bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Enhancing a Real-time Face Recognition Accuracy With Innovative using Convolutional Neural Networks
Authors: Gamal Mohamed , Shayboub Magdy
Published: November 2023

This paper introduces an innovative facial recognition criminal detection system that is at the forefront of technology. Its primary goal is to identify suspects in real-time, using cutting-edge algorithms and live camera technology. By combining these advanced features, the system significantly enhances security measures and helps combat criminal activities. Facial recognition has become a prominent tool in the field of security, revolutionizing surveillance for threat detection. The user-friendly desktop application offers a wide range of features, including the ability to view crime statistics and upload suspect images. With an impressive accuracy rate of 99.38%, the system excels at identifying potential criminals, thanks to its integration with live camera sensors. Administrators benefit from additional privileges, such as direct management of the suspect database, user account control, and system monitoring. An admin dashboard provides efficient oversight of suspects, approval requests, and user management, enabling effective decision-making.
Study of the prevalence of smell disorders among students at the Syrian Private University after the Corona pandemic
Authors: Kadri Salam Jamal , Mostafa Ahmed
Published: November 2023

Background
COVID-19 has emerged as a public health emergency caused by SARS-CoV-2. However, few studies have reported on post-pandemic smell disorders resulting from COVID-19 infection. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate these disorders among a sample of students at a Syrian university.
Materials and methods
A cross-sectional study, conducted on 504 students at the Syrian Private University, in the period between 3/13/2023 and 6/7/2023. A questionnaire was distributed in paper and electronic form, and the questionnaire included demographic information for individuals, such as gender, age, and year of school, in addition to the symptoms of the Corona virus that they experienced.
Results
The study included 504 students; females (58.7%) compared to males (41.3%). The ages of the participants ranged between 18–32 years, with an average of approximately 22 years. The Faculty of Medicine had the largest participation (30.8%). The largest percentage of students were non-smokers (58.9%). A large percentage of students have been exposed to the virus (82.9%). (41.3%) of the students took a PCR test. The result was positive for (32.1%). The most common symptoms they experienced were fever (21%), headache (17.1%), cough (16.2%), and muscle pain (14.3%). Duration of symptoms “less than 20 days” (69.6%). More than half of the students had lost their sense of smell (61.5%). A percentage of students suffered from parasomnia (28.8%). A smaller percentage suffered from phantosmia (16.5%). A percentage of them suffered from a compulsion to smell (19.2%). We found that the rates of confirmed and probable HIV infection were higher among females (P-Value = 0.008). We also found that students at the Faculty of Medicine had higher infections with the virus compared to the rest of the faculties at the university (P-Value = 0.012).
Conclusion
This study revealed that students at the Syrian Private University were exposed to Covid-19 to a large extent. They suffered from the consequences of infection with the virus, with regard to smell disorders (anosmia, parasomnia, phantosmia) to varying degrees.
Preparation and characterization of Chitosan-Alginate biopolymer loaded by clindamycin phosphate as an effective drug delivery system for the treatment of Acne
Authors: Zanganeh Saghar Mohebbi , Tahvildari Kambiz , Nozari Maryam
Published: November 2023

Acne is a skin condition that occurs when your hair follicles become plugged with oil and dead skin cells. In the present research, a polymer based on Alginate and chitosan was synthesized and modified by Clindamycin phosphate which can be used for the treatment of acne. The drug release of formulations was evaluated in relation to thickness, composition, structure, and swelling. Various concentrations and volumes of Alginate and chitosan solutions were investigated to determine the effects on the film characteristics and amount of drug release. The obtained data indicated that mixing Alginate and chitosan solutions in different volumes with different concentrations greatly affected the film characteristics. Further, increased Alginate concentration improved adhesive properties in polymer mixtures. A 3:1 Alginate:Chitosan formulation with a solution percentage of 3 and 1% was the best formulation for polyelectrolyte films, resulting in a maximum Clindamycin phosphate release with an additional 24 hour delay in the drug release because the drug content is high and the swelling is appropriate.
Novel epiphytic root-fungus symbiosis in the Indo-Pacific seagrass Thalassodendron ciliatum
Authors: Vohník Martin , Josefiová Jiřina
Published: November 2023

Symbioses with fungi are important and ubiquitous on dry land but underexplored in the sea. As yet only one seagrass has been shown to form a specific root-fungus symbiosis that resembles those occurring in terrestrial plants, namely the Mediterranean Posidonia oceanica (Alismatales: Posidoniaceae) forming a dark septate (DS) endophytic association with Posidoniomyces atricolor (Pleosporales: Aigialaceae). Using stereomicroscopy, light and scanning electron microscopy, and DNA cloning, here we describe a novel root-fungus symbiosis in the Indo-Pacific seagrass Thalassodendron ciliatum (Alismatales: Cymodoceaceae). Similarly to P. oceanica, the mycobiont of T. ciliatum occurs more frequently in thinner roots that engage in nutrient uptake from the seabed and forms extensive hyphal mantles composed of DS hyphae on the root surface. Contrary to P. oceanica, the mycobiont occurs on the roots with root hairs and does not penetrate its host intraradically. While the cloning revealed a relatively rich spectrum of fungi, they were mostly parasites or saprobes and the identity of the mycobiont remains unknown. Symbioses of seagrasses with fungi are probably more frequent than previously thought, but their functioning and significance are unknown. Melanin present in DS hyphae slows down their decomposition and so is true for the colonized roots. Root symbioses with DS fungi may in this way contribute to blue carbon sequestration in seagrass meadows.
Mapeando caminhos possíveis: base de dados dos serviços públicos e público-privados de São Paulo na Clínica Psicológica Ana Maria Poppovic/PUC-SP
Authors: PADULA Roberto , RICO Elisabeth de Melo
Published: November 2023

