bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nanobody-based chimeric antigen receptor (NbCAR) T cells for in-vivo cancer immunotherapy: A systematic review
Authors: Ebrahimi Fereshteh , Jabbari Marjan , Mohammadi Vahid , Karami Parsa , Esmaeilzadeh Kimia , Elahi Reza , Esmaeilzadeh Abdolreza
Published: July 2024

Background: Conventional chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) construct is produced using the ScFv of a target specific antibody and has encountered significant challenges in treating cancer, e.g., adverse effects, T cell exhaustion, safety concerns, and sub optimal efficacy in solid tumors. An alternative approach could be to use the outer portion of a nano antibody, named the VHH, for CAR production. The CAR construct produced with this method is named the "nanobody CAR." Nanobody CAR T cells are less immunogenic, more efficient, and easier to manufacture, and thus might be a reliable alternative approach to overcome the barriers associated with conventional CAR T therapy.
Materials and methods: Following a comprehensive search on PubMed, Scopus, Web of Sciences, and Google Scholar, available preclinical animal model studies which focused on the safety and efficacy of nanobody CAR T therapy in cancer were included.
Results: 338 studies were identified (up to September 15th, 2023), of which 17 studies used nanobody CAR T cells against tumor cells in animal models of different malignancies, including acute leukemia (seven studies), lymphoma (foure studies), hepatocellular carcinoma (three studies), multiple myeloma (two studies), melanoma (one study), colon adenocarcinoma (one studies), TNBC (one study), lung tumor (one study), ovarian adenocarcinoma (one study), multiple myeloma (two studies), and pancreatic cancer (one study). The most common CAR structure was the second generation and, in some cases, the third generation. CD28, 4 1BB, and ICOS were used as co stimulatory domains in the structure. Compared to the control groups, nanobody CAR T cells had a better performance in reducing tumor volume and improving survival. The included studies incorporated significant heterogeneity regarding their reported outcomes and study design, making it impossible to conduct a meta analysis. The Systematic Review Centre for Laboratory animal Experimentation (SYRCLE) tool was used to assess the risk of bias, which showed potential bias in the included studies.
Conclusion: According to small size, ideal stability, high affinity, and manufacturing practicality, nanobody CAR T cells serve as a promising strategy to improve in vivo mice survival and reduce tumor size. To obtain more reliable results, future studies should focus on diminishing the heterogeneity of study design and bias.
Protocol registration: PROSPERO; registration number CRD42023425817, registered June 13th, 2023
Follicular Variant of Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma Presenting as a Colloid Nodular Goiter: A Case Report with Histopathological Evaluation
Authors: Younis Danny , Alkhani Kinaz , Kabalan Younes
Published: July 2024

Background
Papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) is the most common type of thyroid cancer, and the follicular variant (FVPTC) in particular, presents unique diagnostic challenges. This case report details the presentation, diagnosis, and treatment of a 31-year-old female patient initially diagnosed with a colloid nodular goiter but was later found to have FVPTC.
Case Presentation:
A 31-year-old female presented with a painless mass on the right side of her neck. Initial ultrasound and fine-needle aspiration (FNA) suggested a benign colloid nodule. Surgical excision of the lobe containing the mass and subsequent histopathological examination later confirmed FVPTC. The patient had to undergo a total thyroidectomy followed by radioactive iodine therapy and has been monitored for recurrence.
Conclusion
This case underscores the limitations of ultrasound and FNA in diagnosing thyroid nodules and the importance of histopathological examination for accurate diagnosis and treatment planning.
Minimum Pulse Rate During Sleep: A Potential Non-Invasive Biomarker for Subtle Abnormalities in Mini-Mental State Examination from an Exploratory Cross-Sectional Multifaceted Survey in Active Older Adults
Authors: Tanaka Yuji , Saito Kozo , Tsuchiya Kyoichiro , Iwata Yusuke , Ando Takashi , Mochizuki Kazuki , Taniguchi Tamami , Mitsui Takahiko
Published: July 2024

Purpose
Developing quantitative indicators of daily life that can detect subtle cognitive decline is a significant challenge in the growing population of older adults worldwide. In this multifaceted survey conducted on active older adults, we aimed to explore novel indicators associated with subtle abnormalities in brief dementia screening tests.
Methods
Data were collected from 35 older adults who were not certified for long-term care or diagnosed with cognitive impairment using questionnaires, the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), body composition measurements, sleep apnoea testing, activity monitoring, motor function assessments, blood tests, and nutrient analyses. Of the 89 factors examined in this study, several less invasive indicators for cognitive impairment were identified using Spearman’s correlation analysis, two-group comparison, and multiple linear regression model analysis.
Results
An elevated minimum pulse rate during sleep emerged as the most significant non-invasive marker correlated with both MMSE scores and the classification of cognitive impairment risk (mild cognitive impairment or dementia).
Conclusion
These findings could expedite further research into early cognitive decline detection among older adults and facilitate early intervention.
HIV Knowledge and Its Associated Sociodemographic Factors among Female Sex Workers in Malaysia
Authors: Yong Kang Cheah ,   School of Economics, Finance and Banking, College of Business, Universiti Utara Malaysia, Kedah, Malaysia, Suleiman Anita , Ramly Mazliza ,   HIV/STI/Hepatitis C Sector, Ministry of Health Malaysia, Putrajaya, Malaysia,   HIV/STI/Hepatitis C Sector, Ministry of Health Malaysia, Putrajaya, Malaysia
Published: July 2024

