GLUT and HK: Two primary and essential key players in tumor glycolysis

Cancer cells reprogram their metabolism to become "glycolysis-dominant," which enables them to meet their energy and macromolecule needs and enhancing their rate of survival. This glycolytic-dominancy is known as the "Warburg effect", a significant factor in the growth and invasion of malignant tumors. Many studies confirmed that members of the GLUT family, specifically HK-II from the HK family play a pivotal role in the Warburg effect, and are closely associated with glucose transportation followed by glucose metabolism in cancer cells. Overexpression of GLUTs and HK-II correlates with aggressive tumor behaviour and tumor microenvironment making them attractive therapeutic targets. Several studies have proven that the regulation of GLUTs and HK-II expression improves the treatment outcome for various tumors. Therefore, small molecule inhibitors targeting GLUT and HK-II show promise in sensitizing cancer cells to treatment, either alone or in combination with existing therapies including chemotherapy, radiotherapy, immunotherapy, and photodynamic therapy. Despite existing therapies, viable methods to target the glycolysis of cancer cells are currently lacking to increase the effectiveness of cancer treatment. This review explores the current understanding of GLUT and HK-II in cancer metabolism, recent inhibitor developments, and strategies for future drug development, offering insights into improving cancer treatment efficacy.

Targeting Fks1 proteins for novel antifungal drug discovery

Fungal infections are a major threat to human health. The limited availability of antifungal drugs, the emergence of drug resistance, and a growing susceptible population highlight the critical need for novel antifungal agents. The enzymes involved in fungal cell wall synthesis offer potential targets for antifungal drug development. Recent studies have enhanced our focus on the enzyme Fks1, which synthesizes β-1,3-glucan, a critical component of the cell wall. These studies provide a deeper understanding of Fks1's function in cell wall biosynthesis, pathogenicity, structural biology, evolutionary conservation across fungi, and interaction with current antifungal drugs. Here, we discuss the role of Fks1 in the survival and adaptation of fungi, guided by insights from evolutionary and structural analyses. Furthermore, we delve into the dynamics of Fks1 modulation with novel antifungal strategies and assess its potential as an antifungal drug target.

The structural, stability, electronic, optical and thermodynamic properties of MoX2 (X= S, Se, and Te) under hydrostatic pressures: a plasmon approach and first-principle study

CONTEXT

The new equations have been developed for the structural and electronic properties using the plasmon calculations for the first time for 2-D MoX2 structures. Literature shows still an extensive study is required on the stability and optical properties of MoX2 under different hydrostatic pressures and thermal properties under different temperatures using the first principles, for electronic industrial applications. The stability is analyzed using binding energy and phonon calculations. The phase transition of metallization of MoX2 is discussed using band structure calculations under different hydrostatic pressures. The calculated work function shows the photoemission starts from the threshold frequency of 4.189×104 cm-1, 3.184×104 cm-1, and 3.651×104 cm-1, respectively, for MoS2, MoSe2, and MoTe2 materials. The optical properties such as refractive index n(0), and static dielectric permittivity ε(0) for three successive materials are calculated under different hydrostatic pressures, applicable for optoelectronic applications. The calculated theoretical and computational values agree well with each other and also agree with reported and experimental values. Some of the values are calculated for the first time.

METHODS

The theoretical equations are derived using the molecular weight, effective valence electrons, and density of molecule of MoX2 structures. The simulation work is performed using GGA-PBE approximation in the CASTEP simulation package with DFT+D semi-empirical dispersion correction. An ultra-soft pseudopotential representation calculates the electronic and optical properties with a finite basis set kinetic energy cut-off of 381.0 eV. Each geometry has been optimized using Broyden, Fletcher, Goldfarb, and Shanno's (BFGS) algorithm for 100 iterations with a fixed basis quality variable cell method and finite electronic minimization parameters. The phonon calculations were performed using TDFT with a kinetic energy cut of 460 eV in a norm-conserving linear response method. The interpolation with a finite dispersion quality and q-vector grid spacing is performed.

A bis-quinoline ruthenium(II) arene complex with submicromolar cytotoxicity in castration-resistant prostate cancer cells

A new Ru(II) arene chlorido organometallic complex [(η6-p-cymene)(L)RuCl]PF6 (named as pCYRuL) using 2-bis(quinolin-2-ylmethylene) hydrazine (L) was developed that exhibits potent anticancer activity against castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC) (IC50 = 0.71 μM), and it is 45 times more effective than the standard drug cisplatin (IC50 = 31.3 μM) in a castration-resistant human prostatic adenocarcinoma cell line (PC-3) but non-toxic in normal human kidney cells (HK2) as well as normal breast cells (MCF10A) and found that pCYRuL exerted anticancer activity via apoptosis induction and cell cycle arrest in the G2/M phase of PC-3 cells.

Taking cues from machine learning, compartmental and time series models for SARS-CoV-2 omicron infection in Indian provinces

SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for COVID-19, posed a significant threat to the world. We analyzed COVID-19 dissemination data in the top ten Indian provinces by infection incidences using the Susceptible-Infectious-Removed (SIR) model, an Autoregressive Integrated Moving Average (ARIMA) time series model, a machine learning model based on the Random Forest, and distribution fitting. Outbreaks are expected to continue if the Basic Reproduction Number (R0) > 1, and infection waves are anticipated to end if the R0 < 1, as determined by the SIR model. Different parametric probability distributions are also fitted. Data collected from December 12, 2021, to March 31, 2022, encompassing data from both before and during the implementation of strict control measures. Based on the estimates of the model parameters, health agencies and government policymakers can develop strategies to combat the spread of the disease in the future, and the most effective technique can be recommended for real-world application for other outbreaks of COVID-19. The best method out of these could be also implemented further on the epidemiological data of other similar infectious agents.

In silico environmental risk assessment improves efficiency for pesticide safety management

Pesticides are indispensable to maintain crop quality and food production worldwide, but their use also poses environmental risks. Pesticide risk assessment involves a series of complex, expensive and time-consuming toxicity tests. To improve the efficiency and accuracy for assessing the environmental impact of pesticides, numerous computational tools have been developed. However, there is a notable deficiency in critical analysis or a systematic summary of environmental risk assessment tools and their applicable contexts. Here, many of the current approaches and tools for assessing environmental risks posed by pesticides are reviewed, and the question of whether these tools are fit for use on complex multicomponent scenarios is discussed. We analyze the adaptations of these tools to aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems, followed by the provision of resources for predicting pesticide concentrations in environmental medias, including air, soil and water. The successful application of computational tools for risk assessment and interpretation of predicted results will also be discussed. This assessment serves as a valuable resource, enabling scientists to utilize suitable models to enhance the robustness of pesticides risk assessments.

Transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion with placement of steerable banana cage: A single-center retrospective analysis of radiographic parameters of success

INTRODUCTION

The transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF) is among the most utilized methods for the surgical treatment of lumbar degenerative disc disease. The TLIF has advanced significantly with several iterative changes since its inception in the early 1980s, with the advent of several generations of interbody types, shapes, and materials. Steerable curvilinear interbodies are among the most recent innovations in this space and may offer biomechanical advantages, namely in preservation of lumbar and segmental lordosis. While radiographic parameters have been investigated for other cage shapes and lumbar interbody fusion techniques, no study has investigated postoperative radiographic outcomes specific to TLIFs done with curvilinear interbodies.

METHODS

This study is a retrospective review of TLIFs performed with curvilinear interbodies between 2019 and 2022 at a single institution. Upright radiographs were obtained preoperatively and at several timepoints postoperatively. Radiographic variables including interspace height and segmental lordosis were collected.

RESULTS

26 surgeries with 32 curvilinear interbodies were performed across 3 years. There was significant increase in segmental lordosis at the L4-L5 (p = 0.0183) and L5-S1 levels (p = 0.004) as well as interspace height postoperatively at levels L3-L4 (p = 0.011) and L4-L5 (p = 0.002). Pain as measured with the numeric rating scale significantly improved in the overall cohort postoperatively (p<0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

TLIF with curvilinear interbody placement increases segmental lordosis and interspace height at the L4-L5 and L5-S1 levels, and increased interspace height at the L3-L4 and L4-L5 levels. Further investigation into additional radiographic parameters is warranted and expanded cohort size would benefit deeper analysis of other spinal levels.

IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE

As an increasing number of cage designs and materials are brought to market, studies such as this allow for better understanding of cage specific outcomes allowing for better informed device selection.

Deciphering drug discovery and microbial pathogenesis research in tuberculosis during the two decades of postgenomic era using entity mining approach

We examined literature on Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) subsequent to its genome release, spanning years 1999-2020. We employed scientometric mapping, entity mining, visualization techniques, and PubMed and PubTator databases. Most popular keywords, most active research groups, and growth in quantity of publications were determined. By gathering annotations from the PubTator, we determined direction of research in the areas of drug hypersensitivity, drug resistance (AMR), and drug-related side effects. Additionally, we examined the patterns in research on Mtb metabolism and various forms of tuberculosis, including skin, brain, pulmonary, extrapulmonary, and latent tuberculosis. We discovered that 2011 had the highest annual growth rate of publications, at 19.94%. The USA leads the world in publications with 18,038, followed by China with 14,441, and India with 12,158 publications. Studies on isoniazid and rifampicin resistance showed an enormous increase. Non-tuberculous mycobacteria also been the subject of more research in effort to better understand Mtb physiology and as model organisms. Researchers also looked at co-infections like leprosy, hepatitis, plasmodium, HIV, and other opportunistic infections. Host perspectives like immune response, hypoxia, and reactive oxygen species, as well as comorbidities like arthritis, cancer, diabetes, and kidney disease etc. were also looked at. Symptomatic aspects like fever, coughing, and weight loss were also investigated. Vitamin D has gained popularity as a supplement during illness recovery, however, the interest of researchers declined off late. We delineated dominant researchers, journals, institutions, and leading nations globally, which is crucial for aligning ongoing and evolving landscape of TB research efforts. Recognising the dominant patterns offers important information about the areas of focus for current research, allowing biomedical scientists, clinicians, and organizations to strategically coordinate their efforts with the changing priorities in the field of tuberculosis research.

High prevalence of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) antibodies among unvaccinated children of Chandigarh, Northwest India, in a household-based paediatric serosurvey post-second wave of pandemic (June to July 2021)

OBJECTIVE

Current national severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) vaccination policy covers children aged >12 years. Unvaccinated, uninfected children remain susceptible to SARS-CoV-2 and play a role in community transmission, as paediatric infection is mostly mild or asymptomatic. To estimate the proportion of susceptible children in a community for public health measures, there is a need to assess the extent of natural infection.

STUDY DESIGN

We performed a cross-sectional household serosurvey of SARS-CoV-2 antibodies in unvaccinated children aged between 6 and 18 years after the second COVID-19 wave.

METHODS

Anti-SARS-CoV-2 immunoglobin G (IgG) testing in serum was done using chemiluminescence immunoassay. We used a logistic regression model to investigate predicted factors of seropositivity.

RESULTS

We observed a high prevalence (weighted average: 68.3%) of anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG in 2700 enrolled children. Logistic regression for predictors of IgG seropositivity showed lower odds in households with completely vaccinated adults (adjusted odds ratio [OR]: 0.43, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.26-0.71, P = 0.0011) compared with households with unvaccinated adults. Other factors for low seropositivity included frontline workers as family members (adjusted OR: 0.69, 95% CI: 0.52-0.91, P = 0.0091) and non-crowded households (adjusted OR: 0.74, 95% CI: 0.61-0.89, P = 0.0019).

CONCLUSION

A high SARS-CoV-2 IgG prevalence in unvaccinated children was indicative of previous exposure to potentially infected contacts. This implies in-person academic activities for children can be continued during future community transmission. Comparatively lower seropositivity in children of completely vaccinated households or frontline workers suggests decreased transmission due to vaccination-induced immunity of family members. Vaccination will still be required in these children to maintain protective IgG levels, particularly in low seroprevalence groups.

SEVERITY OF MITRAL REGURGITATION AND ITS ASSOCIATION WITH LEFT VENTRICULAR DYSFUNCTION AND BRAIN-NATRIURETIC PEPTIDE LEVELS IN PATIENTS WITH ACUTE DECOMPENSATED HEART FAILURE

Acute decompensated heart failure (ADHF) is greatly influenced by levels of brain-natriuretic peptides (BNP) and thereby may have strong correlation with severity of mitral regurgitation (MR) and left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF). The available data on its association is limited which sought us to investigate correlations between type of ADHF, BNP levels and severity of MR. A single-center, cross-sectional, observational study was conducted at Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research, Chennai, India. Adults aged >18 years, either gender, diagnosed as ADHF requiring hospital admission within 24 hours were incorporated into the research.Between June 2019 to June 2020, we included 79 patients of ADHF. The mean age was 64.9±11 years and 60.8% were males. The mean LVEF was 40.2±10.2%. The severity of MR was severe, moderate, and mild in 3.8%, 21.5% and 74.7% of patients, respectively. The proportion of patients with moderate to severe MR was significantly higher in ADHF patients with reduced EF compared to mid-range or preserved EF. The median levels of BNP significantly increased from 520.0 pg/ml in mild MR to 1020.0 pg/ml in moderate and 1410.0 pg/ml in severe MR. In patients with ADHF, MR is a common finding. The severity of MR is associated with greater reduction in ejection fraction. Determination of MR severity is essential in all ADHF cases. Further, stratification of patients using BNP levels may help in identifying those at higher risk of adverse outcomes in ADHF.