O projeto nasceu a partir da demanda historicamente posta ao serviço social da Clínica Psicológica Ana Maria Poppovic da PUC-SP para atualização, ampliação e disponibilização de informações referentes às áreas de assistência, saúde, educação, cultura/lazer, esporte, habitação e transporte.  O objetivo foi garantir um acesso amplo e facilitado à rede de serviços públicos e público-privados por meio do desenvolvimento de um banco de dados, de modo a contemplar, com a maior qualidade possível, as demandas de setores PUC-SP que atendem a comunidade, bem como de alunos, professores e funcionários. Para tanto, foram atualizadas as informações existentes, modelado e populado um banco de dados e desenvolvido um aplicativo, chamado MACAP, que disponibiliza de forma rápida informações cujos dados foram pesquisados e levantados durante a implementação do projeto.
Average symmetry protected higher-order topological amorphous insulators
Authors: Tao Yu-Liang , Wang Jiong-Hao , Xu Yong
Published: November 2023

While topological phases have been extensively studied in amorphous systems in recent years, it remains unclear whether the random nature of amorphous materials can give rise to higher-order topological phases that have no crystalline counterparts. Here we theoretically demonstrate the existence of higher-order topological insulators in two-dimensional amorphous systems that can host more than six corner modes, such as eight or twelve corner modes. Although individual sample configuration lacks crystalline symmetry, we find that an ensemble of all configurations exhibits an average crystalline symmetry that provides protection for the new topological phases. To characterize the topological phases, we construct two topological invariants. Even though the bulk energy gap in the topological phase vanishes in the thermodynamic limit, we show that the bulk states near zero energy are localized, as supported by the level-spacing statistics and inverse participation ratio. Our findings open an avenue for exploring average symmetry protected higher-order topological phases in amorphous systems without crystalline counterparts.
Entanglement dynamics with string measurement operators
Authors: Piccitto Giulia , Russomanno Angelo , Rossini Davide
Published: November 2023

We explain how to apply a Gaussian-preserving operator to a fermionic Gaussian state. We use this method to study the evolution of the entanglement entropy of an Ising spin chain undergoing a quantum-jump dynamics with string measurement operators. We find that, for finite-range string operators, the asymptotic entanglement entropy exhibits a crossover from a logarithmic to an area-law scaling with the system size, depending on the Hamiltonian parameters as well as on the measurement strength. For ranges of the string which scale extensively with the system size, the asymptotic entanglement entropy shows a volume-law scaling, independently of the measurement strength and the Hamiltonian dynamics. The same behavior is observed for the measurement-only dynamics, suggesting that measurements may play a leading role in this context.
The impact of management performance on risk-taking behavior in a dual banking system: A cross-country analysis
Authors: Fakhrunnas Faaza , Nahda Katiya
Published: November 2023

In an era defined by global economic uncertainty, the role of management performance in influencing bank risk-taking has become pivotal. This urgency stems from the evolving dynamics of the banking sector and the need for robust risk management strategies. This study investigates the relationship between management performance and banks’ risk-taking behavior, drawing data from 248 banks across eight countries comprising Indonesia, Malaysia, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Bahrain, and the United Arab Emirates spanning 2013–2021 using panel data analysis. The study reveals that management performance measured by a cost-to-income ratio (β = –0.44, p < 0.01) has a negative and significant relationship with bank risk-taking behavior. In essence, a bank with superior management performance, indicated by a lower cost-to-income ratio, tends to have greater financial stability, as evidenced by a higher Z-score. Notably, external factors like the financial crisis and institutional development as moderating variables do not significantly alter the relationship between management performance and banks’ risk-taking behavior. The study also discovers that Islamic banks (β = 0.31, p < 0.01) outperform their conventional counterparts in risk management and management performance. However, it is worth noting that the results of regional analysis demonstrate variations across the Southeast, South, and Middle East regions. After conducting several robustness check tests, the findings of this study remain consistent, offering valuable implications for both policymakers and bank management. These insights emphasize the importance of formulating appropriate regulations and frameworks to enhance management performance at the banking level.
AcknowledgmentThe authors gratefully acknowledge the support from Direktorat Penelitian dan Pengabdian Masyarakat (DPPM) Universitas Islam Indonesia No: 006/Dir/DPPM/70/Pen.Unggulan/III/2023 for providing a research grant to this study.
Sarcocystis spp. – an underestimated parasite with zoonotic potential associated with food of animal origin
Authors: KORPYSA-DZIRBA WERONIKA , E. BILSKA-ZAJĄC , M. RÓŻYCKI , A. BEŁCIK , J. KARAMON , A. GONTARCZYK , E. ANTOLAK , M. SAMOREK-PIERÓG , J. SROKA , CENCEK TOMASZ
Published: November 2023

