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Fulltext Protective Effect of Sundarban Honey against Acetaminophen-Induced Acute Hepatonephrotoxicity in Rats

Afroz R, Tanvir EM, Hossain MF, Gan SH, Parvez M, Aminul Islam M, et al.

Evid Based Complement Alternat Med, 2014;2014:143782.
PMID: 25530774 DOI: 10.1155/2014/143782

Honey, a supersaturated natural product of honey bees, contains complex compounds with antioxidant properties and therefore has a wide a range of applications in both traditional and modern medicine. In the present study, the protective effects of Sundarban honey from Bangladesh against acetaminophen- (APAP-) induced hepatotoxicity and nephrotoxicity in experimental rats were investigated. Adult male Wistar rats were pretreated with honey (5 g/kg) for 4 weeks, followed by the induction of hepatotoxicity and nephrotoxicity via the oral administration of a single dose of APAP (2 g/kg). Organ damage was confirmed by measuring the elevation of serum alkaline phosphatase (ALP), alanine transaminase (ALT), aspartate transaminase (AST), total protein (TP), total bilirubin (TB), urea, creatinine, and malondialdehyde (MDA). Histopathological alterations observed in the livers and the kidneys further confirmed oxidative damage to these tissues. Animals pretreated with Sundarban honey showed significantly markedly reduced levels of all of the investigated parameters. In addition, Sundarban honey ameliorated the altered hepatic and renal morphology in APAP-treated rats. Overall, our findings indicate that Sundarban honey protects against APAP-induced acute hepatic and renal damage, which could be attributed to the honey's antioxidant properties.
Fulltext Stability of perovskite solar cells: issues and prospects

Chowdhury TA, Bin Zafar MA, Sajjad-Ul Islam M, Shahinuzzaman M, Islam MA, Khandaker MU

RSC Adv, 2023 Jan 06;13(3):1787-1810.
PMID: 36712629 DOI: 10.1039/d2ra05903g

Even though power conversion efficiency has already reached 25.8%, poor stability is one of the major challenges hindering the commercialization of perovskite solar cells (PSCs). Several initiatives, such as structural modification and fabrication techniques by numerous ways, have been employed by researchers around the world to achieve the desired level of stability. The goal of this review is to address the recent improvements in PSCs in terms of structural modification and fabrication procedures. Perovskite films are used to provide a broad range of stability and to lose up to 20% of their initial performance. A thorough comprehension of the effect of the fabrication process on the device's stability is considered to be crucial in order to provide the foundation for future attempts. We summarize several commonly used fabrication techniques - spin coating, doctor blade, sequential deposition, hybrid chemical vapor, and alternating layer-by-layer. The evolution of device structure from regular to inverted, HTL free, and ETL including the changes in material utilization from organic to inorganic, as well as the perovskite material are presented in a systematic manner. We also aimed to gain insight into the functioning stability of PSCs, as well as practical information on how to increase their operational longevity through sensible device fabrication and materials processing, to promote PSC commercialization at the end.
Synergistic Effect of Allium-like Ni9S8 & Cu7S4 Electrodeposited on Nickel Foam for Enhanced Water Splitting Activity

Mottakin M, Selvanathan V, Ariful Islam M, Almohamadi H, Alharthi NH, Yoshimura S, et al.

Chem Asian J, 2024 Aug 19;19(16):e202300532.
PMID: 37544903 DOI: 10.1002/asia.202300532

This study explores a water-splitting activity using a biphasic electrodeposited electrode on nickel foam (NF). The *Ni9S8/Cu7S4/NF electrode with citric acid reduction exhibits superior OER (oxygen evolution reaction) and HER (hydrogen evolution reaction) performance with reduced overpotential and a steeper Tafel slope. The *Ni9S8/Cu7S4/NF electrode displays the ultra-low overpotential value of 212 mV for OER and 109 mV for HER at the current density of 10 mA cm-2. The Tafel slope of 25.4 mV dec-1 for OER and 108 mV dec-1 for HER was found from that electrode. The maximum electrochemical surface area (ECSA), lowest series resistance and lowest charge transfer resistance are found in citric acid reduced electrode, showing increased electrical conductivity and quick charge transfer kinetics. Remarkably, the *Ni9S8/Cu7S4/NF electrode demonstrated excellent stability for 80 hours in pure water splitting and 20 hours in seawater splitting. The synergistic effect of using bimetallic (Cu&Ni) sulfide and enhanced electrical conductivity of the electrode are caused by reduction of metal sulfide into metallic species resulting in improved water splitting performance.
Chemiresistive Gas Sensing using Graphene-Metal Oxide Hybrids

