Non-conjugated polymers with intrinsic luminescence for drug delivery

Effect of functionalization on the adsorption performance of carbon nanotube as a drug delivery system for imatinib: molecular simulation study

In this study, efficiency of functionalized carbon nanotube as a potential delivery system for imatinib anti-cancer drug was investigated. Accordingly, carboxyl and hydroxyl functionalized carbon nanotube were inspected as a notable candidate for the carriage of this drug in aqueous media. For this purpose, possible interactions of imatinib with pure and functionalized carbon nanotube were considered in aqueous media. The compounds were optimized in gas phase using density functional calculations. Solvation free energies and association free energies of the optimized structures were then studied by Monte Carlo simulation and perturbation method in water environment. Outcomes of quantum mechanical calculations presented that pure and functionalized carbon nanotubes can act as imatinib drug adsorbents in gas phase. However, results of association free energy calculations in aqueous solution indicated that only carboxyl and hydroxyl functionalized carbon nanotubes could interact with imatinib. Monte Carlo simulation results revealed that electrostatic interactions play a vital role in the intermolecular interaction energies after binding of drug and nanotube in aqueous solution. Computed solvation free energies in water showed that the interactions with functionalized carbon nanotubes significantly enhance the solubility of imatinib, which could improve its in vivo bioavailability.

A robust optimization model for multi-objective blood supply chain network considering scenario analysis under uncertainty: a multi-objective approach

Annually, different regions of the world are affected by natural disasters such as floods and earthquakes, resulting in significant loss of lives and financial resources. These events necessitate rescue operations, including the provision and distribution of relief items like food and clothing. One of the most critical challenges in such crises is meeting the blood requirement, as an efficient and reliable blood supply chain is indispensable. The perishable nature of blood precludes the establishment of a reserve stock, making it essential to minimize shortages through effective approaches and designs. In this study, we develop a mathematical programming model to optimize supply chains in post-crisis scenarios using multiple objectives. Presented model allocates blood to various demand facilities based on their quantity and location, considering potential situations. We employ real data from a case study in Iran and a robust optimization approach to address the issue. The study identifies blood donation centers and medical facilities, as well as the number and locations of new facilities needed. We also conduct scenario analysis to enhance the realism of presented approach. Presented research demonstrates that with proper management, crises of this nature can be handled with minimal expense and deficiency.

Chirality-Regulated Clusteroluminescence in Polypeptides

The low emission efficiency of clusteroluminogens restricts their practical applications in the fields of sensors and biological imaging. In this work, the clusteroluminescence of ordered/disordered polypeptides was observed, and the photoluminescence (PL) intensity of polypeptides can be modulated by the chirality of amino acid residues. Polyglutamates with different chiral compositions were synthesized, and the racemic polypeptides exhibited a significantly higher PL intensity than the enantiopure ones. This emission originates from the n-π* transition between C═O groups of polypeptides and is enhanced by clusterization of polypeptides. CD and Fourier transform infrared spectra demonstrated that the enantiopure and racemic polypeptides form α-helix and random coil structures, respectively. The disordered polypeptides can form more chain entanglements and interchain interactions because of their high flexibility, leading to more clusterizations and stronger PL intensity. The rigidity of ordered helical structures restrains the chain entanglements, and the formation of intrachain hydrogen bonds between amide groups of the backbone impairs the interchain interaction between polypeptides, resulting in lower PL intensity. The PL intensity of the polypeptides can also be manipulated by the addition of urea or trifluoroacetic acid. Our study not only elucidates the chirality/order-based structure-property relationship of clusteroluminescence in peptide-based polymers but also offers implications for the rational design of fluorescent peptides/proteins.

Global systematic review and meta-analysis on prevalence and concentration of aflatoxins in peanuts oil and probabilistic risk assessment

Exposure to mycotoxins in food is largely unavoidable, and concerns about their health effects are growing. Consumption of vegetable oils such as peanuts oil has increased, hence several studies have been conducted on concentration of aflatoxins (AFs) in peanuts oil. Search was performed in Scopus and PubMed databases on prevalence and concentration of AFs in peanuts oil from 1 January 2005 to 15 April 29, 2022. Prevalence and concentration of AFs in peanuts oil was meta-analyzed based on country and type of AFs subgroups. In addition, health risk was calculated using monte carlo simulation method. Pooled prevalence of AFB1 in peanuts oil was 47.9%; AFB2, 46.45%; AFG1, 46.92% and AFG2, 54.01%. The Overall prevalence of AFTs was 49.30%, 95%CI (35.80-62.84%). Pooled concentration of AFB1 in peanuts oil was 2.30 μg/kg; AFB2, 0.77 μg/kg; AFG1, 0.07 μg/kg; AFG1, 0.28 μg/kg. The sort of country based on mean of MOEs in the adults consumers was Japan (47,059) > China (17,670) > Ethiopia (7,398) > Sudan (6,974) > USA (1,012) and sort of country based on mean of MOEs in the children was Japan (120,994) > China (46,991) > Ethiopia (19,251) > Sudan (18,200) > USA (2,620). Therefore, adults consumers were in considerable health risk in Ethiopia, Sudan and USA and for children in USA (MOE < 10,000).