Echocardiography for Volume Assessment in Acute Myocardial Infarction

Background Errors caused by improper volume estimation increase acute mortality rates in acute myocardial infarction (AMI). We aimed to determine volume status in AMI patients using echocardiography and to correlate the findings with clinical outcomes. Methods This cross-sectional, single-center study was performed at a tertiary care center in India between August 2017 and September 2020 involving AMI patients. We performed echocardiography for all patients. Parameters such as left ventricle (LV) and atrium size, LV end-diastolic pressure, inferior vena cava (IVC) size and size variation, velocity stroke volume, and velocity time integral variation were measured. B-lines were recorded by scanning 32 regions on the anterior chest in the supine position using cardiac probes of echocardiography. Results A total of 184 patients were enrolled in the study with male predominance (82.1%). The mean age of patients was 58.2 ± 10.7 years. Dilated (>2.1 cm) and collapsible (<50%) IVC, and B-lines were significantly associated with heart failure (HF) (p<0.001; r=0.87 and p<0.001; r=0.74, respectively). The area under receiver operating characteristics (AUROC) curve to diagnose HF at a cut-off value of >10 for B-lines was 0.897 (0.842-0.951). AUROC curve for IVC size in diagnosing hypovolemia was 0.063 (0.000-0.130). Conclusions Volume status based on IVC size and B-lines detected by echocardiography has a strong prognostic value in AMI patients and should be included in the routine assessment of these patients.

Inferring the diurnal variability of OH radical concentrations over the Amazon from BVOC measurements

The atmospheric oxidation of biogenic volatile organic compounds (BVOC) by OH radicals over tropical rainforests impacts local particle production and the lifetime of globally distributed chemically and radiatively active gases. For the pristine Amazon rainforest during the dry season, we empirically determined the diurnal OH radical variability at the forest-atmosphere interface region between 80 and 325 m from 07:00 to 15:00 LT using BVOC measurements. A dynamic time warping approach was applied showing that median averaged mixing times between 80 to 325 m decrease from 105 to 15 min over this time period. The inferred OH concentrations show evidence for an early morning OH peak (07:00-08:00 LT) and an OH maximum (14:00 LT) reaching 2.2 (0.2, 3.8) × 106 molecules cm-3 controlled by the coupling between BVOC emission fluxes, nocturnal NOx accumulation, convective turbulence, air chemistry and photolysis rates. The results were evaluated with a turbulence resolving transport (DALES), a regional scale (WRF-Chem) and a global (EMAC) atmospheric chemistry model.

Comparison Between Distal Trans-radial Access and Conventional Trans-radial Access for Coronary Angiography

Background Compared with a conventional wrist puncture for radial artery catheterization, a distal radial artery puncture has the advantage of reducing the incidence of radial artery occlusion (RAO). Aim The present study was designed to evaluate the feasibility of distal trans-radial access compared with conventional trans-radial access for coronary angiography. Methods A prospective, randomized, single-blinded, comparative study was conducted at a tertiary care center in India between December 2018 and November 2020. A total of 420 patients (aged >18 years) with signs and symptoms suggestive of coronary artery disease (CAD) and with a palpable radial artery in anatomical snuffbox were randomized into two groups. Group A comprised patients accessed at the distal trans-radial site, and Group B consisted of patients accessed at the conventional trans-radial site for coronary angiography. Baseline demographics, clinical history, and risk factors for CAD were documented. Procedural-related parameters and complications were compared between the two groups. Results The procedural success rate was non-significant between Group A and Group B (96% vs. 98%; p=0.38). Puncture in a single attempt was higher in Group B compared to Group A (92% vs. 78%; p<0.001). There was no significant difference between Group A and Group B for operation time (p=0.207), fluoroscopy time (p=0.183), and contrast volume (p=0.345). The rate of RAO was higher in Group B compared to Group A (13% vs. 2%; p<0.001). Radial artery hematoma/swelling at the puncture site between Group A (10%) and Group B (8%) was not significant (p=0.61). Post-procedural hemostasis time in Group A was 28 ± 7.86 minutes, and in Group B was 24 ± 6.23 minutes. Both post-procedural persistence of pain (p<0.001) and hand clumsiness (p<0.001) were significantly higher in Group B compared to Group A. Conclusion For coronary angiography, the distal trans-radial access site is a reliable and secure alternate access site.

In silico resources help combat cancer drug resistance mediated by target mutations

Drug resistance causes catastrophic cancer treatment failures. Mutations in target proteins with altered drug binding indicate a main mechanism of cancer drug resistance (CDR). Global research has generated considerable CDR-related data and well-established knowledge bases and predictive tools. Unfortunately, these resources are fragmented and underutilized. Here, we examine computational resources for exploring CDR caused by target mutations, analyzing these tools based on their functional characteristics, data capacity, data sources, methodologies and performance. We also discuss their disadvantages and provide examples of how potential inhibitors of CDR have been discovered using these resources. This toolkit is designed to help specialists explore resistance occurrence effectively and to explain resistance prediction to non-specialists easily.

Measurements of jet multiplicity and jet transverse momentum in multijet events in proton-proton collisions at s=13TeV

Multijet events at large transverse momentum (p T ) are measured at s = 13 Te V using data recorded with the CMS detector at the LHC, corresponding to an integrated luminosity of 36.3 fb - 1 . The multiplicity of jets with p T > 50 Ge V that are produced in association with a high-p T dijet system is measured in various ranges of the p T of the jet with the highest transverse momentum and as a function of the azimuthal angle difference Δ ϕ 1 , 2 between the two highest p T jets in the dijet system. The differential production cross sections are measured as a function of the transverse momenta of the four highest p T jets. The measurements are compared with leading and next-to-leading order matrix element calculations supplemented with simulations of parton shower, hadronization, and multiparton interactions. In addition, the measurements are compared with next-to-leading order matrix element calculations combined with transverse-momentum dependent parton densities and transverse-momentum dependent parton shower.