Hossain MK, Hendi A, Asim N, Alghoul MA, Rafiqul Islam M, Hussain SMS

Chem Asian J, 2024 Aug 19;19(16):e202300529.
PMID: 37695946 DOI: 10.1002/asia.202300529

Chemiresistive sensing lies in its ability to provide fast, accurate, and reliable detection of various gases in a cost-effective and non-invasive manner. In this context, graphene-functionalized metal oxides play crucial role in hydrogen gas sensing. However, a cost-effective, defect-free, and large production schemes of graphene-based sensors are required for industrial applications. This review focuses on graphene-functionalized metal oxide nanostructures designed for gaseous molecules detection, mainly hydrogen gas sensing applications. For the convenience of the reader and to understand the role of graphene-metal oxide hybrids (GMOH) in gas sensing activities, a brief overview of the properties and synthesis routes of graphene and GMOH have been reported in this paper. Metal oxides play an essential role in the GMOH construct for hydrogen gas sensing. Therefore, various metal oxides-decorated GMOH constructs are detailed in this review as gas sensing platforms, particularly for hydrogen detection. Finally, specific directions for future research works and challenges ahead in designing highly selective and sensitive hydrogen gas sensors have been highlighted. As illustrated in this review, understanding of the metal oxides-decorated GMOH constructs is expected to guide ones in developing emerging hybrid nanomaterials that are suitable for hydrogen gas sensing applications.
Fulltext Polarization-selective metamaterial absorber using tailored Y-shaped SRR for UWB device and Doppler navigation aids applications

Mahmud S, Chowdhury AR, Hannan S, Tariqul Islam M, Alshammari AS, Soliman MS

Heliyon, 2024 Dec 15;10(23):e40102.
PMID: 39669167 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e40102

In this paper, we present an unprecedented metamaterial absorber design exhibiting exceptional characteristics in electromagnetic wave absorption. The proposed bent Y-shaped structure, fabricated on an FR-4 substrate with copper patches, showcases remarkable performance across a diverse frequency spectrum. Through exhaustive simulations in CST, this design manifests eight distinct resonant frequencies, achieving absorption rates exceeding 90 % at each resonance. The resonances, strategically spanning from L-band (3.728 GHz) through S-band, C-band, X-band, Ku-band, and K-band up to 22.664 GHz, signify unparalleled versatility and efficacy in mitigating electromagnetic radiation. It investigates the equivalent circuit parameters of a proposed metamaterial absorber design, focusing on inductance (L), capacitance (C), and resistance (R). This paper investigates the applications of UWB devices at 3.728 GHz and Doppler navigation aids at the 13.4 GHz frequency as regulated by the Federal Communications Commission. It includes a discussion on near-zero refractive Index Metamaterials (NZRIM), highlighting their potential utilization in achieving extraordinary control over wave behaviour. Notably, the absorber's inherent polarization insensitivity fortifies its adaptability in various applications. Additionally, the metamaterial exhibits near-zero or negative permittivity, altering electric response, while simultaneously demonstrating permeability absolute zero throughout all frequency bands sparking new avenues for exploration and challenging conventional electromagnetic theories.
Fulltext Design and validation of ultra-compact metamaterial-based biosensor for non-invasive cervical cancer diagnosis in terahertz regime

Hamza MN, Tariqul Islam M, Lavadiya S, Ud Din I, Sanches B, Koziel S, et al.

PLoS One, 2025;20(2):e0311431.
PMID: 39899558 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0311431

Cervical cancer belongs to the most dangerous types of cancers posing considerable threat to women's survival. It is most often diagnosed in the advanced stages as precancerous lesions are often symptom-free and difficult to identify. Microwave imaging, especially in terahertz (THz) range, is a convenient and noninvasive cancer detection tool. It enables characterization of biological tissues and discrimination between healthy and malignant ones. This study presents a novel triple-band biosensor based on metamaterials (MTMs). By leveraging unique properties of MTMs, the proposed biosensor operates as a perfect absorber. It exploits resonant modes in the THz spectrum to achieve remarkable sensitivity. Meticulous selection of the sensor geometry and dimensions enables efficient miniaturization. Meanwhile, utilization of frequency-domain data to detect refractive index changes improves resolution of cancerous tissue identification. Extensive numerical investigations corroborate its ability to carry out reliable early-stage cervical cancer diagnosis. This includes identification of the spatial extent of the malignant tissue. Excellent electrical properties of the sensor are accompanied by its compact size, which is highly desirable for non-invasive and portable applications.
In silico prediction of potential inhibitors for SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variant using molecular docking and dynamics simulation-based drug repurposing

