bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Clinical importance of LEDGF/p75 in colorectal cancer prognosis
Authors: Liedtke Victoria , Wartmann Thomas , Shi Wenjie , Kahlert Ulf D. 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Colorectal cancer ranks third in men and second in women, with 153,020 new cases and 52,550 deaths in 2023. While predominantly affecting those over 65 years, 13% occur in individuals under 50 years. Biomarker analysis, including APC, BRAF, KRAS, and TP53, aids early detection, but rising incidence due to lifestyle changes projects 2.2 million new cases by 2030. Early screening is crucial for optimizing treatment outcomes and disease monitoring in colorectal cancer, as it enables the identification and intervention of malignancy at an early stage, thereby improving survival rates and reducing the need for invasive procedures - this process is significantly augmented by the use of early biomarkers.
Methods
This study analyzed the expression of the stress oncoprotein LEDGF/p75 and the ubiquitin E2 conjugating enzyme UBC13 in 15 colorectal cancer tissue samples and adjacent non-tumor tissues, obtained from the same patients. Western blot analysis was used, and results were further validated using mRNA expression data from 521 patients in the TCGA database.
Results
LEDGF/p75 expression was significantly elevated in nearly all tumor tissue samples compared to adjacent tissue (11 / 15, 73.3 %). Additionally, enzyme UBC13, a key regulator in the degradation of signaling molecules, was also increased in most tumor tissue samples (9 / 15, 60.0 %). Co-overexpression of LEDGF/p75 and UBC13 was evident in 6 / 6 patients.
Conclusion
This study confirms the upregulation of LEDGF/p75 in colorectal cancer and shows its correlation with KRAS and MSH2 mutations. The role of LEDGF/p75 in genomic instability and interactions with DNA repair proteins may contribute to drug resistance and increased tumor aggressiveness. LEDGF/p75’s potential as a prognostic biomarker independent of lymph node involvement or CEA levels highlights its potential in personalized therapy and warrants further research into its therapeutic targeting.
Culturally appropriate care for indigenous people with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM)- a scoping review
Authors: Sampath Kesava Kovanur , Yan Ann-Rong , Brownie Sharon 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Indigenous populations are disproportionately affected by type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and associated complications. However, the lack of cultural integration with the current management approach does not suit indigenous communities. Therefore, the aim of this scoping review is to map the existing literature related to culturally appropriate care and to establish the key characteristics of a culturally appropriate care provided to indigenous communities with T2D. Electronic databases such as PubMed, CINAHL, Science Direct and Cochrane Library were searched from inception to May 2024. Identified records from database literature searches were imported into Covidence®. Two independent reviewers screened and extracted the data. The research team collectively created a data charting table/form to standardize data collection that included PICO elements and PROGRESS-Plus factors for equity lens. A narrative synthesis was used to summarize the evidence. Seven studies met our eligibility criteria and were included in this scoping review. Overall, there is clear evidence that a culturally appropriate care results in better physiological outcomes and higher rates of adherence and engagement with a treatment plan and disease management processes. However, future studies need to gather and report on other PROGRESS factors that can cause inequity such as Religion, Education, Socioeconomic status of participants.
Emerging countries' counter-currency cycles in the face of crises and dominant currencies
Authors: Spring-Ragain Hugo 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

