bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
EVALUATING C-REACTIVE PROTEIN AND TOTAL LEUKOCYTE COUNT AS PREDICTIVE MARKERS FOR COMPLICATED APPENDICITIS
Authors:   Department of General Surgery, F.H. Medical College and Hospital (FHMCH), Agra, U.P., India., Veera Venkata Siva Kundrapu , Kumar Saxena Avanish ,   Department of General Surgery, F.H. Medical College and Hospital (FHMCH), Agra, U.P., India., Fatima Anam ,   Department of General Surgery, F.H. Medical College and Hospital (FHMCH), Agra, U.P., India., Yadav Abhishek ,   Department of General Surgery, F.H. Medical College and Hospital (FHMCH), Agra, U.P., India., Tanveer Khadeeja ,   Department of General Surgery, F.H. Medical College and Hospital (FHMCH), Agra, U.P., India., Zainuddin Liyakat Parkar ,   Department of General Surgery, F.H. Medical College and Hospital (FHMCH), Agra, U.P., India.
Published: October 2024

Background and Aims:Appendicitis is a common surgical emergency, yet its still difficult to tell the difference between simple and complex cases. More severe forms of appendicitis, such gangrenous or perforated instances, have worse consequences and need prompt medical attention. In order to distinguish between simple and complex appendicitis, this study sought to assess the diagnostic accuracy of total leukocyte count (TLC) and C-reactive protein (CRP). Methods:This hospital-based observational research was undertaken at F.H. Medical College, Agra, from September 2022 to March 2024. After obtaining informed permission, 88 patients, ages 18 to 60, who were scheduled for appendicectomy were included. To quantify CRP (>60 mg/L) and TLC (>11,000/cumm), blood samples were obtained. For diagnosis, histopathological results constituted the gold standard. SPSS version 25.0 was used to analyze the data, and chi-square and ANOVA tests were used for statistical comparisons. To evaluate the diagnostic performance, Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curves were created, with a significance threshold of p<0.05. Results:CRP demonstrated superior diagnostic accuracy with an AUC of 0.95 (p<0.001), sensitivity of 85.7%, and specificity of 90.9%. TLC showed an AUC of 0.66 (p=0.046), with 94.4% sensitivity but lower specificity at 37.1%. The projected cut-off for CRP was >94 mg/L and for TLC, >12,222/cumm. CRP also had a higher accuracy (90%) compared to TLC (48.9%). Conclusion:CRP emerged as a more reliable marker than TLC in predicting complicated appendicitis, with greater diagnostic accuracy and specificity. Larger multi-center studies are recommended to further validate these findings and establish universal cut-off values.
RADIATION AND THERMAL DIFFUSION EFFECTS ON VISCO-ELASTIC FLUID PAST A POROUS PLATE WITH CHEMICAL REACTION AND HEAT GENERATION
Authors: Dhar Paban , Borah Lakhyajit
Published: October 2024

A free convective two dimensional MHD boundary layer flow of a non-Newtonian (visco-elastic) fluid past a vertical porous plate have been thoroughly researched in this paper. The thermal diffusion Effects are also analyzed in presence of chemical reaction and radiation. A steady suction pressure is maintained at the plate. A singular perturbation method has been used to solve the problem. The analytical results are obtained for different values of the various dimensionless parameters entering into the flow problem and discussed quantitatively.
AGRARIAN. AI
Authors:   Student, Department of Computer Science and Engineering, BMS Institute of Tecnology and Management., R. Amith , Rakesh Lad Hetal ,   Student, Department of Computer Science and Engineering, BMS Institute of Tecnology and Management., Suhas J.M ,   Student, Department of Computer Science and Engineering, BMS Institute of Tecnology and Management., Sai Swetha Jalla ,   Student, Department of Computer Science and Engineering, BMS Institute of Tecnology and Management.
Published: October 2024

For the agriculture industry to remain sustainable, it needs to improve output, quality, marketing infrastructure, and food management. Supply chain transparency is required due to food safety concerns, and traceability technologies such as blockchain and AI are essential for confirming the provenance of products. Significant improvements to the agricultural system are required to meet growing demand. Blockchain and artificial intelligence (AI) are two examples of modern technologies that are essential for solving difficult problems and expediting procedures. In order to advance agriculture toward a more transparent, safe, and sustainable future, this abstract highlight the significance of technology.
A Comparative Study of the Self-Cultivation Theory in Osung Tea Ceremony and Western philosophy
Authors:   Association for International Tea Culture, Kim Myeong-ja , Yun Eun-ju
Published: October 2024

This study explores the philosophical system of Oseong Tea Ceremony, founded by Ahn park Jong-han, and seeks to examine its integrative potential through a comparison with Western philosophy. Oseong Tea Ceremony emphasizes moral growth and holistic human cultivation by nurturing five qualities: physicality, spirituality, sociality, individuality, and sensibility. Ahn park Jong-han merged the traditional thoughts of Confucianism, Buddhism, and Taoism to pursue inner development through tea ceremonies, which holds significant relevance in modern society. While existing research has inadequately compared Oseong Tea Ceremony with Western philosophy, this study aims to present the contemporary significance and philosophical similarities of Oseong Tea Ceremony through comparisons with plato's tripartite theory of the soul, Kant's moral philosophy, and Martin Buber's philosophy of relation. Through this analysis, the study discusses how Oseong Tea Ceremony can be established as a practical philosophy for holistic human growth.
Ontology of Historicism: The Actor-Network Theory and the Elimination of the Subject
Authors:   St. Petersburg State University, Dyakov Alexandr V.
Published: October 2024

