Cancer, a leading global cause of death responsible for nearly 10 million deaths annually, demands innovative therapeutic strategies. Intrinsic cytotoxicity and biocompatibility of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO-NPs) have rendered them promising nanoplatforms in oncology. We herein systematically review their applications for targeted cancer chemotherapy, with a focus on physicochemical properties, drug delivery mechanisms, and interactions with the tumor microenvironment (TME). We searched PubMed, SCOPUS, and Web of Science from inception through December 2024 for peer-reviewed preclinical studies on cancer models. Results were qualitatively synthesized. Quality was assessed with the SYRCLE risk of bias tool. Among 20 eligible studies, ZnO-NPs were frequently functionalized with ligands to enhance tumor targeting and minimize systemic toxicity. Chemotherapeutic agents (doxorubicin, 5-fluorouracil, docetaxel, cisplatin, gemcitabine, and tirapazamine) were loaded into ZnO-based carriers, with improved anticancer efficacy compared to free drug formulations, particularly in multidrug-resistant cell lines and in vivo murine xenografts. The mildly acidic TME was exploited for pH-responsive drug release, premature leakage reduction, and improvement of intratumoral accumulation. Enhanced therapeutic outcomes were attributed to reactive oxygen species generation, zinc ion-mediated cytotoxicity, mitochondrial dysfunction, and efflux pump inhibition. Deep tumor penetration, apoptosis induction, and tumor growth suppression were also reported, with minimal toxicity to healthy tissues. ZnO-NPs might constitute a versatile and promising strategy for targeted cancer chemotherapy, offering synergistic anticancer effects and improved safety profiles. Future studies emphasizing long-term toxicity, immune responses, and scalable production could lead to clinical translation of ZnO-based nanomedicine in oncology.

The impressive clinical picture of Charcot joint reflects a high energy trauma injury which in the contrary is a progressive, painless arthropathy. Early and accurate diagnosis is crucial. A favorable outcome is elicited when joint is treated promptly, while late or misdiagnosis may lead to amputation.

Introduction: The rapid growth of e-commerce has driven the global expansion of food delivery services. Delivery riders are exposed to multiple occupational hazards due to time pressure, long working hours, and physically demanding tasks. Despite their essential role, research on their health and safety remains fragmented. Methods: This review followed the PRISMA 2020 guidelines. A systematic search was conducted in the MEDLINE and Scopus databases. Only cross-sectional studies involving adult food delivery workers were included. Studies focusing on any type of accident or work-related health problem were considered. Other study designs, such as systematic reviews, were excluded. Studies involving non-food delivery workers or participants under 18 years of age were also excluded. The search was conducted only in English. Keywords and phrases such as “work,” “accidents,” and “delivery rider” were used with Boolean operators. The methodological quality of the included studies was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) Critical Appraisal Checklist for Prevalence Studies. Results: Occupational hazards were grouped into four categories. Traffic risks included speeding, running red lights, and mobile phone use while driving, with younger and less experienced riders showing a higher risk of accidents. Ergonomic risks were associated with prolonged sitting, vibration exposure, and repetitive movements, contributing to musculoskeletal disorders, particularly in the lower back, neck, and shoulders. Psychosocial risks included stress, burnout, verbal or physical abuse, and job insecurity. Socioeconomic factors, such as dependence on delivery income and lower educational levels, further increased vulnerability and limited access to preventive measures. Conclusion: Food delivery workers face multidimensional risks that affect physical health, mental well-being, and road safety. Addressing these challenges requires comprehensive interventions, including road safety training, ergonomic improvements, psychosocial support, protective equipment, and improved working conditions to reduce accidents and protect worker health.