This article examines how emerging economies use countercyclical monetary policies to manage economic crises and fluctuations in dominant currencies, such as the US dollar and the euro. Global economic cycles are marked by phases of expansion and recession, often exacerbated by major financial crises. These crises, such as those of 1997, 2008 and the disruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, have a particular impact on emerging economies due to their heightened vulnerability to foreign capital flows and exports.
Counter-cyclical monetary policies, including interest rate adjustments, foreign exchange interventions and capital controls, are essential to stabilize these economies. These measures aim to mitigate the effects of economic shocks, maintain price stability and promote sustainable growth.
This article presents a theoretical analysis of economic cycles and financial crises, highlighting the role of dominant currencies in global economic stability. Currencies such as the dollar and the euro strongly influence emerging economies, notably through exchange rate variations and international capital movements.
Analysis of the monetary strategies of emerging economies, through case studies of Brazil, India and Nigeria, reveals how these countries use tools such as interest rates, foreign exchange interventions and capital controls to manage the impacts of crises and fluctuations in dominant currencies. The article also highlights the challenges and limitations faced by these countries, including structural and institutional constraints and the reactions of international financial markets.
Finally, an econometric analysis using a Vector AutoRegression (VAR) model illustrates the impact of monetary policies on key economic variables, such as GDP, interest rates, inflation and exchange rates. The results show that emerging economies, although sensitive to external shocks, can adjust their policies to stabilize economic growth in the medium and long term.
Performance studies of Fine-tuned Poly Ether Sulphone Composite Membranes using Azadirachta indica for Antifouling Properties in Industrial wastewater treatment
Authors: Sathya U. , Janapriya S. , Kumar V. Sathees 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

An antifouling polyether sulphone (PES) microfiltration membrane was developed by physical blending of TiO2 nanoparticle for membrane bioreactor (MBR) treating tannery wastewater. Incorporation of anti-fouling materials into the polymer by physical blending and composite PES membranes were synthesized using TiO2 nanoparticle and the membranes were made by Non-Induced Phase Inversion Method (NIPS). The membrane morphology was studied using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and the stability of the membranes was measured by calculating the tensile strength. From the results of contact angle measurements, the hydrophilicity of the membranes was found to increase with the PES/ 4% TiO2. From the fouling rate analysis, TiO2 nanoparticle incorporated membrane PES/ TiO2 has a higher antibiofouling effect. The antimicrobial properties of TiO2 guaranteed an anti-bio-fouling effect thus by preventing the microbial growth in the membrane. The percentage of COD removal was found to be 89% and the complete removal of suspended solids has been observed.
The role of COX-2 in Knee osteoarthritis: a comprehensive analysis of cytokines, inflammation, and signaling pathways
Authors: Zhou You , Liang Chaoxin 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Knee osteoarthritis (KOA)of the knee is a prevalent joint disorder closely associated with multiple factors, among which cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) plays a pivotal role in inflammatory responses and cytokine release. This review aims to elucidate the role of COX-2 in the pathogenesis of knee osteoarthritis, analyze its interplay with key cytokines, and examine the signaling pathways involved in this process. By employing immunohistochemical techniques, we intend to gain a deeper understanding of the expression patterns of COX-2 and its functions within the inflammatory microenvironment, thereby providing new insights for the treatment of knee osteoarthritis.
An engineered small ligand activates NK cells and triggers their cytolytic activity
Authors: Justino Gonçalo , Pinheiro Pedro , Marques M. Matilde , Miranda Joana 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Natural killer (NK) cells are crucial to the immune system, playing a key role in cancer prevention by targeting and lysing tumour cells. Their cytotoxicity is mediated through direct and indirect mechanisms, including the release of cytokines and cytolytic enzymes. NK cells can be activated by specific receptors, including NKp30, which recognize ligands on tumour cells. While previous immunotherapies, such as chimeric antigen receptor NK (CAR-NK) cells and antibody-based therapies, have aimed to leverage the tumour-fighting ability of NK cells, they encounter challenges like high costs, low response rates, and tumour heterogeneity. Small-molecule agents have been proposed as a more cost-effective and accessible alternative to stimulate NK cell activity. This study addresses the challenge of identifying a small-molecule ligand that can specifically engage NKp30 to trigger NK-mediated anti-tumour activity. Here, we show that NK815A activates NK cells through NKp30, enhancing cytokine production and promoting degranulation, which lead to increased cytotoxic activity against target cells. Traditionally, NK cell activation has relied on complex and costly bi- and tri-specific engagers or CAR-NK therapies. NK815A provides a simpler, more cost-effective means of activating NK cells, offering a promising alternative to current immunotherapies. These findings suggest that small-molecule ligands offer a viable and scalable strategy for inducing NK cell-mediated cytotoxicity in cancer therapy, enhancing the availability of NK cell-based immunotherapies, and potentially improving prognosis for cancers that respond poorly to conventional treatments.
Study of the influence of Ca/Zn thermal stabilizer concentration on the properties of PVC polymer
Authors: bendjaouahdou Chaouki 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

