Global Challenges Research Articles

THE INFLUENCE OF GLOBAL TRENDS ON THE FORMATION OF YOUTH VALUES

This article is a comprehensive study of the impact of modern global trends on the formation of values among young people. The authors focus on the influence of information technology and social media on the formation of cultural preferences of the younger generation. Special attention is paid to global environmental challenges and social inequalities, as well as their impact on the values of young people.The article reveals how global changes in the socio-cultural environment affect the value orientations of young people. Key factors such as active participation in social movements and the development of environmental awareness are analyzed. The research provides practical and theoretical insights to understand the evolution of value systems of modern youth in the context of global challenges. The results obtained can be useful for the formation of effective strategies for education and interaction with youth communities, given their unique impact on the formation of future leaders and active citizens.

Curcumol effectively improves obesity through GDF15 induction via activation of endoplasmic reticulum stress response

The escalating prevalence of obesity presents a formidable global health challenge, underscoring the imperative for efficacious pharmacotherapeutic interventions. However, current anti-obesity medications often exhibit limited efficacy and adverse effects, necessitating the exploration of alternative therapeutic approaches. Growth differentiation factor 15 (GDF15) has emerged as a promising target for obesity management, given its crucial role in appetite control and metabolic regulation. In this study, we aimed to investigate the efficacy of curcumol, a sesquiterpene compound derived from plants of the Zingiberaceae family, in obesity treatment. Our findings demonstrate that curcumol effectively induces the expression of GDF15 through the activation of the endoplasmic reticulum stress pathway. To confirm the role of GDF15 as a critical target for curcumol’s function, we compared the effects of curcumol in wild-type mice and Gdf15-knockout mice. Using a high-fat diet-induced obese murine model, we observed that curcumol led to reduced appetite and altered dietary preferences mediated by GDF15. Furthermore, chronic curcumol intervention resulted in promising anti-obesity effects. Additionally, curcumol administration improved glucose tolerance and lipid metabolism in the obese mice. These findings highlight the potential of curcumol as a GDF15 inducer and suggest innovative strategies for managing obesity and its associated metabolic disorders. In conclusion, our study provides evidence for the efficacy of curcumol in obesity treatment by inducing GDF15 expression. The identified effects of curcumol on appetite regulation, dietary preferences, glucose tolerance, and lipid metabolism emphasize its potential as a therapeutic agent for combating obesity and related metabolic disorders.

Revolutionizing the Future of Hydrological Science: Impact of Machine Learning and Deep Learning amidst Emerging Explainable AI and Transfer Learning

Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML), and Deep Learning (DL) are revolutionizing hydrology, driving significant advancements in water resource management, modeling, and prediction. This review synthesizes cutting-edge developments, methodologies, and applications of AI-ML-DL across key hydrological processes. By critically evaluating these techniques against traditional models, we highlight their superior ability to capture complex, nonlinear relationships and adapt to diverse environments. We further explore AI applications in precipitation forecasting, evapotranspiration estimation, groundwater dynamics, and extreme event prediction (floods, droughts, and compound events), showcasing their timely potential in addressing critical water-related challenges. A particular emphasis is placed on Explainable AI (XAI) and transfer learning as essential tools for improving model transparency and applicability, enabling broader stakeholder trust and cross-regional adaptability. The review also addresses persistent challenges, including data limitations, computational demands, and model interpretability, proposing solutions that integrate emerging technologies like quantum computing, the Internet of Things (IoT), and interdisciplinary collaboration. This review charts a strategic course for future research and practice by bridging AI advancements with practical hydrological applications. Our findings highlight the importance of embracing AI-driven approaches for next-generation hydrological modeling and provide actionable understandings for researchers, practitioners, and policymakers. As hydrology faces escalating challenges due to human-induced climate change and growing water demands, the continued evolution of AI-integrated models and innovations in data handling and stakeholder engagement will be imperative. In conclusion, the findings emphasize the critical role of AI-driven hydrological modeling in addressing global water challenges, including climate change adaptation, sustainable water resource management, and disaster risk reduction.

