bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
KIF20A Promotes CRC Progression and the Warburg Effect through the
C-Myc/HIF-1α Axis
Authors: Wu Min , Wu Xianqiang , Han Jie
Published: December 2023

Background:

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a prevalent form of cancer globally,
characterized by a high mortality rate. Therefore, discovering effective therapeutic approaches for
CRC treatment is critical.

Methods:

The levels of KIF20A in CRC clinical samples were determined using Western Blot and
immunofluorescence assay. SW480 cells were transfected with siRNA targeting KIF20A, while
HT-29 cells were transfected with a KIF20A overexpression vector. Cell viability and apoptosis of
CRC cells were assessed using CCK-8 and TUNEL analysis. Migration ability was investigated
using Transwell. The levels of pyruvate, lactate and ATP were determined through corresponding
assay kits. Western Blot was applied to confirm the level of proteins associated with glycolysis, cMyc, HIF-1α, PKM2 and LDHA. Subsequently, functional rescue experiments were conducted to
investigate further the regulatory relationship between KIF20A, c-Myc, and HIF-1α in colorectal
cancer (CRC), employing the c-Myc inhibitor 10058-F4 and c-Myc overexpression plasmids.

Results:

KIF20A was up-regulated in vivo and in vitro in CRC. KIF20A knockdown inhibited cell
viability and migration while promoting cell apoptosis in SW480 cells. Conversely, overexpression
of KIF20A yielded contrasting effects in HT-29 cells. Moreover, inhibition of KIF20A restrained
the pyruvate, lactate production and ATP level, whereas overexpression of KIF20A enhanced the
Warburg effect. Western Blot indicated that knockdown KIF20A attenuated the levels of c-Myc,
HIF-1α, PKM2 and LDHA. In addition, rescue experiments further verified that KIF20A enhanced
the Warburg effect by the KIF20A/c-Myc/HIF-1α axis in CRC.

Conclusion:

KIF20A, being a crucial regulator in the progression of CRC, has the potential to be a
promising therapeutic target for the treatment of CRC
The Development of the Combination Drug Leukovir® Tablets for the
Treatment of Multiple Sclerosis: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Kalinichenko Elena N. , Babitskaya Svetlana V.
Published: December 2023

The review is devoted to the development and study of the drug Leukovir® (cladribine+
ribavirin) and its use in the treatment of relapsing-remitting and secondary progressive
forms of multiple sclerosis, a chronic neurodegenerative disease aiming the risk reduction of relapse
and progression of a disability. In clinical trials Leukovir® has proved to be efficient by up to
56 weeks for the treatment of relapsing-remitting and secondary progressive forms of multiple
sclerosis. The drug is registered in the Republic of Belarus. The efficacy, safety and tolerability
profile of the drug Leukovir® suggests that it is well suited for disease-modifying therapy of multiple
sclerosis. Patients require four 35-day courses of treatment, each consisting of seven days of
treatment followed by a break of 28 days. The use of Leukovir® has contributed to the suppression
of inflammatory process activity according to MRI data and stabilization of the clinical condition.
It has reduced the number of relapses in patients with relapsing-remitting and secondary-progressive
forms of multiple sclerosis.
Study of Osteopontin as a Marker of Arteriovenous Shunt Stenosis in
Hemodialysis Patients
Authors: Elbarbary Marwa R. , Ahmed Laila A. , El-Adl Doaa A. , Ezzat Alshimaa A. , Nassib Sherif A.
Published: December 2023

Introduction:

Although arteriovenous fistula (AVF) is the recommended access for hemodialysis
(HD), it carries a high risk for stenosis. Since osteopontin (OPN) is implicated in the process
of vascular calcification in HD patients, OPN may be a marker for AVF stenosis. The present study
evaluated OPN as a potential marker of AVF stenosis in HD patients.

Methods:

Diagnosing a stenotic lesion was made by combining B mode with color and pulse wave
Doppler imaging. Criteria for diagnosis of stenotic AVF included 50% reduction in diameter in B
mode in combination with a 2-3-fold increase of peak systolic velocity compared with the unaffected
segment.

Results:

The present study included 60 HD patients with stenotic AVF and 60 patients with functional
AVF. Comparison between the two groups revealed that patients in the former group had significantly
higher serum OPN levels [median (IQR): 17.1 (12.1-30.4) vs 5.8 (5.0-10.0) ng/mL, p<0.001].
All patients were classified into those with low (<s median) and with high (≥ median) OPN levels.
Comparison between these groups revealed that the former group had a significantly lower frequency
of stenotic AVF (31.7 vs 68.3%, p<0.001) and a longer time to AVF stenosis [mean (95% CI): 68.4
(54.7-82.1) vs 46.5 (39.6-53.4) months, p=0.001].

Conclusion:

OPN levels in HD patients may be useful markers for predicting and detecting AVF
stenosis.
Evaluation of Clinical, Echocardiographic, and Therapeutic Characteristics,
and Prognostic Outcomes of Coexisting Heart Failure among Patients with
Atrial Fibrillation: The Jordan Atrial Fibrillation (JoFib) Study
Authors: Alrabadi Nasr , Al-Nusair Mohammed , El-zubi Farah K. , Tashtoush Mais , Alzoubi Osama , Khamis Sa’ed , Masadeh Majd M. , Alzoubi Karem H. , Al-Hiari Mohammed , Hammoudeh Ayman
Published: December 2023

Background:

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most commonly encountered cardiac arrhythmia
in clinical practice. Heart failure (HF) can occur concurrently with AF.

