Scopus Research — Muna Salih Merza

The search for efficient and cost-effective electrocatalysts for the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) is critical for advancing renewable energy technologies. This study employs density functional theory (DFT) at the MN12-SX/GenECP/Def2svp/LanL2DZ computational method to investigate the electronic, structural, and catalytic properties of modified fullerene (C60) systems encapsulated with palladium (Pd) and doped with transition metal carbides: CrC, FeC, MnC, TiC, and VC. Frontier molecular orbital (FMO) analysis reveals significant changes in the HOMO-LUMO gap upon doping, indicating enhanced electronic conductivity essential for catalytic activity. The lowest energy gaps 0.081 eV for MnC–Pd@C60 and 0.096 eV for VC-Pd@C60 were observed thus showing their readiness in terms of electron transfer. HER activity was assessed through the calculation of Gibbs free energy changes (ΔGH) for hydrogen adsorption. The results highlight TiC–Pd@C60, FeC–Pd@C60, and CrC–Pd@C60 as having optimal ΔGH values close to zero, suggesting their superior catalytic performance. Structural analysis confirms the stability of these doped systems, with minimal distortions observed in the fullerene framework upon metal encapsulation and doping. Vibrational analysis revealed that Pd@C₆₀ complexes show reduced M − C vibrations and the formation of M − H bonds, indicating efficient hydrogen adsorption, especially in MnC–Pd@C₆₀ and VC-Pd@C₆₀. Thermodynamics investigation show MnC–Pd@C₆₀ and VC-Pd@C₆₀ to exhibit highly exothermic and spontaneous hydrogen adsorption. Overall, Ti, Fe, and Cr-based catalysts show weaker interactions, which might favor the desorption step in HER. On the other hand, catalysts with V and Mn show strong hydrogen interactions via the Tafel step, which might benefit initial hydrogen adsorption but could require optimization to ensure efficient hydrogen release. © 2024 Hydrogen Energy Publications LLC

The utilization of the carbon dioxide reduction reaction (CO2RR) through electrochemical means presents an effective approach for addressing the challenge posed by elevated carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions, facilitating carbon dioxide conversion into valuable end products. In current DFT investigation, a new approach involving the singular metal doping of BC4N electrocatalyst is highlighted. This catalyst demonstrates notable selectivity and durability in CO2RR. The study involved the exploration of different electrocatalysts by incorporating diverse transition metals such as Cu, Co, Zn, and Mn. Simulation findings from density functional theory demonstrated that the Co-doped BC4N electrocatalyst effectively adsorbs and triggers the activation of CO2. This efficiency was confirmed through analyses including crystal orbital Hamilton population, Bader charge, charge density difference (CDD), and partial density of states (DOS) assessments. Assessment of the threshold potential for CO2 reduction reaction has been determined to be −0.34 V, in contrast to hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) at 0.56 V, resulting primarily in production of formaldehyde. The catalyst exhibited a preference for CO2 reduction while concurrently inhibiting HER. The research indicates that the altered BC4N monolayer holds significant promise as a high-performance catalyst for CO2RR and offers crucial theoretical insights for developing effective CO2RR catalysts. © 2025 Elsevier B.V.

In recent years, nanostructured materials have played a key role in eliminating organic solvents from diverse mediums in various fields such as the fabrication of nano-adsorbents with high versatility. The dispersion corrected DFT approach was adopted within the current study to investigate the adhesion of NH3 onto the pure ZnO nanotube (P-ZnONT) and Si-doped ZnONT (Si-ZnONT) since this approach is one of the powerful tools used to explore the nature of interactions and molecular systems at the atomic level. For this purpose, we investigated the interacting systems optimized geometric parameters as well as the active sites. By performing the ELF analysis and the calculation of charge transport, interaction energies and electronic attributes, the binding properties of interacting species are investigated to assess the capability of P-ZnONT and Si-ZnONT in adsorbing NH3. Moreover, doping the Si atom enhanced the adhesion strength of the nanotubes dramatically. The results showed that SiZnONT was a suitable sensor to detect NH3. The current findings can shed light into designing new nano-sensors as economical tolls for detecting pollutants in freshwater. © 2025 Elsevier B.V.

