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Influenza viruses remain a major global public health concern, causing significant morbidity and mortality annually despite widespread vaccination efforts. The limitations of current seasonal vaccines, including strain-specific efficacy and manufacturing delays, have accelerated the development of next-generation candidates aiming for universal protection. This review comprehensively summarizes the recent progress in universal influenza vaccine research. We first outline the key conserved antigenic targets, such as the hemagglutinin (HA) stem, neuraminidase (NA), and matrix proteins (M2e, NP, and M1), which are crucial for eliciting broad cross-reactive immunity. We then delve into advanced antigen design strategies, including immunofocusing, multi-antigen combinations, computationally optimized broadly reactive antigens (COBRA), and nanoparticle-based platforms. Furthermore, we evaluate evolving vaccine delivery systems, from traditional inactivated and live-attenuated vaccines to modern mRNA and viral vector platforms, alongside the critical role of novel adjuvants in enhancing immune responses. The convergence of these disciplines—structural biology, computational design, and nanotechnology—is driving the field toward a transformative goal. We conclude that the successful development of a universal influenza vaccine will likely depend on the strategic integration of these innovative approaches to overcome existing immunological and logistical challenges, ultimately providing durable and broad-spectrum protection against diverse influenza virus strains. Full article

Incorporating Cu into gold-based catalysts effectively reduced nanoparticle sintering and free carbonate accumulation, promoting long-term preservation of catalytic surface area over time. This study explores the catalytic activity of monometallic Au and bimetallic AuCu catalysts with varying Au:Cu atomic ratios (1:0.5, 1:1, and 1:1.5) that were synthesized on $\gamma$-Al${}_2$O${}_3$ via sequential deposition–precipitation with urea. The catalysts were pretreated in either air or H${}_2$ and evaluated for CO oxidation activity and stability. A comprehensive characterization (EDS, BET, TEM, H${}_2$-TPR, O${}_2$-TPO, XPS, DRIFTS, and UV–Vis) was used to investigate particle size, metal oxidation states, and redox properties. Among all materials, the AuCu 1:1 catalyst exhibited the highest low-temperature CO conversion (>90% at 0 ${}^{\circ }$C) and improved stability during 24 h tests, reflecting minimal nanoparticle sintering as confirmed by TEM analysis. In situ DRIFTS revealed that the presence of Cu${}^{+}$ and Cu${}^{2+}$ minimizes the accumulation of free carbonates (one of the main deactivation pathways in Au/$\gamma$-Al${}_2$O${}_3$) while promoting the formation of reactive intermediates that facilitate CO${}_2$ production. Notably, air pretreatment at moderate temperature proved as effective as H${}_2$ pretreatment in activating both monometallic and bimetallic catalysts. These findings highlight the role of Cu as a structural and electronic promoter of gold, offering practical guidelines for designing durable, cost-effective catalysts for low-temperature CO oxidation on non-reducible supports. Full article

Sensing represents one of the most rapidly developing areas of modern life sciences, spreading from the detection of pathogenic microorganisms in living systems, food, and beverages to hazardous substances in liquid and gaseous environments. However, the development of efficient and low-cost multimodal sensors with easy-to-read functionality is still very challenging. In this paper, stable aqueous colloidal suspensions (ζ-potential was between −30 and −40 mV) of ultrasmall (~7 nm) plasmonic Si-Au and SiC-Au nanocomposites were formed. Two variants of pulsed laser ablation in liquids (PLAL)—direct ablation and laser co-fragmentation—were used for this purpose. The co-fragmentation approach led to a considerable decrease in hydrodynamic diameter (~78 nm) and bandgap widening to approximately 1.6 eV. All plasmonic nanocomposites exhibited efficient multi-band blue emission peaking at ~430 nm upon Xe lamp excitation. Co-fragmentation route considerably (~1 order of magnitude) increased the PL efficiency of the nanocomposites in comparison with the laser-ablated ones, accompanied by a negligible amount of dangling bonds. These silicon-based nanostructures significantly affected the optical response of rhodamine 6G, depending on the synthesis route. In particular, directly ablated nanoparticles revealed a stronger influence on the optical response of dye molecules. The observed findings suggest using such types of semiconductor-plasmonic nanocomposites for multimodal plasmonic and colorimetric sensing integrated with luminescent detection capability. Full article