Interaction of sulfasalazine with outer surface of boron-nitride nanotube as a drug carrier in aqueous solution: insights from quantum mechanics and Monte Carlo simulation

The improvement of the solubility of sulfasalazine in physiological media was the major aim of this study. Accordingly, BNNT inspected as a notable candidate for the carriage of this drug in aqueous media. For this purpose, four possible interactions of two tautomer of sulfasalazine with (9,0) boron-nitride nanotube were considered in aqueous media. The compounds were optimized in gas phase using density functional calculations. Solvation free energies and association free energies of the optimized structures were then studied by Monte Carlo simulation and perturbation method in water environment. Outcomes of quantum mechanical calculations presented that interaction of keto form of sulfasalazine produce the most stable complexes with boron-nitride nanotube in gas phase. Simulation results revealed that electrostatic interactions play a vital role in the intermolecular interaction energies after binding of drug and nanotube in aqueous solution. Results of association free energy calculations indicated that complexes of both two sulfasalazine tautomers (keto and enol) and nanotube were stable in solution. Computed solvation free energies in water showed that the interaction with boron-nitride nanotube significantly improved the solubility of sulfasalazine, which could improve its in vivo bioavailability.

Reduction-Responsive Chitosan-Based Injectable Hydrogels for Enhanced Anticancer Therapy

Selective delivery of anticancer drug molecules to the tumor site enhances local drug dosages, which leads to the death of cancer cells while simultaneously minimizing the negative effects of chemotherapy on other tissues, thereby improving the patient's quality of life. To address this need, we developed reduction-responsive chitosan-based injectable hydrogels via the inverse electron demand Diels-Alder reaction between tetrazine groups of disulfide-based cross-linkers and norbornene groups of chitosan derivatives, which were applied to the controlled delivery of doxorubicin (DOX). The swelling ratio, gelation time (90-500 s), mechanical strength (G'~350-850 Pa), network morphology, and drug-loading efficiency (≥92%) of developed hydrogels were investigated. The in vitro release studies of the DOX-loaded hydrogels were performed at pH 7.4 and 5.0 with and without DTT (10 mM). The biocompatibility of pure hydrogel and the in vitro anticancer activity of DOX-loaded hydrogels were demonstrated via MTT assay on HEK-293 and HT-29 cancer cell lines, respectively.

Alkali metal-doped borospherenes M@C4B32 (M = K, Na, and Li) as a highly efficient alternative for the drug delivery

CONTEXT

Nanomaterials enjoy a great surface-to-surface area ratio, small size, extremely high stability, satisfactory bio-compatibility, improved permeability, specificity in receptor targeting, and tunable lifetime. This paper investigates alkali metal-doped borospherenes M@C4B32 (in which M denotes K, Na, and Li) as a highly efficient alternative for the delivery of drugs using density functional theory (DFT) calculations. A borospherene with a B₃₆ nanocage doped with four C atoms (i.e., C4B32) recently showed promising performance. Therefore, the present work investigates C4B32 nanoclusters doped with alkali metals for the effective delivery of drugs.

METHODS

This paper primarily seeks to evaluate the interaction between thioguanine (TG) as a cancer drug and pristine M@C4B32 through DFT (PBE/6-31 + G (d)) calculations. The UV-Vis spectroscopy indicated a redshift in the complex electronic spectra to higher wavelengths (i.e., lower energy levels). Hence, K@C4B32 was concluded to be effective in TG delivery.

Design, Synthesis, In Silico and POM Studies for the Identification of the Pharmacophore Sites of Benzylidene Derivatives

Due to the uneven distribution of glycosidase enzyme expression across bacteria and fungi, glycoside derivatives of antimicrobial compounds provide prospective and promising antimicrobial materials. Therefore, herein, we report the synthesis and characterization of six novel methyl 4,6-O-benzylidene-α-d-glucopyranoside (MBG) derivatives (2–7). The structures were ascertained using spectroscopic techniques and elemental analyses. Antimicrobial tests (zone of inhibition, MIC and MBC) were carried out to determine their ability to inhibit the growth of different Gram-positive, Gram-negative bacteria and fungi. The highest antibacterial activity was recorded with compounds 4, 5, 6 and 7. The compounds with the most significant antifungal efficacy were 4, 5, 6 and 7. Based on the prediction of activity spectra for substances (PASS), compounds 4 and 7 have promising antimicrobial capacity. Molecular docking studies focused on fungal and bacterial proteins where derivatives 3 and 6 exhibited strong binding affinities. The molecular dynamics study revealed that the complexes formed by these derivatives with the proteins L,D-transpeptidase Ykud and endoglucanase from Aspergillus niger remained stable, both over time and in physiological conditions. Structure–activity relationships, including in vitro and in silico results, revealed that the acyl chains [lauroyl-(CH3(CH2)10CO-), cinnamoyl-(C6H5CH=CHCO-)], in combination with sugar, were found to have the most potential against human and fungal pathogens. Synthetic, antimicrobial and pharmacokinetic studies revealed that MBG derivatives have good potential for antimicrobial activity, developing a therapeutic target for bacteria and fungi. Furthermore, the Petra/Osiris/Molinspiration (POM) study clearly indicated the presence of an important (O1δ−----O2δ−) antifungal pharmacophore site. This site can also be explored as a potential antiviral moiety.