Genomic insights for personalised care in lung cancer and smoking cessation: motivating at-risk individuals toward evidence-based health practices

Lung cancer and tobacco use pose significant global health challenges, necessitating a comprehensive translational roadmap for improved prevention strategies such as cancer screening and tobacco treatment, which are currently under-utilised. Polygenic risk scores (PRSs) may further motivate health behaviour change in primary care for lung cancer in diverse populations. In this work, we introduce the GREAT care paradigm, which integrates PRSs within comprehensive patient risk profiles to motivate positive health behaviour changes. We developed PRSs using large-scale multi-ancestry genome-wide association studies and standardised PRS distributions across all ancestries. We validated our PRSs in 561,776 individuals of diverse ancestry from the GISC Trial, UK Biobank (UKBB), and All of Us Research Program (AoU). Significant odds ratios (ORs) for lung cancer and difficulty quitting smoking were observed in both UKBB and AoU. For lung cancer, the ORs for individuals in the highest risk group (top 20% versus bottom 20%) were 1.85 (95% CI: 1.58-2.18) in UKBB and 2.39 (95% CI: 1.93-2.97) in AoU. For difficulty quitting smoking, the ORs (top 33% versus bottom 33%) were 1.36 (95% CI: 1.32-1.41) in UKBB and 1.32 (95% CI: 1.28-1.36) in AoU. Our PRS-based intervention model leverages large-scale genetic data for robust risk assessment across populations, which will be evaluated in two cluster-randomised clinical trials. This approach integrates genomic insights into primary care, promising improved outcomes in cancer prevention and tobacco treatment. National Institutes of Health, NIH Intramural Research Program, National Science Foundation.

Polyribonucleotide Phosphorylase is overexpressed in Hepatocellular Cancer, promoting epithelial phenotype maintenance and tumor progression

Liver cancer, particularly hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), is a major global health challenge, largely associated with cirrhosis caused by various factors. Prognosis is often guided by molecular and histological classifications. In this study, expression of Polyribonucleotide Phosphorylase (PNPT1) in HCC was investigated to better understand its role in tumor behavior and patient outcomes. The expression of the corresponding protein PNPase was assessed in HCC tissue samples using immunohistochemistry, while RNA-seq data from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) were analyzed via OncoDB. Additionally, PNPT1 silencing in HepG2 cells was followed by gene and protein expression analysis. The results revealed that PNPT1 is overexpressed in HCC tumors, particularly in those expressing E-cadherin. Notably, silencing PNPT1 in HepG2 cells triggered a shift towards a mesenchymal phenotype. In HCC tissues, PNPT1 expression was linked to markers of epithelial phenotype, oxidative stress, and poor prognosis, especially in non-viral HCC cases. These findings suggest that PNPase may play a crucial role in the progression of well-differentiated HCC tumors, serving as a poor prognostic biomarker.

Bicalutamide Reveals Immunomodulatory Effects in Prostate Cancer by Regulating Immunogenic Dendritic Cell Maturation

Prostate cancer poses a significant global health challenge, ranking as the second most prevalent and fifth most lethal malignancy among males. The intricate interplay between androgen signaling and the immune microenvironment underscores the complexity of prostate cancer progression. Notably, androgen receptor (AR) signaling has been shown to affect immune response mediated by tumor antigen-presenting dendritic cells (DCs). Therefore, this study aimed to explore the potential of Bicalutamide, a nonsteroidal anti-androgen, in modulating DCs-mediated immune responses. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were isolated, and monocytes were extracted, followed by their differentiation into immature dendritic cells (iDCs) using GM-CSF and IL-4. Harvested tumor cell lysates from human prostate cancer cells were then utilized to induce the transformation of iDCs into mature dendritic cells (mDCs). Then, mDCs were treated with non-toxic concentration of Bicalutamide determined by annexin V/PI assay. The morphological characteristics of mDCs were investigated using an inverted light microscope. Flow cytometry was used to determine the cell surface expression of molecular markers of DC maturation, and qRT-PCR was employed to evaluate expression levels of proinflammatory genes involved in DC maturation. The obtained results indicated that Bicalutamide treatment of monocyte-derived mDCs induces an immunogenic and matured phenotype, marked by increased expression of CD86 and HLA-DR. Besides, qRT-PCR results evidenced that Bicalutamide decreased the expression of anti-inflammatory genes, including Interleukin-10 (IL-10) and TGF-beta, as an indication of immunogenic DCs. These findings suggest that beyond its established anti-androgen role, Bicalutamide may exert anti-tumor effects through the modulation of DCs-mediated immune responses. This novel immunomodulatory feature holds promise for the development of novel therapies, including combination therapies, in prostate cancer treatment.