Background: Female sex workers (FSWs) have a high risk of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection. In spite of the alarming fact that a large proportion of FSWs does not have adequate HIV knowledge, the association between sociodemographic factors and HIV knowledge among FSWs have yet to be thoroughly explored in the context of Malaysia. The aims of this study are the following: i) to determine HIV knowledge and ii) to examine the associated factors of HIV knowledge. Methods: An observational cross-sectional study was conducted. Data from the Integrated Biological and Behavioral Surveillance Survey (IBBS) 2017 (n = 630) were used. The survey was carried out in all states in Malaysia and its duration was 4 months (from March 2017 to June 2017). Ordered probit regressions were utilised to shed light on the association between sociodemographic variables and levels of HIV knowledge. Results: A large proportion of FSWs had middle-level HIV knowledge (44.1%). FSWs with tertiary-level education were 19.5% more likely to have high-level HIV knowledge compared to those without formal education. The probability of having low-level HIV knowledge was 6.8% lower among FSWs with monthly incomes of RM1,500–RM1,999 than those having incomes of ≤ RM499. Being single instead of married was associated with 7.6%–8% lower probabilities of having lowand middle-level HIV knowledge. Conclusion: Public health interventions to improve FSWs’ HIV knowledge need to take into consideration the role of sociodemographic factors.
Кладрибин в лечении многоочагового мультисистемного гистиоцитоза из клеток Лангерганса у пациента с неблагоприятным прогнозом. Клиническое наблюдение
Authors: Потапенко Всеволод Геннадьевич , Бурлаченко Е. П. , Эмиль Ж. -Ф. , Забутова Е. В. , Имянитов Е. Н. , Небелицкая О. В. , Котова Н. А. , Козыро В. В. , Самородова И. А. , Серков А. В. , Скорюкова К. А. , Туркевич Е. А. , Медведева Н. В.
Published: July 2024

Langerhans cell histiocytosis is a hematologic clonal disease. The treatment of localized histiocytosis includes local methods such as radiotherapy or surgery. In cases of disseminated lesions with multiple system damage, chemotherapy is administered, which provides recovery in some patients. The present paper is a case report of multifocal multisystem Langerhans cell histiocytosis with bone, liver, spleen, abdominal lymph node and pituitary lesions in a 40-year-old patient. The diagnosis was verified by histology and immunohistochemistry of bone biopsy specimens. Polymerase chain reaction revealed no V600E mutation in the BRAF gene in tumor tissue. Persistent antitumor response was achieved after 6 chemotherapy cycles with cladribine monoregimen. This drug was well tolerated by the patient. By the time of this publication, the patient had preserved the persistent response for 38 months.
Implementation of an intelligent drinking water supply system using GIS mapping and smart metering for reliable water supply management
Authors: Pongiannan R. K. , Brindha R. , Geetha A. , Ganesan K. , JayeKumar M. , Maddileti Telugu , Preethivarshni K.
Published: July 2024

The demand for water resources has increased due to population growth and the effects of cyclical droughts on irrigated agriculture. Due to these current circumstances, there is an imbalance between the limited supply of water and the rising demand for water. According to this perspective, accurate data on the spatial and temporal patterns of stockholder water demand can only be obtained through effective water planning and management. Geographic information system (GIS) mapping and smart metering are being used to implement intelligent water supply systems for dependable water supply management. In water supply systems, GIS models aid in data comprehension, analysis, and querying using advanced technologies that can significantly enhance work in the field of urban planning.
Evaluation of sediment generation and transport: a case study of Thwake Dam in Kenya
Authors: Maiyo Gilbert , Ndiba Peter Kuria , Odira Patts M. , Nyangeri Ezekiel
Published: July 2024

The study aimed to evaluate sediment generation, transport, and deposition into the Thwake reservoir. This research sought to assess sediment transport patterns and their potential impact on the reservoir using regional and numerical techniques. The Thwake River basin constitutes 30% of the dam's catchment area and experiences high soil-loss due to its semi-arid climate, steep slopes, and lack of vegetation. The river system in the sub-basin is ephemeral, with the riverbed remaining dry throughout most of the year and experiencing tidal flow only during storm events. Bed-material samples were collected from selected reaches, and sediment properties were evaluated. The study involved analyzing datasets on the reservoir, catchment, and sand-bed channel. Numerical models assessed hydrological and sediment transport information by considering interacting variables and predicting deposition patterns and sediment-yield estimates. The findings indicated that sufficient bed material from sub-basin 3E would be deposited into the reservoir, resulting in delta formation approximately 5 km downstream of the tail waters at minimum dam operating level. The mass cumulative sediment inflow from 3E into the reservoir was estimated as between 14 and 26.3 metric tons per annum, representing reservoir loss and useful life under 50 years.
MODCEL-MHUS: a comprehensive multilayer hydrodynamic unified simulation for stormwater, sanitary sewer systems, and urban surface
Authors: de Oliveira Antonio Krishnamurti Beleño , Magalhães Paulo Canedo de , Rezende Osvaldo Moura , Sousa Matheus Martins de , Marques Rodrigo Hoerner Morais , Gomes Miguez Marcelo
Published: July 2024

