of inflammatory markers (TNF-α, IL-17 A, IL-23, and IL-22), angiogenic markers (VEGF), oxidative-stress components (MDA and SOD), and proliferative factors (Ki-67) were dramatically mitigated by vildagliptin treatment. Topical vildagliptin has profound anti-psoriatic effects. © The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Nature B.V. 2025.

Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin disorder that is triggered by immune-mediated, genetic, and environmental factors. Moxifloxacin is a fluoroquinolone antibiotic with extended non-expected anti-inflammatory and immune-modulating effects. This study aims to investigate the possible influence of two different concentrations of moxifloxacin emulgel on psoriasis induced via imiquimod in mice. Dividing 48 mice into six groups (8 mice for each group), all groups gated imiquimod to induce psoriasis (except group I) for 7 days. The induction group (Group II) received imiquimod cream for 7 days. The vehicle group obtained emulgel base for 7 days. The rest of the groups got calcipotriol 0.005% ointment, moxifloxacin 3% emulgel, and moxifloxacin 5% emulgel, respectively, once daily for a further 7 days after the induction period. Topical moxifloxacin had important anti-psoriatic activity by diminishing the Psoriasis Area Severity Index (PASI) scores and improving histological alterations during imiquimod application. Moreover, moxifloxacin significantly lowered the levels of inflammatory biomarkers like TGF-β, TNF-α, IL-17, IL-1β, IL-23, and VEFG while increasing levels of anti-inflammatory biomarkers IL-10 and IL-37. Moxifloxacin also suppressed oxidative indicators such as MDA and elevated antioxidant enzyme levels, such as catalase. Moxifloxacin has substantial anti-psoriatic action against imiquimod-induced psoriasis through its anti-proliferative and anti-inflammatory effects. Furthermore, moxifloxacin has a restorative effect on the histopathological alterations of mice’s skin induced by imiquimod. © The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer-Verlag GmbH Germany, part of Springer Nature 2025.

Burn injury elicits an inflammatory response, metabolic abnormalities, and distributional shock leading to diverse organ dysfunctions with remarkable morbidity and mortality. Sluggish wound healing, infections, and hypertrophic scars still struggle in burn treatment. Lycoperdon lividum, a puffball mushroom enriched in polyphenols, has outstanding antioxidative and anti-inflammatory properties. This study aimed to assess the benefits of L. lividum on second-degree burn lesions in a rat model at 100°C. Seventy-five male rats were haphazardly separated into five groups of 15 rats each: Control (without any skin burn induction/treatment), skin burn (skin burn induction/non-treated), β-sitosterol (treated with topical β-sitosterol 0.25%), Vehicle (treated with Vaseline), and L. lividum (treated with topical L. lividum watery extract 10%). Rats were euthanized on Days 5, 10, and 20 of the experiment. Lycoperdon lividum extract was analyzed using HPLC techniques. Skin samples were collected for microscopical and histopathological examinations. Biomarkers involving IL-6, IL-10, TGF-β1, TNF-α, and VEGF were analyzed in skin homogenates. The chromatogram revealed distinct peaks for bioactive compounds of L. lividum, including kaempferol, rutin, ferulic acid, caffeic acid, chlorogenic acid, quercetin, and gallic acid. Lycoperdon lividum greatly alleviated the burn lesions via improving wound contraction, correcting inflammation, and granulation aberrations while boosting fibrosis. The outcomes were validated by histopathological analyses. Further, L. lividum markedly improved the healing of burn wounds by regulating inflammatory cytokines (IL-6 and TNF-α), anti-inflammatory cytokines (IL-10 and TGF-β1), and angiogenic cytokines (VEGF) in skin tissues. Lycoperdon lividum has potential in healing burn wounds thanks to its outstanding antioxidant and anti-inflammatory actions. © 2025 Wiley Periodicals LLC.

Diabetic nephropathy (DN) represents the primary cause of chronic kidney disease (CKD) worldwide. Orientin is a natural bioactive flavonoid with profound immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidative effects. This study aimed to investigate the nephroprotective effect of orientin on rat prototypes of high-fat diet (HFD) and streptozotocin (STZ)-induced DN. 75 male rats were divided into 5 groups of 15 rats each. Rats were fed a HFD for 4 weeks, injected with a single dose of STZ 30 mg/kg, and continued on HFD for 15 weeks. Orientin was administered daily at 40 mg/kg for 15 weeks. The diabetic group reported substantially greater fasting blood glucose, HbA1c, and renal function measures than normal controls, as well as notable kidney histological abnormalities such as interstitial inflammation, glomerular shrinkage, and tubular necrosis. Additionally, the diabetic group showed dramatically greater amounts of IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α, TGF-β1, MDA, and a much lower level of GSH than the control group. However, orientin had no effect on the glycaemic parameters, but it dramatically reduced blood creatinine levels, prevented the development of histopathological irregularities, and minimized the renal concentrations of inflammatory and oxidative markers. Orientin may be a promising natural medication for improving diabetic nephropathy thanks to its robust anti-inflammatory and anti-proliferative properties. © The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer-Verlag GmbH Germany, part of Springer Nature 2025.

Methotrexate (MTX) is an antimetabolite drug utilized for managing a variety of cancers and autoinflammatory conditions. MTX may trigger detrimental effects in mout, h tissues, including salivary gland impairment. Bosentan (BOS), a drug that blocks endothelin receptors, has strengthened antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic properties. The study aimed to estimate the protective effect of BOS on MTX-exacerbated salivary changes in Wistar Albino rats. Thirty male rats were arbitrarily sorted into three groups of ten animals each. The control group received a normal saline for 18 days. The MTX (induction) group received MTX (25 mg/kg) intraperitoneally on the 7th day of the experiment once daily for 6 consecutive days. The MTX + BOS group received BOS (50 mg/kg) orally once a day for 18 days: 6 days before induction, 6 days 2-h after induction, and 6 days post-induction. Animals were euthanized on day 19, and salivary gland tissues were dissected for biochemical, histopathological, and immunohistochemical analyses. BOS dramatically improved MTX-aggravated biochemical and histopathological abnormalities, as evidenced by diminished Bax, caspase 3, TNF-α, IL-1β, MDA, and MPO levels, increased SOD, GSH, and GPX levels, and reduced degenerative changes in the granular convolute tubule, mucous acini, and striate duct. BOS further substantially upregulated MTX-induced decline of the Ki-67 and Bcl-2, as indicated by immunohistochemistry scoring methods. The anti-oxidative, ant-inflammatory, and antiapoptotic properties of BOS are a promising strategy for ameliorating the toxic effect of MTX on submandibular glandular tissues. © 2025 The Author(s).

Eczematous or atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic autoinflammatory skin disorder distinguished by severe itching, scratching, and erosion. Bosentan is an endothelin receptor antagonist with improved immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory actions. This study aimed to assess the efficiency of topical bosentan in alleviating a 2, 4-dinitrochlorobenzene (DNCB)-induced mouse model of AD. 50 Swiss albino mice were haphazardly grouped into 5 teams of 10 each. The first week of the experiment involved DNCB sensitization on back skin mice, preceding a four-week DNCB challenge to induce AD-like skin inflammation. The control group gets no treatment. The induction group administered DNCB only. Starting two hours after the second sensitization, the vehicle group received topical vehicle solution, the bosentan group received 5% bosentan ointment, and the tacrolimus group received 0.1% tacrolimus ointment once daily for a period of four weeks. Topical bosentan markedly mitigated DNCB-aggravated AD-like skin lesions, as displayed by decreased total dermatitis scores and lowering the upregulated counts of total leukocytes, neutrophils, lymphocytes, monocytes, and eosinophils. Additionally, bosentan dramatically alleviated interleukin (IL)-4 and IL-13 immunohistochemistry scores, as well as IL-1β, IL-6, IL-17, TNFα, and IFN-γ epidermal levels. In conclusion, Bosentan treatment also significantly diminished levels of immunoglobulin E (IgE) and oxidative biomarker malondialdehyde (MDA) and histopathology scores, notably epidermal thickness and inflammation. Bosentan mitigates the severity of DNCB-induced AD-like skin inflammation, possibly owing to its potent anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties. © The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer-Verlag GmbH Germany, part of Springer Nature 2025.

