Al-Mustaqbal University

Background Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS) is a complex disorder characterized by persistent fatigue and cognitive impairments, with emerging evidence highlighting the role of gut health in its pathophysiology. The main objective of this review was to synthesize qualitative and quantitative data from research examining the gut microbiota composition, inflammatory markers, and therapeutic outcomes of interventions targeting the microbiome in the context of ME/CFS. Methods The data collection involved a detailed search of peer-reviewed English literature from January 1995 to January 2025, focusing on studies related to the microbiome and ME/CFS. This comprehensive search utilized databases such as PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science, with keywords including “ME/CFS,” “Gut-Brain Axis,” “Gut Health,” “Intestinal Dysbiosis,” “Microbiome Dysbiosis,” “Pathophysiology,” and “Therapeutic Approaches.” Where possible, insights from clinical trials and observational studies were included to enrich the findings. A narrative synthesis method was also employed to effectively organize and present these findings. Results The study found notable changes in the gut microbiota diversity and composition in ME/CFS patients, contributing to systemic inflammation and worsening cognitive and physical impairments. As a result, various microbiome interventions like probiotics, prebiotics, specific diets, supplements, fecal microbiota transplantation, pharmacological interventions, improved sleep, and moderate exercise training are potential therapeutic strategies that merit further exploration. Conclusions Interventions focusing on the gut-brain axis may help reduce neuropsychiatric symptoms in ME/CFS by utilizing the benefits of the microbiome. Therefore, identifying beneficial microbiome elements and incorporating their assessments into clinical practice can enhance patient care through personalized treatments. Due to the complexity of ME/CFS, which involves genetic, environmental, and microbial factors, a multidisciplinary approach is also necessary. Since current research lacks comprehensive insights into how gut health might aid ME/CFS treatment, standardized diagnostics and longitudinal studies could foster innovative therapies, potentially improving quality of life and symptom management for those affected.

Lately, there has been considerable attention directed toward the development of a hydrogen storage cell power system that is both environmentally friendly and free from pollution. In the past decade, numerous notable advancements in methods of energy storage have emerged, influencing research, innovation, and the potential direction for enhancing our comprehension of energy storage. In the present research, the sol–gel Pechini methodology was utilized to synthesize Lu2FeMnO6 nanostructures and evaluate their viability as hydrogen storage materials for the inaugural time. The influence of stabilizing agents, the molar ratio of the gelling agent to the stabilizing agent, and the calcination temperature were meticulously examined to attain the optimal dimensions and morphological characteristics. While researchers have a growing interest in hydrogen energy, the application of double perovskite nanostructures for hydrogen absorption has not yet been explored. Diverse dimensions and configurations of nanocomposites were scrutinized utilizing scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). X-ray diffraction (XRD), energy-dispersive X-ray (EDX), and Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) analyses were conducted to ascertain the purity and chemical compositions of the nanocomposites. Among the various methodologies employed for hydrogen storage, the electrochemical approach is recognized as one of the most efficacious, as it facilitates the generation and storage of hydrogen under standard temperature and pressure conditions. This investigation explored the ramifications of integrating varying concentrations of multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNT) to augment the hydrogen storage capacity of a composite material through an electrochemical methodology. The Lu2FeMnO6/MWCNT nanocomposites exhibited optimal performance when the concentration of MWCNT was set at 2%, achieving a discharge capacity of 540.27 mAhg−1 after 15 cycles in a 2 M KOH electrolyte, which represents a 2.45-fold enhancement compared to the capacity demonstrated by Lu2FeMnO6 nanostructures. This investigation elucidates a promising methodology for the advancement of more efficient electrode materials via the integration of double perovskites.

