Significant Contributor Research Articles

Identification of PANoptosis-related genes for idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis by machine learning and molecular subtype analysis

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a severe interstitial lung disease characterized by a grim prognosis, in which various forms of cell death are significant contributors to its development. The objective of this study is to explore diagnostic biomarkers and molecular subtypes associated with PANoptosis in IPF, and to develop reliable diagnostic models based on PANoptosis-related mechanisms. The peripheral blood transcriptomic data of IPF from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database and PANoptosis-related genes from the GeneCards database were utilized to conduct differential gene expression analysis and weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA), identifying PANoptosis-related differentially expressed genes (PDEGs). We yielded 9 PDEGs and employed machine learning algorithms to identify 3 key diagnostic biomarkers for PANoptosis in IPF: MMP9, FCMR, NIBAN3. Consensus clustering algorithm was applied to recognize two PANoptosis-related subtypes. Cluster 1 exhibited higher abundance of adaptive immune response cells and significant enrichment in DNA damage and repair-related pathways. Cluster 2 exhibited greater prevalence of innate immune response cells and predominant enhancement in pathways related to lipid cholesterol metabolism and vascular remodeling. Diagnostic models were developed with the aid of clinical decision-making and a novel approach to the diagnosis and treatment for IPF.

NIR-Actuated Botanicals/Nanozymes Nanofibrous Membranes for Antibiotic-Free Triple-Synergistic Therapy Against Polymicrobial Wound Infections.

Polymicrobial wound infection represents a significant contributor to infectious disease-related morbidity and mortality globally. Traditionally, the management of such infection relies heavily on high doses of antibiotics, often resulting in systemic side effects and exacerbating antibiotic resistance. Consequently, there is an urgent need to develop a safe and effective platform for antibiotic-free treatment of polymicrobial wound infections. In this study, a near-infrared (NIR) light-actuated nanofibrous membrane incorporating botanicals and nanozymes is presented for antibiotic-free triple-synergistic therapy against polymicrobial wound infections. The membrane integrates berberine hydrochloride (BBH)-loaded hollow zinc-doped carbon nanocubes into polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) nanofibrous membranes. Upon low-intensity 808nm NIR laser irradiation (0.3Wcm-2), the membrane achieved a controlled release of BBH and enhanced peroxidase-like (POD-like) enzyme activity. This NIR light-actuated botanical/photothermal therapy (PTT)/chemodynamic therapy (CDT) system demonstrated high efficacy in eradicating methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa both in vitro and in vivo. Furthermore, it mitigated inflammation and promoted wound healing in polymicrobial infection wounds, highlighting its potential as a promising alternative to antibiotic-based therapies.

Patterns of refractive errors and visual function in school-going children in South Africa

Background: Uncorrected refractive error is the most significant contributor of VI in children and is usually detected through vision screenings or scheduled eye and vision examinations conducted among school children.Aim: To describe patterns of refractive errors (RE), visual function and amblyopia in school-going children.Setting: Mankweng, Polokwane, South Africa.Methods: Retrospective chart reviews were conducted on 837 clinical record cards of children attending selected schools and who were screened between 2019 and 2021 at the University of Limpopo Optometry clinic. Purposive sampling was used to sample the clinical record cards.Results: About 134 children (16%) reported blurred vision, 197 (23.5%) failed distance visual acuity screening, while 173 (20.7%) had RE. Myopia among 168 (9.6%) children was the most common RE, followed by astigmatism and hyperopia at 60 (4.70%) and 28 (4.4%), respectively. Furthermore, 14 (1.7%) children had anisometropia. Amblyopia, colour vision deficiency and contrast sensitivity were also detected at prevalence rates of 4.4%, 9.8% and 8.2%, respectively.Conclusion: Vision screenings and regular comprehensive eye examinations are commonly conducted to detect and manage REs to prevent or delay the onset of amblyopia and strabismus. Children had a high prevalence of RE and amblyopia, which is similar to global estimates.Contribution: To describe the pattern of REs, amblyopia and visual function, which is critical to understand the prevalence of amblyopia and associated conditions. Knowing the patterns of these conditions may provide an impetus for the implementation of strategies such as vision screenings and vision examinations in schools.