Sepsis is the primary cause of mortality after infection and is considered a global health issue. This study aimed to investigate whether quercetin may have any potential nephroprotective effects during renal injury induced by sepsis. 40 male albino Swiss mice were divided into 4 groups of 10 mice each. Normal control groups include mice that clearly exhibit good health. The CLP group included mice that underwent cecal ligation and puncture (CLP) surgery but received no treatment. Dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) group administered DMSO as a vehicle. The quercetin group was administered quercetin 10 mg/kg/day intraperitoneally for 5 consecutive days. A significant (p < 0.05) reduction in the renal levels of Neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL) was observed in the quercetin group compared to the CLP group. A significant (p < 0.05) reduction in the serum levels of inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β) was observed in the quercetin group compared to the CLP group. Additionally, the quercetin group exhibited a significant (p < 0.05) increase in renal SOD activity and a reduction in MDA levels in comparison to the CLP group. Histologically, all mice in the CLP group exhibited a significant (p < 0.05) renal tissue injury, whereas the quercetin group exhibited a significant (p < 0.05) reduction in renal tissue injury. The quercetin exhibited an anti-inflammatory effect by reducing serum levels of inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6), as well as an antioxidant effect by decreasing renal levels of MDA and increasing the renal activity of SOD. © The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Nature B.V. 2025.

Defective angiogenesis is a characteristic of many diseases, notably cancer and immune-mediated conditions. Numerous shortcomings in anti-angiogenic therapies, including undesirable effects, drug resistance, and cancer recurrence, encouraged the development of innovative medicines with improved anti-angiogenic efficacy. Indole analogues are thought to interact with the mitotic spindle, preventing malignant human cells from multiplying and invading. N'-(1-Benzyl-2-oxoindolin-3-ylidene)-5-bromo-1H-indole-2-carbohydrazide (N-5-BIC) represents one of these chemicals exhibiting remarkable anti-angiogenesis and anti-proliferation features. The study aimed to investigate the antiangiogenic, antioxidant, and antiproliferative activities of a carbohydrazide indole derivative, N-5-BIC. The ex vivo rat aorta ring (RAR), DPPH, and chick chorioallantois membrane (CAM) assays were employed to assess the N-5-BIC antiangiogenic and antioxidant activities. The MTT assay investigated the anti-proliferative activity in the human umbilical vascular endothelial cells (HUVEC) cell line. The VEGF gene expression level in the colon cancer (HCT116) cell line was evaluated using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). N-5-BIC demonstrated a substantial and dose-dependent inhibition of blood vessel growth, resulting in an 87.37% reduction at a concentration of 100 μg/ml compared to the negative control (DMSO 1%) in the RAR assay. Additionally, N-5-BIC exhibited a significant decrease in DPPH free radicals in a concentration-dependent manner, with an IC50 value of 129.6 µg/ml. The in vivo CAM assay confirmed a significant regression in blood vessels compared to the negative control. Furthermore, N-5-BIC demonstrated low to non-toxic effects on the HUVEC cell line, with an IC50 value of 1681 μg/ml. The RT-PCR study revealed a significant reduction in VEGF gene expression at doses of 200 and 400 µg/ml as compared to control cells. N-5-BIC has resilient anti-angiogenic properties, which may be attributed to its extensive anti-proliferative and free radical neutralizing properties. © The Society for In Vitro Biology 2025.

Angiogenesis is an intricate pathway that involves the formation of new blood capillaries from old, functioning ones. Improper angiogenesis is a feature of numerous maladies, including malignancy and autoimmune disorders. Indole-related derivatives are believed to interfere with the mitotic spindle, inhibiting the multiplication, and invasion of cancerous human cells. 5-bromo-2-(5-(4-nitrophenyl)-4H-1,2,4-triazol-3-yl)-1H-indole (2-NTI) is one of such compounds with outstanding anti-angiogenic, and anti-proliferative properties. To evaluate 2-NTI’s antiangiogenic and anti-oxidant activities and potential mechanisms of action in comparison with the standard agent, suramin. The rat aortic ring (RAR) and Chick chorioallantois membrane (CAM) assays were employed to determine antiangiogenic efficacy and dose response, while the DPPH assay estimated free radical scavenging activity. Besides, an MTT test was performed to evaluate antiproliferative activity in HUVECs; however, RT-PCR assessed the gene expression level of VEGF in HCT116 cells. 2-NTI displayed a significant and dose-dependent suppression of angiogenesis (83.04%) at 100 μg/mL concentration versus the negative controls in the RAR assay. 2-NTI also showed no toxicity in the HUVEC cell line, with an IC50 of 876.6 μg/mL, but it significantly reduced the formation of free radicals (IC50 of 135.2 µg/mL) and VEGF gene expression (at doses of 200 and 400 µg/mL) versus the negative controls and suramin. In CAM model, 2-NTI generated considerable blood vessel regression as compared to the negative control. 2-NTI possesses potent anti-angiogenic actions, which might be explained by its profound anti-proliferative and free radical detoxifying activities. © The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Nature B.V. 2025.

Management of plane warts is difficult; techniques like cryotherapy and cauterization are linked with a significant number of recurrences, risk of scarring, pain, and costs. To evaluate the effectiveness of TCA 30% solution in comparison with tretinoin 0.05% cream and5-flurouracil (5-FU) 5% cream in treatment of plane wart. A total of 100 patients were haphazardly divided into three groups according to the treatment: 34 patients treated with TCA 30%, 34 patients treated with tretinoin 0.05%, and 32 patients treated with 5-FU 5%. The number of lesions was calculated in all patients before treatment initiation. The efficiency of drugs was evaluated at 6 and 12 weeks after treatment during which the number of the warts in each patient and any side effects associated with the study concoction were recorded. According to the reduction in number of warts, response was categorized in to complete, partial and no response. After 6 weeks’ treatment with TCA, Tretinoin and 5-FU, the lesion number reduced to 24%, 70.1% and 68.11% respectively with significant differences between TCA and other two groups. Similarly, after 12 weeks, the lesion number reduced to 14%, 51.67% and 26.86%, respectively with significant differences between TCA and other 2 groups. Additionally, hyper/hypopigmentation was more frequent in TCA treated group than tretinoin and 5-FU groups. Each of TCA, tretinoin and 5-FU are effective in treatment of plane wart, however; TCA seems to be more effective but associated with more pigmentary problems. © The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer-Verlag GmbH Germany, part of Springer Nature 2025.

Acetaminophen (APAP) is a popularly utilized nonprescription antipyretic and analgesic medication. Overuse of APAP could result in serious liver damage, threatening human health and escalating fatality rates. Catechin is a polyphenolic flavonoid with robust antioxidative and anti-inflammatory capacities. This experiment was intended to assess the possible protective effect of catechin versus acetaminophen-exacerbated liver injury in a rat model. Twenty-four rats were allocated into four groups with six rats each. The control group obtained normal-saline orally for 7 days. The acetaminophen group was given a single dosage of APAP (2 gm/kg) orally on the 7th day. The catechin + APAP group got catechin (50 mg/kg intraperitoneally) once a day for 7 days, followed by an APAP dosage on the 7th day. Catechin effectively mitigated the degree of APAP-evoked liver injury by downregulating acetaminophen-aggravated elevation of hepatic biochemical indicators such as ALT, AST, and TSB, as well as rectifying histological abnormalities. Additionally, catechin administration to APAP-exposed rats profoundly lowered the contents of oxidative factors like malondialdehyde (MDA) while strengthening the activity of antioxidative molecules, particularly GSH and SOD, in liver tissues. Catechin also dramatically minimized hepatic tissue amounts of pro-inflammatory substances, including IL-8, IL-17, and TNF-α. In conclusion, catechin could protect against acetaminophen-induced liver damage, most likely due to its strong anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidative, and antiangiogenic abilities. © The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer-Verlag London Ltd., part of Springer Nature 2025.

Ulcerative colitis is a Ulcerative colitis is a chronic inflammatory condition characterized by mucosal damage, oxidative stress, and elevated inflammatory mediators, necessitating innovative strategies. While sulfasalazine remains a standard treatment, alternative agents with dual antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects are of growing interest. The goal of this study is to determine the ameliorative impact of gemifloxacin in comparison to sulfasalazine on inflammatory, oxidative, and histopathological alterations in a rat model of experimentally evoked ulcerative colitis. 40 Albino-Wistar rats were randomly divided into four groups of ten animals. All groups except Group I obtained a single intra-rectal dose of 4% acetic acid (vol/vol). Alternatively, Group I (Sham group) comprised healthy untreated rats who weren’t getting any sort of therapy. Group II (control group) had undergone acetic acid-evoked colitis for one week and provided no medications. The rats in groups III (sulfasalazine) and IV (gemifloxacin) were administered 100 mg/kg of sulfasalazine and 50 mg/kg of gemifloxacin orally on a weekly basis, respectively. The histopathological scores of the colonic tissue, together with the following variables. Treatment with both gemifloxacin and sulfasalazine drastically lowered oxidative biomarkers, specifically malondialdehyde (MDA) and myeloperoxidase (MPO), compared to the colitis control group (p < 0.05). Moreover, both drugs significantly mitigated levels inflammatory biomarkers such as tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), and nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) while attenuating levels of adhesive molecules like intercellular adhesive molecule (ICAM-1) and E-selectin compared to the colitis control group (p < 0.05). Additionally, they markedly improved the histopathological scores in acetic acid-aggravated-colonic histopathological scores. Gemifloxacin demonstrated remarkable anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and tissue-protective impacts in a rat prototype of ulcerative colitis with therapeutic outcomes comparable to those of sulfasalazine. These findings support its promise as an adjuvant medication in controlling and managing inflammatory bowel diseases. © The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Nature B.V. 2025.