Gastric cancer (GC) presents a formidable challenge in oncology, mainly due to its inherent resistance to therapies such as tumor necrosis factor-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL). This review delineates the multifaceted mechanisms underlying TRAIL resistance in GC, encompassing the deregulation of death receptors (DRs) and decoy receptors (DcRs), aberrant signaling pathways, and the influence of the tumor microenvironment (TME). Innovative strategies such as nanoparticle-based drug delivery systems and oncolytic viral therapies are being explored to counteract these challenges. Nanoparticles enhance TRAIL delivery and efficacy by exploiting the enhanced permeability and retention (EPR) effect, while oncolytic viruses can selectively target cancer cells and stimulate immune responses. Combination therapies, integrating TRAIL with conventional chemotherapeutics like paclitaxel, cisplatin, and 5-fluorouracil, have shown promise in overcoming resistance by modulating apoptotic pathways and downregulating multidrug resistance genes. Additionally, novel agents like cyclopamine, decitabine, and genistein have emerged as effective TRAIL sensitizers by modulating apoptotic pathways and enhancing DR5 expression. Furthermore, the integration of epigenetic modifiers can restore TRAIL sensitivity by demethylating DR4 and DR5 genes. This review emphasizes the need for a comprehensive understanding of the molecular underpinnings of TRAIL resistance and the potential of combination therapies and TRAIL delivery by nanoparticles and oncolytic viruses to enhance treatment outcomes in GC. Future research should focus on elucidating predictive biomarkers and optimizing therapeutic regimens to improve the clinical efficacy of TRAIL-based strategies in GC.

Herein, novel magnetic binary NiFe2O4/CeO2 nanocomposites were simultaneously prepared via simple sol–gel auto-combustion method serving as an efficient photocatalyst toward dye degradation under visible light illumination. Various gelation agents, including tetraethylenepentamine (TEPA), ammonia (NH3), ethylene diamine (EN), and sodium hydroxide (NaOH), were employed to evaluate their influence on the purity and particle size of the NiFe2O4/CeO2 nanocomposite. The designed nanocomposite was investigated through its performance in the photodecomposition of eosin (EO) and malachite green (MG) dyes. The results exposed that the anionic dye is degraded much more efficiently than cationic dye. The as-prepared photocatalyst displayed remarkable photocatalytic performance, with a 95% efficiency in degrading EO and a comparatively lower efficiency of 68.29% for MG. The pseudo-first-order kinetic model has been identified as the most appropriate for describing the adsorption of dyes onto the photocatalyst. The rate constant (k) for decolorization of EO over a period of 120 min using NiFe2O4/CeO2 photocatalyst was determined to be 0.02798 min−1. The magnetic characteristics of NiFe2O4/CeO2 showed ferromagnetic behavior, which enhances the recovery of catalyst from water, suggesting a valuable opportunity in the practical applications. Besides, the mechanism of photocatalytic degradation was examined through scavenger experiments, which revealed the reactive radicals involved, emphasizing the crucial effect of ·O2– radicals in this procedure. The influence of the initial dye concentration and amount of photocatalyst on the degradation efficiency was also examined thoroughly. Moreover, the recyclability of the photocatalyst was verified over five repeated cycles, demonstrating its good stability.

Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML) presents a formidable challenge in the realm of hematologic malignancies, characterized by the unregulated proliferation of myeloid progenitor cells, leading to severe disruptions in normal hematopoiesis. This review examines the multifaceted role of Galectin-9, a crucial glycan-binding protein in the pathophysiology of AML, emphasizing its potential as both a prognostic biomarker and a therapeutic target. Recent insights into the molecular underpinnings of AML, particularly those involving genetic mutations and cytogenetic abnormalities, illuminate the complex landscape of this disease, where patient outcomes are significantly influenced by individual biological markers. Galectin-9, initially recognized for its involvement in fundamental biological processes such as cell proliferation and immune modulation, has emerged as a pivotal molecule in AML, with expression levels correlating with leukemic cell behavior and clinical prognosis. This review consolidates the extensive literature on Galectin-9, elucidating its role in leukemic transformation and the therapeutic implications of manipulating this pathway. By investigating the intricate relationship between Galectin-9 and AML, we aim to provide a comprehensive understanding that could lead to innovative strategies for managing this aggressive malignancy, offering hope for improved survival outcomes through targeted therapeutic interventions.