The objective of this work is to investigate the effects of the concentration of a thermal stabilizer, i.e, metal complex: Ca/Zn, on the properties of p ol yvi nyl chlor ide ( P V C) po l yme r u s ed i n t he fab r i ca tio n o f el ec tr i ca l cab l e s he at h. T he r e s u l t e d P V C resin is prepared by dry blending followed by melt extrusion. The main results showed a decrease the tensile strength and shore A hardness when the amount of the used thermal stabilizer (Ca/Zn) increases before and after thermal ageing. Furthermore, the strain at the break decreases when the amount of the thermal stabilizer (Ca/Zn) increases before thermal ageing, and, is maximal for 9 wt % of thermal stabilizer, after thermal ageing. The thermal stability (dehydrochlorination or Beilstein test) increases as a function of the thermal stabilizer c o ncentration.
Tofacitinib in the treatment of ulceral colitis: real-world clinical practice and prospects
Authors: Trukhan D. I. 
Published: October 2024

Ulcerative colitis is an immune-inflammatory disease characterized by ulcerative-destructive processes in the colon mucosa. Cytokines, proteins secreted by activated immune cells that affect the activity, differentiation, or proliferation of other cells, play a key role in pathogenesis. Improving the effectiveness of drug therapy for ulcerative colitis is currently associated with the addition of genetically engineered biological drugs (GEBD) and targeted immunosuppressants, Janus kinase inhibitors (tofacitinib), to traditional therapy. Compared with GEBD, tofacitinib has a number of advantages, including its oral administration, rapid onset of action, rapid elimination, and lack of immunogenicity. Tofacitinib was approved by the FDA in 2012 for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis and in 2017 for the treatment of psoriatic arthritis, and in May 2018 for the treatment of ulcerative colitis. Currently, tofacitinib occupies an important place in the Federal Clinical Guidelines for Ulcerative Colitis of 2024. The Pubmed and Scopus databases were searched for articles on the use of tofacitinib in ulcerative colitis published in the current decade, with an emphasis on publications of the last year and publications not included in previously published domestic reviews. The studies found confirm the effectiveness of tofacitinib in the treatment of moderate to severe ulcerative colitis in patients in various geographic regions. A number of studies have noted the pharmacoeconomic effectiveness of tofacitinib compared to GEBD. Tofacitinib is not presented in the current clinical guidelines for ulcerative colitis for children, but a number of studies indicate the prospects for its integration into pediatric protocols.
Possibilities of treating sarcopenia in liver cirrhosis with hypoammonemic agents
Authors: Ostrovskaya A. S. , Maevskaya M. V. , Loban K. M. , Zharkova M. S. , Shapka M. P. , Vasiltsova E. A. , Chvileva Yu. O. , Ivashkin V. T. 
Published: October 2024

Introduction. The use of hypoammonemic agents to treat sarcopenia in liver cirrhosis has the potential to positively affect muscle mass, strength and function, given the pathogenetic basis of sarcopenia in liver cirrhosis.Aim. To compare muscle mass, strength and function, as well as capillary blood ammonia levels in patients with decompensated liver cirrhosis in two groups with and without use of L-ornithine-L-aspartate (LOLA).Materials and methods. A prospective cohort study was conducted. The treatment group included patients with decompensated liver cirrhosis of various etiologies and hyperammonemia, who received a hypoammonemic agent (LOLA) as part of complex therapy; the comparator group included patients with liver cirrhosis, hyperammonemia and sarcopenia, who did not receive LOLA. All patients underwent measurements of muscle mass (shoulder muscle volume, skeletal muscle mass indices (SMI) measured by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry), strength (dynamometry, chair stand test) and function (short physical performance battery).Results. An analysis of clinical outcomes included 42 patients: 30 from the treatment group and 12 from the comparator group. In the treatment group, the proportion of patients with reduced muscle mass decreased from 76.67% to 73.33% (p = 0.012).The average shoulder muscle volume in the treatment group was 20.86 cm, which reached 21.35 cm (p = 0.072) at 3 months of therapy. The growth in shoulder muscle values and changes in the skeletal muscle indices for the upper limbs showed an increase in muscle mass. In the treatment group, mean muscle mass values measured by handheld dynamometry (HHD) increased from 20.53 to 22.48 kg at 3 months of therapy (p = 0.011). The increase in dynamometry scores demonstrated an increase in muscle strength during LOLA therapy. The increase in balance test scores determining muscle function was reported (p < 0.001). The capillary blood ammonia levels did not change significantly in both groups.Conclusion. The study showed a significant increase in muscle mass, strength and function in patients with liver cirrhosis and hyperammonemia, receiving LOLA as part of decompensated liver cirrhosis therapy.
Gallstone disease: current pharmacotherapy options
Authors: Minushkin O. N. , Maslovskii L. V. , Topchiy T. B. , Burdina E. G. , Kruchinina M. A. , Chugunnikova L. I. 
Published: October 2024

