bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multiplexed Detection of Pancreatic Cancer by Combining a Nanoparticle-Enabled Blood Test and Plasma Levels of Acute-Phase Proteins
Authors: Caputo Damiano , Coppola Alessandro , Quagliarini Erica , Di Santo Riccardo , Capriotti Anna Laura , Cammarata Roberto , Laganà Aldo , Papi Massimiliano , Digiacomo Luca , Coppola Roberto , Pozzi Daniela , Caracciolo Giulio
Published: September 2022

The development of new tools for the early detection of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) represents an area of intense research. Recently, the concept has emerged that multiplexed detection of different signatures from a single biospecimen (e.g., saliva, blood, etc.) may exhibit better diagnostic capability than single biomarkers. In this work, we develop a multiplexed strategy for detecting PDAC by combining characterization of the nanoparticle (NP)-protein corona, i.e., the protein layer that surrounds NPs upon exposure to biological fluids and circulating levels of plasma proteins belonging to the acute phase protein (APPs) family. As a first step, we developed a nanoparticle-enabled blood (NEB) test that employed 600 nm graphene oxide (GO) nanosheets and human plasma (HP) (5% vol/vol) to produce 75 personalized protein coronas (25 from healthy subjects and 50 from PDAC patients). Isolation and characterization of protein corona patterns by 1-dimensional (1D) SDS-PAGE identified significant differences in the abundance of low-molecular-weight corona proteins (20–30 kDa) between healthy subjects and PDAC patients. Coupling the outcomes of the NEB test with the circulating levels of alpha 2 globulins, we detected PDAC with a global capacity of 83.3%. Notably, a version of the multiplexed detection strategy run on sex-disaggregated data provided substantially better classification accuracy for men (93.1% vs. 77.8%). Nanoliquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (nano-LC MS/MS) experiments allowed to correlate PDAC with an altered enrichment of Apolipoprotein A-I, Apolipoprotein D, Complement factor D, Alpha-1-antichymotrypsin and Alpha-1-antitrypsin in the personalized protein corona. Moreover, other significant changes in the protein corona of PDAC patients were found. Overall, the developed multiplexed strategy is a valid tool for PDAC detection and paves the way for the identification of new potential PDAC biomarkers.
Immunopeptidome Diversity in Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia Identifies Patients with Favorable Disease Outcome
Authors: Marconato Maddalena , Maringer Yacine , Walz Juliane S. , Nelde Annika , Heitmann Jonas S.
Published: September 2022

Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) is characterized by recurrent relapses and resistance to treatment, even with novel therapeutic approaches. Despite being considered as a disease with low mutational burden and thus poor immunogenic, CLL seems to retain the ability of eliciting specific T cell activation. Accordingly, we recently found non-mutated tumor-associated antigens to play a central role in CLL immunosurveillance. Here, we investigated the association of total and CLL-exclusive HLA class I and HLA class II peptide presentation in the mass spectrometry-defined immunopeptidome of leukemic cells with clinical features and disease outcome of 57 CLL patients. Patients whose CLL cells present a more diverse immunopeptidome experienced fewer relapses. During the follow-up phase of up to 10 years, patients with an HLA class I-restricted presentation of high numbers of total and CLL-exclusive peptides on their malignant cells showed a more favorable disease course with a prolonged progression-free survival (PFS). Overall, our results suggest the existence of an efficient T cell-based immunosurveillance mediated by CLL-associated tumor antigens, supporting ongoing efforts in developing T cell-based immunotherapeutic strategies for CLL.
Investigation of the Role of PUFA Metabolism in Breast Cancer Using a Rank-Based Random Forest Algorithm
Authors: Guryleva Mariia V. , Penzar Dmitry D. , Chistyakov Dmitry V. , Mironov Andrey A. , Favorov Alexander V. , Sergeeva Marina G.
Published: September 2022

Polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) metabolism is currently a focus in cancer research due to PUFAs functioning as structural components of the membrane matrix, as fuel sources for energy production, and as sources of secondary messengers, so called oxylipins, important players of inflammatory processes. Although breast cancer (BC) is the leading cause of cancer death among women worldwide, no systematic study of PUFA metabolism as a system of interrelated processes in this disease has been carried out. Here, we implemented a Boruta-based feature selection algorithm to determine the list of most important PUFA metabolism genes altered in breast cancer tissues compared with in normal tissues. A rank-based Random Forest (RF) model was built on the selected gene list (33 genes) and applied to predict the cancer phenotype to ascertain the PUFA genes involved in cancerogenesis. It showed high-performance of dichotomic classification (balanced accuracy of 0.94, ROC AUC 0.99) We also retrieved a list of the important PUFA genes (46 genes) that differed between molecular subtypes at the level of breast cancer molecular subtypes. The balanced accuracy of the classification model built on the specified genes was 0.82, while the ROC AUC for the sensitivity analysis was 0.85. Specific patterns of PUFA metabolic changes were obtained for each molecular subtype of breast cancer. These results show evidence that (1) PUFA metabolism genes are critical for the pathogenesis of breast cancer; (2) BC subtypes differ in PUFA metabolism genes expression; and (3) the lists of genes selected in the models are enriched with genes involved in the metabolism of signaling lipids.
A Machine Learning-Based Predictive Model of Epidermal Growth Factor Mutations in Lung Adenocarcinomas
Authors: He Ruimin , Yang Xiaohua , Li Tengxiang , He Yaolin , Xie Xiaoxue , Chen Qilei , Zhang Zijian , Cheng Tingting
Published: September 2022

Data from 758 patients with lung adenocarcinoma were retrospectively collected. All patients had undergone computed tomography imaging and EGFR gene testing. Radiomic features were extracted using the medical imaging tool 3D-Slicer and were combined with the clinical features to build a machine learning prediction model. The high-dimensional feature set was screened for optimal feature subsets using principal component analysis (PCA) and the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO). Model prediction of EGFR mutation status in the validation group was evaluated using multiple classifiers. We showed that six clinical features and 622 radiomic features were initially collected. Thirty-one radiomic features with non-zero correlation coefficients were obtained by LASSO regression, and 24 features correlated with label values were obtained by PCA. The shared radiomic features determined by these two methods were selected and combined with the clinical features of the respective patient to form a subset of features related to EGFR mutations. The full dataset was partitioned into training and test sets at a ratio of 7:3 using 10-fold cross-validation. The area under the curve (AUC) of the four classifiers with cross-validations was: (1) K-nearest neighbor (AUCmean = 0.83, Acc = 81%); (2) random forest (AUCmean = 0.91, Acc = 83%); (3) LGBM (AUCmean = 0.94, Acc = 88%); and (4) support vector machine (AUCmean = 0.79, Acc = 83%). In summary, the subset of radiographic and clinical features selected by feature engineering effectively predicted the EGFR mutation status of this NSCLC patient cohort.
Ethanol Ablation Therapy Drives Immune-Mediated Antitumor Effects in Murine Breast Cancer Models
Authors: Nief Corrine A. , Swartz Adam M. , Chelales Erika , Sheu Lauren Y. , Crouch Brian T. , Ramanujam Nirmala , Nair Smita K.
Published: September 2022

Ethanol ablation is a minimally invasive, cost-effective method of destroying tumor tissue through an intratumoral injection of high concentrations of cytotoxic alcohol. Ethyl-cellulose ethanol (ECE) ablation, a modified version of ethanol ablation, contains the phase-changing polysaccharide ethyl-cellulose to reduce ethanol leakage away from the tumor. Ablation produces tissue necrosis and initiates a wound healing process; however, the characteristic of the immunologic events after ECE ablation of tumors has yet to be explored. Models of triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC), which are classically immunosuppressive and difficult to treat clinically, were used to characterize the immunophenotypic changes after ECE ablation. In poorly invasive TNBC rodent models, the injury to the tumor induced by ECE increased tumor infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) and reduced tumor growth. In a metastatic TNBC model (4T1), TILs did not increase after ECE ablation, though lung metastases were reduced. 4T1 tumors secrete high levels of granulocytic colony stimulating factor (G-CSF), which induces a suppressive milieu of granulocytic myeloid-derived suppressor cells (gMDSCs) aiding in the formation of metastases and suppression of antitumor immunity. We found that a single intratumoral injection of ECE normalized tumor-induced myeloid changes: reducing serum G-CSF and gMDSC populations. ECE also dampened the suppressive strength of gMDSC on CD4 and CD8 cell proliferation, which are crucial for anti-tumor immunity. To demonstrate the utility of these findings, ECE ablation was administered before checkpoint inhibitor (CPI) therapy in the 4T1 model and was found to significantly increase survival compared to a control of saline and CPI. Sixty days after tumor implant no primary tumors or metastatic lung lesions were found in 6/10 mice treated with CPI plus ECE, compared to 1/10 with ECE alone and 0/10 with CPI and saline.
Durable and Versatile Immobilized Carbonic Anhydrase on Textile Structured Packing for CO2 Capture
Authors: Shen Jialong , Yuan Yue , Salmon Sonja
Published: September 2022

