bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bank stability and fintech impact on MSMES’ credit performance and credit accessibility
Authors: Ismanto Hadi , Adi Wibowo Purwo , Dyna Shofwatin Tsalsa
Published: November 2023

The growth of financial technology (fintech) brings happiness to micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) that banks have denied access to credit. However, this condition has the potential to create a climate of intensified competition in the credit market and threaten banking stability. Therefore, this study examines the impact of banking stability and fintech on credit performance and credit access of MSMEs. This study uses a sample of 46 public commercial banks of the Republic of Indonesia and uses quarterly data from 2010 to 2022. The number of observations used for bank stability variables was 2,392, and for the fintech variables, 921 observations. This research analysis uses the fixed effect model method with robust standard errors. The results show that bank stability and fintech effect MSMEs’ credit performance and their access to credit. This finding encourages the competition-fragility theory. Bank stability reduces nonperforming loans and MSMEs’ access to credit. This indicates that stable banks encourage better MSME loan performance and thus restrict their lending to MSMEs. The existence of fintech is proven to improve MSMEs’ non-performing loans and their access to credit. Fintech that facilitates easy credit causes MSMEs` credit performance at banks to fall, which in turn opens the gate for MSME credit. The implication is that the financial services authority (OJK) needs to tighten further the online lending of fintech companies that have put more burden on MSMEs with high capital costs that can affect the ability of MSMEs to pay bank loan installments.
AcknowledgmentsAppreciation is given to the Directorate General of Higher Education, Research and Technology, Ministry of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology, which has provided a fundamental research grant with contract number 182/E5/PG.02.00.PL/2023. Thanks are also given to higher education service institutions (LLDIKTI) Region 6 and the Institute of Research and Community Services (LPPM) Unisnu Jepara Indonesia, which has supported this research.
Participation of glutamic acid in the catecholamines release from the amygdala of rabbits
Authors: WROŃSKA DANUTA , KANIA BOGDAN FELIKS , SZPRĘGIEL IZABELA
Published: November 2023

Glutamic acid (Glu), as the most stimulating neurotransmitter, occurs in almost all structures of the central nervous system (CNS). Especially high concentrations are found in the structures of the motivational system (hypothalamus, hippocampus, amygdala, prefrontal cortex – mPFC) and the motor system (striatum, caudate nucleus, pallidum). Glu is also found in the autonomic nervous system (ANS), as well as in peripheral tissues and organs (in the adrenal glands, especially important in stress; the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis – HPA axis). Catecholamines (CA), including dopamine (DA), norepinephrine (NE), and/or epinephrine (E), are major neurotransmitters that mediate various CNS functions, such as motor control, cognition, emotion, memory processing, pain, stress, and endocrine modulation. The aim of the study was to investigate the in vitro effect of different concentrations of Glu (5, 50, and 200 μM in a volume of 1 ml of Krebs medium) on CA release from rabbit amygdala sections collected after decapitation of 12-week-old female rabbits. The same piece of tissue was transferred every 30 minutes to successive incubation wells containing Glu in an appropriate dose. The medium collected from the wells after 30, 60, and 90 minutes of incubation was frozen until DA, NE, and E analyses were performed by the RIA method. The results showed that Glu differently affected CA release from the amygdala. Generally, an inhibitory effect of Glu on CA release from the amygdala was observed. It was surprising to find the highest concentration of E in the amygdala compared to NA and even DA.
Mycobacterial infections in cats (Felis catus) as a potential threat to humans – a review 2014–2023
Authors: DIDKOWSKA ANNA , ŻMUDA PIOTR , ORŁOWSKA BLANKA , ANUSZ KRZYSZTOF
Published: November 2023

Mycobacteria infections in cats include tuberculosis (caused by Mycobacterium bovis and Mycobacterium microti) and mycobacteriosis caused by non-tuberculous mycobacteria (NTM). The aim of the paper is to present the latest reports on mycobacterial infections in cats and place emphasis on their impact on the health of their owners. The reviewers looked for papers about mycobacterial infections in cats in PubMed and Google Scholar from any date from January 2014 to June 2023. The search used the following keywords: cat, feline, tuberculosis, and mycobacteria. Papers were evaluated for their value to science and their applicability. Papers published in recent years have shown that mycobacterial infections in cats should still be considered in a differential diagnosis when many clinical signs present and they are mainly skin and ocular symptoms. An epidemiological investigation of these infections is highly important because cases were reported also in low-risk regions. Mycobacterial infections pose a risk to humans. The degree of risk depends on many factors, such as the species of mycobacteria, the closeness of animal-owner contact, and the immune status of the owner. The greatest risk are still believed to be M. bovis infections; however, NTM infections should also raise a concern, especially in high-risk groups.
Case of lightning strike in a cow
Authors: KUNDA SANDRA , JAŚKOWSKI JĘDRZEJ M.
Published: November 2023

