bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Organic Selenium on the Homeostasis of Trace Elements, Lipid Peroxidation, and mRNA Expression of Antioxidant Proteins in Mouse Organs
Authors: Staneviciene Inga , Levinas Dovydas , Sadauskiene Ilona , Liekis Arunas , Viezeliene Dale , Kursvietiene Lolita , Naginiene Rima , Baranauskiene Dale , Simakauskiene Vaida , Vaitkiene Paulina , Miniotaite Giedre , Sulinskiene Jurgita
Published: June 2023

(1) In this study we determined the effect of long-term selenomethionine administration on the oxidative stress level and changes in antioxidant protein/enzyme activity; mRNA expression; and the levels of iron, zinc, and copper. (2) Experiments were performed on 4–6-week-old BALB/c mice, which were given selenomethionine (0.4 mg Se/kg b.w.) solution for 8 weeks. The element concentration was determined via inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. mRNA expression of SelenoP, Cat, and Sod1 was quantified using real-time quantitative reverse transcription. Malondialdehyde content and catalase activity were determined spectrophotometrically. (3) After long-term SeMet administration, the amount of Se increased by 12-fold in mouse blood, 15-fold in the liver, and 42-fold in the brain, as compared to that in the control. Exposure to SeMet decreased amounts of Fe and Cu in blood, but increased Fe and Zn levels in the liver and increased the levels of all examined elements in the brain. Se increased malondialdehyde content in the blood and brain but decreased it in liver. SeMet administration increased the mRNA expression of selenoprotein P, dismutase, and catalase, but decreased catalase activity in brain and liver. (4) Eight-week-long selenomethionine consumption elevated Se levels in the blood, liver, and especially in the brain and disturbed the homeostasis of Fe, Zn, and Cu. Moreover, Se induced lipid peroxidation in the blood and brain, but not in the liver. In response to SeMet exposure, significant up-regulation of the mRNA expression of catalase, superoxide dismutase 1, and selenoprotein P in the brain, and especially in the liver, was determined.
Potential Chemopreventive Role of Pterostilbene in Its Modulation of the Apoptosis Pathway
Authors: Surien Omchit , Masre Siti Fathiah , Basri Dayang Fredalina , Ghazali Ahmad Rohi
Published: June 2023

Cancer incidence keeps increasing every year around the world and is one of the leading causes of death worldwide. Cancer has imposed a major burden on the human population, including the deterioration of physical and mental health as well as economic or financial loss among cancer patients. Conventional cancer treatments including chemotherapy, surgery, and radiotherapy have improved the mortality rate. However, conventional treatments have many challenges; for example, drug resistance, side effects, and cancer recurrence. Chemoprevention is one of the promising interventions to reduce the burden of cancer together with cancer treatments and early detection. Pterostilbene is a natural chemopreventive compound with various pharmacological properties such as anti-oxidant, anti-proliferative, and anti-inflammatory properties. Moreover, pterostilbene, due to its potential chemopreventive effect on inducing apoptosis in eliminating the mutated cells or preventing the progression of premalignant cells to cancerous cells, should be explored as a chemopreventive agent. Hence, in the review, we discuss the role of pterostilbene as a chemopreventive agent against various types of cancer via its modulation of the apoptosis pathway at the molecular levels.
Biostimulant Properties of Protein Hydrolysates: Recent Advances and Future Challenges
Authors: Malécange Marthe , Sergheraert Renaud , Teulat Béatrice , Mounier Emmanuelle , Lothier Jérémy , Sakr Soulaiman
Published: June 2023

Over the past decade, plant biostimulants have been increasingly used in agriculture as environment-friendly tools that improve the sustainability and resilience of crop production systems under environmental stresses. Protein hydrolysates (PHs) are a main category of biostimulants produced by chemical or enzymatic hydrolysis of proteins from animal or plant sources. Mostly composed of amino acids and peptides, PHs have a beneficial effect on multiple physiological processes, including photosynthetic activity, nutrient assimilation and translocation, and also quality parameters. They also seem to have hormone-like activities. Moreover, PHs enhance tolerance to abiotic stresses, notably through the stimulation of protective processes such as cell antioxidant activity and osmotic adjustment. Knowledge on their mode of action, however, is still piecemeal. The aims of this review are as follows: (i) Giving a comprehensive overview of current findings about the hypothetical mechanisms of action of PHs; (ii) Emphasizing the knowledge gaps that deserve to be urgently addressed with a view to efficiently improve the benefits of biostimulants for different plant crops in the context of climate change.
Potential Therapeutic Targets of Formononetin, a Type of Methoxylated Isoflavone, and Its Role in Cancer Therapy through the Modulation of Signal Transduction Pathways
Authors: Almatroodi Saleh A. , Almatroudi Ahmad , Khan Amjad Ali , Rahmani Arshad Husain
Published: June 2023