Numerous countries and regions have embraced implementing a separate sewer system, segregating sanitary and storm sewers into distinct systems. However, the functionality of these systems often needs to improve due to irregular interconnections, resulting in a mixed and malfunctioning system. Sewage collection is crucial for residential sanitation, but untreated collection significantly contributes to environmental degradation. Analyzing the simultaneous operation of both systems becomes vital for effective management. Using mathematical tools for precise and unified diagnosis and prognosis becomes imperative. However, municipal professionals and companies need more tools specifically designed to evaluate these systems in a unified way, mapping all the hydraulic connections observed in practice. This study proposes a unified simulation method for stormwater and sanitary sewer urban systems, addressing real-world scenarios and potential interferences. The primary goal is to develop a simulation method for both systems, considering system interconnections and urban layouts, involving hydrodynamic and water quality simulations. The practical application of this method, the Multilayer Hydrodynamic Simulation Method (MODCEL-MHUS), successfully identifies issues in urban water networks and suggests solutions, making it a valuable tool for urban water management and environmental engineering professionals.
The practice of small island developing states on the consent regime for marine scientific research: developing and reframing the Law of the Sea in changing circumstances
Authors:   , Coelho Luciana Fernandes
Published: July 2024

The 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (LOSC) seeks to reconcile competing interests in marine scientific research (MSR) within areas under national jurisdiction through the consent regime. Amidst the heightened focus on the limited capacity of Small Island Developing States (SIDS) to undertake the necessary MSR to maintain their livelihoods, it has been suggested that the consent regime for MSR could offer support in enhancing the scientific and technological capabilities of SIDS. However, the framework's fitness for purpose in light of changing circumstances has been questioned. Within this context, this thesis analyzes the influence of SIDS in developing and reframing the consent regime for MSR under the LOSC. To achieve this objective, the study undertakes a stepwise process answering four research questions. It begins by defining the objective and purpose of MSR consent, followed by an examination of the State practices of 31 SIDS across the Caribbean, Pacific, Indian, and Atlantic regions regarding the MSR consent regime from 2005 to 2020. The study then identifies tools employed by SIDS to adapt the MSR consent regime to changing circumstances. Finally, it ascertains principles and concepts to restore and maintain the balance sought in the MSR consent regime under the LOSC in light of evolving circumstances. These changing circumstances include techno-scientific advances impacting MSR and developments in other areas of international law, notably related to the environment and biodiversity, postdating the adoption of the LOSC. As a point of departure, the Third World Approaches to International Law (TWAIL) provide background for the study, also serving as the motivation to scope the study to focus on SIDS. Different methods were used in each step to obtain and analyze the relevant information to respond to each research question. These include (i) documental analysis; (ii) questionnaires; and (iii) a review of international law, law of the sea, and MSR scholarship. The findings emphasize the role of the MSR consent regime in supporting the scientific and technological capabilities of SIDS. The study concludes that the consent regime remains operational, with SIDS employing diverse tools to integrate legal and techno-scientific advancements therein. Cooperation and “reasonableness” emerge as significant legal concepts to sustain the required balance within the MSR consent regime under the LOSC. This study contributes to legal scholarship by exploring the adaptability of the LOSC over time in response to State practice, as well as in light of scientific and technological advances. At the same time, it advances the integration of social science and empirical methods in legal studies. Furthermore, it enhances the TWAIL movement by exploring SIDS perspectives, an area that has not been extensively investigated within the movement.
"Eu vos digo, manas": reflexões sobre a subalternidade feminina em Novas cartas portuguesas
Authors: Matos Flores Maria da Conceição
Published: July 2024

Este texto visa refletir sobre seis histórias de mulheres vítimas de subalternidade narradas nas Novas cartas portuguesas, romance escrito pelas Três Marias – Maria Isabel Barreno, Maria Teresa Horta e Maria Velho da Costa. Partindo das Cartas portuguesas, de Mariana Alcoforado, freira que viveu em Beja no século XVII, as Três Marias constroem um romance inovador que dialoga com o da freira, porém enquanto as Cartas Portuguesas foram publicadas em França, em 1699, anonimamente, estas Novas cartas foram editadas em Portugal, em 1972, e apresentam uma autoria coletiva declarada, mas não identificada As histórias analisadas neste ensaio mostram que a subalternidade feminina se apresenta de diversas formas, que têm em comum o poder de inferiorizar a mulher e de lhe retirar a liberdade e a autoestima. Esta reflexão ancora-se em teóricos como Pierre Bourdieu (1999; 2001), Michelle Perrot (2005), Gayatri Spivak (2010) e Virginia Woolf (2014).
Cora Coralina e a modernidade humanitária de “Todas as vidas”
Authors: Vieira Júnior Paulo Antônio , Rodrigues da Silva Glauciane
Published: July 2024

Este estudo parte da fortuna crítica de Cora Coralina, que considerou traços modernos e modernistas na obra da autora, para investigar o discurso humanitário constituído no poema “Todas as vidas”, do livro Poemas dos becos de Goiás e estórias mais. A leitura leva em consideração uma tendência da literatura moderna que toma posição diante das injustiças sociais e reverte estigmas da subalternidade, revelando a má consciência do mundo. As análises notam, ainda, a convergência da poesia de Cora com a ressublimação contida em Flores do mal, de Charles Baudelaire (1985). Nossas reflexões se valem das seguintes formulações teórico-críticas: Sebástian Joachin (1999), Goiandira Ortiz de Camargo (2002; 2006), Darcy Denófrio (2006, 2017), Flávio Camargo (2018) Heloisa Marques Miguel (2006), Hugo Friedrich (1978), Antonio Candido (2011) e Gayatri Spivak (2010), dentre outros/as.
Vozes da violência: o malear do martelo
Authors: Cavaca Lopes Ribeiro Flávio
Published: July 2024

