Past Issues

Targeted Delivery of Farnesene-Functionalized Nanoparticles in Cervical and Ovarian Cancer: Synthesis, Characterization, and Cytotoxicity

Abstract

This study explores the synthesis, characterization, and evaluation of Farnesene-functionalized nanoparticles for targeted therapy in cervical (HeLa) and ovarian (OVCAR-3) cancer cell lines. Farnesene was encapsulated within biodegradable PLGA (Poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid)) nanoparticles using the emulsion-solvent evaporation method. The resulting nanoparticles exhibited an average size of 185.6 ± 4.1 nm, falling within the optimal range for cellular uptake, and a zeta potential of −22.1 ± 1.8 mV, ensuring long-term colloidal stability. Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy confirmed the successful incorporation of Farnesene, with characteristic peaks corresponding to the terpenoid functional group. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) images revealed smooth, spherical nanoparticles with an intact core-shell structure, confirming effective encapsulation. Stability studies over a 30-day period demonstrated no significant changes in particle size or zeta potential, indicating stability under physiological conditions. Cytotoxicity was assessed using the MTT assay, yielding IC50 values of 18.4 ± 1.6 μg/mL for HeLa cells and 22.1 ± 1.4 μg/mL for OVCAR-3 cells, suggesting significant anticancer efficacy. These findings highlight the potential of Farnesene-functionalized nanoparticles for targeted cancer therapy, offering improved drug delivery and reduced systemic toxicity compared to conventional therapies. Further in vivo studies are warranted to assess the therapeutic efficacy and pharmacokinetics of these nanoparticles.

Exploring the Review of Mediating Effect of Work-Life Balance on Job Performance in Educational Institutions

Abstract

This study explores the mediating role of work-life balance (WLB) in enhancing job performance within educational institutions. Work-life balance is critical for fostering a healthy and productive work environment, particularly in the education sector where professional demands often overlap with personal responsibilities. Drawing on a review of recent literature, the study highlights how factors like organizational culture, flexible working arrangements and employee support systems contribute to achieving work-life balance. Furthermore, it examines the interplay between WLB and mediators such as employee loyalty, stress management and job satisfaction, which collectively influence performance outcomes. The findings emphasize the importance of tailored WLB practices to meet the diverse needs of employees, particularly female educators and those in challenging work settings. Recommendations for organizations include implementing supportive policies, promoting a positive work culture and adopting gender-sensitive approaches to enhance employee performance and institutional success.

Enhanced Antimicrobial Activity of Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles: Synthesis, Characterization, and ROS-Mediated Efficacy Against Multidrug-Resistant Stenotrophomonas maltophilia

Abstract

The increasing prevalence of multidrug-resistant (MDR) pathogens, such as Stenotrophomonas maltophilia, necessitates the development of alternative antimicrobial agents. Zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles have garnered significant attention for their potential in overcoming antibiotic resistance due to their broad-spectrum antibacterial activity. In this study, ZnO nanoparticles were synthesized using a simple sol-gel method and characterized by a variety of techniques, including X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and UV-Vis spectroscopy, among others. The antimicrobial activity of these nanoparticles was evaluated against S. maltophilia using a dichlorofluorescein diacetate (DCFH-DA) assay to measure reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation. The ZnO nanoparticles exhibited an average particle size of 40 nm, with spherical morphology and high crystallinity, as confirmed by XRD and TEM. The UV-Vis spectra revealed a bandgap of approximately 3.3 eV, characteristic of ZnO in its wurtzite phase, which is crucial for ROS generation. The ROS assay showed a direct correlation between ZnO concentration and ROS production, with higher concentrations resulting in greater fluorescence intensity. The results suggest that ZnO nanoparticles exert their antimicrobial activity by generating ROS, which damage bacterial cell membranes, proteins, and DNA, leading to cell death. These findings highlight the potential of ZnO nanoparticles as an effective alternative to traditional antibiotics for combating MDR infections, offering a promising approach for future therapeutic applications.

Cobalt Oxide-Infused Ofloxacin Nanocarriers: A Strategy to Overcome MDR Acinetobacter Baumannii Infections

