bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mitochondrial unfolded protein response (mtUPR) and diseases
Authors: Sun Lin , Yang Ming , Luo Shilu , Chen Wei , He Liyu , Liu Di , Wang Xi , Xiao Li
Published: August 2023

Mitochondria are the energy factories of cells, and their functions are closely related to cell homeostasis. The mitochondrial unfolded protein response (mtUPR) is a newly discovered mechanism for regulating mitochondrial homeostasis. When unfolded/misfolded proteins accumulate in mitochondria, the mitochondria release signals that regulate the transcription of certain proteins in the nucleus, thereby inducing the correct folding or degradation of proteins in mitochondria. Many studies have also shown that an abnormality of mtUPR is closely related to the occurrence and development of diseases. Here, we summarized the pathways regulating mtUPR signaling and reviewed the research progress on mtUPR in diseases. Finally, we summarized the currently identified agonists and inhibitors of the mtUPR and discussed the potential of the mtUPR as a therapeutic target for diseases.
Evaluation of Treatments with Radiotherapy Alone and Radiotherapy Plus Chemo-immunotherapy in Patients with Primary Liver Cancer based on Blood Biomarkers
Authors: Huang Shigao , Yin Yutian , Li Jianping , Shi Mei , Bian Huijie , Zhao Lina
Published: August 2023

Purpose:

It is critical to assess primary liver cancer patients likely to benefit from radiotherapy
(RT) or RT plus chemo-immunotherapy. Many potential peripheral biomarkers from blood
samples have been proposed for clinical application. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate
treatments with radiotherapy alone and radiotherapy plus chemo-immunotherapy in patients
with unresectable primary liver cancer based on blood biomarkers.

Methods:

From January, 2017, to February, 2022, 63 unresectable primary liver cancer patients receiving
radiotherapy alone (RT, n = 21) or radiotherapy plus chemo-immunotherapy (RT plus
C/IT, n = 42) were included in this study. We compared the clinical outcomes and adverse effects
of these two groups. Also, distant metastasis-free survival (DMFS), overall survival (OS), and progress-
free survival (PFS) were retrospectively analyzed. Finally, univariable and multivariable Cox
analyses were used to explore the prognostic role of blood biochemical biomarkers.

Results:

In this study, 1, 2, and 3 years of OS after RT treatment were 63.9%, 27.0%, and 13.5%,
and after RT plus C/IT were 68.2%, 37.0%, and 24.7%, respectively (p = 0.617). Compared with
baseline, white blood cells (WBC) and lymphocytes were significantly decreased after RT (p =
0.002 and p = 0.001, respectively) or RT plus C/IT therapy (p = 0.135 and p<0.001, respectively).
In multivariable Cox regression analyses, higher lymphocyte counts before RT (pre-Lymphocyte)
were associated with better OS and PFS (HR=0.439, p = 0.023; HR=0.539, p = 0.053; respectively),
and higher lymphocyte counts before RT (pre- Platelets) were a poor prognostic factor associated
with DMFS (HR=1.013, p = 0.040). Importantly, OS and PFS were significantly better for patients
(pre-Lymphocyte ≥1.10 x 109/L) (p = 0.006; p = 0.066, respectively). The DMFS was significantly
better for patients (pre-platelets < 233.5 ×109/L) (p<0.001).

Conclusion:

Our evaluation of blood biomarkers before and after radiotherapy or plus chem-immunotherapy
for primary liver cancer revealed a potential marker for clinics to decide on precise
treatment strategies.
Eight Weeks of Vitamin C Supplementation Restores the Lost Correlation
between Serum Leptin and C-reactive Protein (CRP) in Patients with Type 2
Diabetes; A Randomized, Double-blind, Parallel-group, Placebo-controlled
Clinical Trial
Authors: Mohammadi Ali , Rabizadeh Soghra , Mirmoosavi Saeed , Alemi Hamid , Mirmiranpoor Hossein , Bagheri Sayna , Moradi Kamyar , Esteghamati Alireza , Nakhjavani Manouchehr
Published: August 2023

Objective:

Inflammation is a well-described factor in the pathophysiology of type 2 diabetes mellitus
(DM), which has been a suspect in the alteration of correlations between CRP and leptin in patients with type 2
DM.

Aim:

This study aimed to show the effect of vitamin C as an antioxidant on the correlation of the serum levels
of C-reactive protein (CRP) and leptin in patients with type 2 DM.

Methods:

We recruited 70 patients with longstanding T2DM and randomly assigned them into two groups; one
received 500 mg/day of vitamin C, and the other received a placebo for eight weeks. Both groups were matched
regarding baseline characteristics such as age, gender, weight, and diabetic medications.

Results:

Out of 70 individuals, 57 participants were left in the study. After eight weeks of follow-up, leptin level
was significantly increased in the Vitamin C group (MD = 3.48 change = 24%, p-value = 0.001) but did not
change in the placebo group. Other markers such as Fasting plasma glucose, HbA1c, Creatinine, uric acid,
Urea, cholesterol, HDL, LDL, TG, AST, ALT, insulin, and CRP did not significantly change in both groups (p
value > 0.05). The significant changes in the leptin level among the vitamin C group also remained after controlling
for age, BMI, Blood pressure (BP), Triglyceride (TG), and cholesterol. Also, the correlation between
serum CRP and leptin became significant in the vitamin C group after eight weeks of follow-up but not in the
placebo group. (rs = 0.730, p < 0.001 vs. rs = 0.286, p-value = 0.266 in placebo group).

Conclusion:

This study shows vitamin C can restore CRP-leptin correlation in patients with type 2 diabetes and
increase serum leptin levels. More studies are needed to clarify the mechanism of this restoration.