The article refers to the ontological foundations of the actor-network theory, considered from the perspective of historicism at the present stage of its development. The author offers an original version of the origin of the actor-network theory, placing it in the context of the process of overcoming classical historicism, historical relativism inherent in Postmodernism and searching for a new perspective on the historical process. The article puts forward and argues the thesis that the theoretical demarche under consideration, genetically related to the Structuralism of previous decades, has the potential to bring the problems common with Structuralism to the ontological level. The actor does not have some pre-existence, but is wholly constituted in the event. It does not exist on its own, but along with other actors whose activity creates the space in which they themselves are constituted. The essence of an actor entirely coincides with its existence in the space of events. The author concludes that the actor-network theory, not striving for the revival of trans-historical universals like the subject of history, also refuses to historicize the entities with which it has to deal. The actor has no personal history and is himself fundamentally unhistorical, but exists only within the framework of the ‘stories’ that happen to him. Such a theoretical demarche partially revives the subject of history, and in the ultimate perspective, the forms of thought characteristic of classical historicism. Thus, a specific structure is constituted in the space of the humanities, using the forms of classical historicism with their inherent figures and adapting them to a new context that meets the modern scientific situation.
Fundamental Ethics of P. A. Kropotkin and L. N. Tolstoy and the “New Ethics” of Postmodernism
Authors:   St. Petersburg State Agrarian University, Arefiev Mikhail A. , Davydenkova Antonina G. ,   Fundamental Ethics of P.A.Kropotkin and L.N.Tolstoy and the “New Ethics” of Postmodernism, Kovalenko Natalya G. ,   St. Petersburg State Agrarian University
Published: October 2024

The purpose of this article is to analyze the moral and ethical concepts of Kropotkin and Tolstoy, that became the fundamental ethics of Russian social thought in the early twentieth century. The significance of these ethics is essential for the resolution of contemporary socio-cultural problems pressing on Russian statehood in the post-Soviet era. The crisis in the spiritual sphere of Russian society has forced the issues of preserving traditional values through legislative acts and decrees. The aim of this study is to identify the cultural and philosophical foundations of ethical concepts of Russian thinkers using established paradigmatic approaches. The division of ethics into fundamental and applied, i.e. professionally oriented, is the methodological basis of our study. The novelty of the article lies in the fact that the thesis of super-relevance of Kropotkin’s and Tolstoy’s fundamental ethics today in the context of the crisis of traditional values that has embraced the whole post-Soviet space, including Russia, is argued. One of the leading developers of the concept was the postmodernist Michel Foucault, who argued that freedom is an ontological condition of ethics. Ethics is the form that freedom takes in different socioeconomic and political contexts. The general conclusion is that the main line for the ethical outlook of Kropotkin and Tolstoy was their social sharpening, which today can be seen as the antithesis of postmodernist values. For Kropotkin, the social orientation of ethics was ensured by the universality of the principle of mutual help and support in Nature and Society. For Tolstoy, it is rationalistically justified and based on the principles of solidarity and justice, based on the Christian precepts of the beatitudes. Tolstoy’s moral utilitarianism rested on the idea of the universality of the principle of non-violence in social life, on the philosophy of the social good.
The Concept of Aesthetic Experience Based on the Theory of Sacrum by R. Otto
Authors:   Russian Christian Academy for Humanities, Egorov Pavel A.
Published: October 2024

The article is focused at the demarcation of the concept of aesthetic experience. This operation is carried out through a critical analysis of the theory of the Sacred by R. Otto, set out by him in the book published under the same title. It demonstrates the internal inconsistency of R. Otto’s desire to bring the Sacred as an autonomous experience, not association with aesthetics, on the basis of neo-Kantian philosophy, which gravitates towards the same aesthetics. This contradiction of task and method, placed in a wider context of consideration, allows us to define aesthetic experience. Aesthetic experience is the mode of considering any possible experience according to the specific rules of the discipline of aesthetics. In this sense, pure experience is only an illusory perspective from the sensory overload of discourse with pre-conceptual expressions, from the aspect of intensity. The experience itself is completely reduced to a mode of expression, and has no characteristics of its own. Experience is the junction of the pre-conceptual and the conceptual, infinitely segmentable but never grasped, only always reducible to expression, hermeneutic (meaning) and non-hermeneutic (presence). Aesthetic experience, on the other hand, is experience interpreted in the light of the fact that existence is indistinguishable from representation, experience understood in a deontologized sense.
Modelling a low-head seawater-pumped hydro storage system's impeller for energy production within a small island developing state
Authors: Birbal Prashant Yadev , Azamathulla Hazi Mohammad
Published: October 2024

