bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The expression of macropinocytosis-related genes in ovarian cancer and their relationships with prognosis
Authors: Shao Ying , Huang Shuai , He Zhaochun 
Published: October 2023

Abstract

Background: The mechanism of macropinocytosis has been reported in receptor sorting used by motile cells. Besides, the role of macropinocytosis was previously recognized in cancer progression. We evaluated the prognostic value of macropinocytosis gene expression in ovarian cancer (OC).
Method: Ten candidate genes were selected in the intersection between 134 macropinocytosis-related genes from Genecards database and 2925 OC prognostic genes using the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database. Heat map showed ten candidate genes expression. Gene ontology (GO) and Kyoto encyclopedia of genes and genomes (KEGG) analysis was conducted on the ten candidate genes. Protein–protein interactions were constructed using the STRING database. Hub genes were identified based on PPI networks. The key hub genes were selected both in differential expression analysis and Kaplan-Meier survival analysis. Then we identified transcription factor-gene interaction. The relationships between clinical characteristics and the key hub genes expression were performed with T test. Clinicopathologic factors correlated with overall survival (OS) conducting univariate, multivariate and LASSO Cox regression analyses. Human Protein Atlas (HPA) databases were utilized to verify the results. Furthermore, Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA) identified the potential key pathways that dominate macropinocytosis in OC.
Result:Elevated EZR, HSPG2 and SLC9A1 expression was significantly associated with OC poor survival and clinical features. Transcription factor-gene interaction and GSEA analysis reported many key regulators and signaling pathways that were enriched in OC with varying degrees of macropinocytosis-related genes expression.
Conclusions: The three macropinocytosis-related genes might be utilized as new candidate prognostic biomarkers for OC.
NUP98-BPTF promotes oncogenic transformation through PIM1 upregulation
Authors: Noura Mina , Tomita Sakura , Yasuda Takahiko , Tsuzuki Shinobu , Kiyoi Hitoshi , Hayakawa Fumihiko 
Published: October 2023

Abstract

Nucleoporin 98 (NUP98) fusion proteins are recurrently found in leukemia and are associated with unfavorable clinical outcomes. They are distributed to the nucleus and contribute to leukemogenesis by aberrant transcriptional regulation. We previously identified NUP98-BPTF (NB) fusion in patients with T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia using next-generation sequencing. The FG-repeat of NUP98 and the PHD finger and bromodomain of BPTF are retained in the fusion. Like other NUP98 fusion proteins, NB is considered to regulate genes that are essential for leukemogenesis. However, its target genes or pathways remain unknown. In the present study, we showed that NB promoted cell transformation of mouse NIH3T3 fibroblasts by upregulating the proto-oncogene Pim1, which encodes a serine/threonine kinase. NB transcriptionally regulated Pim1 expression by binding to its promoter and activated MYC and mTORC1 signaling. Knockdown of PIM1 or pharmacological inhibition of mTORC1 signaling suppressed NB-induced NIH3T3 cell transformation. Furthermore, NB enhanced the survival of human T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia cells by inactivating the pro-apoptotic protein BAD. Taken together, we demonstrated the pivotal role of NB in cell transformation and survival and identified PIM1 as a key downstream target of NB. These findings propose a promising therapeutic strategy for patients with NB fusion-positive leukemia.
Observing the prevalence of pebrine disease in silkworms and climate change: a case study in South Sulawesi, Indonesia
Authors: Nuraeni Sitti , Soma Andang Suryana , Sadapotto Andi , Mujetahid Andi , Baharuddin Baharuddin , Nur Ryza Jazid Baharuddin , Huda Nurul , Fattah Abdul , Daud M , Maulany Risma Illa 
Published: October 2023

Abstract
A tropical country like Indonesia is highly susceptible to fluctuations in daily, monthly, and decadal climate factors. The gradual or sudden accumulation of climate change can affect all living creatures, including silkworms and their pathogens. This research investigates the relationship between the prevalence of pebrine disease and climate factors, climate anomalies, and climate change. Pebrine disease data is obtained from the seed certification documents of the seed producer and verified by the seed certification agency. Climate components, including temperature, humidity, and rainfall, were acquired from satellite data records and verified at local climatology stations. The research results indicate that fluctuations in the prevalence of pebrine disease correlate with climate factors such as rainfall, temperature, and humidity. The epidemic may occur if, in the initial conditions, extended and immediate droughts alternate with high intensity and frequency of rains or if the events of El Nino precede the phenomenon of La Nina. Implications for insect conservation The more worrying impact of climate change on the high and long-lasting prevalence of pebrine disease is the extinction of silkworm strains that are not resilient to climate change. Monitoring climate factors is crucial for predicting the likelihood of pebrine disease outbreaks and implementing preventive measures.
Gut-derived metabolite 3-methylxanthine enhances cisplatin-induced apoptosis via dopamine receptor D1 in a mouse model of ovarian cancer
Authors: Mai Zhensheng , Han Yubin , Liang Dong , Mai Fei-hong , Zheng Hui-min , Li Pan , Li Yuan , Ma Cong , Chen Yunqing , Li Weifeng , Zhang Siyou , Feng Yinglin , Chen Xia , Wang Yifeng 
Published: October 2023