Current trends in intelligent hydrogels design for tissue engineering demand multifunctional biomaterials that respond to external stimuli, while maintaining adhesion, controlled degradation, and cytocompatibility. The present work describes the synthesis and characterization of a novel, intelligent and synergistic hydrogel for promoting osteoblastic growth and regeneration. The hydrogel comprises a complex matrix blend of natural biodegradable polymers, vitamins (A, K2, D3, and E), and bioactive components such as zinc phosphate nanoparticles and manganese-doped hydroxyapatite to improve osteoblastic functionality. The hydrogel proved to have physicochemical properties for recovery and self-healing, highlighting its potential application as an auxiliary in bone rehabilitation. Key parameters such as rheological behavior, moisture content, water absorption, solubility, swelling, biodegradability, and responsiveness to temperature and pH variations were thoroughly evaluated. Furthermore, its adhesion to different surfaces and biocompatibility were confirmed. Skin contact test revealed no inflammatory, allergic, or secondary effects, indicating its safety for medical applications. Importantly, the hydrogel showed high biocompatibility with no cytotoxicity signs, favoring cell migration and highlighting its potential for applications in regenerative medicine. Full article

Background: Cerium oxide nanoparticles (nanoceria) have attracted growing attention as promising anticancer agents due to their unique redox properties. Their selective cytotoxicity in cancer cells is thought to be mediated primarily through disruption of redox homeostasis. However, the precise molecular mechanisms underlying their action in breast cancer remain unclear. To address this gap, the present study investigates the dose-dependent cytotoxic, oxidative, and mitochondrial effects of nanoceria in MCF7 breast cancer cells, with mechanistic insights gained through gene expression and proteomic analyses. Methods: MCF7 breast cancer cells were treated with nanoceria (200 µg/mL and 400 µg/mL). Cytotoxicity, ROS levels, and mitochondrial membrane potential were assessed via MTT, DCFDA staining, and MitoTracker, respectively. Gene expression and label-free LC-MS/MS proteomics were used to evaluate molecular and pathway-level changes. Results: Nanoceria exhibited dose-dependent cytotoxicity, significantly reducing MCF7 cell viability to 61 ± 1.5% (p < 0.01) and 57 ± 1.8% (p < 0.01) at 200 µg/mL and 400 µg/mL, respectively, compared with the control. ROS levels increased 1.4-fold (p < 0.01) and 1.5-fold (p < 0.0001), accompanied by a decreased mitochondrial membrane potential by 11% (p < 0.01) and 25% (p < 0.05), indicating oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction. Gene expression analysis supported activation of apoptotic pathways demonstrated by upregulation of BNIP3, the BAX/BCL-2 ratio (p < 0.05), and disruption of mitochondrial homeostasis. Proteomic profiling revealed dose-specific alterations in >150 proteins (fold change ≥ 1.5, p < 0.05) related to redox balance, mitochondrial function, apoptosis, and cell cycle regulation. Conclusions: Nanoceria induces dose-dependent oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction in MCF7 breast cancer cells, triggering apoptotic pathways and widespread alterations in protein expression. These results offer valuable mechanistic insights into nanoceria’s selective anticancer activity and highlight its potential as a promising therapeutic agent for breast cancer. Full article

Docetaxel (DTX)-loaded polymeric nanoparticles composed of Eudragit RL and RS 100 were developed by solvent evaporation using D-α-tocopheryl polyethene glycol 1000 succinate as an emulsifier and optimised by Central Composite Design. The effects of homogenisation and sonication times on entrapment efficiency (%EE) and drug release (%DR) were statistically analysed across nine batches. Particle size (PS) ranged from 302 ± 1.0 to 502 ± 2.0 nm, and zeta potential (ZP) from 25.8 ± 2.5 to 42.9 ± 1.7 mV. %EE and %DR (pH 1.2 for 2 h, then pH 7.4 for 22 h, 40 mL medium at 37 ± 0.5 °C) ranged from 69.32 ± 3.77 to 92.71 ± 0.16% and 19.24 ± 3.03 to 49.17 ± 1.98%, respectively. Optimised DTX nanoparticles (DNPs) showed EE of 78.18 ± 0.56%, DR of 46.21 ± 1.41% at 24 h, PS of 357.9 ± 2.4 nm, and ZP of 42.9 ± 3.7 mV. Scanning electron microscopy revealed ~300 nm cuboidal particles with smooth surfaces. X-Ray Diffraction and Differential Scanning Colorimetry confirmed reduced drug crystallinity in DNPs. In vitro haemolysis assays showed ~11.5-fold lower haemolytic potential (p < 0.0001) versus DTX, confirming improved safety. Fluorescence microscopy indicated enhanced cellular uptake of DNPs in MDA-MB-231 cells, while cytotoxicity assays of DNPs showed a lower IC₅₀ (39.52 µM) compared to DTX (60.81 µM), demonstrating superior anticancer efficacy. Overall, DNPs represent a promising oral chemotherapy platform for breast cancer management. Full article