The proposed seawater pumped hydro storage (SPHS) is one option for providing a buffered energy storage system that will surely be required in the future. Given the fact that most small island developing states (SIDS) are isolated and surrounded by large bodies of water, the medium of seawater becomes an infinite supply. However, SIDS are also low lying and therefore only low heads will be available at high flows to maximize the energy efficiency of the system. The computational fluid dynamics (CFD) model, ANSYS Fluent, was used to simulate this SPHS pump turbine impeller at low heads and high flows. This pump turbine impeller was simulated to function as both a pump and as a turbine at various revolutions per minute (rpm). The performance of the system was evaluated based on the pressure and velocity distributions of the pump turbine impeller at varying rpm. It was found that there were less energy losses within the turbine mode compared to the pump mode. Furthermore, this study showcases that the CFD model ANSYS Fluent is an economical, efficient, and easily diagnosable technique for analysing an impeller in both pump and turbine modes.
Neuroprotective Effect of Artemisinin in an Animal Model of Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Tiratsuyan Susanna , Hambardzumyan Yelena , Poghosyan Michael , Danielyan Margarita , Hovhannisyan Ashkhen
Published: October 2024

Introduction:

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common neurodegenerative
disease in older people, characterized by the accumulation of beta-amyloid (Aβ)
plaques and neurofibrillary tangles composed of aggregated of hyperphosphorylated tau
protein, which normally helps stabilize microtubules in neurons.

Method:

Nowadays, artemisinin (ART) as well as its semisynthetic derivatives (ARTs)
are seen as potential neuroprotectors. The goal of the present study is the assessment of
neuroprotective, antibacterial activity of ART, as well as in silico studies of ART affinity
to Aβ-peptides and the search of potential targets for ART. The study is referring to
explores the impact of ART on an animal model of AD that is induced by the aggregated
amyloidogenic peptide Aβ1-42 by electrophysiology and morphology analysis. Specifically,
the focus is on the activation of the entorhinal cortex (ENT) as synaptic potentiation.

Result:

Electrophysiological and histochemical have demonstrated that therapeutic injection
of ART or its derivatives acts as a neuroprotective This treatment appears to prevent
or slow down damage to brain tissue, and it promotes the restoration of neurons
and their surrounding environment. The protective effects of ART may involve various
mechanisms, including antioxidant activity, anti-inflammatory effects, and the inhibition
of apoptosis.

Conclusion:

in silico studies revealed a direct, strong interaction of ART with the amyloidogenic
peptides 5Aβ17-42, 12Aβ9-40, and 18Aβ9-40. in silico screening revealed several
protein targets for ART, including cytochrome P-450 2B6 (CYP2B6). The highest binding
affinity was found on the active site of CYP2B6. ART has great potential for discovering
new drugs using combined therapies.
MEF2C is a Potential Prognostic Biomarker and is Correlated with Immune Infiltrates in Lung Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Liang Ke , Xie Rui , Xie Zhanqiang , Wan Wang , Fu Xiangjie , Lai Xiaoqin , Li Dongbing , Miao Huilai
Published: October 2024

Background:

The role of Myocyte Enhancer Factor 2 C (MEF2C) in lung
adenocarcinoma (LUAD) is unclear.

Objective:

To address this gap in knowledge, we employed bioinformatics analysis and
experimental validation in this study.

Methods:

This study investigated MEF2C expression across a spectrum of cancers, with
a specific focus on lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD), utilizing Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA)
data to assess its potential as a diagnostic marker. The study also investigated correlations
between MEF2C expression and clinical traits and prognostic indicators of LUAD.
Additionally, this study also delved into the regulatory mechanisms of MEF2C, examining
its connections to immune system interactions, immune checkpoint genes, tumor
mutational burden (TMB), and the sensitivity of LUAD to various drugs. Through
single-cell sequencing of LUAD cells and genetic variation of MEF2C in LUAD, we explored
the expression of MEF2C in cell lines and verified it by quantitative real-time
PCR (qRT-PCR).

Results:

MEF2C exhibited aberrant expression in both pan-cancer and LUAD. In individuals
with LUAD, diminished levels of MEF2C expression were notably linked to the effectiveness
of primary therapy outcome (p = 0.025), gender (p < 0.001), and the subdivision
of anatomic neoplasms 2 (p = 0.011). A decline in MEF2C levels was also found to
be significantly related to reduced overall survival (OS) in LUAD patients (p = 0.026).
The presence of MEF2C was recognized as a standalone factor predictive of prognosis
in LUAD (p = 0.029). MEF2C was found to be involved in multiple biological pathways,
such as those involving cell adhesion molecules. Additionally, its expression was
correlated with the extent of immune cell presence, the activity of immune checkpoint
genes, and TMB in LUAD. Notably, an inverse relationship was observed between MEF2C
expression and the sensitivity to several agents, including Topotecan, Irinotecan,
Panobinostat, Nilotinib, and Tp38-279, within the context of LUAD. Furthermore, MEF2C
was found to be significantly negatively regulated in LUAD cell lines.

Conclusion:

The results imply that MEF2C could be a valuable indicator for predicting
outcomes and a possible target for immunotherapy for LUAD patients.
Development and Validation of a Cholesterol-related Gene Signature for Prognostic Assessment in Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Zheng Jiarong , Shu Dalong , Xu Rongwei , Zheng Yucheng , Lin Pei , Lin Yunfan , Zhao Xinyuan , Cui Li , Liao Xin , Guo Bing
Published: October 2024

Aim:

This study seeks to develop a prognostic risk signature for head and
neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) based on cholesterol-related genes (CholRG),
aiming to enhance prognostic accuracy in clinical practice.