Psoriasis is defined as a series of events. It starts as dermatitis and eventually advances to more extensive inflammation and elevated oxidative stress. The objective of the study is to investigate the possible anti-psoriatic effect of topical cinnarizine on imiquimod-induced psoriasis in mice based on observational, histopathological, and biochemical outcomes. This study included 32 Swiss albino mice who divided into 4 groups (8 for each group) as the following: Group I (control group) was neither induced nor treated and the other three groups were induced for psoriasis by using imiquimod (IMQ) once a day for 6 days and two of these groups subjected to different interventions for eight consecutive days, including topical clobetasol and cinnarizine ointment. All studied groups subjected to Baker and Psoriasis Area Severity Index (PASI) scores assessment in addition to the measurement of interleukin (IL)-17, Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha (TNF-α), malondialdehyde (MDA), and Ki-67 levels. The result of the study showed that topical cinnarizine significantly reduced the inflammatory signs of the psoriatic lesions, and these findings were supported by the histopathological examination. Additionally, topical cinnarizine significantly decreased IL-17, as well as TNF-α levels. They also reported an important drop in oxidative elements like MDA, and proliferative elements like Ki-67 when compared with the non-treated IMQ-induced psoriatic mice group. It was concluded that topical cinnarizine (3%) ointment demonstrated significant anti-psoriatic activity when compared with induced non-treated group with an effect comparable to that of standard treatment used (clobetasol). © 2025 Marmara University Press.

Indomethacin (IND) belongs to nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) prescribed for the treatment of rheumatoid diseases and linked to the development of gastric ulcers in many people. Cranberry is a rich source of polyphenols and flavonoids, which have powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. The study aimed to evaluate the activity of cranberry aqueous extract on IND-induced gastric ulcers in albino rats. Twenty adult male rats were sequentially assigned to four groups of five each. The control group consumes distilled water (DW) orally for 15 days. The IND group received a single oral dosage (60 mg/kg) of IND. The omeprazole (OMP) group got 60 mg/kg of IND as a single oral dose and then 20 mg/kg/day of OMP for 15 days. The cranberry group was given a single dose of IND 60 mg/kg orally and 200 mg/kg/day of cranberry aqueous extract for 15 days. Rats were euthanized on day 16, and gastric tissues were removed for biochemical and histopathological evaluations. Cranberry extract considerably ameliorated the severity of IND-induced gastric ulcerations and fixed the histopathological alterations, including mucosal membrane necrosis, congestion, inflammatory cell penetration, and deteriorations of GIT. Furthermore, IND-exposed rats treated with cranberry extract exhibited dramatically lower serum levels of oxidative biomarkers like MDA and inflammatory biomarkers like TNF-α and IL-6, but higher levels of anti-oxidative biomarkers like SOD and GPx and anti-inflammatory biomarkers like IL-10. The bioactive flavonoids and polyphenols content of cranberry extract could account for its profound gastroprotective effects. The anti-oxidative and anti-inflammatory properties of cranberry extract could be a promising strategy for ameliorating the IND-aggravated gastrotoxicity. © The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Nature B.V. 2025.

Acne vulgaris (AV) is a persistent inflammatory skin disease that affects the pilosebaceous units. Oral azithromycin has shown significant effectiveness in treating AV, attributed to its robust anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of azithromycin in patients with moderate-to-severe AV, with a focus on its influence on sebum composition and specific biomarkers, including pyridoxine (B6), biotin (B7), cobalamin (B12) (measured by HPLC), and homocysteine (measured by ELISA). A case-control study was conducted at the dermatology department of Al-Imamain-Alkadhimain Medical City, Baghdad. The study included thirty patients aged 15–35 years with moderate-to-severe AV, and thirty healthy individuals of the same age and sex served as a control group. Patients received 500 mg of azithromycin on alternate days for 12 weeks. Laboratory and clinical parameters were assessed at baseline and compared to the control group, then re-evaluated after treatment. The findings indicated a significant decrease in serum levels of folic acid, B7, and B6 at both 6 and 12 weeks post-treatment (p < 0.05). Serum homocysteine levels increased slightly over time, but this change was not statistically significant (p > 0.05). No significant difference in serum B12 levels was observed at 6 weeks (p > 0.05); however, a significant increase was noted at 12 weeks (p < 0.05). Clinical score, skin moisture, and sebum squalene (Sebum-SQ) content improved significantly post-treatment (p < 0.05), while sebum cholesterol (Sebum-Chol.) levels showed significant change only at 12 weeks (p < 0.05). The finding supports the efficacy of azithromycin in managing inflammatory acne and modulating sebum composition and specific biomarkers. However, the relatively small sample size and absence of power analysis limit the generalizability of the results. Future studies with larger cohorts are recommended to validate these findings. © The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer-Verlag GmbH Germany, part of Springer Nature 2025.

Investigating effective nanomaterials for the detection of hydroxyurea anticancer drugs is essential for promoting human health and safeguarding environmental integrity. This research utilized first-principles estimations for examining the adhesion and electronic characteristics of hydroxyurea (HU) on both pristine and Si-decorated innovative two-dimensional boron nitride allotrope, known as Irida analogous (Ir-BNNS). Analyzing the adsorption energy revealed that the HU molecule has a significant interaction (Ead = −1.27 eV) with the Si@Ir-BNNS, whereas it has weak interaction P-Ir-BN. Moreover, the analysis of the electron density distributions was conducted to investigate the microcosmic interaction mechanism between HU and Ir-BNNS. The Si@Ir-BNNS was highly sensitive to HU due to the observable alterations in the electrical conductance and magnetism. At ambient temperature, the Si@Ir-BNNS had a recovery time of 5.96 ms towards HU molecules. The DFT estimations can be conducive to exploring the applications of Si@Ir-BNNS in effectively sensing HU. © 2025 Elsevier Inc.

Neuropathic pain, a complex and often devastating condition, poses significant challenges for its effective management. Despite promising research on various cannabis formulations and delivery methods for neuropathic pain, significant gaps remain in our knowledge. While inhaled cannabis shows analgesic effects and alternative delivery methods may improve bioavailability, oral formulations have yielded mixed results, often limited by small sample sizes and placebo effects. Therefore, further research is essential to optimize cannabis formulations, identify responder profiles to tailor treatments effectively, and, most critically, confirm the long-term safety and efficacy of cannabis-based therapies in managing NP. This review article aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of the therapeutic potential of cannabis-based medicines, with a particular focus on cannabinoids. This review, though not systematic, examines 11 clinical studies, specifically Randomised Clinical Trials) published from 2014 to 2024, highlighting the efficacy of numerous cannabis formulations, in alleviating neuropathic pain. Key findings show that cannabinoids can reduce pain perception, improve patient quality of life, and mitigate other symptoms associated with neuropathic pain. The synergistic effects of tetrahydrocannabinol and cannabidiol are discussed, emphasizing their ability to enhance analgesic effects, while potentially reducing the psychoactive side effects of tetrahydrocannabinol. This review emphasizes the importance of the personalized approach to improve therapeutic outcomes. Limitations of the existing research focusing on cannabis for neuropathic pain are limited by heterogeneity, lack of standardization, small sample sizes, and reliance on subjective outcomes, impacting the reliability and generalizability of findings. However, this exhaustive review aims to inform clinicians and researchers about the evolving role of cannabis in contemporary pain management strategies, illustrating the diverse pharmacological profiles of cannabinoids and their potential as adjunct therapies for neuropathic pain management. © The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer-Verlag GmbH Germany, part of Springer Nature 2025.