Peracetic acid treatment for removing steroid hormones in a pilot-scale wastewater installation

The global water scarcity challenge urges sustainable solutions such as wastewater reuse, which is crucial to alleviate pressure on dwindling freshwater sources. However, this approach must address the presence of emerging pollutants (EPs), demanding specific treatment processes to ensure water safety and environmental protection. Peracetic acid (PAA) has garnered global interest due to its high oxidation potential and production of low-toxicity byproducts, making it a promising alternative for wastewater decontamination. This study aimed to assess PAA efficacy in removing three EPs: estrone (E1), 17β-estradiol (E2), and 17α-ethinylestradiol (EE2). Conducted in a pilot-scale wastewater treatment facility using real wastewater, the study explored six operational conditions, with varying PAA concentrations (5 mg/L to 15 mg/L) and hydraulic retention times (HRT) of 5, 10, and 15 min. Control parameters were monitored throughout the study. The condition with 15 mg/L PAA and 15 min HRT was the most efficient achieving over 85 % removal efficiency for all three compounds. The condition with 15 mg/L PAA and 10 min HRT was less efficient, achieving 70 % removal for E1 and 60 % and 44 % for E2 and EE2, respectively. A Spearman correlation matrix identified temperature and E. coli as strongly correlated with EPs removal, potentially influencing PAA decay. Overall, PAA demonstrated effective removal of target EPs under real wastewater conditions, underscoring its viability as a sustainable alternative for enhancing wastewater treatment processes, contributing to environmental protection and public health. Future studies could explore the long-term efficiency of PAA application and its scalability.

Wood-based phase change energy storage composite material with reversible thermochromic properties

With the continuous increase in global energy demand and environmental challenges, the efficient utilization and storage of energy have become critical areas of scientific research. This study presents the preparation and performance assessment of a wood-based phase change composite (TPW) with reversible thermochromic properties. Thermogravimetric analysis (TG) confirmed thermal stability across 26 °C to 270 °C, while differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) demonstrated that TPW has good thermal cycling performance, and suitable phase change temperature at about 34 °C. Thermal insulation tests showed that TPW can reduce heat exchange between inside and outside environment, maintaining the internal temperature for longer time. Below the transition temperature, the material displays a bluish-purple color, transitioning to light yellow upon heating, with a notable color difference (ΔE⁎) increase from 3.46 to 67.89. Since the phase transition temperature close to human body temperature, enhances TPW’s compatibility for applications in home decor, temperature indicators, and anti-counterfeit labeling. This research contributes novel insights and foundational data for advancing wood-based functional materials in sustainable applications.

Identification of FOXM1 as a novel protein biomarker and therapeutic target for colorectal cancer progression: Evidence from immune infiltration and bioinformatic analyses

Colorectal cancer (CRC) remains a major global health challenge, with its underlying molecular mechanisms, particularly the role of FOXM1, not yet fully understood. This study employed an integrated approach combining bioinformatics along with experimental validation to explore the role of FOXM1 in CRC. Using advanced computational tools and experimental techniques, we aimed to clarify the biological significance of FOXM1 and its potential impact on CRC progression and treatment. Bioinformatic analyses, including pan-cancer views, mRNA expression analysis, immune infiltrations, pathway enrichment, and functional annotations, highlighted the oncogenic potential of FOXM1 in CRC. Protein and gene expression analyses (western blot and qPCR) were conducted in HCT-116 and HT-29 cells. Platforms like GEPIA and UALCAN confirmed the diagnostic relevance of FOXM1, showing upregulated mRNA expression across various stages and metastasis. The influence of FOXM1 on immune cells, particularly CD4+, CD8+, and B cells, was significant, as revealed by immunohistochemistry. Protein-protein interaction analysis through STRING and CYTOSCAPE identified genes closely linked to FOXM1 in CRC. KEGG pathway enrichment suggested FOXM1's involvement in the p53 pathway, reinforcing its role in oncogenesis. Experimental validation confirmed elevated FOXM1 expression in HCT-116 and HT-29 cells. In summary, this study indicates that targeting FOXM1 could be a promising therapeutic strategy in CRC, emphasizing its importance in the molecular landscape of cancer progression.