Bioactive phytochemicals derived from plant extracts have drawn considerable interest due to their potential for the creation of novel medications and for the ‘environmentally friendly’ synthesis of ‘nanoparticles.’ In the present study, a variety of techniques, including LC-Mass, NMR, and CHNOS elements, were used to identify quercetin, which was extracted from chopped onion and later utilized as a reducing agent for the “biosynthesis of Fe3O4 nanoparticles”. The obtained Fe3O4 was characterized by zeta potential (Z-P), field emission scanning electron microscopy, EDs, TEM, and zeta potentials. Air-dried chopped onion (2 kg) was extracted and purified, yielding 24.0 %. The structure of the isolated quercetin was determined using column chromatography, spectroscopic techniques, and elemental analysis. In this study, Fe3O4 nanoparticles were prepared using quercetin extract. The antiviral and antibacterial activities of Quercetin, and Fe3O4 NPs were determined using the well diffusion method against pathogenic microbes, Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. It was observed that the greatest effect against influenza virus and bacterial strains was Quercetin combined with Fe3O4 nanoparticles compared with Quercetin and Fe3O4 NPs alone. Our findings suggest that Fe3O4 NPs, and Quercetin may be used in the future as a synergistic model for more biomedical applications. © 2025 The Authors

Cancer treatment era has been revolutionized by the novel therapeutic methods such as immunotherapy in recent years. Immunotherapy-based approaches are considered effective and reliable methods that has brought hope to eradicate certain cancers. Nonetheless, there are some issues, considered as critical obstacles in successful cancer immunotherapy. Such issues are attributed to the ability of the tumor cells in providing a tolerant microenvironment that impairs the immune responses, and help the cancer cells evade the immunogenic cell death. It has been suggested that the re-activation and maintenance of effector immune cells may become possible by metabolic reprogramming. Several signaling pathways have been noticed with the possibility of metabolic reprogramming of tumor-specific T cells, to overcome the metabolic restrictions in the tumor microenvironment; and among them, AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPAR) have been investigated the most as the main energy sensors and regulators of mitochondrial biogenesis. The synergic effects of AMPK activators and/or PPAR agonists in cancer immunotherapy have been reported. In this review, we compare the roles of AMPK activators and PPAR agonists, and the efficacy of their combination in metabolic reprogramming of cytotoxic T cells in favoring cancer immunotherapy. © The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Association of Clinical Biochemists of India 2024.

Background: Medicinal plants, predominantly those rich in polyphenolic mixtures, have been recommended to have chemopreventive and chemotherapeutic effects. This study aimed to investigate the effects of Urtica dioica L. extract (UDE) on angiogenesis and prostate cancer (PCa) cell progression through the phosphoinositide 3-kinase/Protein kinase B/endothelial nitric oxide synthase (PI3K/AKT/eNOS) signaling pathway. Method: This study employed an in vitro experimental design using PCa cell lines. To gain mechanistic insights into the anti-proliferative properties of UDE, PCa cell proliferation was assessed using an MTT (3-(4, 5-dimethylthiazolyl-2)-2, 5-diphenyl-tetrazolium bromide) assay in DU-145 cells (incubated for 48h). Also, we explored expression patterns of PI3K/AKT/eNOS pathway genes with therapeutic potential (with 50 µg/ml of UDE) in DU-145 cells by quantitative polymerase chain reaction and western blotting assay. Furthermore, we applied the ELISA cell death assay kit to reveal the apoptotic effects of UDE on PCa cells. Statistical analysis was determined using the Mann-Whitney U test and P ≤ 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: UDE significantly decreased the cell viability after 48 h of treatment in DU-145 cells. Also, reducing the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) levels revealed anti-angiogenic outcomes. Also, the eNOS level in the PI3K/AKT/eNOS pathway is dramatically alleviated upon treatment with UDE. Moreover, the apoptosis rate of DU-145 cells was enhanced compared with the control group. Conclusion: The antitumoral activity of UDE was prominent in its persuasive anti-angiogenic potential, as UDE contributed to a striking diminish in PI3K/AKT/eNOS pathway in PCa and diminished the VEGF expression. © Middle East Journal of Cancer.

Adrenal insufficiency (AI) is a serious disorder characterized by the adrenal glucocorticoid deficiency. Regardless of the etiology, AI patients need long-term replacement therapy for glucocorticoids and, in some cases, for mineralocorticoids. The replacement therapy cannot completely mirror the physiological secretion patterns, and therefore, glucocorticoid excess is a common sequela in AI patients. Moreover, due to the absence of the reliable clinical markers to monitor the adequacy of the replacement therapy, clinicians often over-treat the AI patients to avoid adrenal crisis. Long-term glucocorticoid use is associated with the loss of bone density and osteoporosis, increasing the risk of fractures. Moreover, glucocorticoid-induced hyperglycemia and type 2 diabetes mellitus further aggravates the bone disorders. In the recent years, ameliorating effects of metformin on glucocorticoid-induced bone disorders, as well as hyperglycemia, have been reported by a multitude of studies; and here, we reviewed and discussed the most recent findings regarding the positive effects of metformin on alleviating the bone disorders, and their implications in the AI patients. © The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Association of Clinical Biochemists of India 2023.