Mohamed EAR, Abdel-Rahman IM, Zaki MEA, Al-Khdhairawi A, Abdelhamid MM, Alqaisi AM, et al.

J Mol Model, 2023 Feb 20;29(3):70.
PMID: 36808314 DOI: 10.1007/s00894-023-05457-z

BACKGROUND: In November 2021, variant B.1.1.529 of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) was identified by the World Health Organization (WHO) and designated Omicron. Omicron is characterized by a high number of mutations, thirty-two in total, making it more transmissible than the original virus. More than half of those mutations were found in the receptor-binding domain (RBD) that directly interacts with human angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2). This study aimed to discover potent drugs against Omicron, which were previously repurposed for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). All repurposed anti-COVID-19 drugs were compiled from previous studies and tested against the RBD of SARS-CoV-2 Omicron.
METHODS: As a preliminary step, a molecular docking study was performed to investigate the potency of seventy-one compounds from four classes of inhibitors. The molecular characteristics of the best-performing five compounds were predicted by estimating the drug-likeness and drug score. Molecular dynamics simulations (MD) over 100 ns were performed to inspect the relative stability of the best compound within the Omicron receptor-binding site.
RESULTS: The current findings point out the crucial roles of Q493R, G496S, Q498R, N501Y, and Y505H in the RBD region of SARS-CoV-2 Omicron. Raltegravir, hesperidin, pyronaridine, and difloxacin achieved the highest drug scores compared with the other compounds in the four classes, with values of 81%, 57%, 18%, and 71%, respectively. The calculated results showed that raltegravir and hesperidin had high binding affinities and stabilities to Omicron with ΔGbinding of - 75.7304 ± 0.98324 and - 42.693536 ± 0.979056 kJ/mol, respectively. Further clinical studies should be performed for the two best compounds from this study.
Exploring antidiabetic potential of adamantyl-thiosemicarbazones via aldose reductase (ALR2) inhibition

Shehzad MT, Hameed A, Al-Rashida M, Imran A, Uroos M, Asari A, et al.

Bioorg Chem, 2019 11;92:103244.
PMID: 31541804 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioorg.2019.103244

The role of aldose reductase (ALR2) in diabetes mellitus is well-established. Our interest in finding ALR2 inhibitors led us to explore the inhibitory potential of new thiosemicarbazones. In this study, we have synthesized adamantyl-thiosemicarbazones and screened them as aldehyde reductase (ALR1) and aldose reductase (ALR2) inhibitors. The compounds bearing phenyl 3a, 2-methylphenyl 3g and 2,6-dimethylphenyl 3m have been identified as most potent ALR2 inhibitors with IC50 values of 3.99 ± 0.38, 3.55 ± 0.26 and 1.37 ± 0.92 µM, respectively, compared with sorbinil (IC50 = 3.14 ± 0.02 μM). The compounds 3a, 3g, and 3m also inhibit ALR1 with IC50 value of 7.75 ± 0.28, 7.26 ± 0.39 and 7.04 ± 2.23 µM, respectively. Molecular docking was also performed for putative binding of potent inhibitors with target enzyme ALR2. The most potent 2,6-dimethylphenyl bearing thiosemicarbazone 3m (IC50 = 1.37 ± 0.92 µM for ALR2) and other two compound 3a and 3g could potentially lead for the development of new therapeutic agents.
Benzoxazinone-thiosemicarbazones as antidiabetic leads via aldose reductase inhibition: Synthesis, biological screening and molecular docking study

Shehzad MT, Imran A, Njateng GSS, Hameed A, Islam M, Al-Rashida M, et al.