Introduction and aim. Hyperlipidemia is a pathogenic disease associated with significant cardiovascular complications. Rhus coriaria, traditionally recognized as sumac, is abundant in numerous phenolic constituents that enhance its antioxidant, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory characteristics. The aim was to investigate the phytochemical and pharmacological attributes of phenolic constituents of R. coriaria. Material and methods. 32 male albino mice were assigned at random into 4 groups (n=8). Group 1 (control), group 2 (induced), group 3 (atorvastatin) and group 4 (phenolic). All groups received a diet that was rich in fat for a duration of 28 days, except the control group, which instead consumed a standard diet. Group 2 received no treatment, while group 3 and group 4 received atorvastatin 10 mg/kg and phenolic fractions of R. coriaria 500 mg/kg, respectively, for a further 28 days. Lipid profiles, oxidative indicators, biochemical parameters, and liver histopathological examination were estimated. Results. Phenolic fractions substantially improved total cholesterol (167.5±2.4 vs. 280.4±17.6 mg/dL), triglycerides (181.1±12.5 vs. 238.6±11.05 mg/dL), low-density lipoprotein (109.0±1.6 vs. 209.2±16.8 mg/dL), and very low-density lipoprotein (36.2±2.5 vs. 47.7±2.21), while raising high-density lipoprotein levels (42.3±1.8 vs. 23.5±2.3 mg/dL) as opposed to the induced group (p<0.05). Furthermore, the phenolic constituents significantly reduced liver enzyme activities like alanine transaminase (27.4±1.8 vs. 45.2±2.8 U/L), aspartate aminotransferase (31.7±2.1 vs. 44.9±2.0 U/L), and alkaline phosphatase (28.0±2.1 vs. 50.9±1.9 U/L), and decreased total blood bilirubin (0.6±0.08 vs. 1.7±0.1 mg/dL) and albumin (4.7±0.7 vs. 6.6±0.3 g/dL) when compared to the induced nontreated group (p<0.05). Phenolic treatment also alleviated tissue malondialdehyde (221.09±3.2 vs. 475.98±44.02 nmol/mL) and increased reduced glutathione (35.48±1.86 vs. 11.65±0.78 μg/mL) as compared to the group without induced non-treated group (p<0.05) and restored liver histopathological changes. Conclusion. Phenolic compounds have the potential to treat hyperlipidemia due to their anti-oxidative and anti-inflammatory properties. © 2025 Rzeszow University Press. All rights reserved.

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a lifelong inflammatory dermatosis associated with intense itching, scratching, and erythematous dry skin. Conyza canadensis is a medicinal herb enriched in polyphenols and flavonoids and has profound anti-inflammatory and antioxidant actions. To evaluate the anti-eczematous effect of topical flavonoid fraction in a mouse model of 1-chloro-2,4-dinitrobenzene (CDNB)-induced AD. Fifty Swiss albino-type mice were randomly divided into 5 groups of 10 each: control, induction, vehicle, tacrolimus, and flavonoid. The ethanolic extract of Conyza canadensis was evaluated by HPLC. Skin specimens were taken for histopathology, immunohistochemistry, and tissue homogenate analyses. Flavonoids from Conyza canadensis effectively lowered CDNB-exacerbated eczematous manifestations, as seen by diminished general dermatitis scores and scratching behaviors, along with a drop in overall leukocyte, neutrophil, and eosinophil percentages. Further, topical flavonoids profoundly hampered immunohistochemistry grades for IL-4 and IL-13, as well as amounts of IgE, MDA, IL-33, IL-17, IL-1β, and TNF-α in the skin. Isolated flavonoids also suppressed histologic scores, including cutaneous thickening/acanthosis and inflammatory cell penetration. Flavonoids of Conyza canadensis alleviates CDNB-evoked AD-like skin lesions thanks to its strengthening anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative activities. © The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer-Verlag London Ltd., part of Springer Nature 2025.

Food safety hazards pose a serious menace to public safety and human health. The progress of rapid, sensitive, and selective analysis technologies for food hazards is, hence, of paramount significance. As a class of artificial mimetic enzymes, nanozymes are extensively recognized for their lower cost, high tunability, and superior stability compared to natural bioenzymes; however, their lack of catalytic specificity limits their broader application. In address the issue, various potential approaches are examined, among which molecular imprinting attracting significant interest due to its remarkable ability to create specific binding cavities that serve as biomimetic receptors. Fascinatingly, introducing molecularly imprinted polymers (MIPs) onto nanozyme surfaces can significantly enhance the latter's catalytic activity. Accordingly, in recent years, MIPs featuring universal construction, good stability, and low cost are intensively incorporated with nanozymes for food safety detection. In this comprehensive review, we first provide an overview of the fundamental design of nanozyme@MIPs, followed by clarifying the potential effects of molecular imprinting on the catalytic efficacy of nanozymes, particularly concerning their activity and selectivity. Furthermore, their latest advancements in the application of nanozyme@MIPs for recognizing food hazards are discussed in depth, as these innovations enhance both reaction efficiency and selectivity, thereby facilitating the accurate quantification and identification of specific food contaminants. In addition, the development challenges and prospects in this field were also put forward. © 2025 Elsevier B.V.

This review provides a comprehensive overview of recent advances in the synthesis of 3-substituted indoles, highlighting various catalytic methodologies employed to improve the reaction efficiency, selectivity, and sustainability. This article discusses base-catalyzed methods, amino acid catalysts, Brønsted acid catalysts, and Lewis acids and their unique roles in enhancing the synthesis of these valuable compounds. Additionally, the application of ionic liquids, surfactants, and heteropolyacid-based catalysts was explored for their green chemistry benefits, demonstrating reduced environmental impact and improved reaction outcomes. Electrochemical approaches using simple electrodes and phase-transfer catalysts are also examined as eco-friendly and efficient alternatives. This review underscores the broad versatility and applicability of these catalytic systems in synthesizing 3-substituted indoles, which are important intermediates in pharmaceuticals, material sciences, and natural product synthesis while emphasizing the need for continued innovation toward more sustainable and efficient synthesis methods. © 2025 The Royal Society of Chemistry.

The chromones found in the dried roots of Saposhnikovia divaricata include cimifugin; in fact, Saposhnikovia divaricata is a main source of cimifugin. Vinpocetine is a synthetic version of vincamine derived from periwinkle; it is characterized by potent anti-inflammatory properties that allow it to reduce immune cell infiltration and suppress the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines. The objective of this study was to investigate the potential influence of a topically-applied combination of cimifugin and vinpocetine gels on a model of a psoriasis-like inflammatory skin reaction. To this end, we divided 48 albino BALB/c mice into six groups. All groups except for the negative control group received imiquimod topically (daily, for 7 days) for the induction of psoriasis-like skin lesions. A group received imiquimod (5%) only (positive control), while four other groups were also treated with a clobetasol (0.05%) cream, a cimifugin (3%) gel, a vinpocetine (3%) gel, or a combination of cimifugin (3%) and vinpocetine (3%) gels, once daily, for 7 days; the aforementioned treatments were first applied 7 days after the pharmacological induction of the lesions. Our findings revealed that the topically-applied combination of cimifugin-and vinpocetine-containing gels had an important anti-psoriatic effect, as seen by the diminishing of the skin levels of tumour necrosis factor-alpha, interleukin-17, and interleukin-23, thereby improving the imiquimod-induced histological changes in mice. We conclude that a topically-applied combination of cimifugin and vinpocetine can exert substantial anti-psoriatic activity. © 2025, ZITA Medical Management. All rights reserved.

Long-range order and disorder in small molecules significantly impact their physical and chemical properties, affecting their performance in photovoltaic devices. For the current study, a data-driven machine learning (ML) approach has been applied to explore the relationship between molecular structure and crystallinity in 480 indaceno-based small molecules. Three ML models, including support vector machines and random forest models, were trained to predict crystal propensity. A heatmap analysis revealed that 72.71% of the small molecules exhibit crystalline behavior, while the remaining 27.29% are non-crystalline. ML models achieved near-perfect accuracy (AUC : SVM-RBF = 0.999, RF = 0.998; MSE : RF = 0.00, SVM-RBF = 0.01). The predicted crystal propensity values showed high accuracy, with a mean squared error ranging from 0.0-0.64. Feature importance analysis using SHAP values identified Chi0v, kappa1, Chi1n, and NumRotatableBonds as the most contributing factors to crystal propensity. The synthetic accessibility score of the small molecules ranged from 0.02 to 0.12, providing insights for designing and optimizing indaceno-based small molecules with tailored crystallinity and photovoltaic properties. This study demonstrates the potential of ML approaches in guiding the development of high-performance small molecules for solar energy applications. © 2025 The Royal Society of Chemistry.