The protozoa of the genus Sarcocystis are worldwide distributed parasites affecting a wide range of animals. They life cycle requires two hosts: definitive and intermediate. Over 250 species of Sarcocystis have been described but three of them are known to have a zoonotic potential. These are: S. hominis, S. heydorni and S. suihominis. Domestig pigs and wild boars can be intermediate hosts for S. suihominis, wheras cattle for S. hominis and S. heydorni. Therefore, people can become infected after eating raw or insufficiently heat-treated pork, wild boar meat or beef. Human sarcocystosis is generally asymptomatic but in some cases can induce the syptoms of intestinal illness. People can also become accidental intermediate hosts after ingesting sporocysts from feces-contaminated food or water leading to muscular sarcocystosis. The cysts of Sarcocystis spp. (sarcocysts), which with some exceptions, are not visible and therefore they are rarely detected during routine veterinary meat inspection consisting of visual assessment of muscle tissue and digestion (in case of examination of pig and wild boar meat). The presence of visible cysts of Sarcocystis spp. can lead to meat condemnation and it generates economic losses for farmers. Food safety regulations require the control of the parasites presence in meat intended for human consumption but there are no regulations regarding the control of Sarcocystis spp. Nevertheless, European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) encourage to monitor and characterise Sarcocystis ssp. in animal and foodstuffs.
Estratégia metacognitiva no ensino de ciências: Fornecendo o feedback com apoio das tecnologias digitais
Authors: Machado Marly Stephany Magalhães , Cleophas Maria das Graças
Published: November 2023

O feedback aliado às tecnologias digitais apresenta-se como uma estratégia que pode contribuir para o desenvolvimento da regulação metacognitiva dos estudantes. Esta pesquisa concentrou-se em investigar como os professores de ciências incentivam a autorregulação dos estudantes por meio da estratégia de feedback quando fazem uso das tecnologias digitais. A pesquisa é de natureza básica, com abordagem qualitativa e exploratória, cujos dados foram obtidos por entrevistas realizadas com 14 professores de ciências e para organização dos dados foi utilizada a análise de conteúdo. Os resultados indicaram que algumas estratégias didáticas podem criar possibilidades de incentivar o planejamento, monitoramento e avaliação dos estudantes quando fornecido o feedback utilizando ambientes de aprendizagem on-line, plataformas interativas, de comunicação e vídeos. Entretanto, esse processo não ocorre, muitas vezes, de maneira explícita e consciente. Espera-se que este estudo possa ampliar o conhecimento referente à tríade metacognição, feedback e tecnologias digitais no contexto do ensino de ciências.
New materials for arsenic and fluoride removal
Authors: Gupte Tanvi , Pradeep Thalappil
Published: November 2023

Arsenic and fluoride are two major global water pollutants. They are introduced into the environment via various natural and anthropogenic activities. Several countries in the world are facing the detrimental health and environmental effects of these contaminants. Many technologies have been proposed and implemented for the removal of arsenic and fluoride from water. However, there is an ever-increasing demand for affordable and reliable water purification approaches. All the technologies are primarily based on any one of the following purification techniques: membrane filtration, reverse osmosis, electrodialysis, adsorption, precipitation, coagulation, oxidation, and ion exchange. The contaminant removal efficiency depends on the properties of the material used. Various materials have been tested and are used to deliver arsenic and fluoride-free water. In developing countries, affordability plays an important role in the implementation of water treatment strategies. This chapter gives an overview of simple, efficient, and affordable materials that combined with appropriate technologies, provide promising scalable solutions for the mitigation of arsenic and fluoride in water.
New technologies for drinking water
Authors: Nagar Ankit , Islam Md Rabiul , Pradeep Thalappil
Published: November 2023

The global population is expected to be about 8.2 billion by 2025. This suggests a dire need to prepare for the ongoing and impending challenges linked with water stress to create a water-secure ecosystem. Densely populated countries such as India and China are enhancing the production of semiconductor, petrochemical, automotive, chemical, and pharmaceutical products, which are materially enriching. Simultaneously, our quickly diminishing resources are being further stressed by unprocessed industrial waste. Therefore, to build a sustainable and hygienic livelihood for all, it is imperative to be able to remove conventional and emerging pollutants from water in an affordable and energy-efficient manner. Nanotechnology-based solutions have made substantial contributions towards offering sustainable solutions in the clean water space. Although nanotechnology-based water purification has been an active research area for decades, it is yet to occupy a significant market share because of irregularities in the context of sensitivity, efficient operation in the field, and higher cost in comparison to traditional technologies. This chapter will highlight emerging technologies for drinking water which have also reached society in the form of easily operable devices, such as nanomaterial-incorporated handpumps, desalination devices, and atmospheric water generators.
Multi-analyte assessment of water quality
Authors: Chaudhari Kamalesh , Subramanian Vidhya , Pradeep Thalappil
Published: November 2023

A thorough water quality assessment requires sample testing for a set of parameters. In field measurements, it is not necessary to precisely determine water composition. Field measurements can be planned only to roughly understand the necessity of in-depth lab-based analysis. This can be done by developing methods that are reagent free, independent of high-end instrumentation, and facilitative of multiplexed detection. While using multiplexed detection techniques, it is necessary to identify hidden signals using a probabilistic/predictive approach. This can be achieved by analysing the data from the measurements using AI and ML-based prediction techniques. The spectroscopy or electrochemistry-based signals exhibit minor sample-to-sample variations, which can be processed with data analytics tools to predict multiple analytes in water. Due to advancements in the miniaturization of sensors and cloud computing-based data analysis technologies, it has become possible to realize such data analysis-based multi-analyte sensing and detection methods.
Sustainable urban drainage systems
Authors: Narasimhan Balaji , Sreethu S. , Modi Krushil , Arun R. S. , Anelli Renato , Imani Maryam , Bhallamudi S. Murty
Published: November 2023