Clinical Trial Registration Number:

IRCT20160811029306N1.
Protein Engineering in Cyanobacterial Biotechnology: Tools and Recent
Updates
Authors: Tyagi Swati , Kar Srabani , Srivastava Amit , Shukla Pratyoosh
Published: August 2023

Cyanobacteria have emerged as a microbial cell factory to produce a variety of bioproducts,
including peptides and proteins. Cyanobacteria stand out among other organisms due to their
photoautotrophic metabolism and ability to produce a wide range of metabolites. As photoautotrophic
hosts can produce industrial compounds and proteins by using minimal resources such as
sunlight, atmospheric carbon dioxide, and fewer nutrients, cyanobacteria are cost-effective industrial
hosts. Therefore, the use of protein engineering tools for rational protein design, and the desired
modification of enzyme activity has become a desirable undertaking in cyanobacterial biology.
Protein engineering can improve their biological functions as well as the stability of their intracellular
proteins. This review aims to highlight the success of protein engineering in the direction
of cyanobacterial biotechnology and outlines the emerging technologies, current challenges, and
prospects of protein engineering in cyanobacterial biotechnology.
Current Insight on the Role of Glucokinase and Glucokinase Regulatory
Protein in Diabetes
Authors: Paliwal Ajita , Paliwal Vartika , Jain Smita , Paliwal Sarvesh , Sharma Swapnil
Published: August 2023

The glucokinase regulator (GCKR) gene encodes an inhibitor of the glucokinase enzyme
(GCK), found only in hepatocytes and responsible for glucose metabolism. A common GCKR coding
variation has been linked to various metabolic traits in genome-wide association studies. Rare GCKR
polymorphisms influence GKRP activity, expression, and localization. Despite not being the cause,
these variations are linked to hypertriglyceridemia. Because of their crystal structures, we now better
understand the molecular interactions between GKRP and the GCK. Finally, small molecules that
specifically bind to GKRP and decrease blood sugar levels in diabetic models have been identified.
GCKR allelic spectrum changes affect lipid and glucose homeostasis. GKRP dysfunction has been
linked to a variety of molecular causes, according to functional analysis. Numerous studies have
shown that GKRP dysfunction is not the only cause of hypertriglyceridemia, implying that type 2 diabetes
could be treated by activating liver-specific GCK via small molecule GKRP inhibition. The review
emphasizes current discoveries concerning the characteristic roles of glucokinase and GKRP in
hepatic glucose metabolism and diabetes. This information has influenced the growth of directed molecular
therapies for diabetes, which has improved our understanding of lipid and glucose physiology.
Connection-Based Zagreb Indices of Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons Structures
Authors: Usman Muhammad , Javaid Muhammad
Published: August 2023

Background::

Topological indices (TIs) are mathematical formulas that are applied in mathematical chemistry to predict the physical and chemical properties of various chemical structures. In this study, three different types of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon structures (PAHs) (i.e., Hexa-peri-hexabenzocoronene, Dodeca-benzo-circumcoronene, and Hexa-cata- hexabenzocoronene) are studied with the help of the different connection number-based Zagreb indices.

Materials and Methods:

ϑ = (V(ϑ),E(ϑ)) is used as a graph, where V(ϑ) is a collection of vertices and E(ϑ) is a collection of edges. For a vertex y, ∈V(ϑ), the degree d_ϑ (y), is the number of those vertices that are at a distance of 1 from y and the connection number ρ_ϑ (y) is the number of such vertices that are at a distance of 2 from vertex y.

Results::

Theoretical applications of topological indices were described in detail

Conclusion::

Finally, we obtained the first and second Zagreb connections as well as the modified first, second, third, and fourth Zagreb connection indices, which were calculated for three different types (Hexa-peri-hexabenzocorone, Dodeca-benzo-circumcoronene, and Hexa-cata-hexabenzocoronene) of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon structures.
Potent Small Molecules Inhibitors Discovery through Ligand-based Modelling for Effective Treatment of Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Yahaya Sani Najib , Oloruntoyin Yusuf Ayipo , Alananzeh Waleed Abdullah Ahmad , Ajmal Amar , Shams Sulaiman , Wadood Abdul , Bn Mordi Mohd Nizam
Published: August 2023

Background:

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a chronic neurodegenerative disease affecting mostly aged people. The disease's symptoms develop gradually over time and include tremors, bradykinesia, rigidity, and postural instability. Current treatment options for PD are only symptom-targeted. Prolyl oligopeptidase (POP) is a serine protease enzymes implicated in PD pathogenesis via an increase in the aggregation of α-synuclein protein in the brain.

Aim:

This study aims to identify potent anti-PD ligands with inhibitory potential against POP

Methods:

Ligand-based pharmacophore modeling, Glide extra precision (XP) docking, and post-simulation analysis methods were used.

Results:

The adopted ligand-based (LB) modeling generated pharmacophoric features, including 1 hydrophobic group, 1 positive ionizable group, 2 aromatic rings, and 2 hydrogen bond acceptors. A total of 23 hits with a Gunner-Henry score of 0.7 and an enrichment factor of 30.24 were obtained as validation protocols, making it an ideal model. The LB model retrieved 177 hit compounds from the 69,543 natural screening ligands available in the Interbioscreen database. Interestingly, ligands 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 orderly demonstrated higher binding affinities with Glide XP docking of -9.0, -8.8, -8.7, -8.7, -8.7 kcal/mol compared to reference drugs, GSK552 and ZPP with -8.2, and -6.8 kcal/mol respectively. Similarly, their MM/GBSA values were recorded as -54.4, -51.3, -58.4, -49.3, - 33.5, & -32.5 kJ/mol respectively. Further, MD analysis indicated that ligands had higher favorable binding and stability to the receptor.