Introduction and aim. Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a life-long inflammatory dermatosis that features dry, erythematous skin. Ezetimibe is a lipid-lowering agent with enhanced anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative capacities. This work attempted to evaluate the anti-eczematous action of topically administered ezetimibe in a mouse prototype of 1-chloro-2,4-dinitrobenzene (DNCB)-evoked AD. To our knowledge, this is the first study to investigate the topical use of ezetimibe in an experimental model of AD. Material and methods. Thirty male Swiss albino mice were randomly allocated into five groups: healthy control, DNCB-induced model, vehicle, tacrolimus (0.1% ointment), and ezetimibe (2% ointment). Treatments were applied daily for 21 days. Clinical severity scores, total and differential leukocyte counts, histopathological changes, immunohistochemical expression of interleukin (IL)-4 and IL-13, and tissue levels of IgE, malondialdehyde (MDA), IL-17, IL-31, transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β), and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) were assessed. Results. DNCB increased dermatitis severity (EASI score 9.8±0.7 vs. 0.5±0.1 in controls, p<0.001), total leukocytes (14.2±1.6 ×103/mL vs. 3.9±0.6 ×103/mL p<0.001), and IgE (356±42 ng/mL vs. 92±15 ng/mL, p<0.001). Ezetimibe treatment significantly reduced EASI scores (2.1±0.4, p<0.01 vs. DNCB), leukocytes (5.9±0.3 ×103/mL p<0.01 vs. DNCB), IgE (128±18 ng/mL, p<0.01 vs. DNCB), and MDA (2.3±0.4 µmol/L vs. 5.9±0.7 µmol/L in DNCB, p<0.001). Pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-4, IL-13, IL-17, IL-31, TGF-β, and TNF-α were also markedly decreased (all p<0.05), with effects comparable to tacrolimus. Conclusion. Topical ezetimibe significantly alleviated DNCB-induced AD-like lesions by reducing histopathological changes, leukocyte infiltration, IgE, oxidative stress, and key inflammatory cytokines. These findings support ezetimibe as a potential adjunctive topical therapy for immune-mediated dermatoses, warranting future clinical evaluation. © 2025 Rzeszow University Press. All rights reserved.

Skin aging is a prominent manifestation of human aging, largely driven by oxidative stress and inflammation. D-limonene, a natural monoterpene, possesses strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that may help counteract these effects. This study aimed to explore the anti-aging and skin-rejuvenating potential of D-limonene in a mouse model of D-galactose-induced skin aging. 60 male mice were divided into 6 groups (n = 10). Group I served as the control. Group II received D-galactose (500 mg/kg) for 42 days to induce aging. Groups III and IV received vitamin C (100 mg/kg) either concurrently with D-galactose or after aging induction, respectively. Groups V and VI received D-limonene (100 mg/kg) either simultaneously with D-galactose or after induction. This design allowed comparison of protective versus therapeutic effects. Both concurrent and post-treatment with D-limonene substantially decreased pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6) and the oxidative stress marker MDA, while enhancing antioxidant components (SOD and GPx) and promoting the synthesis of collagen types I and III. Additionally, it improved skin thickness and histomorphological scores, restoring normal skin architecture. D-limonene exerts potent anti-aging and skin-rejuvenating effects by modulating oxidation and inflammatory markers, suggesting its potential as a preventive and curative anti-aging agent. © The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Nature B.V. 2025.

This study evaluated the inter-rater reliability and diagnostic validity of different sedation scales for COVID-19 patients in the ICU, focusing on optimizing patient management and outcomes amidst unique pathophysiological challenges. Seventy-three mechanically ventilated COVID-19 patients sedated with intravenous ketamine (10–20 µg/kg/min) were evaluated at Ali Ibn Abi Talib Hospital, Zahedan, Iran, in 2022 and 2023. The sample size was calculated to detect significant differences with a 95% confidence level. Data collection included demographic information and four sedation scales: Riker Sedation-Agitation Scale, Motor Activity Assessment Scale, Richmond Agitation-Sedation Scale, and Ramsay Sedation Scale. The primary outcome measure was inter-rater reliability, quantified by Cohen’s Kappa coefficients. Diagnostic validity (criterion validity) was examined by comparing scale scores across demographic and clinical variables. Statistical analyses included the Friedman test, Kappa statistics, and independent T-tests. The study involved patients with a mean age of 56.5 ± 14.1 years, ranging from 37 to 66 years, with 67.1% being male (n = 49) and 32.9% female (n = 24). The Friedman test showed no significant differences in sedation scores among raters or scales (p-values: Riker Sedation-Agitation Scale = 0.89, Motor Activity Assessment Scale = 0.67, Richmond Agitation-Sedation Scale = 0.76, Ramsay Sedation Scale = 0.81). Inter-rater reliability was high across all scales, with Kappa coefficients ranging from 0.71 to 0.89. Criterion validity analysis indicated no significant differences in sedation scores based on age, gender, ICU stay duration, or presence of comorbidities (all p > 0.05). These findings indicate that current sedation scales offer consistent evaluations for ICU COVID-19 patients, unaffected by rater bias or background factors. This reliability in clinical settings suggests their effective use for consistent patient assessments, potentially enhancing outcomes. © The Author(s) 2025.

A cytokine storm is a severe and potentially fatal condition resulting from an excessive immune response. Epicatechin and huperzine A have demonstrated anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, suggesting their potential utility in mitigating tissue damage and cytokine storm severity. This study aimed to compare the protective effects of huperzine A and epicatechin in a cytokine storm-like murine model. Sixty male Swiss albino mice were randomly allocated into six groups. Except for the control group, all animals received a single intraperitoneal injection of lipopolysaccharide (LPS; 5 mg/kg) in order to induce a cytokine storm. The induction group received LPS without further intervention. The remaining groups were pre-treated for three consecutive days prior to LPS administration as follows: vehicle group (1% dimethyl sulfoxide), methylprednisolone group (50 mg/ kg/day methylprednisolone), huperzine A group (0.2 mg/kg/day huperzine A), and epicatechin group (25 mg/kg/day epicatechin). The histological analysis of lung tissues and the quantification of serum cytokines – interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) – revealed that all pre-treated groups exhibited significant anti-inflammatory effects. Notably, epicatechin conferred a more pronounced protective effect than either methylprednisolone or huperzine A, as evidenced by reduced pulmonary histopathological alterations and lower serum cytokine concentrations. In conclusion, both huperzine A and epicatechin demonstrated protective efficacy against the LPS-induced cytokine storm, with epicatechin showing superior performance in attenuating systemic inflammation and lung injury. © 2025, ZITA Medical Management. All rights reserved.

Peptic ulcer disease (PUD) is a chronic condition of the digestive system that can lead to serious complications, increasing both morbidity and mortality and adversely affecting patients’ quality of life. This study aimed to assess the sociodemographic characteristics of the sample and to evaluate patients’ responses to known risk factors associated with PUD. A descriptive study was conducted in hospitals located in Al Hilla, Iraq. A purposive sample of 100 patients diagnosed with PUD was selected based on predefined inclusion criteria. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and were analysed using descriptive statistics. Frequencies and percentages were used in order to categorize responses, while the mean and standard deviation were calculated in order to assess central tendency and variability. The findings revealed that patients reported high levels of exposure to several risk factors, including psychological stress, consumption of spicy foods, and intake of caffeinated beverages such as tea and coffee. The highest mean score was observed for the use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, whereas the lowest scores were recorded for alcohol consumption, tobacco smoking, and rapid ingestion of food. In conclusion, the study highlights that dietary habits and lifestyle factors play a significant role in the development and exacerbation of PUD. © 2025, ZITA Medical Management. All rights reserved.

Methotrexate is an antimetabolite used in the treatment of various cancers and autoinflammatory disorders. However, it can adversely affect oral tissues, particularly impairing salivary gland function. The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of rutin may counteract these toxic effects. This study aimed at examining whether rutin confers protective effects on the salivary glands of rats exposed to methotrexate. Twenty-four male rats were randomly assigned to three groups. The control group received normal saline intraperitoneally for 10 days. On day six of the experiment, the methotrexate group was administered methotrexate intraperitoneally at a dose of 20 mg/kg. The methotrexate + rutin group also received rutin intraperitoneally at 50 mg/kg once daily for 10 days. On day 11, the animals were euthanized, and their salivary gland tissues were harvested for histological and biochemical analyses. Rutin markedly ameliorated the methotrexate-induced histopathological changes and biochemical alterations, as indicated by reduced levels of the tumour necrosis factor-α and malondialdehyde, alongside elevated levels of interleukin-10 and superoxide dismutase. These findings suggest that the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of rutin may offer a promising strategy for mitigating the methotrexate-associated toxicity in submandibular gland tissues. © 2025, ZITA Medical Management. All rights reserved.