Azimuthal Correlations within Exclusive Dijets with Large Momentum Transfer in Photon-Lead Collisions

The structure of nucleons is multidimensional and depends on the transverse momenta, spatial geometry, and polarization of the constituent partons. Such a structure can be studied using high-energy photons produced in ultraperipheral heavy-ion collisions. The first measurement of the azimuthal angular correlations of exclusively produced events with two jets in photon-lead interactions at large momentum transfer is presented, a process that is considered to be sensitive to the underlying nuclear gluon polarization. This study uses a data sample of ultraperipheral lead-lead collisions at sqrt[s_{NN}]=5.02  TeV, corresponding to an integrated luminosity of 0.38  nb^{-1}, collected with the CMS experiment at the LHC. The measured second harmonic of the correlation between the sum and difference of the two jet transverse momentum vectors is found to be positive, and rising, as the dijet transverse momentum increases. A well-tuned model that has been successful at describing a wide range of proton scattering data from the HERA experiments fails to describe the observed correlations, suggesting the presence of gluon polarization effects.

Measurement of the mass dependence of the transverse momentum of lepton pairs in Drell-Yan production in proton-proton collisions at s=13TeV

The double differential cross sections of the Drell-Yan lepton pair (ℓ + ℓ - , dielectron or dimuon) production are measured as functions of the invariant mass m ℓ ℓ , transverse momentum p T ( ℓ ℓ ) , and φ η ∗ . The φ η ∗ observable, derived from angular measurements of the leptons and highly correlated with p T ( ℓ ℓ ) , is used to probe the low-p T ( ℓ ℓ ) region in a complementary way. Dilepton masses up to 1Te V are investigated. Additionally, a measurement is performed requiring at least one jet in the final state. To benefit from partial cancellation of the systematic uncertainty, the ratios of the differential cross sections for various m ℓ ℓ ranges to those in the Z mass peak interval are presented. The collected data correspond to an integrated luminosity of 36.3fb - 1 of proton-proton collisions recorded with the CMS detector at the LHC at a centre-of-mass energy of 13Te V . Measurements are compared with predictions based on perturbative quantum chromodynamics, including soft-gluon resummation.

THE MICROBIOME AND METABOLIC DISORDERS: THE LINK BETWEEN THE GUT MICROBIOTA AND METABOLIC SYNDROME

The diverse population of microbes that live in our digestive system, known as the gut microbiota, remains essential for many physiological processes. It plays a role in obtaining energy from food and controls both regional and overall immunity. In addition, changes in the microbiota of the digestive tract are connected to the emergence of an extensive variety of illnesses, such as cancer, gastrointestinal problems, and metabolic disorders. From a metabolic perspective, the gut microbiota can affect processes like lipid accumulation, lipopolysaccharide satisfied, and short-chain fatty acid synthesis, all of which have an effect on food intake, inflammatory reactions, and insulin signaling. Prebiotics, probiotics, specialized anti-diabetic medications, and faecalmicrobiota implantation are a few of the ways that have been discovered to alter the gut microbiota; each has a different influence the human body's metabolism and the emergence of metabolic disorders. These therapies have been reported to be therapeutic strategies for enhancing general wellness and reestablishing a balanced gut flora.

POSTCHOLECYSTECTOMY SYNDROME: UNDERSTANDING THE CAUSES AND DEVELOPING TREATMENT STRATEGIES FOR PERSISTENT BILIARY SYMPTOMS AFTER GALLBLADDER REMOVAL

Persistent biliary symptoms following gallbladder removal, known as postcholecystectomy (PCS), can significantly impact patients' quality of life. The term PCS describes biliary symptoms that emerge or continue after the surgical removal of the gallbladder. Cholecystectomy is generally a safe procedure; however, some individuals may still experience symptoms of the biliary system thereafter. Biliary stones are more likely to be retained in patients who arrive later. Many of those people won't have a known reason for their condition. Therefore, this group will have fewer therapy alternatives. After a cholecystectomy, up to 10% of individuals may develop PCS. Patients with cholecystectomy procedures can appear with extra-biliary and associated biological illnesses. A wide range of therapeutic options are available for PCS, each having a different chance of being the cause of the condition. The purpose of this study is to present an overview of the many causes of PCS, as well as the effectiveness and prevalence of various treatments. PCS has a variety of etiologies, many of which may be related to extra-biliary reasons that may exist before the operation. From the beginning, an endoscopy of the upper gastrointestinal tract may be necessary when symptoms first appear. Biliary rocks are more likely to be retained in patient presentations that are postponed. PCS has various causes, including extra-biliary conditions that could have existed before operations. Initial symptoms might involve higher digestive problems. As a result, this group will only have a few therapeutic alternatives.

CARDIAC REHABILITATION: IMPROVING OUTCOMES FOR PATIENTS WITH HEART DISEASE

To evaluate the extent to that blood pressure management objectives are fulfilled in patients with Diabetes Mellitus (DM) and hypertension (HT), as well as the impact of the Cardiac Rehabilitation plan on the patient's useful ability, mental health, and pathological risk factors. The Cardiac Rehabilitation (CR) participants' anthropometric measurements, medications, lipid profiles, and medical and social backgrounds were all the subjects of the 19-month data collection. The parameters of the topics' minute walk test and Patient Health Questionnaire(PHQ) were further investigated. The Calvary Public Hospital in Canberra's CR program sessions required participants to show up for at least 10 of the sessions to be qualified. Seventy-nine people took part in the research. Significant reductions in low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels in the blood of participants, as well as gains in a patient health questionnaire and 6 min walk test (6MWT) scores, were seen. Additionally, people increased drug management. Results showed considerable improvements in diastolic blood pressure, physical capacity, depression, and anxiety in DM patients. A cardiac rehabilitation program may lower cardiovascular disease risk factors while enhancing participants' physical and emotional well-being. Results shown the cardiac rehabilitation program lowers the risk factors linked with DM patients' cardiovascular and renal disease via increased physical fitness and decreased levels of anxiety and despair.

MicroLED/LED electro-optical integration techniques for non-display applications

MicroLEDs offer an extraordinary combination of high luminance, high energy efficiency, low cost, and long lifetime. These characteristics are highly desirable in various applications, but their usage has, to date, been primarily focused toward next-generation display technologies. Applications of microLEDs in other technologies, such as projector systems, computational imaging, communication systems, or neural stimulation, have been limited. In non-display applications which use microLEDs as light sources, modifications in key electrical and optical characteristics such as external efficiency, output beam shape, modulation bandwidth, light output power, and emission wavelengths are often needed for optimum performance. A number of advanced fabrication and processing techniques have been used to achieve these electro-optical characteristics in microLEDs. In this article, we review the non-display application areas of the microLEDs, the distinct opto-electrical characteristics required for these applications, and techniques that integrate the optical and electrical components on the microLEDs to improve system-level efficacy and performance.