The article presents a case of two cows struck by lightning, one of which survived. The cows sought shelter under an old, withered willow. Clinical examination involving inspection and palpation revealed neurological signs: right-sided facial nerve palsy characterized by flabby ear droop, ptosis of the upper eyelid and forehead, drooling, palsy of the right orbicular nerve of the eye and ophthalmological signs, such as conjunctival redness, lacrimation, local corneal opacity of the right eye and optic nerve palsy (the pupil did not react to light). The cow also exhibited notable aggression, restlessness and hypersensitivity to touch. The patient was administered NSAID meloxicam twice with a 24-hour interval between doses and a preparation containing butaphosphan and cyanocobalamin. After several days, the signs disappeared, except for a slight right ear droop, which persisted for a long time. The article also discusses the risk of such cases occurring in temperate climate areas. Lightning strikes pose a threat, killing many people and animals worldwide every year.
Robert August Kunytskyi (1880-1914): talented veterinarian and founder of theoretical zootechnics.
Authors: ŻWANKO LUBOW , KIBKAŁO DMYTRO , SOBOLEWSKI JAROSŁAW
Published: November 2023

The pages of the proposed article highlight the unusual fate of Robert August Kunytskyi’s (1888-1914). He was a well-known veterinarian, a graduate and an employee of the Kharkiv Veterinary Institute, a zootechnical scientist, a patriot of the Motherland and a hero of the Polish Legions. This study is valuable both for the history of Polish veterinary medicine and for the history of zootechnical science. It is based on archival sources that were unknown in Poland at that time and were stored in the funds of the State Archive of the Kharkiv Region. Articles from the Kharkiv press of that time that tell about his stay and professional activities in the city, are valuable for supplementing the scientist’s biography. The authors drew attention to the important role that Ukraine played in Robert Kunytskyi’s life. Kharkiv city was a place of study and later of his work at the Veterinary Institute. It is emphasized that in the Kharkiv period Kunitsky showed himself as a scientist who was engaged in animal husbandry. He initiated the reform of veterinary education, made efforts to include zootechnical disciplines in the curricula of veterinary students as well.
TaqMan real-time RT‒PCR assay with an internal amplification control for rapid detection of Bluetongue virus
Authors: CHEN CHAOLIN , HAN DIANGANG , LI JING , YE LINGLING , JI XINCHENG , NIE FUPING , SONG ZHIGANG , LUO QIANMIN , SHI YALING , PU QIQI , AI JUN , XIN JIGE
Published: November 2023

Bluetongue (BT) is an arbovirus disease caused by Bluetongue virus (BTV), which has spread all over the world. In this study, a qRT-PCR assay with an internal amplification control was established for preventing false-negative results in Bluetongue virus (BTV) detection. The primers and probes for BTV NS3 were based on the qRT-PCR method for the detection of BTV in the Manual of Diagnostic Tests and Vaccines for Terrestrial Animals (2022) of the World Organization for Animal Health (WOAH). The GAPDH gene was selected as the internal amplification control, and the primers and probes for the GAPDH gene were designed based on the analysis of conserved sequences in the genome sequences of cattle, sheep and goats. Optimization of the reaction conditions, specificity, sensitivity and repeatability tests were conducted, and a qRT-PCR method was established for the simultaneous detection of BTV and the reference gene GAPDH. The results showed that the optimal primers and probe concentrations of BTV-NS3 were 0.30 μmol/L and 0.25 μmol/L, and were 0.15 μmol/L and 0.20 μmol/L for the reference gene GAPDH. The established method has no cross-reaction with other viruses, which showed good specificity. The minimum detection of BTV- and GAPDH-positive plasmid standard copies was 6.685 copies/μL and 209 copies/μL, respectively. The intra-assay and interassay CVs of the Ct values measured by BTV were less than 1.2%, and the intra-assay and interassay CVs of the Ct values measured by GAPDH were less than 0.7%, which suggested a high degree of repeatability and stability for this assay. The established BTV qRT-PCR method was used to detect BTV in 88 sheep serum samples stored in the laboratory, revealing 4 BTV-positive samples with a positive rate of 4.55%, which was consistent with the result obtained by nested PCR for detecting BTV recommended by WOAH. The qRT-PCR method established in this study for simultaneously detecting BTV and the internal reference gene GAPDH has high sensitivity, strong specificity and high repeatability. The addition of an internal reference gene can effectively control the detection accuracy and enable false-negative results to be avoided. It can provide a reference for the standardization of qRT-PCR methods for Bluetongue disease.
Groundwater quality and human health risk assessment in urban and peri-urban regions of Jashore, Bangladesh
Authors: Ghosh Gopal Chandra , Chakraborty Tapos Kumar , Shekder Nipa , Tanin Taniya Aktar , Habib Ahsan , Zaman Samina
Published: November 2023

This study investigated the groundwater quality and its associated human health risks in the urban and peri-urban areas of Jashore, Bangladesh, where groundwater samples were collected from 67 randomly selected tube wells. The concentration of arsenic, iron, and manganese was analyzed by atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS). The water quality index indicates that about 89 and 43% of groundwater samples are not consumable for the urban and peri-urban areas, respectively. All of the source water is significantly contaminated with Escherichia coli for urban (31 ± 17.77 CFU/100 mL) and peri-urban areas (76.12 ± 35.17 CFU/100 mL), where about 67 and 57% of water source has intermediate and high microbial risk of E. coli for urban and peri-urban areas, respectively. Children and adults face unacceptable non-carcinogenic health risks for the urban area (4.13–10.67 for adults; 9.65–24.91 for children) and peri-urban area (1.05–5.58 for adults; 2.46–13.03 for children) via oral ingestion. Both groups (e.g. children = 4.25E-03 to 1.10E-02 and adult = 1.82E-03 to 4.71E-03 for urban regions; children = 1E-03 to 5E-03 and adult = 4.29E0-04 to 2.14E-03 for peri-urban regions) face undesirable carcinogenic risks from arsenic. In addition, children are suspected to have 2.33 times higher non-carcinogenic and carcinogenic health risks than adults.
Simulation and optimization of Lar Dam reservoir storage under climate change conditions
Authors: Sadeghijou Hediyeh , Sarraf Amirpouya , Ahmadi Hassan
Published: November 2023

