Breast cancer is a very diverse illness that is caused by a complex interaction of environmental, molecular, and hereditary variables. Notch signaling, the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway, the MAPK/ERK pathway, and the NF-κB pathway are important participants in the development, progression, and metastasis of breast cancer. These pathways control vital biological functions including metastasis, apoptosis, cell survival, and proliferation. Furthermore, mutations in the BRCA1/BRCA2-mediated DNA damage repair pathways are closely linked to hereditary breast malignancies and are essential for preserving genomic integrity. Many breast cancer subtypes are characterised by disruptions in the hormonal signaling pathways, namely HER2 receptor signaling, and Estrogen Receptor (ER) signaling, which inform treatment approaches. Additionally, breast cancer frequently exhibits dysregulation of apoptotic pathways, encompassing both intrinsic and extrinsic mechanisms, which contributes to resistance to treatment. Comprehending the complex network of these pathways not only aids in clarifying the biology of breast cancer but also creates new opportunities for targeted treatments, including kinase inhibitors for PI3K/AKT-driven subtypes and PARP inhibitors for tumors with BRCA mutations. Precision treatment and better patient outcomes are made possible by this thorough understanding of the molecular processes underlying breast cancer.
Dysregulation of SUMOylation and de-SUMOylation events involving transcription factors contributes to the pathogenesis of hypoxia-induced pulmonary diseases. In this study, we identify and characterise specific SUMOylation sites on transcription factors that play crucial roles in a range of conditions, such as pulmonary hypertension, asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and coronary heart disease. Sophisticated computational tools such as SUMO-Plots, JASSA and GPS-SUMO were used to predict SUMOylation sites and SUMO-interacting motifs on transcription factors associated with pulmonary disease and hypoxia. Results concluded that the transcription factors e.g. TWIST1, HIF-1α, NFY, MEF2, and NF-κB play crucial roles as key regulators of gene expression and driving development and functionality of pulmonary system. Additionally, ZBTB10, MYNN, ZKSCAN1, TP63, and ATF6B contribute significantly to pulmonary functions and development. Furthermore, we compared and analysed the results obtained from databases, enhancing understanding of the SUMOylation mediated regulatory mechanisms of pulmonary pathophysiology. These findings illuminate the critical role of SUMO modification in pulmonary functions and disease pathogenesis. Thus, the present findings pave the way for further exploration into target-specific SUMOylation, offering promising avenues for discovering new treatment targets and developing strategies to manage pulmonary disorders induced by hypoxia.
Kefir, a multi-purpose beverage that originated in the North Caucasus, has been consumed since the nineteenth century. Traditionally, kefir is produced by incubating the desired milk source with appropriate kefir grains, preferably at 20-24 °C for 24 h. Kefir gives a sour, carbonated taste with a mild alcoholic flavor, making it a discrete fermented beverage. The versatile probiotic drink has the upper hand over yogurt with improved antimicrobial, antioxidant, and antitumor properties. Traditionally, kefir is prepared by inoculating kefir grains in cow milk, buffalo milk, or any other desired milk; however, other animals (goat milk, sheep milk, donkey milk) and plant sources (soy milk, peanut milk, almond milk) have also been explored. Kefir is not yet commonly included in Indian Defence rations, but it holds the potential to replace yogurt over time, despite some limitations related to Indian taste preferences. Military personnel represent a unique group that must maintain both good physical and mental health to carry out their missions effectively. Certain probiotic strains of kefir can induce physiological changes that enhance physical and psychological health and performance in military personnel. The current review provides an overview of different sources used for kefir production, various physicochemical and antimicrobial parameters characterised, microbial profile, organoleptic attributes, and safety concerns. The review also depicts the possible applications of kefir in the civil domain and incorporation in the Defence ration.
The Indian Army has a rich history of military training, with numerous academies and institutions that provide world-class multidimensional training and education to officers, soldiers, and students. The training focuses on developing leadership and tactical skills, as well as physical and mental fitness, that enhance forces for diverse challenges in different environments and across various soldier portfolios in advanced warfare technology. The aim was to study the impact of military training on recruits in two phases, pre- and post-training, over 31 weeks. A cross-sectional study involving 240 Military trainees in two phases of pre- and post-military training by using Likert scales on resilience, stress management, coping resources, and emotional intelligence. The obtained data were analysed using the paired samples t-test. The findings demonstrate a 10-point mean improvement in resilience, a 16-point increase in stress management, a 7-point rise in the acquisition of coping resources, and a 6-point enhancement in emotional intelligence scores following six months of military training. The confounded variables of intelligence and competency in technology exhibited significant changes, substantially increasing resilience, stress intervention, coping resources, and emotional intelligence. Findings demonstrate that military training is multifaceted, concentrating not only on building physical fitness but also on bolstering mental responses, ultimately leading to the overall improvement of an individual. In this way, military training ultimately yields more mature and situation-ready individuals who are prepared to face any challenges in a positive manner, finally giving rise to the overall development of the soldier.
The research investigates the relationship between Locus of Control (LoC) and Perceived Social Support (PSS) in Indian Army veterans after they transitioned to civillian life. It further explores how these factors influence their mental health outcomes. Two hundred seventy-three male Indian Army veteran officers’ data was collected through purposive sampling. It was hypothesised that the LoC and PSS were correlated and that PSS of the veterans also correlated with their mental health outcomes. A correlational quantitative study was carried out to test these hypotheses. Preliminary analysis showed that a generally internal LoC, strong perceived social support and moderate to good mental health outcomes define the sample. A weak positive correlation was found between LoC and PSS and a negative correlation between PSS and depression, suggesting potential connections between these variables.