Lithium-ion battery (LIB) thermal management is essential for ensuring operational performance and longevity. However, existing studies often focus on individual aspects of predictive modeling and optimization rather than integrating them into a unified approach. This study presents an innovative hybrid framework combining machine learning (ML), metaheuristic multi-objective optimization (MOO), and multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) to design a U-channel cold plate thermal management system (TMS) incorporating SiO₂ nanocoolants. Key TMS factors include channel number, channel radius, nanomaterial volume fraction, inlet temperature, and inlet velocity. The design objectives focus on minimizing three critical criteria for LIB TMS: maximum temperature (Tmax), temperature difference (ΔT), and pressure drop (ΔP). The methodology consists of four steps: data analysis, ML-based modeling, MOO, and MCDM. A multi-layer perceptron neural network (MLPNN) was optimized using genetic algorithm (GA), modified particle swarm optimization (MPSO), and chimp optimization algorithm (ChOA). Results indicate that for Tmax, MPSO achieves the lowest MSE, but GA performs best overall with the highest R (0.99782). For ΔT, GA and MPSO yield identical optimal results (R = 0.99942). For ΔP, GA and ChOA outperform others, achieving highest R (0.99972). NSGA-II demonstrated better Pareto solution diversity than MOCGO, with 50 % of optimal solutions having inlet velocity > 0.04 m/s, reducing Tmax from 310.45 K to 301.62 K. SiO₂ volume fractions between 3 and 4 % were most effective, balancing cooling and environmental impact. Additionally, over 97 % of optimal designs used only 6 or 7 channels, minimizing material usage while maintaining efficiency. This integrated framework enables sustainable, high-performance battery thermal management. © 2025 Elsevier Ltd

Cytokine storm is a life-threatening hyperinflammatory condition that can result from infectious diseases, including COVID-19, as well as from non-infectious autoimmune disorders. This study has investigated the potential of glutathione to mitigate a cytokine storm in mice, particularly when administered in combination with prednisolone; a synthetic glucocorticoid. Fifty male albino mice were randomly assigned into five groups. The negative control group received 1% dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) intraperitoneally (i.p.), while the positive control group received a single i.p. dose of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) at 5 mg/kg. The treatment groups received either glutathione (200 mg/kg i.p.), prednisolone (5 mg/kg i.p.), or a combination of both drugs, each administered as a single dose, 1 h prior to the LPS injection. After 24 h, blood samples were collected in order to assess the serum interleukin-6 (IL6) levels, and lung tissues were harvested for histopathological analysis. The results demonstrated that glutathione, prednisolone, and their combination can significantly reduce the LPS-induced elevation of IL-6 levels (p<0.05) and can ameliorate the LPS-induced histopathological damage in the lung tissues of mice. In conclusion, pre-treatment with glutathione, prednisolone, or their combination can effectively attenuate both the systemic IL-6 elevation and the pulmonary histopathological alterations associated with cytokine storm. Notably, the combined administration of glutathione and prednisolone exhibited synergistic protective effects, suggesting their potential utility as prophylactic agents against cytokine storm syndromes. © 2025, ZITA Medical Management. All rights reserved.

Background: Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a complex endocrine condition affecting women of reproductive age, influencing the endocrine, reproductive system, and metabolic processes.Objectives: To evaluate the anti-inflammatory and hormonal modulation effects of Ecklonia cava in PCOS patients. Methods: In this Randomized controlled study, 50 patients were diagnosed with polycystic ovary syndrome. Their age range (18-40 years) was equally allocated into two groups. The Control group received Diane-35 (2mg cyproterone acetate/35 Mg ethinyl estradiol) once daily for 3 cycles, and the interventional group received a combination of Diane- 35 plus 300 mg of Ecklonia cava once daily for 3 months. Parameters assessed before and after treatments course include: serum LH and FSH, oLH/FSH ratio, free testosterone, leptin HBA1c, IL-8, IL-10. Results: After 3 months, there was a significant reduction in the weight and waist circumference in the study group in comparison with the control group, with a p-value ≤0.05; significant improvement in LH, FSH, LH/FSH, Free testosterone and leptin hormone, in addition significant reduction in IL-8, and increase IL-10 level. Conclusions: The addition of Eckonia cava to the Diane-35 in the treatment of PCOS patients gives promising synergistic effects in the regulation of clinical and biochemical parameters in PCOS. Patient © 2025. Dr. Yashwant Research Labs Pvt. Ltd. All rights reserved.

The photostability of arsenic (As)-containing compounds is crucial for their environmental implications, yet predicting their stability remains a significant challenge. This study presents a comprehensive machine learning (ML)-based investigation of photostability and formation energies for our newly designed, large dataset of As-containing compounds, curated from the literature. Three ML models are employed to correlate photostability-related parameters, revealing intricate relationships between molecular structure and photostability. Furthermore, five machine learning models are developed to predict heat of formation and deformation energies, enabling the assessment of compound stability. Classification accuracy of 99 % is achieved, distinguishing between stable and unstable compounds. Unsupervised learning techniques, including t-SNE, k-means clustering, and dendrogram analysis, are applied to uncover hidden patterns and relationships within the dataset. This study provides novel insights into the photostability and stability of As-containing compounds, shedding light on the underlying mechanisms governing their behavior. The developed models and analytical framework offer a powerful tool for materials scientists and chemists to design and optimize photostable compounds, accelerating the development of efficient optoelectronic devices. © 2025 Elsevier B.V.

Background: Stomach ulceration is a common side effect of long-term NSAID use. Lithospermic acid B (LAB, sometimes identified as salvianolic acid B) is a phytochemical extracted from Salvia species and has been shown to possess strong antioxidative, anti-inflammatory, and tissue-regenerative capacities. Objective: This research intended to assess the therapeutic effect of LAB on diclofenac-driven gastric injury in male rats. Methods: Forty rats (n = 10/group) were arbitrarily assigned to four groups as follows: normal control (DMSO), induction/model (single diclofenac 100 mg per kg + DMSO), LAB (LAB 20 mg per kg daily), and esomeprazole (Eso; 20 mg per kg each day) for 2 weeks. Results: Diclofenac remarkably (p < 0.05) raised MDA and LPO levels 2.6 and 2.3 times, correspondingly (p < 0.05), while decreasing SOD and CAT activity by 48% and 42%, respectively. LAB treatment resulted in a substantial decrement of MDA and LPO production (45% and 39%), while restoring SOD and CAT activities back to the control (p < 0.05). It further reduced IL-6 (−52%) and increased IL-10 (+63%), in addition to the marked increase of VEGF (+57%) and HGF (+49%) versus diclofenac induction. A marked reduction of mucosal sloughing, edema, and vascular congestion was supported by histopathological outcomes. Conclusion: The pro-angiogenic, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant capacities of LAB suggest that it offers effective defense against gastric damage caused by NSAIDs. These results validate LAB as a potential natural treatment for NSAID-evoked stomach ulcers. Copyright Jaafar FR et al. This is an open access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (CC-BY 4.0) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original author and source are credited.

Introduction: Parkinson’s disease is the second most common complex progressive neurodegenerative disease after Alzheimer’s disease. Tremor, stiffness, and bradykinesia are common symptoms, additionally to postural instability as the condition advances. Valsartan is prescribed to treat hypertension and heart failure, and it mainly acts by antagonizing angiotensin II (Ang II) actions at the AT1 receptor. Aim of the Study: The present study aimed to investigate the neuroprotective effect of valsartan on experimentally induced Parkinson’s disease in mice. Materials and Methods: This study involved 40 male mice grouped into four groups (n=10). Group 1: The normal/healthy group obtained filtered water orally for 25 days. Group 2 got MPTP (30 mg/kg/day) intraperitoneally (IP) for 5 days, starting on day 15 to the close of day 19. Group 3 was given oral pramipexole (1 mg/kg/day) for 25 days, followed by an induction dose of MPTP (30 mg/kg/day) (IP) 60 minutes later. Group 4 received valsartan orally (30 mg/kg/day) for 25 days and then underwent induction with MPTP (30 mg/kg/day) (IP) 60 minutes after valsartan; on day 26, all animals were euthanized, and a biopsy of brain tissues was collected for examination. Results and Discussion: Valsartan substantially decreased levels of MDA, IL-1β, and α-synuclein compared to those in the induction group. Valsartan also substantially increased dopamine levels while producing a non-significant decrease in caspase-3 levels. Moreover, histopathological examination of valsartan exerted good improvement as opposed to induction. Conclusion: Valsartan produced neuroprotective effect through multiple mechanisms on MPTP exacerbated PD mouse model. © Asmaa A. Ahmed et al.

Background: Oxidative injury to lens epithelial cells (LECs) is directly associated with cataracts, a major contributor to blindness globally. Objective: This work aimed to examine the mitigative impacts of Curcuma longa extract on selenite-evoked cataract in rabbits. Methods: Twelve rabbits were divided into three groups: healthy controls, a sodium selenite-induced cataract group, and a treatment group receiving both sodium selenite and Curcuma longa extract eye drops. A single intravitreal injection of sodium selenite led to the inducement of a cataract in the right eye of rabbits. The main indicators were ophthalmoscope readings, scanning electron microscope images of the eye’s lenses, and intraocular pressure (IOP) measurements together with the amount of malondialdehyde (MDA) in the aqueous humor. Results: The mean of the lens opacity score and MDA level was significantly reduced by Curcuma longa extract eye drops as juxtaposed to the cataract-aggravated group (p < 0.01). The homogeneous structure of the lens is demonstrated in the scanning electron microscope image of the lens that was treated with Curcuma longa extract eye drops. Conclusion: The eye drops prepared from the acetone extract of Curcuma longa demonstrated remarkable preventive actions on sodium selenite-induced cataracts in the rabbit model. © The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Nature Switzerland AG 2025.