Cross-linked chitosan/lysozyme hydrogels with inherent antibacterial activity and tuneable drug release properties for cutaneous drug administration

Gels with high drug release sustainability and intrinsic antibacterial properties are of high practical potential for cutaneous drug administration, particularly for wound care and skin disease treatment. This study reports the generation and characterization of gels formed by 1,5-pentanedial-mediated crosslinking between chitosan and lysozyme for cutaneous drug delivery. Structures of the gels are characterized by using scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffractometry and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy. An increase in the mass percentage of lysozyme leads to an increase in the swelling ratio and erosion susceptibility of the resulting gels. The drug delivery performance of the gels can be changed simply by manipulating the chitosan/lysozyme mass-to-mass ratio, with an increase in the mass percentage of lysozyme leading to a decline in the encapsulation efficiency and drug release sustainability of the gels. Not only do all gels tested in this study show negligible toxicity in NIH/3T3 fibroblasts, they also demonstrate intrinsic antibacterial effects against both Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria, with the magnitude of the effect being positively related to the mass percentage of lysozyme. All these warrant the gels to be further developed as intrinsically antibacterial carriers for cutaneous drug administration.

Application of zinc oxide nano-tube as drug-delivery vehicles of anticancer drug

CONTEXT

Zinc oxide nano-tube (ZnONT) nano-structures, which possess chemical stability and non-toxicity in the human body, are considered promising for delivering different drugs. Within this work, we scrutinized the drug delivery capability of the ZnONT and its adsorptional properties as a drug delivery vehicle (DDV) for hydroxyurea (HU) as an anti-cancer drug through density functional theory along with the solvent impacts. Based on the optimized structures, it can be suggested that Zn atoms of ZnONT are the ideal sites on this nano-tube for the adsorption of HU. HU had a strong physical adsorption through the O atom of carbonyl groups onto the local pyramidal site of the ZnONT. At 1.96 Å and Ead of -39.28 kcal/mol, in the configuration which was favorable in terms of energy, there was an interaction between the O atoms of -C=O group of the drug and a Zn atom of the ZnONT. In order to scrutinize the excited state properties of the HU-ZnONT complex, we also examined the UV/Vis data of the HU/ZnONT interaction system. Following the adsorption of HU onto the surface of the ZnONT, there was a significant red-shift based on the maximum absorption wavelength, showing that the ZnONT is an ideal candidate for optic sensors in order to detect and monitor the drug molecule. HU could be released in the cancer tissues where pH was low based on the drug release mechanism. The current work thoroughly investigated the mechanism of interaction between the ZnONT and HU, showing that ZnONT can be used for the smart drug delivery of HU. Overall, the findings suggest that ZnONT could be used as an efficient drug-delivery system for the HU drug to treat various types of cancer.

METHODS

In this work we used B3LYP-gCP-D3 functional and the basis set LANL2DZ on the transition metal (Zn) and the basis set cc-pVDZ on the others. GAMESS software program was employed for performing the calculations. we performed analyses, including charge transport, molecular electrostatic potential surface (MEP), energetic, electronic, natural bond orbitals (NBOs), and structural optimizations.

Management of Brain Cancer and Neurodegenerative Disorders with Polymer-Based Nanoparticles as a Biocompatible Platform

The blood-brain barrier (BBB) serves as a protective barrier for the central nervous system (CNS) against drugs that enter the bloodstream. The BBB is a key clinical barrier in the treatment of CNS illnesses because it restricts drug entry into the brain. To bypass this barrier and release relevant drugs into the brain matrix, nanotechnology-based delivery systems have been developed. Given the unstable nature of NPs, an appropriate amount of a biocompatible polymer coating on NPs is thought to have a key role in reducing cellular cytotoxicity while also boosting stability. Human serum albumin (HSA), poly (lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA), Polylactide (PLA), poly (alkyl cyanoacrylate) (PACA), gelatin, and chitosan are only a few of the significant polymers mentioned. In this review article, we categorized polymer-coated nanoparticles from basic to complex drug delivery systems and discussed their application as novel drug carriers to the brain.

Fabrication of chitosan-gelatin films incorporated with thymol-loaded alginate microparticles for controlled drug delivery, antibacterial activity and wound healing: In-vitro and in-vivo studies

Previously, studies have demonstrated the unique characteristics of chitosan-gelatin films as wound dressings applications. However, their application has been limited due to their inadequacy of antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory characteristics. To improve the intended multifunctional characteristics of chitosan-gelatin film, in this study, we designed a novel composite film with the capability of controlled and prolonged release of thymol as a natural antioxidant and antimicrobial drug. Here, thymol-loaded ALG MPs (Thymol-ALG MPs) were prepared by electrospraying method and incorporated into the chitosan-gelatin film. The composite wound dressings of Thymol-ALG MPs incorporated in chitosan-gelatin film (CS-GEL/Thymol-ALG MPs) were characterized by in vitro and in vivo evaluations. The Thymol-ALG MPs demonstrated spherical and uniform morphology, with high encapsulation efficiency (88.9 ± 1.1 %). The CS-GEL/Thymol-ALG MPs exhibited high antibacterial activity against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria and no cytotoxicity for the L929 fibroblast cells. The release trend of thymol from CS-GEL/Thymol-ALG MPs and Thymol-ALG MPs followed a pseudo-Fickian diffusion mechanism. This wound dressing effectively accelerates the wound healing process at rats' full-thickness skin excisions. Also, the histological analysis demonstrated that the CS-GEL/Thymol-ALG MPs could significantly enhance epithelialization, collagen deposition, and induce skin regeneration. The present antibacterial composite film has promising characteristics for wound dressings applications.