Design and Synthesis of Thiazole Scaffold-Based Small Molecules as Anticancer Agents Targeting the Human Lactate Dehydrogenase A Enzyme

A new series of thiazole central scaffold-based small molecules of hLDHA inhibitors were designed using an in silico approach. Molecular docking analysis of designed molecules with hLDHA (PDB ID: 1I10) demonstrates that Ala 29, Val 30, Arg 98, Gln 99, Gly 96, and Thr 94 possessed strong interaction with the compounds. Compounds 8a, 8b, and 8d showed good binding affinity (-8.1 to -8.8 kcal/mol), whereas an additional interaction of NO₂ at the ortho position in compounds 8c with Gln 99 through hydrogen bonding enhanced the affinity to -9.8 kcal/mol. Selected high-scored compounds were synthesized and screened for hLDHA inhibitory activities and in vitro anticancer activity in six cancer cell lines. Biochemical enzyme inhibition assays showed the highest hLDHA inhibitory activity observed with compounds 8b, 8c, and 8l. Compounds 8b, 8c, 8j, 8l, and 8m depicted significant anticancer activities, exhibiting IC₅₀ values in the range of 1.65-8.60 μM in HeLa and SiHa cervical cancer cell lines. Compounds 8j and 8m exhibited notable anticancer activity with IC₅₀ values of 7.90 and 5.15 μM, respectively, in liver cancer cells (HepG2). Interestingly, compounds 8j and 8m did not induce noticeable toxicity in the human embryonic kidney cells (HEK293). Insilico absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion profiling demonstrates that the compounds possess drug-likeness, and results may pave the way for the development of novel thiazole-based biologically active small molecules for therapeutics.

Clinical and ultrasonographic assessment of airway indices among non-pregnant, normotensive pregnant and pre-eclamptic patients: a prospective observational study

BACKGROUND

Prediction of a difficult airway is of paramount importance for an anaesthesiologist. Various anatomical and physiological factors contribute to a difficult airway in pregnant females, especially those with pre-eclampsia. The aim of the study was to assess airway indices using both routinely used clinical methods and ultrasound.

METHODS

Fifty-five non-pregnant females, 55 normotensive pregnant females and 55 females with pre-eclampsia were included in this prospective study. Clinical airway assessment was the modified Mallampati score, thyromental distance, hyomental distance, hyomental distance ratio, chest circumference, neck circumference and chest-to-neck circumference ratio. Sonographic assessment included tongue width, tongue volume, anterior neck soft tissue thickness at the level of hyoid, epiglottis and vocal cords, subglottic diameter, ratio of pre-epiglottic space to anterior, posterior and midpoint of anterior and posterior vocal folds.

RESULTS

Several significant differences were observed between pregnant and non-pregnant females, with additional changes in pre-eclamptic females. These included clinical parameters such as the modified Mallampati score and sonographic measurements of tongue width, tongue volume, subglottic diameter, anterior neck soft tissue thickness at the level of hyoid, epiglottis and vocal cords, and the ratio of pre-epiglottic space to anterior, posterior and midpoint of anterior and posterior vocal folds.

CONCLUSION

Routinely used clinical methods of airway assessment lack sensitivity and specificity. Ultrasound can visualise anatomical structures in the supraglottic and subglottic views and is encouraging as an airway assessment tool.

Beneficial effects of Naringin against lopinavir/ ritonavir-induced hyperlipidemia and reproductive toxicity in male albino rats

OBJECTIVE

This research work was planned to determine whether Naringin (NG) had any protective effects against lopinavir/ritonavir (LR)-induced alterations in blood lipid levels, hepatotoxicity, and testicular toxicity.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Four groups of six rats each were used for the study: Control (1% ethanol), naringin (80 mg/kg), lopinavir (80 mg/kg)/ritonavir (20 mg/kg), and lopinavir (80 mg/kg)/ritonavir (20 mg/kg) + naringin (80 mg/kg). The drug treatment was continued for 30 days. On the last day, the serum lipid fractions, liver biochemical parameters, testicular antioxidants (enzymatic and non-enzymatic), and the histopathology of the liver and testis tissue were assessed for all rats.

RESULTS

Treatment with NG decreased significantly (p<0.05), the baseline serum levels of triglycerides (TG), total cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (VLDL-C), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), and increased high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C). But these parameters were significantly (p<0.05) increased in LR-treated animals. Naringin, co-administered with LR, restored the liver and testicular biochemical, morphological, and histological balance.

CONCLUSIONS

This study shows that NG can be used as a treatment for LR-induced biochemical and histological changes in the liver and testes and changes in serum lipid levels.

Targeting monocarboxylate transporters (MCTs) in cancer: How close are we to the clinics?

As a result of metabolic reprogramming, cancer cells display high rates of glycolysis, causing an excess production of lactate along with an increase in extracellular acidity. Proton-linked monocarboxylate transporters (MCTs) are crucial in the maintenance of this metabolic phenotype, by mediating the proton-coupled lactate flux across cell membranes, also contributing to cancer cell pH regulation. Among the proteins codified by the SLC16 gene family, MCT1 and MCT4 isoforms are the most explored in cancers, being overexpressed in many cancer types, from solid tumours to haematological malignancies. Similarly to what occurs in particular physiological settings, MCT1 and MCT4 are able to mediate lactate shuttles among cancer cells, and also between cancer and stromal cells in the tumour microenvironment. This form of metabolic cooperation is responsible for important cancer aggressiveness features, such as cell proliferation, survival, angiogenesis, migration, invasion, metastasis, immune tolerance and therapy resistance. The growing understanding of MCT functions and regulation is offering a new path to the design of novel inhibitors that can be foreseen in clinical practices. This review provides an overview of the role of MCT isoforms in cancer and summarizes the recent advances in their pharmacological targeting, highlighting the potential of new potent and selective MCT1 and/or MCT4 inhibitors in cancer therapeutics, and anticipating its inclusion in clinical practice.

Efficient production of a polyhydroxyalkanoate by Azotobacter vinelandii OP using apple residues as promising feedstock

Fruit residues are attractive substrates for the production of bacterial polyhydroxyalkanoates due to the high contents of fermentable sugars and the fast, simple, and efficient pretreatment methods required. In this study, apple residues, mainly apple peel, were used as the sole carbon source in cultures of the bacterium Azotobacter vinelandii OP to produce poly-3-hydroxybutyrate (P3HB). Conversion from the residue to total sugars was highly effective, achieving conversions of up to 65.4 % w w^-1 when using 1 % v v^-1 sulfuric acid and 58.3 % w w^-1 in the absence of acid (only water). The cultures were evaluated at the shake-flask scale and in 3-L bioreactors using a defined medium under nitrogen starvation conditions. The results showed the production of up to 3.94 g L^-1 P3HB in a bioreactor, reaching an accumulation of 67.3 % w w^-1 when using apple residues. For the PHB obtained from the cultures with apple residues, a melting point of 179.99 °C and a maximum degradation temperature of 274.64 °C were calculated. A P3HB production strategy is shown using easily hydrolysable fruit residues to achieve production yields comparable to those obtained with pure sugars under similar cultivation conditions.