Cancer is one of the main causes of death in all developed and developing countries. Various factors are involved in cancer development and progression, including inflammation and alterations in cellular processes and signaling transduction pathways. Natural compounds have shown health-promoting effects through their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory potential, having an important role in the inhibition of cancer growth. In this regard, formononetin, a type of isoflavone, plays a significant role in disease management through the modulation of inflammation, angiogenesis, cell cycle, and apoptosis. Furthermore, its role in cancer management has been proven through the regulation of different signal transduction pathways, such as the signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT 3), Phosphatidyl inositol 3 kinase/protein kinase B (PI3K/Akt), and mitogen activating protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathways. The anticancer potential of formononetin has been reported against various cancer types, such as breast, cervical, head and neck, colon, and ovarian cancers. This review focuses on the role of formononetin in different cancer types through the modulation of various cell signaling pathways. Moreover, synergistic effect with anticancer drugs and methods to improve bioavailability are explained. Thus, detailed studies based on clinical trials are required to explore the potential role of formononetin in cancer prevention and treatment.
Inhibition of Galectins and the P2X7 Purinergic Receptor as a Therapeutic Approach in the Neurovascular Inflammation of Diabetic Retinopathy
Authors: Lepre Caterina Claudia , Russo Marina , Trotta Maria Consiglia , Petrillo Francesco , D’Agostino Fabiana Anna , Gaudino Gennaro , D’Amico Giovanbattista , Campitiello Maria Rosaria , Crisci Erminia , Nicoletti Maddalena , Gesualdo Carlo , Simonelli Francesca , D’Amico Michele , Hermenean Anca , Rossi Settimio
Published: June 2023

Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is the most frequent microvascular retinal complication of diabetic patients, contributing to loss of vision. Recently, retinal neuroinflammation and neurodegeneration have emerged as key players in DR progression, and therefore, this review examines the neuroinflammatory molecular basis of DR. We focus on four important aspects of retinal neuroinflammation: (i) the exacerbation of endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress; (ii) the activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome; (iii) the role of galectins; and (iv) the activation of purinergic 2X7 receptor (P2X7R). Moreover, this review proposes the selective inhibition of galectins and the P2X7R as a potential pharmacological approach to prevent the progression of DR.
Dietary Bioactive Compounds and Breast Cancer
Authors: Giménez-Bastida Juan Antonio , González-Sarrías Antonio
Published: June 2023

Cancer is among the most serious health problems and the second leading cause of death globally, affecting millions of people worldwide [...]
The Unique Light-Harvesting System of the Algal Phycobilisome: Structure, Assembly Components, and Functions
Authors: Li Xiang , Hou Wenwen , Lei Jiaxi , Chen Hui , Wang Qiang
Published: June 2023

The phycobilisome (PBS) is the major light-harvesting apparatus in cyanobacteria and red algae. It is a large multi-subunit protein complex of several megadaltons that is found on the stromal side of thylakoid membranes in orderly arrays. Chromophore lyases catalyse the thioether bond between apoproteins and phycobilins of PBSs. Depending on the species, composition, spatial assembly, and, especially, the functional tuning of different phycobiliproteins mediated by linker proteins, PBSs can absorb light between 450 and 650 nm, making them efficient and versatile light-harvesting systems. However, basic research and technological innovations are needed, not only to understand their role in photosynthesis but also to realise the potential applications of PBSs. Crucial components including phycobiliproteins, phycobilins, and lyases together make the PBS an efficient light-harvesting system, and these provide a scheme to explore the heterologous synthesis of PBS. Focusing on these topics, this review describes the essential components needed for PBS assembly, the functional basis of PBS photosynthesis, and the applications of phycobiliproteins. Moreover, key technical challenges for heterologous biosynthesis of phycobiliproteins in chassis cells are discussed.
Atherosclerotic and Cardio-Metabolic Diseases: From Molecular Basis to Therapeutic Advances
Authors: Kassi Eva , Kyrou Ioannis , Randeva Harpal S.
Published: June 2023

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) still remain the major cause of death worldwide; however, CVD-related mortality has been reduced due to lifestyle modification interventions, as well as novel pharmacological therapies and advances in cardiovascular surgery [...]
Tumoricidal Activity of Simvastatin in Synergy with RhoA Inactivation in Antimigration of Clear Cell Renal Cell Carcinoma Cells
Authors: Lee Yuan-Chii Gladys , Chou Fang-Ning , Tung Szu-Yu , Chou Hsiu-Chu , Ko Tsui-Ling , Fann Yang C. , Juan Shu-Hui
Published: June 2023

Among kidney cancers, clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) has the highest incidence rate in adults. The survival rate of patients diagnosed as having metastatic ccRCC drastically declines even with intensive treatment. We examined the efficacy of simvastatin, a lipid-lowering drug with reduced mevalonate synthesis, in ccRCC treatment. Simvastatin was found to reduce cell viability and increase autophagy induction and apoptosis. In addition, it reduced cell metastasis and lipid accumulation, the target proteins of which can be reversed through mevalonate supplementation. Moreover, simvastatin suppressed cholesterol synthesis and protein prenylation that is essential for RhoA activation. Simvastatin might also reduce cancer metastasis by suppressing the RhoA pathway. A gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) of the human ccRCC GSE53757 data set revealed that the RhoA and lipogenesis pathways are activated. In simvastatin-treated ccRCC cells, although RhoA was upregulated, it was mainly restrained in the cytosolic fraction and concomitantly reduced Rho-associated protein kinase activity. RhoA upregulation might be a negative feedback effect owing to the loss of RhoA activity caused by simvastatin, which can be restored by mevalonate. RhoA inactivation by simvastatin was correlated with decreased cell metastasis in the transwell assay, which was mimicked in dominantly negative RhoA-overexpressing cells. Thus, owing to the increased RhoA activation and cell metastasis in the human ccRCC dataset analysis, simvastatin-mediated Rho inactivation might serve as a therapeutic target for ccRCC patients. Altogether, simvastatin suppressed the cell viability and metastasis of ccRCC cells; thus, it is a potentially effective ccRCC adjunct therapy after clinical validation for ccRCC treatment.
Resveratrol Reverses Endothelial Colony-Forming Cell Dysfunction in Adulthood in a Rat Model of Intrauterine Growth Restriction
Authors: Guillot Estelle , Lemay Anna , Allouche Manon , Vitorino Silva Sara , Coppola Hanna , Sabatier Florence , Dignat-George Françoise , Sarre Alexandre , Peyter Anne-Christine , Simoncini Stéphanie , Yzydorczyk Catherine
Published: June 2023