Effects of coiling embolism on blood hemodynamic of the MCA aneurysm: a numerical study

One of common endovascular technique for treatment of MCA aneurysm is using coiling gel for limiting of blood stream. In this work, computational fluid dynamic is used for the simulation of the blood hemodynamic inside MCA in existence of coiling gel. This work has tried to visualize the impacts of blood characteristics i.e. hematocrit as a protein related factor on efficiency of coiling fiber inside the aneurysm. Tufts of polyester fibers may be attached to the coil to support thrombosis and platelet aggregation. Blood rheology analysis is done by solving RANS equations and it is assumed that blood stream is non-Newtonian with fluid-solid interaction. OSI and WSS are compared on sac surface area for different stages of blood cycle. Achieved results confirm that the coiling gel substantially decreases the blood circulation inside the aneurysm sac. It is also found that the influence of blood hematocrit decreases when the MCA aneurysm is filled by the coiling gel.

The multifaced role and therapeutic regulation of autophagy in ovarian cancer

Ovarian cancer (OC) is one of the tumors that occurs most frequently in women. Autophagy is involved in cell homeostasis, biomolecule recycling, and survival, making it a potential target for anti-tumor drugs. It is worth noting that growing evidence reveals a close link between autophagy and OC. In the context of OC, autophagy demonstrates activity as both a tumor suppressor and a tumor promoter, depending on the context. Autophagy's exact function in OC is greatly reliant on the tumor microenvironment (TME) and other conditions, such as hypoxia, nutritional deficiency, chemotherapy, and so on. However, what can be concluded from different studies is that autophagy-related signaling pathways, especially PI3K/AKT/mTOR axis, increase in advanced stages and malignant phenotype of the disease reduces autophagy and ultimately leads to tumor progression. This study sought to present a thorough understanding of the role of autophagy-related signaling pathways in OC and existing therapies targeting these signaling pathways.

Recent Advances in Nanotechnology for the Management of Klebsiella pneumoniae-Related Infections

Klebsiella pneumoniae is an important human pathogen that causes diseases such as urinary tract infections, pneumonia, bloodstream infections, bacteremia, and sepsis. The rise of multidrug-resistant strains has severely limited the available treatments for K. pneumoniae infections. On the other hand, K. pneumoniae activity (and related infections) urgently requires improved management strategies. A growing number of medical applications are using nanotechnology, which uses materials with atomic or molecular dimensions, to diagnose, eliminate, or reduce the activity of different infections. In this review, we start with the traditional treatment and detection method for K. pneumoniae and then concentrate on selected studies (2015-2022) that investigated the application of nanoparticles separately and in combination with other techniques against K. pneumoniae.

Injectable PTHF-based thermogelling polyurethane implants for long-term intraocular application

BACKGROUND

Hydrogels show great potential to be used for intraocular applications due to their high-water content and similarity to the native vitreous. Injectable thermosensitive hydrogels through a small-bore needle can be used as a delivery system for drugs or a tamponading substitute to treat posterior eye diseases with clear clinical potential. However, none of the currently available thermosensitive hydrogels can provide intraocular support for up to 3 months or more.

METHOD

In this study, an injectable polytetrahydrofuran (PTHF)-based thermosensitive hydrogel was synthesized by polyurethane reaction. We examined the injectability, rheological properties, microstructure, cytotoxicity, and in vivo compatibility and stability of the hydrogels in rabbit eyes.

RESULTS

We found that the PTHF block type and PTHF component ratio could modulate thermogelation properties of the polyurethane polymers. The PTHF-based hydrogel implants retained normal retinal structure and function. Incorporating bioinert PTHF generated highly biocompatible and more stable thermogels in the vitreous cavity, with gel networks and the presence of polymer still observed after 3 months when other thermogels would have been completely cleared. Moreover, despite lacking hydrolytically cleavable linkages, the polymers could be most naturally removed from the native vitreous by bio-erosion without additional surgical interventions.

CONCLUSION

Our findings suggest the potential of incorporating hydrophobic bioinert blocks to enhance the in vivo stability of supramolecularly associated hydrogels for long-term intraocular applications.

A study on the adsorption property and mechanism of β-cyclodextrin/polyvinyl alcohol/polyacrylic acid hydrogel for ciprofloxacin

Polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), acrylic acid (AA), and β-cyclodextrin (β-CD) were used as monomers, and ammonium persulfate was used as an initiator. Orthogonal tests were optimized the experimental condition, and aqueous polymerization was used to prepare poly-β-cyclodextrin/polyvinyl alcohol/polyacrylic acid (β-CD/PVA/PAA) hydrogel. The samples were characterized by FT-IR (Fourier transform infrared), SEM (Scanning electron microscopy), and XRD (X-ray diffraction). β-CD/PVA/PAA hydrogel was analyzed, which influenced external environmental factors on the β-CD/PVA/PAA hydrogel adsorption performance, and the kinetic behavior of β-CD/PVA/PAA hydrogel on ciprofloxacin (CIP) adsorption was explored. The results concluded that the prepared β-CD/PVA/PAA hydrogel has a well-defined three-dimensional network structure. The decrease in the pH of the CIP solution and the adsorption temperature reduces the adsorption reaction of β-CD/PVA/PAA hydrogel on CIP. The kinetics of CIP adsorption by β-CD/PVA/PAA hydrogel confirmed the pseudo-second-order kinetic model (R 2 > 0.997), the maximum equilibrium adsorption amounts is 372.12 mg/g, the removal rate reaches 74.42%. The adsorption process was mainly chemisorption, the adsorption isotherm fits the Freundlich adsorption isotherm model (R 2 > 0.946), and the adsorption process was heterogeneous with multi-molecular layer adsorption. The adsorption process inclined more toward the adsorption of inhomogeneous multi-molecular layers. The β-CD/PVA/PAA hydrogel retained 80% adsorption properties after three adsorption-desorption under optimal conditions.