The beam-column joint is a critical structural element in reinforced concrete structures, especially under lateral loading conditions. These joints are prone to failure due to high shear stress concentrations, making their accurate design and assessment essential for structural safety.This study aims to assess the accuracy of existing building code provisions for predicting joint shear strength of interior beam-column joints and to develop an advanced predictive model that addresses the code provisions limitations. By analyzing a database consist of 158 tested specimens, a significant discrepancy was observed between code provisions and experimental joint shear strengths, highlighting the unreliability of existing code provisions. To address this, an artificial neural networks (ANNs) were employed to create a model considering key factors influencing joint behavior. Statistical analysis demonstrated the ANN model’s exceptional accuracy in predicting joint shear strength of interior beam-column joints, achieving a correlation coefficient of 0.98 with experimental data. This performance significantly outperformed the 0.66–0.73 range observed for code-based predictions. The model's parameters are presented in a user-friendly format for easy implementation using spreadsheet software, making it a valuable tool for enhancing shear strength predictions in future building codes.

Climate change is unequivocally altering river hydraulics worldwide, with profound implications for flow regimes, sediment dynamics, and ecological integrity. This review synthesizes global case studies from diverse regions, including the Himalayas, African river basins, and Arctic systems, to evaluate the impacts of rising temperatures, shifting precipitation patterns, and intensifying extreme weather events. Key findings highlight accelerated snow-to-rain transitions in boreal and alpine zones, permafrost thaw-induced bank instability, and increased flood and drought frequencies, which collectively disrupt seasonal flow patterns and amplify sediment transport in cryosphere-fed basins. Such changes threaten aquatic ecosystems by elevating water temperatures, degrading habitats, and endangering cold-water species, while exacerbating water scarcity and infrastructure risks. The review underscores advancements in predictive modeling, including machine learning and hybrid frameworks, to address non-stationary hydrological behaviors, though challenges persist in data-scarce regions. Effective adaptation requires multidisciplinary strategies, integrating sustainable river basin management, nature-based solutions (e.g., riparian restoration, floodplain reconnection), and engineered interventions. Emphasizing the synergy between local knowledge and scientific innovation, the study calls for dynamic socio-ecological frameworks, long-term sediment-biodiversity studies, and scalable climate-hydrological models. Proactive, integrated approaches are vital to mitigate cascading risks, safeguard ecosystem services, and balance human needs with environmental preservation in a rapidly changing climate.

This paper critically analyzes the influence of non-terrestrial networks (NTN) on the NR random access mechanism for 5G New Radio (NR). The use of NTN in 5G enables widespread connection but presents technological issues like heightened propagation delays, differential delays, and Doppler shifts. This work investigates the effect of NTN on Physical Random Access Channels (PRACH) preamble configurations, random access response window lengths, and uplink timing advance techniques. We present a novel method that maximizes these values to improve the NR random access efficiency in NTN environments. One thing that needs to be thought about is switching from stationary to adaptive timing advance models, as well as Doppler-resilient PRACH preamble designs and adaptive response window approaches. These improvements lower latency and increase synchronizing accuracy; hence, they enhance NTN-supported 5G NR implementations. The results of the research are vital for increasing the dependability and user experience of next-generation wireless communication systems coupled with NTN.

The primary objective of this study is to explore how advanced manufacturing technologies and workforce development can enhance the competitiveness of India’s electric vehicle (EV) industry. The study combines data collection, statistical analysis, and expert interviews using a mixed-methods approach. Quantitative data on production efficiency, quality control, and workforce skills were analyzed using ANOVA and regression, while qualitative insights provided contextual understanding. Results indicate that adopting advanced technologies such as automation, robotics, and Industry 4.0 solutions significantly improves production efficiency and product quality. A leading Indian EV manufacturer reported a 30% reduction in production time and a 25% increase in product quality after integrating robotic assembly lines. Workforce development programs, like the collaboration between Ashok Leyland and IIT Madras, substantially improved worker competencies, addressing the skill gap in advanced manufacturing systems. Comparative analysis revealed India’s EV manufacturing metrics lag behind global leaders, emphasizing the need for increased investments in manufacturing infrastructure and targeted training programs. The study concludes that strategic investments in advanced technologies and workforce development are essential for reducing import dependency, streamlining manufacturing processes, positioning India as a competitive player in the global EV market, and offering actionable recommendations for policymakers and industry stakeholders.