Changes in the hydrological processes within watersheds due to rapid urbanization along with climate change have been causing frequent pluvial floods in urban areas. Conventional stormwater drainage systems are unable to cope up with the situation. Therefore, latest practices rely on ‘source control techniques’, ‘permeable conveyance systems’ and ‘end of pipe systems’ for storm water management in urban areas. These measures are variously known as sustainable drainage systems in the United Kingdom, low impact development (LID) techniques in the US, water-sensitive urban designs in Australia, and sponge city approaches in China. In this chapter, we review various LID measures, status of their practice, and implementation challenges faced in India. We also outline further research needs in this area.
Hydro-geochemical characterization and modeling of groundwater in Chikun Local Government Area of Kaduna state, Nigeria
Authors: Vivan Ezra Lekwot , Eziashi Augustine Chukwuma , Binbol Nankap Latur , Ameso Vivien Chikogu
Published: November 2023

This study assessed groundwater quality in Chikun Local Government Area of Kaduna State and how it can be harnessed as a useful resource for water supply and to improve the management of water resources. The field survey methods adopted with the collection of water samples in the field were employed in collecting data. The study randomly collected fifty water samples from wells and boreholes in the peak of wet and dry seasons for 2 years (2021–2022) in the five selected wards within the Chikun Local Government Area and a range of water quality parameters were measured and compared with WHO standards for drinking water. The laboratory analysis results revealed that with the exception of magnesium, mercury, iron, lead and calcium, all other physicochemical parameters measured fell within the maximum permissible limit. The presence of some of these pollutants at varying degrees was found. Groundwater models showed groundwater flow in the North-Western direction and significant vertical movement of contaminants up to depths of about 60 m. This calls for regulations on the handling of wastes and pollutants that affect groundwater, which is best done through strict enforcement of laws and advocacy through all the appropriate institutions involved in water management.
A methodology for temporal disaggregation of daily rain gauge data using satellite precipitation product for improved accuracy in hydrologic simulation
Authors: Kachhawa Nitin Singh , Agnihotri Prasit Girish
Published: November 2023

Fine-temporal resolution rainfall is a prerequisite for flood risk-related studies. In recent years, satellite precipitation products (SPPs) have gained some attention in the hydro-meteorology field, but the application of these products for hydrological studies is still uncertain. This study discusses the methodology for temporal disaggregation of daily rain gauge (DRG) data using SPP for improved accuracy in hydrologic simulation. The objectives of this research article are (i) to temporally dis-aggregate the DRG data using 3-h SPP TRMM_3B42RT; (ii) to suggest the best approach in terms of hydrologic simulation capabilities using the compound factor (CF) technique. The hydrologic simulation in HEC-HMS was performed for various temporally disaggregated rain gauge (TDRG) data and results were analyzed using 10 efficiency criteria. The best approach was selected using the CF technique. The lowest CF of 2.4 reveals that peak discharge can be computed with less than 8% deviation using the TDRG data, which utilizes the least error tile/grid/pixel from rain gauge rainfall value out of four nearby tile/grid/pixel. This study concluded that flood volume can be computed with less than 5% deviation using DRG data but it failed to reproduce the flood peak. This approach has overcome the insufficiency of sub-daily rainfall observation.
Disinfection performance and synthesis conditions of the EGCG–Cu complex
Authors: Feng Cuimin , Guan Sairui , Jin JiYue , Yao Renda , Wang Ziwei , Li Haoxiang
Published: November 2023

Adopting the yield of the epicatechin gallate (EGCG)–Cu complex as an indicator, the impact of four conditions, such as pH, reaction time, temperature and reactant ratio, on the synthesis of the target complex was analyzed to identify the optimal conditions on synthesizing the compound. The reactant ratio between EGCG and Cu2+ was explored, and the characteristic peaks and functional groups of the EGCG–Cu complex were scrutinized by UV–Visible and Fourier-Transform Infrared spectrophotometers. Finally, the efficacy difference of bactericidal properties against Escherichia coli suspensions between EGCG and its complex was evaluated as the criteria. Furthermore, comparative studies were performed to gauge the antimicrobial activity of EGCG and its complex at equivalent concentrations. The results demonstrated that the optimal experimental conditions for the complex reaction were a pH of 7, at 40 °C, in a reaction time of 60 min and a reactant ratio of 1:2. By the molar ratio method, the reactant ratio was determined as n(EGCG):n(Cu2+) = 1:2, and the complex reaction was at the phenolic hydroxyl group on the benzene ring of EGCG. Compared to EGCG, the complex demonstrated significant enhancement in bactericidal properties against E. coli and has lower chromaticity.
Full dynamic control of dairy wastewater treatment by aerobic granular sludge using electric conductivity and oxygen uptake rate
Authors: De Vleeschauwer Flinn , Dries Jan
Published: November 2023