Amin H, F. Alanazi S, Turki Jalil A, Khatami M, Mahmood Saleh M. Trace elements-based Auroshell gold@hematite nanostructure: Green synthesis and their hyperthermia therapy

Hyperthermia is an additional treatment method to radiation therapy/chemotherapy, which increases the survival rate of patients without side effects. Nowadays, Auroshell nanoparticles have attracted much attention due to their precise control over heat use for medical purposes. In this research, iron/gold Auroshell nanoparticles were synthesised using green nanotechnology approach. Auroshell gold@hematite nanoparticles were synthesised and characterised with rosemary extract in one step and the green synthesised nanoparticles were characterised by X-ray powder diffraction, SEM, high-resolution transmission electron microscopy, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy analysis. Cytotoxicity of Auroshell iron@gold nanoparticles against normal HUVEC cells and glioblastoma cancer cells was evaluated by 2,5-diphenyl-2H-tetrazolium bromide method, water bath hyperthermia, and combined method of water bath hyperthermia and nano-therapy. Auroshell gold@hematite nanoparticles with minimal toxicity are safe against normal cells. The gold shell around the magnetic core of magnetite caused the environmental and cellular biocompatibility of these Auroshell nanoparticles. These magnetic nanoparticles with targeted control and transfer to the tumour tissue led to uniform heating of malignant tumours as the most efficient therapeutic agent.

Degradation of Polymer-Drug Conjugate Nanoparticles Based on Lactic and Itaconic Acid

Tuberculosis (TB) is still a significant threat to human health. A promising solution is engineering nanoparticulate drug carriers to deliver anti-TB molecules. Itaconic acid (ITA) potentially has anti-TB activity; however, its incorporation in nanoparticles (NP) is challenging. Here we show an approach for preparing polymer-ITA conjugate NPs and a methodology for investigating the NP degradation and ITA release mechanism. The conjugate was synthesized by the two-directional growing of polylactic acid (PLA) chains, followed by capping their extremities with ITA. The poly(lactate)-itaconate PLA-ITA was then used to formulate NPs. The degradation and drug release processes of the polymer conjugate NPs were studied qualitatively and quantitatively. The molecular structures of released species were characterized by using liquid NMR spectroscopy and mass spectrometry. We discovered a complex NP hydrolysis process forming diverse oligomers, as well as monomeric lactic acid (LA) and drug ITA. The slow degradation process led to a low release of free drugs, although raising the pH from 5.3 to 7.4 induced a slight increase in the amounts of released products. TEM images showed that bulk erosion is likely to play the primary role in the degradation of PLA-ITA NPs. The overall results and methodology can be of interest for understanding the mechanisms of NP degradation and drug release of this new polymer-drug conjugate system.

The Role of Interferon (IFN)-γ in Extravillous Trophoblast Cell (EVT) Invasion and Preeclampsia Progression

The involvement of the immune system in pregnancy is a controversial subject. The functions of T helper (Th) 1 and Th2 cells have been proposed, that Th1 cytokines promoting allograft rejection may impair pregnancy, whereas Th2-type cytokines suppressing Th1 responses improve allograft tolerance and hence embryonic survival. Maternal-fetal tolerance begins in the uterus; therefore, optimal adaptation to the fetus is the result of a complex interference. The invasion of extravillous trophoblast cells (EVTs) into the decidua and the inner third of the myometrium is essential for a healthy pregnancy. The mechanisms that influence trophoblast invasion are unknown; however, cytokines from uterine natural killer (uNK) cells, NKT cells, macrophages, and T cells appear to be involved. All these cells are major sources of interferon gamma (IFN-γ). Recent studies have shown that IFN-γ can inhibit EVT invasion via a mechanism dependent on an increase in EVT apoptosis and a decrease in matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs). Regarding controversies in this context, this study aimed to comprehensively review the role of IFN-γ and IFN-γ-producing cells in EVT invasion, successful pregnancy, and preeclampsia.

Cluster-Dominated Electrochemiluminescence of Tertiary Amines in Polyethyleneimine Nanoparticles: Mechanism Insights and Sensing Application

Designing and screening highly efficient and cost-effective luminophores have always been a challenge to develop sensitive electrochemiluminescence (ECL) biosensors. Herein, polyethyleneimine nanoparticles (PEI NPs), a kind of nonconjugated polymer (NCP) NPs with tertiary amine clusters, were developed as an ECL luminophore. Specifically, PEI NPs were synthesized by a one-step hydrothermal method using PEI and formaldehyde. The properties of PEI NPs were investigated in detail using photochemical and electrochemical techniques. The results showed cluster-dominated luminescence of tertiary amines in PEI NPs via "through-space conjugation". This non-negligible ECL performance (at 631 nm) was also verified by the initiated reduction-oxidation process. With persulfate as a coreactant, PEI NPs acted as both the luminophore and coreaction accelerator to enhance the ECL intensity remarkably, which was eightfold higher than that of isolated PEI. Moreover, choosing dopamine as the model target, a highly sensitive "signal off" ternary ECL sensor was constructed utilizing PEI NPs as the luminophore. Dopamine could be oxidized to benzoquinone at the sensing interface, quenching the signal via ECL energy transfer. Free from any signal amplification, the proposed sensor achieved a low detection limit (4.3 nM) for target monitoring with good selectivity and stability. This strategy not only provides a unique perspective for designing novel efficient and facile ECL luminophores of tertiary amines but also broadens the biological application of NCP NPs.