Background:

HNSCC poses significant challenges due to its aggressive behavior and
limited response to standard treatments, resulting in elevated morbidity and mortality
rates.In order to improve prognostic prediction in HNSCC, our study is inspired by the
realization that cholesterol metabolism plays a critical role in accelerating the progression
of cancer. To this end, we are developing a unique risk signature using CholRG.

Objective:

The aim of this study was to create a CholRG-based risk signature to predict
HNSCC prognosis, aiding in clinical decision-making accurately.

Method:

The TCGA HNSCC dataset, along with GSE41613 and GSE65858, was obtained
from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and the Gene Expression Omnibus
(GEO) databases, respectively. A CholRG-based risk signature was then developed and
validated across various independent HNSCC cohorts. Moreover, a nomogram model incorporating
CholRG-based risk signature was established. Additionally, functional enrichment
analysis was conducted, and the immune landscapes of the high- and low-risk
groups were compared. Finally, in vitro experiments were performed using lipid-based
transfection to deliver siRNAs targeting ACAT1 to SCC1 and SCC23 cell lines, further
examining the effects of ACAT1 knockdown on these cells.

Results:

Utilizing RNA-seq, microarray, and clinical data from public databases, we constructed
and validated a CholRG-based risk signature that includes key genes such as
ACAT1, CYP19A1, CYP27A1, FAXDC2, INSIG2, PRKAA2, and SEC14L2, which can effectively
predict the clinical outcome of HNSCC. Additionally, our findings were reinforced
by a nomogram model that integrates the risk score with clinical variables for
more clinically practical prognostic assessment. In addition, patients at high risk show
hypoxia and increased oncogenic pathways such as mTORC1 signaling, as well as a suppressed
immune microenvironment marked by a reduction in the infiltration of important
immune cells. Notably, in vitro experiments showed that ACAT1 depletion significantly
suppressed the proliferation, colony formation, and invasion capabilities of HNSCC
cells, confirming ACAT1's role in promoting malignancy.

Conclusion:

Collectively, our study not only underscores the importance of cholesterol
metabolism in HNSCC pathogenesis but also highlights the CholRG-based risk signature
as a promising tool for enhancing prognostic accuracy and personalizing therapeutic
strategies.
Preparation and Characterization of Universal Liquid Proliposomes Encapsulating Water-soluble Efficacious Substances
Authors: Xu Li , Huang Zhaohe , Pei Xiaojing , Zhang Ze , Li Shujing , He Yifan
Published: October 2024

Introduction:

Liposomes were extensively used for cosmetics and pharmaceuticals
due to their versatility, biocompatibility, and biodegradability, as well as the ability to encapsulate
water-soluble and fat-soluble substances. However, some challenges remain unsolved, including
poor stability, complex preparation process, limited encapsulation efficiencies (EE%)
and drug loading capacity (DLC%).

Method:

We herein prepared universal liquid proliposomes by rotary evaporation method and
optimized formulations with different pH, glycerol content, ethanol content and preparation process.

Result:

The EE% of water-soluble substances was above 85%, and the maximum DLC% was
37.5%. In 7 different conditions, the optimal formulation of the proliposomes remained stable
over 60 days. The excellent stability of proliposomes and nicotinamide liposomes and their essence,
when applied to cosmetic formulations, was confirmed by the Turbiscan stability analyzer.

Conclusion:

The proposed universal liquid proliposomes can form liposomes encapsulating a
variety of water-soluble substances rapidly, making them an accessible and versatile tool for
improving the stability and applicability of water-soluble raw materials.
Evolutionary Sequences and Structural Information-driven Reconstruction of New Insulin-like Growth Factor-I Peptide Variants
Authors: Khan Nazam , Althobiti Maryam , Chinnadurai Raj Kumar , Alharbi Samir , Kumar Rajender
Published: October 2024

Background:

Insulin-like growth factor-I (IGF-I) is crucial in controlling cell
growth, proliferation, and apoptosis. Its strong link to the development of cancers such
as breast, prostate, lung, thyroid, and colorectal has positioned the IGF-1 signalling
pathway as a promising target for novel cancer therapies. When activated, the IGF-1
receptor (IGF-1R) binds to IGF-I, playing a central role in promoting tumour cell growth
and survival.

Methods:

In this study, we combined evolutionary sequences with structural and
functional data of IGF-1 to reconstruct ancestral sequences and design novel IGF-1
peptide variants.

Results:

The insulin-like growth factor system exhibits a vast sequence diversity, yet it
shares a similar structural topology with conserved three pairs of disulfide linkages.
Our study reveals that IGF-1 is associated with the IGF system of cell surface
receptors through protein-protein interactions. Reconstructed IGF-1 variants show
similar structure fold to reported viral IGF-1 competitive antagonists.