The objective of the current study was to determine the applicability of a sensor-based dynamic control strategy for the treatment of real variable dairy wastewater by aerobic granular sludge (AGS) performing enhanced biological phosphorus removal (EBPR). Two parallel sequencing batch reactors (SBRs) were set up that used only an anaerobic feast/aerobic famine microbial selection strategy to successfully obtain sludge granulation. SBR-STA used a fixed cycle length, while the duration of the reaction steps in SBR-DYN was variable. The control strategy was based solely on (derived) signals from low-cost and common sensors. The profile of the electric conductivity during the anaerobic reaction step was related to the microbial release of phosphate (PO4-P) and the associated uptake of dissolved organic carbon (DOC) by polyphosphate-accumulating organisms (PAOs). Control of the aerobic reaction step was based on the oxygen uptake rate (OUR). This resulted in a dynamic reactor operation with significant efficiency gains, such as 32% shorter cycle times and 42% higher sludge loading rates without impairing the effluent quality. These results extend the existing potential of indirect control strategies to full biological nutrient removal processes, which may be of great assistance to the operators and designers of industrial installations.
Developing a RiskScore Model based on Angiogenesis-related
lncRNAs for Colon Adenocarcinoma Prognostic Prediction
Authors: Li Xianguo , Lei Junping , Shi Yongping , Peng Zuojie , Gong Minmin , Shu Xiaogang
Published: November 2023

Aim:

We screened key angiogenesis-related lncRNAs based on colon adenocarcinoma
(COAD) to construct a RiskScore model for predicting COAD prognosis and help reveal the
pathogenesis of the COAD as well as optimize clinical treatment

Background:

Regulatory roles of lncRNAs in tumor progression and prognosis have been confirmed,
but few studies have probed into the role of angiogenesis-related lncRNAs in COAD.

Objective:

To identify key angiogenesis-related lncRNAs and build a RiskScore model to predict
the survival probability of COAD patients and help optimize clinical treatment.

Methods:

Sample data were collected from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and Gene Expression
Omnibus (GEO) database. The HALLMARK pathway score in the samples was calculated using
the single sample gene set enrichment analysis (ssGSEA) method. LncRNAs associated with
angiogenesis were filtered by an integrated pipeline algorithm. LncRNA-based subtypes were classified
by ConsensusClusterPlus and then compared with other established subtypes. A RiskScore
model was created based on univariate Cox, least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO)
regression and stepwise regression analysis. The Kaplan-Meier curve was drawn by applying
R package survival. The time-dependent ROC curves were drawn by the timeROC package. Finally,
immunotherapy benefits and drug sensitivity were analyzed using tumor immune dysfunction
and exclusion (TIDE) software and pRRophetic package.

Results:

Pathway analysis showed that the angiogenesis pathway was a risk factor affecting the
prognosis of COAD patients. A total of 66 lncRNAs associated with angiogenesis were screened,
and three molecular subtypes (S1, S2, S3) were obtained. The prognosis of S1 and S2 was better
than that of S3. Compared with the existing subtypes, the S3 subtype was significantly different
from the other two subtypes. Immunoassay showed that immune cell scores of the S2 subtype
were lower than those of the S1 and S3 subtypes, which also had the highest TIDE scores. We recruited
8 key lncRNAs to develop a RiskScore model. The high RiskScore group with inferior survival
and higher TIDE scores was predicted to benefit limitedly from immunotherapy, but it may
be more sensitive to chemotherapeutics. A nomogram designed by RiskScore signature and other
clinicopathological characteristics shed light on rational predictive power for COAD treatment.

Conclusion:

We constructed a RiskScore model based on angiogenesis-related lncRNAs, which
could serve as potential prognostic predictors for COAD patients and may offer clues for the intervention
of anti-angiogenic application. Our results may help evaluate the prognosis of COAD and
provide better treatment strategies.
Integrating Network Pharmacology and In vivo Experimental Validation to Reveal the Mechanism of FuZheng YiLiu Formula on Estrogen Receptor Positive Breast Cancer
Authors: Xu Yuan , Zhang Ying-xuan , Chen Hong-yu , Chang Li-sheng , Gou Xiao-jun , Chen Wen-li
Published: November 2023

Background and Purpose:

FuZheng YiLiu Formula (FZYL) is a commonly used formula
for postoperative estrogen receptor-positive (ER+) breast cancer and post-radiotherapy
deficiency of both Qi and Yin. FZYL has been used in clinical practice for decades because of its
ability to effectively improve the symptoms of deficiency in cancer patients. However, its mechanism
needs to be further clarified. In this paper, we will observe the effect of FZYL on mice with
ER+ breast cancer and explore the mechanism by which it improves the symptoms of ER+ breast
cancer.

Materials and Methods:

A tumor xenograft mouse model was established to detect tumor growth
in vivo in order to evaluate the pharmacological effects of FZYL on ER+ breast cancer. The main
targets of FZYL were identified by extracting the FZYL components and the corresponding potential
target genes of breast cancer from the established database and constructing a proteinprotein
interaction network of shared genes using the string database. GO functional annotation
and KEGG pathway enrichment analysis were performed, and molecular docking, molecular dynamics
simulations, western blotting analysis, and RT-qPCR were performed to confirm the validity
of targets in the relevant pathways.

Results:

FZYL was able to significantly reduce the size of tumors in vivo and had a significant
therapeutic effect on tumor xenograft mice. GO and KEGG pathway enrichment analyses indicated
that the effects of FZYL may be mediated by oxidative stress levels, apoptotic signaling pathways,
and cell cycle proliferation. By RT-qPCR and protein blotting assays, FZYL targeted the
key targets of TP53, JUN, ESR1, RELA, MYC, and MAPK1 to exert its effects. The key active
components of FZYL are quercetin, luteolin, stigmasterol, and glycitein. Molecular docking and
molecular dynamics simulation results further demonstrated that the key active components of
FZYL are stably bound to the core targets.

