bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Olfactory Receptor OR2K2 Expression in Human Choroid Plexus as a Potential Marker in Early Sporadic Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Alves Victoria Cunha , Figueiro-Silva Joana , Trullas Ramon , Ferrer Isidre , Carro Eva
Published: March 2024

Epithelial cells comprising the choroid plexus (CP) form a crucial barrier between the blood and the cerebrospinal fluid, thereby assuming a central position in brain homeostasis and signaling. Mounting evidence suggests that the impairment of CP function may be a significant contributor to Alzheimer’s disease (AD) pathogenesis. CP function relies on the expression of specific receptors, and the potential involvement of olfactory receptors (ORs) and taste receptors (TASRs) in chemical surveillance within the CP is being investigated. Previous studies have implicated ORs and TASRs in neurodegenerative disorders like AD, although the direct evidence of their expression in the human CP remains to be established. In this study, we conducted a transcriptomic analysis encompassing eleven ORs and TASRs in the CP, comparing samples from healthy age-matched controls to those from patients with AD spanning Braak stages I to VI. Among these receptors, a striking finding emerged—OR2K2 exhibited robust expression, with a statistically significant upregulation noted at Braak stage I. Surprisingly, at the protein level, OR2K2 showed a significant decrease in both Braak stage I and VI. Additionally, we identified CP epithelial cells as the source of OR2K2 expression, where it colocalized with autophagy markers LC3 and p62. We postulate that OR2K2 could be subjected to degradation by autophagy in the early stages of AD, triggering a compensatory mechanism that leads to increased OR2K2 mRNA transcription. This study uncovers a potential role for OR2K2 in AD pathogenesis, offering a novel perspective on the intricate dynamics at play in this neurodegenerative disorder.
Wounding-Related Signaling Is Integrated within the Auxin-Response Framework to Induce Adventitious Rooting in Chestnut
Authors: Castro-Camba Ricardo , Vielba Jesús Mª , Rico Saleta , Covelo Purificación , Cernadas Mª José , Vidal Nieves , Sánchez Conchi
Published: March 2024

Wounding and exogenous auxin are needed to induce adventitious roots in chestnut microshoots. However, the specific inductive role of wounding has not been characterized in this species. In the present work, two main goals were established: First, we prompted to optimize exogenous auxin treatments to improve the overall health status of the shoots at the end of the rooting cycle. Second, we developed a time-series transcriptomic analysis to compare gene expression in response to wounding alone and wounding plus auxin, focusing on the early events within the first days after treatments. Results suggest that the expression of many genes involved in the rooting process is under direct or indirect control of both stimuli. However, specific levels of expression of relevant genes are only attained when both treatments are applied simultaneously, leading to the successful development of roots. In this sense, we have identified four transcription factors upregulated by auxin (CsLBD16, CsERF113, Cs22D and CsIAA6), with some of them also being induced by wounding. The highest expression levels of these genes occurred when wounding and auxin treatments were applied simultaneously, correlating with the rooting response of the shoots. The results of this work clarify the genetic nature of the wounding response in chestnut, its relation to adventitious rooting, and might be helpful in the development of more specific protocols for the vegetative propagation of this species.
Cyto-Histological Profile of MicroRNAs as Diagnostic Biomarkers in Differentiated Thyroid Carcinomas
Authors: Matos Maria de Lurdes , Pinto Mafalda , Alves Marta , Canberk Sule , Gonçalves Ana , Bugalho Maria João , Papoila Ana Luísa , Soares Paula
Published: March 2024

Introduction: The repertoire of microRNAs (miRNAs) in thyroid carcinomas starts to be elucidated. Among differentiated thyroid carcinomas (DTCs), papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) is the most frequent. The assessment of miRNAs expression may contribute to refine the pre-surgical diagnosis in order to obtain a personalized and more effective treatment for patients. Aims: This study aims to evaluate (1) the miRNAs in a series of DTCs, and their association with the presence of selected genetic mutations in order to improve diagnosis and predict the biologic behavior of DTC/PTC. (2) The reliability of molecular tests in Ultrasound-guided Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology (US-FNAC) for a more precise preoperative diagnosis. Material and Methods: This series includes 176 samples (98 cytology and 78 histology samples) obtained from 106 patients submitted to surgery, including 13 benign lesions (controls) and 93 DTCs (cases). The microRNA expression was assessed for miR-146b, miR-221, miR-222, and miR-15a through quantitative reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). The results were analyzed by the 2−ΔΔCT method, using miR16 as an endogenous control. Regarding PTC diagnosis, the discriminative ability of miRNAs expression was assessed by the area under the Receiver Operating Characteristic Curve (AUC). In PTCs, the association of miRNAs expression, clinicopathological features, and genetic mutations (BRAF, RAS, and TERTp) was evaluated. Results/Discussion: All the analyzed miRNAs presented a tendency to be overexpressed in DTCs/PTCs when compared with benign lesions, both in cytology and histology samples. In cytology, miRNAs expression levels were higher in malignant tumors than in benign tumors. In histology, the discriminative abilities regarding PTC diagnosis were as follows: miR-146b (AUC 0.94, 95% CI 0.87–1), miR-221 (AUC 0.79, 95% CI 0.68–0.9), miR-222 (AUC 0.76, 95% CI 0.63–0.89), and miR-15a (AUC 0.85, 95% CI 0.74–0.97). miR-146b showed 89% sensitivity (se) and 87% specificity (sp); miR-221 se = 68.4, sp = 90; miR-222 se = 73, sp = 70; and mi-R15a se = 72, sp = 80. MicroRNAs were associated with worst-prognosis clinicopathological characteristics in PTCs (p < 0.05), particularly for miR-222. Our data reveal a significant association between higher expression levels of miR-146b, miR-221, and miR-222 in the presence of the BRAF mutation (p < 0.001) and miR-146b (p = 0.016) and miR-221 (p = 0.010) with the RAS mutation, suggesting an interplay of these mutations with miRNAs expression. Despite this study having a relatively small sample size, overexpression of miRNAs in cytology may contribute to a more precise preoperative diagnosis. The miRNAs presented a good discriminative ability in PTC diagnosis. The association between the miRNAs expression profile and genetic alterations can be advantageous for an accurate diagnosis of DTCs/PTCs in FNAC.
Fitting of Growth Curves and Estimation of Genetic Relationship between Growth Parameters of Qianhua Mutton Merino
Authors: Li Jiarong , Shan Xuesong , Chen Yang , Xu Chongshun , Tang Lin , Jiang Huaizhi
Published: March 2024