Alloreactivity and autoreactivity converge to support B cell epitope targeting in transplant rejection

Antibody (Ab) responses against human leukocyte antigen (HLA) proteins mismatched between donor and recipient are leading cause of allograft loss in kidney transplantation. However, therapies targeting alloreactive B cell and Ab-secreting cell (ASC) are lacking, motivating the need to understand how to prevent and abrogate these alloresponses. Using molecular, structural, and proteomic techniques, we profiled the B cell response in a kidney transplant recipient with antibody-mediated rejection and graft loss. We found that this response spanned the rejected organ and peripheral blood, stimulated the differentiation of multiple B cell subsets, and produced a high-affinity, donor-specific, anti-HLA response. We found epitopic immunodominance that relied on highly exposed, solvent-accessible mismatched HLA residues as well as structural and biomolecular evidence of autoreactivity against the recipient's self-HLA allele. These alloreactive and autoreactive signatures converged in the recipient's circulating donor-specific Ab repertoire, suggesting that rejection requires both the recognition of non-self and breaches of tolerance to lead to alloinjury and graft loss.

Axatilimab for Chronic Graft-Versus-Host Disease After Failure of at Least Two Prior Systemic Therapies: Results of a Phase I/II Study

PURPOSE

Chronic graft-versus-host disease (cGVHD) remains the major cause of late morbidity after allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation. Colony-stimulating factor 1 receptor (CSF-1R)-dependent macrophages promote cGVHD fibrosis, and their elimination in preclinical studies ameliorated cGVHD. Axatilimab is a humanized monoclonal antibody that inhibits CSF-1R signaling and restrains macrophage development.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

This phase I (phI)/phase II (phII) open-label study (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT03604692) evaluated safety, tolerability, and efficacy of axatilimab in patients age ≥ 6 years with active cGVHD after ≥ 2 prior systemic therapy lines. Primary objectives in phI were to identify the optimal biologic and recommended phII dose and in phII to evaluate the overall (complete and partial) response rate (ORR) at the start of treatment cycle 7.

RESULTS

Forty enrolled patients (17 phI; 23 phII) received at least one axatilimab dose. In phI, a dose of 3 mg/kg given once every 4 weeks met the optimal biologic dose definition. Two dose-limiting toxicities occurred at the 3 mg/kg dose given once every 2 weeks. At least one treatment-related adverse event (TRAE) was observed in 30 patients with grade ≥ 3 TRAEs in eight patients, the majority known on-target effects of CSF-1R inhibition. No cytomegalovirus reactivations occurred. With the 50% ORR at cycle 7 day 1, the phII cohort met the primary efficacy end point. Furthermore, the ORR in the first six cycles, an end point supporting regulatory approvals, was 82%. Responses were seen in all affected organs regardless of prior therapy. Fifty-eight percent of patients reported significant improvement in cGVHD-related symptoms using the Lee Symptom Scale. On-target activity of axatilimab was suggested by the decrease in skin CSF-1R-expressing macrophages.

CONCLUSION

Targeting profibrotic macrophages with axatilimab is a therapeutically promising novel strategy with a favorable safety profile for refractory cGVHD.

A comprehensive review on the metal-based green valorized nanocomposite for the remediation of emerging colored organic waste

In today's era, "green" synthesis is an emerging research trend. It has gained widespread attention owing to its dynamic behavior, reliability, simplicity, sustainability, and environment friendly approach for fabricating various nanomaterials. Green fabrication of metal/metal oxides nanomaterials, hybrid materials, and other metal-based nanocomposite can be utilized to remove toxic colored aqueous pollutants. Nanomaterials synthesized by using green approach is considered to be the significant tool to minimize unwanted or harmful by-products otherwise released from traditional synthesis methods. Various kinds of biosynthesized nanomaterials, such as animal waste and plant-based, have been successfully applied and well documented in the literature. However, their application part, especially for the cure of colored organic polluted water, has not been reported as a single review article. Therefore, the current work aims to assemble reports on using novel biosynthesized green metal-based nanomaterials to exclude harmful dyes from polluted water.

Global survival trends for brain tumors, by histology: analysis of individual records for 556,237 adults diagnosed in 59 countries during 2000-2014 (CONCORD-3)

BACKGROUND

Survival is a key metric of the effectiveness of a health system in managing cancer. We set out to provide a comprehensive examination of worldwide variation and trends in survival from brain tumors in adults, by histology.

METHODS

We analyzed individual data for adults (15-99 years) diagnosed with a brain tumor (ICD-O-3 topography code C71) during 2000-2014, regardless of tumor behavior. Data underwent a 3-phase quality control as part of CONCORD-3. We estimated net survival for 11 histology groups, using the unbiased nonparametric Pohar Perme estimator.

RESULTS

The study included 556,237 adults. In 2010-2014, the global range in age-standardized 5-year net survival for the most common sub-types was broad: in the range 20%-38% for diffuse and anaplastic astrocytoma, from 4% to 17% for glioblastoma, and between 32% and 69% for oligodendroglioma. For patients with glioblastoma, the largest gains in survival occurred between 2000-2004 and 2005-2009. These improvements were more noticeable among adults diagnosed aged 40-70 years than among younger adults.

CONCLUSIONS

To the best of our knowledge, this study provides the largest account to date of global trends in population-based survival for brain tumors by histology in adults. We have highlighted remarkable gains in 5-year survival from glioblastoma since 2005, providing large-scale empirical evidence on the uptake of chemoradiation at population level. Worldwide, survival improvements have been extensive, but some countries still lag behind. Our findings may help clinicians involved in national and international tumor pathway boards to promote initiatives aimed at more extensive implementation of clinical guidelines.

The metabolic crosstalk between PIN1 and the tumour microenvironment

Peptidyl-prolyl cis-trans isomerase NIMA-interacting 1 (PIN1) is a member of a family of peptidyl-prolyl isomerases that specifically recognizes and binds phosphoproteins, catalyzing the rapid cis-trans isomerization of phosphorylated serine/threonine-proline motifs, which leads to changes in the structures and activities of the targeted proteins. Through this complex mechanism, PIN1 regulates many hallmarks of cancer including cell autonomous metabolism and the crosstalk with the cellular microenvironment. Many studies showed that PIN1 is largely overexpressed in cancer turning on a set of oncogenes and abrogating the function of tumor suppressor genes. Among these targets, recent evidence demonstrated that PIN1 is involved in lipid and glucose metabolism and accordingly, in the Warburg effect, a characteristic of tumor cells. As an orchestra master, PIN1 finely tunes the signaling pathways allowing cancer cells to adapt and take advantage from a poorly organized tumor microenvironment. In this review, we highlight the trilogy among PIN1, the tumor microenvironment and the metabolic program rewiring.