Introduction. Gallstone disease is one of the most common diseases of the digestive system, its prevalence rate averaged to 10–15%, which is associated with high healthcare costs for patient management such as diagnosis, cholecystectomy with over 500 000 operations performed per year in the Russian Federation, and pharmacotherapy, which is increasingly used for the combined treatment.Aim. To assess the clinical efficacy and safety of hymecromon, a domestic drug, in patients with dyspeptic form of GSD.Materials and methods. A total of 30 patients (14 men and 16 women) with gallstones in their gallbladders were observed in the study. The patients were divided into 2 groups: Group 1 included 15 patients who received hymecromone at a dose of 600 mg/ day; Group 2 included 15 patients who received hymecromone at a dose of 1200 mg/day. The course of therapy was 21 days.Results. Intensity of all GSD symptoms significantly decreased by the end of hymecromone therapy in patients of both groups. Almost all patients reported a stool normalization. The use of hymecromone at a dose of 400 mg three times a day did not result in loose stools, and in patients who had loose stools before initiation of treatment, hymecromone contributed to the normalization of its frequency and nature. Vomiting, urge to retch and loss of appetite were completely discontinued in patients who received hymecromone at a dose of 1200 mg/day, however, there were no significant differences between Groups 1 and 2 in the changes in symptoms. No adverse events or side effects were observed during therapy.Conclusion. The therapy had a beneficial effect on upper gastrointestinal symptoms and bowel dysfunction (flatulence, diarrhoea, constipation). A significant improvement in the patients’ quality of life based on GSRS questionnaire scores was noted. The domestic drug Odecromon is considered to be effective in the treatment of dyspeptic GSD.
Accounting for solidarity: trust and results as a replacement of contracts in water operators’ partnerships
Authors: Mahanta Sajib , Tutusaus Mireia , Schwartz Klaas 
Published: October 2024

ABSTRACT
Water operators' partnerships (WOPs) differ from other types of collaborations in that they are ‘solidarity-based’. By focusing on two partnerships between utilities from the Netherlands and Malawi, this article examines how accountability is addressed in solidarity-based WOPs. The article finds that the solidarity-based nature of these partnerships makes accountability between partners through contractual arrangements challenging. In such a setting, multiple and diverse lines of accountability exist. In particular, trust appears to complement more formal accountability mechanisms. At the same time, this trust relationship is only possible as long as the partnerships produce the desired operational results. The cases furthermore suggest that rather than think about optimal accountability mechanisms, ensuring accountability mechanisms that are sufficient and accepted by both partners is already an achievement.
Optimizing natural organic matter removal at the Koka water treatment plant, Ethiopia, using soil–alum composite material
Authors: Assefa Emeru , Jabasingh Anuradha , Mulugeta Eyobel , Dessalegne Meseret , Taddesse Abi M. , Bezu Zewdu 
Published: October 2024