Individuals born after intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) are at risk of developing cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). Endothelial dysfunction plays a role in the pathogenesis of CVDs; and endothelial colony-forming cells (ECFCs) have been identified as key factors in endothelial repair. In a rat model of IUGR induced by a maternal low-protein diet, we observed an altered functionality of ECFCs in 6-month-old males, which was associated with arterial hypertension related to oxidative stress and stress-induced premature senescence (SIPS). Resveratrol (R), a polyphenol compound, was found to improve cardiovascular function. In this study, we investigated whether resveratrol could reverse ECFC dysfunctions in the IUGR group. ECFCs were isolated from IUGR and control (CTRL) males and were treated with R (1 μM) or dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO) for 48 h. In the IUGR-ECFCs, R increased proliferation (5′-bromo-2′-deoxyuridine (BrdU) incorporation, p < 0.001) and improved capillary-like outgrowth sprout formation (in Matrigel), nitric oxide (NO) production (fluorescent dye, p < 0.01), and endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) expression (immunofluorescence, p < 0.001). In addition, R decreased oxidative stress with reduced superoxide anion production (fluorescent dye, p < 0.001); increased Cu/Zn superoxide dismutase expression (Western blot, p < 0.05); and reversed SIPS with decreased beta-galactosidase activity (p < 0.001), and decreased p16ink4a (p < 0.05) and increased Sirtuin-1 (p < 0.05) expressions (Western blot). No effects of R were observed in the CTRL-ECFCs. These results suggest that R reverses long-term ECFC dysfunctions related to IUGR.
The Association between Oxytocin and Lower Limb Osteoarthritis: A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Roux Christian Hubert , Rousseau Anne-Sophie , Iannelli Antonio , Gautier Nadine , Ferrero Stéphanie , Hinault Charlotte , Chinetti Giulia , Ngueyon-Sime Willy , Guillemin Francis , Amri Ez Zoubir
Published: June 2023

Oxytocin (OT), a neuropeptide best known for its role in emotional and social behaviors, has been linked to osteoarthritis (OA). This study aimed to investigate the serum OT level in hip and/or knee OA patients and to study its association with disease progression. Patients from the KHOALA cohort with symptomatic hip and/or knee OA (Kellgren and Lawrence (KL) scores of 2 and 3) and follow-up at 5 years were included in this analysis. The primary endpoint was structural radiological progression, which was defined as an increase of at least one KL point at 5 years. Logistic regression models were used to estimate the associations between OT levels and KL progression while controlling for gender, age, BMI, diabetes and leptin levels. Data from 174 hip OA patients and 332 knee OA patients were analyzed independently. No differences in OT levels were found between the ‘progressors’ and ‘non-progressors’ groups among the hip OA patients and knee OA patients, respectively. No statistically significant associations were found between the OT levels at baseline and KL progression at 5 years, the KL score at baseline or the clinical outcomes. Higher structural damage at baseline and severe structural progression of hip and knee osteoarthritis did not appear to be associated with a low serum OT level at baseline.
Multi-Task Romanian Email Classification in a Business Context
Authors: Dima Alexandru , Ruseti Stefan , Iorga Denis , Banica Cosmin Karl , Dascalu Mihai
Published: June 2023

Email classification systems are essential for handling and organizing the massive flow of communication, especially in a business context. Although many solutions exist, the lack of standardized classification categories limits their applicability. Furthermore, the lack of Romanian language business-oriented public datasets makes the development of such solutions difficult. To this end, we introduce a versatile automated email classification system based on a novel public dataset of 1447 manually annotated Romanian business-oriented emails. Our corpus is annotated with 5 token-related labels, as well as 5 sequence-related classes. We establish a strong baseline using pre-trained Transformer models for token classification and multi-task classification, achieving an F1-score of 0.752 and 0.764, respectively. We publicly release our code together with the dataset of labeled emails.
Tg(Δ113p53:cmyc) Transgene Upregulates glut1 Expression to Promote Zebrafish Heart Regeneration
Authors: Tang Zimu , Wang Kaiyuan , Lo Lijian , Chen Jun
Published: June 2023