Analisa Peran UMKM Terhadap Perkembangan Ekonomi di Indonesia

Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) are productive businesses owned by individuals or single business entities and qualify as micro-enterprises. SMEs are businesses that operate independently and have no direct or indirect links to medium or large-scale companies. This study aims to determine the role of SMEs in participating in building the Indonesian economy. The research method used is the Literature review research method which is carried out by searching, collecting, and analyzing data sources from various previously published scientific works. From the results of this study, SMEs in Indonesia play a very important role in the economy, functioning as job providers, supporters of local products, and significant contributors to GDP. As well as being a supporter of the stability of the Indonesian economy. SMEs also experienced development from 2020 - 2023. Where when Indonesia experienced the Covid-19 pandemic, the economy that occurred this year decreased drastically so that several SMEs suffered losses. But in 2021 the Indonesian economy began to experience a slow increase.

Pertussis is still not a completely controlled infection

The lecture focuses on pertussis, an infection managed by specific preventive measures, which continues to threaten both child and maternal health, as well as overall healthcare system. Despite high vaccination rates, pertussis remains an “under-controlled” infection and a significant contributor to childhood morbidity and mortality. Moreover, in many countries, the incidence of pertussis is clearly rising among both children and adults, with a notable proportion of cases occurring in vaccinated individuals. This increase may be associated with changes in the antigenic structure of the pathogen, the limited duration of post-vaccination immunity, reduced vaccination coverage, and the use of more sensitive laboratory diagnostic methods. The lecture addresses modern aspects of the etiopathogenesis, epidemiology, clinical presentation, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of pertussis. Given the rising incidence of this infection in Russia and several other countries in 2023, the information presented will be especially valuable for practitioners, particularly family doctors.

Impact of metals exposure on lung function and serum club cell secretory protein among schoolchildren: A mixture and mediation analysis

Particulate matter (PM) and its harmful components are significant contributors to respiratory diseases and impaired lung function, especially in children. Club cell secretory protein (CC16) is a maker of lung epithelium or club cell injuries. To date, the relationship between metals related with PM and CC16 and lung function impairment has been overlooked in children. We enrolled 603 schoolchildren exposed to different levels of PM in China. We found per doubling increase, urinary thallium, and iron was associated with a 3.42 % (95 % CI: 0.01, 6.72) and 3.09 % (95 % CI: 0.55, 5.56) decrease of serum CC16, respectively, whereas urinary cadmium was associated with a 4.74 % (95 % CI: 1.29, 8.31) increase of serum CC16. The Bayesian kernel machine regression (BKMR) model confirmed these associations and showed a potential synergistic interaction between thallium and cadmium. Urinary metal mixtures were associated with lower CC16 when they were below the 35th percentile compared with their median. Serum CC16 mediated 11.47 % (95 % CI: 0.06, 45.00) of the association between urinary thallium and FEV1/FVC decline. The inverted U-shaped association with CC16 and the mediation role of CC16 on associations with lung function provide insight into the mechanisms underlying lung injury induced by metals related with PM.

SCYL1-mediated regulation of the mTORC1 signaling pathway inhibits autophagy and promotes gastric cancer metastasis

BackgroundThe SCY1-like (SCYL) family has been reported to be closely related to cancer metastasis, but it has not been reported in gastric cancer (GC), and its specific mechanism is not clear.MethodsWe utilized databases like Deepmap, TCGA, and GEO to identify SCYL1's role in GC. Clinical samples were analyzed for SCYL1 expression and its correlation with patient prognosis. In vitro and in vivo experiments were conducted to assess SCYL1's function in GC cell migration, invasion, and autophagy.ResultsSCYL1 showed an increased expression in GC tissues, which correlated with a negative prognosis. In vitro experiments demonstrated that SCYL1 promotes GC cell migration and invasion and inhibits autophagy. GSEA indicated an inverse relationship between SCYL1 and autophagy, while a direct relationship was observed with the mTORC1 signaling pathway. Knockdown of SCYL1 enhanced autophagy, while activation of mTORC1 reversed this effect.ConclusionsSCYL1 is a significant contributor to GC progression, promoting metastasis by activating the mTORC1 signaling pathway and inhibiting autophagy. These findings suggest SCYL1 as a potential therapeutic target for GC treatment.