ABSTRACT

Conventional water treatment methods often fail to remove natural organic matter (NOM), leading to the formation of harmful disinfection by-products in chlorinated water. This study aimed to develop a synergistic, local soil–aluminum sulfate (alum) composite material to enhance NOM removal from real water samples. Locally derived soil (Chalaltu) samples were collected from selected locations and subjected to thermal treatment at elevated temperatures. The thermally treated soil was then combined with alum at varying mixing percentages to create the composite material. The synthesized composite materials were thoroughly characterized using X-ray diffraction, X-ray fluorescence, scanning electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared, and Brunauer–Emmett–Teller techniques. The alum-treated soil, obtained through thermal treatment at 500 °C with a mixing ratio of 50%, a dosage of 25 mg/L, and a settling time of 25 min, exhibited impressive removal efficiencies. The composite material increased removal efficiency by 1.5 times for both UV254 absorbance (91.1%) and dissolved organic carbon (90%), while reducing the alum dose by 58% compared to the existing Koka water treatment plant process. Reducing alum usage could lead to cost savings and alleviate concerns about its association with Alzheimer's disease. This technique is essential within the context of water treatment technology.
To Explore Nasal-Brain Lymphatic System for Brain-Targeted Drug Delivery and to Treat Neurodegenerative Diseases
Authors: Sharma Rohit , Monika  , Tyagi Bobby , Gupta Disha , Mazumder Rupa , Mazumder Avijit 
Published: October 2024

Abstract:
Brain-related Neurodegenerative Disorders (NDD) are the leading cause of low life expectancy
globally. Brain-targeted drug delivery is required for treating most the NDD via bypassing
the blood-brain barrier, and hepatic first-pass metabolism. The nasal-brain drug delivery route
has the advantage of locally enhancing drug delivery to the brain, mainly through the olfactory
route rather than systemic circulation. To overcome the limitations of nasal-brain drug delivery, a
nanocarrier approach and mucoadhesive polymers are needed. Notwithstanding these constraints,
various nanotechnology techniques have been created, including polymeric micelles, liposomes,
polymeric nanoparticles, solid lipid nanoparticles, & nano-emulsions. This review aims to explore
the intranasal pathway for drug delivery through the nasal-brain lymphatic systems, considering
brain anatomy and physiology along with a drug formulation design approach.
Valproic Acid and Celecoxib Enhance the Effect of Temozolomide on Glioblastoma Cells
Authors: Pak Oleg , Kosianova Alexandra , Zaitsev Sergei , Sharma Aruna , Sharma Hari , Bryukhovetskiy Igor 
Published: October 2024

Introduction:
Glioblastoma (GB) is one of the deadliest human brain tumors. The prognosis
is unfavorable, chemotherapy with temozolomide (TMZ) may extend the survival period for a
patient. The paper aims to evaluate the survival rates among relapsing GB patients, who have been
treated with valproic acid (VPA), and to study its effect on tumor cells when combined with TMZ
and celecoxib (CXB).

Materials and Methods:
The research is based on retrospective analysis of the data from GB patients
who had been treated with VPA as a part of a complex treatment protocol and reoperated due
to a GB relapse. The experimental study involved cancer cells of C6, U87, and T98G lines. GB was
modeled on Wistar rats. The research was approved by the ethics committee. Differences in groups
were considered significant at p < 0.05

Results:
The median of overall survival among GB patients who took VPA was 22 months, and for
those who did not take VPA - 13 months. The in vitro experiment showed the half-maximal inhibitory
concentration (IC50) of TMZ for various lines of cancer cells (CCs) varying from 435.3 to
844 μM. IC50 VPA for CCs of U87MG, T98G, and С6 lines was 1510, 3900, and 3600 μM: IC50
CXB for those lines of CCs was 30.1 μM, 41.07, and 48.4 μM respectively. VPA significantly enhanced
the anti-glioma effect of TMZ on the U87 line of CCs, while CCs of C6 and T98G lines
proved to be most susceptible to the combination of CXB and TMZ. The combination of VPA with
CXB increased the anti-glioma effect of TMZ both in vitro and in vivo, also reducing the tumor size
(р < 0.05) and prolonging the survival period among experimental animals.

Conclusion:
VPA and CXB enhance the effect of TMZ on glioblastoma cells.