A obra o martelo, da pernambucana Adelaide Ivánova, apresenta características decoloniais que degradam o sentido literal por meio de vozes trabalhadas em um contínuo contraposto. Demonstrando a violenta opressão contra o corpo feminino, na linguagem, o martelo nos remete, com ironia calculada e reiteração sarcástica de assertivas, ao estupro, à homofobia e à violência contra a mulher em diversos âmbitos, com quebras, “marteladas”, que rompem a lógica sintagmática, transigindo a ordem. A voz de quem esconde um martelo sob o travesseiro envereda o leitor para a repleta perplexidade, com animalizações, teor desumanizante, denunciador, que se em vezes nos leva a visualizar o sangue, a agressividade, a dor da mulher, de súbito também nos desvela a insurgência feminil ao medo e enuncia sem recalques os próprios desejos.
MOLDURA LACÔNICA:
Authors: Tavares da Silveira Silva Cleyton
Published: July 2024

Este artigo procura tecer uma introdução ao estudo da Paisagem Religiosa espartana, buscando observar na documentação, indícios da produção da paisagem enquanto produto cultural complexo, composta de uma trama visual, elaborada por uma rede de templos e santuários, muralha espiritual que protegera a cidade durante séculos. Pretende-se demonstrar a potencialidade da análise paisagística no caso do estudo das comunidades políticas helênicas, as póleis, principalmente em sua valência física; como também, ampliar os saberes a respeito de Esparta e espartanos, para além daqueles mais comuns, ligadas ao militarismo, à guerra e afins.
Zé do Caixão
Authors: Kaizer Felicíssimo Débora
Published: July 2024

Este trabalho tem como objetivo analisar o tema da desumanização da mulher nos filmes “À meia-noite levarei sua alma (1964)” e “Esta noite encarnarei no teu cadáver (1967)” ambos dirigidos pelo cineasta José Mojica Marins. Para isso, o artigo inicialmente foca na construção histórica do corpo e do gênero, a fim de introduzir um debate sobre os papéis de gênero.  Em seguida, é feita a análise dos filmes, contextualizando-os historicamente e abordando como eles incorporam ideias da cultura e do imaginário brasileiro para tratar da violência contra a mulher no enredo.
Agressividade tributária em cenário de crise econômica e dificuldade financeira: uma análise em empresas listadas na B3
Authors: Ferreira Cássia de Oliveira , Carvalho Laiz de Fátima , Carvalho Otávio Araújo de , Cunha Jacqueline Veneroso Alves da
Published: July 2024

Objetivo: O objetivo deste estudo foi verificar a relação entre os cenários de crise econômica, dificuldade financeira e a agressividade tributária em empresas listadas na B3.
Metodologia: Este estudo, de natureza descritiva e documental, adotou uma abordagem quantitativa, com uma amostra composta por 326 empresas. A análise dos dados foi realizada por meio da estatística descritiva e análise de regressão com dados em painel.
Resultados: Os resultados encontrados apontam que o ambiente de crise não favorece a adoção de estratégias de agressividade tributária pelas empresas da amostra, contradizendo ao evidenciado pela literatura, de que existe um maior esforço para reduzir a tributação em períodos de crise. Entretanto, identificou-se que empresas em dificuldade financeira tendem a adotar estratégias de agressividade tributária, buscando reduzir seus encargos fiscais.
Contribuições do Estudo: Este estudo visa enriquecer o debate sobre agressividade tributária em empresas brasileiras durante crises econômicas, evidenciando divergências em relação a pesquisas anteriores. Além disso, busca ampliar o conhecimento na área tributária, fomentando a compreensão do perfil de agressividade tributária em cenários de crise e dificuldade financeira.
Memória, discurso e universo acadêmico
Authors: Pepe Ferreira Clarissa , Silva Eliezer Pires da
Published: July 2024

This article analyzes the situation, aiming to inaugurate reflections on the following questions: under what vital conditions is knowledge produced in the space-time of neoliberal universities; whether there is gender inequality in these conditions; how it is felt and experienced by bodies that accumulate multiple exclusions; what socio-epistemological consequences this entails; and how to resist and act to reverse this situation. The method used is to review bibliographic and information sources. As a result, the article makes the first movement of articulation and systematization of statements. They are precariousness, acceleration, suffering, gender blindness, substantive (in)equality, epistemic violence, feminist epistemology, social memory and French discourse analysis. In a detailed and sustained manner, the conclusion presents the guidelines for carrying out future empirical studies.
A Rapid, Sensitive, and High-throughput Method for the Simultaneous Determination of Antihypertensive Drug Combinations in Dog Plasma by UHPLC-MS/MS: The Assessment of Predicable Bioequivalence of In-vitro Dissolution Condition
Authors: Wang Yuanjian , Wang Ruixun , Wang Huijia , Liu Ran , Bi Kaishun , Li Qing
Published: July 2024

Background:

Essential hypertension is a common clinical disease and a risk factor for cardiovascular
and cerebrovascular diseases. Olmesartan medoxomil, amlodipine, and hydrochlorothiazide are commonly
used antihypertensive drugs. The aim of this study was to establish a robust UPLC-MS/MS method for the simultaneous
determination of olmesartan medoxomil, amlodipine, and hydrochlorothiazide in dog plasma. At
the same time, the in vivo and in vitro release studies were conducted, and a preliminary in vitro-in vivo correlation
(IVIVC) evaluation was performed.