High-performance carbon dioxide (CO2)-capture technologies with low environmental impact are necessary to combat the current climate change crisis. Durable and versatile “drop-in-ready” textile structured packings with covalently immobilized carbonic anhydrase (CA) were created as efficient, easy to handle catalysts for CO2 absorption in benign solvents. The hydrophilic textile structure itself contributed high surface area and superior liquid transport properties to promote gas-liquid reactions that were further enhanced by the presence of CA, leading to excellent CO2 absorption efficiencies in lab-scale tests. Mechanistic investigations revealed that CO2 capture efficiency depended primarily on immobilized enzymes at or near the surface, whereas polymer entrapped enzymes were more protected from external stressors than those exposed at the surface, providing strategies to optimize performance and durability. Textile packing with covalently attached enzyme aggregates retained 100% of the initial 66.7% CO2 capture efficiency over 71-day longevity testing and retained 85% of the initial capture efficiency after 1-year of ambient dry storage. Subsequent stable performance in a 500 h continuous liquid flow scrubber test emphasized the material robustness. Biocatalytic textile packings performed well with different desirable solvents and across wide CO2 concentration ranges that are critical for CO2 capture from coal and natural gas-fired power plants, from natural gas and biogas for fuel upgrading, and directly from air.
Validating Discriminative Signatures for Obstructive Sleep Apnea in Exhaled Breath
Authors: Streckenbach Bettina , Osswald Martin , Malesevic Stefan , Zenobi Renato , Kohler Malcolm
Published: September 2022

Rapid and reliable tools for the diagnosis and monitoring of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) are currently lacking. Prior studies using a chemical analysis of exhaled breath have suggested the existence of an OSA-specific metabolic signature. Here, we validated this diagnostic approach and the proposed marker compounds, as well as their potential to reliably diagnose OSA. In this cross-sectional observational study, exhaled breath was analyzed using secondary electrospray ionization high-resolution mass spectrometry. The study cohort included untreated OSA patients, OSA patients treated with continuous positive airway pressure and healthy subjects. The robustness of previously reported OSA markers was validated based on detectability, significant differences between groups (Mann–Whitney U test) and classification performance. The breath analysis of 118 participants resulted in 42 previously reported markers that could be confirmed in this independent validation cohort. Nine markers were significantly increased in untreated OSA compared to treated OSA, with a subset of them being consistent with a previous validation study. An OSA prediction based on the confirmed OSA signature performed with an AUC of 0.80 (accuracy 77%, sensitivity 73% and specificity 80%). As several breath markers were clearly found to be repeatable and robust in this independent validation study, these results underscore the clinical potential of breath analysis for OSA diagnostics and monitoring.
Species-Specific Gamete Interaction during Sea Urchin Fertilization: Roles of the Egg Jelly and Vitelline Layer
Authors: Limatola Nunzia , Chun Jong Tai , Santella Luigia
Published: September 2022

In sea urchins, the sequence of the cellular and molecular events characterizing the fertilization process has been intensively studied. We have learned that to activate the egg, the fertilizing sperm must undergo morphological modifications (the acrosome reaction, AR) upon reaching the outer gelatinous layer enveloping the egg (egg jelly), which triggers the polymerization of F-actin on the sperm head to form the acrosomal process. The AR exposes bindin, an adhesive sperm protein essential for the species-specific interaction with the cognate receptor on the egg vitelline layer. To investigate the specific roles of the egg jelly and vitelline layer at fertilization of sea urchin eggs, Paracentrotus lividus eggs were incubated in acidic seawater, which removes the egg jelly, i.e., experimental conditions that should prevent the occurrence of the AR, and inseminated in the same medium. At variance with the prevailing view, our results have shown that these dejellied P. lividus eggs can still interact with sperm in acidic seawater, albeit with altered fertilization responses. In particular, the eggs deprived of the vitelline layer reacted with multiple sperm but with altered Ca2+ signals. The results have provided experimental evidence that the plasma membrane, and not the vitelline layer, is where the specific recognition between gametes occurs. The vitelline layer works in unfertilized eggs to prevent polyspermy.
Progress in Salicylic Acid-Dependent Signaling for Growth–Defense Trade-Off
Authors: Chan Ching
Published: September 2022