Qianhua Mutton Merino is a dual-purpose (meat and wool) breed of sheep that has been newly developed in China. In this study, we assessed the growth and development of the Qianhua Mutton Merino sheep breed under house feeding conditions by measuring the body weight and chest circumference of 2300 rams and ewes of this breed aged 0–24 months. Based on the fitting results of three nonlinear growth models, namely Logistic, Gompertz, and von Bertalanffy, in Qianhua Mutton Merino, we selected the von Bertalanffy model because of its highest fitting degree among all models (R2 > 0.977). The significant analysis of the combined fixation of each sheep body’s weight and bust took place (A: mature body weight, B: adjustment parameter, K: instant relative growth rate). The results revealed that parameters A, B, and K of body weight and chest circumference have high heritability and thus could be used as target traits for genetic improvement. Moreover, the correlation strength among A, B, and K suggested that these parameters can be used as a reference to adjust the genetic parameters in the growth model to genetically improve the body size of Qianhua Mutton Merino during breeding.
Sleepiness and Vitamin D Levels in Patients with Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Authors: Archontogeorgis Kostas , Economou Nicholas-Tiberio , Bargiotas Panagiotis , Nena Evangelia , Voulgaris Athanasios , Chadia Konstantina , Trakada Georgia , Romigi Andrea , Steiropoulos Paschalis
Published: March 2024

Study Objectives: The aim of this cross-sectional study is to explore the association between serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] levels, a marker of Vitamin D status, and excessive daytime sleepiness (EDS), expressed as increased scores of the Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS), in a group of prospectively enrolled patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Methods: Newly diagnosed patients with OSA, divided into two groups, those with EDS (ESS > 10) and those without EDS (ESS < 10). All patients underwent night polysomnography. Measurement of serum 25(OH)D vitamin was performed using a radioimmunoassay. Results: In total, 217 patients with OSA (197 males and 20 females) were included. Patients with EDS had higher AHI (p < 0.001) values and lower mean serum 25(OH)D levels, compared with those of non-somnolent patients [17.4 (12.2–25.7) versus 21.1 (15.3–28.8) ng/mL, respectively, p = 0.005]. In patients with EDS, serum 25(OH)D levels correlated with average oxyhemoglobin saturation during sleep (r = 0.194, p = 0.043), and negatively with ESS score (r = −0.285, p = 0.003), AHΙ (r = −0.197, p = 0.040) and arousal index (r = −0.256, p = 0.019). Binary regression analysis identified Vit D serum levels (β = −0.045, OR: 0.956, 95% CI: 0.916–0.997, p = 0.035), total sleep time (β = 0.011, OR: 1.011, 95% CI: 1.002–1.021, p = 0.016) and AHI (β = 0.022, OR: 1.022, 95% CI: 1.003–1.043, p = 0.026) as independent predictors of EDS in patients with OSA. In patients with EDS, multiple regression analysis indicated that ESS score was negatively associated with Vit D serum levels (β = −0.135, p = 0.014) and minimum oxyhemoglobin saturation during sleep (β = −0.137, p = 0.043). Conclusions: In the present study, EDS in patients with OSA is associated with low levels of Vitamin D, while sleep hypoxia may play a role in this process.
Navigating Lymphomas through BCR Signaling and Double-Hit Insights: Overview
Authors: Argentiero Antonella , Andriano Alessandro , Marziliano Donatello , Desantis Vanessa
Published: March 2024

Non-Hodgkin’s lymphomas (NHLs) are a heterogeneous group of lymphoproliferative disorders originating from B, T, or NK lymphocytes. They represent approximately 4–5% of new cancer cases and are classified according to the revised WHO system based on cell lineage, morphology, immunophenotype, and genetics. Diagnosis requires adequate biopsy material, though integrated approaches are used for leukemic presentations. Molecular profiling is improving classification and identifying prognostic markers. Indolent NHLs, such as follicular lymphoma and marginal zone lymphoma, typically pursue a non-aggressive clinical course with long survival. Aggressive diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) is the most common subtype. Recent studies have elucidated pathogenic mechanisms like MYC translocations and BCR pathway mutations. “Double hit” lymphomas with MYC and BCL2/BCL6 alterations confer a poor prognosis. Treatment approaches are evolving, with chemoimmunotherapy remaining standard for many indolent cases while intensified regimens and targeted agents show promise for refractory or high-risk aggressive disease. Continued elucidation of the genetic and microenvironmental underpinnings of lymphomagenesis is critical for developing personalized therapeutic strategies.
Exploring Genetic Diversity and Phylogenetic Relationships in Camellia reticulata Cultivars Using Novel Low-Copy Nuclear Gene Markers
Authors: Xu Xiaodan , Gao Ya , Zheng Wei
Published: March 2024