This article has been retracted: please see Elsevier Policy on Article Withdraw al (https://www.elsevier.com/about/policies/article-withdrawal). This article has been retracted at the request of the Editor. Authorship of this article appears to have been offered on the Telegram messaging platform which conflicts with the policies of the journal. Fig. 1 shows serious errors. The figure represents the yields of reactions in different solvents, with a scale that extends up to 180%. Although the actual yields are well below 100%, additional experimental data (reaction time, in minutes) is added to the yields. Such an overlap of data of completely different natures on the same scale makes no sense. Fig. 5d seems to be manipulated. The figure displays identical curve portions (including fluctuations) for systems supposed to be different (protein alone and protein-ligand complex). This cannot have any rational explanation other than manipulation of this figure. Also the caption of the figure does not match with the figure. © 2025 Elsevier B.V.

Colistin is used as a last resort for the management of infections caused by multi-drug resistant (MDR) bacteria. However, the use of this antibiotic could lead to different side effects, such as nephrotoxicity, in most patients, and the high prevalence of colistin-resistant strains restricts the use of colistin in the clinical setting. Additionally, colistin could induce resistance through the increased formation of biofilm; biofilm-embedded cells are highly resistant to antibiotics, and as with other antibiotics, colistin is impaired by bacteria in the biofilm community. In this regard, the researchers used combination therapy for the enhancement of colistin activity against bacterial biofilm, especially MDR bacteria. Different antibacterial agents, such as antimicrobial peptides, bacteriophages, natural compounds, antibiotics from different families, N-acetylcysteine, and quorum-sensing inhibitors, showed promising results when combined with colistin. Additionally, the use of different drug platforms could also boost the efficacy of this antibiotic against biofilm. The mentioned colistin-based combination therapy not only could suppress the formation of biofilm but also could destroy the established biofilm. These kinds of treatments also avoided the emergence of colistin-resistant subpopulations, reduced the required dosage of colistin for inhibition of biofilm, and finally enhanced the dosage of this antibiotic at the site of infection. However, the exact interaction of colistin with other antibacterial agents has not been elucidated yet; therefore, further studies are required to identify the precise mechanism underlying the efficient removal of biofilms by colistin-based combination therapy. © The Author(s) under exclusive licence to Sociedade Brasileira de Microbiologia 2023.

Food packaging is a multidisciplinary field that includes food science, chemistry, engineering materials sciences and microbiology. Food packaging has sparked great interest in protecting the freshness and quality of foods and their raw materials from oxidation and microbial spoilage. Nanotechnology, especially electrospinning, has shown promising results in fabricating sophisticated food packaging materials. The current paper aims to review, highlight, discuss and challenge the latest electrospun food packaging studies. We will not only summarize the studies but also challenge the applied methods, materials and results. Moreover, we offer a more practical point of view regarding the industrial translation of electrospun food packaging. © 2024 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Background & aims: Taking into account the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of omega-3 fatty acids and the evidence indicating the role of chronic inflammation and oxidative stress in the pathophysiology diabetes, this study aimed to determine the effect of ω−3 fatty acids on oxidative stress and inflammatory markers in Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients. Methods: A systematic search up to July 30, 2023 was completed in Scopus, PubMed, Web of Science, and Embase databases, to identify eligible RCTs. Heterogeneity tests of the selected studies were performed using the I2. Random effects models were assessed and pooled data were determined as standardized mean differences (SMD) with a 95 % CI. Results: The meta-analysis of 23 trials, involving 1523 patients, demonstrated a significant decrease in TNF-α (SMD: −1.62, 95 % CI: −2.89 to −0.35, P= 0.013) and increase in TAC (SMD: 0.92, 95 % CI: 0.33–1.52, P = 0.002) following ω−3 fatty acids administration. Meanwhile, supplementation did not have beneficial effects on malondialdehyde, C-reactive protein (CRP), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and interlukin-6 levels. The subgroup analysis revealed a significant decrease in CRP levels and an increase in SOD levels in studies with durations of less than 12 weeks. Conclusions: We found that ω−3 fatty acid intake can significantly decrease TNF-α and increase TAC levels, but this effect was not observed on other markers. Nevertheless, future well-designed with large sample size and long duration RCT studies with precise ω−3 fatty acids dose and ingredients are required to understand better the effects of these compounds and their constituents on oxidative stress and inflammatory markers in T2DM patients. © 2024 Elsevier Inc.