Conclusion:

Overall, the study paves the way for developing potential anti-PD therapeutics. The ligands are recommended as adjuvant/single candidate as anti-PD candidates upon further experiment.
Phytosomal Curcumin and Shilajit Decrease Adhesion Bands Post-achilles Tendon Surgery in Animal Model
Authors: Asgharzadeh Fereshteh , Nazari Seyedeh Elnaz , Naeimi Hamideh , Rahmani Farzad , Avan Amir , Khazaei Majid , Hassanian Seyed Mahdi
Published: August 2023

Aim:

This study aimed to investigate the protective effects of phytosomal curcumin and/or
shilajit in reducing post-surgical tendon adhesion band formation in a rat model.

Background:

Tendon adhesion is one of the severe complications after tendon surgery which causes limited
tendon movement and functional disability.

Objective:

According to the central role of inflammatory reactions in fibrosis and the formation of tendon
adhesions, we investigated the therapeutic effects of phytosomal curcumin and shilajit either alone or in
combination on reducing post-surgical tendon adhesion band formation in a rat model.

Methods:

We randomly divided 36 Wistar male rats into six equal groups. (A) Control group with no
surgical incision and no intervention. (B) Sham group with surgical incision, but no adhesion, (C) Positive
control group with total surgical transection and adhesion receiving normal saline daily, (D-F) Treatment
groups which are the same as group C except that rats were treated with the following drugs. Phytosomal
curcumin alone (250 μL/day; orally), shilajit alone (500 mg/kg/day; orally) and a combination of phytosomal
curcumin + shilajit. In groups with surgical intervention, the rats' Achilles tendons were cut and
repaired with a modified Kessler technique. At 3 weeks, all rats were euthanized. Histological and pathological
scoring systems were used to evaluate the protective effects of phytosomal curcumin and/or shilajit
in reducing adhesion bands at the site of tendon injuries.

Results:

Our results revealed that the administration of phytosomal curcumin and/or shilajit remarkably
reduced length, density, grading, severity, and thickness of post-surgical adhesion bands. Compared to the
untreated control group, the histological changes and inflammatory reactions were significantly attenuated
in treated rats. Furthermore, treatment with phytosomal curcumin and/or shilajit inhibited fibrotic responses
by alleviating collagen deposition, fibrosis quantity, fibrosis grading, and total fibrosis scores, as
visualized by Masson’s trichrome staining.

Conclusion:

Our findings indicated the anti-inflammatory and anti-fibrotic properties of phytosomal curcumin
and/or shilajit supporting their therapeutic potential in preventing post-operative tendon adhesion bands.
The Synthesis and Pharmacological Activity of Ursolic Acid Derivatives Modified at C-28 and C-3 Sites
Authors: Deng Jiawen , Zhang Si , Tan Yan , Zhou Jing , Liu Meiling , Yang Zehua , Yao Xu , Mi Pengbing , Zheng Xing
Published: August 2023

:

Ursolic acid (UA) is a widely distributed triterpenoid in nature. Due to its easy availability and
multiple pharmacological activities, ursolic acid has attracted much attention in the field of medicine and
pharmacology. To overcome the disadvantages of bioavailability and poor water solubility during the
ursolic acid application, we focused on the synthetic and medicinal properties of UA derivatives modified
at C-3 and C-28 sites. This review presents the synthesis of UA derivatives with modification at C-3 and
C-28 sites and their pharmacological activity, which may provide some important information for further
research and development of UA-based drugs.
Invasive Fungal Infections in the Paediatric Intensive Care Unit: A Hong
Kong Study
Authors: Li Mario Wai Tung , Hon Kam Lun , Yan Leung Karen Ka , Hui Wun Fung , Lung David Christopher , Ha Shau Yin
Published: August 2023

Introduction:

Invasive fungal infections (IFI) cause significant mortality and morbidity in the Paediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU). Early recognition and prompt treatment of invasive fungal infections are important. This article reviewed the mortality and morbidity of IFIs in the PICU of Hong Kong Children’s Hospital.

Methods:

A retrospective review of all PICU admissions from April 2019 to May 2021 was per-formed. The following data were retrieved: age, gender, diagnosis, comorbidity, clinical manifestation, type of fungus, duration of stay at PICU, absolute neutrophil count, use of immunosuppressive therapy, presence of central venous catheter and use of total parental nutrition. The primary out-comes were the incidence and mortality of IFIs among PICU patients. The secondary outcomes were risk factors for developing IFI in PICU and clinical course of IFIs. Numerical variables were compared between groups by Mann-Whitney U test and categorical variables by Fisher’s exact test.

Results:

There were 692 PICU admissions over the study period from April 2019 to May 2021. The crude mortality was 3% (n=24 death cases) in the PICU. Fourteen patients (2%) fulfilling the criteria for IFIs were identified using hospital electronic record system and according to PICU documentation. Eight of these 14 patients (57%) had hematological malignancy, 2 (17%) had solid tumours and 4 had non-oncological conditions. Eight (57%) patients were neutropenic with absolute neutrophil count less than 1x 109 at diagnosis of IFI. Ten (71%) had received immunosuppressive therapy including steroid, cyclosporin A, Mycophenolate mofetil (MMF), Sirolimus or tacrolimus. 12 (86%) had had central venous catheter. Eight (57%) were on parenteral nutrition. IFIs due to Rhizopus or Aspergillus infection (5/14), or in post-haematopoietic stem cell transplant patients (5/14) were as-sociated with non-survival (p = 0.031).