The menin inhibitor revumenib in KMT2A-rearranged or NPM1-mutant leukaemia

Targeting critical epigenetic regulators reverses aberrant transcription in cancer, thereby restoring normal tissue function1-3. The interaction of menin with lysine methyltransferase 2A (KMT2A), an epigenetic regulator, is a dependence in acute leukaemia caused by either rearrangement of KMT2A or mutation of the nucleophosmin 1 gene (NPM1)4-6. KMT2A rearrangements occur in up to 10% of acute leukaemias and have an adverse prognosis, whereas NPM1 mutations occur in up to 30%, forming the most common genetic alteration in acute myeloid leukaemia7,8. Here, we describe the results of the first-in-human phase 1 clinical trial investigating revumenib (SNDX-5613), a potent and selective oral inhibitor of the menin-KMT2A interaction, in patients with relapsed or refractory acute leukaemia (ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT04065399). We show that therapy with revumenib was associated with a low frequency of grade 3 or higher treatment-related adverse events and a 30% rate of complete remission or complete remission with partial haematologic recovery (CR/CRh) in the efficacy analysis population. Asymptomatic prolongation of the QT interval on electrocardiography was identified as the only dose-limiting toxicity. Remissions occurred in leukaemias refractory to multiple previous lines of therapy. We demonstrate clearance of residual disease using sensitive clinical assays and identify hallmarks of differentiation into normal haematopoietic cells, including differentiation syndrome. These data establish menin inhibition as a therapeutic strategy for susceptible acute leukaemia subtypes.

The menin inhibitor revumenib in KMT2A-rearranged or NPM1-mutant leukaemia

Targeting critical epigenetic regulators reverses aberrant transcription in cancer, thereby restoring normal tissue function^1-3. The interaction of menin with lysine methyltransferase 2A (KMT2A), an epigenetic regulator, is a dependence in acute leukaemia caused by either rearrangement of KMT2A or mutation of the nucleophosmin 1 gene (NPM1)^4-6. KMT2A rearrangements occur in up to 10% of acute leukaemias and have an adverse prognosis, whereas NPM1 mutations occur in up to 30%, forming the most common genetic alteration in acute myeloid leukaemia^7,8. Here, we describe the results of the first-in-human phase 1 clinical trial investigating revumenib (SNDX-5613), a potent and selective oral inhibitor of the menin-KMT2A interaction, in patients with relapsed or refractory acute leukaemia (ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT04065399). We show that therapy with revumenib was associated with a low frequency of grade 3 or higher treatment-related adverse events and a 30% rate of complete remission or complete remission with partial haematologic recovery (CR/CRh) in the efficacy analysis population. Asymptomatic prolongation of the QT interval on electrocardiography was identified as the only dose-limiting toxicity. Remissions occurred in leukaemias refractory to multiple previous lines of therapy. We demonstrate clearance of residual disease using sensitive clinical assays and identify hallmarks of differentiation into normal haematopoietic cells, including differentiation syndrome. These data establish menin inhibition as a therapeutic strategy for susceptible acute leukaemia subtypes.

A systematic review of library service quality studies: Models, dimensions, research populations and methods

The study systematically reviews the studies based on a search of published articles from 2010 to 2021 on library service quality with the aim of determining which models of service quality are the most commonly used by librarians as a means of measuring service quality. In addition, the paper makes an effort to determine the variety of dimensions by which these qualitative evaluations were carried out, the types of libraries that have reported such qualitative studies, and the data collection strategies (research population, sample size and data collection instruments) adopted by the authors. The findings indicate that the SERVQUAL and LibQual models are the most frequently adopted models. The empathy, reliability, tangible, assurance, responsiveness, effect of library, information control and library as place are the prominent dimensions. The researchers rely heavily on questionnaire-based survey research methods with sample sizes of less than 100 respondents, mostly reported in academic libraries.

G-quadruplex-mediated specific recognition, stabilization and transcriptional repression of bcl-2 by small molecule

The presence of the G-quadruplex (G4) structure in the promoter region of the human bcl-2 oncogenes makes it a promising target for developing anti-cancer therapeutics. Bcl-2 inhibits apoptosis, and its frequent overexpression in cancer cells contributes to tumor initiation, progression, and resistance to therapy. Small molecules that can specifically bind to bcl-2 G4 with high affinity and selectivity are remaining elusive. Here, we report that small molecule 1,3-bis-) furane-2yl-methylidene-amino) guanidine (BiGh) binds to bcl-2 G4 DNA structure with very high affinity and selectivity over other genomic G4 DNA structures and duplex DNA. BiGh stabilizes folded parallel conformation of bcl-2 G4 via non-covalent and electrostatic interactions and increases the thermal stabilization up to 15 °C. The ligand significantly suppresses the bcl-2 transcription in HeLa cells by a G4-dependent mechanism and induces cell cycle arrest which promotes apoptosis. The in silico ADME profiling confirms the potential 'drug-likeness' of BiGh. Our results showed that BiGh stabilizes the bcl-2 G-quadruplex motif, downregulates the bcl-2 gene transcription as well as translation process in cervical cancer cells, and exhibits potential anti-cancer activity. This work provides a potential platform for the development of lead compound(s) as G4 stabilizers with drug-like properties of BiGh for cancer therapeutics.

Personalized transcranial alternating current stimulation improves sleep quality: Initial findings

Insufficient sleep is a major health issue. Inadequate sleep is associated with an array of poor health outcomes, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, obesity, certain forms of cancer, Alzheimer's disease, depression, anxiety, and suicidality. Given concerns with typical sedative hypnotic drugs for treating sleep difficulties, there is a compelling need for alternative interventions. Here, we report results of a non-invasive electrical brain stimulation approach to optimizing sleep involving transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS). A total of 25 participants (mean age: 46.3, S.D. ± 12.4, 15 females) were recruited for a null-stimulation controlled (Control condition), within subjects, randomized crossed design, that included two variants of an active condition involving 15 min pre-sleep tACS stimulation. To evaluate the impact on sleep quality, the two active tACS stimulation conditions were designed to modulate sleep-dependent neural activity in the theta/alpha frequency bands, with both stimulation types applied to all subjects in separate sessions. The first tACS condition used a fixed stimulation pattern across all participants, a pattern composed of stimulation at 5 and 10 Hz. The second tACS condition used a personalized stimulation approach with the stimulation frequencies determined by each individual's peak EEG frequencies in the 4-6 Hz and 9-11 Hz bands. Personalized tACS stimulation increased sleep quantity (duration) by 22 min compared to a Control condition (p = 0.04), and 19 min compared to Fixed tACS stimulation (p = 0.03). Fixed stimulation did not significantly increase sleep duration compared to Control (mean: 3 min; p = 0.75). For sleep onset, the Personalized tACS stimulation resulted in reducing the onset by 28% compared to the Fixed tACS stimulation (6 min faster, p = 0.02). For a Poor Sleep sub-group (n = 13) categorized with Clinical Insomnia and a high insomnia severity, Personalized tACS stimulation improved sleep duration by 33 min compared to Fixed stimulation (p = 0.02), and 30 min compared to Control condition (p < 0.1). Together, these results suggest that Personalized stimulation improves sleep quantity and time taken to fall asleep relative to Control and Fixed stimulation providing motivation for larger-scale trials for Personalized tACS as a sleep therapeutic, including for those with insomnia.