Aim:

We compared different demographic, clinical, and echocardiographic characteristics between
patients with AF+HF and patients with AF only. Furthermore, we explored whether concurrent HF
independently predicts several outcomes (all-cause mortality, cardiovascular mortality, ischemic
stroke/systemic embolism (IS/SE), major bleeding, and clinically relevant non-major bleeding
(CRNMB)).

Materials and Methods:

Comparisons between the AF+HF and the AF-only group were carried out.
Multivariable Cox proportional hazard models were constructed for each outcome to assess whether
HF was predictive of any of them while controlling for possible confounding factors.

Results:

A total of 2020 patients were included in this study: 481 had AF+HF; 1539 had AF only.
AF+HF patients were older, more commonly males, and had a higher prevalence of diabetes mellitus,
dyslipidemia, coronary artery disease, and chronic kidney disease (p≤0.05). Furthermore, AF+HF
patients more commonly had pulmonary hypertension and low ejection fraction (p≤0.001). Finally,
HF was independently predictive of all-cause mortality (adjusted HR 2.17, 95% CI (1.66-2.85) and
cardiovascular mortality (adjusted HR 2.37, 95% CI (1.68-3.36).

Conclusion:

Coexisting AF+HF was associated with a more labile and higher-risk population among
Jordanian patients. Furthermore, coexisting HF independently predicted higher all-cause mortality
and cardiovascular mortality. Efforts should be made to efficiently identify such cases early and treat
them aggressively.
Endocrine Disorders and Peripheral Arterial Disease – A Series of Reviews
Cushing Syndrome-Cortisol Excess
Authors: P Poredoš , GH Schernthaner , A Blinc , DP Mikhailidis , M Jensterle , P Anagnostis , PL Antignani , K Bajuk Studen , M Šabović , MK Ježovnik
Published: December 2023

:

Cushing syndrome (CS), characterised by endogenous or exogenous glucocorticoid hormone
excess, is associated with several systemic complications, including impaired glucose metabolism,
which often becomes clinically manifest as diabetes mellitus (DM). In addition, CS can harm
the arterial wall because of hyperglycaemia, dyslipidaemia, hepatic steatosis, and central obesity.
These metabolic disorders promote atherosclerosis by synthesising adipokines, leptin, and proinflammatory
cytokines. Lower limb arterial complications in CS are common and significantly impact
morbidity and mortality. Furthermore, CS, in combination with DM, is likely to cause more diffuse
vascular disease that predominantly affects distal arterial beds. In conclusion, CS promotes atherosclerosis,
including peripheral artery disease, by causing functional and morphological deterioration
of the arterial vessel wall and increasing the presence of classical risk factors of atherosclerosis.
Factors Associated with Fatal COVID-19 Outcomes among People Living with HIV: A Cohort Study
Authors: Drobyshevskaya Elena , Lebedev Aleksey , Pronin Alexander , Bobkova Marina
Published: December 2023

Background:

People living with HIV (PLHIV) are at increased risk of COVID-19
death. However, information about whether factors related to the HIV-infection influence the
COVID-19 outcome still remains conflicting.

Objective:

Here, we evaluate the risk factors for fatal COVID-19 in a cohort of PLHIV from the
Moscow region, aged >18 years and diagnosed with COVID-19 between March 2020 and December
2021.

Methods:

Demographic, clinical and laboratory data were compared between different
COVID-19 outcomes. To analyze the risk factors associated with COVID-19 death, we employed
the logistic regression method. A total of 566 PLHIV were included in the analysis.

Results:

The majority of individuals, 338 (59.7%), were male; 194 (34.3%) were on antiretroviral
therapy; 296 (52.3%) had a comorbidity; 174 (30.7%) of patients had drug and/or alcohol dependence;
160 (33.1%) patients had CD4 counts <200 cells/μl; 253 (51.9%) had undetectable viral
load. Our analysis revealed that PLHIV >55 years old (OR, 12.88 [95% CI, 2.32-71.62]), patients
with a viral load of more than 1000 copies/ml (OR, 2.45 [95%CI, 1.01-5.98]) and with CD4
counts <200 cell/μl (OR, 2.54 [95%CI, 1.02-6.28]), as well as with a history of cachexia (OR,
3.62 [95%CI, 1.26-10.39]) and pneumocystis pneumonia (OR, 2.47 [95%CI, 1.03-5.92]), and
drug/alcohol dependence (OR, 2.70 [95%CI, 1.36-5.39]) were significantly more likely to die
from COVID-19.

Conclusion:

These data show that people with advanced HIV-1 infection have an increased risk
of fatal COVID-19 outcomes and that there is a need to improve this population’s access to health
services and, hence, increase their survival rates.
A Case Report of NMO Transverse Myelitis
Authors: Lafian Anna , Mahani Tandis , Hojjati Mehrnaz , Sarlati Taraneh
Published: December 2023

Background:

Transverse myelitis is considered one of the cardinal features of neuromyelitis
optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD), an immune-mediated inflammatory condition of
the CNS characterized by severe, immune-mediated demyelination and axonal damage predominantly
targeting optic nerves and spinal cord. We describe a case in which a diagnosis of NMOSD
was established, associated with West Nile Virus (WNV) infection.