In this research, A 15-year impact of climate change in Lar Dam has been investigated. The results showed that in the case of climate change under three scenarios, Tmax and the Tmin have increased by 5, 5.23, 6.2% and 3.5, 5.6, 5.17%, respectively, and the amount of precipitation increased by 8.55, 9.5, 13%, respectively. Also, the highest rainfall will be in 2031 and the lowest will be in 2036. Based on the intermediate state of the scenarios, the amount of runoff was obtained and the reliability index was calculated according to the upstream runoff and downstream needs for drinking, agriculture, and environment. The simulation was also performed in the WEAP model. The findings showed that the highest reliability was 86.60% of the agriculture, and by using the optimization of a honey badger and Harmony Search Algorithm, it was found that the reliability is approximately 5.06 and 1.73% higher than the simulation. In comparison with the optimization algorithms, due to the smaller value of the objective function of the HBA and the greater reliability of it, the result showed that performance of this algorithm was better and it has a faster calculation.
Recovery of precious metals from processed wastewater: conventional techniques nexus advanced and pragmatic alternatives
Authors: Adeeyo Adeyemi Ojutalayo , Bello Olugbenga Solomon , Agboola Oluwatobi Samuel , Adeeyo Rebecca Oyedoyin , Oyetade Joshua Akinropo , Alabi Mercy Adewumi , Edokpayi Joshua Nosa , Makungo Rachel
Published: November 2023

The loss of highly sought-after metals such as gold, silver, and platinum during extraction processes not only constitutes a significant waste of valuable resources but also contributes to alarming environmental pollution. The ever-growing adverse impacts of these highly valued metals significantly increase the contamination of water bodies on discharge, while reducing the reusability potential of their corresponding processed wastewater. It is, therefore, of great interest to identify pragmatic solutions for the recovery of precious materials from processed water. In this review, pollution from targeted precious metals such as gold, silver, platinum, palladium, iridium, ruthenium, and rhodium was reviewed and analyzed. Also, the hazardous effects are elicited, and detection techniques are enumerated. An insightful approach to more recent treatment techniques was also discussed. The study reveals nano- and bio-sorption techniques as adoptable pragmatic alternatives, among other techniques, especially for industrial applications with merits of cost, time, waste management, and eco-friendliness. The results indicate that gold (46.2%), palladium (23.1%), platinum (19.2%), and silver (11.5%) are of utmost interest when considering recent recovery techniques. High yield and cost analysis reduction are reasons for the observed preference of this recovery process when considering groups of precious metals. The challenges and prospects of nanomaterials are highlighted.
Fenton process enhanced by metal sulfide for treating the actual evaporated mother liquid of gas field wastewater
Authors: Yao Bing , Chen Ying , Wang Mengzhe , Liu Min
Published: November 2023

Evaporated mother liquor of gas field wastewater (EML-GFW) is a form of wastewater generated by the triple-effect evaporation treatment of gas field wastewater containing complex pollutants. In this study, four metal sulfides, CuS, ZnS, MoS2, and WS2, were used to strengthen the Fenton process in EML-GFW treatment. The optimum Fenton/ZnS process for the highest removal of TOC from EML-GFW was achieved at the initial pH of 3.0 and in a mixture of FeSO4·7H2O:ZnS:H2O2 in the ratio of 30 g/L:10 g/L:1.2 mol/L, with a TOC removal efficiency of 74.5%. The organic components analysis of EML-GFW over four distinct periods demonstrated that the presence of N,N-dimethylethanolamine (DMEA) persisted and accounted for the greatest proportion of pollutants, identifying it as the characteristic pollutant. The TOC removal mechanism by Fenton/ZnS was revealed via analysis of organic materials obtained from the Fenton/ZnS process, tert-butanol quenching experiment, and illumination experiment. ZnS-generated hole–electron pairs under illumination, which promoted the reduction of Fe3+ to Fe2+, followed by an acceleration of •OH generation, thus improving TOC removal efficiency. The Fenton/ZnS process improved the treatment of EML-GFW in the laboratory, providing strong data support and theoretical guidance for expanding this technology at the gas field project site.
Selection of Real-Coded Genetic Algorithm parameters in solving simulation–optimization problems for the design of water distribution networks
Authors: Hemanth Sai Kumar Vidavaluru , S.K. Pramada
Published: November 2023

The design of the water distribution network (WDN) is very difficult mainly due to the nonlinear relation between head and flow. The distribution network should also be cost-effective. In any simulation–optimization approach, the computational time requirement is very high for very complex problems. The optimization module plays a crucial role in reducing the computational time. This study aims to apply a simulation–optimization approach to designing a WDN. EPANET is selected as the simulation model and Real-Coded Genetic Algorithm (RCGA) is selected as the optimization module. To link the simulation module with the optimization module, a program is written in MATLAB. The developed simulation–optimization approach was applied to two benchmark network problems to check the suitability of the method. The parameters of the RCGA were optimized for the two networks. The computational efficiency of the developed simulation–optimization model is checked based on the number of function evaluations. For both networks, the number of function evaluations to get the optimum network design was less than the number of function evaluations required for other methods mentioned in the literature.
An improved equation development for longitudinal dispersion coefficient
Authors: Ukpaka Chinedu , Agunwamba Jonah Chukwuemeka
Published: November 2023