Bioorg Chem, 2019 06;87:857-866.
PMID: 30551808 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioorg.2018.12.006

Aldose reductase is an important enzyme in the polyol pathway, where glucose is converted to fructose, and sorbitol is released. Aldose reductase activity increases in diabetes as the glucose levels increase, resulting in increased sorbitol production. Sorbitol, being less cell permeable tends to accumulate in tissues such as eye lenses, peripheral nerves and glomerulus that are not insulin sensitive. This excessive build-up of sorbitol is responsible for diabetes associated complications such as retinopathy and neuropathy. In continuation of our interest to design and discover potent inhibitors of aldo-keto reductases (AKRs; aldehyde reductase ALR1 or AKR1A, and aldose reductase ALR2 or AKR1B), herein we designed and investigated a series of new benzoxazinone-thiosemicarbazones (3a-r) as ALR2 and ALR1 inhibitors. Most compounds exhibited excellent inhibitory activities with IC50 values in lower micro-molar range. Compounds 3b and 3l were found to be most active ALR2 inhibitors with IC50 values of 0.52 ± 0.04 and 0.19 ± 0.03 μM, respectively, both compounds were more effective inhibitors as compared to the standard ALR2 inhibitor (sorbinil, with IC50 value of 3.14 ± 0.02 μM).
Probing 4-(diethylamino)-salicylaldehyde-based thiosemicarbazones as multi-target directed ligands against cholinesterases, carbonic anhydrases and α-glycosidase enzymes

Hashmi S, Khan S, Shafiq Z, Taslimi P, Ishaq M, Sadeghian N, et al.

Bioorg Chem, 2021 02;107:104554.
PMID: 33383322 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioorg.2020.104554

With the fading of 'one drug-one target' approach, Multi-Target-Directed Ligands (MTDL) has become a central idea in modern Medicinal Chemistry. The present study aimed to design, develop and characterize a novel series of 4-(Diethylamino)-salicylaldehyde based thiosemicarbazones (3a-p) and evaluates their biological activity against cholinesterase, carbonic anhydrases and α-glycosidase enzymes. The hCA I isoform was inhibited by these novel 4-(diethylamino)-salicylaldehyde-based thiosemicarbazones (3a-p) in low nanomolar levels, the Ki of which differed between 407.73 ± 43.71 and 1104.11 ± 80.66 nM. Against the physiologically dominant isoform hCA II, the novel compounds demonstrated Kis varying from 323.04 ± 56.88 to 991.62 ± 77.26 nM. Also, these novel 4-(diethylamino)-salicylaldehyde based thiosemicarbazones (3a-p) effectively inhibited AChE, with Ki values in the range of 121.74 ± 23.52 to 548.63 ± 73.74 nM. For BChE, Ki values were obtained with in the range of 132.85 ± 12.53 to 618.53 ± 74.23 nM. For α-glycosidase, the most effective Ki values of 3b, 3k, and 3g were with Ki values of 77.85 ± 10.64, 96.15 ± 9.64, and 124.95 ± 11.44 nM, respectively. We have identified inhibition mechanism of 3b, 3g, 3k, and 3n on α-glycosidase AChE, hCA I, hCA II, and BChE enzyme activities. Hydrazine-1-carbothioamide and hydroxybenzylidene moieties of compounds play an important role in the inhibition of AChE, hCA I, and hCA II enzymes. Hydroxybenzylidene moieties are critical for inhibition of both BChE and α-glycosidase enzymes. The findings of in vitro and in silico evaluations indicate 4-(diethylamino)-salicylaldehyde-based thiosemicarbazone scaffold to be a promising hit for drug development for multifactorial diseases like Alzheimer's disease.
In vitro evaluation of Cuscuta reflexa Roxb. for thrombolytic, antioxidant, membrane stabilizing and antimicrobial activities

Azad AK, Laboni FR, Rashid H, Ferdous S, Rashid SS, Kamal N, et al.