Case Summary:

A healthy 18-year-old female presented with intractable hiccups and rapidly progressing
paraparesis. MRI demonstrated T2 edema extending from the medulla to the conus, consistent
with longitudinally extensive transverse myelitis. Serum and CSF Aquaporin-4 IgG
(AQP4) were both positive with high titers. In conjunction with antiviral therapy, immunomodulatory
treatment was initiated using pulse methylprednisolone, plasmapheresis and Rituximab. A
month and a half after admission, the patient was fully ambulatory with no residual symptoms. On
her rheumatology follow-up visit, West Nile Virus-specific IgM in CSF was found to be positive
from the patient’s initial presentation.

Conclusion:

We propose that West Nile Virus may have been the autoimmune trigger to the patient’s
development of NMOSD, highlighting the importance of evaluating viral triggers in autoimmune
diseases.
Antibiotic-resistant Pattern of Isolated Bacteria from Selected Foods Sold
at the Street Side Stalls and Restaurants of Tangail Municipality,
Bangladesh
Authors: Afrin Rezuana , Parvin Feroza , Ali Md. Firoz , Reza Md. Sajib Al , Mamun Shamim Al , Latif Mahmuda Binte , Mahmud Shahin
Published: December 2023

Objectives::

The goal of this investigation was to determine the microbial load with special
emphasis on total viable count (TVC), total coliform count (TCC), total E. coli (TE.cC), and
Staphylococcus spp. counts (TSC) in food samples collected from selected areas of Tangail municipality,
Bangladesh.

Methods::

An intensive study was carried out from December 2021 to March 2022 in the Tangail
district of Bangladesh for investigation. A total of 5 types of food samples (15 from street side
stalls and 15 from the selected restaurants; n= 30) were collected with a semi-structured-based
questionnaire and tested by using different standard microbiological methods. Biochemical and
antibiogram tests were performed to confirm the bacterial isolates and antibiotic-resistant patterns

Results::

The results revealed that the values of TVC, TCC, TE.cC and TSC were found in the
range of 2.5 ×106 - 8.9 ×108, 2.5×105 - 7.1×107, 1.9×103 - 5.6×105 and 5.0×105 - 4.6×106 CFU/ml
in street vended foods and 5.5 ×105 - 9.5 ×106, 4.3×104 - 7.1×105, 0 to 3.9×104 and 3.1×104 -
6.6×105 CFU/ml in restaurant foods. The E. coli isolates displayed the highest resistance rates to
amoxicillin (80%), whereas Staphylococcus spp. showed 90% resistance to ampicillin.

Conclusion::

From the interview and observational assessment, it was found that the food service
system was not well managed, and there was a lack of hygiene practices. Thus, the study identified
the foods from selected areas as carriers of food-borne pathogens.
The Novelty of using Obesity Indices as Blood Pressure Predictors
Authors: Alkhatib Buthaina , Agraib Lana M. , Al-Shami Islam , AL-Dalaeen Anfal
Published: December 2023

Aims:

To study the association between selected obesity indices, systolic blood pressure (SBP), and diastolic blood pressure (DBP).

Methods:

A cross-sectional study was conducted on 491 Jordanian adults (19-65 years old). The
sociodemographic data, anthropometrics, and blood pressure were measured and recorded. Obesity indices (Conicity Index (CI), Abdominal volume index (AVI), Body Roundness Index
(BRI), and Weight-adjusted-waist index (WWI)) were calculated using standard validated formulas

Results:

Based on age, the SBP had a significant moderate correlation with BRI and AVI in all
age groups. In the age group 20 to 34 years, SBP had a significantly moderate correlation with
CI, and DBP had a significantly moderate correlation with BRI and AVI. In the age group of 35
to 44 years, DBP had a significantly moderate correlation with CI, BRI, WWI, and AVI. For the
age group of 45 to 65 years, the SBP had a significantly moderate correlation with all the obesity
indexes, opposite to DBP. Obesity indices explain 23.6 to 24.1 % of the changeability in SBP,
and one unit increase in them, increased SBP ranges from 0.61±0.14 to 19.88±4.45. For DBP,
obesity indices explained 15.9% to 16.3% of the variability in DBP, and raising them by one unit
led to an increase in the DBP range from 0.27±0.11 to 10.08±4.83.

Conclusion:

All the studied obesity indices impacted SBP and DBP with the highest reported
effect for AVI and BRI and a lower impact for WWI. The impact of obesity indices on DBP was
affected by age group.
Neuroprotective Potential of Orientin with Antiepileptic Drugs against
Pentylenetetrazole-induced Kindling Model and Evaluation of Behavioral
Assessment in Mice
Authors: Shrivastava Aman , Gupta Jeetendra K. , Shah Kamal
Published: December 2023

Background::

The neuroprotective effect of bioflavonoids has been demonstrated in epileptic
disorder.

Objective::

The objective of this study was to investigate the anticonvulsant and adjuvant effects of the
bioflavonoid and explore behavioural responses of orientin (Ore) on kindled mice induced by pentylenetetrazole
[PTZ].

Methods::

Albino Swiss mice weighing 20-30 g were divided into nine groups [n=6]. Prior to the PTZ
dose, alternatively, ore [10 mg/kg, i.p.] was given for 7 days, dissolved in 6% w/v carboxymethylcellulose
[CMC] salt. On the 7th day, saline was solubilized with Lamotrigine [Lmt], Phenobarbital [Pb],
and Gabapentin [Gbp] and administered as separate intraperitoneal [i.p.] injections 30 minutes prior to
the PTZ dose. For the development of kindling seizures in mice, PTZ [30 mg/kg, i.p.] was delivered to
all the mice for 12 days, alternatively until the animals appeared to develop full motor muscle jerking
seizures. Mice who survived from complete motor seizures were selected for further experimentation.