One grand challenge for studying plant biotic and abiotic stress responses is to optimize plant growth and plasticity under variable environmental constraints, which in the long run benefits agricultural production. However, efforts in promoting plant immunity are often accompanied by compromised morphological “syndromes” such as growth retardation, sterility, and reduced yield. Such a trade-off is dictated by complex signaling driven by secondary messengers and phytohormones. Salicylic acid (SA) is a well-known phytohormone essential for basal immunity and systemic acquired resistance. Interestingly, recent updates suggest that external environmental cues, nutrient status, developmental stages, primary metabolism, and breeding strategies attribute an additional layer of control over SA-dependent signaling, and, hence, plant performance against pathogens. In this review, these external and internal factors are summarized, focusing on their specific roles on SA biosynthesis and downstream signaling leading to immunity. A few considerations and future opportunities are highlighted to improve plant fitness with minimal growth compensation.
A New Chemosensor Based on a Luminescent Complex for the Investigation of Some Organophosphorus Pesticides in Environmental Samples
Authors: Alhamami Mohsen A. M. , Algethami Jari S. , Rizk Moustafa A. , Abbas Abbas M. , Khairy Gasser M.
Published: September 2022

Organophosphorus pesticides (OPPs) play a vital role in agriculture. However, their release into the environment can have serious repercussions. Therefore, the development of rapid and reliable methods for determining OPPs has received considerable attention in recent decades. Here, a new chemosensor based on a complex of vitamin B1 (vitB1) as a ligand with europium(III) ion, with a 1:2 stoichiometric ratio, was developed in solution to detect chlorfenvinphos and malathion in water samples using the luminescence method. The detection method is based on the luminescence quenching of a Eu(III)–vitamin B1 probe in solution upon increasing the concentration of chlorfenvinphos or malathion. The optimum solvent for the detection was methanol. The detection limits were 0.31 and 0.12 µM for chlorfenvinphos and malathion, respectively. According to the ratiometric method, malathion has a 13-fold higher binding affinity for the Eu(III)–(vitB1)2 complex than chlorfenvinphos. The reaction between the probe and OPPs under study was spontaneous and had a negative ΔG0. The method was successfully applied to determine chlorfenvinphos and malathion in three different water samples. Based on these studies, future work will be carried out to establish the optic fiber sensor.
Change on the Circulation of Respiratory Viruses and Pediatric Healthcare Utilization during the COVID-19 Pandemic in Asturias, Northern Spain
Authors: García-García Elisa , Rodríguez-Pérez Mercedes , Melón García Santiago , Fernández Montes Reyes , Suárez Castañón Cristina , Amigo Bello Mª Cristina , Rodríguez Dehli Cristina , Pérez-Méndez Carlos , Alonso Álvarez Mª Agustina , Calle-Miguel Laura
Published: September 2022

(1) Background: The COVID-19 pandemic and the implementation of restrictions and nonpharmaceutical interventions (NPIs) changed the trends in respiratory viral circulation and the pattern in pediatric healthcare utilization; (2) Methods: A retrospective, multicenter observational study designed to analyze the impact of the pandemic on pediatric healthcare utilization and the viral circulation pattern in children in a region in Northern Spain was carried out. Viral diagnostics data from all nasal or pharyngeal swabs collected in children in Asturias during the periods of March 2018–September 2019 and March 2020–September 2021 were analyzed, as well as the number of pediatric hospitalizations and emergency visits; (3) Results: A total of 14,640 samples were collected during the pandemic period. Of these, at least one respiratory virus was detected in 2940 (20.1%) while 5568/10,298 samples were positive in the pre-pandemic period (54.1%); p < 0.001. The detection of both enveloped and non-enveloped viruses decreased among periods (p < 0.001). After week 14, 2020, enveloped viruses were no longer detected until one year later, while non-enveloped viruses continued to be detected in children. Overall, a mean of 4946.8 (95% CI 4519.1–5374.4) pediatric emergency visits per month during the period 2018–2019 as compared to 2496.5 (95% CI 2086.4–2906.5) for 2020–2021 occurred (p < 0.001). The mean of pediatric hospitalizations also significantly decreased between periods, as follows: 346.6 (95% CI 313–380.2) in 2018–2019 vs. 161.1 (95% CI 138.4–183.8); p < 0.001; (4) Conclusions: Our study showed a remarkably reduction in pediatric hospitalizations and emergency visits and a change in the pattern of viral circulation during the COVID-19 pandemic in Asturias. The usual seasonal respiratory viruses, namely influenza or RSV were nearly absent in the pediatric population during the pandemic.
Risk Factors and Effect of Intrathoracic Anastomotic Leakage after Esophagectomy for Underlying Malignancy—A Ten-Year Analysis at a Tertiary University Centre
Authors: El-Sourani Nader , Miftode Sorin , Alfarawan Fadl , Troja Achim , Bockhorn Maximilian
Published: September 2022

