Adamson University

Background Pancreatic, liver, colorectal, and lung cancer are some of the cancers with the highest mortality rates and the poorest prognosis. The discovery of cytotoxic T-cell (CD8+) epitopes in tumor-associated antigens (TAAs) common to these four types of cancer could lead to the development of potential multi-purpose vaccine constructs and formulations. Methods Common overexpressed TAAs in the four deadliest cancer types were determined through gene expression analysis and the CD8+ epitopes were determined through immunoinformatics. The predicted epitopes were screened using multiple parameters measuring binding affinity and tendency to be presented by common human leukocyte antigen I (HLA I) alleles. They were also evaluated for antigenicity, allergenicity, toxicity, cross-reactivity, and population coverage. The epitope-HLA pairs were further analyzed for their interactions and binding affinity through molecular docking studies. Results Integrin subunit alpha 2 (ITGA2), solute carrier family 2 member 1 (SLC2A1), and TPX2 microtubule nucleation factor (TPX2) were found to be significantly upregulated in 3 out of the 4 cancer types studied. Epitope mapping of ITGA2, SLC2A1, and TPX2 resulted in 12, 10, and 6 candidate CD8+ T-cell epitopes, respectively. Each set of epitopes from the 3 highly upregulated TAAs can cover wider population range, with ITGA2 covering the largest percentage, followed by TPX2 and lastly, by SLC2A1. Molecular docking analysis showed acceptable binding affinity between the epitope-HLA pairs. Conclusions This is the first study to screen common highly upregulated TAAs found in different cancer types through gene expression analysis. Potentially immunogenic CD8+ epitopes were identified from ITGAX2, SLC2A1, and TPX2 through immunoinformatics. The epitopes, especially in combination, can cover wider population range where the deadliest cancer types are prevalent. Identified CD8+ epitopes can be included as potential multi-purpose agents in cancer immunotherapy against multiple deadly cancer types.

Child psychological maltreatment has a strong relationship with college students’ depression. However, the potential mediating and moderating variables between the two need further exploration. This study collected subjective data of college students from two universities in China through a cross-sectional survey, including variables such as child psychological maltreatment, psychological inflexibility, difficulty in identifying feelings, and depression. Through correlation analysis, a mediation model and a moderated mediation model were constructed to explore the interrelationships among the variables.The research results show that there is a significant positive correlation between child psychological maltreatment, psychological inflexibility, difficulty in identifying feelings, and college students’ depression. Moreover, psychological inflexibility plays a mediating role between child psychological maltreatment and college students’ depression, while difficulty in identifying feelings significantly moderates the relationship between child psychological maltreatment and college students’ depression. This study reveals the significant associations among child psychological maltreatment, psychological inflexibility, difficulty in identifying feelings, and college students’ depression. These findings remind us to pay attention to the potential mediating role of psychological inflexibility and the moderating role of difficulty in identifying feelings when exploring the relationship between child psychological maltreatment and college students’ depression. These results provide a new perspective for understanding the psychological mechanism of depression and offer potential targets for prevention and intervention.

In recent years, artificial intelligence (AI) technology has rapidly advanced and found widespread application in corporate management. Leveraging AI to enhance Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) performance and promote sustainable development has become a focal point for both academia and industry. This study aims to explore the impact of AI-driven ESG practices on the sustainable development performance of central state-owned enterprises in China. It analyzes the specific effects of AI technology in corporate governance, environmental protection, and social responsibility, and evaluates its contribution to the overall sustainable development of enterprises. The study employs a survey method, targeting 200 managers and employees from Central state-owned enterprises. The questionnaire comprises 15 questions covering three dimensions: corporate governance, environmental protection, and social responsibility. Descriptive statistics and correlation analysis are used to conduct an in-depth analysis of the collected data. The results indicate that respondents positively assess central state-owned enterprises in terms of corporate governance, environmental protection, and social responsibility, with particularly strong performance in social responsibility. Additionally, a regression analysis model is constructed. The results demonstrate that AI technology can enhance the practices and foster the sustainable development of central state-owned enterprises. Furthermore, ESG serves as a mediating factor between AI adoption and improvements in sustainable development performance. The findings provide practical insights for improving corporate management efficiency, enhancing environmental performance transparency, and boosting social image and brand value.