Conclusion:

All patients with IFIs managed in the PICU had haemato-oncology diseases or were recipients of stem cell transplantation. IFIs with Rhizopus or Aspergillus as a group were associated with high mortality in the PICU. Awareness of this pathology with prompt diagnosis and treatment may improve the outcome of these infections and reduce the mortality.
Proximate Analysis and Digestibility of Modified Corn Flour
Authors: Sukainah Andi , Lawa Suheldy , Putra Reski Praja , Fadilah Ratnawaty
Published: August 2023

The quality of corn flour can improve through a modification process. The modification
method that can be done to improve the characteristics of corn flour is through a controlled fermentation process accompanied by pregelatinization. This study aims to determine the effect modification of corn flour by spontaneous fermentation, controlled fermentation using Lactobacillus
fabifermentans or Aspergillus sp culture and mixed culture of L. fabifermentans and Aspergillus sp
(1:3) followed by pregelatinization at 80ºC for 15 minutes. The treatment variables in this study
were spontaneous fermentation, controlled fermentation using single cultures of L. fabifermentans
or Aspergillus sp., and mixed cultures of these microbes with a ratio of 1:3. This study consisted of
4 treatments with three groups each. This research is an experimental study using Randomized
Block Design (RBD). Observation variables in this study were proximates tests (moisture content,
ash, protein, fat, and carbohydrates) and starch digestibility. The data were processed using the
SPSS version 22 program, with the method analysis of variance (ANOVA), and continued with
Duncan’s Multiple Range Test (DMRT). The results of variance analysis from spontaneous fermentation treatments, single culture fermentation of L. fabifermentans or Aspergillus sp, and mixed
cultures of L. fabifermentans and Aspergillus sp (1:3) gave significant effect on moisture content,
fat, carbohydrates, and starch digestibility of modified corn flour. The best-modified corn flour was
obtained by controlled fermentation treatment using L. fabifermentans followed by pregelatinization
with characteristics of moisture content 14.46%, ash 0.13%, protein 7.41%, fat 0.65%, carbohydrates 80.06%, and starch digestibility 87.15%.
Cytoreductive Surgery Plus Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy
(HIPEC) in Patients with Advanced Ovarian Cancer: A 2-year Survival
Analysis Study
Authors: Farzaneh Farah , Ashtiani Azadeh Jafari , Bohlooli Mehrdad , Hosseini Maryam Sadat
Published: August 2023

Background:

During the last few years, Cytoreductive Surgery plus Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal
Chemotherapy (HIPEC) has entered the national comprehensive cancer network guidelines as
a new protocol for improving patients’ outcomes. However, there is no consensus on its long-term efficiency,
and it still is under debate.

Objectives:

This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of Cytoreductive Surgery Plus hyperthermic
intraperitoneal chemotherapy in patients with advanced ovarian cancer in Iran.

Method:

Thirty patients with Stage IIIc and IV advanced ovarian cancer underwent cytoreductive surgery
plus hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy at Jam Hospital with a fixed surgical team in Tehran,
Iran, from 2019 to 2021. Fourteen patients were new cases, and sixteen of them were recurrent cases.
At the end of cytoreductive surgery, by using a hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy device, Cisplatin
was circulated in the peritoneal cavity for 90 minutes at a dose of 80-100 mg/ m2 at 43°C.

Results:

Among 30 patients with 54.97±10.74 years of mean age, the mean overall survival was
564.967 days, and 2-year survival rates were 66.7%. According to Fisher's exact test, there was a statistically
significant relationship between disease-free after surgery and mortality rate (p=0.00). However,
there was no statistically significant relationship between recurrence after surgery and mortality
rate (p=0.093).

Conclusion:

Based on these findings, cytoreductive surgery plus hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy
had a survival rate of 66.7% within two years in advanced ovarian cancer patients. However,
to achieve better results, careful selection of patients and complete cytoreductive surgery should be
performed.
Hibiscus sabdariffa Linn. Extract Increases the mRNA Expression of the
Arcuate Nucleus Leptin Receptor and is Predicted in silico as an Anti-obesity
Agent
Authors: Kartinah Neng Tine , Anggraini Suci , Fadilah Fadilah , Rickie Rickie
Published: August 2023

Background:

Leptin is predominant in regulating body weight by stimulating energy
expenditure through its neuronal action in the brain. Moreover, it is projected to adipose tissue
and induces adipocyte browning by activating the β3-adrenergic receptor (β3AR). However, the
expression of leptin receptor (Lep-R) and β3AR in people with obesity is downregulated.

Aim:

We hypothesized that Hibiscus sabdariffa Linn. extract (HSE) would increase hypothalamus
arcuate nucleus (ARC) Lep-R and white adipose tissue (WAT) β3AR mRNA expression in DIO
rats. This study also analyzed the potency of H. sabdariffa bioactive compounds as activators of
Lep-R and β3AR by an in-silico experiment

Methods:

Twenty-four male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into four groups: Control (standard
food), DIO (high-fat diet), DIO-Hib200 (HFD+HSE 200 mg/kg BW), and DIO-Hib400
(HFD+HSE400 mg/kg BW). HSE was administered orally for five weeks, once a day.

Results:

HSE administration significantly (p <0,05) increased the ARC Lep-R expression. The
Lee index significantly decreased to the normal range (≤ 310) with p <0,001 for DIO-Hib200 and
p <0,01 for DIO-Hib400. Among 39 bioactive compounds, 5-O-caffeoyl shikimic acid exhibited
high free binding scores (-8,63) for Lep-R, and myricetin_3_arabinogalactoside had high free
binding scores (-9,39) for β3AR. These binding predictions could activate Lep-R and β3AR.