Toxicity evaluation induced by single and 28-days repeated exposure of withametelin and daturaolone in Sprague Dawley rats

Safe preclinical dose determination is predictive of human toxicity and can have a profound impact on the overall progress of the compound in early drug discovery process. In this respect, current study sought to investigate for the first time the acute and subacute oral toxicity of two pharmacologically active natural compounds i.e., withametelin and daturaolone in Sprague Dawley rats following OECD guideline 420 and 407, respectively. As per acute toxicity studies, withametelin and daturaolone were characterized as Globally Harmonized System (GHS) category 4 and 5 compounds, respectively. Sub-acute daily dose of withametelin was 5, 2.5, and 1.25 mg/kg but, for daturaolone, it was 10, 5, and 2.5 mg/kg. High dose (5 and 2.5 mg/kg) withametelin groups showed dose dependent changes in the general, hematological, biochemical and histopathological parameters in both sexes, the most prominent being hyperthyroidism while no toxicity was observed at lower doses (1.25 and 0.75 mg/kg), No Observable Adverse Effect Level (NOAEL) being 1.25 mg/kg. Daturaolone was comparatively safer and showed dose dependent significant changes in hepatic enzyme (Alanine Transaminase), bilirubin, creatinine, and glucose levels while histological changes in testes were also observed. Lower doses (5, 2.5, and 1.25 mg/kg) of daturaolone showed no significant toxic effects and 5 mg/kg was declared as its NOAEL. Depending upon our findings, starting effective oral dose levels of 1.25 mg/kg/day for withametelin and 5 mg/kg/day for daturaolone are proposed for repeated dose (up to 28 days) preclinical pharmacological evaluation models. Long term studies with more behavioral, biochemical, histopathological and hormonal parameters are proposed to strengthen the findings.

An intelligent DNA nanorobot for detection of MiRNAs cancer biomarkers using molecular programming to fabricate a logic-responsive hybrid nanostructure

Herein, we designed a DNA framework-based intelligent nanorobot using toehold-mediated strand displacement reaction-based molecular programming and logic gate operation for the selective and synchronous detection of miR21 and miR125b, which are known as significant cancer biomarkers. Moreover, to investigate the applicability of our design, DNA nanorobots were implemented as capping agents onto the pores of MSNs. These agents can develop a logic-responsive hybrid nanostructure capable of specific drug release in the presence of both targets. The prosperous synthesis steps were verified by FTIR, XRD, BET, UV-visible, FESEM-EDX mapping, and HRTEM analyses. Finally, the proper release of the drug in the presence of both target microRNAs was studied. This Hybrid DNA Nanostructure was designed with the possibility to respond to any target oligonucleotides with 22 nucleotides length.

Meta-Decomposition of Efficacy, Incidence of Pressure Ulcer, and Prognosis of Stroke Sufferers after Applying Evidence-Based Ministration

In order to meta-analyze the effect of evidence-based ministration on the efficacy, incidence of pressure ulcers and prognosis of stroke are used. Literature retrieval is carried out in Wanfang Medicine, PubMed database, biomedical literature, and other medical databases through medical data and computers, focusing on the efficacy, pressure ulcer incidence, and prognosis of stroke sufferers after applying evidence-based ministration. For the relevant medical information literature on the effect, RevMan 5.2 software is used for meta-decomposition. For stroke sufferers, the application of evidence-based ministration intervention can notoriously enhance the clinical therapy effect of stroke sufferers, reduce the incidence of clinical pressure ulcers, and enhance the prognosis and quality of life of sufferers.

Pharmacological Basis of Rumex hastatus D. Don in Gastrointestinal Diseases with Focusing Effects on H+/K+-ATPase, Calcium Channels Inhibition and PDE Mediated Signaling: Toxicological Evaluation on Vital Organs