Harnessing waste for sustainable construction: A novel synthesizing activators from waste for one-part geopolymer concrete and evaluating its fracture toughness

Geopolymer concrete garners significant attention due to its potential to mitigate pressing global challenges, such as CO2 emissions and waste management for disposal. However, using more expensive commercial activators has posed a significant obstacle to practical implementation. Therefore, scientists want to develop methods to extract powdered activators from agricultural and industrial waste materials. To this end, the study has sought to create innovative activators derived from waste glass powder (WGP) and silica-rich rice husk ash (RHA) to create one-part geopolymer concrete (OPGC). Ground granulated blast-furnace slag is utilized as a precursor material for preparing binder, with varying ratios of WGP/RHA to sodium hydroxide (NaOH) from 0.50 to 1.75 at 0.25 intervals. Twenty-four distinct mixtures of OPGC were prepared using the materials mentioned above and evaluated for their compressive strength and fracture toughness. The primary objective of this research is to evaluate the mode I, III, and I/III fracture toughness of OPGC using edge-notched disc bend specimens. Additionally, a 1 % steel fiber dosage was introduced into the OPGC to reduce brittleness. The microstructural characteristics were examined through X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy. Findings reveal that the fracture toughness of OPGC improves with the RHA to NaOH ratio up to 1.0, peaking at 1.09 MPa·m^0.5. Likewise, the fracture toughness increases with the WGP to NaOH ratio up to 0.75, reaching a peak value of 1.20 MPa·m^0.5. Beyond these respective ratios, a decrease in fracture toughness was observed. Nonetheless, incorporating fibers into OPGC consistently improved the fracture toughness across all mixtures. Mode I fracture toughness is greater than I/III and III, emphasizing the significance of Mode III compared to other fracture modes.

Life-cycle cost assessment of hull protection technologies considering their effect on the environmental friendliness of fishing vessels

Biofouling represents a global challenge for the maritime industry, affecting vessel performance and environmental footprint. This paper analyses various antifouling technologies to reduce the vessel's environmental impact and its operating costs by reduced fuel consumption and less frequent dry-docking. It evaluates both passive and active technologies – passive referring to antifouling coatings and active involving systems that continuously prevent biofouling using energy. The methodology employs mathematical models to quantify the additional resistance and emissions caused by biofouling. Using the case of a fishing vessel operating in the Adriatic Sea, operational features and potential economic and environmental benefits resulting implementing an innovative biofouling protection system are analysed. Economic analysis includes a comprehensive cost structure, investment details, maintenance and operating costs, and possible future carbon taxation scenarios. The research indicates that active antifouling protection is more efficient than passive protection, including a potential reduction of the required power of up to 120 kW, leading to decreased fuel consumption and lower environmental impact, particularly at higher speeds. Despite higher initial investments, life-cycle cost analysis favours active protection systems.

Strategic approaches to crisis management: The global challenges of the pandemic on the Turkish container shipping industry

The Covid-19 pandemic has posed significant challenges to the sector, and Türkiye’s strategic location plays a crucial role in crisis management. This study aims to explore the repercussions of the pandemic on the sector and propose appropriate solutions. To identify the most effective solutions for prioritizing the challenges posed by Covid-19, 53 sector experts participated in the study. The Stepwise Weight Assessment Ratio Analysis method was used to weigh the criteria representing these challenges. The solutions were ranked using the Weighted Aggregated Sum Product Assessment and Combined Compromise Solution methods. The results indicate that the primary challenge is the increased shipping cost, followed by the prolongation of the transport time, global-scale impacts, and port congestion. The most appropriate solution identified was alternative vessel loading, followed by mixed-mode transportation usage, reservation guarantees, long-term contracts with shipping operators, integrated logistics services, container purchases, and technological integration

Resveratrol: Protective Agent Against Alzheimer's Disease.