Methods:

The bioequivalence experiment was conducted with a double-crossed design. Three major components
were extracted and analyzed by UHPLC-MS/MS. With the MRM scan, olmesartan and amlodipine were
quantified by fragment conversion (m/z 447.10→190.10) and (m/z 408.95→294.00) under positive ESI mode,
while hydrochlorothiazide was quantified with fragment conversion (m/z 295.90→268.90) under negative ESI
mode. The in vitro release studies were performed using a USP paddle, and the dissolution medium was chosen
from pH 6.0 to pH 6.8 according to the BCS classification of compounds. The IVIVC was calculated using
the Wagner-Nelson equation.

Results:

The linear ranges of olmesartan, amlodipine, and hydrochlorothiazide in the plasma were 5.0-2500,
0.1-50, and 3.0-1500 ng/mL, respectively. All accuracies were within 3.8% of the target values, and the findings
revealed that intra-day and inter-day accuracies were less than 12.1%. Moreover, the recoveries exceeded
88.3%, the matrix effect tests were positive, and the stability tests were positive. With the establishment of correlation,
the distinguishable dissolution condition (pH 6.8) was selected as the predictable condition.

Conclusion:

The established method was suitable for the preclinical pharmacokinetic study of tripartite drugs
with strong specificity and high sensitivity. Through the evaluation of IVIVC, the connection between in vivo
and in vitro drug testing was initially established.
Low Expression of SCN4B Predicts Poor Prognosis in Non-small Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Li Xia , Chen Weiwei , Jiang Shu , Zhang Lianlian , Huang Hua , Ji Yanan , Ni Qinggan , Ling Chunhua
Published: July 2024

Background:

Sodium voltage-gated channel beta subunit 4 (SCN4B) plays a suppressive role in various tumors. However, the role of SCN4B in non-small cell lung cancer
(NSCLC) is not yet clear. This study aims to investigate the expression of SCN4B in NSCLC
patients and its correlation with prognosis.

Methods:

Firstly, the expression of SCN4B in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) was analyzed using The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database. Then, differential expression genes (DEGs) were identified using R software. Next, DEG enrichment pathways were analyzed using the R package clusterPro-filer. Protein-protein interaction networks were revealed through STRING analysis. A heatmap showed significant differential expression of SCN4B. Further analysis included examining SCN4B expression in a pan-cancer context and its correlation with 24 types of immune cells in NSCLC. Subsequently, quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR), Western Blot, immunohistochemistry, and clinical data were used to validate SCN4B expression and prognostic value in NSCLC patients.

Results:

SCN4B mRNA expression in non-small cell lung cancer tissues was significantly lower than in adjacent normal tissues (p < 0.001). Clinical correlation analysis confirmed its association with clinical pathology. Gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) and tumor immune-related analyses indicated that SCN4B is involved in NSCLC-related Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathways and participates in immune infiltration. qRT-PCR, Western Blot, and immunohistochemistry also con-firmed that SCN4B is downregulated in NSCLC patients and is associated with poor prognosis.

Conclusion:

SCN4B is downregulated in tumor tissues of NSCLC patients and is associated with a poor prognosis.
The Role of Epigenetic Mechanisms in the Treatment of GI Cancers
Authors: Shahini Ali , Imani Amirhossein , Reyhani Amirali , Khalili-Tanha Ghazaleh , Ghorbani Elnaz , Fiuji Hamid , Saeed Al-Hayawi Ibrahim , Khazaei Majid , Hassanian Seyed Mahdi , Ferns Gordon A. , Nazari Elham , Avan Amir
Published: July 2024

Epigenetic mechanisms have been shown to play a critical role in the development and
progression of gastrointestinal [GI] cancers. These mechanisms involve modifications to DNA
and histones that can alter gene expression patterns and may contribute to the initiation and progression
of cancers. In recent years, epigenetic therapies have emerged as a promising approach to
treating GI cancers. These therapies target specific epigenetic modifications, such as DNA methylation
and histone acetylation, to restore normal gene expression patterns and inhibit cancer cell
growth. Several epigenetic drugs have been approved for the treatment of GI cancers. Moreover,
the use of epigenetic therapies in combination with other treatments, such as chemotherapeutic
agents, is being studied to improve treatment outcomes.
We have provided an overview of the role of epigenetic mechanisms in GI cancer treatment aimed
to focus on recent evidence of the use of epigenetic agents in clinical and preclinical GI cancer
studies, including gastric, esophageal, hepatic, pancreatic, and colorectal cancers. Overall, the role
of epigenetic mechanisms in GI cancer treatments is an active area of research with the potential
to improve patients' treatment outcomes and advance cancer treatment strategies.
The Search for Drugs Derived from Natural Products for Toxoplasma gondii Infection Treatment in the Last 20 Years - A Systematic Review
Authors: Marques-Santos Fabielle , Faria Robson Xavier , Amendoeira Maria Regina Reis
Published: July 2024

Introduction:

Toxoplasmosis is a worldwide distributed zoonosis caused by Toxo-plasma gondii (T. gondii), an obligate intracellular protozoan. The infection in immunocompetent hosts usually progresses with mild or no symptoms. However, in immunocompromised individu-als, this disease can cause severe or fatal symptoms.

Method:

Sulfadiazine and pyrimethamine are two drugs used as standard therapies for human toxoplasmosis. Although they do not cause chronic infection, they may cause hematological tox-icity, hypersensitivity, intolerance, teratogenic effects, gastrointestinal disorders, and bone mar-row suppression.