This present study aimed to delineate Rumex hastatus D. Don crude extract (Rh.Cr), n-Hexane, ethyl acetate, aqueous fractions (Rh.n-Hex, Rh.ETAC, Rh.Aq) and rutin for antidiarrheal, antisecretory effects, anti-spasmodic, gastrointestinal transient time, anti H. pylori, antiulcer effects, and toxicology. The preliminary phytochemical analysis of Rumex hastatus showed different phytoconstituents and shows different peaks in GC-MC chromatogram. Rumex hastatus crude extract (Rh.Cr), fractions, and rutin attributed dose-dependent (50–300 mg/kg) protection (0–100%) against castor oil-induced diarrhea and dose-dependently inhibited intestinal fluid secretions in mice. They decreased the distance traversed by charcoal in the gastrointestinal transit model in rats. In rabbit jejunum preparations, Rh.Cr and Rh.ETAC caused a concentration-dependent relaxation of both spontaneous and K+ (80 mM)-induced contractions at a similar concentration range, whereas Rh.n-Hex, rutin, and verapamil were relatively potent against K+-induced contractions and shifted the Ca2+ concentration–response curves (CRCs) to the right, Rh.Cr (0.3–1 mg/mL) and Rh.ETAC (0.1–0.3 mg/mL) shifted the isoprenaline-induced inhibitory CRCs to the left. Rh.n-Hex, Rh.ETAC and rutin showed anti-H. pylori effect, also shows an inhibitory effect against H+/K+-ATPase. Rumex hastatus showed gastroprotective and antioxidant effects. Histopathological evaluation showed improvement in cellular architecture and a decrease in the expression of inflammatory markers such as, cyclooxygenase (COX-2), tumor necrosis factor (TN,F-α) and phosphorylated nuclear factor kappa B (p-NFƙB), validated through immunohistochemistry and ELISA techniques. In RT-PCR it decreases H+/K+-ATPase mRNA levels. Rumex hastatus was found to be safe to consume up to a dose of 2000 mg/kg in a comprehensive toxicity profile. Docking studies revealed that rutin against H+/K+-ATPase pump and voltage-gated L-type calcium channel showed E-values of −8.7 and −9.4 Kcal/mol, respectively. MD simulations Molecular Mechanics Poisson Boltzmann surface area and molecular mechanics Generalized Born surface area (MMPBSA/GBSA) findings are consistent with the in-vitro, in-vivo and docking results.

Analysis of the Relationship between Scleritis and T Cell Activation in Patients with Hepatocellular Carcinoma Treated with PD-1 Carrelizumab

In order to explore the function of inhibiting the immune effect, the relationship between programmed death receptor 1 (PD-1) carrelizumab in the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma-induced scleritis and T cell activation is investigated. A total of 120 patients with primary liver cancer treated in the department of oncology of our hospital from July 2020 to January 2022 are selected and treated with carrelizumab. According to the occurrence of PD-1 carrelizumab treatment, the patients are divided into the scleritis group and nonscleritis group. The levels of T cells, PD-1, PD-L1 proteins, and serum inflammatory factors at different time points are compared. The experimental results show that the occurrence of scleritis after liver cancer treatment with PD-1 carrelizumab is closely associated with Treg cells, the percentage of Th17 cells, the expression of PD-1, PD-L1 proteins, and inflammatory factors. It is clearly evident that PD-1 carrelizumab can increase the risk of scleritis by affecting T cell activation.

Analysis of the Relationship between the Expression Level of TTR and APOH and Prognosis in Patients with Colorectal Cancer Metastasis Based on Bioinformatics

The expression of TTR and apolipoprotein H (APOH) genes and their relationship with prognosis in patients with colorectal cancer (CRC) metastasis by using bioinformatics analysis techniques are explored. The expression profiles of related genes in patients with CRC metastasis are retrieved from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. The core genes transthyretin (TTR) and APOH are screened by constructing protein-protein interaction (PPI) network, and the corresponding patient data of 327 patients are extracted and included in the metastasis group. The TTR and APOH genes of 300 patients without CRC metastasis are screened and included in the control group. The relationship between the expression levels of TTR and APOH and the clinicopathological parameters of patients with CRC metastasis is analyzed. Kaplan-Meier survival curve is drawn to observe the influence of overexpression and low expression of TTR and APOH on the prognosis and survival of patients in the metastatic group. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve is drawn to observe the prognostic efficacy of combined TTR and APOH detection in patients with CRC metastasis. The experimental results show that bioassay can confirm the close relationship between TTR, APOH, and patients with CRC metastasis. Regular detection of serum TTR and APOH expression can effectively assess the patient's condition and take measures to improve the prognosis of the patients.

Mahmoud E, Elansary HO, Sannaningaiah D. Effect of Biofunctional Green Synthesized MgO-Nanoparticles on Oxidative-Stress-Induced Tissue Damage and Thrombosis

The present study describes the green biofunctional synthesis of magnesium oxide (MgO) nanoparticles using the aqueous Tarenna asiatica fruit extract. The characterization of Tarenna asiatica fruit extract MgO nanoparticles (TAFEMgO NPs) was achieved by X-ray powder diffraction, UV-Vis spectroscopy, FTIR, TEM, SEM, and energy-dispersive X-ray diffraction. TAFEMgO NPs scavenged the DPPH free radicals with an IC50 value of 55.95 μg/μL, and it was highly significant compared to the standard. To authenticate the observed antioxidant potential of TAFEMgO NPs, oxidative stress was induced in red blood cells (RBC) using sodium nitrite (NaNO₂). Interestingly, TAFEMgO NPs ameliorated the RBC damage from oxidative stress by significantly restoring the stress parameters, such as the protein carbonyl content (PCC), lipid peroxidation (LPO), total thiol (TT), super-oxide dismutase (SOD), and catalase (CAT). Furthermore, oxidative stress was induced in-vivo in Sprague Dawley female rats using diclofenac (DFC). TAFEMgO NPs normalized the stress parameters in-vivo and minimized the oxidative damage in tissues. Most importantly, TAFEMgO NPs restored the function and architecture of the damaged livers, kidneys, and small intestines by regulating biochemical parameters. TAFEMgO NPs exhibited an anticoagulant effect by increasing the clotting time from 193 s in the control to 885 s in the platelet rich plasma. TAFEMgO NPs prolonged the formation of the clot process in the activated partial thromboplastin time and the prothrombin time, suggest the effective involvement in both intrinsic and extrinsic clotting pathways of the blood coagulation cascade. TAFEMgO NPs inhibited adenosine di-phosphate (ADP)-induced platelet aggregation. TAFEMgO NPs did not show hemolytic, hemorrhagic, and edema-inducing properties at the tested concentration of 100 mg/kgbody weight, suggesting its non-toxic property. In conclusion, TAFEMgO NPs mitigates the sodium nitrite (NaNO₂)- and diclofenac (DFC)-induced stress due to oxidative damage in both in vitro and in vivo experimental models.