The heart switches its main metabolic substrate from glucose to fatty acids shortly after birth, which is one of reasons for the loss of heart regeneration capability in adult mammals. On the contrary, metabolic shifts from oxidative phosphorylation to glucose metabolism promote cardiomyocyte (CM) proliferation after heart injury. However, how glucose transportation in CMs is regulated during heart regeneration is still not fully understood. In this report, we found that the expression of Glut1 (slc2a1) was upregulated around the injury site of zebrafish heart, accompanied by an increase in glucose uptake at the injury area. Knockout of slc2a1a impaired zebrafish heart regeneration. Our previous study has demonstrated that the expression of Δ113p53 is activated after heart injury and Δ113p53+ CMs undergo proliferation to contribute to zebrafish heart regeneration. Next, we used the Δ113p53 promoter to generate the Tg(Δ113p53:cmyc) zebrafish transgenic line. Conditional overexpression of cmyc not only significantly promoted zebrafish CM proliferation and heart regeneration but also significantly enhanced glut1 expression at the injury site. Inhibiting Glut1 diminished the increase in CM proliferation in Tg(Δ113p53:cmyc) injured hearts of zebrafish. Therefore, our results suggest that the activation of cmyc promotes heart regeneration through upregulating the expression of glut1 to speed up glucose transportation.
Pathophysiologic Contributions of Visceral Adiposity to Left Ventricular Diastolic Dysfunction
Authors: Nagata Reika , Obokata Masaru , Matsui Miki , Matsui Hiroki , Seki Yuko , Igarashi Takamichi , Sunaga Hiroaki , Kawakami Ryo , Harada Tomonari , Kagami Kazuki , Saeki Hiroshi , Shirabe Ken , Iso Tatsuya , Ishii Hideki
Published: June 2023

Background: Visceral fat produces inflammatory cytokines and may play a major role in heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). However, little data exist regarding how qualitative and quantitative abnormalities of visceral fat would contribute to left ventricular diastolic dysfunction (LVDD). Methods: We studied 77 participants who underwent open abdominal surgery for intra-abdominal tumors (LVDD, n = 44; controls without LVDD, n = 33). Visceral fat samples were obtained during the surgery, and mRNA levels of inflammatory cytokines were measured. Visceral and subcutaneous fat areas were measured using abdominal computed tomography. Results: Patients with significant LVDD had greater LV remodeling and worse LVDD than controls. While body weight, body mass index, and subcutaneous fat area were similar in patients with LVDD and controls, the visceral fat area was larger in patients with LVDD than in controls. The visceral fat area was correlated with BNP levels, LV mass index, mitral e′ velocity, and E/e′ ratio. There were no significant differences in the mRNA expressions of visceral adipose tissue cytokines (IL-2, -6, -8, and -1β, TNFα, CRP, TGFβ, IFNγ, leptin, and adiponectin) between the groups. Conclusions: Our data may suggest the pathophysiological contribution of visceral adiposity to LVDD.
Total Hip Arthroplasty: So Hip It Hurts
Authors: Holzer Lukas A.
Published: June 2023

Total hip arthroplasty (THA) has become a standard surgical intervention for patients with hip joint disorders [...]
Investigation on Mechanical and Thermal Properties of 3D-Printed Polyamide 6, Graphene Oxide and Glass-Fibre-Reinforced Composites under Dry, Wet and High Temperature Conditions
Authors: Ichakpa Mariah , Goodyear Matthew , Duthie Jake , Duthie Matthew , Wisely Ryan , MacPherson Allan , Keyte John , Pancholi Ketan , Njuguna James
Published: June 2023

This study is focused on 3D printing of polyamide 6 (PA6), PA6/graphene oxide (PA6/GO) and PA6/glass-fibre-reinforced (PA6/GF) composites. The effect of graphene oxide and glass-fibre reinforcement on 3D-printed PA6 is explored for improvement of the interfacial bond and interlaminar strength in ambient, wet and high temperature conditions relating to electric car battery box requirements. The influence of environmental conditions and process parameters on the 3D-printed polymer composites quality is also examined. Commercial PA6 filament was modified with GO to investigate the thermal and mechanical properties. The modified composites were melt-compounded using a twin-feed extruder to produce an improved 3D-printing filament. The improved filaments were then used to 3D-print test samples for tensile and compression mechanical testing using universal testing machines and thermal characterisation was performed following condition treatment in high temperature and water for correlation to dry/ambient samples. The study results show the studied materials were mostly suitable in dry/ambient conditions. PA6/GF samples demonstrated the highest strength of all three samples in ambient and high-temperature conditions, but the least strength in wet conditions due to osmotic pressure at the fibre/matrix interface that led to fibre breakage. The introduction of 0.1% GO improved the tensile strength by 33%, 11% and 23% in dry/ambient, dry/high temperature and wet/ambient conditions, respectively. The wet PA6/GO samples demonstrated the least strength in comparison to the ambient and high-temperature conditions. Notwithstanding this, PA6/GO exhibited the highest tensile strength in the wet condition, making it the most suitable for a high-strength, water-exposed engineering application.
Simple Mixed-Acid-Treated Carbon Fiber Electrodes with Oxygen-Containing Functional Groups for Flexible Supercapacitors
Authors: Wang Yongbo , Li Hui , Cui Bowen , Xu Xiaodan , Wang Yanxiang
Published: June 2023