Targeting Virus-Induced Reprogrammed Cell Metabolism via Glycolytic Inhibitors: An Effective Therapeutic Approach Against SARS-CoV-2

Reprogrammed cell metabolism has been observed in a wide range of virally infected cells. Viruses do not have their metabolism; they rely on the cellular metabolism of the host to ensure the energy and macromolecules requirement for replication. Like other viruses, Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) does not own its metabolism, but virus infected cells adopt aberrant cell metabolism. Infected viral use the energy and macromolecules to make their own copies; to do so, they need to increase the rate of metabolism to ensure the requirement of macromolecules. In contrast, the cellular metabolism of noninfected cells is more plastic than infected cells. Therefore, it is essential to examine the virus infection in the context of metabolic alterations of host cells. A novel therapeutic approach is urgently required to treat highly infectious COVID-19 disease and its pathogenesis. Interference of glucose metabolism might be a promising strategy to determine COVID-19 treatment options. Based on the recent research, this mini-review aims to understand the impact of reprogrammed cell metabolism in COVID-19 pathogenesis and explores the potential of targeting metabolic pathways with small molecules as a new strategy for the development of a novel drug to treat COVID-19 disease. This type of research line provides new hope in the development of antiviral drugs by targeting hijacked cell metabolism in case of viral diseases and also in COVID-19.

Moving the stakeholder journey forward

Though the customer journey (CJ) is gaining traction, its limited customer focus overlooks the dynamics characterizing other stakeholders' (e.g., employees'/suppliers') journeys, thus calling for an extension to the stakeholder journey (SJ). Addressing this gap, we advance the SJ, which covers any stakeholder's journey with the firm. We argue that firms' consideration of the SJ, defined as a stakeholder's trajectory of role-related touchpoints and activities, enacted through stakeholder engagement, that collectively shape the stakeholder experience with the firm, enhances their stakeholder relationship management and performance outcomes. We also view the SJ in a network of intersecting journeys that are characterized by interdependence theory's structural tenets of stakeholder control, covariation of interest, mutuality of dependence, information availability, and temporal journey structure, which we view to impact stakeholders' journey-based engagement and experience, as formalized in a set of Propositions. We conclude with theoretical (e.g., further research) and practical (e.g., SJ design/management) implications.

Measurements of the associated production of a W boson and a charm quark in proton-proton collisions at s = 8 TeV

Measurements of the associated production of a W boson and a charm ( c ) quark in proton-proton collisions at a centre-of-mass energy of 8 TeV are reported. The analysis uses a data sample corresponding to a total integrated luminosity of 19.7 fb - 1 collected by the CMS detector at the LHC. The W bosons are identified through their leptonic decays to an electron or a muon, and a neutrino. Charm quark jets are selected using distinctive signatures of charm hadron decays. The product of the cross section and branching fraction σ ( pp → W + c + X ) B ( W → ℓ ν ) , where ℓ = e or μ , and the cross section ratio σ ( pp → W + + c ¯ + X ) / σ ( pp → W - + c + X ) are measured in a fiducial volume and differentially as functions of the pseudorapidity and of the transverse momentum of the lepton from the W boson decay. The results are compared with theoretical predictions. The impact of these measurements on the determination of the strange quark distribution is assessed.

Influence of information source regarding COVID-19 knowledge among the undergraduate dental students during the early lockdown: a multi-national study

OBJECTIVE

To assess the influence of information sources on the knowledge regarding COVID-19 among undergraduate dental students in India, Saudi Arabia, Malaysia, and Turkey.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

An online questionnaire in a Google form link was circulated among the target population via various online platforms. It consisted of 14 close-ended questions assessing these students' knowledge and source of COVID-19-related information. SPSS software version 21.0 (IBM Corp., Armonk, NY, USA) was used to compute descriptive statistics, Chi-square test, independent t-test, and ANOVA tests for comparing various variables, and a p-value<0.05 was considered statistically significant.

RESULTS

The study yielded 809 responses from dental undergraduate students from India, Saudi Arabia, Malaysia, and Turkey. Dental students from Turkey reported a higher mean knowledge score of 7.91±1.34 and 7.88±0.58 for Malaysian dental students. In contrast, the lower scores were achieved by Saudi Arabia (7.36±1.22) and India (7.37±1.21) dental students, and the findings were statistically significant (p<0.05). The study population used various sources to attain information regarding COVID-19. Most respondents (63.1%) utilized information regarding COVID-19 from multiple sources rather than single sources (36.9%).

CONCLUSIONS

Reliable and validated information sources resulted in higher knowledge scores. Turkey and Malaysia dental students reported a higher mean knowledge score and the lowest for Saudi Arabia and India dental students. There is increased popularity of social media platforms as information sources.

Measured proton electromagnetic structure deviates from theoretical predictions

The visible world is founded on the proton, the only composite building block of matter that is stable in nature. Consequently, understanding the formation of matter relies on explaining the dynamics and the properties of the proton's bound state. A fundamental property of the proton involves the response of the system to an external electromagnetic field. It is characterized by the electromagnetic polarizabilities¹ that describe how easily the charge and magnetization distributions inside the system are distorted by the electromagnetic field. Moreover, the generalized polarizabilities² map out the resulting deformation of the densities in a proton subject to an electromagnetic field. They disclose essential information about the underlying system dynamics and provide a key for decoding the proton structure in terms of the theory of the strong interaction that binds its elementary quark and gluon constituents. Of particular interest is a puzzle in the electric generalized polarizability of the proton that remains unresolved for two decades². Here we report measurements of the proton's electromagnetic generalized polarizabilities at low four-momentum transfer squared. We show evidence of an anomaly to the behaviour of the proton's electric generalized polarizability that contradicts the predictions of nuclear theory and derive its signature in the spatial distribution of the induced polarization in the proton. The reported measurements suggest the presence of a new, not-yet-understood dynamical mechanism in the proton and present notable challenges to the nuclear theory.