Conclusion:

This study highlights that HSE could be a potential therapeutic target for obesity by
increasing LepR mRNA and leptin sensitivity, enhancing energy expenditure, and reducing obesity.
Prospective Meta-analysis of Weight Loss Regained and Success Rate of
Argon Plasma Coagulation to Suture and Surgery Procedures Post-bariatric
Surgery: Status of the Art of Endoscopic Treatment
Authors: Zotarelli-Filho Idiberto José , de Quadros Luiz Gustavo , Neto Manoel Galvão , Rajapaksa Samadhi W. , Vidanapathirana Janaki , Filho Durval Ribas , Nogueira-de-Almeida Carlos Alberto
Published: August 2023

Background:

This study performed a meta-analysis to compare the safety and efficacy
of argon plasma coagulation (APC) concerning suture (SUT) and surgery (SUR).

Methods:

The One-Way tests were applied, with p <0.05 significant. The value of R2 was analyzed
(heterogeneity), and the risk of bias of articles was evaluated.

Results:

A total of 34 studies were found, eight about APC, twenty about SUT, and six about SUR.
For the percentage of Weight Loss Regained (%WLR), the means for APC, SUT, and SUR were
19.39 ± 10.94, 26.06 ± 16.71, and 17.05 ± 9.85, and for success rate (%SR), the means were 89.75
± 16.75, 86.80 ± 11.44, and 76.00 ± 21.57, respectively with p >0.05, with R2 ≥ 50%.

Conclusion:

The APC proved to be efficient and safe like the other techniques.
FBLN5 was Regulated by PRDM9, and Promoted Senescence and
Osteogenic Differentiation of Human Periodontal Ligament Stem Cells
Authors: Zhao Mengyao , Rong Rong , Zhang Chen , Yang Haoqing , Han Xiao , Fan Zhipeng , Zheng Ying , Zhang Jianpeng
Published: August 2023

Objectives:

Periodontal ligament stem cells (PDLSCs) are ideal seed cells for periodontal tissue
regeneration. Our previous studies have indicated that the histone methyltransferase PRDM9 plays an
important role in human periodontal ligament stem cells (hPDLSCs). Whether FBLN5, which is a downstream
gene of PRDM9, also has a potential impact on hPDLSCs is still unclear.

Methods:

Senescence was assessed using β-galactosidase and Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay
(ELISA). Osteogenic differentiation potential of hPDLSCs was measured through Alkaline phosphatase
(ALP) activity assay and Alizarin red detection, while gene expression levels were evaluated using western
blot and RT-qPCR analysis.

Results:

FBLN5 overexpression promoted the osteogenic differentiation and senescence of hPDLSCs.
FBLN5 knockdown inhibited the osteogenic differentiation and senescence of hPDLSCs. Knockdown of
PRDM9 decreased the expression of FBLN5 in hPDLSCs and inhibited senescence of hPDLSCs. Additionally,
both FBLN5 and PRDM9 promoted the expression of phosphorylated p38 MAPK, Erk1/2 and
JNK. The p38 MAPK pathway inhibitor SB203580 and the Erk1/2 pathway inhibitor PD98059 have the
same effects on inhibiting the osteogenic differentiation and senescence of hPDLSCs. The JNK pathway
inhibitor SP600125 reduced the senescence of hPDLSCs.

Conclusion:

FBLN5 promoted senescence and osteogenic differentiation of hPDLSCs via activation of
the MAPK signaling pathway. FBLN5 was positively targeted by PRDM9, which also activated the
MAPK signaling pathway.
TumorDet: A Breast Tumor Detection Model Based on Transfer Learning
and ShuffleNet
Authors: Zhang Tao , Pan Leying , Yang Qiang , Yang Guoping , Han Nan , Qiao Shaojie
Published: August 2023

Background:

Breast tumor is among the most malignant tumors and early detection can improve
patient’s survival rate. Currently, mammography is the most reliable method for diagnosing breast
tumor because of high image resolution. Because of the rapid development of medical and artificial intelligence
techniques, computer-aided diagnosis technology can greatly improve the detection accuracy of
breast tumors and medical imaging has begun to use deep-learning-based approaches. In this study, the
TumorDet model is proposed to detect the benign and malignant lesions of breast tumor, which has positive
significance for assisting doctors in diagnosis.

Objective:

We use the proposed TumorDet to analyze and predict breast tumors on the real MRI dataset.

Methods:

(1) We introduce an adaptive gamma correction (AGC) method to balance brightness equalization
and increase the contrast of mammography images; (2) we use the ShuffleNet model to exchange
information between different feature layers and extract the hidden high-level features of medical images;
and (3) we use the transfer learning method to fine-tune the ShuffleNet model and obtain the optimal
parameters.

Results:

The proposed TumorDet model has shown that accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity reach
90.43%, 89.37%, and 87.81%, respectively. TumorDet performs well in the breast tumor detection task.
In addition, we use the proposed TumorDet to conduct experiments on other tasks, such as forest fires,
and the robustness of TumorDet is proved by experimental results.