Results:

The limited effect, significant toxicity, and emerging resistance to current drugs availa-ble to treat T. gondii infections require investigating other effective, nontoxic, and well-tolerated alternatives. Medicinal plants are, traditionally, the most promising sources used to treat infec-tious diseases.

Conclusion:

This review provides data on new therapeutic and prophylactic methods for T. gondii infection based on the use of extracts and/or compounds derived from natural products, which have been reported to be useful as alternative treatment options in the last 20 years.
When It Rains It Pours...: Wernicke Encephalopathy with Sudden
Blindness after Bariatric Surgery in a Patient with Congenital Deafness
Authors: Lopes Mariarita , Oteri Vittorio , Sceusa Giulia , Federica Spitali , Salvatore Volpe , Gullo Damiano
Published: July 2024

Background::

Malabsorption syndromes are known chronic complications of bariatric
surgery. Therefore, it is recommended to take oral supplementation with multivitamins.
Wernicke's encephalopathy represents an acute neuropsychiatric syndrome associated with
alcoholism or severe malnutrition; sporadic cases of this potential complication related to bariatric
surgery are described in the literature. We present a case of Wernicke's encephalopathy due
to severe vitamin B1 deficiency after bariatric surgery.

Case Report::

A 31-year-old woman with deaf-mutism from the age of 3 years old, operated 3
months before with a mini-gastric bypass for severe obesity, was transferred to our unit after
accessing the emergency room. In the immediate medical history, there was the sudden and rapid
decline in vision, leading to complete loss of vision, marked asthenia, and paresthesia in the
four limbs. Considering the previous bariatric surgery, the diagnosis of non-alcoholic Wernicke's
syndrome was suspected, for which IV therapy with Vitamin B1 was started at a dosage
of 5 vials of 200 mg in 100 cc of saline solution (three times a day for the first 72 hours,
subsequently 1 once/day). After 12 hours, there was an improvement in visual acuity, and the
symptoms completely resolved within 48 hours. She was discharged with complete resolution of
all symptoms after 1 month.

Conclusion::

Initial vision loss without confusion or encephalopathy is one atypical presentation
of Wernicke syndrome. Clinical suspicion must be high in case of alcoholism or post-bariatric
surgery. Early recognition of atypical symptoms, including vision loss, and timely administration
of therapy improves the prognosis of this potentially reversible but time-dependent neurological
emergency.
ANTIVIRAL ACTIVITY OF FABACEAE AND ASTERACEAE FLAVONOID COMPOUNDS AGAINST SARS-CoV-2 ON SPIKE PROTEIN, MAIN PROTEASE (Mpro) AND RNA DEPENDENT RNA POLYMERASE (RdRp) RECEPTORS WITH IN SILICO METHOD
Authors: Lekal Tresia ,   Faculty Of Pharmacy, University Of Surabaya, Surabaya, Indonesia, Kesuma Dini , Azminah Azminah ,   Faculty Of Pharmacy, University Of Surabaya, Surabaya, Indonesia,   Faculty Of Pharmacy, University Of Surabaya, Surabaya, Indonesia
Published: July 2024

This study was conducted to analyze the antiviral activity of flavonoid compounds of Fabaceae (Clitoria ternatea, Caesalpinia sappan, Leucaena leucocephala, Indigofera tinctoria) and Asteraceae (Eclipta prostrata, Artemisia vulgaris, Blumea balsamifera, Chromolaena odorata) against SARS-CoV-2 on spike protein, Mpro and RdRp receptors by molecular docking method in silico. The results of molecular docking with AutoDock Vina showed that the flavonoid compounds semiglabrin (-7,5 kcal/mol) and pseudosemiglabrin (-7,0 kcal/mol) has binding energy better than native ligand NAG (-4,9 kcal/mol) and ceftriaxone (-6,8 kcal/mol) as a standard drug against the spike protein receptor. Flavonoid compounds juglanin (-8,5 kcal/mol) and glabratephrin (-8,5 kcal/mol) has binding energy close to the native ligand 4WI/nirmatrelvir (-8,7 kcal/mol) against Mpro receptor. Flavonoid juglanin (-9,5 kcal/mol) has binding energy better than native ligan 1RP/favipiravir (-8,3 kcal/mol) and remdesivir (-8,7 kcal/mol) as a standard drug, while flavonoid apigetrin (-8,7 kcal/mol) has binding energy better than native ligand and has the same binding energy with remdesivir as a standard drug against RdRp receptor.
Efektivitas Edible Coating Spray Gel Lidah Buaya (Aloe vera) dan Daun Sirih (Piper betle) Sebagai Sanitizer Pangan
Authors: Azmi Afif Fadhil ,   Prodi Farmasi, Fakultas Kedokteran, Universitas Tanjungpura, Kota Pontianak, Kalimantan Barat, Indonesia, Kamil Insan , Fahiratunnisa Namira Alifah , Pramita Julianti , Maulidia Yuninta , Sari Rafika ,   Prodi Farmasi, Fakultas Kedokteran, Universitas Tanjungpura, Kota Pontianak, Kalimantan Barat, Indonesia,   Prodi Kedokteran, Fakultas Kedokteran, Universitas Tanjungpura, Kota Pontianak, Kalimantan Barat, Indonesia,   Prodi Farmasi, Fakultas Kedokteran, Universitas Tanjungpura, Kota Pontianak, Kalimantan Barat, Indonesia,   Prodi Farmasi, Fakultas Kedokteran, Universitas Tanjungpura, Kota Pontianak, Kalimantan Barat, Indonesia,   Prodi Farmasi, Fakultas Kedokteran, Universitas Tanjungpura, Kota Pontianak, Kalimantan Barat, Indonesia
Published: July 2024