From fighting corrosion to illuminating cancer cells, can one material truly do it all? Carbon dots (CDs), with their unique properties, offer a promising answer to the escalating global challenges of environmental pollution and infrastructure degradation. Surface passivation, achieved through doping, is crucial in enhancing CD stability and photoluminescence. Doping with heteroatoms and metal ions modifies CD surface chemistry and electronic properties, resulting in improved fluorescence, stability, and anti-corrosion performance. This comprehensive review explores various doping techniques and their impact on CD properties, highlighting their diverse applications in anti-corrosion coatings, solar cells, bioimaging, sensing, and antibacterial agents. The review also addresses future perspectives and challenges in doped CD research, emphasizing the need for innovative doping strategies, scalable production methods, standardization, and successful device integration. The strategic manipulation of CD properties through doping will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in shaping the future of nanomaterial science and engineering, paving the way for innovative solutions to global challenges.

Herein, a one-pot solvothermal method was employed to synthesize Fe-doped carbon nanodots using waste expanded polystyrene as the carbon source and ferric chloride hexahydrate for iron doping. Three synthesis parameters-reaction time, temperature, and dopant weight-were optimized using Response Surface Methodology (RSM) based on Box-Behnken design, with relative fluorescence (FL) intensity as the response. Model validation showed a percentage error of 0.66% between replication experiments and predicted maximum intensity, confirming the model's reliability to maximize FL intensity in synthesis. FTIR spectroscopy identified the presence of a medium peak at 538 cm⁻¹, associated with Fe-O stretching, indicating successful Fe doping, supported by EDX analysis. TEM analysis confirmed the nanosized properties of Fe-CDs, with an average particle size of 1.84 nm, and HR-TEM revealed an onion-like structure with a lattice spacing of 0.369 nm, and the presence of amorphous shells, suggesting structural heterogeneity. The synthesized doped and undoped CDs were employed in a drop-casting method to produce films that were used for carbon monoxide detection. Results displayed significant effects of operating temperature and gas concentration on the gas response of Fe-CDs and CDs films on resistance. The significant statistical difference in gas response between Fe-CDs and undoped CDs suggests that Fe doping enhances electron mobility, due to more pronounced changes in resistivity, yielding higher responses to carbon monoxide gas.

Purpose The underreporting of adverse drug reactions (ADRs) remains a significant challenge in the Philippines. Pharmacists play a crucial role in ensuring medication safety, improving patient outcomes, and enhancing the overall effectiveness of pharmacovigilance (PV) systems. This study explored the barriers and facilitators affecting PV practices among pharmacists in Metro Manila. Methods This study employed qualitative research through in‐depth interviews using a semi‐structured topic guide. Researchers interviewed pharmacists until data saturation was reached, where no new insights emerged. Qualitative data were analyzed inductively, utilizing Braun and Clarke's thematic analysis to identify key themes. MAXQDA was used to facilitate coding and analyzing the qualitative data. Results A total of 40 pharmacists (72.5% female) participated in this study, evenly distributed across various practice areas and geographic locations in Metro Manila. The analysis identified four main themes related to pharmacists' nonreporting of ADRs: competency gaps, organizational challenges, reporting issues, and workplace constraints. Pharmacists' limited knowledge of ADRs and lack of experience in ADR reporting appear to be the primary barriers, along with environmental factors. Conversely, critical strategies for improving ADR notifications include capacity building, motivation and rewards, and work optimization. Conclusion Pharmacists recognize the importance of reporting ADRs and view it as a professional responsibility. By prioritizing knowledge enhancement, training, and system improvements, the identification and reporting of ADRs can be strengthened, ultimately enhancing patient safety and PV practices. This positive attitude toward ADR reporting lays the groundwork for interventions designed to overcome barriers and promote a culture of active reporting among pharmacists.

Background The availability of HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) in Southeast Asia remains limited compared to regions like Western Europe or North America. Additionally, little is known about how key populations in Southeast Asia perceive the use of PrEP as a prevention tool for HIV. This scoping review aims to provide an overview of the literature on the acceptability and feasibility of HIV PrEP programs in Southeast Asia. Methods We conducted a systematic search using nine electronic databases, gray literature searches, and hand searches of references in included full-text articles. Following PRISMA guidelines for scoping reviews, we focused on original research articles published in English from July 2012 to December 2022. A narrative synthesis was used to summarize the findings. Results We identified 8,871 articles through the database search, removed 1,094 duplicates, and excluded 7,745 articles after title and abstract screening. Over 28 articles met the inclusion criteria. The use of PrEP was found to be highly acceptable, with participants showing a willingness to use and pay for it, moderate usage rates, convenience, and preference over other prevention methods. It was also considered highly feasible due to its effectiveness and successful program implementation. However, barriers included risk compensation, concerns about side effects, the burden of daily pill administration, and, most commonly noted in studies, cost. Conclusion HIV PrEP has been shown to be both acceptable and feasible. The necessity for direct efforts to expand PrEP access in Southeast Asia and address barriers to its uptake and adherence underscores the importance of ongoing monitoring and implementation.