Green logistics: Transforming supply chains for a sustainable future

In the face of escalating climate change and the increasing significance of sustainability, companies are shifting towards green logistics solutions. This article explores the various sustainable practices within logistics, the implementation of green logistics solutions, and the strategies for reducing carbon footprints. The logistics sector, a significant contributor to global greenhouse gas emissions, is under increasing pressure to adopt environmentally friendly practices. By examining case studies and industry data, we provide a comprehensive analysis of the current trends and future directions in sustainable logistics. Our study highlights the importance of integrating eco-friendly transportation, energy-efficient warehousing, sustainable packaging, and advanced inventory management systems. Additionally, we discuss the challenges companies face in adopting green logistics, such as high initial costs, technological limitations, and regulatory compliance. Through this analysis, we aim to shed light on the transformative potential of green logistics in mitigating climate change and promoting long-term sustainability in the supply chain industry.

Characterizing indoor air quality and identifying factors influencing air quality at home microenvironment in Dhaka city

In low- and middle-income countries, indoor air pollution stands as a significant contributor to morbidity and mortality, prompting research into the factors influencing exposure at home in urban environments. Thus, this study was designed to investigate the indoor air quality and identifying factors influencing indoor air quality which help in targeting intervention to reduce indoor home air quality. The study conducted in Dhaka city involved 43 homes, where continuous monitoring of PM2.5 concentration was carried out over a 24-h period. Various factors related to home characteristics (i.e., home area and cooking fuel type), ventilation practices (i.e., duration of window opening), and indoor activities (i.e., cooking frequency, daily average cooking duration per meal, cleaning, smoking and use of mosquito coil and spray) were assessed to explore their impact on indoor air quality. Through the multiple linear regression model, the relationship between the factors and indoor pollutant concentrations was analyzed. The average PM2.5 concentration recorded in this investigation was five time higher in comparison to the World Health Organization's (WHO) 24-h guideline level for ambient air pollution. Four factors including outdoor air, home area, cooking duration and cleaning frequency were found to be significantly linked to indoor concentrations, collectively explaining 64 % of the variability in indoor PM2.5 levels. Outdoor air infiltration emerged as the most influential predictor of indoor levels, contributing significantly to indoor concentrations. The identified factors could assist in targeting interventions to reduce microenvironmental PM2.5 concentration at home.

Examining the role of industry lobbying on Canadian front-of-pack labelling regulations.

Health Canada recently issued a Marketing Authorization to expand the eligibility of the dairy-related exemption for Canadian front-of-pack labelling (FOPL) regulations. The 2024 Marketing Authorization exempts dairy-related products that are a 'source of calcium,' rather than only 'high in' calcium as previously regulated, from displaying a 'High in' front-of-pack nutrition symbol, regardless of their saturated fat and sodium levels. The Marketing Authorization, heavily influenced by the food industry, lacks strong scientific evidence to support its adoption. Although there is a high prevalence of inadequate calcium intakes among Canadians, the Marketing Authorization will exempt more dairy-related products that are significant contributors of saturated fat and sodium for Canadians. While providing very little calcium, many dairy-related products, particularly cheese products, are 'high in' saturated fat and/or sodium. Expanding the exemption criteria will allow dairy-related products with little health benefits to be reflected as 'healthy' (i.e., not display a 'High in' nutrition symbol), blunting the potential impact that FOPL regulations could have on improving the diets of Canadians. We strongly urge Health Canada to reconsider the expansion of the exemption and encourage others to conduct policy-relevant research and participate in the policy decision-making process to promote evidence-informed public health policies for the health of Canadians.