Nat Prod Res, 2020 Aug;34(16):2394-2397.
PMID: 30475649 DOI: 10.1080/14786419.2018.1538216

The key purpose of this experiment was to evaluate the thrombolytic, antioxidant, membrane stabilizing and antimicrobial potentials of crude ethanol extracts (CEE) of whole plant, organic and aqueous soluble fractions (OF & AQSF). CEE showed the highest (44.63%) clot lysis activity compared to streptokinase (64.35%). In DPPH study, petroleum ether soluble fraction (PSF) has exhibited IC50 of 18.83 μg/mL while the standard ascorbic acid was 2.48 µg/mL. AQSF profoundly inhibited the lysis of erythrocytes (66.20%) which was insignificantly different (p > 0.05) to acetylsalicylic acid (71.98%), the reference. However, AQSF showed a significantly stronger level of protection against heat-induced hemolysis (64.80%) as compared with the acetylsalicylic acid (78.90%). CEE, OF and AQSF have displayed reasonable growth of inhibition of tested bacteria compared to negative control and standard drug (77.50 mg of GAE/g).
Seasonal dynamics of phytoplankton community and functional groups in a tropical river

Haque MA, Jewel MAS, Akhi MM, Atique U, Paul AK, Iqbal S, et al.

Environ Monit Assess, 2021 Oct 08;193(11):704.
PMID: 34623504 DOI: 10.1007/s10661-021-09500-5

Functional classification of phytoplankton could be a valuable tool in water quality monitoring in the eutrophic riverine ecosystems. This study is novel from the Bangladeshi perspective. In this study, phytoplankton cell density and diversity were studied with particular reference to the functional groups (FGs) approach during pre-monsoon, monsoon, and post-monsoon at four sampling stations in Karatoya River, Bangladesh. A total of 54 phytoplankton species were recorded under four classes, viz. Chlorophyceae (21 species) Cyanophyceae (16 species), Bacillariophyceae (15 species), and Euglenophyceae (2 species). A significantly higher total cell density of phytoplankton was detected during the pre-monsoon season (24.20 × 103 cells/l), while the lowest in monsoon (9.43 × 103 cells/l). The Shannon-Wiener diversity index varied significantly (F = 16.109, P = 000), with the highest value recorded during the post-monsoon season. Analysis of similarity (ANOSIM) identified significant variations among the three seasons (P M/MP/X1 was considered the most abundant FG in the Karatoya River. FGs of the Karatoya River were influenced mainly by the nutrients (PO4-P and NO3-N) enrichments. As a novel investigation on FGs of phytoplankton in Bangladesh, this study recommends additional surveys in other rivers and floodplains to improve our understanding of phytoplankton diversity and functional groups.
Fulltext Circulating cytokines and small molecules follow distinct expression patterns in acute myeloid leukaemia

Islam M, Mohamed EH, Esa E, Kamaluddin NR, Zain SM, Yusoff YM, et al.

Br. J. Cancer, 2017 Nov 07;117(10):1551-1556.
PMID: 28898234 DOI: 10.1038/bjc.2017.316

BACKGROUND: Although aberrant expression of cytokines and small molecules (analytes) is well documented in acute myeloid leukaemia (AML), their co-expression patterns are not yet identified. In addition, plasma baselines for some analytes that are biomarkers for other cancers have not been previously reported in AML.
METHODS: We used multiplex array technology to simultaneously detect and quantify 32 plasma analyte (22 reported analytes and 10 novel analytes) levels in 38 patients.
RESULTS: In our study, 16 analytes are found to be significantly deregulated (13 higher, 3 lower, Mann-Whitney U-test, P-value <0.005), where 5 of them have never been reported before in AML. We predicted a seven-analyte-containing multiplex panel for diagnosis of AML and, among them, MIF could be a possible therapeutic target. In addition, we observed that circulating analytes show five co-expression signatures.
CONCLUSIONS: Circulating analyte expression in AML significantly differs from normal, and follow distinct expression patterns.
Thermoluminescent characterization and defect studies of graphite-rich media under high dose neutron exposure

Khandaker MU, Nawi SNM, Lam SE, Sani SFA, Islam MA, Islam MA, et al.

Appl Radiat Isot, 2023 Jun;196:110771.
PMID: 36933313 DOI: 10.1016/j.apradiso.2023.110771