Biomaterials and advanced technologies for the evaluation and treatment of ovarian aging

Ovarian aging is characterized by a progressive decline in ovarian function. With the increase in life expectancy worldwide, ovarian aging has gradually become a key health problem among women. Over the years, various strategies have been developed to preserve fertility in women, while there are currently no clinical treatments to delay ovarian aging. Recently, advances in biomaterials and technologies, such as three-dimensional (3D) printing and microfluidics for the encapsulation of follicles and nanoparticles as delivery systems for drugs, have shown potential to be translational strategies for ovarian aging. This review introduces the research progress on the mechanisms underlying ovarian aging, and summarizes the current state of biomaterials in the evaluation and treatment of ovarian aging, including safety, potential applications, future directions and difficulties in translation.

Influence of Oxytocin Usage and Dose Difference During Delivery on Pregnancy Outcome of VBAC Pregnant Women

In order to explore the influence of oxytocin usage and dose difference during delivery on the pregnancy outcome of VBAC pregnant women, the clinical data of 166 VBAC pregnant women from January 2017 to March 2020 are retrospectively analyzed. All women are divided into different groups according to the usage of oxytocin during delivery and the oxytocin dose difference. Binary logistic regression is used to analyze the factors affecting the pregnancy outcome of pregnant women with VBAC. The gestational weeks and the thickness of the lower uterine segment in the oxytocin group are significantly more than those in the nonoxytocin group (P < 0.05). The time of the first stage of labor, second stage of labor, and total stage of labor in the oxytocin group are significantly longer than the nonoxytocin group (P < 0.05). The proportion of entering NICU in the oxytocin group is significantly lower than the nonoxytocin group (P < 0.05). There is no significant difference in labor duration and pregnancy outcome between low-dose and medium-dose oxytocin groups. Binary logistic regression analysis shows that prenatal BMI <30 kg/cm², gestational age ≤40 weeks, history of vaginal delivery, uterine expansion, and admission to hospital are the influencing factors for pregnancy success of pregnant women with VBAC. The usage of oxytocin in VBAC pregnant women during delivery may increase the duration of labor. For those with poor uterine contraction, oxytocin can be increased to 4∼18 mU/min to speed up the labor process, without increasing the risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes.

A Bibliometric Analysis for Global Trends and Full View of the Autophagy in Ischemic Stroke from 2006 to 2022

Autophagy plays a key role in ischemic stroke, but its mechanism remains to be elucidated. In order to explore the effect of autophagy on ischemic stroke, bibliometric analysis and view tools are used to identify the directions of the global research trends and construct full view of the autophagy in ischemic stroke from 2006 to 2022. The research hotspots of autophagy related to ischemic stroke are visually analyzed and generated various visual maps to display publications, authors, sources, countries, organizations, and keywords. By bibliometric analysis, it can be seen that the investigations of autophagy in ischemic stroke is focused on both brain injury and neuroprotection. The impact of a variety of inflammatory factors and signaling pathways on autophagy following an ischemic stroke is also studied. Autophagy plays an important role in all phases of ischemic stroke. It is of great significance to guide the development of treatment plans for ischemic stroke.

Facile synthesis of Cu NPs@Fe3O4-lignosulfonate: Study of catalytic and antibacterial/antioxidant activities

Environmental pollution is one of the important concerns for human health. There are different types of pollutants and techniques to eliminate them from the environment. We hereby report an efficient method for the remediation of environmental contaminants through the catalytic reduction of the selected pollutants. A green method has been developed for the immobilization of copper nanoparticles on magnetic lignosulfonate (Cu NPs@Fe₃O₄-LS) using the aqueous extract of Filago arvensis L. as a non-toxic reducing and stabilizing agent. The characterization of the prepared Cu NPs@Fe₃O₄-LS was achieved by vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), high resolution TEM (HRTEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning TEM (STEM), thermogravimetry-differential thermal analysis (TG/DTA), fast Fourier transform (FFT), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), and X-ray photoelectron (XPS) analyses. The synthesized Cu NPs@Fe₃O₄-LS was applied as a magnetic and green catalyst in the reduction of Congo Red (CR), 4-nitrophenol (4-NP), and methylene blue (MB). The progress of the reduction reactions was monitored by UV-Vis spectroscopy. Finally, the biological properties of the Cu NPs@Fe₃O₄-LS were investigated. The prepared catalyst demonstrated excellent catalytic efficiency in the reduction of CR, 4-NP, and MB in the presence of sodium borohydride (NaBH₄) as the reducing agent. The appropriate magnetism of Cu NPs@Fe₃O₄-LS made its recovery very simple. The advantages of this process include a simple reaction set-up, high and catalytic antibacterial/antioxidant activities, short reaction time, environmentally friendliness, high stability, and easy separation of the catalyst. In addition, the prepared Cu NPs@Fe₃O₄-LS could be reused for four cycles with no significant decline in performance.