Betel leaf and aloe vera have antibacterial properties as evidenced by the presence of active substances and other organic compounds. The antibacterial activity of both plants was influenced by the presence of secondary metabolites such as glucomannan and phenol in aloe vera and phenol, saponin and flavonoid in betel leaf. This study was conducted to determine the mechanism and activity of the combination of aloe vera gel and betel leaf in the form of edible coating spray as a food sanitizer. The method used is a true experimental design in vitro with a completely randomized design. Then, to test the performance of antibacterial activity, the paper disc diffusion method was used against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli bacteria. The results showed that there was an inhibitory activity of the preparation against the two test bacteria. The largest inhibition zone was owned by the preparation with a concentration of 100% with a very strong inhibition category against Escherichia coli and a strong category for Staphylococcus aureus. One way ANOVA test followed by Post Hoc Test showed a significant number of p <0.05 which represented a significant difference in fruit rot against the control treatment with a concentration of 100%, while against the control treatment with a concentration of 50% and a concentration of 30% there was no significant difference. Based on the results of this study, the preparation in the form of edible coating spray is effective in increasing food security during the pandemic and reducing losses for fruits and vegetables.
Pope Francis' influence and public opinion in the EU in the context of national resilience
Authors: Kostiuk Oleksander
Published: July 2024

Studying Pope Francis' influence on public opinion in European Union countries in the context of national resilience is a pressing research question. Although the Pope enjoys high moral authority among Europeans, a comprehensive analysis of his role in shaping societal positions, particularly on security and defense issues, is lacking. Investigating this problem enables a deeper understanding of the religious factor's role in strengthening European unity, countering destructive influences. The research materials include Pope Francis' public speeches and statements, primarily those circulated through mass media and social networks, as well as sociological survey results on the EU public's perception of the pontiff's position on crucial socio-political issues. Content analysis methods are used to examine the content and tone of the Pope's messages, while comparative analysis of sociological research data identifies correlations between the Pope's rhetoric and shifts in public sentiment regarding national resilience. The results show that despite Pope Francis' high popularity in EU countries, where the vast majority of the population approves of the pontiff, his public statements have a limited and short-lived impact on public opinion. Empirical evidence indicates that most Europeans do not consider the Pope a decisive factor in shaping their views on various socio-political problems, such as nuclear disarmament, migration, pandemics, or basic income. The Pope's pacifist stance on war, a topic of discussion in the context of the Russian-Ukrainian war, is not a determining factor that risks critically undermining the personnel and motivation of EU countries' armed forces. The population's willingness to defend their homeland militarily varies significantly among EU states and is influenced by a complex interplay of historical, geopolitical, and socio-cultural factors that outweigh the pontiff's religious rhetoric. In conclusion, while papal pacifism somewhat resonates with the anti-war sentiments of some Europeans, it does not pose major challenges to ensuring the defense capabilities and resilience of EU countries. Pope Francis' high moral authority does not automatically translate into a dominant influence on public opinion and societal attitudes regarding national security in European Union member states.
Internet generation in religious cyberspace: worldview challenges of the digital age
Authors: Lomachinska Iryna , Hryshyna Yulia
Published: July 2024

The article is devoted to the analysis of the peculiarities in the perception of reli-gious cyberspace by the Ukrainian Internet generation. The relevance and novelty of the research consists in determining the specifics of the religious cyberspace func-tioning in the context of the spiritual and intellectual needs of the Internet generation, clarifying the essence of worldview challenges that the globalized digital age poses to young people in the religious cyberspace. The peculiarities of the religious cyber-space formation in the Ukrainian and world context are analyzed. It is noted that functioning of the virtual religious space can be considered through several key as-pects: online worship, virtual prayers, educational programs of spiritual develop-ment, platforms for discussing religious topics and sharing experiences in social networks, electronic libraries, digital missionary programs, virtual pilgrimage, the use of various mobile applications for prayer practices, etc. The peculiarities of the digi-tal religion phenomenon are defined as a dynamic process in which religious groups and individuals adopt digital technologies and adapt to them depending on their values and capabilities. The essential features of the Internet generation, the specif-ics of its intellectual and spiritual requests, and self-presentation in religious cyber-space are analyzed. The challenges and dangers produced by religious cyberspace in the modern globalized era are characterized. The Conclusions state that religious cyberspace provides the Internet generation with unique opportunities for spiritual growth, learning, communication and active participation in religious life, however, the safe use of religious cyberspace is possible through digital culture and continu-ous self-education. Among the measures of counter social manipulations and reli-gious extremism in the online space are educational programs aimed at raising awareness of different religions and culture, which promotes tolerance and mutual understanding, development of media culture and critical thinking among users of religious cyberspace, active use of social media to spread positive and truthful reli-gious content, creation of mechanisms for checking facts and exposing disinfor-mation in the religious sphere.
Nutritional management of muscle mass loss in patients with Post-COVID-19 Syndrome: a scoping review
Authors: Severino Araujo Hana Gabriela , Ferreira Nunes Bárbara Thiffani , Cardoso Fernandes Toffolo Mayla , Adrielle Lima Vieira Renata , Maurício Silvia Fernandes
Published: July 2024