Conclusion:

In this study, the potential active ingredients, potential core targets, key biological
pathways, and signaling pathways involved in the treatment of breast cancer with FZYL were
identified, providing a theoretical basis for further anti ER+ breast cancer research.
Denosumab Induces Neoplastic Stromal Cell Apoptosis Via p62
Downregulation Dependent on Autophagy Pathway in Giant Cell Tumour
of Bone
Authors: Chen Xianwei , Ye Fan , He Hao , Chen Gong , Chen Zhifu , Ye En , He Bingjan , Yang Yuqi , Zhang Jing
Published: November 2023

Background:

As the only humanized monoclonal antibody against receptor activator of
nuclear factor-κB ligand (RANKL) for giant cell tumour of bone (GCTB) therapy, denosumab has
limited antitumour effect on neoplastic stromal cells. Nevertheless, its mechanism of action has
not yet been clarified. A previous study has revealed that p62 may play an important role in the antitumour
activity of denosumab.

Objective:

The study aimed to investigate if the mechanism by which denosumab inhibits GCTB
neoplastic stromal cells growth is via p62 modulation and other related mechanisms.

Methods:

p62 expression before and after denosumab therapy was analysed by RT‒qPCR, western
blot, ELISA, and immunohistochemical assays. Two primary neoplastic stromal cells were isolated
from fresh GCTB tumour tissue (L cell) and metastatic tissue (M cell). Cell proliferation, migration,
apoptosis, and autophagy were investigated in p62 knockdown neoplastic stromal cells
transfected by short hairpin RNA lentivirus in vitro. Tumor growth was evaluated in the chick chorioallantoic
membrane model in vivo.

Results:

p62 expression was found to be downregulated following denosumab therapy. The patients
with a decrease in p62 expression had lower recurrence-free survival rates. The proliferation
of M cells was not inhibited by denosumab therapy, but it was restored by p62 knockdown. Moreover,
p62 knockdown inhibited tumour growth in vivo. Denosumab induced M cell apoptosis and
arrested the cell cycle at the G1/G0 transition and these effects were also enhanced by p62 knockdown.
Autophagic flux assays revealed p62 modulation to be dependent on autophagy following
denosumab incubation.

Conclusion:

Denosumab induced neoplastic stromal cells apoptosis via p62 downregulation dependent
on autophagy pathway. The combination of p62 and RANKL knockdown might be a better
strategy than RANKL knockdown alone for GCTB targeted therapy.
A Comparative Study on BRAFV600E Mutation, Sonographic Findings,
and Pathologic Characteristics in Non-invasive Follicular Thyroid
Neoplasm with Papillary-like Nuclear Features (NIFTP) and Invasive
Follicular Variant of Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma (IFVPTC)
Authors: Mohebbi Masoud , Yaghoubi Mohammad Ali , Moradi Ali , Mousavi Zohreh , Dadgar Maliheh , Sahebkar Amirhossein , Gholamimoallem Zeinab
Published: November 2023

Objective:

Noninvasive follicular thyroid neoplasm with papillary-like nuclear features
(NIFTP) comprise a new subgroup of thyroid tumors of follicular origin with borderline histologic
features that lack evidence of either capsular or vascular invasion. In contrast to the invasive follicular
variant of papillary thyroid carcinoma (IFVPTC), adverse events such as cancer-related death,
distant or regional metastases, and structural or biochemical recurrence do not occur in patients with
NIFTP. Many studies have been done to elucidate these two specific types of papillary thyroid cancer
(PTC) and reduce aggressive therapeutic actions. This study compares molecular, cytological, and
radiologic features of NIFTP and IFVPTC.

Materials and Methods:

Two groups of patients with NIFTP and IFVPTC (n = 18 in each group)
who were referred to the endocrine clinic, at Imam Reza Hospital, were enrolled in this crosssectional
study. Molecular analysis for BRAFV600E mutation of thyroid tissue was evaluated for all
cases. Patient data included: age, sex, type of surgery, thyroid sonographic findings, and prior cytological
diagnosis with the Bethesda system for reporting thyroid cytopathology.

Results:

Only two cases in the IFVPTC group were positive for BRAFV600E mutation. The majority of
NIFTP cases were diagnosed as benign lesions (8/18). In contrast, the majority of IFVPTC cases were
diagnosed as suspicious for malignancy on cytology (7/18). The mean nodule size in ultrasound in the
NIFTP group (41.81 ± 20.43 mm) was larger than the IFVPTC group (36.72 ± 20.73 mm) (p =0.47).
Most cases in the IFVPTC group had significantly multiple nodules (72.2%), while most cases in the
NIFTP group (81.3%) had solitary nodules. Nodule composition in both groups was solid and complex;
however, no cystic nodules were detected in ultrasound examinations. Furthermore, no calcification or
lymphadenopathy was seen in the majority of cases in ultrasound. In the IFVPTC group, 47.1% and
35.3% of nodules were hyperechoic and hypoechoic, respectively, while 23.1%, 38.5%, and 23.1% of
nodules in the NIFTP group were heterogenic, hyperechoic, and hypoechoic, respectively.