High-Density Lipoprotein Mimetic Peptide 4F Reduces Toxic Amyloid-Beta Exposure to the Blood-Brain Barrier Endothelium in Alzheimer's Disease Transgenic Mice.

Aβ accumulation in the blood-brain barrier (BBB) endothelium, which lines the cerebrovascular lumen, is a significant contributor to cerebrovascular dysfunction in Alzheimer's disease (AD). Reduced high-density lipoprotein (HDL) levels are associated with increased AD risk, and the HDL mimetic peptide 4F has been developed as a promising therapeutic agent to improve cerebrovascular health in AD. In this study, we evaluated the impact of 4F on 125I-Aβ42 blood-to-brain distribution using dynamic SPECT/CT imaging in both wild-type and APP/PS1 transgenic mice. Graphical analysis of the imaging data demonstrated that 4F significantly reduced the blood-to-brain influx rate in wild-type mice and the distribution of 125I-Aβ42 in the BBB endothelium in APP/PS1 mice. To elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying the effect of 4F, we evaluated its impact on the p38 pathway and its role in mediating Aβ42 trafficking in human BBB endothelial cell monolayers. Treatment with 4F significantly decreased Aβ42 induced p38 activation in BBB endothelial cells. Furthermore, inhibition of p38 kinase significantly reduced endothelial accumulation of fluorescence-labeled Aβ42 and luminal-to-abluminal permeability across the cell monolayer. While our previous publication has hinted at the potential of 4F to reduce Aβ accumulation in the brain parenchyma, the current findings demonstrated the protective effect of 4F in reducing Aβ42 accumulation in the BBB endothelium of AD transgenic mice. These findings revealed the impact of a clinically tested agent, the HDL mimetic peptide 4F, on Aβ exposure to the BBB endothelium and offer novel mechanistic insights into potential therapeutic strategies to treat cerebrovascular dysfunction in AD.

Impacts of On‐Road Vehicular Emissions on U.S. Air Quality: A Comparison of Two Mobile Emission Models (MOVES and FIVE)

AbstractOn‐road vehicles are significant contributors to air pollution globally, particularly to nitrogen oxides (NOx) and ozone (O3). Quantifying their contribution to air quality is crucial to understanding the trends of vehicle emissions as low‐ and “zero” emission vehicles join the fleet. Modeling on‐road emissions is complex due to various factors like fleet activities, traffic patterns, and meteorological conditions. We compare on‐road emissions from two mobile models: the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Fuel‐based Inventory of Vehicle Emission (FIVE) and the US Environmental Protection Agency Motor Vehicle Emission Simulator (MOVES), finding they contribute 4%–33% to volatile organic compounds (VOCs), NOx, and fine particulate matter (PM2.5) in the contiguous United States (CONUS). Using a regional chemical transport model, we assess air quality effects under different emission scenarios. Both emission data sets yield satisfactory performance, with MOVES showing lower biases in ozone (O3) and PM2.5 over CONUS, while FIVE performs better at city scales due to higher urban NOx emissions. In January, on‐road emissions increased surface O3 over western and southern US by up to 9.1%–13.1% but decreased by 2.5% over the northeastern US, while PM2.5 predictions vary across the US (−85% to 24%). In July, on‐road emissions elevate O3 and PM2.5 concentrations by 15%–20% across CONUS, except in some west coast cities. They also greatly contribute to nitrogen dioxide (NO2) by more than 80% near roads and in urban areas. This study highlights the significant impact of on‐road emissions on urban air quality and provides insights for improving air quality forecasting and management.