This study delves into the exploration of genetic diversity and phylogenetic relationships within Camellia reticulata cultivars, providing a vital reference for horticultural research on this hetero-hexaploid species. Utilizing available transcriptome data from C. reticulata, novel low-copy nuclear gene sequences were successfully identified. With tailored primer design, these genes were amplified and sequenced from 100 C. reticulata cultivars originating from Kunming, Chuxiong, Dali, and Tengchong in China. Five distinct low-copy nuclear gene sequences were found to collectively span 3481 bp, showcasing 71 polymorphic mutation sites (Pi = 0.0077) and 91 haplotypes (Hd = 0.9974). The genetic diversity among cultivars from the four provenances ranked Tengchong > Dali > Kunming > Chuxiong. AMOVA analysis revealed that 96.50% of the genetic variation exists within the provenances. Low genetic distance and differentiation (Fst= 0.0199) were observed among cultivars from the four provenances. Ninety-nine cultivars were clustered into four clades, corresponding to the three ancestors of C. reticulata (diploid C. reticulata, C. pitardii, and C. saluenensis). The novel low-copy nuclear gene sequence markers developed in this study provide an effective tool for analyzing genetic diversity, phylogenetic relationships, and origination of C. reticulata cultivars.
Technical Feasibility Analysis of Advanced Monitoring with a Thermal Camera on an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle and Pressure Chamber for Water Status in Vineyards
Authors: Esteban-Sanchez Gonzalo , Campillo Carlos , Uriarte David , Moral Francisco J.
Published: March 2024

Water is a limiting factor and to adopt the most appropriate agronomic strategy it is necessary to know the water status. The objective is (i) analysing of the influence of different agronomic treatments on canopy temperature in vineyards with a thermal camera on an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), (ii) analysing of the influence of different agronomic treatments on vineyard water potentials with a pressure chamber, (iii) advanced technical feasibility analysis of vineyard crop monitoring. The control treatment (T07) in cv. Grenache consisted of applying 30% of reference evapotranspiration (ETo) with irrigation frequency every seven days and seven different treatments were proposed with different irrigation frequencies, pre-bud irrigation, and vine shoot distribution (T03, T15, T7A, T7V, T7P, T00, and T0P). As a result and in conclusion, the use of thermal cameras in UAVs and mid-day stem water potential allows differentiation between irrigated and unirrigated treatments, but no clear differences were shown between irrigation frequencies, pre-irrigation treatment, or vine shoot distribution. Comparing the thermal camera information in UAV and the stem water potential, certain patterns are identified with significant correlation values, the use of thermal cameras for the evaluation of plant water status is recommended, especially to obtain information in large areas.
A Temporal Fusion Transformer Model to Forecast Overflow from Sewer Manholes during Pluvial Flash Flood Events
Authors: Burrichter Benjamin , Koltermann da Silva Juliana , Niemann Andre , Quirmbach Markus
Published: March 2024

This study employs a temporal fusion transformer (TFT) for predicting overflow from sewer manholes during heavy rainfall events. The TFT utilised is capable of forecasting overflow hydrographs at the manhole level and was tested on a sewer network with 975 manholes. As part of the investigations, the TFT was compared to other deep learning architectures to evaluate its predictive performance. In addition to precipitation measurements and forecasts, the issue of how the additional consideration of measurements in the sewer network as model inputs impacts forecast accuracy was investigated. A varying number of sensors and different measurement signals were compared. The results indicate high performance for the TFT compared to other model architectures like a long short-term memory (LSTM) network or a dual-stage attention-based recurrent neural network (DA-RNN). Additionally, results suggest that considering a single measuring point at the outlet of the sewer network instead of an entire measuring network yields better forecasts. One possible explanation is the high correlation between measurements, which increases model and training complexity without adding much value.
Identification of an Intravenous Injectable NK1 Receptor Antagonist for Use in Traumatic Brain Injury
Authors: Vink Robert , Nimmo Alan
Published: March 2024

Traumatic brain injuries represent a leading cause of death and disability in the paediatric and adult populations. Moderate-to-severe injuries are associated with blood–brain barrier dysfunction, the development of cerebral oedema, and neuroinflammation. Antagonists of the tachykinin NK1 receptor have been proposed as potential agents for the post-injury treatment of TBI. We report on the identification of EUC-001 as a potential clinical candidate for development as a novel TBI therapy. EUC-001 is a selective NK1 antagonist with a high affinity for the human NK1 receptor (Ki 5.75 × 10−10 M). It has sufficient aqueous solubility to enable intravenous administration, whilst still retaining good CNS penetration as evidenced by its ability to inhibit the gerbil foot-tapping response. Using an animal model of TBI, the post-injury administration of EUC-001 was shown to restore BBB function in a dose-dependent manner. EUC-001 was also able to ameliorate cerebral oedema. These effects were associated with a significant reduction in post-TBI mortality. In addition, EUC-001 was able to significantly reduce functional deficits, both motor and cognitive, that normally follow a severe injury. EUC-001 is proposed as an ideal candidate for clinical development for TBI.
Interactions between Gut Microbiota and Oral Antihyperglycemic Drugs: A Systematic Review
Authors: Mindrescu Nicoleta Mihaela , Guja Cristian , Jinga Viorel , Ispas Sorina , Curici Antoanela , Nelson Twakor Andreea , Pantea Stoian Anca Mihaela
Published: March 2024