The model developed in this paper is an improved equation for the longitudinal dispersion coefficient, which is an important parameter used to monitor and check the assimilatory capacity of rivers. This research incorporates total suspended solids (Ss) and total dissolved solids (Ds) to other selected functional parameters in order to investigate the contributions of Ss and Ds on the longitudinal dispersion coefficient. The results obtained from research indicates that the presence of Ss and Ds affects longitudinal dispersion coefficient as it reduces the magnitude of Dl values. The measured values of longitudinal dispersion coefficient estimated in this study vary between 71 and 104.4 m2 s-1. The percentage of Dr values estimated to be within 0.0 and 0.3 were 50.0% and within −0.3 and 0.0 were 50% for the developed equation and this indicates a degree of accuracy of 100.0%. While for Seo and Cheong, the percentage of Dr values determined to be within 0.0 and 0.3 were 63.3% and within −0.3 and 0.0 were 30% and gives a degree of accuracy of 93.3% and others are poor. SE, NME and MME results show a high accuracy for the derived equation revealing the adequacy of the derived equation in the estimation of D.
Characterization and treatment of tunneling wastewater using natural and chemical coagulants
Authors: Ghorbani Mooselu Mehrdad , Liltved Helge , Akhtar Naureen
Published: November 2023

Particles are a concern regarding tunneling wastewater, but gaps remain in understanding metal(loid)s content and coagulation efficiency. In this research, characterization of the wastewaters before and after treatment was investigated by chemical analysis and various techniques for particle characterization. Then, laboratory work was conducted to evaluate effectiveness of sedimentation and use of coagulants to remove particles and particle-associated contaminants. Both natural (chitosan) and chemical coagulants (ferric chloride sulfates and polyaluminium chloride solution), were applied in a jar test system. The results indicated that short-time sedimentation alone substantially reduced the particle content and particle-associated pollutants, including metal(loid)s, while subsequent chemical coagulation was required to comply with discharge limits. The optimum dosages of chitosan, PIX, and PAX for water 1 after pre-treatment (15 min sedimentation) were 1 mg/L, 3 mg Fe/L, and 3 mg Al/L, respectively, while a dosage of 2 mg Al/L gave the best results in water 3. Furthermore, chemical coagulation significantly decreased the volume density of particles in the diameter range of 1–100 μm, showing that coagulants are efficient for the removal of smaller particles not removed by conventional sedimentation.
Physiological and Pathological Roles of NTSR2 in Several Organs and
Diseases (Review)
Authors: Yang Yuting , Zhang Wenxin , Wei Kun , Hu Fei , Wu Song , Ma Yuan , Ouyang Qing
Published: November 2023

Neurotensin (NTS) and its receptors (NTSRs) have long been the subject of study and
have shown to have a vital function in a variety of systems. They are specifically implicated in the
development of tumors and have both oncogenic and anti-apoptotic effects. Neurotensin receptor 2
(NTSR2), like NTSR1, belongs to the G protein-coupled receptor family and has been linked to
analgesia, mental disorders, and hematological cancers. However, several research reports have
revealed that it exists in numerous different systems. As a result, it seems to be an extremely
promising therapeutic target for a variety of diseases. As NTSR2 is particularly prevalent in the
brain and has different distribution and developmental characteristics from NTSR1, it may play a
specific role in the nervous system. The present review summarizes the expression and function of
NTSR2 in different systems, to highlight its potential as a diagnostic tool or therapeutic target.
Novel Circular RNA CircUBAP2 Drives Tumor Progression by Regulating
the miR-143/TFAP2B Axis in Prostate Cancer
Authors: Lv Zhong , Shi Yunfeng , Wu Haoran , Cao Kai , Liu Xiaowu , Wang Chengyue
Published: November 2023

Background:

More and more investigations reveal that circular RNAs (circRNAs) are
involved in cancer progression. CircRNA UBAP2 was closely related to prostate cancer. However,
the biological function and specifical mechanism of circUBAP2 are still poorly discovered in
prostate cancer (PCa).

Objective:

This study aims to explore the biological function and mechanism of circUBAP2 in PCa.

Methods:

The levels of mRNA and proteins were assessed by qRT-PCR assay and Western blot,
respectively. Cell growth, migration, and invasion ability were measured using CCK-8 assay and
Transwell assay. Apoptosis was assessed using flow cytometry. The interactions between
circUBAP2, miR-143, and TFAP2B were determined by luciferase report assay. The tumor growth
was determined by in vivo tumor formation assay. The tumor morphology was assessed using H&E
staining assay, and immunohistochemistry assay was conducted to assess the level of KI67.

Results:

We found circUBAP2 and TFAP2B were notably elevated, while miR-143 was largely
attenuated in prostate cancer cells and tissues. CircUBAP2 was found to affect cell viability,
metastasis and EMT, while attenuating the apoptosis rate of prostate cancer cells. CircUBAP2
directly targeted miR-143, and miR-143 inhibitor could reverse the effects that circUBAP2
interference-induced in prostate cancer cells. TFAP2B is directly bound to miR-143, and overexpression
of TFAP2B could attenuate the influences that miR-143-induced in prostate cancer cells.