Conclusion:

This new insight guides the design of novel natural IGF-1 mimic
peptides. It enhances our understanding of IGF-1's functionality and opens new
avenues for the development of therapeutic peptides and small molecules as anticancer
agents.
Nanostructured Lipid Carrier-based Topical Gels as Novel Drug Delivery System: A Comprehensive Overview
Authors: Biswas Ujjwal Kumar , Sen Shreeja , Sharma Susrita , Paul Mohana , Nayak Amit Kumar , Bose Anindya
Published: October 2024

Nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs) are lipidic nanocarriers that recover the permanency
and capacity of drug payloads. NLCs are well-known as second-generation lipid nanocarriers with an
unstructured matrix, presenting potentially advantageous nanocarrier systems with marketable opportunities
because of reproducible production methodologies and biocompatible lipidic excipients. These
(NLCs) are now recognized as a very promising nanocarrier structure for the efficient delivery of
drugs via different administration routes. In recent years, several NLC-based gels have been developed
and evaluated for topical delivery of many drugs and other therapeutic agents. This review article
presents an overview of NLC-based topical gels investigated to deliver drugs via ocular, dermal,
and transdermal routes. In addition, the classification, manufacturing, characterizations, advantages,
and disadvantages of NLCs are addressed in this article. We also discussed different evaluations of
NLC-based topical gels.
Fluconazole-loaded Hyaluronic Acid-modified Transfersomal Hydrogels Containing D-panthenol for Ocular Delivery in Fungal Keratitis Management
Authors: Das Biswarup , Nayak Amit Kumar , Mallick Subrata
Published: October 2024

Background:

Fungal keratitis (mycotic keratitis) is an eye infection in which the cornea is
infected by fungi and such fungal keratitis management can be effectively possible by ocular administration
of antifungal drugs.

Objective:

The main objectives of the present research were to develop and evaluate fluconazoleloaded
transfersomal hydrogels for ocular delivery in the effective management of fungal keratitis.

Methods:

A 23 factorial design-based approach was used for statistical optimization, where (A) the
ratio of lipid to edge activators, (B) the amount of hyaluronic acid (% HA), and (C) the ratio of edge
activators (sodium deoxycholate to Span 80) were taken as three factors. The average vesicle diameter
(Z, nm) of transfersomes was taken as a response. Further, fluconazole-loaded transfersomes
(FTO) were incorporated into 1% Carbopol 940-based hydrogel (OF1) and 2% HMPC K4M-based
hydrogel (OF2) containing D-panthenol (5% w/w).

Results:

The optimal variable setting for the optimized formulations of FTO was (A) = 9.15, (B) =
0.30%, and (C) = 3.00. FTO exhibited 66.39 nm Z, 0.247 polydispersity index, – 33.10 mV zeta potential,
and 65.38 ± 1.77 % DEE, and desirable elasticity. TEM image of FTO demonstrated a unilamellar
vesicular structure. The ex vivo ocular permeation of fluconazole from transfersomal hydrogels
was sustained over 24 h. All the transfersomal hydrogels showed good bioadhesion and excellent
antifungal activity with respect to the zone of inhibition against Candida albicans than Aspergillus
fumigates, in vitro. HET-CAM study results demonstrated that both the hydrogels were nonirritant
and safe for ocular. Short-term physical stability study suggested the stability of the developed
formulation.

Conclusion:

The current research demonstrated a new way to enhance the ocular penetration of fluconazole
via transfersomal hydrogel formulations for ocular delivery in the effective management of
fungal keratitis.
FHOD3 Promotes the Progression of Lung Cancer by Regulating the Caspase-3-Mediated Signaling Pathway
Authors: Peng Zhonglu , Wang Junjie , Huan Zhenghang , Zhou Chengmin , Li Zhifeng , Fang Huilong , Yang Zhiying , He Dongyang , Xie Weiquan
Published: October 2024

Introduction/Objective:

Lung cancer causes hundreds of thousands of deaths each year worldwide. FHOD3 was reported to accelerate the progression of brain cancer. However, its role in lung cancer is not clear. This study aimed to investigate the role of FHOD3 in lung cancer.

Methods:

The clinical significance of FHOD3 in lung cancer was analyzed based on the data from the TCGA database. The expression level of FHOD3 was detected by qPCR technology. Cell proliferation was detected by CCK-8 assay, and cell invasion was detected by transwell assay. The activity of caspase-3 was determined by the ELISA method, cell apoptosis was iden-tified by TUNEL assay, and protein expression was measured by western blotting technology.

Results:

Based on the TCGA data, FHOD3 was overexpressed in tumor tissues compared to the normal tissues. Patients with higher FHOD3 expression exhibited a worse survival rate. The expression levels of FHOD3 in lung cancer cell lines were much higher than that in normal cells. When FHOD3 was knocked down, the ability of cell proliferation and invasion was sig-nificantly inhibited. Cell apoptosis rate was increased reversely. The activity of caspase-3 was increased significantly. In addition, the expression level of cleaved caspase-3 was increased. The expression levels of Bax, caspase-8, and ICAD were also increased significantly. However, the expression of antiapoptotic molecule Bcl-2 was decreased reversely. This suggests that the caspase-3-mediated apoptosis signaling pathway was activated by FHOD3 knockdown.

Conclusion:

FHOD3 was overexpressed and negatively associated with survival rate in lung cancer patients. FHOD3 regulates cell proliferation, invasion, and apoptosis through the caspase-3-mediated signaling pathway. This study indicates that FHOD3 is an important gene contributing to the progression of lung cancer and might be a new drug target for the therapy of lung cancer.
Zinc Finger Protein 536 is a Potential Prognostic Biomarker that Promotes Neuroblastoma Progression via VEGFR2-PI3K-AKT Pathway
Authors: Fang Yuan , Dong Rui , Wang Shujing , Chen Lian , Wang Yizhen , Wu Qiang
Published: October 2024

Background:

Neuroblastoma (NB) is a well-known pediatric malignancy intertwined with neurodevelopment. Previously implicated in neuronal differentiation, Zinc Finger Protein 536 (ZNF536) has emerged as a promising prognostic and immune-related biomarker in our pan-cancer analysis.