Abstract

Background
Platinum-based chemotherapy failure represents a significant challenge in the management of ovarian cancer (OC) and contributes to disease recurrence and poor prognosis. Recent studies have shed light on the involvement of the gut microbiota in modulating anticancer treatments. However, the precise underlying mechanisms by which the gut microbiota regulates the response to platinum-based therapy remain unclear.
Methods
To investigate the influence of gut microbiota on the anticancer response, we conducted a study to examine whether antibiotic-induced disruption of gut microbiota affected the efficacy of cisplatin. 16S rRNA sequencing and metabolomic analysis were performed to analyze the alteration in the gut microbiota and fecal metabolism. OC-bearing mice and OC cell lines were used to examine the effect of 3-methylxanthine.
Results
Our results demonstrate a substantial improvement in the anticancer efficacy of cisplatin following antibiotic-induced perturbation of the gut microbiota. Through metabolomic analysis, we identified distinct metabolic profiles in the antibiotic treated group, with a notable enrichment of the gut-derived metabolite 3-methylxanthine in antibiotic-treated mice. Next, we employed a strategy combining transcriptome analysis and protein-protein interaction network databases. We identified metabolites that shared structural similarity with 3-methylxanthine, which interacted with genes enriched in cancer-related pathways. 3-methylxanthine, that significantly enhances the effectiveness of cisplatin by promoting apoptosis both in vivo and in vitro. Importantly, through integrative multiomics analyses, we elucidated the mechanistic basis of this enhanced apoptosis, revealing a dopamine receptor D1-dependent pathway mediated by 3-methylxanthine.
Conclusions
This study elucidated the mechanism by which gut-derived metabolite 3-methylxanthine mediateds cisplaitn induced apoptosis. Our findings highlight the potential translational significance of 3-methylxanthine as an adjuvant in conjunction with cisplatin, aiming to improve treatment outcomes for OC patients.
Purification and use of crude Green Glycerol from the transesterification of triglycerides in the formulation of analcohol gel hand sanitizer
Authors: Barbosa Sandro L. , Mazala Tassio Trindade , Viana Mateus Costa , Carneiro Guilherme , Nelson David Lee , de Freitas-Marques Maria B. , De Martinis Bruno Spinosa , Florêncio Jacques 
Published: October 2023

Abstract

As a result of the COVID-19 epidemic and the greater demand for alcohol gel sanitizers, the regulatory guidelines on sanitizer quality have been altered. The aim of this study was to produce green glycerol and an alcohol gel hand sanitizer. The ethanol content was measured by headspace (HS) gas chromatography (GC) using a flame ionization detector (FID). The thermal behavior of the gels is influenced by the presence of glycerol, which is an aspect that confirms the possible network interactions formed. The relative densities of the samples were between 0.887–0.890 g/cm³. The incorporation of glycerol did not significantly alter the pH of the final formulation, which was near neutrality. Both alcohol gels exhibited a high average apparent viscosity, greater than 20,000 cP, with no statistically significant difference between them (p > 0.05). The addition of glycerol did not change the in vitro spreadability of the gel alcohol, which remained at 530.6 mm² for both samples.
Understanding the Prevalence and Consequences of Mental Health Disorders among Youths: A Focus on Secondary School Students in Hong Kong.
Authors: Fang Tyler , Oladosu Ayomide 
Published: October 2023