Flexible supercapacitors are demanded for energy storage of wearable electronics. In this paper, a simple strategy for preparing flexible carbon fibers (CFs) with good energy storage capacity using a mixed acid treatment process is reported. When the volume ratio of concentrated sulfuric acid to concentrated nitric acid is 3:1, the carbon fiber electrodes have the best electrochemical performance with a high capacitance of 27.83 F g−1 at 15 mA g−1 and extremely high capacitance retention of 79.9% after 500 cycles at 100 mA g−1. Furthermore, their energy density can reach 3.86 Wh kg−1 with a power density of 7.5 W kg−1. Such an excellent electrochemical performance of carbon fiber electrodes is attributed to their surface rich oxygen-containing functional groups, rough surface, and a certain number of graphene quantum dots (GQDs). Importantly, the all-solid-state flexible supercapacitor performs excellent bending stability performance with a capacitance retention of almost 100% after 500 times of bending at 180°, showing good prospects and applications in the field of flexible energy storage devices.
Propensity Matched Outcomes of Minimally Invasive Mitral Surgery: Does a Heart-Team Approach Eliminate Female Gender as an Independent Risk Factor?
Authors: Passos Laina , Lavanchy Isabel , Aymard Thierry , Morjan Mohammed , Kapos Ioannis , Corti Roberto , Gruenenfelder Juerg , Biaggi Patric , Reser Diana
Published: June 2023

Background: There is increasing evidence that female gender is an independent risk factor for cardiac surgery. Minimally invasive mitral surgery (MIV) has proven to have excellent long-term results, but little is known about gender-dependent outcomes. The aim of our study was to analyze our heart team's decision-based MIV-specialized cohort. Methods: In-hospital and follow-up data were retrospectively collected. The cohort was divided into gender groups and propensity-matched groups. Results: Between 22 July 2013 and 31 December 2022, 302 consecutive patients underwent MIV. Before matching, the total cohort showed that women were older, had a higher EuroSCORE II, were more symptomatic, and had more complex valve pathology and tricuspid regurgitation resulting in more valve replacements and tricuspid repairs. Intensive and hospital stays were longer. In-hospital deaths (n = 3, all women) were comparable, with more atrial fibrillation in women. The median follow-up time was 3.44 (0.008–8.9) years. The ejection fraction, NYHA, and recurrent regurgitation were low and comparable and atrial fibrillation more frequent in women. The calculated 5-year survival and freedom from re-intervention were comparable (p = 0.9 and p = 0.2). Propensity matching compared 101 well-balanced pairs; women still had fewer resections and more atrial fibrillation. During the follow-up, women had a better ejection fraction. The calculated 5-year survival and freedom from re-intervention were comparable (p = 0.3 and p = 0.3). Conclusions: Despite women being older and sicker, with more complex valve pathology and subsequent replacement, early and mid-term mortality and the need for reoperation were low and comparable before and after propensity matching, which might be the result of the MIV setting combined with our patient-tailored decision-making. We believe that a multidisciplinary heart team approach is crucial to optimize patient outcomes in MIV, and it might also reduce the widely reported increased surgical risk in female patients. Further studies are needed to prove our findings.
Evaluation of Neutrophil-to-Lymphocyte Ratio (NLR), Platelet-to-Lymphocyte Ratio (PLR) and Systemic Immune–Inflammation Index (SII) as Potential Biomarkers in Patients with Sporadic Medullary Thyroid Cancer (MTC)
Authors: Modica Roberta , Minotta Roberto , Liccardi Alessia , Cannavale Giuseppe , Benevento Elio , Colao Annamaria
Published: June 2023

Medullary thyroid cancer (MTC) is a rare neuroendocrine neoplasm, and calcitonin is its main biomarker. An elevated neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR) and systemic immune–inflammation index (SII) have been considered as negative prognostic factors in several neoplasms. The aim of this study is to evaluate the potential role of NLR, PLR and SII as biomarkers in MTC. Clinical data and tumor histological characteristics of patients with sporadic MTC, referred to the NET Unit of Federico II University of Naples (ENETS CoE) from 2012 to 2022, were retrospectively evaluated by analyzing preoperative and postoperative calcitonin, NLR, PLR and SII. We included 35 MTC patients undergoing total thyroidectomy. The mean preoperative NLR was 2.70 (±1.41, 0.93–7.98), the PLR was 121.05 (±41.9, 40.98–227.23) and SII was 597.92 (±345.58, 186.59–1628). We identified a statistically significant difference between pre- and post-thyroidectomy NLR (p = 0.02), SII (p = 0.02) and calcitonin (p = 0.0) values. No association with prognosis or tumor characteristics emerged. Elevated preoperative NLR and SII suggest a possible disease-associated inflammatory response, and their reduction after surgery may be related to debulking effects. Further studies are needed to define the role of NLR, PLR and SII as prognostic markers in MTC.
The Effect of Corporate Governance in Islamic Banking on the Agility of Iraqi Banks
Authors: Sehen Issa Jabbar , Abbaszadeh Mohammad Reza
Published: June 2023

The primary purpose of the research is to investigate the effect of the quality of corporate governance in Islamic banking on the agility of Iraqi banks. For this purpose, the structural-equation-modeling (SEM) method was used to investigate the effect of independent variables on the dependent variable. The statistical population of this study is all managers, employees, and customers of the public and private banks of Iraq, and a total of 70 questionnaires were included and analyzed to test the paper’s hypotheses. The research results indicate that corporate governance in Islamic banking has a positive impact on the agility of Iraqi banks, meaning that with an increase in corporate-governance mechanisms in Iraqi Islamic banking, the capability of banks to make timely reactions to potential changes is likely to increase. In this regard, the provision of various services in a flexible and snap manner to a wide range of customers, the acceptance of innovation and IT-related processes, the identification and application of environmental opportunities, and having a culture of learning and cooperating are expected to be realized by improving the quality of corporate-governance mechanisms. Our findings may apply to policymakers to improve market efficiency through designing regulations and bank managers to increase their general performance. The current paper is among the initial attempts to determine the influential factors on bank agility in emerging markets.
From Fake Reviews to Fake News: A Novel Pandemic Model of Misinformation in Digital Networks
Authors: Govindankutty Sreeraag , Gopalan Shynu Padinjappurathu
Published: June 2023