Methods:

Single-cell RNA transcriptome sequencing, bulk transcriptome analysis, and immuno-histochemistry were used to assess ZNF536 expression and its association with prognosis. Cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and differentiation in ZNF536-knockdown NB cell lines were detected to evaluate the effect of ZNF536 on tumor cells. Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Receptor 2 (VEGFR2), a potential target of ZNF536, and its downstream PI3K/AKT signaling cascade were investigated using transcriptome sequencing, CUT&Tag, quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR), and Western blotting. The role of ZNF536 in tumorigenesis and the potential regulation axis was evaluated in vivo using a BALB/c nude mouse xenograft tumor model.

Results:

ZNF536 mRNA and protein expression were significantly higher in NB patients with poor prognosis. In vitro, ZNF536 knockdown curtailed proliferation, migration, and invasion of NB cells while fostering differentiation. ZNF536 regulated VEGFR2 expression, thus activating the PI3K-AKT pathway. In vivo, ZNF536 knockdown reduced tumor growth and proliferation via the VEGFR2-PI3K-AKT pathway.

Conclusion:

ZNF536 resulted as a novel prognostic biomarker in NB, promoting oncogenesis through VEGFR2-PI3K-AKT signaling axis modulation, suggesting its therapeutic potential in managing NB progression.
Envelope Protein in Differential Serodiagnosis of Dengue, Zika, and Chikungunya Viruses: A Systematic Review
Authors: Leal Junior Amauri Donadon , Jorge Fernando Américo , Rodrigues-Vendramini Franciele Abigail Vilugron , Conrado Pollyanna Cristina Vincenzi , Moreira Deborah de Castro , Pepino Rafaela Daleffe , Capoci Isis Regina Grenier , Bonfim-Mendonça Patrícia de Souza , Lopes Luciana Dias Ghiraldi , Bertolini Dennis Armando , Demarchi Izabel Galhardo , Teixeira Jorge Juarez Vieira , Kioshima Érika Seki
Published: October 2024

Objectives:

This systematic review was conducted to evaluate the applicability of the
envelope (E) protein in the diagnosis of arboviruses.

Methods:

This review was performed in accordance with the PRISMA statement. Five databases
were explored (PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, EMBASE, and IEDB). The inclusion and exclusion
criteria were applied to study eligibility. After data extraction, the risk of bias and evidence
certainty were evaluated according to QUADAS and GRADE assessments, respectively.

Results:

Eleven studies were included. A total of 11 studies were included in the review. ELISA
was the most frequently utilized technique, with two studies employing it for antigen detection and
nine for antibodies. The E protein was used as a whole protein, heterologous protein, and peptides.
The diagnostic metrics were enhanced by optimizations on techniques, such as antibody capture,
competitors, and nanosensors. Monoclonal antibodies showed improved specificity, including in coinfected
samples. Seven studies demonstrated a minimal risk of bias, and the evidence certainty was
considered moderate for dengue diagnosis.

Conclusions:

The E protein was successfully employed in different immunological assays with
large-scale strategies, enhancing the applicability potential for differential arboviruses’ diagnosis.
Furthermore, both the antigen design and the implementation of innovative methodologies will have
a substantial impact on the quality of the new tests. The PROSPERO protocol related to this work:
CRD42021265243.
The Multifaceted Role of miR-23a in Cancer and Disease Progression
Authors: Deng Ruping , Nong Dongmei , Liew Fong Fong
Published: October 2024

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small, non-coding RNAs that play a crucial role in post-transcriptional
gene regulation by modulating mRNA stability and translation. These evolutionarily
conserved molecules undergo processing by ribonucleases Drosha and Dicer, ultimately joining
the RNA-induced silencing complex to silence gene expression. Among them, miR-23a, located
on chromosome 19, is significant for its roles in cell growth, differentiation, and various diseases,
including cancer. Depending on the cancer type, miR-23a can function as both an oncogene and a
tumour suppressor. While its overexpression often correlates with aggressive tumours, miR-23a
holds promise as a biomarker for early cancer detection and a therapeutic target. Its diverse functions
in cancer include promoting tumour growth and hindering immune responses, highlighting
its potential for personalized medicine. Beyond cancer, miR-23a is involved in blood sugar regulation,
insulin resistance, muscle atrophy, and other diseases. It modulates pathways in type 2 diabetes
mellitus, muscle atrophy, leukemia, epilepsy, and osteoarthritis. This paper aims to comprehensively
analyze the roles of miR-23a in cancer and other diseases, focusing on its regulatory
mechanisms, target genes, and pathways. It also evaluates the potential of miR-23a as a biomarker
and therapeutic target. Despite its significance, research gaps remain, particularly in understanding
the interactions of miR-23a with other miRNAs and the detailed mechanisms underlying its
role in various diseases. More research into miR-23a clustering and how it works with other miRNAs
could help us learn more about it and find better ways to use it to diagnose and treat diseases.
In vitro Anti-oxidant, Alpha-Amylase, and Alpha-Glucosidase Inhibition Studies of Physica aipolia (Ehrh.ex Humb.) Furnr
Authors: Karki Deepa , Phunyal Anuraj , Rayamajhi Asmita , Gyawali Nisha , Sapkota Asmita , Adhikari Achyut
Published: October 2024

Background:

Diabetes prevalence is progressively rising everywhere, particularly in developing
countries. Lichens have evolved into a rich source of innovative bioactive chemicals with
their anti-oxidant capabilities, widening the scope of well-documented and effective diabetes treatment.