The intestinal microbiota refers to the collection of microorganisms that exist in the human gut. It has been said that bacteria influence the development of metabolic diseases, such as diabetes mellitus, as they have roles in immunomodulation, protection against pathogens, blood vessel growth, repairing the intestinal wall, and the development of the neurological system. In this review, we look at the latest research regarding interactions between gut microbiota and oral antihyperglycemic drugs and we present data suggesting that the microbiome may help counteract the reduced glucose tolerance and insulin resistance associated with metabolic disorders. We found that antidiabetic drugs can have significant impacts on gut microbiota composition and function, potentially influencing both the efficacy and side effects of these medications. Additionally, we discovered that microbial-based therapeutics, including probiotics, prebiotics, and postbiotics, and fecal microbiota can be considered when discussing preventive measures and personalized treatment options for type 2 diabetes mellitus. Understanding how antidiabetic drugs modulate gut microbiota composition and function is essential for optimizing their therapeutic efficacy and minimizing potential adverse effects. The relationship between the gut microbiota and glycemic agents, not fully understood, is currently the subject of increasing research and discussion. It has been proven that the microbiome can impact the effectiveness of the medications, but further research in this field may uncover novel therapeutic strategies for diabetes and other metabolic disorders by targeting the gut microbiota.
PPR596 Is Required for nad2 Intron Splicing and Complex I Biogenesis in Arabidopsis
Authors: Sayyed Aqib , Chen Baoyin , Wang Yong , Cao Shi-Kai , Tan Bao-Cai
Published: March 2024

Mitochondria are essential organelles that generate energy via oxidative phosphorylation. Plant mitochondrial genome encodes some of the respiratory complex subunits, and these transcripts require accurate processing, including C-to-U RNA editing and intron splicing. Pentatricopeptide repeats (PPR) proteins are involved in various organellar RNA processing events. PPR596, a P-type PPR protein, was previously identified to function in the C-to-U editing of mitochondrial rps3 transcripts in Arabidopsis. Here, we demonstrate that PPR596 functions in the cis-splicing of nad2 intron 3 in mitochondria. Loss of the PPR596 function affects the editing at rps3eU1344SS, impairs nad2 intron 3 splicing and reduces the mitochondrial complex I’s assembly and activity, while inducing alternative oxidase (AOX) gene expression. This defect in nad2 intron splicing provides a plausible explanation for the slow growth of the ppr595 mutants. Although a few P-type PPR proteins are involved in RNA C-to-U editing, our results suggest that the primary function of PPR596 is intron splicing.
Gender-Specific Renoprotective Pathways in αMUPA Transgenic Mice Subjected to Acute Kidney Injury
Authors: Alkhaleq Heba Abd , Hamoud Shadi , Hacker Israel , Karram Tony , Fokra Ahmad , Kabala Aviva , Abassi Zaid
Published: March 2024

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a serious health concern with high morbidity and high mortality worldwide. Recently, sexual dimorphism has become increasingly recognized as a factor influencing the severity of the disease. This study explores the gender-specific renoprotective pathways in αMUPA transgenic mice subjected to AKI. αMUPA transgenic male and female mice were subjected to ischemia–reperfusion (I/R)-AKI in the presence or absence of orchiectomy, oophorectomy, and L-NAME administration. Blood samples and kidneys were harvested 48 h following AKI for the biomarkers of kidney function, renal injury, inflammatory response and intracellular pathway sensing of or responding to AKI. Our findings show differing responses to AKI, where female αMUPA mice were remarkably protected against AKI as compared with males, as was evident by the lower SCr and BUN, normal renal histologically and attenuated expression of NGAL and KIM-1. Moreover, αMUPA females did not show a significant change in the renal inflammatory and fibrotic markers following AKI as compared with wild-type (WT) mice and αMUPA males. Interestingly, oophorectomized females eliminated the observed resistance to renal injury, highlighting the central protective role of estrogen. Correspondingly, orchiectomy in αMUPA males mitigated their sensitivity to renal damage, thereby emphasizing the devastating effects of testosterone. Additionally, treatment with L-NAME proved to have significant deleterious impacts on the renal protective mediators, thereby underscoring the involvement of eNOS. In conclusion, gender-specific differences in the response to AKI in αMUPA mice include multifaceted and keen interactions between the sex hormones and key biochemical mediators (such as estrogen, testosterone and eNOS). These novel findings shed light on the renoprotective pathways and mechanisms, which may pave the way for development of therapeutic interventions.
Special Issue “COVID-19 Coagulopathy: Advances on Pathophysiology and Therapies”
Authors: Russu Eliza , Arbănaşi Emil-Marian , Șchiopu Alexandru
Published: March 2024

The Special Issue on COVID-19 coagulopathy initiated one year ago aimed to shed light on the mechanisms underlying the changes in the coagulation status making SARS-CoV-2 infection such a tough adversary for every one of the medical specialties encountering it, along with overseeing the therapeutic applications derived from the current understanding of these mechanisms [...]
Secure and Fast Image Encryption Algorithm Based on Modified Logistic Map
Authors: Riaz Mamoon , Dilpazir Hammad , Naseer Sundus , Mahmood Hasan , Anwar Asim , Khan Junaid , Benitez Ian B. , Ahmad Tanveer
Published: March 2024