Conclusion:

CircUBAP2 promoted prostate cancer progression via miR-143/TFAP2B axis.
Design, Synthesis, Reactions, Molecular Docking, Antitumor Activities of Novel
Naphthopyran, Naphthopyranopyrimidines, and Naphthoyranotriazolopyrimidine
Derivatives
Authors: Ahmed Borik Rita Mohammed , Amri Nasser Jaber Hadi , Mukhrish Yousef Essa , Abd El-Wahab Ashraf Hassan Fekry , Mohamed Hany Mostafa , Ibrahim Diaa Abd El-Samie , Deeb Ahmed Deeb Hassan
Published: November 2023

In ethanolic piperidine solution, the interaction of 6-bromonaphthalen-2-ol (1) with α-
cyano-p-chlorocinnamonitrile (2a) or ethyl α-cyano-p-chlorocinnamate (2b) yielded 4Hnaphtho[
2,1-b]pyran-3-carbonitrile (3a) and 4H-naphtho[2,1-b]pyran-3-carboxylate (3b). The
naphthopyran derivatives (3a, b) reacted with electrophilic reagents afforded naphthopyranopyrimidines
and naphthopyrano-triazolopyrimidine derivatives. The structures of the newly synthesized
compounds are confirmed through spectral analysis using NMR, IR, and MS spectroscopy.
The anticancer efficacy of all compounds was investigated against three cancer cell lines: MCF-
7, HeLa, and PC-3, along with a molecular docking study.
Development of a Combined Oxidative Stress and Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress-Related Prognostic Signature for Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Ma Hui , Li Zhongchen , Chen Rongxin , Ren Zhenggang
Published: November 2023

Background:

Oxidative stress and endoplasmic reticulum stress are important components
of the cellular stress process, which plays a critical role in tumor initiation and progression.

Methods:

First, the correlation between oxidative stress and endoplasmic reticulum stress was
detected in 68 human hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) tissue microarray samples by immunohistochemistry.
Differentially expressed oxidative stress- and endoplasmic reticulum stressrelated
genes (OESGs) then were screened in HCC. Next, an OESGs prognostic signature was
constructed for HCC in the training cohort (TCGA-LIHC from The Cancer Genome Atlas), by
least absolute shrinkage and selection operator Cox and stepwise Cox regression analyses, and
was verified in the external cohort (GSE14520 from the Gene Expression Omnibus). The MCP
counter was employed to evaluate immune cell infiltration. The C-index was used to evaluate the
predictive power of prognostic signature. Finally, a prognostic nomogram model was constructed
to predict the survival probability of patients with HCC based on the results of Cox regression
analysis.

Results:

We demonstrated a positive correlation between oxidative stress and endoplasmic reticulum
stress in human HCC samples. We then identified five OESGs as a prognostic signature
consisting of IL18RAP, ECT2, PPARGC1A, STC2, and NQO1 for HCC. Related risk scores correlated
with tumor stage, grade, and response to transcatheter arterial chemoembolization therapy,
and the higher risk score group had less T cells, CD8+ T cells, cytotoxic lymphocytes and
natural killer cell infiltration. The C-index of our OESGs prognostic signature was superior to
four previously published signatures. Furthermore, we developed a nomogram based on the
OESGs prognostic signature and clinical parameters for patients with HCC that is an effective
quantitative analysis tool to predict patient survival.

Conclusion:

The OESGs signature showed excellent performance in predicting survival and
therapeutic responses for patients with HCC.
Patterns of Gene Expression Profiles Associated with Colorectal Cancer in Colorectal Mucosa by Using Machine Learning Methods
Authors: Ren Jing Xin , Chen Lei , Guo Wei , Feng Kai Yan , Cai Yu-Dong , Huang Tao
Published: November 2023

Background:

Colorectal cancer (CRC) has a very high incidence and lethality rate and
is one of the most dangerous cancer types. Timely diagnosis can effectively reduce the incidence
of colorectal cancer. Changes in para-cancerous tissues may serve as an early signal for tumorigenesis.
Comparison of the differences in gene expression between para-cancerous and normal
mucosa can help in the diagnosis of CRC and understanding the mechanisms of development.

Objectives:

This study aimed to identify specific genes at the level of gene expression, which are
expressed in normal mucosa and may be predictive of CRC risk.

Methods:

A machine learning approach was used to analyze transcriptomic data in 459 samples
of normal colonic mucosal tissue from 322 CRC cases and 137 non-CRC, in which each sample
contained 28,706 gene expression levels. The genes were ranked using four ranking methods
based on importance estimation (LASSO, LightGBM, MCFS, and mRMR) and four classification
algorithms (decision tree [DT], K-nearest neighbor [KNN], random forest [RF], and support
vector machine [SVM]) were combined with incremental feature selection [IFS] methods to construct
a prediction model with excellent performance.

Result:

The top-ranked genes, namely, HOXD12, CDH1, and S100A12, were associated with
tumorigenesis based on previous studies.

Conclusion:

This study summarized four sets of quantitative classification rules based on the DT
algorithm, providing clues for understanding the microenvironmental changes caused by CRC.
According to the rules, the effect of CRC on normal mucosa can be determined.
The Association between Vitamin D Deficiency and Changes in Cognitive
Functions in Chinese Older Adults: A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Li Tongtong , Chen Chong , Yuan Jing , Zhang Keming , Zhang Meilin , Zhao Huichao , Wu Xiaomin , Zhu Liping , Huang Guowei , Ma Fei
Published: November 2023

Background::

Along with the problem of population aging, the prevalence of dementia is gradually increasing. Associations between vitamin D deficiency (VDD) and cognitive functions remains controversial.