Objective:

The main objectives of this study were to perform in vitro alpha-amylase, alphaglucosidase
inhibition analysis, and anti-oxidant of lichen Physica aipolia.

Method:

Folin Ciocalteu’s reagent was used to determine the total phenolic content for biological activities.
The Aluminum trichloride method was used to determine total flavonoid content, and the
free radical assay method was used to determine the antioxidant activity of P. aipolia using 2,2-
diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH). Moreover, substrate 2-Chloro-4-nitrophenyl-α-D-maltotrioside
(CNPG3) and substrate-nitrophenyl-α-D-glucopyranose (p-NPG) were used for the determination of
alpha-amylase and alpha-glucosidase inhibition activities respectively, and molecular docking was
performed by Auto Dock Vina.

Results:

Total phenolic and flavonoid contents present in P. aipolia were 37.41 ± 2.87 mg GAE/g
and 5.53 ± 0.95 mg QE/g, respectively. For anti-oxidant inhibition activity, crude extract of methanol
showed an IC50 value of 15.324 ± 0.80 μg/mL. Furthermore, a methanolic crude extract showed significant
inhibition activities against alpha-amylase (IC50 = 178.50 ± 1.10 μg/mL) and alphaglucosidase
(IC50 = 76.10 ± 0.91 μg/mL). During in silico analysis, zeorin showed an effective binding
affinity with -7.9 kcal/mol, and Atranorin showed -7.4 kcal/mol in the orthosteric site of the protein.

Conclusion:

Physica aipolia exhibits the potential to impact biological functions, demonstrating antidiabetic
properties, as confirmed by molecular docking analysis in silico.
Reduction in Optical Feedback Noise of Atomic Force Microscopy by High-Frequency Current Modulation
Authors: Xu Ke , Zheng Wei
Published: October 2024

Introduction:

With the advancement of technology, nanotechnology has emerged as a
prominent research field. The Atomic Force Microscope (AFM) serves as a vital tool in nanoscience
and technology, playing an indispensable role across various domains. Method: However,
in the AFM photoelectric sensing system, the optical feedback noise from the beam deflection
method can lead to inaccuracies in signal identification and analysis, impacting the accuracy and
reliability of AFM measurements. To mitigate this interference, this study proposes a highfrequency
current superposition system aimed at reducing optical feedback noise. By superimposing
high-frequency currents, the semiconductor laser transitions from a single-mode to a
multi-mode operational state, thereby altering its mode of operation and consequently reducing
optical feedback noise during sensing. Initially, mathematical modeling and simulation analysis
were conducted on the high-frequency current superposition noise reduction system to examine
the impact of high-frequency current on the intensity noise of the semiconductor laser. Subsequently,
the design of the high-frequency current superposition noise reduction system was outlined,
encompassing the development of a constant current drive circuit, a voltage-controlled
oscillator circuit, and a biasing circuit. Finally, the high-frequency current superposition noise
reduction system underwent testing. Results: During the high-frequency current superposition
noise reduction test, the system's Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR) increased from 15.57 dB to 17.81
dB, and the system's noise peak-to-peak value decreased from 8 mV to 6 mV. Analysis of the
superposition frequency and noise reduction effect determined the optimal superposition frequency
of the AFM photoelectric sensor system to be 400 MHz. Characterization experiments of
the high-frequency superposition noise reduction system compared the clarity of Escherichia coli
images before and after noise reduction. Conclusion: The aforementioned experimental results
demonstrated that high-frequency current superposition is an effective noise reduction method
capable of mitigating optical noise in the AFM photoelectric sensing system.
Carbon Dots Prepared by One-step Sintering Method and their Application for pH Detection
Authors: Wang Yang , Pan Ruikun , Cheng Jiaji , Zhang Lei , Dong Xiumei
Published: October 2024

Introduction:

In recent years carbon dots (CDs) have attracted researchers due to
their unique physicochemical and fluorescent (FL) features, which can be applied in many fields
such as battery materials, fluorescence sensing, display, biological imaging and photocatalysis.

Method:

We prepared CDs by using a facile one-step sintering method. The fluorescent properties
and the application of pH detection were measured and analyzed.

Results:

The results show that CDs emit bright purplish-blue light centred at 425 nm excited by
355 nm UV light. FL intensity shows a linear relationship with pH values at 1~4 and 7~11, respectively.
The reasonable mechanism of the tested effective pH sensitivity is discussed.

Conclusion:

Our study shows that the CDs prepared by the one-step sintering method have great
potential to be used as pH sensors for physiochemical measurements.
Anticancer Properties Against Select Cancer Cell Lines and Metabolomics Analysis of Tender Coconut Water
Authors: Lakshmanan Jaganathan , Jaganathan Vaitheesh L. , Zhang Boachun , Werner Grace , Allen Tyler S. , Schultz David J. , Klinge Carolyn M. , Harbrecht Brian G.
Published: October 2024

Background:

Tender Coconut Water (TCW) is a nutrient-rich dietary supplement that contains bioactive
secondary metabolites and phytohormones with anti-oxidative and anti-inflammatory properties. Studies on
TCW’s anti-cancer properties are limited and the mechanism of its anti-cancer effects have not been defined.