In the past few decades, the transmission of data over an unsecure channel has resulted in an increased rate of hacking. The requirement to make multimedia data more secure is increasing day by day. Numerous algorithms have been developed to improve efficiency and robustness in the encryption process. In this article, a novel and secure image encryption algorithm is presented. It is based on a modified chaotic logistic map (CLM) that provides the advantage of taking less computational time to encrypt an input image. The encryption algorithm is based on Shannon’s idea of using a substitution–permutation and one-time pad network to achieve ideal secrecy. The CLM is used for substitution and permutation to improve randomness and increase dependency on the encryption key. Various statistical tests are conducted, such as keyspace analysis, complexity analysis, sensitivity analysis, strict avalanche criteria (SAC), histogram analysis, entropy analysis, mean of absolute deviation (MAD) analysis, correlation analysis, contrast analysis and homogeneity, to give a comparative analysis of the proposed algorithm and verify its security. As a result of various statistical tests, it is evident that the proposed algorithm is more efficient and robust as compared to previous ones.
A C-Type Lectin, RfCTL27, Activates the Immune Defense in the Red Palm Weevil Rhynchophorus ferrugineus (A.G. Olivier, 1791) (Coleoptera: Curculionidae: Dryophthorinae) by the Recognition of Gram-Negative Bacteria
Authors: Gong Yanru , Xia Yongjian , Su Zhiping , Wang Xinghong , Kou Yishuo , Ma Bing , Hou Youming , Shi Zhanghong
Published: March 2024

Red palm weevil, Rhynchophorus ferrugineus (Olivier), is a palm tree insect pest that causes significant damage in the many countries from the Indian sub-continent and southeast Asia into date palm-growing countries of Africa, the Middle East, and the Mediterranean Basin. This study is aimed at determining the role of a C-type lectin, RfCTL27, in the immune defense of RPW larvae. RfCTL27 is a secreted protein that possesses a QPD motif, being integral for the discrimination of Gram-negative bacteria. The abundance of RfCTL27 transcripts in the gut and fat body was significantly higher than that in other tissues. Six hours after injection of Escherichia coli, the expression level of RfCTL27 in the gut of RPW larvae was significantly elevated compared with other groups. At 12 h after injection of E. coli, the expression of RfCTL27 in fat body was dramatically induced in contrast with other treatments. More interestingly, the ability of RPW larvae to clear the pathogenic bacteria in the body cavity and gut was markedly impaired by the silencing of RfCTL27. Additionally, the expression levels of two antimicrobial peptide genes, RfCecropin in the gut and RfDefensin in fat body of RPW larvae, were significantly decreased. Taken together, these data suggested that RfCTL27 can recognize the Gram-negative bacterium and activate the expression of antimicrobial peptides to remove the invaded bacterial pathogens. This study provides a new scientific basis for improving the control efficiency of pathogenic microorganisms against red palm weevils in production practice.
Cardiac Allograft Vasculopathy: Challenges and Advances in Invasive and Non-Invasive Diagnostic Modalities
Authors: Kamel Moaz A. , Scalia Isabel G. , Badr Amro T. , Baba Ali Nima , Farina Juan M. , Pereyra Milagros , Abbas Mohammed Tiseer , Mahmoud Ahmed K. , Scott Robert L. , Steidley David E. , Rosenthal Julie L. , Lemond Lisa M. , Sell-Dottin Kristen A. , Hardaway Brian W. , Barry Timothy , Yang Ming , Chao Chieh-Ju , Jokerst Clinton E. , Ayoub Chadi , Arsanjani Reza
Published: March 2024

Cardiac allograft vasculopathy (CAV) is a distinct form of coronary artery disease that represents a major cause of death beyond the first year after heart transplantation. The pathophysiology of CAV is still not completely elucidated; it involves progressive circumferential wall thickening of both the epicardial and intramyocardial coronary arteries. Coronary angiography is still considered the gold-standard test for the diagnosis of CAV, and intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) can detect early intimal thickening with improved sensitivity. However, these tests are invasive and are unable to visualize and evaluate coronary microcirculation. Increasing evidence for non-invasive surveillance techniques assessing both epicardial and microvascular components of CAV may help improve early detection. These include computed tomography coronary angiography (CTCA), single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT), positron emission tomography (PET), and vasodilator stress myocardial contrast echocardiography perfusion imaging. This review summarizes the current state of diagnostic modalities and their utility and prognostic value for CAV and also evaluates emerging tools that may improve the early detection of this complex disease.
Editorial for the Special Issue on Carbon Fiber Composites
Authors: Zhu Jiadeng , Li Guoqing , Kang Lixing
Published: March 2024

Carbon fibers (CFs) have received tremendous attention since their discovery in the 1860s due to their unique properties, including outstanding mechanical properties, low density, excellent chemical resistance, good thermal conductivity, etc [...]
Advancements in Biomedical Applications of Calcium Phosphate Glass and Glass-Based Devices—A Review
Authors: Pandayil Jawad , Boetti Nadia , Janner Davide
Published: March 2024