Conclusion:

TumorDet employs the ShuffleNet model to exchange information between different feature
layers without increasing the number of network parameters and applies transfer learning method to further
extract the basic features of medical images by fine-tuning. The model is beneficial for the localization
and classification of breast tumors and also performs well in forest fire detection.
Review on Mucormycosis: Pathogenesis, Epidemiology, Microbiology and
Diagnosis
Authors: Sharma Aditya , Alam Md Aftab , Dhoundiyal Shivang , Sharma Pramod Kumar
Published: August 2023

Mucormycosis is a serious and invasive fungal infection caused by Mucorales fungi. This
review article provides a concise overview of the pathogenesis, epidemiology, microbiology, and diagnosis
of mucormycosis. The introduction section highlights the key microbiological properties of the
pathogen and delves into the underlying mechanisms of mucormycosis pathogenesis, including the
invasion and proliferation of the fungus within the host. The description of the disease section focuses
on the epidemiology of mucormycosis, including its incidence, risk factors, and geographical distribution.
It also explores the specific context of mucormycosis infection about COVID-19 and diabetes
mellitus, highlighting the increased susceptibility observed in individuals with these conditions. A case
study illustrates the clinical manifestations and challenges associated with mucormycosis, emphasizing
the importance of early detection. Additionally, the review discusses the diagnosis of mucormycosis,
emphasizing the significance of clinical assessment, radiological imaging, and microbiological tests for
accurate and timely detection of the infection.

:

Regarding treatment, the article covers the various therapeutic approaches, including antifungal therapy,
surgical interventions, and management of underlying predisposing conditions. The limitations and
challenges associated with treatment options are also addressed. This review aims to provide a comprehensive
understanding of mucormycosis, equipping healthcare professionals with valuable insights
into its pathogenesis, epidemiology, microbiology, and diagnostic strategies. By enhancing knowledge
and awareness of this fungal infection, this review can improve patient outcomes through early diagnosis
and appropriate management.
Antidiabetic Effect of Star Anise (Illicium verum) in Streptozotocin-induced Diabetic Rats
Authors: Amtaghri Smail , Qabouche Adil , Slaoui Miloudia , Eddouks Mohamed
Published: August 2023

Aim:

The current study aimed to evaluate the antidiabetic potential of Illicium verum
fruits.

Background:

Illicium verum fruits are frequently used by the Moroccan population in the treatment
of diabetes.

Methods:

The antihyperglycemic effect of the aqueous extract of Illicium verum fruits (AEIVF) in
rats was assessed. The effects of AEIVF (20 mg/kg) on glycemia and lipid profile as well as its phytochemical
and antioxidant properties were evaluated.

Results:

In normal and diabetic rats, AEIVF reduced blood glucose levels 6 hours after administration.
Furthermore, after 7 days of treatment, glycemia was lowered in diabetic rats, and this extract
exhibited an antioxidant activity.

Conclusion:

The study shows that Illicium verum possesses a potent antidiabetic activity. In addition,
the toxicity of AEIVF was evaluated and the LD50 value was found to be greater than the 2 g/kg dose.
Investigation of Pancreatic-beta Cells Role in the Biological Process of Ageing
Authors: Chaudhary Rishabh , Khanna Janvi , Rohilla Manni , Gupta Sumeet , Bansal Seema
Published: August 2023

Background:

Cellular senescence is associated with the formation and progression of a range of illnesses, including ageing and metabolic disorders such as diabetes mellitus and pancreatic beta cell dysfunction. Ageing and reduced glucose tolerance are interconnected. Often, Diabetes is becoming more common, which is concerning since it raises the risk of a variety of age-dependent disorders such as cardiovascular disease, cancer, Parkinson's disease, stroke, and Alzheimer's disease

Objectives:

The objectives of this study are to find out the most recent research on how ageing affects the functions of pancreatic beta cells, beta cell mass, beta cell senescence, mitochondrial dysfunction, and hormonal imbalance.

Methods:

Various research and review manuscripts are gathered from various records such as Google Scholar, PubMed, Mendeley, Scopus, Science Open, the Directory of Open Access Journals, and the Edu-cation Resources Information Centre, using different terms like "Diabetes, cellular senescence, beta cells, ageing, insulin, glucose".

Results:

In this review, we research novel targets in order to discover new strategies to treat diabetes. Ab-normal glucose homeostasis and type 2 diabetes mellitus in the elderly may aid in the development of novel medicines to delay or prevent diabetes onset, improve quality of life, and, finally, increase life duration.

Conclusion:

Aging accelerates beta cell senescence by generating premature cell senescence, which is mostly mediated by high glucose levels. Despite higher plasma glucose levels, hepatic gluconeogenesis accelerates and adipose tissue lipolysis rises, resulting in an increase in free fatty acid levels in the blood and worsening insulin resistance throughout the body.
Thyroid Nodules: Emerging Trends in Detection and Visualization based
on Citespace
Authors: Yao Wenyan , Peng Xiujuan , Guan Yunhui , Du Xia , Xia Conglong , Liu Feng
Published: August 2023

Background:

Thyroid nodule (TN) is a highly prevalent clinical endocrine disease. Many countries have formed guidelines on the prevention and treatment of TN based on extensive research. However, there is a scarcity of TN-related literature based on bibliometrics.

Objectives:

This study aimed to evaluate the scientific achievements and progress of TN research from a global perspective by investigating the literature for 20 years through bibliometrics.

Methods:

We searched the literature on TN in the core collection of the Web of Science database from 2002 to 2021 and used the Citespace software to analyze the co-authorship, co-citation, and co-occurrence of countries, institutions, authors, keywords, and co-cited literature.

Results:

We retrieved 12319 documents related to TN. The literature on TN has been growing since 2002. The United States has contributed the largest proportion of TN papers (20.64%), followed by China, Italy, and South Korea. The United States ranked first in terms of centrality (0.38). Haugen BR, Gharib H, and Cibas ES are the top three most cited authors. The papers published in Thyroid were cited most frequently (7952 times). The most prominent keywords were management, cancer, fi-ne needle aspiration, diagnosis, malignant tumor, thyroid cancer, ultrasound, biopsy, benign, surgery, ablation, and cytology. All keywords could be divided into three categories: diagnosis stratification, treatment, and cancer. As far as potential hot spots are concerned, the keywords that have recently burst strongly and are still continuing are: "Association Guideline" (2018-2021), "Radiofrequency Ab-lation" (2017-2021), "Classification" (2019-2021), and "Data System" (2017-2021).

