Nanoparticles In Cancer Drug Delivery: Recent Advances, Therapeutic Applications And Challenges

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Cancer is one of the major causes of Mortality around the world, Despite Having significant advances in diagnosis and treatment. Conventional therapeutic-based approaches such as chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and surgeries are often limited due to poor selectivity, Toxicity, inadequate accumulation of drugs at tumor sites, and development of resistance to multi-drugs. Nanotechnology has developed as a better platform for improving Cancer treatment through the development of Nanoparticle based System of drug delivery. These nanoparticles have unique Physical and chemical properties that include It’s nano scale size, Large surface area and its characteristics, enhanced drug-loaded capacity and controlled release of the drugs. These kind of properties helps to fight cancer cells by minimising damage to the healthy tissues. Various kinds of nanoparticles, Such as dendrimers, metallic nanoparticles, liposomes, and hybrid nano carriers, result in better therapeutic Outcomes in preclinical and clinical studies. Recent advancements Which include Smart Nanoparticles, gene delivery systems, Immunotherapy based Nanomedicines and environment responsive drug delivery systems for tumors, Etc. These nanoparticle-based therapies have a better potential for multi-drug resistance and enhance the treatment efficiency. Despite having these advancements, there are also some challenges Which includes toxicity, Biological effects, Manufacturing And regulatory approval. This affects its widespread use for clinical treatments. This review therefore summarizes the recent developments, therapeutic applications, challenges, and future perspectives of Nanoparticle based cancer drug delivery systems.

Comparative Evaluation of Yield and Agronomic Traits of Four Winter Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) Varieties under the Agro-Climatic Conditions of Char Asiab District, Kabul, Afghanistan

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Winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) is a staple cereal crops that provides income and support the livelihoods of local farmers of Afghanistan, while also playing a vital role in food security. It is a major source of carbohydrates and proteins for human consumption, while its straw is commonly used as livestock feed in Afghanistan. yet productivity remains below potential due to limited availability of locally adapted improved varieties. This study evaluated the agronomic performance, yield, and yield-related traits of four winter wheat varieties (Sohla 02, Sohla 018, Chont, and local variety Riza Gul) under irrigated conditions in Char Asiab District, Kabul, during the 2024–2025 growing season. Using a Randomized Complete Block Design with three replications, the data was analyzed with Statistical Tools for Agricultural Research (STAR 2.0.1) software. significant varietal differences were observed for most traits. Result showed that Sohla 018 produced the highest grain yield (4,866.67 kg ha⁻¹), 1000-grain weight (44.36 g), and grains per spike (51.11). While Sohla 02 showed superior vegetative growth, this did not translate to higher yield. The findings identify Sohla 018 as the most suitable variety for cultivation in Char Asiab District, with potential to improve wheat productivity and contribute to food security in Afghanistan.

Impact of Different Levels of Chicken Manure on the Growth and Yield of Common Bean (Phaseolus vulgaris-L.) under the Agro-Climatic Conditions of Kabul

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Common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris-L.)  is one of the most popular pulse crops, providing substantial economic benefits in the farming communities of Afghanistan, and it is for both food security and income generation. it is an important source of calories, proteins, dietary fibers, minerals, and vitamins for millions of people in both developing and developed countries worldwide. Organic fertilizers play an important role in the growth, yield, and yield attributes of beans. To study this, an experiment was conducted at the Agriculture Faculty of Kabul University during, (2025) growing season, examining the effects of three different levels of chicken manure (control, 10 t/ha-1, 15 t/ha-1, and 20 t/ha-1) on the yield and yield components of common beans (Phaseolus vulgaris -L.) under Kabul’s Agro-climatic conditions. Different crop agronomic traits, including to the growth and yield parameters such as plant height, number of branches per plant, number of leaves per plant, number of pods per plant, number of seeds per pod, biological weight t/ha-1 100-seeds weight, and grain yield t/ ha-1.  The experiment was conducted in a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD), and the data were analyzed with Statistical Tools for Agricultural Research (STAR 2.0.1) software. The results of research indicated that different levels of chicken manure had significant effects on all studied traits (plant height, number of branches/plant, leaves number/plants, number of pods/ plants, number of seeds /pods, one hundred seed weight and seed yield t/ha-1), According to statistical analysis, 20 t/ha-1 chicken manure improved growth and yield characters of common bean. For increased productivity of common beans in Kabul climate, the farmers are recommended to apply a proper dose of chicken manure.

Phosphate Removal from Laundry Wastewater Using a Hybrid Biofilter–Phytoremediation System with Broken Roof Tile Media and Chlorella sp.