The blood-brain barrier (BBB) presents a major obstacle to effective drug delivery for neurological disorders. Recent advances in perfluorocarbon (PFC) nanotechnologies have shown promise in modulating BBB permeability for improved therapeutic outcomes. This review explores the dual role of PFC-based systems in both enhancing drug delivery and stabilizing the BBB under pathological conditions. Unlike previous reviews that mainly emphasize microbubble-assisted focused ultrasound for BBB opening, this work specifically highlights the unique contributions of PFC nanotechnologies, including their laser- and ultrasound-responsiveness, smaller nanoscale formulations enabling deeper penetration, and their emerging neuroprotective properties. The use of PFC nanoemulsions combined with focused ultrasound (FUS) has demonstrated efficient cellular uptake and targeted drug delivery to brain tumors, while laser-activated PFC nanodroplets and low-boiling-point PFC nanodroplets offer transient BBB disruption via phase transitions and acoustic cavitation. Moreover, PFC derivatives like perfluorooctyl bromide (PFOB) have shown protective effects in models of subarachnoid hemorrhage by reducing BBB permeability and mitigating neuronal apoptosis. Despite these promising findings, challenges remain in optimizing PFC formulations, evaluating long-term safety, and understanding their mechanistic effects on the BBB. Future research should focus on refining these systems through combination strategies and exploring their potential in the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases and cerebrovascular disorders. © 2025

Introduction and aim. Premature ovarian failure (POF) is a condition distinguished by a decline in ovarian follicles in women under 40 leading to a disruption in the normal menstrual cycle and fertility. Vitamin B-6 (pyridoxine) and vitamin B-12 (cyanocobalamin) play an important role in ovarian health. The aim was to investigate the effects of vitamins B-6 and B-12, for predicting POF via the association of these vitamins with other biochemical parameters. Material and methods. A total of 80 participants with age ≤ 40 years, 40 POF women, and 40 fertile control women were recruited in this study from November 2023 to March 2024. Serum levels of prolactin (PRO), thyroid hormones, estradiol (E-2), progesterone, follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), 17-alpha hydroxylase, and inhibin alpha (INH-α) were measured using the ELISA technique while vitamins B-6 and B-12 were measured by HPLC. Results. Serum levels of reproductive hormones (LH, E2, progesterone, and testosterone), vitamin B-6, B-12, T3, T4, 17-alpha hydroxylase, and INH-α were markedly reduced in POF patients, while levels of FSH, TSH, and PRO were significantly elevated compared to healthy controls. Conclusion. This study highlights the critical role of vitamins B-6 and B-12 in the pathophysiology of POF, suggesting their potential as biomarkers for diagnosis and prognosis. © 2025 Rzeszow University Press. All rights reserved.

A poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) inhibitor, Olaparib has shown notable clinical effectiveness in treating metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) with DNA damage repair gene mutations. Though initial reactions were encouraging, the emergence of resistance poses a major clinical problem that reduces the long-term therapeutic value for patients. This paper thoroughly investigates the molecular processes behind acquired and intrinsic resistance to Olaparib in prostate cancer (PCa). Among the several resistance routes discovered are restoration of homologous recombination (HR) repair capacity via secondary BRCA2 mutations, loss of 53BP1/REV7/Shieldin complex activity, and activation of alternative DNA repair pathways. Recent studies further imply that changes in cell cycle checkpoints and epigenetic changes could help to increase therapy resistance even more. Knowing these several resistance mechanisms helps one to create reasonable combination strategies and biomarker-driven initiatives to defeat Olaparib resistance. Among the new treatment options are combination therapies aimed at compensatory DNA repair mechanisms, cell cycle checkpoint inhibitors, epigenetic modulators, and methods tackling tumor microenvironment elements. Predictive biomarker discovery of resistance will help to guide individual treatment choice and sequential therapy optimization, hence changing clinical results for advanced PCa patients in the precision medicine age. © 2025 Elsevier Inc.

Tobacco use remains one of the most pressing global health challenges. Approximately 80% of smokers worldwide reside in low-and middle-income countries, where the burden of tobacco-related morbidity and mortality is disproportionately high. Cigarette smoking is notably prevalent among university students. This study aimed at investigating and evaluating the awareness and determinants of smoking status within a university student sample, and at examining the association between awareness levels and smoking-related determinants. A descriptive-analytical cross-sectional study was conducted involving 230 university students who smoke, recruited from Baghdad City. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire designed to assess participants’ awareness of smoking-related harms and the factors influencing their smoking behavior. The majority of the participants were male and aged between 18 and 23 years. Most reported smoking cigarettes and hookah, and demonstrated awareness of the harmful effects of smoking, including its role as a major cause of lung cancer, heart disease, and respiratory conditions. The lowest level of agreement was recorded for the statement linking smoking to road traffic accidents. Nearly half of the participants acknowledged that smoking negatively affects family income. Statistical analysis revealed a significant association between students’ awareness and the determinants of smoking status, as well as with their sociodemographic characteristics. © 2025, ZITA Medical Management. All rights reserved.

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) represents one of the most pressing challenges in contemporary public health. Neonates and children are among the most vulnerable populations, not only by being at heightened risk of developing AMR, but also for being among the ones most frequently being prescribed antibiotics, particularly for respiratory tract infections (RTIs). This study aimed at examining the relationship between antibiotic overuse and resistance in paediatric patients with recurrent RTIs. A descriptive cross-sectional design was employed from 10 December 2023 to 10 March 2024, targeting children in the Babil Province (Iraq) that were selected through a non-probability convenience sampling method. Findings revealed a high prevalence of antibiotic prescription errors: 62% of the cases involved inadequate course duration, 69% of the patients received duplicate therapy, and 61% were prescribed antibiotics with insufficient dosing frequency. A significant association was observed between these prescription errors and a history of recurrent RTIs. Such errors appear to contribute to the development of AMR, not only in children but potentially extending to adult populations. Given the potentially fatal consequences of antibiotic misuse, both paediatricians and parents must exercise rigorous caution when administering antibiotics to children. © 2025, ZITA Medical Management. All rights reserved.

Triage refers to the placement of patients in the appropriate setting at the appropriate time in order for them to receive the appropriate level of care, along with the allocation of resources tailored to their medical needs. A descriptive study was conducted in order to assess nurses’ knowledge of medical triage between October 15, 2023, and April 1, 2024. A non-probability convenience sample comprising 50 nurses working in the Emergency Unit of the Al Hillah Teaching Hospital was included. The study utilized a questionnaire developed through a comprehensive review of the relevant literature and modified as necessary. Its content validity was established through evaluation by a panel of five experts. Data were collected using a researcher-developed, self-administered questionnaire in Arabic, employing both interview and self-report formats. Data analysis was performed using the SPSS software, version 24. The general level of nurses’ knowledge regarding medical triage, as assessed in this study, was found to be fair to good. It is recommended to appoint qualified registered nurses so as to enhance the quality of care provided in medical triage settings. © 2025, ZITA Medical Management. All rights reserved.

This study aimed at evaluating the performance of school health providers at primary health centers in Al-Hilla City (Hillah) through the application of a quality assurance framework. A descriptive evaluation study was conducted from October 5, 2024 to March 25, 2025. A purposive sample of 63 individuals was selected using a non-probability sampling technique from 15 primary healthcare centers, drawn from two health sectors within the Al-Hilla City Center under the Babylon Health Directorate in Iraq. The sample comprised 20 members of the medical staff and 43 members of the nursing staff. A panel of thirteen experts participated in a pilot study in order to assess the reliability of the evaluation instrument through content validity and internal consistency metrics. The findings indicate a growing demand and a diminishing supply of workforce in primary health care. The quality assurance assessment of school health activities performed by medical and nursing staff revealed a fair overall performance. However, health education services provided to teaching staff and students were found to be suboptimal. © 2025, ZITA Medical Management. All rights reserved.

Background: Psoriasis is a longstanding autoimmune dermatosis with thickened, reddish-brown, and flaking skin lesions. Melatonin is an indolamine hormone exhibiting antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-proliferative actions. Rutin is a nutritional flavonoid possessing antioxidative, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory properties. Aim: To explore the potential anti-psoriatic activity of combined topical melatonin and rutin. Methods: 70 albino mice were divided into 7 groups of 10 each. The impacts of clinical observation, histopathological examination, and biomarker analysis were estimated. Results: Combined topical melatonin and rutin effectively diminished imiquimod-induced elevated PASI and Baker’s scores and corrected histopathological aberrations. Diminished inflammatory indicators like TNF-α and IL-17A, angiogenic elements like VEGF, oxidative elements like MDA, and proliferative elements like Ki-67 were also noted. Conclusion: Combined topical melatonin and rutin have profound anti-psoriatic effects. © Khorsheed SM et al.