Calcium phosphate (CaP) glass has recently gained popularity as a promising material for a wide range of biomedical applications. Recent developments have seen CaP glasses moving from a passive implant material to an active degradable material, particularly as a major constituent of bioresorbable photonic devices. This holds great promise in advanced biomedical applications, since the main constituents of CaP glasses are present in the human body. In this review, the progressive advancements in the biomedical applications of calcium phosphate glass-based devices over the past 50 years are discussed. An overview of their role as reinforcing agents and the studies on doping their matrices for ion releasing and drug and gene delivery are reviewed. Recent applications of CaP glass and fibers in soft-tissue engineering and their potential for optical quality bioresorbable devices are then discussed along with the current challenges and potential future directions, emphasizing the promising role of CaP glass in the next generation of biomaterials. Considering their progress and potential in performing several biomedical functionalities over time, CaP glass-based devices hold promise for becoming enabling tools as an implantable, bioresorbable, multifunctional class of devices in future biomedicine.
Pestalotiopsis jiangsuensis sp. nov. Causing Needle Blight on Pinus massoniana in China
Authors: Li Hui , Peng Bing-Yao , Xie Jun-Ya , Bai Yu-Qing , Li De-Wei , Zhu Li-Hua
Published: March 2024

Pinus massoniana Lamb. is an important, common afforestation and timber tree species in China. Species of Pestalotiopsis are well-known pathogens of needle blight. In this study, the five representative strains were isolated from needle blight from needles of Pi. massoniana in Nanjing, Jiangsu, China. Based on multi-locus phylogenetic analyses of the three genomic loci (ITS, TEF1, and TUB2), in conjunction with morphological characteristics, a new species, namely Pestalotiopsis jiangsuensis sp. nov., was described and reported. Pathogenicity tests revealed that the five representative strains of the species described above were pathogenic to Pi. massoniana. The study revealed the diversity of pathogenic species of needle blight on Pi. massoniana. This is the first report of needle blight caused by P. jiangsuensis on Pi. massoniana in China and worldwide. This provides useful information for future research on management strategies of this disease.
Nailing down Clinical Nuances. Comment on Crotti et al. A Terbinafine Sensitive Trichophyton indotineae Strain in Italy: The First Clinical Case of tinea corporis and onychomycosis. J. Fungi 2023, 9, 865
Authors: Navarro-Fernandez Inigo
Published: March 2024

I have read the paper “A Terbinafine Sensitive Trichophyton indotineae Strain in Italy: The First Clinical Case of tinea corporis and onychomycosis” by Crotti et al [...]
Photoprotection and Skin Cancer on X/Twitter: Analysis of Misinformation, Communication Challenges, and Attitudes in the Spanish Community
Authors: Fuentes-Lara Cristina , Poch Butler Santana Lois , Humanes María Luisa , Jiménez Sánchez Lara
Published: March 2024

This paper delves into the challenges faced by scientists to effectively communicate regarding photoprotection and skin cancer as a result of the pervasive, harmful effects of disinforming messages. In order to do so, the Spanish population’s understanding of photoprotection and skin cancer is examined. This paper is as an extension of the COMUNICANCER initiative, the ultimate goal of which is to establish protocols for producing and disseminating accurate content that raises the awareness of skin cancer-related dangers, as well as transferring knowledge on health prevention. Therefore, we have monitored the prevalence of misinformation and lack of information regarding sun photoprotection in Spain, aiming to reflect, ultimately, on the added difficulties faced by the scholarly community to disseminate accurate content in today’s communication environment, which has become even more complex due to the distorting influence of disinformation. Employing a quantitative methodology, the research involved a comprehensive analysis of 2498 Spanish-language tweets related to skin cancer and photoprotection collected between August 2021 and August 2022. The study proves that scientists face a social media landscape, particularly on X/Twitter, where there is not only a lack of comprehensive information on the various dimensions of skin cancer, its prevention, and treatment, but which also serves as a breeding ground for the dissemination of inaccurate and misleading information regarding sun-related health risks and preventive measures. This leads to an urgent need to develop strategies aimed at fostering comprehensive and accurate information dissemination, especially regarding health information, due to the critical effect this can have on people and public health systems.
Oxygen–Ozone Therapy of Musculoskeletal Neck Pain: A Review
Authors: Jandura Jiri , Vajda Milan , Cech Michal , Ryska Pavel
Published: March 2024

Minimally invasive oxygen–ozone (O2-O3) therapy utilizing the biochemical effects of O2-O3 mixture is commonly used in the treatment of musculoskeletal pain. The literature dealing with O2-O3 therapy of spinal pain focuses mainly on the lumbosacral region. The aim of this review is to evaluate the efficacy of O2-O3 therapy in musculoskeletal pain in the neck region. The Medline (PubMed), SCOPUS, Web of Science, and Google Scholar databases were searched for clinical studies, using the free text terms: ozone, neck, cervical, spine, pain, disc, hernia, nucleolysis, paravertebral, treatment, and various combinations of them. In total, seven studies (two randomized controlled trials and five observational studies) were found. These studies dealt with the intradiscal or intramuscular paravertebral application of O2-O3 mixture in patients with myofascial pain syndrome, cervical disc hernias, and chronic neck pain. All these studies proved a significant decrease in neck pain (evaluated by Visual Analog Scale or Numerical Rating Scale), and most of them showed improvement in functional status (measured by Oswestry Disability Index or Neck Disability Index). In addition, other pain assessment scales and function and quality of life measures (DN4 questionnaire, pain pressure threshold, cervical lateral flexion range of motion, Japanese Orthopedic Association scale, 12- and 36-Item Short Form Surveys, modified MacNab criteria, and analgesic drug intake reduction) were used. Changes in these measurements also mostly supported the efficacy of O2-O3 treatment. No significant complications of the treatment were reported. The available evidence is sparse, but despite this, the O2-O3 treatment of musculoskeletal neck pain can be considered potentially beneficial and relatively safe.
Segmenting Bitcoin Transactions for Price Movement Prediction
Authors: Zhang Yuxin , Garg Rajiv , Golden Linda L. , Brockett Patrick L. , Sharma Ajit
Published: March 2024

Cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin have received substantial attention from financial exchanges. Unfortunately, arbitrage-based financial market price prediction models are ineffective for cryptocurrencies. In this paper, we utilize standard machine learning models and publicly available transaction data in blocks to predict the direction of Bitcoin price movement. We illustrate our methodology using data we merged from the Bitcoin blockchain and various online sources. This gave us the Bitcoin transaction history (block IDs, block timestamps, transaction IDs, senders’ addresses, receivers’ addresses, transaction amounts), as well as the market exchange price, for the period from 13 September 2011 to 5 May 2017. We show that segmenting publicly available transactions based on investor typology helps achieve higher prediction accuracy compared to the existing Bitcoin price movement prediction models in the literature. This transaction segmentation highlights the role of investor types in impacting financial markets. Managerially, the segmentation of financial transactions helps us understand the role of financial and cryptocurrency market participants in asset price movements. These findings provide further implications for risk management, financial regulation, and investment strategies in this new era of digital currencies.
The Impact of CEO Characteristics on the Financial Performance of Family Businesses Listed in the Euronext Exchange
Authors: El Abiad Zouhour , Abraham Rebecca , El-Chaarani Hani , Skaf Yahya , Binsaddig Ruaa Omar , Jafar Syed Hasan
Published: March 2024

This paper identifies the CEO characteristics that have an impact on the performance of family businesses listed in the Euronext in the post-COVID 19 period. CEO characteristics are evaluated on two dimensions, i.e., personal characteristics and corporate governance mechanisms. A sample of 137 firm-year observations from Portugal, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Ireland, France, and Belgium was chosen. CEO attributes of age, gender, education, and family membership were combined with corporate governance mechanisms of ownership concentration, CEO duality, CEO directorships, and CEO tenure, to predict return on assets and return on equity, using OLS regression. GMM estimation and Two-Stage Least Squares were employed to establish the robustness of the results. Among CEO personal characteristics, CEO family membership has a positive impact on return on assets, and a positive impact on return on equity. Among corporate governance mechanisms, CEO duality had a negative impact on return on assets, and a negative impact on return on equity. CEO ownership, and CEO tenure had a positive impact on return on assets, and a positive impact on return on equity. This paper’s value lies in its evaluation of the under-researched area of family businesses of Euronext-listed firms. It can be used by family businesses in the region, for the selection and training of CEOs to fulfill the goal of achieving superior financial performance.
Phonetic and Phonological Research in Mai-Ndombe: A Few Preliminary Notes on Rhotics and Double-Articulations
Authors: Maselli Lorenzo
Published: March 2024

Mai-Ndombe is one of the southwestern provinces of the Democratic Republic of Congo. Ecologically, it can be characterised as a transition zone between a moist, broadleaf rainforest ecotone in the north and shrubland/savannah areas in the south. Linguistically, Mai-Ndombe, along with the rest of southwestern Congo all the way down to the border with Angola, is among the least well-surveyed areas of the planet. Within its borders, several different Bantu (Guthrie’s zones B, C, and H) varieties are spoken, near the newly identified West-Coastal Bantu homeland, itself a hot spot of phonological diversity unlike any other in the West-Coastal Bantu domain. Phonetic and phonological accounts of its languages are particularly lacking (apart from impressionistic “grey literature” reports which seldom comply with the standards of present-day phonetic and phonological inquiry). This gap is particularly concerning as Mai-Ndombe is also an area of great anthropological diversity, with numerous hunter-gatherer Twa communities living deep in its eastern and northern forests. Their lects, collectively known as Lotwa, are severely endangered, as they face the threats of social stigma and the growing use of national and regional linguae francae. As part of the author’s doctoral project (still underway), phonetic data were collected in the area between May and July 2021, specifically in Inongo (the provincial capital) and Nioki. The present contribution is intended as a brief note on the relevant results produced so far, mainly bearing on the analysis of some phenomena of interest in the languages of the region, including Sakata rhotics and labial–velars and the presence of unusual trilling/flapping realisations in Lotwa. The picture yielded by this preliminary exploration is one of striking phonetic and phonological variation, possibly pointing to earlier stages of greater linguistic diversity than previously supposed. It is also tentatively proposed that one of the specific characteristics of the phenomena attested in the present contribution is that they tend to affect more than one language at a time, working rather as areal “phonetic possibilities” than language-bound outcomes of traditional sound change rules; in this sense, it is suggested that in-depth documentation and description can help broaden our understanding of how language contact works in highly multilingual contexts.
Chronic Kidney Disease with Mineral Bone Disorder and Vascular Calcification: An Overview
Authors: Izzo Carmine , Secondulfo Carmine , Bilancio Giancarlo , Visco Valeria , Virtuoso Nicola , Migliarino Serena , Ciccarelli Michele , Di Pietro Paola , La Mura Lucia , Damato Antonio , Carrizzo Albino , Vecchione Carmine
Published: March 2024