Aim: Surgical resection remains the treatment of choice for curable esophageal cancer patients. Anastomotic leakage after esophagectomy with an intrathoracic anastomosis is the most feared complication, and is the main cause of postoperative morbidity and mortality. The aim of this study was to identify risk factors associated with anastomotic leakage and its effect on the postoperative outcome. Methods: Between 2012 and 2022, all patients who underwent Ivor Lewis esophagectomy for underlying malignancy were included in this study. We performed a retrospective analysis of 174 patients. The dataset was analyzed to identify risk factors for the occurrence of anastomotic leakage. Results: A total of 174 patients were evaluated. The overall anastomotic leakage rate was 18.96%. The 30-day mortality rate was 8.62%. Multivariate logistic regression analysis identified diabetes (p = 0.0020) and obesity (p = 0.027) as independent risk factors associated with anastomotic leakage. AL had a drastic effect on the combined ICU/IMC and overall hospital stay (p < 0.001. Conclusion: Anastomotic leakage after esophagectomy with intrathoracic anastomosis is the most feared complication and major cause of morbidity and mortality. Identifying risk factors preoperatively can contribute to better patient management.
Development of pH-Indicative and Antimicrobial Films Based on Polyvinyl Alcohol/Starch Incorporated with Ethyl Lauroyl Arginate and Mulberry Anthocyanin for Active Packaging
Authors: Li Nannan , Zhou Zeguang , Wu Fuqi , Lu Yanyue , Jiang Dongyang , Zhong Lei , Xie Fengwei
Published: September 2022

Antibacterial and pH-responsive composite films for active food packaging were fabricated based on polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), cassava starch, ethyl lauroyl arginate (LAE), and mulberry anthocyanin. With the incorporation of LAE and mulberry anthocyanin, the PVA/starch blend films exhibited a less compact and more heterogeneous surface structure. The tensile strength and elongation at break of the active films were not significantly affected when the mulberry anthocyanin content was less than 20%. Moreover, the incorporation of mulberry anthocyanin effectively improved the UV barrier property of the blend films. Notably, while mulberry anthocyanin showed obvious color changes in buffer solutions with different pH values, the changes were indistinguishable for the PVA/starch/mulberry anthocyanin films. By contrast, the color changes of the PVA/starch/LAE/mulberry anthocyanin films were more noticeable, indicating the addition of LAE increased the pH sensitivity of the blend films. Furthermore, the PVA/starch/LAE/mulberry anthocyanin films efficiently inhibited the growth of both Escherichia coli (E. coli) and Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) due to the strong antibacterial activity of LAE. According to the spoilage test, the active films containing 5% mulberry anthocyanin and 5% LAE effectively indicated and slowed down the spoilage process of dairy milk. Our results demonstrate that PVA/starch/LAE/mulberry anthocyanin films have high potential as bioactive packaging materials applied in the food industry.
Understanding Corrosion Degradation Processes of a Multi-Component CoNiCrAlY-Coating System
Authors: Niaz Akbar , Al Fuhaid Abdulrahman Fahad , Faraz Muhammad Iftikhar
Published: September 2022

The thermal insulation and integrity of the thermal barrier coating is hampered by the formation of mixed oxide at intermediate bond coat. The existing reported work correlates growth of mixed oxide to the microstructural and phase changes. The track mostly used to study these changes is scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, and electrochemical testing. Oxide growth is principally an electrochemical process; hence a thirst exists to study this aspect by using advanced electrochemical techniques. In this study scanning electrochemical microscopy is used to reveal the electrochemical activity in the closest vicinity of the surface. A raster scan of 500 µm area was carried out by microelectrode in an electrolyte at a distance of 5 µm above the surface to record the current profile. The activity at the surface was confirmed by current distance curves. The tip of the microelectrode was approached from 60 µm height to 2 µm above the surface. The current–distance curves for the coating without heat-treatment show an active surface while the heat-treated one show non active surface. The average coating electrochemical response was further studied by polarization curves impedance spectroscopy. The X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy results show that oxidation and formation of the mixed oxide increase with polarization.
Scrutinizing Dynamic Cumulant Lattice Boltzmann Large Eddy Simulations for Turbulent Channel Flows
Authors: Gehrke Martin , Rung Thomas
Published: September 2022