Objectives::

We aimed to determine the relationship between VDD and changes in cognitive performance in community-dwelling older adults.

Methods::

In this longitudinal cohort study, Chinese participants aged ≥65 years were enrolled in March 2016. The serum level of 25-hydroxy-vitamin D was analyzed by liquid-chromatography-tandem-mass-spectrometry at baseline. VDD was defined as less than 20ng/mL. All participants accomplished a health status questionnaire. Cognitive functions were evaluated by Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale-Revised in China at baseline and each visit. The linear mixed-effects model was utilized to examine the association between baseline VDD and changes in cognitive functions.

Results::

In total, 866 participants were included in our study, with a mean duration of 3 years. VDD was markedly associated with lower full intelligence quotient (FIQ) (β: -3.355, 95% confidence interval [CI]:-4.165,-2.545), verbal intelligence quotient (VIQ) (β: -3.420, 95%CI: -4.193,-2.647), performance intelligence quotient (PIQ) (β: -2.610, 95%CI: -3.683,-1.537), comprehension (β: -0.630, 95%CI: -1.022,-0.238), information (β: -0.354, 95%CI: -0.699,-0.008), arithmetic (β: -1.065, 95%CI: -1.228,-0.902), digit span (β: -0.370, 95%CI: -0.547,-0.192), vocabulary (β: -0.789, 95%CI: -1.083,-0.493), picture completion (β: -0.391, 95%CI: -0.761,-0.022), block design (β: -0.412, 95%CI: -0.697,-0.127), picture arrangement (β: -0.542, 95%CI: -0.909,-0.174) and object assembly (β: -0.492, 95%CI: -0.818,-0.165) than those with adequacy.

Conclusion::

A higher frequency of VDD was associated with lower scores of FIQ, VIQ, PIQ and
subtests on memory and executive function. Future randomized controlled trials are warranted to
further verify the conclusions
The Role of Vasodilator-stimulated Phosphoproteins in the Development
of Malignant Tumors
Authors: Gui Jiandong , Zhou Hangsheng , Wan Hongyuan , Yang Dongjie , Liu Qing , Zhu Lijie , Mi Yuanyuan
Published: November 2023

Vasodilator-stimulated phosphoprotein (VASP) is an actin-binding protein that includes
three structural domains: Enabled/VASP homolog1 (EVH1), EVH2, and proline-rich (PRR). VASP
plays an important role in various cellular behaviors related to cytoskeletal regulation. More importantly,
VASP plays a key role in the progression of several malignant tumors and is associated
with malignant cell proliferation, invasion, and metastasis. Here, we have summarized current studies
on the impact of VASP on the development of several malignant tumors and their mechanisms.
This study provides a new theoretical basis for clinical molecular diagnosis and molecular targeted
therapy.
The Relationship between COVID-19 Severity and Plasma Levels of
Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF)
Authors: Fekri Mitra Samareh , Barfzade Elham , Shafahi Ahmad , Farokhnia Mehrdad , Robati Fatemeh Karami , Movahedinia Sajjadeh , Dabiri Shariar
Published: November 2023

Background:

This study aimed to assess the relationship between COVID-19 severity
and the plasma levels of vascular endothelial growth factor.

Methods:

This cross-sectional study was conducted on 86 patients with COVID-19. A 5 ml venous
blood sample was taken on the first day of hospitalization. VEGF was measured with the
ELISA method using the Hangzhou East biopharm VEGF ELIZA Kit.

Results:

Although plasma VEGF levels were higher in the severe group than in the non-severe
group, no significant relationship was found between the plasma level of VEGF and
COVID-19 severity, which might be due to the small sample size. VEGF may be a valuable scientific
marker, but in this study, it was not as useful as other markers in identifying COVID-19
severity. In addition, there was a direct and significant relationship between COVID-19 severity
and the inflammatory markers LDH, neutrophil/lymph, and CRP. Therefore, measurement of inflammatory
markers can assist in the early identification and prediction of severity and disease
progression in COVID-19.

Conclusion:

Although plasma VEGF levels were higher in the severe group than in the non-severe
group, no significant relationship was found between the plasma level of VEGF and
COVID-19 severity, which might be due to the small sample size. VEGF may be a valuable scientific
marker, but in this study, it was not as useful as other markers in identifying COVID-19
severity. In addition, there was a direct and significant relationship between COVID-19 severity
and the inflammatory markers LDH, neutrophil/lymph, and CRP. Therefore, measurement of inflammatory
markers can assist in the early identification and prediction of severity and disease
progression in COVID-19.
A Comprehensive Review on Molecular Mechanism Involved in Arsenic Trioxide Mediated Cerebral Neurodegenerative and Infectious Diseases
Authors: Negi Vaishali , Singh Prabhat , Singh Lubhan , Pandey Rupesh Kumar , Kumar Sokindra
Published: November 2023