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Laundry wastewater is one of the primary sources of phosphate discharge into aquatic environments due to the extensive use of phosphate-based detergents. Excessive phosphate concentrations in aquatic environments can accelerate eutrophication, leading to excessive algal growth, depletion of dissolved oxygen, and ecological imbalance. Therefore, there is a need to develop an efficient, economical, and environmentally friendly treatment system. This study evaluated the performance of a hybrid biofilter-phytoremediation system using broken roof tiles as the biofilter medium and Chlorella sp. as the phytoremediation agent to reduce phosphate levels in laundry wastewater. The experiment consisted of three treatment groups: wastewater (control), a biofilter with microalgae (BF+MA), and a biofilter containing broken roof tile fragments combined with microalgae (BFg+MA). Wastewater quality was monitored through several sampling periods, and phosphate concentration was analyzed as the primary parameter. Supporting parameters, including pH, dissolved oxygen, ammonia, nitrate, total suspended solids, and temperature, were also evaluated. The data were analyzed using Welch’s ANOVA to assess differences among treatments. When significant differences were found, the analysis was continued with the Games–Howell post hoc test at a 95% confidence level (α = 0.05). The results showed that the hybrid system effectively reduced phosphate concentrations in laundry wastewater. Phosphate removal was attributed to adsorption by the broken roof tile media, microbial activity within the biofilm, and nutrient assimilation by Chlorella sp. Changes in supporting water quality parameters indicated favorable conditions for biological and physicochemical treatment processes. These findings suggest that the hybrid biofilter-phytoremediation system has significant potential as a sustainable and low-cost alternative for laundry wastewater treatment.

Agribusiness Challenges and the Impact of Contract Farming on Market Access among Small-scale Bean Farmers in Pabna District, Bangladesh

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This study explores agribusiness challenges and examines the impact of contract farming on market access among small-scale bean farmers in Pabna District, Bangladesh. The study aimed to understand farmers’ experiences regarding production constraints, institutional relationships, market participation, and livelihood conditions within contract farming arrangements. A qualitative case study approach was employed to obtain in-depth insights from farmers and relevant stakeholders. Data were collected through in-depth interviews, focus group discussions, key informant interviews, observation, and documentation involving contract farmers, non-contract farmers, agricultural extension officers, and agribusiness representatives. The collected data were analyzed using thematic analysis supported by NVivo software. The findings reveal that small-scale bean farmers face several agribusiness challenges, including price instability, high input costs, weak bargaining power, limited access to formal markets, and dependence on intermediaries. Participation in contract farming was found to improve market access through stable buyer linkages, technical assistance, input support, and greater price certainty. However, farmers also experienced challenges such as delayed payments, unequal bargaining relationships, limited transparency in contractual agreements, and dependence on contracting firms. The study concludes that contract farming has the potential to strengthen market integration and improve farmers’ livelihoods when supported by transparent agreements, institutional coordination, and fair governance mechanisms. The findings provide practical implications for policymakers, agribusiness firms, and rural development practitioners in promoting inclusive and sustainable agribusiness systems in Bangladesh.

Farming Efficiency of Pest and Disease Control Techniques on The Efficiency of Shallot (Allium ascalonicum L.) Farming in Local Agricultura Areas in Timor-Leste

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Agriculture is one of Timor-Leste’s most important economic sectors, providing a living for the vast majority of the population. The key issue for shallot producers in Timor-Leste’s local agricultural areas is the high intensity of plant pest organism attacks, which has an impact on production costs and revenue. The purpose of this study is to determine how pest and disease control approaches affect the efficiency of shallot (Allium ascalonium L.) cultivation in Timor-Leste’s local agricultural areas. This study employs a quantitative approach, collecting primary data from farmers via surveys, structured interviews, and questionnaires administered to a sample of 10 shallot farmers and 40 respondents in the study area, and analyzing farming efficiency using the Linear Regression Analysis method implemented in SPSS version 22. This study found that, when compared to other ways, the use of integrated control in shallot cultivation is the most profitable and efficient. With a production of 3,700-4,320 kg and a consistent selling price of $3.50, total production costs (TC) range from $660 to $785. The t-test results showed that the variables Chemical Use (X1), Biological Use (X2), and Integrated Control (X4) all had a significant and positive effect on the dependent variables. The use of biological uses (X4) was the most significant factor, with a tcal value of 6,715, demonstrating that chemical technology intervention is still the principal driver of agricultural efficiency at this research site. The model accounts for 69% of the variance in farming efficiency (R² = 0.690). As a result, expanding farmer training and extension programs on integrated pest management (IPM) is critical for improving sustainable pest control and increasing the efficiency of shallot farming in Timor-Leste. So extension and training initiatives on integrated pest management (IPM) techniques should be strengthened to help farmers manage pests more efficiently and sustainably.