This technical paper outlines the predictive performance of a recently published dynamic cumulant lattice Boltzmann method (C-LBM) to model turbulent shear flows at all resolutions. Emphasis is given to a simple strategy that avoids a frequently observed velocity overshoot phenomenon near rigid walls when combining the C-LBM with an all-resolution (universal) wall function. The examples included are confined to turbulent channel flow results for a variety of friction Reynolds numbers within 180 and 50,000, obtained on a sequence of isotropic, homogeneous grids that feature non-dimensional lattice spacings using inner coordinates from 4 to 2200. The results indicate that adjusting the near-wall distance of the first fluid node, i.e., the intersection of the wall with the first lattice edge, to the resolution provides a reasonably simple, robust, and accurate supplement to the all-resolution C-LBM approach. The investigated wall function/C-LBM combination displays a remarkable predictive performance for all investigated resolutions.
Crystal Plasticity (Volume II)
Authors: Polkowski Wojciech
Published: September 2022

When we announced the first volume of a Special Issue dedicated to “Crystal Plasticity”, we could not expect that a great collection of 25 excellent articles would be published [...]
Statistical Modeling of the Machinability of an In-Situ Synthesized RZ5/TiB2 Magnesium Matrix Composite in Dry Turning Condition
Authors: Meher Arabinda , Mahapatra Manas Mohan , Samal Priyaranjan , Vundavilli Pandu Ranga , Shankar Karthik Venkitraman
Published: September 2022

Machinability analyses of metal matrix composites are essential for manufacturing industries. The current study is focused on the mathematical modeling of the machinability of an in-situ synthesized RZ5-8 wt.% TiB2 composite using the Taguchi design statistical tools and analysis of variance (ANOVA). Taguchi’s method indicates that the feed rate is the most influential parameter, followed by the depth of cut and cutting speed in determining the cutting force and surface roughness during the machining of the RZ5/8 wt.% TiB2 composite. A regression analysis of the experimental data was carried out using ANOVA, and regression equations were established to estimate cutting force and surface roughness under different parametric conditions. The regression model was validated for other test conditions and the maximum deviation observed was ±10%. Main effects plots and response surface plots were developed to analyze the machining parameters’ individual and combined effects on the RZ5/8 wt.% TiB2 composite’s machinability. The chip morphology and tool wear of the RZ5/8 wt.% TiB2 composite were analyzed using FESEM under different machining conditions.
Trends in Aluminium Matrix Composite Development
Authors: Ujah Chika Oliver , Kallon Daramy Vandi Von
Published: September 2022

Research shows that monolithic Al alloy has very attractive properties required in the production of aerospace, automotive, electrical and electronic, sports and recreational components/equipment. However, its low strength and low wear resistance have challenged its applications in some other critical industrial utilities. Nonetheless, the invention of metal composites has removed such barriers. The addition of one or more reinforcements to Al has helped in the creation of aluminium matrix composites (AMCs), which has not only increased the global utilization of Al alloy, but has been a major source of global revenue and job. This review was, therefore, aimed at studying recent works on AMCs with the aim of ascertaining the recent innovations in the development of advanced Al composites, which can replace steel components in most industrial applications at a cheaper rate. It was observed from the study that AMCs can be developed via solid and liquid fabrication techniques. Powder metallurgy was reported as the most effective method of producing hybrid Al nanocomposites, with spark plasma sintering as the best technique. In the liquid process, stir casting was reported as the most cost effective, but was challenged by agglomeration. It was recommended that agglomeration be ameliorated by cryogenic ball milling and an in situ fabrication technique. It was also recommended that more cost effective agro-waste nanoparticles should be developed to replace more costly conventional reinforcements. In summary, it was recommended that more research on the exploration of Al alloy at a cheaper rate should be carried out.
Microstructural Characteristics and Mechanical Properties of an Additively Manufactured Nickel-Based Superalloy
Authors: Ma Ke , Wang Jinhai
Published: September 2022