Abstract
Background
Young people are significantly affected by mental health disorders like depression, anxiety, and stress. Mental health education and awareness have been proven effective in preventing these disorders. However, there is evidence that mental health education is lacking or voluntary in local secondary schools in Hong Kong, increasing the vulnerability of young people in local schools compared to their peers in international schools. Therefore, understanding the prevalence of mental health disorders among local secondary school students in Hong Kong is crucial to highlight the necessity of mental health education and support in addressing these challenges effectively.
Objective
The objective of this study is to assess the mental health of young people attending local secondary schools in Hong Kong. By gaining a deeper understanding of the prevalent mental health issues, the study emphasises the need for mental health awareness in local schools in Hong Kong.
Methods
The study utilized a quantitative survey method to collect data on mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, and stress among from 377 local secondary school students in Hong Kong. The survey employed the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale (DASS 21) to measure the prevalence of mental health disorders. Inferential analysis was conducted using SPSS version 26 to generate the result of this study.
Results
The study findings indicate that 33.3% of local secondary students experienced depression, 41.4% experienced anxiety, and 49% experienced stress. Additionally, there were gender variations across all mental health disorders, with females reporting higher levels of severe depression, anxiety, and stress compared to male students in local secondary schools.
Conclusions
This study emphasizes the high prevalence and severity of mental health conditions among local secondary school students in Hong Kong, highlighting the importance of integrating mental health education into the curriculum of these schools. It reveals a significant proportion of students experiencing poor mental health, particularly depression, anxiety, and stress. Gender disparities are observed, with females experiencing more severe mental health conditions. The study underscores the importance of targeted interventions and support for females, while promoting mental health awareness and reducing stigma for all students. Further research is recommended to understand underlying factors and inform evidence-based interventions. Proactive measures are necessary to address mental health concerns and create a supportive environment for young people in Hong Kong, especially in local secondary schools.
Virtual reality-based training may improve visual memory and some aspects of sustained attention among healthy older adults – preliminary results of a randomized controlled study
Authors: Szczepocka Ewa , Mokros Łukasz , Kaźmierski Jakub , Nowakowska Karina , Łucka Anna , Antoszczyk Anna , Oltra-Cucarella Javier , Werzowa Walter , Hellevik Martin , Skouras Stavros , Bagger Karsten 
Published: October 2023

Abstract

Background/Aims
Older age and cognitive inactivity have been associated with cognitive impairment, which in turn is linked to economic and societal burdens due to the high costs of care, especially for care homes and informal care. Emerging non-pharmacological interventions using new technologies, such as virtual reality (VR) delivered on a head-mounted display (HMD), might offer an alternative to maintain or improve cognition. The study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of a VR-based Digital Therapeutics application for improving cognitive functions among healthy older adults.
Methods
Seventy-two healthy seniors (experimental group N = 35, control group N = 37), aged 65–85 years, were recruited by the Medical University of Lodz (Poland). Participants were randomly allocated to the experimental group (a VR-based cognitive training which consists of a warm-up module and three tasks, including one-back and dual-N-back) or to the control group (a regular VR headset app only showing nature videos). The exercises are performed in different 360-degree natural environments while listening to a preferred music genre and delivered on a head-mounted display (HMD). The 12-week intervention of 12 minutes was delivered at least three times per week (36 sessions). Compliance and performance were followed through a web-based application. Primary outcomes included attention and working memory (CNS-Vital Signs computerized cognitive battery). Secondary outcomes comprised other cognitive domains. Mixed linear models were constructed to elucidate the difference in pre- and post-intervention measures between the experimental and control groups.
Results
The users performed, on average, 39.8 sessions (range 1-100), and 60% performed more than 36 sessions. The experimental group achieved higher scores in the visual memory module (B = 7.767, p = 0.011) and in the one-back continuous performance test (in terms of correct responses: B = 2.057, p = 0.003 and omission errors: B=-1.950, p = 0.007) than the control group in the post-test assessment. The results were independent of participants' sex, age, and years of education. The differences in CNS Vital Signs' global score, working memory, executive function, reaction time, processing speed, simple and complex attention, verbal memory, cognitive flexibility, motor speed, and psychomotor speed were not statistically significant.
Conclusions
VR-based cognitive training may prove to be a valuable, efficacious, and well-received tool in terms of improving visual memory and some aspect of sustainability of attention among healthy older adults. Final conclusions will be drawn after the analysis of the target sample size.
Trial registration:
Clinicaltrials.gov ID NCT05369897
Wave Mechanics of Microwave Absorption Films: Part 3 - Multilayered Films
Authors: Liu Yue , Liu Ying , Drew Michael G. B. 
Published: October 2023

Abstract

In the field of microwave absorption, the quarter-wavelength theory (QWM) is commonly employed for films with multiple layers. However, this study demonstrates the inadequacy of QWM as it is fundamentally flawed. The conventional results pertaining to films with or without a metal backing are typically applied to the central layers of multilayer films. Nevertheless, this approach is flawed, as it overlooks the presence of incident microwaves on both sides of the central layer, focusing solely on those in front of the film. To address this gap, our work introduces a novel theoretical framework for multilayer films, filling the void in existing literature. This research introduces a new, robust physical approach to understanding Multilayered films.
Enhancing rural drinking water safety using an Mg–Al-type layered double hydroxide foil as a new point-of-use disinfection tool
Authors: Ihsan Taufiq , Johan Erni , Fukugaichi Satoru , Matsue Naoto 
Published: October 2023