Results::

Data showed that anticonvulsive activity was exhibited by the control. Ore [10 mg/kg] with
PB [40 mg/kg, i.p.] was administered on the 12th day and showed an increase in transfer delays [ITL
and RTL].

Conclusion::

Anti-seizure efficacy of drugs was investigated at the effective dose of ore at 10 mg/kg +
PB 40mg/kg in group 7 and was found to have promising therapeutic outcomes and potency in therapeutic
strategies and associated concerns.
Mechanism of Polygala-Acorus in Treating Autism Spectrum Disorder Based on Network Pharmacology and Molecular Docking
Authors: Chen Haozhi , Zhou Changlin , Li Wen , Bian Yaoyao
Published: December 2023

Background:

Recent epidemic survey data have revealed a globally increasing prevalence
of autism spectrum disorders (ASDs). Currently, while Western medicine mostly uses a
combination of comprehensive intervention and rehabilitative treatment, patient outcomes remain
unsatisfactory. Polygala-Acorus, used as a pair drug, positively affects the brain and kidneys,
and can improve intelligence, wisdom, and awareness; however, the underlying mechanism
of action is unclear.

Objective:

We performed network pharmacology analysis of the mechanism of Polygala–
Acorus in treating ASD and its potential therapeutic effects to provide a scientific basis for the
pharmaceutical’s clinical application.

Methods:

The chemical compositions and targets corresponding to Polygala–Acorus were obtained
using the Traditional Chinese Medicine Systematic Pharmacology Database and Analysis
Platform, Chemical Source Website, and PharmMapper database. Disease targets in ASD were
screened using the DisGeNET, DrugBank, and GeneCards databases. Gene Ontology functional
analysis and metabolic pathway analysis (Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes) were
performed using the Metascape database and validated via molecular docking using AutoDock
Vina and PyMOL software.

Results:

Molecular docking analysis showed that the key active components of Polygala-
Acorus interacted with the following key targets: EGFR, SRC, MAPK1, and ALB. Thus, the
key active components of Polygala-Acorus (sibiricaxanthone A, sibiricaxanthone B tenuifolin,
polygalic acid, cycloartenol, and 8-isopentenyl-kaempferol) have been found to bind to EGFR,
SRC, MAPK1, and ALB.

Conclusion:

This study has preliminarily revealed the active ingredients and underlying mechanism
of Polygala-Acorus in the treatment of ASD, and our predictions need to be proven by
further experimentation.
Activation of the Complement Lectin Pathway by Iron Oxide Nanoparticles and Induction of Pro-inflammatory Immune Response by Macrophages
Authors: Khan Haseeb A. , Kishore Uday , Alrokayan Salman H. , Ibrahim Khalid E.
Published: December 2023

Aims:

Nanoparticles are important agents for targeted drug delivery to tissues or organs,
or even solid tumour in certain instances. However, their surface charge distribution makes
them amenable to recognition by the host immune mechanisms, especially the innate immune
system, which interferes with their intended targeting, circulation life, and eventual fate in the
body. We aimed to study the immunological response of iron oxide nanoparticles (Fe-NPs) and
the role of the complement system in inducing an inflammatory cascade.

Background:

The complement system is an important component of the innate immune system
that can recognise molecular patterns on the pathogens (non-self), altered self (apoptotic and
necrotic cells, and aggregated proteins such as beta-amyloid peptides), and cancer cells. It is no
surprise that clusters of charge on nanoparticles are recognised by complement subcomponents,
thus activating the three complement pathways: classical, alternative, and lectin.

Objective:

This study aimed to examine the ability of Fe-NPs to activate the complement system
and interact with macrophages in vitro.

Methods:

Complement activation following exposure of macrophage-like cell line (THP-1) to
Fe-NPs or positive control was analysed by standard protocol. Real-time PCR was used for
mRNA-level gene expression analysis, whereas multiplex cytokine array was used for proteinlevel
expression analysis of cytokines and chemokines.

Results:

Fe-NPs activated all three pathways to a certain extent; however, the activation of the
lectin pathway was the most pronounced, suggesting that Fe-NPs bind mannan-binding lectin
(MBL), a pattern recognition soluble receptor (humoral factor). MBL-mediated complement
activation on the surface of Fe-NPs enhanced their uptake by THP-1 cells, in addition to dampening
inflammatory cytokines, chemokines, growth factors, and soluble immune ligands.

Conclusion:

Selective complement deposition (via the lectin pathway in this study) can make
pro-inflammatory nanoparticles biocompatible and render them anti-inflammatory properties.
Meta-analysis of the Mesenchymal Stem Cells Immortalization Protocols:
A Guideline for Regenerative Medicine
Authors: Elias Ferreira Stricker Priscila , de Oliveira Nathalia Barth , Felipe Mogharbel Bassam , Lührs Larissa , Irioda Ana Carolina , Abdelwahid Eltyeb , Regina Cavalli Luciane , Zotarelli-Filho Idiberto José , de Carvalho Katherine Athayde Teixeira
Published: December 2023

Background::

This systematic review describes the most common methodologies for immortalizing
human and animal mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). This study follows the rules of
PRISMA and is registered in the Institutional Review Board of PROSPERO International of systematic
reviews, numbered protocol code: CRD42020202465.

Method::

The data search systematization was based on the words “mesenchymal stem cell” AND
“immortalization.” The search period for publications was between 2000 and 2022, and the databases
used were SCOPUS, PUBMED, and SCIENCE DIRECT. The search strategies identified 384 articles:
229 in the SCOPUS database, 84 in PUBMED, and 71 in SCIENCE DIRECT. After screening
by titles and abstracts, 285 articles remained. This review included thirty-nine articles according to
the inclusion and exclusion criteria.

