Osmania University

Recently, progress has been made toward understanding the efficiency of polymer composites with natural fibres. With the hope of enhancing the characteristics of polymer composites supplemented with natural fibres in a watery environment, TiO2 nanoparticles have been used to improve their performance in the field.

These nanoparticles were filled in luffa-epoxy components at 1, 3, and 5% volume fractions. A combination of x-ray diffraction and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy was utilized to conduct the structural examinations. The nanoparticle spread was captured by field emission scanning electron microscopy.

Results show that dry nanocomposite's tensile strength and modulus have increased by 74% and, 13%, 137%, and 50% compared with epoxy and 40 vol% luffa-epoxy (E/L) composites, respectively. In wet nanocomposites, maximum reduction in tensile strength and modulus were observed as 27.4% and 16.54%, respectively. The diminished water absorption and thickness swelling percentage of nanocomposites were recorded as 98% and 91.8%, respectively. The onset temperature of these nanocomposites was scattered in the range of 379-393°C, with a maximum char residue of 38%.

The increase in the percentage of residue indicates the effectiveness of epoxy's flame retardant, improved thermal stability, diminished water absorption (approximately 2%), and 95% retention of wet composites' tensile properties. These results provided data support for improving the application of nanocomposites in the automobile field and to develop possible patents on the new material development.

Skin cancer, a prevalent global cancer, is primarily caused by chronic environmental exposures and cellular signaling pathway deregulation. Traditional therapies like radiation, chemotherapy, and surgery face toxicity, resistance, and recurrence issues. Natural compounds, with their diverse biological activity and minimal side effects, are increasingly recognized as potential therapeutic agents. This review explores the potential of natural compounds in treating skin cancer by modifying key molecular signaling pathways, including MAPK/ERK, PI3K/Akt, NF-κB, STAT3, and Wnt/β-catenin. Curcumin, resveratrol, quercetin, epigallocatechin gallate, and genistein are natural substances known to have potent anticancer effects by inhibiting cell proliferation, promoting apoptosis, and preventing metastasis. These substances regulate inflammation, prevent angiogenesis, enhance drug effectiveness, combat multidrug resistance, and have low toxicity to healthy skin cells, indicating potential therapeutic use. Additionally, their compatibility with current chemotherapeutic drugs underscores their significant role in combating drug resistance. The review underscores the importance of understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying phytochemicals' anticancer properties to facilitate their integration into modern treatment methods. Future initiatives should focus on clinical validation, increasing bioavailability, and targeting administration schemes to maximize the therapeutic potential of natural chemicals against skin cancer.

Proanthocyanidins (PACs), a group of naturally occurring polyphenolic compounds found in a variety of fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds, have shown remarkable potential in the treatment of breast cancer (BC). These bioactive molecules exhibit antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer properties by triggering apoptosis, halting cell cycle progression, and suppressing angiogenesis and metastasis. PACs further contribute to immune modulation and regulate critical signaling pathways like PI3K/Akt and MAPK, which are closely linked to cancer development. When combined with other bioactive agents, PACs have been shown to enhance therapeutic efficacy. Advanced delivery approaches, including PAC conjugation with targeting molecules and natural biopolymers, such as proteins and polysaccharides, are being explored to improve their effectiveness. Despite increasing interest in the anticancer potential of PACs, a comprehensive analysis of their molecular mechanisms, synergistic effects, and formulation strategies specifically in the context of breast cancer is lacking. This review aims to fill that gap by compiling and critically evaluating current preclinical evidence, novel delivery approaches, and safety considerations related to PACs in breast cancer therapy. Although preclinical investigations provide encouraging evidence, the availability of clinical studies remains scarce, emphasizing the need for further exploration. The discussion also encompasses the safety profile and possible toxicological concerns of PACs, underlining their therapeutic potential and existing challenges. Despite current limitations, PACs hold promise for BC treatment, with future research aiming to refine their clinical applicability.