Arsenic is an environmental toxicant and its toxicity is a global health problem affecting
millions of people. Arsenic exposure occurs from natural geological sources leaching into aquifers,
contaminating drinking water and may also occur from mining and other industrial processes. Both
cancerous, noncancerous and immunological complications are possible after arsenic exposure. The
many other target organs like lungs, thymus, spleen, liver, heart, kidney, and brain. Arsenic-mediated
neuro, as well as immunotoxicity, is the main concern of this review. Long-term arsenic exposure can
lead to various neurological dysfunctions, which may cause neurobehavioral defects and biochemical
impairment in the brain, this might negatively affect one's quality of life in later stages. Arsenic also
alters the levels of various neurotransmitters such as serotonin, dopamine and norepinephrine in the
brain which produces neurotoxic effects and immunological deficiency. So, it is crucial to understand
the neurotoxic mechanism of arsenic trioxide-mediated cerebro neurodegenerative and immunerelated
alterations. One of the major mechanisms by which it exerts its toxic effect is through an impairment
of cellular respiration by inhibition of various mitochondrial enzymes, and the uncoupling
of oxidative phosphorylation. This review focuses on the various toxic mechanisms responsible for
arsenic-mediated neurobehavioral and immune-related changes. Therefore, this review provides a
critical analysis of mitochondrial dysfunctions, oxidative stress, glutamate excitatory, inflammatory
and apoptosis-related mechanistic aspects in arsenic-mediated immunotoxicity, neurotoxicity, and
neurodegenerative changes.
Innovative Nanomaterials for Targeting Hypoxia to Improve
Treatment for Triple-negative Breast Cancer
Authors: Ray Suman  Kumar , Mukherjee Sukhes
Published: November 2023

Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is an aggressive breast cancer with a
high rate of metastases, a short overall survival time, and a poor response to targeted therapy.
Improving tumor hypoxia by lowering the oxygen consumption rate of breast tumor
cells is a powerful strategy. A viable way to address this issue is to improve therapeutic
efficacy by improving the effectiveness of radiation and overcoming drug resistance in
TNBC treatment by controlling hypoxia in the tumor microenvironment. The failure of
radiation and chemotherapy in TNBC is frequently caused by hypoxia. In TNBC therapy,
novel nanomaterials are used for oxygen delivery or generation to affect the tumor microenvironment
to improve the effects of ionizing radiation using nanoplatforms. One of the
growing fields is novel nano-based drug delivery devices for hypoxic regions and hypoxia-
inducible factor-1 (HIF1) targeted therapeutics. Biocompatible nanoparticles may be
used in the treatment of TNBC patients in the clinic. Because of the rising market and
competition, intellectual property rights (IPR), patents, and tactics may be critically considered.
To better comprehend the current state of IPR and patents in cancer nanotechnology,
this overview examines recent advances and sophisticated protection measures in
this area.
Water Extract of Onion Catalyst: A Sustainable Approach for the Synthesis
of 4-Substituted 1,5-Benzodiazepine Derivatives via an In Situ Generated
Enaminones
Authors: Selvaraj Loganathan , Eswaran Rajendran , Natesan Vennila Kailasam , Muthu Seenivasa Perumal
Published: November 2023

Background:

A simple, convenient and environmentally benign green protocol has been
developed for the one-pot synthesis of 4-substituted-1,5-benzodiazepines through three-component
reaction of 1,2-diamine, 1,3-cyclic diketone with an aldehyde catalyzed by water extract of onion.
The reaction conditions were optimized and the scope of the reaction was extended to various 1,2-
diamines, 1,3-cyclic diketones and aldehydes. The main advantages of this method are good to
excellent yields, easy workup, simple experimental procedure, and an ability to tolerate a variety of
functional groups which gives cost-effective as well as green rewards. The structure of compound
5f was confirmed by single crystal X-ray analysis.

Objective:

A methodology developed for the synthesizing of 4-substituted 1,5-Benzodiazepine derivatives
via enaminones intermediates using 1,2-diamine, 1,3-cyclic diketone and aldehyde in environmentally
friendly ethanol as medium.

Methods:

As a more environmentally friendly catalyst for producing products containing benzodiazepines
using aqueous extract of onion. The devised method was proven reliable, non-toxic and
greener solvent with quick work-up to produce the intended product.

Results:

Here, using a one-pot, three-component reaction with a dimedone, 1,2-diamine and range
of aldehyde while using water extract of onion as a catalyst. The acquired experimental results
showed that the employed synthesis methodology is a straightforward procedure that offers various
benefits, including sustainability, easy separtion from the reaction medium.

Conclusion:

We have developed a sustainble approach for synthesizing benzodiazepine from radily
available precursors under mild reaction conditions.
Latin–Greek Code-Switching in Vicente Mariner’s (ca. 1570– 1642) Correspondence with Andreas Schott (1552–1629): A Case-Study
Authors: Barton William Michael
Published: November 2023

As one of very few authors from seventeenth-century Spain who chose to write in Ancient Greek, the work of Valencian Vicente Mariner (c.1570–1642) offers unique perspectives on the attitudes towards the classical languages in contemporary Iberia. Aside from a handful of published volumes, Mariner’s extensive, multilingual œuvre has been preserved in manuscript form. Mariner’s activity as a translator and Neo-Latin poet has been of interest to scholars from a variety of disciplines since the mid-twentieth century. The author’s deliberations on Ancient Greek, Latin and the vernaculars (Castilian and Valencian/Catalan) have also received the attention of theorists interested in the historical relationships between the classical and modern languages. More recently, Mariner’s poetic production in Greek has become the object of interest within the context of a turn to “Neo-Ancient Greek” literature.While earlier studies invariably reflect on the relationship between Greek and Latin in the author’s work and his attitudes towards them, Mariner’s bilingual correspondence with humanist friends and colleagues has yet to become the object of focused attention. As granular evidence the choices involved in Mariner’s use of Greek and Latin thanks to its numerous moments of code-switching, this paper offers a close-reading of a letter addressed by Mariner to prominent Belgian scholar André Schott (1552–1629) in April 1617. Alongside considerations of the communicative significance of the numerous switches between Latin and Greek in the document, this contribution also compares Mariner’s use of the languages in his letter with his theoretical reflections on Greek and Latin and their relationship in his poetry.
Ondermijnend bestuursrecht: De aanpak van georganiseerde criminaliteit op lokaal niveau
Authors: Tollenaar Albertjan
Published: November 2023