Researchers have become more interested in new nanotechnologies for radiotherapy over the past few years. To increase radiotherapy (RT) efficacy, it is very desirable to design nanoparticles (NPs) that efficiently generate hazardous reactive oxygen species (ROS) when exposed to X-rays. As a potential nanoradiosensitizer, the potential of CuS NPs, is investigated here. For this aim, bovine serum albumin (BSA) coated CuS NPs, CuS@BSANPs, were synthesized through a biomineralization approach. CuS@BSANPs show a spherical shape and have an average size of 13.15 ± 3.4 nm. It show hydrodynamic size about 37 nm and the zata potential about −45 mV. MTT assay shows that 4T1 cells growth was inhibited when it was co-treated with CuS@BSANPs and X-ray irradiation. Under combination therapy, there is a large rise in the ROS level in the cells, which plays an important role in the greater damage caused to cancer cells. The CuS@BSANPs show the potential to be a very effective nanoradiosensitizer agent for the treatment of cancer. © 2023

Theoretical research has introduced two-dimensional structures of thin sheets known as the pristine C2N monolayer and the Zn-doped C2N monolayer. These sheets show promise as nanocarriers for delivering the anticancer drug purinethol (PU). Through calculations of binding energy (Eb), it was observed that both the pristine C2N monolayer (−0.505 eV) and the Zn-decorated C2N monolayer (−0.762 eV) exhibit favorable characteristics for drug delivery. Eb values fall within range of physisorption, indicating their suitability as candidates for transporting drugs. An observed charge transfer (CT) of 0.035 e occurs in the Zn-decorated C2N monolayer, leading to a depletion of charge in the Zn-doped C2N monolayer system. The primary contributor to this charge loss is the Zn atom, which experiences a charge reduction of 0.035 e. To understand the phenomenon of drug release, the binding energy was recalculated under biological conditions, specifically in an acidic environment. The results indicate a decline in Eb (−0.218 eV) as well as a short recovery time, suggesting successful release of PU within body. The theoretical predictions we have made are expected to serve as inspiration for experimental researchers in their efforts to design drug delivery systems (DDSs) based on C2N monolayers. © 2024 Elsevier B.V.

Introduction: Dyslipidemia with a considerable progression rate is a primary risk factor for CVDs if left untreated. Dietary interventions have explored the health influences of selenium on lipid profiles in adults, yet the findings remain contentious. This study seeks to determine if selenium supplementation can positively modify the lipid profile (total cholesterol (TC), triglyceride (TG), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), very-low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (VLDL), and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) in adults. Methods: Using predefined keywords, we searched online databases, including Scopus, PubMed, Web of Science Core Collection, and Google Scholar, for relevant studies published from inception through July 2024. A random-effects meta-analysis was then employed to pool the weighted mean differences (WMD) and 95 % CI for outcomes assessed by a minimum of three studies. Results: Initially 1205 studies were obtained out of which 25 RCTs were decided to be included for further analyses. Selenium supplementation reduced VLDL (WMD: −1.53; 95 % CI: −2.86, −0.20), but did not change TG (WMD: 1.12; 95 % CI: −4.51, 6.74), TC (WMD: −2.25; 95 % CI: −6.80, 2.29), LDL-C (WMD: 1.60; 95 % CI: −4.26, 7.46), and HDL-C levels (WMD: 0.98; 95 % CI: - 0.02, 1.98). Conclusion: Our study showed significantly reduced VLDL but limited effects were observed in other lipid indexes. More extensive RCTs are required globally to achieve a holistic comprehension of the connection between selenium and lipid profile. © 2024 Elsevier Inc.

Objectives: Alzheimer’s disease (AD), a brain disorder, is the leading cause of dementia among older adults. Taurine, an amino acid abundantly present in the brain, and shows potential neuroprotective properties. Therefore, we investigated the effects of taurine on Matrix Metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) levels and the expression changes of miRNA-21 and miRNA-146a in the SH-SY5Y cell line. Methods: Taurine’s impact on the SH-SY5Y cell line was evaluated via the 2,5-diphenyl-2H-tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay. MMP-9 levels were measured using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kit, while the expression of miRNA-21 and miRNA-146a genes was assessed through Real-Time PCR analysis. Results: The MTT assay revealed no toxic effects on SH-SY5Y cells with increasing concentrations of taurine. Analysis of gene expression indicated a rise in miRNA-21 expression and a decline in miRNA-146 expression with increasing taurine concentration, with the most notable change observed at 1 mg/mL taurine (p<0.001). ELISA results demonstrated a significant increase in MMP-9 levels in the SH-SY5Y cell line treated with 1 mg/mL taurine compared to the untreated group (p<0.001). Conclusions: Our study revealed that taurine can alter the expression of miRNA-146a and miRNA-21. In conclusion, taurine therapy presents promising therapeutic avenues for treating AD or mitigating severe symptoms. Nonetheless, further research is necessary to comprehensively grasp the precise mechanisms at play. © 2024 Walter de Gruyter GmbH, Berlin/Boston.