Impact of Tourism Experience and Tourism Memory on the Revisit Intention: A Case Study of Tongling Grand Canyon Scenic Area, Jingxi City, China

This study revolves around the Tongling Grand Canyon Scenic Area of Jingxi City, China, regarding the effect of tourism experience and travel memory on revisit intention. Due to its lesser popularity, China’s domestic tourism is not flourishing. Tongling Grand Canyon’s study tries to find the answer to the problem. With the help of the Stimulus-Organism-Response (SOR) model, this research examines how various dimensions of tourism experiences, particularly enjoyment, socialisation, participation, learning, relaxation, escape and challenge, will influence tourists' desire to revisit. The moderating effect of travel memory on revisit intention is also explored. A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 411 subjects in Guangxi province. Results of multiple linear regression analysis indicate that as travel memory positively affects revisit intention, its most significant contributor is enjoyment and sociability. The results provide insights into how tourism managers should promote domestic tourist destinations by prioritising their enjoyment and sociability dynamics.

THE RESEARCH PRODUCTIVITY OF BATIK GREEN MATERIALS

Objective: This study aims to analyze the utilization of green materials in the batik production through the research productivity. Methods: It will determine research trends, institutional partnerships, and significant contributors in this subject by using bibliometric methodologies. It will also examine frequently used keywords, article citation networks, and popular study topics. Results: The results is the batik green materials research is still relatively new to be done. The initiation of this research itself began to be indexed by Scopus since 2012 and until 2022 there are 9 related documents. The dominant type of document is conference paper with 8 documents or 88.9%. The productive year for sustainable technology for batik research is 2020 with 4 documents. While the dominant publication source is the op Conference Series Earth And Environmental Science with 5 documents. The only country with publication related to the batik green materials research topic is Indonesia with 9 documents. Conclusion: Related to the development map in batik green materials research based on the terms co-occurrence obtained, two dominant terms were found, namely green manufacturing and methane. So that in the future batik green materials research can be carried out on different topics such as the theme of sustainable batik industry of dye, sustainable and environmentally friendly dyeing techniques, and other themes that are still related to the topics.

Comparative analysis of embodied carbon in modular and conventional construction methods in Hong Kong

Addressing the rise in global temperatures and the associated increase in greenhouse gases, particularly carbon dioxide, is a critical challenge necessitating innovative approaches within the building sector, a significant contributor to worldwide carbon emissions. While previous studies have demonstrated the prefabrication’s potential in reducing emissions, comprehensive assessments using actual project data for buildings constructed entirely with modular methods in Hong Kong are lacking. This study bridges this gap by evaluating the modular integrated construction (MiC) method through an embodied carbon assessment of the Kai Tak Community Isolation Facility. Using comprehensive project data from China State Construction (HK) Limited, the research conducts a comparative analysis between the actual emissions of the MiC method and those of a hypothetical conventional construction approach. Quantitative analysis reveals that MiC achieves a 20.7% reduction in embodied carbon, primarily due to shortened construction timelines, decreased waste generation, and optimized material usage. This significant reduction suggests substantial potential for decreasing the construction industry’s carbon footprint. The study provides empirical evidence supporting the environmental benefits of MiC in Hong Kong construction industry, promoting its broader adoption of MiC as a strategy for achieving carbon reduction targets. The findings align with Hong Kong’s carbon neutrality goals and contribute to the global initiative to mitigate the effects of climate change.

Insights into the genetic divergence in Asiatic cotton (Gossypium arboreum L.) germplasm for fibre-quality traits

Abstract Asiatic cotton (Gossypium arboreum L.) has evolved in the Indian subcontinent and is known for its adaptability to low-input management conditions. In the present study, 300 diverse G. arboreum lines, including 100 Nandyal arboreum breeding lines (NAB), 132 Arboreum germplasm collections (AGC) and 68 long-linted arboreum genotypes (LLA), were evaluated for fibre quality to assess the diversity among them and to identify promising genotypes with desirable fibre traits. Significant variations were observed among the genotypes for the studied fibre-quality traits. Principal component analysis showed that the traits micronaire (Mic) and elongation percentage (E%) followed by upper half mean length (UHML) and bundle tenacity (tenacity) were the most significant contributors to variation. Cluster analysis based on the Euclidian distance method showed 16 clusters among 300 G. arboreum genotypes. The genotypes in cluster 4 have desirable UHML, tenacity and UI (uniformity index) traits, and cluster 12 has Mic and E% traits. Furthermore, the number of genotypes with desirable fibre-quality traits was found to be higher in the AGC group than in the LLA and NAB groups. The trait tenacity followed by the UHML showed relatively higher Shannon–Weiner diversity index values across different genotypic groups. Based on the superior performance, the genotypes PA 847, PA 809, PA 837, PA 863, NDLA 3147-2, NDLA 2974 and NDLA 3081 were found to be having desirable fibre traits. The identified promising genotypes are valuable genetic resources for improving fibre quality in G. arboreum cotton.