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a global health issue with a rising prevalence, affecting 697.5 million people worldwide. It imposes a substantial burden, contributing to 35.8 million disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) and 1.2 million deaths in 2017. The mortality rate for CKD has increased by 41.5% between 1990 and 2017, positioning it as a significant cause of global mortality. CKD is associated with diverse health complications, impacting cardiovascular, neurological, nutritional, and endocrine aspects. One prominent complication is CKD–mineral and bone disorder (MBD), a complex condition involving dysregulation of bone turnover, mineralization, and strength, accompanied by soft tissue and vascular calcification. Alterations in mineral metabolism, including calcium, phosphate, parathyroid hormone (PTH), vitamin D, fibroblast growth factor-23 (FGF-23), and Klotho, play pivotal roles in CKD-MBD. These disturbances, observed early in CKD, contribute to the progression of bone disorders and renal osteodystrophy (ROD). Vascular calcification (VC) is a key component of CKD-MBD, accelerated by CKD. The pathophysiology involves complex processes in vascular smooth muscle cells and the formation of calciprotein particles (CPP). VC is closely linked to cardiovascular events and mortality, emphasizing its prognostic significance. Various serum markers and imaging techniques, including lateral plain X-ray, Kauppila Score, Adragao Score, and pulse wave velocity, aid in VC detection. Additionally, pQCT provides valuable information on arterial calcifications, offering an advantage over traditional scoring systems. CKD poses a substantial global health burden, and its complications, including CKD-MBD and VC, significantly contribute to morbidity and mortality. Understanding the intricate relationships between mineral metabolism, bone disorders, and vascular calcification is crucial for effective diagnosis and therapeutic interventions.
Three-Step Synthesis of N-(7-chloro-4-morpholinoquinolin-2-yl)benzamide from 4,7-Dichloroquinoline
Authors: Aparicio Acevedo Deiby F. , Ortiz Villamizar Marlyn C. , Kouznetsov Vladimir V.
Published: March 2024

The quinoline derivative, N-(7-chloro-4-morpholinoquinolin-2-yl)benzamide, was synthesized in a conventional three-step procedure from 4,7-dichloroquinoline using a N-oxidation reaction/C2-amide formation reaction/C4 SNAr reaction sequence. The structure of the compound was fully characterized by FT-IR, 1H-, 13C-NMR, DEPT-135°, and ESI-MS techniques. Its physicochemical parameters (Lipinski’s descriptors) were also calculated using the online SwissADME database. Such derivatives are relevant therapeutic agents exhibiting potent anticancer, antibacterial, antifungal, and antiparasitic properties.
The Influence of an Unsupported Sleeper on the Vertical Bearing Characteristics of Heavy-Haul Railway Ballast
Authors: Liu Dan , Su Chengguang , Zhang Dawei , Lan Caihao
Published: March 2024

In order to study the influence of an unsupported sleeper on the vertical bearing characteristics of heavy-haul railway ballast, a three-dimensional discrete element model (DEM) was established for a ballasted track, by removing ballast particles that come into contact with the bottom of the sleeper from the model to simulate the unsupported sleeper. Vertical bearing characteristics for ballast on different types of unsupported sleepers were studied. The results showed that an unsupported sleeper could reduce the bearing area of the ballast below the sleeper and reduce the number of ballast particles that were in contact. It could also lead to an increase in the maximum contact force between the particles, accelerating the deterioration of the particles (thus affecting the overall performance of the ballast) and reducing the vertical stiffness of the ballast. As the unsupported length and width increased, vertical stiffness gradually decreased. The vertical ballast stiffness for an unsupported sleeper was then used in a dynamic coupled vehicle/track model, and the effect of the unsupported sleeper on wheel/rail interaction was analyzed. Results showed that increasing the unsupported length and width leads to a decrease in the supporting force on the unsupported sleeper and to an increase in the supporting force on the adjacent sleepers.
Modeling of Magnetic Films: A Scientific Perspective
Authors: Misiurev Denis , Holcman Vladimír
Published: March 2024

Magnetic thin-film modeling stands as a dynamic nexus of scientific inquiry and technological advancement, poised at the vanguard of materials science exploration. Leveraging a diverse suite of computational methodologies, including Monte Carlo simulations and molecular dynamics, researchers meticulously dissect the intricate interplay governing magnetism and thin-film growth across heterogeneous substrates. Recent strides, notably in multiscale modeling and machine learning paradigms, have engendered a paradigm shift in predictive capabilities, facilitating a nuanced understanding of thin-film dynamics spanning disparate spatiotemporal regimes. This interdisciplinary synergy, complemented by avantgarde experimental modalities such as in situ microscopy, promises a tapestry of transformative advancements in magnetic materials with far-reaching implications across multifaceted domains including magnetic data storage, spintronics, and magnetic sensing technologies. The confluence of computational modeling and experimental validation heralds a new era of scientific rigor, affording unparalleled insights into the real-time dynamics of magnetic films and bolstering the fidelity of predictive models. As researchers chart an ambitiously uncharted trajectory, the burgeoning realm of magnetic thin-film modeling burgeons with promise, poised to unlock novel paradigms in materials science and engineering. Through this intricate nexus of theoretical elucidation and empirical validation, magnetic thin-film modeling heralds a future replete with innovation, catalyzing a renaissance in technological possibilities across diverse industrial landscapes.