Post-Covid-19 Syndrome (PCS) is a condition that causes persistent symptoms and impacts nutritional status such as loss of muscle mass. The objective of this study was to review and map scientific evidence on nutritional management in the loss of muscle mass in patients with PCS. The scoping review protocol was prepared following the PRISMA-ScR guidelines. Review articles not written in English or those that included only hospitalized patients and pertained to conditions other than PCS were excluded. Data extraction followed the methodology outlined by the Cochrane Review Group. Of the 81 articles initially identified, only five met the inclusion criteria. The selected studies emphasized the importance of recovering muscle mass, higher protein and caloric intake, and physical strength exercises. Consequently, nutritional interventions aimed at mitigating muscle mass loss should prioritize strategies that increase caloric and protein consumption.
Effective Photogeneration of Singlet Oxygen and High Photocatalytic and Antibacterial Activities of Porous Mn-Doped ZnO-ZrO2 Nanocomposites
Authors: Evstropiev Sergey , Shelemanov Andrey , Bagrov Igor , Karavaeva Anna , Portnova Kseniya , Nikonorov Nikolay
Published: July 2024

Disperse porous Mn-doped ZnO-ZrO2 nanocomposites were prepared using the facile polymer-salt method. The effect of Mn content on the crystal structure, composite morphologies, their ability to photogenate the singlet oxygen, luminescence properties, and bactericidal activities were studied. The crystal structure and morphology of these materials were investigated using XRD and SEM analysis. It was found that obtained nanocomposites consist of small (~9 nm) hexagonal ZnO and fine ZrO2 crystals and the embedding of Mn ions expands the crystal cells of ZnO crystals. Photoluminescence spectra indicate the presence of different structural defects (interstitial Zn ions and oxygen vacancies in ZnO and oxygen vacancies in ZrO2 crystals). Mn-doped ZnO-ZrO2 nanocomposites can photogenerate singlet oxygen under visible (λ = 405 nm) irradiation. The increased power density of the exciting blue (λ = 405 nm) light significantly enhances the singlet oxygen photogeneration by prepared composites. The dependence of the intensity of singlet oxygen photogeneration by composites on the power density of exciting radiation (at its variation in the range 0.8 ÷ 1.6 W/cm2) is close to linear. Mn-doped ZnO-ZrO2 composites demonstrate superior antibacterial activity against the gram-positive bacteria Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 209P. It was found that highly dispersed porous Mn-doped ZnO-ZrO2 nanocomposites are promising for practical environmental and medical applications.
Use of Web-Based Surveys to Collect Long-Term Pediatric Outcomes in Patients With Twin-Twin Transfusion Syndrome Treated With Fetoscopic Laser Photocoagulation: Observational Study
Authors: Bergh Eric , Rennie Kimberly , Espinoza Jimmy , Johnson Anthony , Papanna Ramesha
Published: July 2024

Background

In the United States, patients with monochorionic diamniotic twins who undergo in utero fetoscopic laser photocoagulation (FLP) for twin-twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS) may travel great distances for care. After delivery, many parents cannot return to study sites for formal pediatric evaluation due to geographic location and cost.

Objective

The aim of this study was to collect long-term pediatric outcomes in patients who underwent FLP for TTTS.

Methods

We assessed the feasibility of using a web-based survey designed in REDCap (Research Electronic Data Capture; Vanderbilt University) to collect parent-reported outcomes in children treated for TTTS at a single center during 2011‐2019. Patients with ≥1 neonatal survivor were invited via email to complete 5 possible questionnaires: the child status questionnaire (CSQ); fetal center questionnaire (FCQ); Ages & Stages Questionnaires, Third Edition (ASQ-3); Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers, Revised With Follow-Up (M-CHAT-R/F); and thank you questionnaire (TYQ). The R programming language (R Foundation for Statistical Computing) was used to automate survey distribution, scoring, and creation of customized reports. The survey was performed in 2019 and repeated after 12 months in the same study population in 2020.

Results

A total of 389 patients in 26 different states and 2 international locations had an email address on file and received an invitation in 2019 to complete the survey (median pediatric age 48.9, IQR 1.0‐93.6 months). Among surveyed mothers in 2019, the overall response rate was 37.3% (145/389), and the questionnaire completion rate was 98% (145/148), 87.8% (130/148), 71.1% (81/100), 86.4% (19/22), and 74.3% (110/148) for the CSQ, FCQ, ASQ-3, M-CHAT-R/F, and TYQ, respectively. In 2020, the overall response rate was 57.8% (56/97), and the questionnaire completion rate was 96.4% (54/56), 91.1% (51/56), 86.1% (31/36), 91.7% (11/12), and 80.4% (45/56) for the CSQ, FCQ, ASQ-3, M-CHAT-R/F, and TYQ, respectively.

Conclusions

This is the first study to use both REDCap and computer automation to aid in the dissemination, collection, and reporting of surveys to collect long-term pediatric outcomes in the field of fetal medicine.
Income Inequality as a Barrier to Economic Growth
Authors: Angelov Ivaylo
Published: July 2024

This paper examines the relationship between income inequality and economic growth. Drawing on existing literature and empirical data, we analyze the effects of income inequality on the US GDP using statistical methods such as linear modeling. Our results show that high levels of income inequality are a barrier to sustained economic growth, as the concentration of wealth in a few individuals limits overall consumer spending and investment. Additionally, we find that income inequality exacerbates social and political instability, leading to further negative consequences for economic growth. We conclude that addressing income inequality through policy interventions such as progressive taxation and redistribution is essential for promoting long-term economic prosperity and equity in the United States. Our research contributes to the ongoing discourse on income inequality and its implications for economic growth and highlights the need for evidence-based policy solutions to address this pressing issue.