MicroRNA-126 (miR-126) has become a key player in the biology of cancer, playing a variety of functions in carcinogenesis and cancer development. The diagnostic and prognostic potential of miR-126 in diverse cancer types is summarized in this thorough analysis, with an emphasis on its role in tumor angiogenesis, invasion, metastasis, cell proliferation, apoptosis, and treatment resistance. MiR-126 dysregulation is linked to a higher risk of developing cancer and a worse prognosis. Notably, miR-126 affects tumor vascularization and development by targeting vascular endothelial growth factor-A (VEGF-A). Through its impact on genes involved in cell adhesion and migration, it also plays a vital part in cancer cell invasion and metastasis. Additionally, miR-126 controls drug resistance, apoptosis, and cell proliferation, which affects cancer cell survival and treatment response. It may be possible to develop innovative therapeutic approaches to stop tumor angiogenesis, invasion, and metastasis, as well as combat drug resistance by focusing on miR-126 or its downstream effectors. The versatility of miR-126's functions highlights the role that it plays in cancer biology. To understand the processes behind miR-126 dysregulation, pinpoint precise targets, and create efficient therapies, more investigation is required. Utilizing miR-126's therapeutic potential might have a significant influence on cancer treatment plans and patient outcomes. © 2023 Elsevier GmbH

Undifferentiated, highly proliferative, clonogenic, and self-renewing dental stem cells have paved the way for novel approaches to mending cleft palates, rebuilding lost jawbone and periodontal tissue, and, most significantly, recreating lost teeth. New treatment techniques may be guided by a better understanding of these cells and their potential in terms of the specificity of the regenerative response. MicroRNAs have been recognized as an essential component in stem cell biology due to their role as epigenetic regulators of the processes that determine stem cell destiny. MicroRNAs have been proven to be crucial in a wide variety of molecular and biological processes, including apoptosis, cell proliferation, migration, and necrocytosis. MicroRNAs have been recognized to control protein translation, messenger RNA stability, and transcription and have been reported to play essential roles in dental stem cell biology, including the differentiation of dental stem cells, the immunological response, apoptosis, and the inflammation of the dental pulp. Because microRNAs increase dental stem cell differentiation, they may be used in regenerative medicine to either preserve the stem cell phenotype or to aid in the development of tooth tissue. The development of novel biomarkers and therapies for dental illnesses relies heavily on progress made in our knowledge of the roles played by microRNAs in regulating dental stem cells. In this article, we discuss how dental stem cells and their associated microRNAs may be used to cure dental illness. Graphical Abstract: [Figure not available: see fulltext.] © 2023, The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Nature Switzerland AG.

The skeleton is a living organ that undergoes constant changes, including bone formation and resorption. It is affected by various diseases, such as osteoporosis, osteopenia, and osteomalacia. Nowadays, several methods are applied to protect bone health, including the use of hormonal and non-hormonal medications and supplements. However, certain drugs like glucocorticoids, thiazolidinediones, heparin, anticonvulsants, chemotherapy, and proton pump inhibitors can endanger bone health and cause bone loss. New studies are exploring the use of supplements, such as conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) and glucosamine, with fewer side effects during treatment. Various mechanisms have been proposed for the effects of CLA and glucosamine on bone structure, both direct and indirect. One mechanism that deserves special attention is the regulatory effect of RANKL/RANK/OPG on bone turnover. The RANKL/RANK/OPG pathway is considered a motive for osteoclast maturation and bone resorption. The cytokine system, consisting of the receptor activator of the nuclear factor (NF)-kB ligand (RANKL), its receptor RANK, and its decoy receptor, osteoprotegerin (OPG), plays a vital role in bone turnover. Over the past few years, researchers have observed the impact of CLA and glucosamine on the RANKL/RANK/OPG mechanism of bone turnover. However, no comprehensive study has been published on these supplements and their mechanism. To address this gap in knowledge, we have critically reviewed their potential effects. This review aims to assist in developing efficient treatment strategies and focusing future studies on these supplements. © 2023, The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Nature B.V.