Resveratrol is a biologically active natural phenolic plant product. It has several properties which make them useful to treat the disease. In this review, we have highlighted the neuroprotective effects of resveratrol. Several available animal models have been proven to help understand the disease pathway and mechanism of action by resveratrol. In this review, we have highlighted the neuroprotective activity of resveratrol in AD, which effectively counter the neurodegenerative disease by decreasing the formation of plaques. Resveratrol is a natural plant product that is easily available, cost-effective, and possesses neuroprotective activity, which is useful for treating neurodegenerative diseases. Resveratrol presents a promising avenue for AD treatment due to its diverse neuroprotective mechanisms. Given the ongoing global challenge in treating AD, researchers have increasingly focused on exploring the therapeutic potential of resveratrol.

The role of regulatory agencies in public health emergencies: A critical review of global approaches and challenges

Regulatory agencies play a pivotal role in public health emergencies by ensuring that medical products, including vaccines, diagnostics, and therapeutics, are rapidly available while maintaining safety and efficacy standards. The COVID-19 pandemic, along with past crises such as the Ebola and Zika outbreaks, exposed both strengths and vulnerabilities in global regulatory frameworks. This paper critically reviews the role of regulatory agencies in public health emergencies, synthesizing existing literature to present new insights into their operational challenges and the reliance strategies employed to bridge capacity gaps. By examining case studies, such as the reliance on the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the European Medicines Agency (EMA) by low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), this paper highlights the importance of global cooperation and reliance mechanisms in managing crises. Furthermore, it addresses challenges such as resource constraints, disparities in regulatory capacity, and ethical dilemmas faced when approving products based on limited data. The paper also explores the future direction of regulatory science, emphasizing the need for greater global regulatory convergence, capacity building, and the adoption of innovative digital tools. Ultimately, the paper argues that while reliance strategies are vital, long-term investment in national regulatory systems and global harmonization efforts are essential for a more equitable and effective response to future public health emergencies.

Advancing prognostic precision in gastric cancer with an immunoinflammatory index

Gastric cancer remains a major global health challenge with high morbidity and mortality rates. Recent advancements in immunology and inflammation research have highlighted the crucial roles that these biological processes play in tumor progression and patient outcomes. This has sparked new interest in developing prognostic biomarkers that integrate these two key biological processes. In this letter, we discuss the recent study by Ba et al , which proposed a novel prognostic immunoinflammatory index for patients with gastric cancer. We underscore the importance of this research, its potential impact on medical practice, and the prospective avenues for further investigation in this rapidly emerging area of study.

SGLT2 inhibitors in the prevention of diabetic cardiomyopathy: Targeting the silent threat

Heart failure (HF) is a major global health challenge, particularly among individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), who are at significantly higher risk of developing HF. Diabetic cardiomyopathy, a unique form of heart disease, often progresses silently until advanced stages. Recent research has focused on sodium-dependent glucose transporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2i), originally developed for hyperglycemia, which have shown potential in reducing cardiovascular risks, including HF hospitalizations, irrespective of diabetic status. In this editorial we comment on the article by Grubić Rotkvić et al published in the recent issue of the World Journal of Cardiology. The investigators examined the effects of SGLT2i on myocardial function in T2DM patients with asymptomatic HF, finding significant improvements in stroke volume index and reductions in systemic vascular resistance, suggesting enhanced cardiac output. Additionally, SGLT2i demonstrated anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, as well as blood pressure reduction, though the study’s limitations—such as small sample size and observational design—necessitate larger randomized trials to confirm these findings. The study underscores the potential of early intervention with SGLT2i in preventing HF progression in T2DM patients.

Innovative Strategy for Rainwater Harvesting in Saline-affected Urban Areas: A Case Study of a Sports Complex in Delhi