Abstract

Multidrug resistant (MDR) Acinetobacter baumannii represents a critical healthcare challenge due to its ability to evade conventional antibiotics. In this work, we report the fabrication of ofloxacin loaded nanotherapeutics enhanced with cobalt oxide (CoO) metallic ions (Co²⁺) as a dual mechanism antibacterial agent against MDR A. baumannii. The nanotherapeutic system was prepared via a one pot co precipitation/adsorption method, yielding CoO–ofloxacin nanoparticles (CoO OFX NPs). Comprehensive physicochemical characterization showed: average particle size of 85 ± 10 nm (by dynamic light scattering, DLS), zeta potential of + 28.3 mV (indicating colloidal stability), a CoO incorporation of ~12.6 wt % (by inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectroscopy, ICP OES), and drug loading efficiency of ofloxacin at 68.1 % with a drug loading capacity of 132 µg/mg NP. Crystallinity was confirmed by X ray diffraction (XRD) showing peaks consistent with CoO (face centred cubic) and a slight broadening indicative of nanoscale dimensions; Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) revealed characteristic bands of ofloxacin and cobalt–oxygen interactions; transmission electron microscopy (TEM) images displayed spherical particles with a core–shell morphology (CoO core ~50 nm, ofloxacin shell ~15 nm). The in vitro release profile exhibited a sustained release of ofloxacin: ~35 % within 4 h, ~62 % at 24 h, and ~88 % at 72 h in phosphate buffered saline (pH 7.4, 37 °C). Antibacterial testing against a clinical MDR A. baumannii strain showed a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of the CoO OFX NPs at 0.25 µg/mL (ofloxacin equivalent), compared to 2.0 µg/mL for free ofloxacin. A time kill assay demonstrated complete (>99.9 %) bacterial eradication within 6 h at 1× MIC of CoO OFX NPs, whereas free ofloxacin required 24 h at 4× MIC.

Moderate Distribution Dynamics in Resource Allocation: A Conceptual and Statistical Framework for Equitable Allocation

Abstract

Resource allocation remains a central concern in economics, public policy, development studies, and social planning because scarce resources must be distributed among competing needs, groups, and regions. Existing literature has paid substantial attention to extreme inequality and severe deprivation, yet moderate disparities in allocation often remain underexamined despite their long-term effects on fairness, access, and welfare. This paper develops a conceptual and statistical framework for understanding moderate distribution dynamics in relation to equitable resource allocation. Using a conceptual research design based on critical review and analytical synthesis, the paper examines the meaning of moderate distribution dynamics, their significance within allocation systems, and the role of statistical approaches in identifying and interpreting such disparities. The paper argues that moderate disparities are analytically important because they may reveal subtle but persistent imbalances that are often hidden beneath averages or aggregate indicators. It further contends that statistical approaches provide an essential methodological pathway through which such imbalances can be measured and evaluated in relation to fairness, proportionality, need, and opportunity. Drawing on theoretical perspectives including equality, need-based allocation, equity theory, Rawlsian justice, the capability approach, health equity, and responsibility-sensitive fairness, the paper proposes a framework in which statistical methods function as analytical tools for detecting moderate disparities and assessing their implications for equitable allocation. The paper concludes that attention to moderate distribution dynamics can strengthen evidence-based planning, improve transparency and accountability, and contribute to more balanced and inclusive allocation systems.

Application-Oriented Optimization of Accelerator-Generated X-ray Spectra for Medical Imaging, Industrial Non-Destructive Testing, and High-Resolution Research

Abstract

This paper extends the spectrum study into an application-oriented optimization framework. Instead of asking only how beam energy, current, and target material alter the X-ray spectrum, the paper evaluates which combinations best satisfy the operational demands of medical imaging, industrial non-destructive testing, and high-resolution research imaging. A structured multi-criterion ranking model was applied to the same accelerator design space used in Paper 1. Composite performance scores were derived from contrast preservation, penetration requirement, photon availability, spectral compactness, and conversion efficiency. The results show that no single universal optimum exists. Molybdenum at lower beam energy performs best for contrast-sensitive imaging, whereas tungsten at intermediate and high energies dominates penetration-focused and high-output applications. The expanded findings demonstrate that spectrum optimization must be formalized around the intended end use rather than generalized across all tasks. The paper provides a practical decision framework that can guide target selection, operating protocol design, and future experimental validation.

The Influence of Economic Variables on Mutual Fund Performance: A Comparative Analysis Between Developed and Emerging Markets

Abstract

This research investigates the influence of economic factors on mutual fund performance, focusing on a comparative analysis between developed and emerging markets. Economic indicators, including GDP growth, inflation, interest rates, and exchange rates, are examined to understand their correlation with mutual fund returns. The study spans from 2015 to 2023, analyzing mutual funds from developed markets (United States, Germany, Japan) and emerging markets (Brazil, India, South Africa). Using econometric models, the research assesses the relationships between macroeconomic factors and mutual fund performance across different market contexts. Results indicate that economic variables significantly impact mutual fund returns, with stronger correlations observed in developed markets. Specifically, GDP growth is positively correlated with mutual fund returns in developed markets, while inflation negatively affects returns in both developed and emerging markets. Interest rates show an inverse relationship with mutual fund performance, consistent across all markets, while exchange rate fluctuations have a greater impact on emerging markets due to their higher volatility. The study further reveals that economic factors account for a larger proportion of mutual fund returns in developed markets, which are more stable and predictable. In contrast, the impact of economic factors in emerging markets is less pronounced, influenced by political instability and external shocks. The findings provide valuable insights for investors, fund managers, and policymakers, emphasizing the importance of understanding macroeconomic conditions when making investment decisions. This research contributes to the growing body of literature on the role of economic factors in financial markets, especially in the context of differing market maturity levels.