Aerobic glycolysis, also known as the Warburg effect, is a metabolic phenomenon frequently observed in cancer cells, characterized by the preferential utilization of glucose through glycolysis, even under normal oxygen conditions. This metabolic shift provides cancer cells with a proliferative advantage and supports their survival and growth. While the Warburg effect has been extensively studied, the underlying mechanisms driving this metabolic adaptation in cancer cells remain incompletely understood. In recent years, emerging evidence has suggested a potential link between endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress and the promotion of aerobic glycolysis in cancer cells. The ER is a vital organelle involved in protein folding, calcium homeostasis, and lipid synthesis. Various cellular stresses, such as hypoxia, nutrient deprivation, and accumulation of misfolded proteins, can lead to ER stress. In response, cells activate the unfolded protein response (UPR) to restore ER homeostasis. However, prolonged or severe ER stress can activate alternative signaling pathways that modulate cellular metabolism, including the promotion of aerobic glycolysis. This review aims to provide an overview of the current understanding regarding the influence of ER stress on aerobic glycolysis in cancer cells to shed light on the complex interplay between ER stress and metabolic alterations in cancer cells. Understanding the intricate relationship between ER stress and the promotion of aerobic glycolysis in cancer cells may provide valuable insights for developing novel therapeutic strategies targeting metabolic vulnerabilities in cancer. © 2023 Elsevier GmbH

Free radicals were formerly considered as a highly reactive, transient, and destructive entities. Free radicals are exceedingly unstable and highly reactive with other biological molecules, often having one or more unpaired electrons. Free radicals' open-shell electrical structure makes them ready for harnessing in biological applications. In particular, free radical regulation-based nanotherapeutics have become a novel therapy option for cancer. Recent developments on free radicals and their uses in cancer therapy are discussed in this review. Photodynamic treatment (PDT), sonodynamic therapy (SDT), radiation therapy (RT), chemodynamic therapy (CDT), and ferroptosis therapy are only some of the emerging approaches that rely on the creation of free radicals by nanoparticles (NPs) which discussed here. Finally, several challenges and promising future directions for free radical regulation-based nanotherapeutics in cancer therapy are highlighted. © 2023 Elsevier B.V.

Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) represents a challenging and aggressive form of breast cancer associated with limited treatment options and poor prognosis. Although chemotherapy is a primary therapeutic approach, drug resistance often hinders treatment success. However, the expanding knowledge of TNBC subtypes and molecular biology has paved the way for targeted therapies. Notably, exosomes (extracellular vesicles) have emerged as crucial carriers of tumorigenic factors involved in oncogenesis and drug resistance, facilitating cell-to-cell communication and offering potential as self-delivery systems. Among the cargo carried by exosomes, microRNAs (miRNAs) have gained attention due to their ability to mediate epigenetic changes in recipient cells upon transfer. Research has confirmed dysregulation of exosomal miRNAs in breast cancer cells compared to healthy cells, establishing them as promising biomarkers for cancer diagnosis and prognosis. In this comprehensive review, we summarize the latest research findings that underscore the diagnostic and prognostic significance of exosomal miRNAs in TNBC treatment. Furthermore, we explore contemporary therapeutic approaches utilizing these exosomal miRNAs for the benefit of TNBC patients, shedding light on potential breakthroughs in TNBC management. © 2023 Elsevier GmbH

Cockroaches are very capable of mechanically transmitting harmful microorganisms, which is seen to be a severe hazard to the general public's health. The purpose of this study was the evaluation of cockroach bacterial contamination in various locations throughout Babylon. 300 cockroaches were caught from different wards of the hospital, restaurants, and houses. Using PBS buffer, the external surface of the cockroaches was washed to collect bacteria. Standard phenotypic methods were used to identify and classify bacteria. Afterward, the bacterial resistance to different antibiotics was investigated using the Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion susceptibility test. The 200 (66.6 %) American cockroaches including 56 (18.7 %) Blattella germanica and 44 (14.6 %) Blatta orientalis were identified. Noteworthy, 96.6 % of cockroaches were infected with different bacteria. Bacillus strains, coagulase-negative Staphylococci (CoNs), and Escherichia coli were the most frequent among the isolated bacteria. On average, the highest antibiotic resistance was detected to cefotaxime, ampicillin, cephalothin, and kanamycin. On the other hand, the isolated bacteria showed high sensitivity to gentamicin, nitrofurantoin, tetracycline, trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole (SXT), and chloramphenicol. high antibiotic resistance in bacteria isolated from different wards of the hospital and the high potential of transmission of these bacteria by cockroaches is a serious warning for the health of society. © 2023 The Authors