Background Proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR) is a serious vision-threatening complication of diabetes. Chronic kidney disease (CKD), measured by estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), shares similar pathophysiological mechanisms with diabetic retinopathy, including inflammation, oxidative stress, and vascular dysfunction. However, the strength of the association between eGFR and PDR remains unclear. This review evaluates the association between reduced eGFR and the risk of PDR in individuals with diabetes. Methods A comprehensive literature search was conducted in PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science, from inception to October 2024. Observational studies reporting both eGFR values and PDR status were included. Study quality was assessed using the Newcastle–Ottawa Scale. Pooled standardized mean differences (SMD) were calculated using a fixed-effects model when heterogeneity was low (I² ≤ 50%). Subgroup analyses based on eGFR estimation method Modification of Diet in Renal Disease (MDRD) and Chronic Kidney Disease Epidemiology Collaboration (CKD-EPI), sensitivity analyses, and meta-regression for diabetes duration and HbA1c were conducted. Publication bias was evaluated using funnel plots and Egger’s test. Results A total of 11 studies were included, comprising 602 patients with PDR and 5,475 individuals without diabetic retinopathy. The pooled SMD for eGFR between PDR and non-PDR groups was − 0.43 (95% CI − 0.52 to − 0.34; P < 0.0001), indicating significantly lower eGFR in PDR patients. Heterogeneity was moderate (I² = 42.3%). Subgroup analysis showed an SMD of − 0.58 (95% CI − 1.02 to − 0.14; I² = 0%) using the MDRD formula and − 0.43 (95% CI − 0.58 to − 0.28; I² = 80.4%) with the CKD-EPI formula. Meta-regression revealed a significant negative association between diabetes duration and PDR proportion (P = 0.0155), but no association with HbA1c (P = 0.7798). The prediction interval ranged from − 0.53 to − 0.33. Funnel plot asymmetry suggested potential publication bias (P < 0.05). Conclusions This systematic review and meta-analysis found a significant association between reduced eGFR and PDR in patients with diabetes, with consistent findings across studies and eGFR estimation methods. Though heterogeneity suggests caution in interpretation. Additional prospective using standardized methodologies are needed to clarify causality and enhance risk prediction.

Background Hernias are a major health concern in India, with varying incidence and prevalence influenced by socio-demographic factors. Despite global advances in hernia management, regional disparities are evident within India. Method This analysis utilized data from the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) Study 2021 to examine inguinal, femoral, and abdominal hernias across India from 1990 to 2021, categorized by ICD-10 codes. Key metrics analyzed included prevalence, incidence, mortality, and Disability-Adjusted Life Years (DALYs), with age-standardized rates (ASRs). The Estimated Annual Percentage Change (EAPC) for incidence and mortality, Spearman correlation for assessing the relationship between Socio-Demographic Index (SDI) and hernia metrics, and ARIMA models for future trend projections were employed. Result Between 1990 and 2021, the age-standardized incidence rate (ASIR) of hernias in India decreased from 143.85 to 137.05 per 100,000, a reduction of 4.72%, despite a 46% increase in the absolute number of hernia cases due to population growth. Mortality rates significantly declined by 57.05%. DALYs also decreased from 98.01 to 43.51 per 100,000. Projections for 2031 indicate stabilization of incidence rates and an increase in prevalence. Conclusions Significant improvements in hernia management in India have been achieved over three decades, driven by advances in healthcare and socio-demographic progress. However, the rising number of cases and expected increase in prevalence highlight the need for enhanced healthcare strategies and resource allocation to manage the hernia burden effectively.