Conclusion:

Based on the current trends, the number of publications on TN will continue to in-crease. The United States is the most active contributor to research in this field. Previous literature focused on stratification, cancer, surgery, and ablation, and there were different opinions on the stratification of diagnosis. There were relatively few studies on pathogenesis and treatment using medicine. More focus will be placed on association guidelines, radiofrequency ablation, classifica-tion, and data system, which may be the next popular topics in TN research.
Nano - Based Therapeutic Strategies in Management of Rheumatoid
Arthritis
Authors: Nautiyal Gunjan , Sharma Shiv Kant , Kaushik Dhirender , Pandey Parijat
Published: August 2023

Background:

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease, progressively distinctive
via cartilage destruction, auto-antibody production, severe joint pain, and synovial inflammation.
Nanotechnology represents as one of the utmost promising scientific technologies of the 21st century.
It exhibits remarkable potential in the field of medicine, including imaging techniques and diagnostic
tools, drug delivery systems and providing advances in treatment of several diseases with nanosized
structures (less than 100 nm).

Objective:

Conventional drugs as a cornerstone of RA management including disease-modifying antirheumatic
drugs (DMARDS), Glucocorticosteroids, etc are under clinical practice. Nevertheless, their
low solubility profile, poor pharmacokinetics behaviour, and non-targeted distribution not only hamper
their effectiveness, but also give rise to severe adverse effects which leads to the need for the emergence
of nanoscale drug delivery systems.

Method:

Several types of nano-diagnostic agents and nanocarriers have been identified; including polymeric
nanoparticles (NPs), liposomes, nanogels, metallic NPs, nanofibres, carbon nanotubes, nano
fullerene etc. Various patents and clinical trial data have been reported in relevance to RA treatment.

Result:

Nanocarriers, unlike standard medications, encapsulate molecules with high drug loading efficacy
and avoid drug leakage and burst release before reaching the inflamed sites. Because of its enhanced
targeting specificity with the ability to solubilise hydrophobic drugs, it acts as an enhanced drug
delivery system.

Conclusion:

This study explores nanoparticles potential role in RA as a carrier for site-specific delivery
and its promising strategies to overcome the drawbacks. Hence, it concludes that nanomedicine is advantageous
compared with conventional therapy to enhanced futuristic approach.
Prediction of Deleterious Non-Synonymous Single Nucleotide Polymorphism
of Cathelicidin
Authors: Subbiah Usha , Ajith Athira , Subbiah Harini Venkata
Published: August 2023

Background:

Cathelicidin, a human host defense peptide, plays a salubrious role
in innate host defense against human pathogens. Despite the extensive studies on the antimicrobial
function of Cathelicidin, there is a lack of information on this peptide's deleterious
single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) that potentially alter the disease susceptibility
and hence the current study.

Objective:

To predict Cathelicidin's structural and functional deleterious non-synonymous
single nucleotide polymorphisms.

Methods:

The non-synonymous SNPs of Cathelicidin were investigated using computational
prediction tools like SIFT, Polyphen, PROVEAN, MusiteDeep, I-Mutant, and STRING.

Results:

The present study predicted 23 potentially harmful nsSNP of Cathelicidin. Among
these, 14 were highly conserved, 8 were average conserved, and 1 alone was variable. Phosphorylation
was observed in serine and threonine residues using post-translational modification.
Further mutation 3D predicted 11 clustered and 13 covered mutations in cathelicidin
variants. The structural distribution of high-risk nsSNPs predicted 80 alpha helixes, 0 random
coils, 19 extended strands, and 4 beta turns. Among 23 predicted deleterious SNPs, 9
nsSNPs alone showed mutation effect based on the HOPE structural and functional analysis.
The direct functional interaction pattern of Cathelicidin with other proteins, FPR2, PRTN3,
TLR9, IGF1R, and JUN, was observed.

Conclusion:

The identified deleterious nsSNPs could help understand the mutation effect of
Cathelicidin in disease susceptibility and drug discovery.
Role of Genetics and Surgical Interventions for the Management of Cerebral
Cavernous Malformations (CMM)
Authors: Patel Anjali , Valle Daisy , Nguyen Andrew , Molina Eduardo , Lucke-Wold Brandon
Published: August 2023

Cerebral cavernous malformations (CCMs) are comprised of tissue matter within the
brain possessing anomalous vascular architecture. In totality, the dilated appearance of the cavernoma
takes on a mulberry-like shape contributed by the shape and relation to vascular and capillary
elements. Analyzing its pathophysiology along with its molecular and genetic pathways plays
a vital role in whether or not a patient receives GKRS, medical management, or Surgery, the most
invasive of procedures. To avoid neurological trauma, microsurgical resection of cavernomas can be
guided by the novel clinical application of a 3D Slicer with Sina/MosoCam. When cavernomas
present in deep lesions with poor accessibility, gamma knife stereotactic radiosurgery (GKSR) is
recommended. For asymptomatic and non-multilobal lesions, medical and symptom management
is deemed standard, such as antiepileptic therapy. The two-hit hypothesis serves to explain the mutations
in three key genes that are most pertinent to the progression of cavernomas: CCM1/KRIT1,
CCM2/Malcavernin, and CCM3/PDCD10. Various exon deletions and frameshift mutations can
cause dysfunction in vascular structure through loss and gain of function mutations. MEKK3 and
KLF2/4 are involved in a protein kinase signaling cycle that promotes abnormal angiogenesis and
cavernoma formation. In terms of potential treatments, RhoKinase inhibitors have shown to decrease
endothelial to mesenchymal transition and CCM lesion development in mice models. All in
all, understanding the research behind the molecular genetics in CCMs can foster personalized
medicine and potentially create new neurosurgical and medicative treatments.
Developing the Eating Disorder Online Activity Questionnaire
(EDOAQ) for Adolescents in Eating Disorder Services; A
Qualitative Study
Authors: Redmond Tomos , Lamonby Jasmine , Harrington Lesley , Wood Alison
Published: August 2023