Digital networks and E-commerce platforms have had a profound effect on people’s personal, educational, and professional life all around the world. They offer space for advertising, sales, and disseminating news and information, even if they are frequently used for social marketing, interacting, and sharing thoughts among people. Currently, most E-commerce platforms utilize digital network space for advertisement and an increasing trend of social commerce is visible in all parts of the world. During the Post-COVID-19 pandemic, a rapid increase in digital media and E-commerce usage was observed in all parts of the world for personal and professional aspects. The increase in misinformation through these platforms is a major challenge that the current governments face today as rumors and fake news creates severe detrimental implications in society. In this work, we consider fake reviews and misinformation in online digital networks as a single disease, and thereby, by considering the recent trends in online social media marketing, we formulate a pandemic model for digital networks with a psychological state of human choice. The positivity and stability of the model are mathematically tested and validated. Our analysis and simulation prove that the system is stable and justifiable in the real-world digital environment. The generated pandemic model can be applied to assess the social and emotional intelligence of communities and consumers who are frequently exposed to misinformation and share fake news.
Agricultural Drought Risk Assessment Based on a Comprehensive Model Using Geospatial Techniques in Songnen Plain, China
Authors: Gao Fengjie , Zhang Si , Yu Rui , Zhao Yafang , Chen Yuxin , Zhang Ying
Published: June 2023

Drought is a damaging and costly natural disaster that will become more serious in the context of global climate change in the future. Constructing a reliable drought risk assessment model and presenting its spatial pattern could be significant for agricultural production. However, agricultural drought risk mapping scientifically still needs more effort. Considering the whole process of drought occurrence, this study developed a comprehensive agricultural drought risk assessment model that involved all risk components (exposure, hazard, vulnerability and mitigation capacity) and their associated criteria using geospatial techniques and fuzzy logic. The comprehensive model was applied in Songnen Plain to justify its applicability. ROC and AUC techniques were applied to evaluate its efficiency, and the prediction rate was 88.6%. The similar spatial distribution of water resources further verified the model’s reliability. The southwestern Songnen Plain is a very-high-risk (14.44%) region, determined by a high vulnerability, very high hazardousness and very low mitigation capacity, and is the region that should be paid the most attention to; the central part is a cross-risk region of high risk (24.68%) and moderate risk (27.28%) with a serious disturbance of human agricultural activities; the northeastern part is a dry grain production base with a relatively optimal agricultural production condition of very low risk (22.12%) and low risk (11.48%). Different drought mitigation strategies should be adopted in different regions due to different drought causes. The findings suggest that the proposed model is highly effective in mapping comprehensive drought risk for formulating strong drought mitigation strategies and could be used in other drought-prone areas.
Study on Dispersion, Adsorption, and Hydration Effects of Polycarboxylate Superplasticizers with Different Side Chain Structures in Reference Cement and Belite Cement
Authors: Fang Yunhui , Zhang Xiaofang , Yan Dongming , Lin Zhijun , Ma Xiuxing , Lai Junying , Liu Yi , Ke Yuliang , Chen Zhanhua , Wang Zhaopeng
Published: June 2023

To investigate the effects of Reference cement (RC) and Belite cement (LC) systems, different molecular structures of polycarboxylate ether (PCE) were prepared through the free radical polymerization reaction and designated as PC-1 and PC-2. The PCE was characterized and tested using a particle charge detector, gel permeation chromatography, a rotational rheometer, a total organic carbon analyzer, and scanning electron microscopy. The results showed that compared to PC-2, PC-1 exhibited higher charge density and better molecular structure extension, with smaller side-chain molecular weight and molecular volume. PC-1 demonstrated enhanced adsorption capacity in cement, improved initial dispersibility of cement slurry, and a reduction in slurry yield stress of more than 27.8%. LC, with its higher C2S content and smaller specific surface area compared to RC, could decrease the formation of flocculated structures, resulting in a reduction in slurry yield stress of over 57.5% and displaying favorable fluidity in cement slurry. PC-1 had a greater retarding effect on the hydration induction period of cement compared to PC-2. RC, which had a higher C3S content, could adsorb more PCE, leading to a greater retarding effect on the hydration induction period compared to LC. LC and PC-2, on the other hand, exhibited inhibition during the hydration acceleration period. The addition of PCE with different structures did not significantly affect the morphology of hydration products in the later stage, which was consistent with the trend of KD variation. This indicates that the analysis of hydration kinetics can better reflect the final hydration morphology.
Dry-Adhesive Microstructures for Material Handling of Additively Manufactured and Deep-Rolled Metal Surfaces with Reference to Mars
Authors: Mensching Nicole , Krüger Mirja Louisa , Kvaratskheliya Askar , Meyer Daniel , Tracht Kirsten , Okulov Ilya , Mädler Lutz
Published: June 2023