Psoriasis is an uncontrolled, long-lasting inflammatory dermatosis distinguished by thickened, erythematous, and flaky skin lesions. Massive amounts of inflammatory cytokines are produced when immune system imbalances are driven by genetic and environmental triggers. Vinpocetine (VNP), a man-made analogue of the compound vincamine found in the dwarf periwinkle herb, has robust anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, and anti-oxidative effects; alleviates the epidermal penetration of immune cells, such as eosinophils and neutrophils; and abolishes the generation of pro-inflammatory molecules. Objective: This study was aimed at exploring the effects of long-term topical VNP, both alone and co-administered with clobetasol propionate, in an imiquimod-induced mouse model of psoriasiform dermatitis. Methods: The study protocol consisted of 48 Swiss albino mice, randomly divided into six groups of eight mice each. In group I, petroleum jelly was administered daily for 8 days. In group II, imiquimod was administered topically at 62.5 mg daily for 8 days. In groups III, VI, V, and VI, 0.05% clobetasol propionate, 1% VNP, 3% VNP, and 3% VNP plus 0.05% clobetasol were administered topically for an additional 8 days after the induction, thus resulting in a total trial length of 16 days. Results: Topical VNP at various doses alleviated the severity of imiquimod-induced psoriatic lesions—including erythema, silvery-white scaling, and thickening—and reversed the histopathological abnormalities. Moreover, imiquimod-exposed animals treated with VNP showed markedly diminished concentrations of inflammatory biomarkers, including tumour necrosis factor-α, interleukin (IL)-8, IL-17A, IL-23, IL-37, nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB), and transforming growth factor-β1. Conclusion: This research provides new evidence that VNP, alone and in combination with clobetasol, may serve as a potential adjuvant for long-term management of autoimmune and autoinflammatory skin diseases, particularly psoriasis, by attenuating psoriatic lesion severity, suppressing cytokine generation, and limiting NF-κB-mediated inflammation. © 2023 The Authors

Psoriasis is a chronic, inflammatory dermatosis characterized by thickened, reddened, and scaly skin lesions. Norfloxacin is a fluoroquinolone antibiotic with enhanced antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory bioactivities. The aim of this study was to figure out the possible impact of topical norfloxacin on an imiquimod-induced model of psoriasis in mice. Thirty albino-type mice were split into five distinct groups of six animals each. The control group included healthy mice that had not received any treatment. The induction group was given the vehicle 2 h after the topical imiquimod, once daily for 8 days. Two hours after receiving topical imiquimod, the treatment groups including calcipotriol, norfloxacin 2.5%, and norfloxacin 5% were given topical ointments containing calcipotriol 0.005%, norfloxacin 2.5%, and norfloxacin 5%, for 8 days. Topical norfloxacin ointment significantly reduced the severity of imiquimod-exacerbated psoriatic lesions including erythema, shiny-white scaling, and acanthosis and fixed histological abnormalities. Furthermore, imiquimod-subjected mice treated with a higher concentration of norfloxacin ointment exhibited dramatically lower skin levels of inflammation-related biomarkers like IFN-γ, TNF-α, IL-6, IL-17A, IL-23, and TGF-β but higher levels of IL-10. They also demonstrated a notable decrease in angiogenesis parameters such as VEGF and IL-8, a substantial reduction in oxidative indicators like MDA and MPO, and a considerable rise in antioxidant enzymes like SOD and CAT. This study offers novel evidence that norfloxacin may assist in controlling inflammatory dermatoses like psoriasis by minimizing the severity of psoriatic plaques, correcting histological alterations, and diminishing the production of inflammatory, oxidative, and angiogenetic parameters. © 2024 American Chemical Society.

Psoriasis is a lifelong immune-driven skin condition characterized by excessive epidermal overgrowth and inflammatory cell infiltration. Gemifloxacin is a fourth-generation fluoroquinolone with improved immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory properties that are believed to possess an attractive role in psoriasis via suppressing the production of cytokines, chemokines, and eosinophil and neutrophil chemotaxis. The aim of this research is to investigate the ameliorative effects of prolonged topical gemifloxacin (GMF) alone and combined with clobetasol propionate (CLO) on an imiquimod (IMQ)-induced mouse model of psoriasis. Forty-eight Swiss albino mice were divided into six groups of eight. All groups except the negative controls got 62.5 mg of IMQ 5% topically for 8 days. Mice in the control group (controls) got Vaseline instead. Following the induction in the IMQ 5% group, mice in treatment groups CLO 0.05, GMF 1%, GMF 3%, and CLO + GMF obtained clobetasol propionate 0.05%, GMF 1% and 3%, and a combination of both, respectively, for an additional 8 days, rendering the experiment 16 days long. Our results revealed that gemifloxacin alleviated erythematous, thickened, and scaly psoriatic lesions and inhibited the tissue level of inflammatory cytokines, including interleukin (IL)-8, IL-17A, IL-23, tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), and transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1). The anti-inflammatory effect also occurred by hindering nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) signaling and reversing histopathological problems. Gemifloxacin acts effectively in mitigating psoriasis-associated lesions and restricting NF-κB-mediated inflammation, recommending gemifloxacin as a promising adjuvant candidate for additional studies on the long-term treatment of autoimmune and autoinflammatory dermatoses like psoriasis. Graphical abstract: [Figure not available: see fulltext.]. © 2023, The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer-Verlag GmbH Germany, part of Springer Nature.

Psoriasis is a long-lasting, immune-related inflammatory skin disease that affects 2–3% of the global population. It is distinguished by erythematous, silvery, and scaly patches. Ramelteon is a type of melatonin agonist that is used to treat insomnia. It has enhanced non-classical immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory activities. The aim of the study is to assess the ameliorative effects of topical ramelteon on imiquimod (IMQ)-aggravated psoriasiform-like dermatosis in mice. The 32 albino mouse males were placed into six groups of eight animals, all of them. With the exception of the control group, all groups gained a once-a-day regimen of topical imiquimod 5% cream at a dose of 62.5 mg for eight uninterrupted days, while mice in the control group gained vaseline-based ointment alternately. Immediately after an 8-day induction period in the imiquimod group, mice in the clobetasol and ramelteon treatment groups obtained a twice-daily regimen of topical clobetasol propionate 0.05% ointment and 0.1% ointment, respectively, for a further 8 days. This extends the total duration of the experimental study to 16 continuous days. The findings of our study found that ramelteon significantly mitigated the concentrations of inflammatory cytokines in the skin tissue, including interleukin (IL)-6, IL-17A, IL-23, tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), as well as the scores associated with psoriatic lesions, including erythema, scaling, skin thickening, ear thickness, and overall cumulative PASI scores. Additionally, the anti-inflammatory impact of ramelteon was achieved by markedly increasing IL-10 levels in the skin tissue and correcting cutaneous histopathological alterations. Ramelteon ointment (0.1%) was comparable to that of clobetasol (0.05%) ointment in alleviating a mouse model of imiquimod-induced psoriasiform inflammation; this is probably due to its potential anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory activities. Therefore, ramelteon could be a good additive option for therapeutic management of immune-triggered inflammatory conditions such as psoriasis. Graphical abstract: (Figure presented.). © The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer-Verlag GmbH Germany, part of Springer Nature 2024.

Empagliflozin is a sodium-glucose cotransporter inhibitor (SGLT2) that drops blood glucose levels by inhibiting glucose reabsorption and encouraging glucose excretion. Other benefits of empagliflozin include cardiovascular protection, lowering uric acid levels, and reducing liver damage brought on by non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). to investigate the possible influence of two different concentrations of empagliflozin gel on psoriasis induced via imiquimod in mice. dividing 40 mice into five groups (8 mice for each group). All groups gated imiquimod to induce psoriasis (except group I) for seven days. The induction group (Group II) received imiquimod cream for seven days. The rest of the groups gated Clobetasol propionate cream 0.05%, empagliflozin 1% gel, and empagliflozin 3% gel, respectively, once daily for seven days after seven days of induction by imiquimod. The outcomes exhibited that topical empagliflozin had important anti-psoriatic activity by diminishing the Psoriasis Area Severity Index (PASI) score and improving histological alterations during imiquimod application; moreover, it elevated anti-inflammatory biomarker IL-37 and lowered inflammatory biomarkers TNF-α and IL-17. Empagliflozin has substan-tial anti-psoriatic action against imiquimod-induced psoriasis through its anti-prolif-erative and anti-inflammatory effects. Also, empagliflozin has a restorative effect on the histopathological alterations of mice's skin induced by imiquimod. © 2024, Brawijaya University. All rights reserved.