Cancer is a major threat to human health, and it is still the leading cause of death from disease. Due to how quickly nanomedicine is developing, it is thought that nanoscale metal-organic frameworks (MOF) could be used in the treatment and biomedical imaging of many types of cancer. More and more researchers are interested in zeolite imidazole framework (ZIF)−8 because it has a high porosity, a large specific surface area, and reacts to changes in pH. Understanding the properties of nanomaterials and how tumour works requires a complex and thorough look at how ZIF-8 nanoparticles (NPs) are made, how they can be changed, and how drugs are loaded into them. We mostly looked at the research that came out in the last three years, summed up how their use in imaging and treating tumour has changed, and talked about the pros and cons of using ZIF-8 NPs for cancer theranostic now and in the future. As a MOF material with a lot of potentials, ZIF-8 is likely to be used in more therapeutic systems in the future and to continue to help with all parts of tumour therapy and diagnosis. © 2023 Vietnam Academy of Science & Technology.

Cholangiocarcinoma, also referred to as CCA, is a highly complex epithelial malignancy that can impact various organs and regions of the body, including the perihilar, intrahepatic, and distal organs. This cancer is characterized by the malignant growth of the epithelial lining in the bile ducts, which spans the entire biliary tree and is accountable for disease progression. The current state of affairs concerning CCA is concerning, with poor prognoses, high recurrence rates, and dismal long-term survival rates significantly burden healthcare facilities worldwide. Studies have identified numerous signaling pathways and molecules involved in the development and progression of CCA, including microRNAs, an important class of non-coding RNAs that have the ability to modulate these cellular signaling pathways significantly. In addition, microRNAs may serve as an innovative target for developing novel therapeutic approaches for CCA. In this review, we explore the underlying mechanisms and signaling pathways implicated in the initiation and progression of CCA, focusing on the future direction of utilizing microRNAs as a promising treatment option for this challenging malignancy. © 2023 Elsevier GmbH

The immune system uses various immune checkpoint axes to adjust responses, support homeostasis, and deter self-reactivity and autoimmunity. Nevertheless, non-small-cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC) can use protective mechanisms to facilitate immune evasion, which leads to potentiated cancer survival and proliferation. In this light, many blocking anti-bodies have been developed to negatively regulate checkpoint molecules, in particular, programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1) / PD-ligand 1 (L1), and bypass these immune suppressive mechanisms. Meanwhile, anti-PD-1 anti-bodies such as nivolumab, pembrolizumab, cemiplimab, and sintilimab have shown excellent competence in successfully inspiring immune responses versus NSCLC. Accordingly, the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has recently approved nivolumab (alone or in combination with ipilimumab) and pembrolizumab (alone or in combination with chemotherapy) as first-line treatment for advanced NSCLC patients. However, PD-1 blockade monotherapy remains inefficient in more than 60% of NSCLC patients, and many patients don't respond or acquire resistance to this modality. Also, toxicities related to anti-PD-1 anti-body have been progressively identified in clinical trials and oncology practice. Herein, we will outline the clinical benefits of PD-1 blockade therapy alone or in combination with other treatments (e.g., chemotherapy, radiotherapy, anti-angiogenic therapy) in NSCLC patients. Moreover, we will take a glimpse into the recently identified predictive biomarkers to determine patients most likely to suffer serious adverse events to decrease untoward toxicity risk and diminish treatment costs. © 2023 Elsevier GmbH

The Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome CoronaVirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is responsible for ongoing epidemics in humans and some other mammals and has been declared a public health emergency of international concern. In this project, several small non-peptide molecules were synthesized to inhibit the major proteinase (Mpro) of SARS-CoV-2 using rational strategies of drug design and medicinal chemistry. Mpro is a key enzyme of coronaviruses and plays an essential role in mediating viral replication and transcription in human lung epithelial and stem cells, making it an attractive drug target for SARS-CoV. The antiviral potential of imidazoline derivatives as inhibitors of (SARS-CoV-2) Mpro was evaluated using in-silico techniques such as molecular docking simulation, molecular dynamics (MD), and ADMET prediction. The docking scores of these imidazoline derivatives were compared to that of the N3 crystal inhibitor and showed that most of these compounds, particularly compound E07, interacted satisfactorily in the active site of the coronavirus and strongly interacted with the residues (Met 165, Gln 166, Met 165, His 41, and Gln 189). Furthermore, the results were confirmed by MD simulations after exposure to long-term MD simulations and ADMET predictions. © 2023 Elsevier B.V.