Thermoluminescence (TL) materials have a broad variety of uses in various fields, such as clinical research, individual dosimetry, and environmental dosimetry, amongst others. However, the use of individual neutron dosimetry has been developing more aggressively lately. In this regard, present study establishes a relationship between the neutron dosage and the optical property changes of graphite-rich materials caused by high doses of neutron radiation. This has been done with the intention of developing a novel, graphite-based radiation dosimeter. Herein, the TL yield of commercially graphite-rich materials (i.e. graphite sheet, 2B and HB grade pencils) irradiated by neutron radiation with doses ranging from 250 Gy to 1500 Gy has been investigated. The samples were bombarded with thermal neutrons as well as a negligible amount of gamma rays, from the nuclear reactor TRIGA-II installed at the Bangladesh Atomic Energy Commission. The shape of the glow curves was observed to be independent of the given dosage, with the predominant TL dosimetric peak maintained within the region of 163 °C-168 °C for each sample. By studying the glow curves of the irradiated samples, some of the most well theoretical models and techniques were used to compute the kinetic parameters such as the order of kinetics (b), activation energy (E) or trap depth, frequency factor (s) or escape probability, and trap lifetime (τ). All of the samples were found to have a good linear response over the whole dosage range, with 2B grade of polymer pencil lead graphite (PPLGs) demonstrating a higher level of sensitivity than both HB grade and graphite sheet (GS) samples. Additionally, the level of sensitivity shown by each of them is highest at the lowest dosage that was given, and it decreases as the dose increases. Importantly, the phenomenon of dose-dependent structural modifications and internal annealing of defects has been observed by assessing the area of deconvoluted micro-Raman spectra of graphite-rich materials in high-frequency areas. This trend is consistent with the cyclical pattern reported in the intensity ratio of defect and graphite modes in previously investigated carbon-rich media. Such recurrent occurrences suggest the idea of employing Raman microspectroscopy as a radiation damage study tool for carbonaceous materials. The excellent responses of the key TL properties of the 2B grade pencil demonstrate its usefulness as a passive radiation dosimeter. As a consequence, the findings suggest that graphite-rich materials have the potential to be useful as a low-cost passive radiation dosimeter, with applications in radiotherapy and manufacturing.
Fulltext Deep Learning for Reliable Classification of COVID-19, MERS, and SARS from Chest X-ray Images

Tahir AM, Qiblawey Y, Khandakar A, Rahman T, Khurshid U, Musharavati F, et al.

Cognit Comput, 2022;14(5):1752-1772.
PMID: 35035591 DOI: 10.1007/s12559-021-09955-1

Novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an extremely contagious and quickly spreading coronavirus infestation. Severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) and Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS), which outbreak in 2002 and 2011, and the current COVID-19 pandemic are all from the same family of coronavirus. This work aims to classify COVID-19, SARS, and MERS chest X-ray (CXR) images using deep convolutional neural networks (CNNs). To the best of our knowledge, this classification scheme has never been investigated in the literature. A unique database was created, so-called QU-COVID-family, consisting of 423 COVID-19, 144 MERS, and 134 SARS CXR images. Besides, a robust COVID-19 recognition system was proposed to identify lung regions using a CNN segmentation model (U-Net), and then classify the segmented lung images as COVID-19, MERS, or SARS using a pre-trained CNN classifier. Furthermore, the Score-CAM visualization method was utilized to visualize classification output and understand the reasoning behind the decision of deep CNNs. Several deep learning classifiers were trained and tested; four outperforming algorithms were reported: SqueezeNet, ResNet18, InceptionV3, and DenseNet201. Original and preprocessed images were used individually and all together as the input(s) to the networks. Two recognition schemes were considered: plain CXR classification and segmented CXR classification. For plain CXRs, it was observed that InceptionV3 outperforms other networks with a 3-channel scheme and achieves sensitivities of 99.5%, 93.1%, and 97% for classifying COVID-19, MERS, and SARS images, respectively. In contrast, for segmented CXRs, InceptionV3 outperformed using the original CXR dataset and achieved sensitivities of 96.94%, 79.68%, and 90.26% for classifying COVID-19, MERS, and SARS images, respectively. The classification performance degrades with segmented CXRs compared to plain CXRs. However, the results are more reliable as the network learns from the main region of interest, avoiding irrelevant non-lung areas (heart, bones, or text), which was confirmed by the Score-CAM visualization. All networks showed high COVID-19 detection sensitivity (> 96%) with the segmented lung images. This indicates the unique radiographic signature of COVID-19 cases in the eyes of AI, which is often a challenging task for medical doctors.
Fulltext Ultra-compact quintuple-band terahertz metamaterial biosensor for enhanced blood cancer diagnostics

Hamza MN, Tariqul Islam M, Lavadiya S, Ud Din I, Sanches B, Koziel S, et al.