Result::

In 28 articles, MSCs were immortalized from humans and 11 animals. The most used immortalization
methodology was viral transfection. The most common immortalized cell type was the
MSC from bone marrow, and the most used gene for immortalizing human and animal MSCs was
hTERT (39.3%) and SV40T (54.5%), respectively.

Conclusion::

Also, it was observed that although less than half of the studies performed tumorigenicity
assays to validate the immortalized MSCs, other assays, such as qRT-PCR, colony formation in
soft agar, karyotype, FISH, and cell proliferation, were performed in most studies on distinct MSC
cell passages.
Advancements in Nanotechnology for Enhanced Antifungal Drug Delivery: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Srivastava Rajat , Rawat Ajay Kumar Singh , Mishra Manoj Kumar , Patel Amit Kumar
Published: December 2023

Infections caused by fungi can be mildly bothersome or fatal, causing life-threatening conditions
or even death. Antifungal drugs have used synthetic chemicals, organic compounds, and phytoconstituents
in their formulations to treat fungal infections. Research into novel antifungal drugs
has progressed more rapidly than into antibacterial treatments. This can be attributed to the low resistance
of fungal infections to antifungal bioactivities and the relatively low incidence of these diseases.
Carrier systems based on nanotechnology have generated much interest recently because of the
incredible potential of these systems. By using nanoarchitecture as a better carrier and drug delivery
system (DDS), we can have greater antifungal effectiveness, bioavailability, targeted action, and less
cytotoxicity, a development made possible using nanotechnology. This review discusses various
nanocarrier-based technologies in addition to other nanotechnological methods. These include liposomes,
transfersomes, ethosomes, niosomes, dendrimers, polymeric nanoparticles, polymer nanocomposites,
metallic nanoparticles, carbon nanomaterials, etc.

:

This review focused on general information regarding fungi infections, different antifungal agent
types and mechanisms of action, and an overview of formulation strategies such as nanotechnology
systems, which are frequently researched for antifungal therapies.

:

We concluded that new drug delivery systems are crucial to delivering antifungal medicines to their
target site with the optimum concentration. The researchers also concentrated on these innovative drug
delivery systems, which primarily focus on regulating and maintaining the release of antifungal drugs.
Recent Innovations and Patents of Lithium Extraction Techniques
from Various Lithium Bearing Solutions
Authors: Aljarrah Sewar , Al-Rawajfeh Aiman E. , Shahid Muhammad Kashif , Qamar Ul Islam
Published: December 2023

Lithium, with its exceptional properties, such as remarkable redox activity and high
specific heat capacity, finds widespread applications in thermonuclear fusion reactors, ceramics,
batteries, aerospace, glass, metal additives, and photo-electricity. The growing demand for clean
technology, especially electric cars and energy storage, has led to a significant rise in global
lithium production. Brines now constitute a major portion of the world's lithium output, driving
research in lithium extraction and purification methods. This study examines recent innovative
research and patents, including various extraction techniques, sorbents, electrolysis-based approaches, and cost-effective methods. The study identifies gaps and limitations in existing lithium extraction technology and proposes future research areas to advance the field. The bibliographic analysis underscores the importance of further investigation to overcome current obstacles and drive progress in lithium extraction.
Numerical Investigation of Turbulent Slot Jets with Various Nanoparticles Shapes
Authors: Boudraa Bouziane , Bessaïh Rachid
Published: December 2023

In this work, a numerical investigation related to the turbulent forced
convection of a water-Al2O3
nanofluid in slot jets impinging on multiple hot
components fixed on the lower wall, using different nanoparticle shapes (spherical,
blades, bricks, cylindrical and platelets), was carried out. The standard k-ε turbulence
model with wall enhanced treatment and two-phase mixture model were used to
analyze the fluid flow and heat transfer. The outcomes revealed that the increase in the
Reynolds number (Re) and volume fraction of nanoparticles (φ) with all nanoparticle
shapes enhanced the heat transfer rate. The platelets nanoparticle's shape significantly
contributes to increasing the heat transfer rate compared with other forms. Also, we
have found that the two-phase mixture model gives a higher average Nusselt number
(Nu) values compared to the single-phase model, and the maximum values of (Nu) is
located around the last block due to the second jet's dominance (J2) compared to the
first jet (J1). We have compared our results with those found in the literature.
Theoretical Study of the Effects of Combustion Duration on Engine Performance
Authors: Brayek Mohamed , Ibraim Amara , Ali Jemni Mohamed , Damak Ali , Driss Zied , Salah Abid Mohamed
Published: December 2023

In this study, a thermodynamic cycle simulation of a four-stroke spark-ignition engine was conducted to predict the engine performance. The single-zone
model was built based on the Wiebe function for the mass fraction burned and
Woschni’s model for the convective heat loss. The first law of thermodynamics was
applied to describe the engine behavior versus the crank angle. These formulas
determine in-cylinder pressure, temperature, mean effective pressure, and effective
power. This study was performed to evaluate the effects of the combustion duration on
the engine performance characteristics. Simulations were carried out on a 98 cm3 four-stroke SI engine set up at 3600 rpm corresponding to the maximum torque (5.7 Nm).
In this study, it was found that under the same operating conditions, accelerating the
combustion does not always increase the power delivered by the engine. The best
engine performance in terms of compromise between heat losses and power delivered
was obtained for the combustion duration corresponding to 60° CA. 
Numerical Study of Natural Convection between Two Concentric Ellipses with Different Shapes and Imposed Temperatures
Authors: Horimek Abderrahmane , Abdelmoumene Farhat , Ait-Messaoudene Noureddine
Published: December 2023