Background: Around 15% of couples of childbearing age suffer from infertility; in 50% of these cases, the male factor is present. In this study, we investigated the association between anti-ODF2 autoantibody existence and the DNA fragmentation and apoptosis of sperm in oligozoospermia men. Material and methods: 35 fertile men and 57 oligozoospermia men are enrolled in this study as control and case groups, respectively. After the identification of ODF2 as a possible target of anti-sperm antibodies in sera of oligozoospermia men using two-dimensional gel electrophoresis followed by western blotting and mass spectrometry, the case group serums were screened for anti-ODF2 autoantibodies and divided into anti-ODF2 negative (N = 24) and positive (N = 33) subgroups to follow assays. The mRNA expression levels of ODF2, Caspases 3, 8, 9, BAX, and BCL-2 were evaluated via qRT-PCR in spermatozoa samples of mentioned groups. DNA fragmentation and apoptosis rate of spermatozoa in studied groups were assessed using an SDF kit and flow cytometry, respectively. Results: Mass spectrometry showed that ODF2 is one of the anti-sperm antibodies targeted in oligozoospermia patients. 33 of 57 oligozoospermia men had anti-ODF2 autoantibody in their sera. An elevated expression of ODF2 mRNA was observed in spermatozoa of anti-ODF2+ patients compared to anti-ODF2- patients and controls. There was an increased expression level of Caspase 3, 8, 9, and BAX and decreased expression of BCL-2 in spermatozoa of anti-ODF2+ patients compared to anti-ODF2- patients and controls. Noticeable increases in DNA fragmentation and apoptosis rate of anti-ODF2+ patients' spermatozoa were observed compared to anti-ODF2- patients and healthy controls spermatozoa. A positive correlation was observed between ODF-2 expression and DNF fragmentation and apoptosis rate of anti-ODF2+ patients' spermatozoa. Conclusion: Our results revealed that ODF2 is one of the main spermatozoa structural proteins, which is one of the anti-sperm antibodies targets, and its dysregulated expression may result in an increased rate of sperm DNA fragmentation and apoptosis. © 2023 Elsevier GmbH

Chemotherapy is a main approach used to treat cancerous tumors. Nevertheless, the resistance to drugs that patients develop over time reduces the effectiveness of treatment and results in failure for many patients. Exosomes are tiny vesicles created by cells that are between 30 and 150 nm in size. They transport molecules like proteins, lipids, DNAs, RNAs, and to facilitate interaction between cells in the progression of tumors. Circular RNAs (circRNAs), which are covalently closed-loop RNA structures, govern numerous genes and signaling pathways to regulate the proliferation, death, and metastasis of cancer cells. Exosomes contain a large amount of circRNAs that are consistently expressed. Current research indicates that circRNAs have significant functions in chemotherapy resistance in different types of cancers. This review provides an overview of the role of exosomes in cancer chemotherapy resistance and examines how exosomal circRNAs regulate drug resistance in various cancers. © 2023

Purpose: Nano-photosensitizer-based light-activated treatments are safe for numerous cancer indications. Photodynamic therapy (PDT) induces chemical damage to targeted lesions, and photothermal therapy (PTT) causes thermal damage. PTT contrast agents are not required for PDT, but they can boost their effectiveness. PDT uses photosensitizers. Phototherapies based on nanoparticles exhibit high efficacy, limited invasion, and few harmful effects when used to treat cancers. This review discusses phototherapies for cancer therapy and developing preclinical methodologies that may improve their effectiveness and utility. Methods: All the reported works were retrieved from two databases (i.e., PubMed and Google Scholar) using the keywords “Photothermal therapy” “immunotherapy”, “cancer”, “nanoparticles”, and “photodynamic therapy”. This paper surveyed studies on nanoparticle-based photo/immunotherapies and examined recent nanoparticle-based PTT and PDT developments. We also will be discussed difficulties and potential future research areas. Results: Recent research has focused on these phototherapies. Phototherapeutic devices and drugs have been evolved recently for cancer treatments, however, considerable difficulties have limited their clinical use to a few dermatological disorders. Combining nano-based photosensitizers with chemotherapies or immunotherapies for targeting or localizing activation could improve outcomes and reduce adverse effects. Conclusion: These innovative approaches are anticipated to play a significant role in advancing conventional tumor therapy approaches. © 2023, Taiwanese Society of Biomedical Engineering.