The nickel-based superalloys processed by additive manufacturing are very promising structural materials in aircraft engines as high-pressure turbine discs. In this work, a nickel-based superalloy with good mechanical performance and few defects was manufactured by optimized selective laser melting (SLM) processing. We then investigated the influences of post heat treatments on its microstructural characteristics and mechanical performance. The results indicated that a fine grain size with uniform grain orientation was presented in the as-printed nickel-based superalloy sample. After heat treatments, the grains were slightly grown and grain orientation was also changed. Under transmission electron microscopy, fine subgrains with an approximate size of 0.5 μm were found in the as-printed sample which accompanied massive dislocations and discontinuous Laves phases. After the post heat treatments, fine subgrains and less dislocations were retained. On the other hand, massive γ′ and γ″ precipitates with an orientation relationship of (001)[100]γ′//(100)[001]γ or (001)[100]γ″//(100)[001]γ were formed. As a result, the yield stress and tensile strength increased to 1362 and 1410 MPa, respectively, in a heat-treated sample, which retained the identical elongation of the as-printed specimen.
Morphological and Molecular Studies of Three New Diatom Species from Mountain Streams in South Korea
Authors: Hwang Eun-A , Kim Ha-Kyung , Cho In-Hwan , Yi Chen , Kim Baik-Ho
Published: September 2022

In January 2019, epilithic diatoms were collected from two streams on Mount Gumdan and Mount Yongma near Lake Paldang in central South Korea. A total of 16 diatoms were isolated and classified by molecular and morphological analysis. Morphology was studied by LM and SEM, while the molecular study focused on small subunit (SSU) rRNA and ribulose bisphosphate carboxylase (rbcL) genes. Molecular analysis showed that the three species had clear differences in phylogenetic distance. Based on these findings, we studied the ultrastructure of three species. Among the morphological characteristics, Hannaea librata is longer but narrower and always has conical spines, while the similar species H. pamirensis has bifurcated spines in the central region and conical spines near the pole. Gomphonema seminulum is wider in the axial–central area than G. pumilium. Nitzschia inclinata has a bended valve apex, while N. oligotraphenta has a straight apex.
Raw Milk for Provolone Valpadana PDO Cheese: Impact of Modified Cold Storage Conditions on the Composition of the Bacterial Biota
Authors: Zago Miriam , Bonvini Barbara , Rossetti Lia , Fergonzi Giorgia , Tidona Flavio , Giraffa Giorgio , Carminati Domenico
Published: September 2022

The raw milk for production of long-ripened, spicy type, Provolone Valpadana (PV) PDO cheese must be stored, refrigerated, and processed within 60 h from the first milking, according to European and Consortium regulations. Low-temperature storage conditions preserve the hygienic quality, but also reduce the diversity and content of dairy microbiota, which is important to define the characteristics and quality of raw milk cheeses. Eleven bulk, raw milk samples were stored, at laboratory level, under two different time/temperature conditions (i.e., 10 °C or 12 °C for 15 h, then cooled to 4 °C for 45 h). The count of different bacterial groups and the diversity of bacterial communities were determined before and after storage by culture-dependent and DNA metabarcoding methods, respectively. The two-step cold storage conditions increased the mesophilic, psychrotrophic, lipolytic, and proteolytic bacterial load, without affecting the hygienic quality of milk. Among the 66 dominant and 161 subdominant taxa retrieved by DNA metabarcoding, Acinetobacter, Pseudomonas, and the lactic acid bacteria belonging to the genera Lactococcus and Streptococcus were present in almost all the raw milk samples, and their relative abundance was positively related with the total bacterial count. The storage conditions tested could be considered for eventual application in long-ripened PV cheese production to rationalize storage, transfer, and processing of raw milk.
Electric Source Imaging in Presurgical Evaluation of Epilepsy: An Inter-Analyser Agreement Study
Authors: Mattioli Pietro , Cleeren Evy , Hadady Levente , Cossu Alberto , Cloppenborg Thomas , Arnaldi Dario , Beniczky Sándor
Published: September 2022

Electric source imaging (ESI) estimates the cortical generator of the electroencephalography (EEG) signals recorded with scalp electrodes. ESI has gained increasing interest for the presurgical evaluation of patients with drug-resistant focal epilepsy. In spite of a standardised analysis pipeline, several aspects tailored to the individual patient involve subjective decisions of the expert performing the analysis, such as the selection of the analysed signals (interictal epileptiform discharges and seizures, identification of the onset epoch and time-point of the analysis). Our goal was to investigate the inter-analyser agreement of ESI in presurgical evaluations of epilepsy, using the same software and analysis pipeline. Six experts, of whom five had no previous experience in ESI, independently performed interictal and ictal ESI of 25 consecutive patients (17 temporal, 8 extratemporal) who underwent presurgical evaluation. The overall agreement among experts for the ESI methods was substantial (AC1 = 0.65; 95% CI: 0.59–0.71), and there was no significant difference between the methods. Our results suggest that using a standardised analysis pipeline, newly trained experts reach similar ESI solutions, calling for more standardisation in this emerging clinical application in neuroimaging.
De Novo Mosaic 6p23-p25.3 Tetrasomy Caused by a Small Supernumerary Marker Chromosome Presenting Trisomy Distal 6p Phenotype: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Syu Yu-Min , Ma Juine-Yih , Ou Tzu-Hsuen , Lee Chung-Lin , Lin Hsiang-Yu , Lin Shuan-Pei , Lee Chia-Jung , Chen Chih-Ping
Published: September 2022