PLoS One, 2025;20(1):e0313874.
PMID: 39787168 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0313874

Cancer and its diverse variations pose one of the most significant threats to human health and well-being. One of the most aggressive forms is blood cancer, originating from bone marrow cells and disrupting the production of normal blood cells. The incidence of blood cancer is steadily increasing, driven by both genetic and environmental factors. Therefore, early detection is crucial as it enhances treatment outcomes and improves success rates. However, accurate diagnosis is challenging due to the inherent similarities between normal and cancerous cells. Although various techniques are available for blood cancer identification, high-frequency imaging techniques have recently shown promise, particularly for real-time monitoring. Notably, terahertz (THz) frequencies offer unique advantages for biomedical applications. This research proposes an innovative terahertz metamaterial-based biosensor for high-efficacy blood cancer detection. The proposed structure is ultra-compact and operates across five bands within the range of 0.6 to 1.2 THz. It is constructed using a polyethylene terephthalate (PET) dielectric layer and two aluminum (Al) layers, with the top layer serving as a base for the THz-range resonator. Careful design, architectural arrangement, and optimization of the geometry parameters allow for achieving nearly perfect absorption rates (>95%) across all operating bands. The properties of the proposed sensor are extensively evaluated through full-wave electromagnetic (EM) analysis, which includes assessing the refractive index and the distribution of the electric field at individual working frequencies. The suitability for blood cancer diagnosis has been validated by integrating the sensor into a microwave imaging (MWI) system and conducting comprehensive simulation studies. These studies underscore the device's capability to detect abnormalities, particularly in distinguishing between healthy and cancerous cells. Benchmarking against state-of-the-art biosensors in recent literature indicates that the proposed sensor is highly competitive in terms of major performance indicators while maintaining a compact size.
Fulltext Genetic diversity of Nipah virus in Bangladesh

Rahman MZ, Islam MM, Hossain ME, Rahman MM, Islam A, Siddika A, et al.

Int J Infect Dis, 2021 Jan;102:144-151.
PMID: 33129964 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijid.2020.10.041

BACKGROUND: Nipah virus (NiV) infection, often fatal in humans, is primarily transmitted in Bangladesh through the consumption of date palm sap contaminated by Pteropus bats. Person-to-person transmission is also common and increases the concern of large outbreaks. This study aimed to characterize the molecular epidemiology, phylogenetic relationship, and the evolution of the nucleocapsid gene (N gene) of NiV.
METHODS: We conducted molecular detection, genetic characterization, and Bayesian time-scale evolution analyses of NiV using pooled Pteropid bat roost urine samples from an outbreak area in 2012 and archived RNA samples from NiV case patients identified during 2012-2018 in Bangladesh.
RESULTS: NiV-RNA was detected in 19% (38/456) of bat roost urine samples and among them; nine N gene sequences were recovered. We also retrieved sequences from 53% (21 out of 39) of archived RNA samples from patients. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that all Bangladeshi strains belonged to NiV-BD genotype and had an evolutionary rate of 4.64 × 10-4 substitutions/site/year. The analyses suggested that the strains of NiV-BD genotype diverged during 1995 and formed two sublineages.
CONCLUSION: This analysis provides further evidence that the NiV strains of the Malaysian and Bangladesh genotypes diverged recently and continue to evolve. More extensive surveillance of NiV in bats and human will be helpful to explore strain diversity and virulence potential to infect humans through direct or person-to-person virus transmission.
Fulltext Influence of Sputtering Temperature of TiO2 Deposited onto Reduced Graphene Oxide Nanosheet as Efficient Photoanodes in Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells

Low FW, Chin Hock G, Kashif M, Samsudin NA, Chau CF, Indah Utami AR, et al.