Het lokale bestuur wordt in toenemende mate geconfronteerd met de gevolgen van georganiseerde criminaliteit, resulterend in schietpartijen, explosies, ontmanteling van hennepplantages en drugslabs. Albertjan Tollenaar gaat in zijn oratie in op de instrumenten die een gemeentebestuur kan inzetten, en de effectiviteit hiervan. Wet Bibob Het gemeentebestuur heeft tal van bevoegdheden om georganiseerde criminaliteit een voet dwars te zetten, variërend van het sluiten van panden tot het intrekken van vergunningen en subsidies op grond van de Wet Bibob (Wet bevordering integriteitsbeoordelingen door het openbaar bestuur). Deze wet is in de loop der tijd uitgebreid en stelt bestuursorganen in staat om beschikkingen te weigeren of intrekken als er vermoedens van crimineel gebruik zijn. Complex Hoewel de Wet Bibob effectief kan zijn, is de toepassing ervan complex en vereist deze wet bijzondere expertise. Het verzamelen van informatie over mogelijke strafbare feiten, zelfs zonder dat daar een veroordeling aan ten grondslag ligt, en het afwegen van de evenredigheid van de toepassing van de wet, zijn ingewikkeld. Daar komt bij dat deze beslissingen verregaande gevolgen hebben, wat een indringende rechterlijke toets rechtvaardigt. Behoefte aan aanvullende instrumenten De rechter lijkt de laatste jaren inderdaad indringender naar deze beslissingen te kijken. Dat leidt tot onzekerheid bij het bestuursorgaan, waardoor toepassing van de Wet Bibob onaantrekkelijk wordt. Aan de andere kant komt de rechterlijke controle voor de burger veelal te laat. Zo wordt de keuze om een Bibob-onderzoek te starten niet achteraf getoetst. Daarom is er behoefte aan aanvullende instrumenten voor bestuurlijke controle. Dit leidt tot een pleidooi voor rechtstatelijke governance, waarbij alternatieve mechanismen worden geïmplementeerd om bestuursorganen beter toe te rusten bij de toepassing van het instrumentarium bij de aanpak van georganiseerde criminaliteit.
Feasibility and Usability of the Job Adjustment Mobile App for Pregnant Women: Longitudinal Observational Study
Authors: Wada Aya , Nakamura Yasuka , Kawajiri Maiko , Takeishi Yoko , Yoshida Mikako , Yoshizawa Toyoko
Published: November 2023

Background

Working pregnant women often need to adjust their physically demanding jobs for a healthy pregnancy. However, uncertainty about the extent of these adjustments can hinder their effectiveness. To address this, we developed the Job Adjustment mobile app, which allows users to input job and health details to generate a variety of personalized action plans. As this is the first version of the app, assessing its feasibility and usability is crucial.

Objective

This study aims to verify the feasibility and usability of the Job Adjustment mobile app.

Methods

A longitudinal observational study was conducted on pregnant Japanese women who were allowed to use the app anytime from 12 to 34 weeks of gestation; they received reminder emails every 2 weeks encouraging app use. A questionnaire was administered before app use and at 20 and 32 weeks of gestation. Feasibility was evaluated across 4 domains: implementation, demand, acceptability, and adverse events. Implementation was evaluated based on 3 parameters: dropout rate, initial reminder email receipt rate, and adherence rate (measured as pregnant women who used the app at intervals of 2.5 weeks or less). Demand was measured by intervals between use and intervals between log-in, and participants answered 15 questions to assess acceptability. Adverse events were assessed by analyzing the degree of anxiety related to work. Demographic data were analyzed to determine any statistically significant differences in intervals between uses. Usability was evaluated using the System Usability Scale.

Results

The analysis included 66 pregnant women, and 61% (n=40) of them were multipara. The dropout rate, adherence rate, and initial reminder email receipt rate were 18% (13/71), 44% (29/66), and 79% (52/66) respectively. The median intervals between use and intervals between log-in were 2.94 (IQR 2.00-5.13) weeks and 2.28 (IQR 1.81-4.00) weeks, respectively. Overall, 60% (35/58) to 90% (52/58) of the participants responded positively to all 15 questions assessing acceptability, and no anxiety regarding work was recorded. The mean System Usability Scale score was 66.1 points. Multipara women had significantly longer intervals between app use compared to primipara women (P=.01).

Conclusions

The results demonstrated acceptable levels of feasibility and usability of the app. However, the low adherence rates, especially among multipara women, suggest the need for modifications to reduce the time burden of the app. Further research should explore more effective and acceptable intervals between use and timing, involving a larger sample and accounting for diverse characteristics of pregnant women.

Trial Registration

UMIN Clinical Trials Registry UMIN000042943; https://tinyurl.com/ydrchfas