Socioeconomic determinants of male contraceptive use in South Africa: a secondary analysis of the 2016 SADHS data

BackgroundHistorically, family planning discussions have predominantly centred on women, overlooking the crucial role men play in contraception. This is particularly concerning in regions like Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), where reproductive health challenges are pronounced. South Africa, a key country within SSA, continues to grapple with issues such as high unintended pregnancy rates and increasing pregnancy-related mortality. Understanding the factors that deter male contraceptive use is essential for achieving universal access to sexual and reproductive health (SRH) services. This study investigates the socioeconomic disparities influencing male contraceptive use in South Africa, drawing on data from the 2016 South Africa Demographic Health Survey.MethodsThe study utilised data from the 2016 South African Demographic and Health Survey, which employed a stratified, two-stage sampling design across all provinces based on the 2011 Census. The survey focused on men aged 15–59 using the “Man’s Questionnaire.” Various socio-demographic and attitudinal variables were analysed using STATA 17. The analysis included multinomial logistic regression to identify determinants of male contraceptive use and the Erreygers Normalized Concentration Index to assess socioeconomic inequalities in contraceptive uptake.ResultsAmong the surveyed men, 47% reported not using any contraception, 40% used male methods, and 13% relied on their partners’ contraceptive use. A majority began sexual activity between the ages of 14–17 (54%), resided in urban areas (56%), were unmarried (67%), and had attained secondary education (70%). Notably, 78% disagreed that contraception is solely a woman’s responsibility, and 64% expressed positive attitudes toward contraception. Age, marital status, and education level emerged as significant factors influencing contraceptive use. The study revealed a slight pro-rich inequality in male contraception use, with socioeconomic status (SES) being the most significant contributor to this disparity (223.22%). This suggests that higher SES is associated with increased inequality in the adoption of modern male contraceptive methods.ConclusionThese findings highlight the impact of socioeconomic disparities and entrenched cultural beliefs on male contraceptive use in South Africa. To address these challenges, comprehensive strategies that prioritise education, expand family planning media campaigns and ensure equitable access to contraception are urgently needed.

Community Perspectives on the Environmental, Social, and Economic Impacts of the Tomohon International Flower Festival

Purpose: The purpose of this research is to evaluate the perceptions of the local community regarding the economic, socio-cultural, and environmental impacts of the Tomohon International Flower Festival (TIFF). Specifically, the study aims to understand how the residents of Tomohon view the festival's contributions to their economic well-being, social cohesion, cultural preservation, and environmental sustainability. Research methodology: This research used an exploratory approach to analyse residents' perceptions of the economic, socio-cultural, and environmental impacts of festival activities in Tomohon. Results: The results of the research indicate that the Tomohon International Flower Festival (TIFF) is perceived positively by the local community across several dimensions. Economically, TIFF is seen as a significant contributor to local income, job creation, and regional revenue. Socio-culturally, the festival enhances social interactions, fosters cultural pride, and supports cultural and educational development. However, the community also expressed concerns about environmental sustainability, particularly regarding waste generation and its negative impact on the city’s aesthetics. Limitations: The data gathered reflects the views of the respondents at a specific point in time and may be influenced by personal experiences, biases, or limited knowledge about broader economic, socio-cultural, and environmental factors. Additionally, the sample size, though sufficient for exploratory analysis, may not be fully representative of the entire Tomohon population, potentially limiting the generalizability of the findings. Contribution: This article contributes to the broader understanding of the socio-economic and environmental impacts of large-scale cultural events like the Tomohon International Flower Festival (TIFF) from the perspective of local communities. This research also serves as a guide for event organizers and policymakers in optimizing the benefits of festivals while addressing community concerns, thereby promoting more sustainable and inclusive event planning.