In this work, the laminar natural convection problem for a Newtonian fluid
confined between two concentric ellipses is solved numerically. Two cases of heating
are assumed, an inner wall at high temperature (TH
) and an external one at low
temperature (TC
), then the opposite. Starting from the case of two circles (ellipses with
equal diameters) and arriving at two ellipses, 25 geometries are studied for each type of
heating, which gives 50 geometries in total. The effects of Rayleigh number (Ra),
aspect ratio in addition to the ellipses orientations are investigated. The dynamic and
thermal fields as well as the geometry average Nusselt number calculation
(Nuavg=(Nuavo+Nuavi)/2) are analyzed. Nuavg values are ranked at the end in a descending
order to show which geometry offers the largest heat exchange rate and vice versa, that
is something very useful in practice. It should be noted that a good choice of the
geometry shape may lead to have a more homogeneous thermal field, a result which
goes against the stratifying effect of natural convection that has sometimes to be
avoided.
Where Did They Come From? The Origins of South American Fauna
Authors: Harding Lee E.
Published: December 2023

Where Did They Come From? The Origins of South American Fauna offers a fascinating journey into the origins of South American flora and fauna. Exploring life on the continent before and after the breakup of Gondwana, it delves into how creatures arrived in South America, be it through drifting across oceans or traversing land bridges. From birds and reptiles to mammals and fish, this book provides a comprehensive compendium of biological diversity, discussing their origins and evolutionary paths. Readers will gain insights into the mechanisms of animal dispersal, evolution, and the impact of the Great Biotic Interchange. The book also lists references for further exploration of the subject.

The book is structured into five parts:

Building South America: Covers tectonic movements, climate changes, and breaching isolation.

Shaping South America: Explores the landforms and diverse biomes across the continent.

Vertebrates within South America: Discusses unique amphibians, reptiles, fish, mammals, and birds that evolved on the continent.

Vertebrates immigrating to South America: Examines exotic reptiles, birds, and mammals that found their way to the continent. The author also lists the families of almost all genera of South American animals, while giving knowledge of their origins.

Recent Arrivals - the Great Biotic Interchange: Explores the significant interchange of various species that occurred later.

Ideal for students, biologists, and anyone curious about the natural world, this book is a captivating read that uncovers the incredible history of South American fauna and its evolutionary tapestry.
Utilizing Blockchain Technology to Improve Clinical Trials
Authors: Kumaresh Sakthi , Sharma Neha , Balu Priya Iyer Krishna
Published: December 2023

The development of new drugs by pharmaceutical companies becomes a
challenging task as it takes longer timelines, and the clinical trial process involved
before the introduction of any new drug is risky and highly unpredictable. The patient
data available for the clinical trial process is distributed across several databases, and
the data are stored in different formats; hence it becomes difficult to perform clinical
trials. Many stakeholders (pharmaceutical companies, research labs, patients,
participants, government authorities, and many more) across geography are involved in
the clinical trial process. Cooperation among these stakeholders is necessary to conduct
a clinical trial. A Clinical trial is a complex and time-consuming procedure that faces a
constant challenge of data management, data sharing, and data security, resulting in
being an expensive affair.
Blockchain technology can be used to augment the entire workflow of clinical trials
and overcome the mentioned challenges. It uses consensus protocol for efficient
transmission and communication of data between nodes. Patient recruitment for clinical
trials can be easily managed through “Smart contracts”. Any computational problem
related to patient recruitment for a clinical trial, checking the validity of clinical trials,
can be coded with smart contracts. This paper describes the utilization of blockchain to
collect and store patient data and analysis results in a distributed yet secured manner,
which can be shared in a transparent way and remain immutable as well as allows to
tackle the challenges involved in the clinical trial process.
Securing Clinical Trials Data with Blockchain
Authors: Saluja Payal
Published: December 2023

Discovering and developing new drugs/ medicines is very crucial for the
pharmaceutical industry. The increasing number of drugs approved in recent years
demonstrates the impact of modern drug discovery approaches, digital technologies,
and automated drug development methodologies. Drug development is a systematic
and methodological process of developing a new pharmaceutical drug once the process
of Drug discovery has identified the prime pharmacological component. The structured
sequence of steps followed for drug development aims to ensure the safety and efficacy
of the drug being developed. It includes pre-clinical research on microorganisms and
animals, preparation of detailed data with respect to pharmacology, pharmacokinetics
and toxicology details, application and approval by regulatory authorities and
conduction of clinical trials. The conduction of clinical trials is an expensive affair as it
needs a collaborative effort by multiple stakeholders along with a high level of
monitoring and regulation. The data generated during the lifecycle of clinical trials is
very critical for pharmacological scientific publications, regulatory approval for the
target drug and post-marketing surveillance that ultimately leads to the development of
better decision support systems for drug development. Hence, the data integrity of such
data is of prime importance. Several Clinical data management (CDM) systems have
been developed to ensure seamless collection and management of clinical trial data.
These CDM systems enable useful analysis and decisions supported by authentic data.
However, such systems face several security challenges with respect to privacy,
integrity and authenticity of the clinical data. Another major challenge in conducting
the clinical trials is finding the appropriate willing candidate who is physically and
clinically suitable for the study. In view of the above, it is highly desirable to have a
technology component that can address the above-mentioned issues. In this chapter, the
technologies like blockchain and cloud computing have been introduced to address the
challenges posed by clinical trial data management. The paper also proposes a
blockchain based secure clinical data management system. The proposed system
intends to help the data security issues like data integrity, privacy, ease and quick
access to immutable clinical trial data with thorough access control enabling greater
transparency and accountability.
Medical Imaging Systems Using Blockchain
Authors: Olaniyan Olugbemi T. , Adeniyi Mayowa J. , Adetunji Charles O. , Omoruyi Pius Omosigho , Ghazanfar Shakira , Ajmal Wajya , Dash Sujata , Adeyomoye Olorunsola
Published: December 2023