Water scarcity remains a critical global challenge, requiring immediate, sustainable management strategies, particularly in areas with an increasing disparity between water supply and demand. In India, and especially in Delhi, this issue is acute. In response to growing environmental concerns and the urgent need for sustainable water resource management, rainwater harvesting has emerged as a practical and effective solution for water conservation. This study investigates the application of rainwater harvesting to sustainably support water needs for a sports complex located in a salinity affected region. The land, originally intended for agriculture, has been converted into a complex featuring hydro-landscape facilities, including swimming pools, water polo areas, diving pools, toddler pools, and leisure pools. These facilities require an initial water input of 6,754.5 m³ and an annual replenishment of 7,957.28 m³ due to evaporation and seepage. By calculating the total rainwater harvesting potential based on the runoff coefficient, annual rainfall intensity, and the complex's catchment area, the study reveals that 29,693.8 m³ of rainwater can be harvested annually, providing a surplus of 14,981.7 m³ of potable water. This analysis demonstrates the viability of designing sports complexes in saline areas using efficient land use and rainwater harvesting, and presenting a scalable model for sustainable water management in similar regions worldwide.

Chemical Composition, Bioactivities, and Applications of Spirulina (Limnospira platensis) in Food, Feed, and Medicine

Spirulina (Limnospira platensis) is a microalga recognised for its rich nutritional composition and diverse bioactive compounds, making it a valuable functional food, feed, and therapeutic agent. This review examines spirulina’s chemical composition, including its high levels of protein, essential fatty acids, vitamins, minerals, and bioactive compounds, such as the phycocyanin pigment, polysaccharides, and carotenoids, in food, feed, and medicine. These compounds exhibit various biological activities, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, antiviral, anticancer, antidiabetic and lipid-lowering effects. Spirulina’s potential to mitigate oxidative stress, enhance immune function, and inhibit tumour growth positions it as a promising candidate for preventing chronic diseases. Additionally, spirulina is gaining interest in the animal feed sector as a promotor of growth performance, improving immune responses and increasing resistance to diseases in livestock, poultry, and aquaculture. Despite its well-documented health benefits, future research is needed to optimize production/cultivation methods, improve its bioavailability, and validate its efficacy (dose–effect relationship) and safety through clinical trials and large-scale human trials. This review underscores the potential of spirulina to address global health and nutrition challenges, supporting its continued application in food, feed, and medicine.

NÚMERO DE CIRURGIAS ONCOLÓGICAS NO BRASIL NOS ÚLTIMOS 10 ANOS E O PAPEL DA ANESTESIA NA PREVENÇÃO DA RECORRÊNCIA TUMORAL DO CÂNCER DE MAMA

Cancer represents one of the major global public health challenges, being the second leading cause of death after cardiovascular diseases. In 2020, the World Health Organization (WHO) recorded approximately 20 million new cases and around 10 million cancer deaths worldwide. In Brazil, breast cancer is the most frequent among women, with an estimated 73,610 new cases annually for the period from 2023 to 2025, representing a significant impact on the healthcare system. Oncologic surgery is essential in cancer management, especially for solid tumors, and is often complemented by chemotherapy, radiotherapy, or hormone therapy. However, studies indicate that the perioperative environment, including anesthesia, may influence tumor progression and disease recurrence, particularly in the context of breast cancer. In recent years, evidence has emerged suggesting that anesthesia, especially the anesthetic agents used, may play an important role in modulating the perioperative immune environment, potentially influencing cancer progression and recurrence. Nevertheless, the evidence remains inconsistent, and further studies are needed to clarify the direct impact of anesthesia on breast cancer recurrence and other types of cancer. The aim of this study is to review the epidemiology of oncologic surgery in Brazil over the past 10 years and to discuss the role of anesthesia in this context, focusing on surgical procedures related to breast cancer and the discussion of anesthetics in relation to tumor recurrence.

A self-eliminating allelic-drive reverses insecticide resistance in Drosophila leaving no transgene in the population

AbstractInsecticide resistance (IR) poses a significant global challenge to public health and welfare. Here, we develop a locally-acting unitary self-eliminating allelic-drive system, inserted into the Drosophila melanogaster yellow (y) locus. The drive cassette encodes both Cas9 and a single gRNA to bias inheritance of the favored wild-type (1014 L) allele over the IR (1014 F) variant of the voltage-gated sodium ion channel (vgsc) target locus. When enduring a fitness cost, this transiently-acting drive can increase the frequency of the wild-type allele to 100%, depending on its seeding ratio, before being eliminated from the population. However, in a fitness-neutral “hover” mode, the drive maintains a constant frequency in the population, completely converting IR alleles to wild-type, even at low initial seeding ratios.