Objective:

In the present study, we investigate TCW for its anti-cancer properties and, using untargeted metabolomics,
we identify components form TCW with potential anti-cancer activity.

Methodology:

Cell viability assay, BrdU incorporation assay, soft-agar assay, flow-cytometery, and Western
blotting were used to analyze TCW’s anticancer properties and to identify mechanism of action. Liquid chromatography-
Tandem Mass Spectroscopy (LC-MS/MS) was used to identify TCW components.

Results:

TCW decreased the viability and anchorage-independent growth of HepG2 hepatocellular carcinoma
(HCC) cells and caused S-phase cell cycle arrest. TCW inhibited AKT and ERK phosphorylation leading to reduced
ZEB1 protein, increased E-cadherin, and reduced N-cadherin protein expression in HepG2 cells, thus reversing
the ‘epithelial-to-mesenchymal’ (EMT) transition. TCW also decreased the viability of Hep3B hepatoma,
HCT-15 colon, MCF-7 and T47D luminal A breast cancer (BC) and MDA-MB-231 and MDA-MB-468 triplenegative
BC cells. Importantly, TCW did not inhibit the viability of MCF-10A normal breast epithelial cells.
Untargeted metabolomics analysis of TCW identified 271 metabolites, primarily lipids and lipid-like molecules,
phenylpropanoids and polyketides, and organic oxygen compounds. We demonstrate that three components from
TCW: 3-hydroxy-1-(4-hydroxyphenyl)propan-1-one, iondole-3-carbox aldehyde and caffeic acid inhibit the
growth of cancer cells.

Conclusion:

TCW and its components exhibit anti-cancer effects. TCW inhibits the viability of HepG2 hepatocellular
carcinoma cells by reversing the EMT process through inhibition of AKT and ERK signalling.
Targeting Ferroptosis: Small-molecule Inducers as Novel Anticancer Agents
Authors: Jin Shihao , Wang Huannan , Zhang Zhen , Yan Maocai
Published: October 2024

Ferroptosis, a distinct form of regulated cell death characterized by iron-dependent lipid peroxidation
and reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation, is increasingly recognized for its role in cancer development
and as a potential therapeutic target. This review consolidates insights into the molecular mechanisms underpinning
ferroptosis and evaluates the therapeutic potential of small-molecule inducers, such as erastin, RSL3, sulfasalazine,
and sorafenib, which selectively trigger ferroptosis in cancer cells. It highlights the distinct morphological
and molecular signatures of ferroptosis, its complex interplay with iron, lipid, and amino acid metabolic
pathways, and the resultant implications for cancer treatment strategies. Strategic manipulation of the ferroptosis
pathway offers a groundbreaking approach to cancer treatment, potentially circumventing the resistance that
cancers develop against traditional apoptosis-inducing agents. Furthermore, it also emphasizes the necessity of
refining these small molecules for clinical application and exploring their synergistic potential when combined
with current therapies to augment overall treatment efficacy and improve patient outcomes. Ferroptosis thus
emerges as a promising avenue in the realm of cancer therapy. Moving forward, research endeavors should focus
on a more nuanced understanding of the interconnections between ferroptosis and other cell death modalities.
Additionally, comprehensive evaluations of the long-term safety and therapeutic indices of the involved compounds
are imperative. Such investigations are poised to herald a transformative shift in the paradigm of oncology,
paving the way for innovative and targeted interventions.
Revealing Fibrosis Genes as Biomarkers of Ulcerative Colitis: A Bioinformatics Study Based on ScRNA and Bulk RNA Datasets
Authors: Wang Yandong , Liu Li , Wang Weihao
Published: October 2024

Objective:

This study aimed to uncover biomarkers associated with fibroblasts to diagnose
ulcerative colitis (UC) and predict sensitivity to TNFα inhibitors

Methods:

We identified fibrosis-related genes by analyzing eight bulk RNA and one single-cell
RNA sequencing dataset from UC patients. Three machine learning algorithms were employed to
identify common significant genes. We utilized five machine learning models, namely Random
Forest (RF), Support Vector Machine (SVM), Xgboost, Multilayer Perceptron (MLP), and Logistic
Regression, to develop diagnostic models for UC. Following hyperparameter tweaking using
grid search, we evaluated Matthew’s Correlation Coefficient (MCC) of each model on the validation
set. Finally, we identified five hub genes in UC patients and evaluated their response to infliximab
or golimumab.

Results:

We identified 23 genes associated with fibroblasts. Further analysis using three ML models
revealed BIRC3, IFITM2, ANXA1, ISG20, and MSN as critical fibroblast genes. Following
hyperparameter adjustment, the SVM model exhibited the most favorable characteristics in the
validation set, achieving an MCC of 0.7. ANXA1 contributed the most to the model that predicts
UC. The optimal model was implemented on the website. Among UC patients receiving TNFα inhibitor
treatment, the ineffective group showed considerably increased expression of the five critical
genes than the responsive group.

Conclusion:

BIRC3, IFITM2, ANXA1, ISG20, and MSN may serve as potential diagnostic biomarkers
in UC. Through the interaction between characteristic biomarkers and immune infiltrating
cells, the immune response mediated by these characteristic biomarkers plays a crucial role in
the occurrence and development of UC.