Molecules, 2020 Oct 21;25(20).
PMID: 33096759 DOI: 10.3390/molecules25204852

Renewable solar energy is the key target to reduce fossil fuel consumption, minimize global warming issues, and indirectly minimizes erratic weather patterns. Herein, the authors synthesized an ultrathin reduced graphene oxide (rGO) nanosheet with ~47 nm via an improved Hummer's method. The TiO2 was deposited by RF sputtering onto an rGO nanosheet with a variation of temperature to enhance the photogenerated electron or charge carrier mobility transport for the photoanode component. The morphology, topologies, element composition, crystallinity as well as dye-sensitized solar cells' (DSSCs) performance were determined accordingly. Based on the results, FTIR spectra revealed presence of Ti-O-C bonds in every rGO-TiO2 nanocomposite samples at 800 cm-1. Besides, XRD revealed that a broad peak of anatase TiO2 was detected at ~25.4° after incorporation with the rGO. Furthermore, it was discovered that sputtering temperature of 120 °C created a desired power conversion energy (PCE) of 7.27% based on the J-V plot. Further increase of the sputtering temperature to 160 °C and 200 °C led to excessive TiO2 growth on the rGO nanosheet, thus resulting in undesirable charge recombination formed at the photoanode in the DSSC device.
Fulltext Optimization of process parameters for fabrication of electrospun nanofibers containing neomycin sulfate and Malva sylvestris extract for a better diabetic wound healing

Monirul Islam M, Hemmanahalli Ramesh V, Durga Bhavani P, Goudanavar PS, Naveen NR, Ramesh B, et al.

Drug Deliv, 2022 Dec;29(1):3370-3383.
PMID: 36404771 DOI: 10.1080/10717544.2022.2144963

Diabetes mellitus is one of the most concerning conditions, and its chronic consequences are almost always accompanied by infection, oxidative stress, and inflammation. Reducing excessive reactive oxygen species and the wound's inflammatory response is a necessary treatment during the acute inflammatory phase of diabetic wound healing. Malva sylvestris extract (MS) containing nanofibers containing neomycin sulfate (NS) were synthesized for this investigation, and their impact on the healing process of diabetic wounds was assessed. Using Design Expert, the electrospinning process for the fabrication of NS nanofibers (NS-NF) was adjusted for applied voltage (X1), the distance between the needle's tip and the collector (X2), and the feed rate (X3) for attaining desired entrapment efficacy [EE] and average nanofiber diameter (ND). The optimal formulation can be prepared with 19.11 kV of voltage, 20 cm of distance, and a flow rate of 0.502 mL/h utilizing the desirability approach. All the selected parameters and responses have their impact on drug delivery from nanofibers. In addition, M. sylvestris extracts have been added into the optimal formulation [MS-NS-NF] and assessed for their surface morphology, tensile strength, water absorption potential, and in vitro drug release studies. The NS and MS delivery from MS-NS-NF has been extended for more than 60 h. M. sylvestris-loaded nanofibers demonstrated superior antibacterial activity compared to plain NS nanofibers. The scaffolds featured a broad aspect and a highly linked porous fibrous network structure. Histomorphometry study and the in vitro scratch assay demonstrate the formulation's efficacy in treating diabetic wound healing. The cells treated with MS-NS-NF in vivo demonstrated that wound dressings successfully reduced both acute and chronic inflammations. To improve the healing of diabetic wounds, MS-NS-NF may be regarded as an appropriate candidate for wound dressing.
Fulltext Antihyperglycemic, Antidiabetic, and Antioxidant Effects of Garcinia pedunculata in Rats

Ali MY, Paul S, Tanvir EM, Hossen MS, Rumpa NN, Saha M, et al.

Evid Based Complement Alternat Med, 2017;2017:2979760.
PMID: 29234381 DOI: 10.1155/2017/2979760

The antihyperglycemic, antidiabetic, and antioxidant potentials of the methanolic extract of Garcinia pedunculata (GP) fruit in rats were investigated. The acute antihyperglycemic effect of different doses of GP was studied in normal male Wistar rats. Diabetes was induced by streptozotocin (STZ) injection in another cohort of male Wistar rats and they showed significantly higher blood glucose and glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) levels, altered lipid profiles, and lower insulin levels compared to nondiabetic control animals. There were increased lipid peroxidation and reduced levels of cellular antioxidant enzymes in different tissues of diabetic rats. However, oral administration of GP extracts, especially the highest dose (1000 mg/kg), significantly ameliorated hyperglycemia (42%); elevated insulin levels (165%); decreased HbA1c (29.4%); restored lipid levels (reduction in TG by 25%, TC by 15%, and LDL-C by 75% and increase in HDL-C by 4%), liver and renal function markers, and lipid peroxidation (reduction by 52% in the liver, 39% in the kidney, 44% in the heart, and 46% in the pancreas); and stimulated tissue antioxidant enzymes to near normalcy. Overall, the findings suggest that GP fruit is effective against hyperglycemia and could be used in the treatment of diabetes and its complications and other oxidative stress-mediated pathological conditions.

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