To enhance the anti-corrosion performance of storage tanks, Ni–SiC composites were successfully fabricated on the surface of Q345 steel substrate via the ultrasonic electrodeposition technique. The influence of ultrasonic power on the surface morphology, element content, phase structure, and anti-corrosion performance of Ni–SiC composites were explored utilizing a scanning electron microscope (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), and an electrochemical workstation, respectively. SEM images showed that the Ni–SiC composites obtained at 120 W had a flat, dense surface morphology, with a uniform distribution of SiC nanoparticles (NPs) and a refined size of nickel grains. Meanwhile, the Si content (7.3 wt.%) of Ni–SiC composites prepared at 120 W was obviously higher than those obtained at 0 W (4.8 wt.%) and 60 W (6.1 wt.%). The thicknesses and adhesion force of Ni–SiC composites manufactured at 120 W were the largest of 103.5 μm and 51.2 N, respectively. XRD patterns presented that the diffraction peaks intensity and width of Ni–SiC composites manufactured at 120 W were lower and broader than that of Ni–SiC composites manufactured at 0 W and 60 W. A corrosion test illustrated that the Ni–SiC composites prepared at 120 W had the lowest corrosion current of 3.5 × 10⁻³ mA/cm², the lowest corrosive weight loss (4.2 mg) and corrosion rate (0.06 mg/h), while the corrosion potential was the highest of −0.41 V, which demonstrated the best anti-corrosion performance. In addition, the co-deposition mechanism of SiC NPs and Ni²⁺ ions was also analyzed. Full article

Zeolites are becoming potentially important multifunctional fillers in dentistry, providing a distinctive blend of mechanical reinforcement, remineralization, and antimicrobial properties. Their crystalline aluminosilicate frameworks offer ion-exchange capacity, the controlled release of therapeutic ions (Ag⁺, Zn²⁺, Ca²⁺, Sr²⁺, Cu²⁺), and compatibility with various dental composites. Sustainable and cost-effective zeolite production has become possible due to recent developments in synthetic strategies. These include the valorization of industrial and agricultural residues that are abundant in Si and Al. The incorporation of zeolites into dental adhesives, restorative composites, glass ionomer cements, root canal sealers, prosthetic materials, and implant coatings has been shown to improve mechanical stability and remineralization potential, and enhance antibacterial protection. The unique advantage of zeolites in integrating multifunctionality within a single system is emphasized when compared with other fillers, such as hydroxyapatite nanoparticles and bioactive glass. Nevertheless, obstacles persist with respect to clinical validation, regulatory pathways, and long-term biocompatibility. This review critically assesses the structure–function relationships, synthesis strategies, and dental applications of zeolites, while also delineating future perspectives for their translation into clinically approved, sustainable dental biomaterials. Full article

Kaolin from the Donigazza deposit (NW Sardinia, Italy) was used to investigate the mechanisms of zeolite crystallization under alkaline hydrothermal conditions. The starting material, composed mainly of kaolinite and opal-CT with minor quartz and low iron content, was reacted with NaOH solutions (1–5 mol L⁻¹) at 100 °C for 12–168 h. XRD analyses revealed the formation of zeolitic and related phases, including NaP1, NaP2, analcime, sodalite, and cancrinite, with zeolite contents reaching up to 100%. The extent of kaolinite dissolution varied with both NaOH concentration and reaction time, with complete transformation occurring at ≥3 mol L⁻¹ and ≥48 h. SEM imaging showed idiomorphic crystals (100 nm–10 μm) and globular nanoparticles (<50 nm), likely Na-Al-Si gels. Phase distribution reflected evolving solution chemistry, particularly changes in the Si/Al ratio due to differential dissolution of opal-CT and kaolinite. Crystallization proceeded via both classical (monomer addition) and non-classical (particle attachment) pathways, influenced by supersaturation, gel composition, and reaction kinetics. The transition from NaP1 to NaP2, and the development of metastable phases, indicate kinetic control consistent with Ostwald’s step rule. These results provide insights into the complex dynamics of zeolite formation from natural aluminosilicate precursors in alkaline environments. Full article