The increasing prevalence of Vibrio vulnificus, a potentially lethal pathogen, poses a severe threat to aquatic ecosystems and public health, exacerbated by the ongoing effects of climate change. This study explored a pioneering strategy that combines microbial fuel cell (MFC) technology and molecular docking techniques to combat V. vulnificus pollution and harness the multifaceted potential of Punica granatum L. (pomegranate) peels. Water and ethanol extracts of P. granatum L. peels have been investigated for their antioxidant, bioenergy generation, and anti-V. vulnificus activities. The major compound identified in these extracts is ellagic acid, known for its electron-shuttling capabilities and anti-V. vulnificus properties. These extracts displayed remarkable antioxidant activity, suggesting their potential to mitigate oxidative stress caused by environmental pollution and climate change-induced factors. Moreover, microbial fuel cells (MFCs) were employed as a sustainable technology to generate bioenergy. Using P. granatum L. peel extracts as electron shuttles within the MFCs demonstrated promising results in enhancing energy generation efficiency, with maximal power densities of PG-E 1.67-fold and PG-W 2.13-fold. Molecular docking studies revealed the strong binding affinity of ellagic acid (LibDock score 110.872) to the V. vulnificus target, offering insights into the mechanisms behind its antibacterial properties. These findings may provide a new rationale for using P. granatum L. peels as a natural antimicrobial agent against V. vulnificus. Graphical Abstract

This study explored the local characteristics of Generation Z students in rural communities as insights to enhance the implementation of the Philippine PATH-Fit program and improve students’ educational experiences. Employing a qualitative-ethnographic approach, insights were collected from 20 carefully selected participants through open-ended questions validated by experts. The findings identified seven key characteristics: competitiveness, pressure from external expectations, a tendency to overthink and experience emotional and depressive states, adaptability, cooperation, organizational skills, perfectionism, body consciousness, and a strong sense of social awareness, openness, and risk-taking. The study concludes that these students exhibit unique strengths and challenges. Their competitive nature and high standards are often accompanied by significant stress and self-imposed pressure. While their adaptability and teamwork skills help them navigate changing environments, their emotional sensitivity and focus on body image can affect their mental health. Their proactive approach to societal issues and openness to new experiences make them dynamic and complex individuals. These findings underscore the importance of addressing Generation Z students' strengths and vulnerabilities to better support their overall well-being and success within the PATH-Fit program.

Despite the availability of instruments to assess parentification or role reversal between a child and a parent within the family, there has been limited research on developing and validating these tools for Asian samples. This study aims to create and refine culturally valid measures of parentification for Filipino emerging adults, specifically college students. The study includes 2,419 non-overlapping college students from Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao, the three major islands of the Philippines. Through the scale development method, the proposed Filipino Parentification for College Students (FPScs) identified four domains using exploratory factor analysis: Sibling-focused Parentification, Perceived Injustice of Parentification, Willingness to Contribute to Familial Obligation, and Perceived Positive Impact of Parentification. Confirmatory factor analysis demonstrated acceptable model fit indices for the four FPScs subscales: RMSEA (0.056), SRMR (0.051), GFI (0.93), CFI (0.94), and TLI (0.93). Additionally, the four subscales of the FPScs have demonstrated satisfactory levels of construct validity and reliability. Finally, this newly developed instrument will enable researchers, academics, and practitioners, particularly university counselors, to better assess the family system construct of parentification using an ecologically appropriate school-based instrument, especially relevant for college students facing mental and social health challenges.

Background: Telepharmacy is a method utilized in pharmacy practice that delivers pharmaceutical care services via telecommunication technology. In the Philippines, the current process for patients to avail of telepharmacy services utilizes a variety of existing applications or websites instead of a single application. Objectives: This study aimed to assess patient feedback on the feasibility of the newly developed telepharmacy mobile application, YourRx. Specifically, it evaluated the application’s functionality, usability, security, and performance. Methods: The study had 3 phases: (1) the design and development phase, (2) the implementation phase, wherein the pharmacists and patients were oriented beforehand with the use of YourRx mobile application, and (3) the evaluation phase, where the mobile application was evaluated for its functionality, usability, security, and performance by the patients through the use of a survey questionnaire and an interview. Results: YourRx application was developed and evaluated successfully. It is available for Android users and has primary features, including video calls, sharing, and setting an appointment. A total of 46 patients used the YourRx. Most of the patients were very satisfied with the navigation, service acquisition, and overall design of the YourRx. They expressed convenience in acquiring telepharmacy services because the application was easy to understand, use, and navigate. Conclusion: YourRx is a pioneering telepharmacy mobile application in the Philippines. The results of this study substantiate that YourRx is a user-friendly platform that provides patients convenient access to telepharmacy services with less time and effort thus improving patient health outcomes.