Integrated network pharmacology, metabolomics and molecular docking analysis to reveal the mechanisms of quercetin in the treatment of hyperlipidemia

Hyperlipidemia (HLP) is a significant contributor to cardiovascular diseases. Quercetin (QUE), a naturally occurring flavonoid with diverse bioactivities, has garnered attention due to its potential therapeutic effects. However, the precise mechanisms underlying the effects of QUE on HLP remain unclear. In this study, an ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography-quadrupole/electrostatic field Orbitrap high-resolution mass spectrometry (UPLC-Q-Exactive-MS) metabolomics strategy was employed to obtain metabolite profiles, and potential biomarkers were identified following data analysis. Network pharmacology and Drug Affinity Responsive Target Stability (DARTS) assays were utilized to explore the potential targets of QUE for HLP treatment. The results of metabolomics and network pharmacology were then integrated to identify the key targets and metabolic pathways involved in the therapeutic action of the QUE against HLP. Molecular docking and experimental validation were performed to confirm these key targets. A comprehensive database search identified 138 QUE-HLP-related targets. A protein-protein interaction (PPI) network was constructed using STRING, and the shared targets were filtered with Cytoscape. Among these, AKT1, TNF, VEGFA, mTOR, SREBP1, and SCD emerged as potential therapeutic targets. These findings were validated using in vitro cell experiments. Additionally, the mechanism of action of QUE against HLP was evaluated by integrating network pharmacology with metabolomics, identifying two metabolomic pathways crucial to HLP treatment. DARTS experiments confirmed the stable binding of QUE to FASN, p-mTOR, SREBP1, and p-AKT. In HepG2 cells treated with palmitic acid (PA), QUE significantly reduced the mRNA expression of ACLY, ACACA, FASN, and SCD (p < 0.05). Western blot analysis revealed that PA significantly increased protein expression of p-mTOR, SREBP1, FASN, and p-AKT (p < 0.05). In summary, our study provides novel insights into the protective mechanisms of QUE against HLP and offers valuable information regarding its potential benefits in clinical treatment.

Selecting a Brief Cognitive Screening Test Based on Patient Profile: It Is Never Too Early to Start

Introduction: Cognitive impairment, marked by a decline in memory and attention, is frequently underdiagnosed, complicating effective management. Cardiovascular risk factors (CVR) and anticholinergic burden (ACB) are significant contributors to dementia risk, with ACB often stemming from medications prescribed for neuropsychiatric disorders. This study evaluates cognitive profiles through three brief cognitive tests, analyzing the impact of CVR and ACB presence. Methods: This cross-sectional study was performed between 2019 and 2023 in community pharmacies and an outpatient clinic in Valencia, Spain. Eligible participants were patients with subjective memory complaints 50 years or older with clinical records of cardiovascular factors. Patients with conflicting information regarding diabetes diagnosis or not taking concomitant medications were excluded. Three brief cognitive tests (Memory Impairment Screening (MIS), Semantic Verbal Fluency Test, and SPMSQ) were assessed. CVR was calculated using the European SCORE2 table, and ACB was assessed using the CALS scale. Results: Among 172 patients with memory complaints and CVR factors, 60% failed at least one cognitive test. These patients were on significantly more medications and had higher blood pressure and HbA1c levels. An increase in CVR and ACB was associated with more failed tests. Additionally, elevated SCORE2 scores were associated with a greater failure rate on the MIS test, while patients with elevated ACB more frequently failed the SPMSQ test. Conclusions: Selecting an adequate brief cognitive test according to patients’ characteristics offers an opportunity to screen patients who are probably cognitively impaired. Whereas the MIS test may be helpful for patients with cardiovascular risk, SPMSQ stands out among patients with significant ACB.