It has been discovered that in the old electronic health record platform, each
health service unit managed its health records, making sharing difficult on the different
medical platforms. However, it has been discovered that blockchain technology is a
panacea that makes it possible to enable medical service units that are based on
different platforms to share electronic health record data. However, one major
challenge with this approach is the difficulty in storing whole electronic health record
data in the blockchain, given the price and size of the blockchain. As a way out, cloud
computing was ticked as a potential solution. Cloud computing affords a unique
opportunity, including storage of scalability and availability. But again, the electronic
health record with cloud computing advantage may be susceptible to attacks because
sensitive data is transferred through a public channel. The task of sharing and
disseminating medical information and records electronically is inevitable as far as
medical management and treatment combination are concerned. Unfortunately, the old
cloud-based electronic medical record storage platform is hard to achieve data security
sharing. Given the tamper resistance and traceability, blockchain technology makes it
possible for highly sensitive health data to be shared. Therefore, this chapter intends to
provide detailed information on the application of medical imaging systems using
blockchain.
A Blockchain Approach for Health Care Sector to Prevent Fraudulent Activities in Medical Records
Authors: Jain Megha , Kaswan Suresh , Pandey Dhiraj
Published: December 2023

The Electronic Health Record (EHR) systems provide health information
about patients. Data security, integrity, and management of EHR are crucial problems.
Records can be modified and altered by different stockholders as the different users
may be using them in more than one form. Medical records management is a suitable
application for blockchain-enabled records that can be stored, tracked, and managed by
all the transactions to prevent fraudulent activities. A novel framework has been
presented here in the healthcare sector by using the blockchain concept. The major goal
of this article is to implement BlockChain for electronic health records (EHR), and its
decentralized approach eliminates the chance of a single point of failure, making the
system robust. The proposed work also covers the extensible problem faced by
BlockChain in common with the help of an off-chain repository of the data. The results
indicate that computing is much more secure and free from a scam than the traditional
health record system. Finally, the proposed approach suggests scenarios such as EHR
where the introduced approach should prove adequate.
A multi-university study on the predictors of academic resilience of Saudi nursing students
Authors:   Mental Health Nursing Department, College of Nursing, University of Ha’il, Ha’il City, Saudi Arabia, Alshammari Mohammed Hamdan
Published: December 2023

The COVID-19 pandemic has exerted an unprecedented impact on the mental health of nursing students globally, particularly due to the abrupt transition to online education. This study aims to: 1) delineate the demographic and academic profile of Saudi nursing students; 2) evaluate their academic resilience; and 3) identify predictors of academic resilience. Employing a cross-sectional approach, the research highlights the significant influence of gender and grade point average (GPA) on students' academic resilience and psychological well-being. Distinct challenges in academic motivation are evident among both male and female students, while a higher GPA correlates with increased optimism and resilience. This study underscores the enduring resilience and perseverance of nursing students in navigating the challenges posed by the pandemic, both prior to and subsequent to its onset.
Nursing care for diabetes mellitus
Authors: Salihu K.S.
Published: December 2023

Background. Due to the global rise in diabetes patients, nurses of all specialties and positions are increasingly caring for these individuals on a daily basis. The purpose of this study was to examine the latest re­commendations and individual studies on diabetes management and to determine the place of nurses in a multidisciplinary team. Materials and methods. The article used descriptive methods and methods of comparative analysis to determine the characteristics of nursing practice in the management of patients with diabetes. Results. From the information studied, it became clear that nurses should be prepared to receive quality education associated with ongoing support and care in the community, primary health care institutions or in hospitals for such patients. Education in self-management and psychosocial problem solving are key elements of diabetes care and nursing. The Diabetes Self-Management Education and Support program is a crucial tool for patient-nurse communication, involving ongoing psychological support through educational techniques to address questions and concerns from individuals with diabetes and their families. Conclusions. Trained nurses can also perform screening for mental disorders and diabetes complications in order to timely diagnose or prevent their development. Regardless of new technologies or treatments, nurses must never lose their role as advocates for patients’ rights.
Assessment of serum calcium, magnesium and zinc levels in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus in the Ukrainian population
Authors: Kravchenko V.І. , Ivaskiva K.Yu. , Andrusyshyna I.M. , Pankiv V.I. , Khalangot M.D. , Orlenko V.L. , Vasiuk V.L.
Published: December 2023