Once on Mars, maintenance and repair will be crucial for humans as supply chains including Earth and Mars will be very complex. Consequently, the raw material available on Mars must be processed and used. Factors such as the energy available for material production play just as important a role as the quality of the material that can be produced and the quality of its surface. To develop and technically implement a process chain that meets the challenge of producing spare parts from oxygen-reduced Mars regolith, this paper addresses the issue of low-energy handling. Expected statistically distributed high roughnesses of sintered regolith analogs are approximated in this work by parameter variation in the PBF-LB/M process. For low-energy handling, a dry-adhesive microstructure is used. Investigations are carried out to determine the extent to which the rough surface resulting from the manufacturing process can be smoothed by deep-rolling in such a way that the microstructure adheres and enables samples to be transported. For the investigated AlSi10Mg samples (12 mm × 12 mm × 10 mm), the surface roughness varies in a wide range from Sa 7.7 µm to Sa 64 µm after the additive manufacturing process, and pull-off stresses of up to 6.99 N/cm2 could be realized after deep-rolling. This represents an increase in pull-off stresses by a factor of 392.94 compared to the pull-off stresses before deep-rolling, enabling the handling of even larger specimens. It is noteworthy that specimens with roughness values that were previously difficult to handle can be treated post-deep-rolling, indicating a potential influence of additional variables that describe roughness or ripples and are associated with the adhesion effect of the microstructure of the dry adhesive.
Evaluation of the Mechanical, Thermal and Rheological Properties of Hop, Hemp and Wood Fiber Plastic Composites
Authors: Talcott Sierra , Uptmor Benjamin , McDonald Armando G.
Published: June 2023

The aim of this study was to evaluate the use of waste natural fibers from milled hop bines and hemp stalks, without chemical treatment, and compare them to a commercial wood fiber for use in wood–plastic composite (WPC) materials. The fibers were characterized (density, fiber size and chemical composition). WPCs were produced by the extrusion of a blend of fibers (50%), high-density polyethylene (HDPE) and coupling agent (2%). The WPCs were characterized for their mechanical, rheological, thermal, viscoelastic and water resistance properties. Pine fiber was about half the size of hemp and hop fibers and thus had a higher surface area. The pine WPC melts had a higher viscosity than the other two WPCs. Additionally, the tensile and flexural strengths of the pine WPC were higher than those of hop and hemp WPCs. The pine WPC was also shown to have the least water absorption followed by hop and hemp WPCs. This study highlights that different lignocellulosic fibers influence their WPC properties. The properties of the hop- and hemp-based WPCs were comparable to commercial WPCs and can be improved by further milling/screening the fibers to a smaller particle size (volumetric mean of ~88 μm) to increase their surface area, fiber–matrix interactions and improve stress-transfer.
From Micro to Nano: Grinding Natural Magnetite Ore for Microalgae Harvesting
Authors: Schobesberger Michael , Helmhagen Simone , Mende Stefan , Berensmeier Sonja , Fraga-García Paula
Published: June 2023

Microalgae represent a promising feedstock for sustainable biomass and energy. The low cell concentration after cultivation, however, limits the current application fields. Magnetic microalgae harvesting is a recent approach to overcome the economic limitations of exploiting this natural resource. Accordingly, different particle types have been applied, mainly synthetically produced magnetic nanoparticles, though none on an industrial scale. Particle sizes between a few micrometers and a few nanometers have not been tested. We expected 200–500 nm to be advantageous for harvesting and as a compromise between the highly available surface and good separation properties. However, this intermediate magnetite particle size between the micro- and nano-scale cannot be reached via chemical synthesis. Therefore, we ground natural magnetite ore in a planetary ball mill and an agitator bead mill producing particles in the targeted size range. Applying ore particles ground from ~6 µm to 250 nm yields harvesting efficiencies comparable to synthetically produced nanoparticles (Ø ~ 10 nm), with only half the BET surface. Complete harvesting of saline microalgae Microchloropsis salina is possible with ground particles at alkaline pH. We demonstrate the feasibility of a harvesting process with natural, low-cost, easily separable, and readily available magnetite ore particles as a promising step towards exploiting valuable microalgal products in life sciences.
Percolation Problems on N-Ary Trees
Authors: Ren Tianxiang , Wu Jinwen
Published: June 2023

Percolation theory is a subject that has been flourishing in recent decades. Because of its simple expression and rich connotation, it is widely used in chemistry, ecology, physics, materials science, infectious diseases, and complex networks. Consider an infinite-rooted N-ary tree where each vertex is assigned an i.i.d. random variable. When the random variable follows a Bernoulli distribution, a path is called head run if all the random variables that are assigned on the path are 1. We obtain the weak law of large numbers for the length of the longest head run. In addition, when the random variable follows a continuous distribution, a path is called an increasing path if the sequence of random variables on the path is increasing. By Stein’s method and other probabilistic methods, we prove that the length of the longest increasing path with a probability of one focuses on three points. We also consider limiting behaviours for the longest increasing path in a special tree.
Functional Disability and Brain MRI Volumetry Results among Multiple Sclerosis Patients during 5-Year Follow-Up
Authors: Strautmane Sintija , Balodis Arturs , Teivane Agnete , Grabovska Dagnija , Naudins Edgars , Urbanovics Daniels , Fisermans Edgars , Mednieks Janis , Flintere-Flinte Alina , Priede Zanda , Millers Andrejs , Zolovs Maksims
Published: June 2023