Fullerenols are polyhydroxylated derivatives of fullerene (C₆₀(OH)_n) with antioxidant, antiviral, and antibacterial properties and potential biomedical applications due to their solubility and biocompatibility. However, comprehensive assessment of their cytotoxicity is required, particularly regarding their effects on immune system cells. This study investigated the effects of fullerenol C₆₀(OH)₂₄ (MST-Nano, St. Petersburg, Russia) on the viability, apoptosis, and metabolism of THP-1 human monocytic leukemia cells. Cells were treated with concentrations ranging from 0.25 to 1000 µg/mL and incubated for 24, 48, and 72 h. Viability, apoptosis, and nanoparticle association were assessed by flow cytometry; glycolysis and mitochondrial respiration were measured after 24 h on a Seahorse XFe96 analyzer (Agilent Technologies, Santa Clara, CA, USA). Results showed that the effects of fullerenol depend on concentration and exposure time. At 24 h, 750 µg/mL increased viability, while 1000 µg/mL induced apoptosis. After 48 and 72 h, apoptosis increased at concentrations ≥750 µSg/mL, with reduced viability. Nanoparticle association correlated with concentration and inversely correlated with viability but was independent of incubation time. Metabolic analysis revealed decreased glycolysis at 750 µg/mL after 24 h, while mitochondrial respiration was unaffected. Thus, our study demonstrated that fullerenol nanoparticles were safe for the THP-1 monocytic cell line up to 500 µg/mL. Full article

Background: Both clinical and research data support the contribution of IL6-mediated local immunosuppression coupled with IL6-initiated protumorigenic processes, e.g., sustained proliferation and angiogenesis in the development of many cancers, including lung cancer. By virtue of their pharmacologic advantage, controlled release, local delivery formulations can provide immunochemopreventive relevant agent levels at the target site with negligible systemic agent-related effects. Bioavailability is a major challenge with chemopreventive agents. Methods: Janus nanoparticles (JNPs), however, are a versatile drug delivery platform that addresses several major cancer preventive challenges including bioavailability and retention of bioactivity, with elimination of potential deleterious effects with systemic administration. Furthermore, JNPs feature two discrete compartments that enable concurrent delivery of two chemically distinct agents with complementary mechanisms of action. Results: Our data show that the synthetic vitamin A derivative, fenretinide (4HPR), and the IL6R inhibitor, tocilizumab (TCZ), inhibit pathways integral for the development of lung cancer. Initial molecular modeling and kinase activity assays confirmed that 4HPR serves as a competitive inhibitor for active-site ATP binding of two key IL6 downstream kinases (JAK1, CK2). Concurrent RNA-seq analyses that employed Qiagen Ingenuity Pathway Analysis showed significant inhibition of canonical pathways associated with DNA replication and division in conjunction with significant activation of immunogeneic cell death and TREM 1 signaling pathways and showed the immune-augmenting, cancer-preventive impact of 4HPR-TCZ treatment on gene expression in premalignant lung epithelial cells. Subsequent qRT-PCR analyses corroborated the RNA seq findings and demonstrated 3- to 6-fold increased expression of TREM 1 and immunogenic cell death genes, such as TREM1 and NLRC4 and HSPA6 and DDTT3, respectively. These data collectively guided the development of human serum albumin–chitosan JNPs for the co-delivery of 4HPR and TCZ, respectively. 4HPR-TCZ JNP characterization studies demonstrated high circularities and stability in suspension, as shown by consistency in diameter and minimal changes to the polydispersity index, while confocal microscopy confirmed their biocompartmental nature. Subsequent tertiary chemoprevention in vivo studies that employed a highly aggressive human lung cancer cell line showed that JNPs releasing 4HPR and 4HPR-TCZ significantly reduced tumor volume, as assessed by vital tumor tissue, suppressed proliferation, increased apoptosis, and promoted intratumor vascular instability. Conclusions: Collectively, these studies elucidate 4HPR-TCZ in vitro chemopreventive mechanisms of action and demonstrate proof of concept for JNP-4HPR-TCZ in vivo efficacy. Full article