Land Suitability Analysis of Coffee (Coffea arabica), Pineapple (Ananas comosus) and Mango (Mangifera indica) for Sustainable Agriculture and Food Security in Burkina Faso, West Africa

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Land suitability assessment is critical for sustainable agricultural planning, especially in Burkina Faso’s Sudano-Sahelian zone, where soil deterioration and nutrient deficits limit perennial crop development. Pineapple, coffee, and mango are commercially attractive crops that have the potential to diversify rural livelihoods and increase food security. The objective of this study is to evaluate the land suitability for pineapple, coffee, and mango based on the soil physical and chemical properties in Saaba. A soil profile was conducted to determine the physical features, and soil samples were collected and examined to determine the chemical characteristics. Physical soil parameters, such as texture, rooting medium, and depth, showed high appropriateness (S1) for pineapple and mango. However, coffee was classified as not suitable (N) because to its shallow soil depth (<40 cm). Chemical characteristics indicated an appropriate pH (5.7-5.8). Exchangeable potassium (48.54-79.25 mg/kg) was consistently classed as highly suitable (S1) across all crops. However, available phosphorus levels were dangerously low (0.88-2.44 mg/kg), resulting in a “not suitable” (N) rating for all samples and crops. Organic matter differed significantly: Sample 1 (0.73% OM) was classed as non-suitable for all crops, whereas Samples 2 and 3 were moderately acceptable (S2) for pineapple and mango but only marginally appropriate (S3) for coffee. The primary limitations to land suitability for perennial crops in the study area are severe phosphorus deficiency and organic matter depletion. Although pH and potassium are favorable, sustainable production of pineapple, coffee, and mango requires interventions such as phosphorus fertilization and organic matter restoration. Pineapple and mango are more adaptable to current soil conditions, while coffee should be grown in areas with higher organic matter and robust soil management.

Comparison of Anxiety Levels Between Primigravida and Multigravida Pregnant Women in the Working Area of Bola Community Health Center, Sikka Regency

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Background: Anxiety during pregnancy is a common mental health concern arising from physiological and psychological changes that may adversely affect both maternal and fetal well-being. Primigravida women may experience heightened anxiety due to their first exposure to pregnancy, whereas anxiety among multigravida women may be shaped by previous pregnancy experiences. Anxiety that is not adequately managed during pregnancy may result in significant physical and psychological consequences, including prolonged labor, preeclampsia, postpartum depression, and developmental impairments in the infant.

Objective: This study aimed to compare anxiety levels between primigravida and multigravida pregnant women in the working area of Bola Community Health Center Sikka Regency.

Methods: This quantitative study employed an analytical observational design with a cross-sectional approach. Stratified random sampling was used to recruit 40 pregnant women, consisting of 18 primigravida and 22 multigravida participants. Data were analyzed using the Shapiro–Wilk test for normality and the Mann–Whitney test for group comparison.

Results: No significant difference in anxiety levels was observed between primigravida and multigravida participants, with p-value 0.095 (p > 0.05).

Conclusion: Anxiety levels did not differ significantly between primigravida and multigravida pregnant women in the working area of Bola Community Health Center Sikka Regency.

Ethnomedicinal Plants Used by Tribes of Durg, Chhattisgarh

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The tribal communities of Durg district in Chhattisgarh possess a rich heritage of traditional knowledge, particularly in the use of ethnomedicinal plants for healthcare and healing practices. This study explores the various medicinal plants employed by these tribes to treat a range of ailments, including fever, skin diseases, digestive disorders, and respiratory issues. Field surveys, interviews with local healers, and participatory observations revealed that a diverse range of plant species, primarily sourced from local forests and farmlands, are used in traditional remedies. The knowledge passed down through generations, highlights the sustainable and holistic approach of indigenous communities toward healthcare. However, increasing modernization and loss of natural habitats threaten this traditional wisdom. Documenting and preserving this ethnomedicinal knowledge not only help in cultural conservation but also offers potential leads for the development of novel drugs in modern medicine.

Study on the Utilization of Nickel (Ni) on the Growth and Yield of Mutant Sugarcane

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Enhancing national sugar productivity through the development of mutant sugarcane varieties necessitates precise nutrient management, particularly regarding the efficiency of nitrogen metabolism. Nickel (Ni) plays a vital role as an essential cofactor for the urease enzyme in hydrolyzing urea; however, its requirement thresholds in mutant genotypes require in-depth investigation to mitigate phytotoxicity risks. This study aims to evaluate the interactive effects of Nickel micronutrient on growth parameters, physiological responses, and yield components in the Bululawang sugarcane genotype and its mutant clones. The research employed a factorial Randomized Block Design (RBD), testing four sugarcane genotypes (M1: Bululawang, M2, M3, and M4) against four Nickel concentration levels (0 ppm, 0.25 ppm, 0.5 ppm, and 1 ppm). Observed parameters included vegetative growth, total tissue nitrogen, and yield components such as pol, sugar recovery rateand cane yield. Results indicated that Nickel application at 0.25 ppm elicited the most optimal response across nearly all parameters. Physiologically, this concentration stimulated urease activity, ensuring nitrogen availability for chlorophyll biosynthesis and vegetative growth. The M2 genotype treated with 0.25 ppm Nickel recorded superior production performance, yielding a cane weight of 117.64 tons/ha. Conversely, increasing the concentration to 1 ppm triggered oxidative stress mechanisms and impaired nutrient assimilation, leading to a drastic decline in all agronomic parameters. It is concluded that low-dose Nickel supplementation (0.25 ppm) effectively enhances mutant sugarcane productivity via the optimization of nitrogen metabolism, whereas excessive doses prove destructive to the plant.