Background. The research deals with the provision of calcium, magnesium and zinc in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). The purpose was to investigate the serum content of calcium, magnesium and zinc in patients with type 2 DM. Materials and methods. The open-label controlled study included 27 patients with T2DM. The control group consisted of 12 people without endocrine and somatic diseases. 70 % of patients had newly diagnosed DM; in others, the disease duration was up to 5 years. Most of the examined were of mature age, on average 61.83 ± 5.52 years for patients and 55.25 ± 5.52 years for controls. In the group with T2DM, women accounted for 62.96 %, among controls — 63.64 %. Anthropometric measurements and glucose indicators were determined according to a standard procedure. Concentrations of calcium, magnesium, zinc in serum were evaluated by atomic optical emission spectrometry with inductively coupled plasma (PerkinElmer Optima 2100 DV ICP-OES, USA) according to the original procedure approved by the Kundiiev Institute of Occupational Health of the NAMS of Ukraine. Results. The level of fasting blood sugar ranged from 7.1 to 17.2 mmol/l and indicated the presence of T2DM, glycated hemoglobin was from 7.1 to 11.2 %. According to anthropometric data, the group of patients almost completely corresponded to the control group. Although a slight increase in body weight and waist circumference was registered already at the stage of initial diabetes, the level of triglycerides increased significantly, and the level of high-density lipoprotein decreased. A significant reduction in the levels of calcium and magnesium in the blood serum of patients with T2DM was found. The zinc content was at the level of the lower edge of the reference value in 44 % of patients, in the control group — only in 16.6 % of cases. There were no significant differences in this indicator in the observation groups. A high correlation was found between the studied parameters in the blood, as well as an inverse correlation between the fasting glucose level and the content of calcium and magnesium. Conclusions. A significant decrease in the level of calcium and magnesium in the blood of Ukrainian patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus was found. There is a high correlation between serum calcium, magnesium and zinc levels in patients with T2DM. Significant risks of diabetes were revealed when the serum concentration of calcium and magnesium decreased.
Analysis of the selenoprotein P (rs7579) gene polymorphism and expression in patients with chronic pancreatitis combined with hypothyroidism
Authors: Ratsa V.V. , Fediv O.I. , Sydorchuk L.P. , Rossokha Z.I. , Sydorchuk O.I. , Stepan V.T. , Buzdugan I.O.
Published: December 2023

Background. The specific role and place of genetic factors in the development of chronic pancreatitis and hypothyroidism, which determine the activity of glutathione antioxidant protection, have not been clarified. They are interconnected with changes in the fat and carbohydrate metabolism, and also affect the transport and signaling pathways of key nutrients for the work of the immune, endocrine and nervous systems. The purpose of the study is to investigate the selenoprotein P (SEPP1) (rs7579) gene polymorphism and expression in patients with chronic pancreatitis combined with hypothyroidism. Materials and methods. Forty-nine patients with chronic pancreatitis and hypothyroidism and 30 practically healthy individuals passed the screening stage. The SEPP1 (rs7579) gene polymorphism was determined by the polymerase chain reaction. Results. The study showed that out of 98 isolated alleles in patients with chronic pancreatitis and hypothyroidism and 60 alleles of the control group, the G allele of the SEPP1 gene (rs7579, 25191G/A) dominated over the A allele: in the examined patients — by 34.7 % (χ2 = 23.59; p < 0.001), in the practically healthy group — by 53.34 % (χ2 = 34.13; p < 0.001). At the same time, the relative frequency of individual genotypes, as well as wild-type and mutant alleles, probably did not differ between the experimental and control groups. The A allele of the SEPP1 gene (rs7579) slightly increases the risk of chronic pancrea­titis in the studied population, but non-significantly [risk ratio (RR) = 1.43; RR 95% CI (confidence interval): 0.91–2.26; odds ratio (OR) = 1.65; OR 95% CI: 0.88–3.08; p = 0.115]. Conclusions. In patients with chronic pancreatitis who are residents of Northern Bukovyna, mutation of the SEPP1 gene (rs7579, 25191G/A) in the homozygous state occurs with a frequency of 10.2 %, while it is absent in practically healthy people. In both groups, the G allele dominates over the A allele: in the examined patients — by 34.7 % (χ2 = 23.59; p < 0.001), in controls — by 53.34 % (χ2 = 34.13; p < 0.001). SEPP1 gene polymorphism (rs7579, 25191G/A) does not determine the risk of chronic pancreatitis in the population. However, the A allele increases the risk of hypothyroidism in chro­nic pancreatitis patients twice [OR = 2.0; OR 95% CI: 1.09–3.66; p = 0.023], with the lowest chances of its appearance in carriers of the G allele [OR = 0.50; OR 95% CI: 0.27–0.91; p = 0.023]. Mapping of the expression quantitative trait loci on both sides of the SEPP1 gene (rs7579) transcription start site evidenced 152 statistically significant cis-variants of rs7579 of the SEPP1 gene (SELENOP) associations with the expression of 20 genes in 35 different organs and tissues and 22 phenotypic traits.
СЕРДЦЕ КАПИЛЛЯРНОГО МИКРОСКОПА
Authors: Ахметова А.И. , Советников Т.О. , Максимова Н.Е. , Терентьев А.Д. , Ужегов А.А. , Яминский И.В.
Published: December 2023

Сканирующая капиллярная или ион-проводящая микроскопия является уникальным инструментом, позволяющим получить бесконтактным способом 3D-морфологию биологических объектов в естественной среде. Пробоподготовка отличается простотой – нет необходимости вводить флуоресцентные метки или фиксировать образец. Главное достоинство метода – можно отслеживать динамические процессы живых клеток и тканей. Устройство капиллярного микроскопа позволяет не только деликатно визуализировать мягкие биологические объекты, но и получать данные о биомеханических свойствах образца. В данной статье пойдет речь о тонкостях устройства капиллярного микроскопа.