Thymoquinone (TQ), the active compound in Nigella sativa (black seed), has shown promising effects against cancer in many laboratory studies. In this review, we explore how TQ works on different aspects of cancer, from stopping cancer cell growth and spread, to triggering cancer cell death, reducing inflammation, and helping the immune system fight back. We also highlight how TQ may overcome one of the biggest problems in cancer treatment—chemoresistance. When used together with common treatments like chemotherapy, radiation, or immunotherapy, TQ has been shown to improve their effects and reduce harmful side effects in preclinical models. Our review further discusses how TQ affects cancer stem cells, the tumor environment, and gene regulation through epigenetics. While these findings are encouraging, the lack of human studies remains a major gap. We also address TQ’s limited absorption and suggest ways to improve its delivery in the body, such as using nanoparticles or other carriers. Through this review, we aim to show the wide-ranging potential of TQ as a natural compound that may help make cancer treatments more effective and better tolerated. We call for clinical studies to take this research further and bring TQ closer to use in real-world cancer care. Full article

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are highly reactive molecules that, when produced in excess, contribute to oxidative stress, promoting cellular damage and the progression of various diseases, including cancer. Polydatin (PD) is known for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and pro-apoptotic properties, proving effective in several in vitro studies as an antitumor agent. However, its clinical application is limited by low bioavailability, poor water solubility, and chemical instability. To overcome these limitations, nanocarrier systems based on biopolymers, such as chitosan (CS), represent promising strategies for drug delivery. In this study, we developed and optimized CS nanocapsules loaded with Polydatin using the ionotropic gelation method. The final formulation was characterized by UV-Vis spectrophotometry, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and dynamic and dielectrophoretic light scattering (DLS, DELS). Encapsulation efficiency (EE) and the biological effects of the nanocapsules on cancer cells were also evaluated. To assess their antitumor potential, PD-CS nanoparticles were tested on the human breast cancer SKBR3 cells, analyzing their effects on cell viability. The results demonstrate that CS nanocapsules loaded with PD are able to reduce SKBR3 cell proliferation, highlighting their potential for developing new therapeutic tools for cancer treatment. Full article

The extensive use of clothianidin pesticide poses significant risks to non-target organisms and water resources. In this study, NiO-GO is reported as an effective photocatalyst for the degradation of clothianidin in aqueous medium. Nickel oxide (NiO) nanoparticles were synthesized by a green method using Pisum sativum (pea) peel extract, which serves as a natural reducing and stabilizing agent, and subsequently integrated with graphene oxide (GO) through ultrasonication to form a NiO-GO composite in a 1:1 ratio. The materials were characterized by various techniques. Photocatalytic degradation of clothianidin under natural sunlight was systematically investigated, assessing the effects of pH, catalyst dosage, initial pollutant concentration, and agitation speed. The NiO-GO composite exhibited superior photocatalytic performance (96% degradation at pH 3 within 60 min) compared to pristine NiO and GO, with a rate constant 4.4 and 3.3 times higher, respectively. The as-prepared NiO-GO photocatalyst exhibited nearly consistent degradation efficiency over two successive cycles, demonstrating its excellent structural stability and reusability. The enhanced performance is attributed to improved charge separation afforded by GO support. This low-cost, green, and efficient NiO-GO photocatalyst demonstrates promising potential for sustainable pesticide remediation in aqueous environments. Full article

Background/Objectives: Glioblastoma, the most common primary tumor of the central nervous system, is characterized by high malignancy and poor prognosis. One of the main challenges in neurological disorders is to develop an effective treatment modality that can cross the blood–brain barrier. Nanoparticles are revolutionary for neurodegenerative diseases due to their targeted delivery and ability to overcome biological barriers. Cerium oxide (Ce₂O₃) nanoparticles are suitable for use as drug delivery systems. Methods: In our study, we investigated the anticancer mechanism using SN-38, lithium, and Ce₂O₃, a powerful agent used in GBM treatment. We evaluated their anticancer activities separately and in combination with U373 cell lines. GBM cell line U373 cells were cultured. Then, all groups except the control group were treated with different doses of SN-38 and lithium combination therapy with SN-38, lithium, and Ce₂O₃ combination therapy. The results were evaluated using MTT and ELISA tests. Results: When the results were examined, anticancer activity was detected at PTEN, AKT, mTOR, and BAX/Bcl-2 levels in the SN-38 + NPs 25 µg/mL + Lithium 50 µg/mL and SN-38 + NPs 50 µg/mL + Lithium 50 µg/mL dose groups. In addition, findings that inflammation markers were correlated with the apoptosis mechanism were obtained. Conclusion: This study is the first to report that combining lithium with SN-38 and NPs increased oxidative stress more than lithium with SN-38, leading glioblastoma cells to apoptosis and its potential anticancer activity. These results provide a basis for further investigation of its clinical application in cancer treatment. Full article