This study examined the association between healthcare access and quality of life (QOL) among senior citizens in Pampanga, Philippines. We conducted a cross-sectional study among 410 community-dwelling senior citizens aged 60 and above. Using validated scales, we assessed both healthcare access and QOL. Descriptive statistics were employed to characterize the senior citizens, and multiple linear regression was used to examine the association between healthcare access and QOL. Senior citizens, averaging 69 years old, were predominantly women, single/widowed, and with comorbidities. They reported high healthcare access (mean = 120.13) and moderate QOL (mean = 70.79). Environmental health scored highest in QOL domains, while social relationships scored lowest. Overall healthcare access was positively associated with overall QOL (B [unstandardized beta] = .22, 95% CI [confidence interval] 0.10, 0.33) and its domains. Significant associations with overall QOL were observed for accessibility (B = 1.95, 95% CI 0.98, 2.91) and affordability (B = −1.60, 95% CI −2.46, −0.74). Filipino senior citizens in Pampanga demonstrated high healthcare access and moderate QOL. The study highlights the importance of healthcare access in enhancing senior citizens’ QOL, particularly regarding accessibility and affordability. Further research is needed to explore the nuanced relationships between healthcare access subscales and specific QOL domains.

Herein, we report the utilization of biochar derived from rice straw (RSB) as an effective support matrix for Pd nanoparticles and its application as an electrocatalyst for ethanol electro‐oxidation (EEO) in an alkaline medium. Rice straw, a common agricultural byproduct, was pyrolyzed at 600 °C, 700 °C, and 800 °C under N2 atmosphere. Pd was loaded onto the RSB via borohydride reduction of Pd2+, with a nominal loading of 20% Pd. Spectroscopic and morphological characterization revealed the formation of dispersed Pd nanoparticles on the RSB surface. Pyrolysis temperature was observed to influence both the porosity of the resulting RSB and the dispersion and degree of exposure of Pd nanoparticles deposited on the surface. Electrochemical characterization revealed that Pd/RSB could be a potential EEO electrocatalyst for direct ethanol fuel cell applications. Pd/RSB‐700 exhibited better performance in terms of EEO forward mass activity (jf) and forward and backward mass activity (jf/jb) ratio relative to Pd/RSB‐600 and Pd/RSB‐800. Moreover, Pd/RSB was shown to be superior to commercial Pd on carbon black in terms of electrochemical stability. This study opens the potential of rice straw biochar as a sustainable and environmentally friendly carbon‐based support matrix for Pd‐based EEO electrocatalysts.

Naphthol Green B (NGB) is a synthetic azo dye widely used in various industries, including textiles and leathers. NGB poses significant environmental and ecological concerns when released into natural water systems. This paper investigates the decolorization of NGB using UV/sulfite system. The % decolorization of NGB was optimized using 3² Full Factorial Design (FFD), and the ANOVA results show that the model has a good fit for the data (R² = 99.54 %, R²(adj) = 98.76 %) and the significant factors contributing to the % decolorization are A, B, A², and B² where A = mM sulfite and B = pH. The model predicted ≥100 % decolorization with the optimum conditions 12 mM sulfite and pH 10. An actual experiment was conducted to verify the response, resulting in 96.2 % decolorization which is in good agreement with the model.

Nanosatellites have increased in popularity, but its limited communication bandwidth and computing resource constraints remain a challenge. Orbital edge computing has been explored to address this issue by utilizing neural networks onboard the satellites for land use classification. This study explores the performance of pre-trained quantized neural networks in land use classification by fine-tuning ResNet50, MobileNetV3, and GoogLeNet using the EuroSAT RGB dataset with an 80-20 split. The study evaluated the three models based on its accuracy and file size and against its non-quantized counterparts. It was found that the best model is the MobileNetV3, with an 89.04% accuracy at a 3,090 KB file size. MobileNetV3 was also found to be the best architecture for quantization with the least impact to accuracy, with a reduction of only 5.05%, and having the most significant reduction in file size of 85.71%.