Conclusion:

According to our findings, only 11.1% of IFVPTC cases were BRAFV600E-positive,
while none of the patients in the NIFTP group showed this mutation. However, IFVPTC was predominantly
associated with a preceding diagnosis of PTC on FNA, and NIFTP was associated with the
preceding diagnosis of benign lesions and follicular neoplasm. Sonographic findings failed to distinguish
NIFTP from IFVPTC.
The miR-210 Primed Endothelial Progenitor Cell Exosomes Alleviate
Acute Ischemic Brain Injury
Authors: Wang Jinju , Chen Shuzhen , Sawant Harshal , Chen Yanfang , Bihl Ji Chen
Published: November 2023

Background::

Stem cell-released exosomes (EXs) have shown beneficial effects on regenerative
diseases. Our previous study has revealed that EXs of endothelial progenitor cells
(EPC-EXs) can elicit favorable effects on endothelial function. EXs may vary greatly in size, composition,
and cargo uptake rate depending on the origins and stimulus; notably, EXs are promising
vehicles for delivering microRNAs (miRs). Since miR-210 is known to protect cerebral endothelial
cell mitochondria by reducing oxidative stress, here we study the effects of miR-210-loaded
EPC-EXs (miR210-EPC-EXs) on ischemic brain damage in acute ischemic stroke (IS).

Methods::

The miR210-EPC-EXs were generated from EPCs transfected with miR-210 mimic.
Middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) surgery was performed to induce acute IS in C57BL/6
mice. EPC-EXs or miR210-EPC-EXs were administrated via tail vein injection 2 hrs after IS. To
explore the potential mechanisms, inhibitors of the vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2
(VEGFR2)/PI3 kinase (PI3K) or tyrosine receptor kinase B (TrkB)/PI3k pathways were used. The
brain tissue was collected after treatments for infarct size, cell apoptosis, oxidative stress, and protein
expression (VEGFR2, TrkB) analyses on day two. The neurological deficit score (NDS) was
evaluated before collecting the samples.

Results::

As compared to EPC-EXs, miR210-EPC-EXs profoundly reduced the infarct volume
and improved the NDS on day two post-IS. 2) Fewer apoptosis cells were detected in the peri-infarct
brain of mice treated with miR210-EPC-EXs than in EPC-EXs-treated mice. Meanwhile, the
oxidative stress was profoundly reduced by miR210-EPC-EXs. 3) The ratios of p-PI3k/PI3k, p-
VEGFR2/VEGFR2, and p-TrkB/TrkB in the ipsilateral brain were raised by miR210-EPC-EXs
treatment. These effects could be significantly blocked or partially inhibited by PI3k, VEGFR2, or
TrkB pathway inhibitors.

Conclusion::

These findings suggest that miR210-EPC-EXs protect the brain from acute ischemia-
induced cell apoptosis and oxidative stress partially through the VEGFR2/PI3k and TrkB/PI3k
signal pathways.
Differentiation of Human Adipose-derived Stem Cells to Exosome-affected
Neural-like Cells Extracted from Human Cerebrospinal Fluid Using
Bioprinting Process
Authors: Cheravi Mojtaba , Baharara Javad , Yaghmaei Parichehreh , Roudbari Nasim Hayati
Published: November 2023

Background:

Advancement in tissue engineering has provided novel solutions for creating
scaffolds as well as applying induction factors in the differentiation of stem cells. The present
research aimed to investigate the differentiation of human adipose-derived mesenchymal
stem cells to neural-like cells using the novel bioprinting method, as well as the effect of cerebrospinal
fluid exosomes.

Methods:

In the present study, the extent of neuronal proliferation and differentiation of adipose-
derived stem cells were explored using the MTT method, immunocytochemistry, and real--
time PCR in the scaffolds created by the bioprinting process. Furthermore, in order to investigate
the veracity of the identity of the CSF (Cerebrospinal fluid) derived exosomes, after the isolation
of exosomes, dynamic light scattering (DLS), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and atomic
force microscopy (AFM) techniques were used.

Results:

MTT findings indicated survivability and proliferation of cells in the scaffolds created by
the bioprinting process during a 14-day period. The results obtained from real-time PCR showed
that the level of MAP2 gene (Microtubule Associated Protein 2) expression increased on days 7
and 14, while the expression of the Nestin gene (intermediate filament protein) significantly decreased
compared to the control. The investigation to confirm the identity of exosomes indicated
that the CSF-derived exosomes had a spherical shape with a 40-100 nm size.

Conclusion:

CSF-derived exosomes can contribute to the neuronal differentiation of adipose-
derived stem cells in alginate hydrogel scaffolds created by the bioprinting process.
Anti-lung Cancer Activity of Synthesized Substituted 1,4-Benzothiazines: An Insight
from Molecular Docking and Experimental Studies
Authors: Amin Andleeb , Zubaid-Ul-Khazir  , Ji Arfa , Bhat Basharat Ahmad , Murtaza Dar , Hurrah Aaqib A. , Bhat Imtiyaz A. , Parveen Shaheena , Nisar Syed , Sharma Praveen Kumar
Published: November 2023

Background:

Thiazine, a 6-membered distinctive heterocyclic motif with sulfur and nitrogen atoms, is
one of the heterocyclic compounds that functions as a core scaffold in a number of medicinally significant molecules.
Small thiazine-based compounds may operate simultaneously on numerous therapeutic targets and by
employing a variety of methods to halt the development, proliferation, and vasculature of cancer cells. We have,
herein, reported a series of substituted 1,4 benzothiazines as potential anticancer agents for the treatment of lung
cancer.