Background and Objective:

Patients aged 12 – 18 years presenting to
Community Eating Disorders Services (CEDS) commonly describe problematic use of
the internet (PUI). Time spent on the internet, internet experiences of social
comparison, looking at food and sites offering weight and shape and fitness advice are
all described during the onset of eating disorders and continue through treatment. We
found that there is a lack of a clinical tool to assess PUI and its role in the development
of eating disorders, and thus developed the Eating Disorder Online Activity
Questionnaire (EDOAQ).

Methods:

This qualitative study involved 10 adolescents accessing community
treatment for eating disorders, who were invited to engage in a brief semi-structured
interview inquiring about their completion of the EDOAQ and experiences of the
internet. Five clinicians working with the patients were also invited to participate in a
similar process. Interview data was thematically analysed.

Results:

All participants described high use of the internet. Patient and clinician
experience was generally positive regarding the clinical use of the EDOAQ, and
modifications for the questionnaire were suggested. Participants also reported the
necessity of online activity and the easy access to harmful content. Participants found
the EDOAQ improved self-awareness of this and led to healthier online use.

Conclusions:

Patients presenting with eating disorder need to be screened for PUI.
Assessing clinicians found a questionnaire inquiring about the use of the internet useful
in assessment and treatment for eating disorder. Most patients found completing a
questionnaire less intrusive and easier than talking.
Nanotheranostic Approach for the Management of Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Sharma Saloni , Kuppusamy Gowthamarajan , Chowdhury Parikshit Roy , Pamu Divya
Published: August 2023

:

Colorectal Cancer (CRC) is a highly prevalent and the most frequent reason for death. The choice of nanotheranostic technology for the management of colorectal cancer is one of the emerging strategies to overcome Colorectal Cancer (CRC). Magnetic nanoparticles are employed in this case because they have biomedical applications, such as diagnostic imaging, thermal treatment, and medication transport. There has been evidence of the usage of various chemicals on the surface of nano-particles, such as ligands, to highlight the contact with tumour cells at the target region in order to induce effective cytotoxic drug release. This review will highlight current breakthroughs in targeting magnetic nanoparticles against colorectal cancer, as well as the selection of ligands and their cellular targets with ionizing radiation employing in vitro and in vivo energies for Colorectal Cancer management.
Current Therapeutic Strategies for Chagas Disease
Authors: Narwal Sangeeta , Dhanda Tilak , Sharma Prerna , Sharma Vikas , Dhankhar Sanchit , Garg Nitika , Ghosh Niladry Sekhar , Rani Nidhi
Published: August 2023

Trypanosoma cruzi, the parasite that causes Chagas disease, can only be cured with one of two drugs, benznidazole or nifurtimox. The main disadvantages of these drugs include their ineffectiveness outside of the acute or early infection phase, their unpleasant effects, and the parasite's tolerance to their activities. On the other hand, several institutions and research groups have been working on a number of ways that can help find a solution to the problem. These strategies have evolved over the last few years. Several examples of such advancements include the utilization of combination therapy, the repurposing of current treatments, and the change of dosages for traditional drugs. Research has also been conducted on antiparasitic plants and the substances that may be obtained from them, and it makes use of existing knowledge gathered through medical procedures. Some works have studied the parasite in order to identify important genes that have the potential to be used as therapeutic targets in the development of novel targeted medications. Even though a lot of these studies have shown promising results, only a small fraction of them make it to the clinical testing phase of the study. Institutions and research organizations should be rewarded for coordinating their efforts and addressing all areas of drug development, given their resources and information. Last but not least, distributing this information will result in novel Chagas disease therapies, which would assist impacted populations.
Evaluation of Dose-dependent Interactions of Antibiotics using
RBC Membrane Model Systems
Authors: S. Sriharini , S. Sugantha Bharathy , Selvaraj Stalin
Published: August 2023

Background:

The present study aims to understand the membrane interactions
of three different antibiotics widely used for non-specific viral diseases.

Methods:

The dose-dependent membrane interactions of the selected antibiotics were elucidated
using octanol: water partition coefficient and hemolysis assay.

Results:

Our octanol: water partition coefficient experiments indicated that among the
three antibiotics (Azithromycin, Erythromycin, and Amoxicillin), azithromycin and erythromycin
were more hydrophobic compared to amoxicillin. This finding also correlated
with hypotonic hemolysis assay experiments where the membrane stabilization effects of
both azithromycin and erythromycin were reduced in a dose-dependent manner compared
to amoxicillin.

Conclusion:

This may be attributed to the hydrophobic nature of azithromycin, and erythromycin
penetrates deeper into the RBC membrane to the extent of the hydrophobic core
compared to amoxicillin. The result is also concurrent with the observations from the hemolysis
assay in the isotonic conditions. To conclude, among the three antibiotics,
azithromycin, erythromycin localized on the hydrophobic core of the lipid membrane, and
amoxicillin localized on the outer surface and slight penetration to the outer leaflet of the
membrane.