Background and Objectives: We aimed to determine the link between brain volumetry results and functional disability calculated using the Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) among multiple sclerosis (MS) patients in relation to the provided treatment (disease-modifying therapies (DMTs)) during a 5-year follow-up period. Materials and Methods: A retrospective cohort study was performed enrolling 66 consecutive patients with a confirmed diagnosis of MS, predominantly females (62% (n = 41)). Relapsing–remitting (RR) MS was noted in 92% (n = 61) of patients, with the rest being patients with secondary progressive (SP) MS. The mean age was 43.3 years (SD 8.3 years). All patients were evaluated clinically using the EDSS and “FreeSurfer© 7.2.0” radiologically during a 5-year follow-up. Results: A significant increase in patient functional disability was noted, calculated using the EDSS during a 5-year follow-up. The baseline EDSS ranged between 1 and 6 with a median of 1.5 (IQR 1.5–2.0), and after 5 years, the EDSS was between 1 and 7, with a median EDSS of 3.0 (IQR 2.4–3.6). Compared with RRMS patients, SPMS patients demonstrated a significant increase in EDSS score during a 5-year period, with a median EDSS of 2.5 in RRMS patients (IQR 2.0–3.3) and 7.0 (IQR 5.0–7.0) among SPMS patients. Significantly lower brain volumetry results in different brain areas were found, including cortical, total grey and white matter, p < 0.05. Statistically significant differences were observed between baseline volumetry results of the hippocampus and the middle anterior part of the corpus callosum and their volumetry results after 5 years, p < 0.001. In this study population, the thalamus did not demonstrate significant changes in volumetry results during follow-up, p > 0.05. The provided treatment (DMTs) did not demonstrate a significant impact on the brain MRI volumetry results during a 5-year follow-up, p > 0.05. Conclusions: Brain MRI volumetry seriously impacts the early detection of brain atrophic changes. In this study, significant relationship between brain magnetic resonance volumetry results and disability progression among MS patients with no important impact of the provided treatment was described. Brain MRI volumetry may aid in the identification of early disease progression among MS patients, as well as enrich the clinical evaluation of MS patients in clinical patient care.
The Relationship between the Hounsfield Units Value of the Upper Instrumented Vertebra and the Severity of Proximal Junctional Fracture after Adult Spinal Deformity Surgery
Authors: Yoshie Norichika , Maruo Keishi , Arizumi Fumihiro , Kishima Kazuya , Kusukawa Tomoyuki , Tachibana Toshiya
Published: June 2023

Background and Objectives: In this retrospective cohort study, we investigate associations between the Hounsfield units (HU) value of upper instrumented vertebra (UIV) and proximal junctional kyphosis (PJK) after adult spinal deformity (ASD) surgery. Materials and Methods: The cohort consisted of 60 patients (mean age 71.7 years) who underwent long instrumented fusion surgery (≥6 vertebrae) for ASD with at least 1 year of follow-up. The preoperative bone mineral density (BMD) measured on DXA scans, the HU values at UIV and UIV+1, and the radiographic parameters were compared between the PJK and non-PJK groups. The severity of UIV fracture was assessed using a semiquantitative (SQ) grade. Results: PJK occurred in 43% of patients. No significant differences in patient age, sex, BMD, and preoperative radiographic parameters were observed between the PJK and non-PJK groups. The HU values of the UIV (103.4 vs. 149.0, p < 0.001) and UIV+1 (102.0 vs. 145.7, p < 0.001) were significantly lower in the PJK group. The cutoff values of HU at UIV and UIV+1 were 122.8 and 114.9, respectively. Lower HU values at UIV (Grade 1: 134.2, Grade 2: 109.6, Grade 3: 81.1, p < 0.001) and UIV+1 (Grade 1: 131.5, Grade 2: 107.1, Grade 3: 82.1, p < 0.001) were associated with severe SQ grade. Conclusions: Lower HU values at UIV and UIV+1 had a negative impact on signal incidence of PJK and were correlated with the severity of UIV fractures. Preoperative treatment of osteoporosis seems necessary for preoperative UIV HU values less than 120.
Lead Release from Simulated Lead-Containing Jarosite Using Freeze–Thaw Cycling with EDTA
Authors: Peng Jun , Shen Yujun , Liu Hui , He Luhua , Wei Yangjin , Yan Xu
Published: June 2023

Lead is the primary toxic element found in jarosite residue; it is necessary to synthesize simulated lead-containing jarosite residue (SLJS) to investigate its lead release behavior and predict the slag’s stability and potential for secondary environmental pollution. This study explores the ion release behavior, leaching toxicity, and stability of SLJS during freeze–thaw cycles with EDTA (E-FTC). Experimental results demonstrate that the release of lead, iron, and sulfate from SLJS under E-FTC is contingent upon multiple factors, including solution pH, EDTA concentration, freeze–thaw cycles, freezing temperature, and freeze–thaw mode. Specifically, employing an EDTA concentration of 200 mM, a pH of 6, a freezing temperature of −20 °C, and 12 freeze–thaw cycles, the lead release reaches 15.1 mM, accounting for 94.9% of the total lead content, while iron is negligibly released, thus enabling effective separation of lead from iron. Subsequent to E-FTC, the exchangeable lead content exhibits a substantial reduction, accompanied by a marked increase in residual lead, resulting in a remarkable 98% reduction in leaching toxicity. Moreover, the equilibrium concentration of lead in the continuous stable leaching solution is 0.13 mg/L, significantly below the lead toxicity threshold (5 mg/L). Therefore, environmental stability can be greatly enhanced. This study presents a novel approach for the safe disposal of jarosite residue under mild conditions and at low temperatures, contributing to the broader field of environmentally sustainable waste management.