Abstract

Point-of-use (POU) drinking water treatment is crucial for residents in resource-constrained areas. This study introduces a layered double hydroxide (LDH) foil, an innovative POU device that eliminates waterborne pathogens via adsorption. It is an aluminum foil coated with magnesium–aluminum (Mg–Al)-type LDH, a recognized human-safe pathogen adsorbent. Its sheet-like morphology enables easy retrieval of inherently powdered LDH from post-disinfected water. Coating with Mg–Al LDH foils was accomplished by immersing aluminum foils in alkaline magnesium solutions, resulting in the on-surface formation of LDH. Using 12 distinct alkaline magnesium solutions, 12 types of LDH foils were prepared. Most LDH foils demonstrated &gt;99% removal of Escherichia coli (DH5α strain) within 3–24 h when 100 mL of water was inoculated with DH5α at approximately 103 colony-forming units (CFU)/mL agitated with a 25-cm2 LDH foil piece. The LDH foil with the highest efficacy had a maximum adsorption capacity of approximately 1.3 × 106 CFU per 1-cm2 LDH foil. Furthermore, the LDH foil was regenerated by submersing it in the alkaline solution during its preparation, enabling multiple reuses. Owing to its straightforward production and application, the LDH foil holds substantial promise as a convenient-to-use adsorbent for batch water disinfection, such as jug water, in rural households.
Waste materials composited into an adsorbent for landfill leachate treatment
Authors: Kumara K. K. P. S. , Dayanthi W. K. C. Neetha 
Published: October 2023

Abstract

The ability of a composite adsorbent composed primarily of various waste materials to adsorb heavy metals, NH3-N, and chemical oxygen demand (COD) from landfill leachate was investigated through batch sorption experiments. The study determined the optimal contact time and adsorbent dosage for the removal of Pb, Zn, Cu, Fe, NH3-N, and COD to be 15, 90, 30, 180, 30, and 30 min, respectively. The corresponding optimum adsorbent dosages were determined to be 5, 30, 5, 15, 5, and 30 g, respectively. The composite adsorbent exhibited high removal efficiencies, achieving the following maximum values: 96.4% for Pb, 92.7% for Zn, 60.3% for Cu, 87.1% for Fe, 75.0% for NH3-N, and 67.5% for COD. Pb and Fe showed the best fit with a Langmuir isotherm model, with corresponding adsorption capacities of 0.0165 and 1.14 mg/g, respectively. For Zn, Cu, NH3-N, and COD, the equilibrium data demonstrated the best fit with an Elovich isotherm model, with adsorption capacities of 0.004, 0.005, 0.016, and 4.29 mg/g, respectively. The kinetic data followed the pseudo-second-order kinetic model. It presented a potential solution for the disposal of the waste from which it was derived.
Wastewater governance in the upstream catchment of the Awash Basin, Ethiopia: challenges and opportunities for better accountability
Authors: Abebe Yosef , Gashaw Mulugeta , Kefale Asenake , Brewer Tim 
Published: October 2023

Abstract

With the growing competition for water, demand for food, and the decline of freshwater resources, wastewater and polluted river waters have been increasingly used for agriculture in Ethiopia. The findings of this study show that untreated wastewater discharged from industries into the environment has been polluting rivers and the surrounding environment. Regulatory bodies did little to enforce rules, regulations, and directives provided for the regulation of wastewater. This paper examines the factors that explain weaknesses with respect to the accountability of institutions meant for wastewater governance. In doing so, it discusses task overlaps, corruption, and the absence of environmental courts that significantly affect environmental protection activities. The study found that due to poor implementation of laws and regulations, and lack of relevant information, including poor evidence of the pollution load, enforcement activities are under a great challenge. The paper concludes urban agriculture has been expanding without concern for its negative health and socioeconomic impacts. The positive economic impacts of wastewater agriculture also need to be reassessed and improved as one livelihood option for the farming communities and calls for awareness creation and other measures to fully understand the existing benefits and impacts of wastewater on human health, and the environment.
Automated Control Systems in Greenhouses
Authors: Skripko L. P. , Skripko A. A. 
Published: October 2023

Objective. The purpose of the research is to develop an innovative automated program associated with a completely new irrigation regime based on a closed water supply system.Method. Methods of modeling, formalized description, optimal design and control of technological processes and production were used.Result. An automated control system in greenhouse farming based on Arduino controllers and ONI PLR Studio software for its operation are presented. The scientific novelty of the work lies in the creation of appropriate modes of the climate control system in greenhouses. The ONI PLR Studio program is written in FBD language. It solves important problems of controlling the cultivation of agricultural products, breeding new plant varieties, and controlling the technological process using certain signals. User input is limited to software adjustments and direct setting of controller parameters. The adjustment can be carried out remotely through a computer connected to the controller. The automatic operating mode is provided by sensors and a controller with electronic control circuits, which ensure that the actuators operate in the required mode.Conclusion. An automated control system (ACS) allows you to control air and soil temperature, soil and air humidity, soil nutrition, disinfection, air pressure, lighting, the presence of carbon dioxide in the greenhouse, and climate control.