This study focuses on designing and evaluating new nanostructures that combine polystyrene (PS), silicon carbide (SiC) and platinum silicide (PtSi). These nanostructures possess qualities that make them suitable, for applications in optoelectronics. The research explores the optimization, structural characteristics and electronic properties of PS/SiC/PtSi nanostructures. The findings reveal improvements in both the structure and electronic features of polystyrene when incorporating SiC/PtSi nanostructures. This demonstrates the potential of PS/SiC/PtSi nanostructures for electronics and photonics applications. Additionally the presence of PtSi/SiC leads to reduce in the energy gap of PS from 5.004 eV to 2.979 eV highlighting the relevance of these nanostructures for electronic devices. The electronic parameters of PS also exhibit enhancements when doped with SiC/PtSi nanostructures. Overall these results affirm the importance and promise of PS/SiC/PtSi nanostructures, in the field of nanoelectronics and photonics.

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

This study clarifies the interaction between autophagy and inflammasome within the cancer framework. The inflammasome generates pro-inflammatory cytokines to direct the immune response to pathogens and cellular stressors. Autophagy maintains cellular homeostasis and can either promote or inhibit cancer. These pathways interact to affect tumorigenesis, immune responses, and therapy. Autophagy controls inflammasome activity by affecting cancer pathogenesis and tumor microenvironment inflammation, highlighting novel cancer therapeutic approaches. Recent studies indicate that modulating autophagy and inflammasome pathways can boost anti-cancer immunity, reduce drug-resistance, and improve therapeutic efficacy. Recent studies indicate modulating inflammasome and autophagy pathways can augment anti-cancer immunity, mitigate therapy resistance, and improve treatment efficacy. Cancer research relies on understanding the inflammasome-autophagy relationship to develop targeted therapies that enhance anti-tumor efficacy and reduce inflammatory symptoms. Customized therapies may improve outcomes based on autophagy gene variations and inflammasome polymorphisms. This study investigates autophagy pathways and the inflammasome in tumor immunopathogenesis, cytokine function, and cancer therapeutic strategies, highlighting their significance in cancer biology and treatment.

Intentional iron overdose in adults is a rare but formidable clinical challenge, often complicated by delayed presentation and a concealed history of ingestion. We report the case of a 21‐year‐old male who presented 4 days after consuming large quantities of ferrous sulfate tablets. The initial nonspecific gastrointestinal symptoms progressed to severe jaundice, encephalopathy, and coagulopathy, and the diagnosis was confounded by the patient's denial of suicidal ingestion. By the time iron toxicity was identified, the therapeutic window for early decontamination or parenteral chelation had been passed. Supportive care, including advanced extracorporeal therapies, facilitated hepatic and renal recovery. This case highlights the importance of high clinical suspicion, thorough history taking, and the potential role of salvage therapies in severe late‐presenting iron poisoning.

Preeclampsia (PE), which affects between 2 and 15% of pregnancies, is one of the most often reported prenatal problems. It is defined as gestational hypertension beyond 20 weeks of pregnancy, along with widespread edema or proteinuria and specific types of organ damage. PE is characterized by increased levels and activation of nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) in the mother’s blood and placental cells. This factor controls over 400 genes linked to inflammatory, apoptotic, angiogenesis, and cellular responses to hypoxia and oxidative stress. In the final stages of physiological pregnancy, NF-κB levels need to be lowered to favor maternal immunosuppressive events and continue gestation to prevent hypoxia and inflammation, which are advantageous for implantation. Pharmacotherapy is thought to be a potential treatment for PE by downregulating NF-κB activation. NF-κB activity has been discovered to be regulated by several medications used for both prevention and treatment of PE. However, in order to guarantee treatment safety and effectiveness, additional creativity is desperately required. This article provides an overview of the current understanding of the defined function of NF-κB in PE progression. According to their effect on the cellular control of NF-κB pathways, newly proposed compounds for preventing and treating PE have also been emphasized.

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