Methods:

In order to synthesize 2,3-disubstituted-1,4 benzothiazines in good yield, a facile green approach for
the oxidative cycloaddition of 2-amino benzenethiol and 1,3-dicarbonyls employing a catalytic amount of ceric
ammonium nitrate has been devised. All the molecules have been characterized by spectral analysis and tested for
anticancer activity against the A-549 lung cancer cell line using various functional assays. Further in silico
screening of compound 3c against six crucial inflammatory molecular targets, such as Il1-α (PDB ID: 5UC6), Il1-
β (PDB ID: 6Y8I), Il6 (PDB ID: 1P9M), vimentin (PDB ID: 3TRT), COX-2 (PDB ID: 5KIR), Il8 (PDB ID:
5D14), and TNF-α (PDB ID: 2AZ5), was done using AutoDock tool.

Results:

Among the synthesized compounds, propyl 3-methyl-3,4-dihydro-2H-benzo[b][1,4]thiazine-2-
carboxylate (3c) was found to be most active based on cell viability assays using A-549 lung cancer cell line and
was found to effectively downregulate various pro-inflammatory genes, like Il1-α, Il1-β, Il6, vimentin, COX-2,
Il8, and TNF-α in vitro. The ability of the molecule to effectively suppress the proliferation and migration of lung
cancer cells in vitro has been further demonstrated by the colony formation unit assay and wound healing assay.
Molecular docking analysis showed the maximal binding affinity (− 7.54 kcal/mol) to be exhibited by compound
3c against IL8.

Conclusion:

A green unconventional route for the synthesis of 2,3-disubstituted-1,4 benzothiazines has been
developed. All the molecules were screened for their activity against lung cancer and the data suggested that the
presence of an additional unbranched alkyl group attached to the thiazine ring increased their activity. Also, in
vitro and in silico modeling confirmed the anti-cancer efficiency of compound 3c, encouraging the exploration of
such small molecules against cancer.
Evaluation of Urban Sprawl and Land Surface Temperature along with Vegetation and Built-up Index for Nagpur City, Maharashtra
Authors: Ansari Tauseef Ahmad , Bade Rashmi G. , Shende A. M. , Pathan Mohd Gulfom , Kadam Anjali D. , Mendhe Ajay M. , Katre Fanindra F. , Deshmukh Abhilasha G. , Khan Farhan , Ghaffar Abdul
Published: November 2023

Introduction:

Land use and Land cover (LULC) are now major worldwide issues. The
need for land is growing due to urbanisation and industrialisation, thus to meet this need, forest
and vegetation land are transformed to open land that is either utilised for colonisation of urban
areas or industrial usage. Patents are done on the calculation of LST.

Method:

The study aims to provide a detailed analysis of land and temperature change with variation
in Normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) and normalized difference build-up index
(NDBI) for the study area using a geospatial technique. The LULC classification is performed
based on four classes which are Bare land, Built-up, Vegetation, and Waterbodies from the year
2000 to 2020. The classified data is further used to extract the Land Surface Temperature (LST)
data from the thermal band to generate LST maps. The NDVI and NDBI maps are also generated
using the land sat imageries. From the above-mentionedanalysis, it is found that Nagpur city temperature
has risen by 3.67 °C in two decades. Whereas, LULC results show that bare land and
vegetation decreased by 11.88% and 14.93% respectively, while an increase is seen for built-up
and water bodies by 25.62% and 0.19% respectively.

Result:

Regression analysis between temperature and NDVI, NDBI shows that temperature and
NDVI have a negation relation and NDBI has a positive relation with temperature (Pearson’s r:
between -0.89 to -0.81and between 0.90 to 0.81respectively) for both the years. The increased
temperature is a result of urbanization in the study area. The study reveals that for assessment of
LULC and LST with the incorporation of GIS and Remote sensing can be effective and swift.

Conclusion:

This study recommends that policymakers develop policies that should minimize the
transition of different classes and check the outcome of industries and the temperature of the
surroundings.
Impacts of Different Sources of Carbonates on Growth of Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. lycopersici in Different Growth Media
Authors: Akram H. , Hussain S. , Butt Talib E.
Published: November 2023

Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. lycopersici (FOL) is the most common soil-borne pathogen that causes wilt in many plant crops, among which the tomato is one of the most susceptible crops. This experiment is conducted to analyse the impacts of inorganic carbon compounds i.e., calcium carbonate CaCO3, sodium carbonate Na2CO3 and potassium bicarbonate KHCO3 on the growth of FOL causing wilt in tomato plant in different culture media including Malt Extract Agar (MEA), Potato Dextrose Agar (PDA) and V8. Three concentrations viz 0.5 g/L, 1 g/L and 1.5 g/L of each carbonate are applied. The study indicates that the efficiency of carbon compounds is related to the nature of the media. Among various carbon compounds tested in the present study, maximum growth is obtained with KHCO3 while FOL showed least growth with Na2CO3 in each of the three media. MEA has more profound effect on limiting the growth and biomass of the fungus than compared to V8 and PDA. This shows Fusarium growth is restricted in the chemical environment containing Na2CO3 and MEA. In addition, the study reflects that Fusarium thrives well in PDA containing KHCO3 in each of its three concentrations which may be involved in vegetative and reproductive growth. This study paves a path for further research on how the growth behavior of FOL can be controlled under the influence of inorganic carbon compounds in the soil and yet in the face of environmental changes.