Small supernumerary marker chromosomes (sSMCs) derived from the chromosome 6 short arm are rare and their clinical significance remains unknown. No case with sSMC(6) without centromeric DNA has been reported. Partial trisomy and tetrasomy of distal 6p is a rare but clinically distinct syndrome. We report on a de novo mosaic sSMC causing partial tetrasomy for 6p23-p25.3 in a male infant with symptoms of being small for gestational age, microcephaly, facial dysmorphism, congenital eye defects, and multi-system malformation. Conventional cytogenetic analysis revealed a karyotype of 47,XY,+mar [25]/46,XY [22]. Array comparative genomic hybridization (aCGH) revealed mosaic tetrasomy of distal 6p. This is the first case of mosaic tetrasomy 6p23-p25.3 caused by an inverted duplicated neocentric sSMC with characteristic features of trisomy distal 6p. Comparison of phenotypes in cases with trisomy and tetrasomy of 6p23-p25.3 could facilitate a genotype–phenotype correlation and identification of candidate genes contributing to their presentation. The presentation of anterior segment dysgenesis and anomaly of the renal system suggest triplosensitivity of the FOXC1 gene. In patients with microcephaly growth retardation, and malformation of the cardiac and renal systems, presentation of anterior segment dysgenesis might be indicative of chromosome 6p duplication, and aCGH evaluation should be performed for associated syndromic disease.
Combined Locked Nucleic Acid Probes and High-Resolution Melting Curve Analysis for Detection of Rifampicin-Resistant Tuberculosis in Northern Thailand
Authors: Thant Yee Mon , Saikaew Sukanya , Tharinjaroen Chayada Sitthidet , Phunpae Ponrut , Pongsararuk Rodjana , Preechasuth Kanya , Butr-Indr Bordin , Intorasoot Sorasak , Tragoolpua Khajornsak , Chaiprasert Angkana , Wattananandkul Usanee
Published: September 2022

Rifampicin-resistant tuberculosis (RR-TB) has become a major threat globally. This study aims to develop a new assay, RIF-RDp, to enhance the detection of RR-TB based on combined locked nucleic acid (LNA) probes with high-resolution melting curve analysis (HRM). Two new LNA probes were designed to target the class-III and IV mutations of rpoB, H526D, and D516V. LNA probes showed 100% specificity in the detection of mutant targets among characterized and blinded Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) isolates. The performance of RIF-RDp was evaluated using 110 blinded clinical Mtb isolates in northern Thailand against drug-susceptibility testing (DST), DNA sequencing, and a commercial real-time PCR kit. This assay showed sensitivity and specificity of 94.55% and 98.18% compared to DST, and 96.36% and 100% compared to DNA sequencing. The efficacy of RIF-RDp was comparable to the commercial kit and DNA sequencing. The Cohen’s Kappa statistic showed almost perfect agreement between RIF-RDp and the commercial kit (κ = 0.95), and RIF-RDp and DNA sequencing (κ = 0.96). Furthermore, this is the first report of the rare mutation profiles, S531W, and a triple codon deletion (510–512) in northern Thailand. According to high accuracy, the RIF-RDp assay may render an easy-to-use, low-cost, and promising diagnostics of RR-TB in the future.
Senescence-Associated β-Galactosidase Detection in Pathology
Authors: Valieva Yana , Ivanova Elena , Fayzullin Alexey , Kurkov Alexander , Igrunkova Alexandra
Published: September 2022

Activity of β-galactosidase at pH 6 is a classic maker of senescence in cellular biology. Cellular senescence, a state of highly stable cell cycle arrest, is often compared to apoptosis as an intrinsic tumor suppression mechanism. It is also thought that SA-β-gal is crucial in malignant cell transformation. High levels of senescence-associated β-galactosidase (SA-β-gal) can be found in cancer and benign lesions of various localizations making the enzyme a highly promising diagnostic marker for visualization of tumor margins and metastases. These findings facilitate the research of therapy induced senescence as a promising therapeutic strategy. In this review, we address the need to collect and analyze the bulk of clinical and biological data on SA-β-gal mechanisms of action to support wider implementation of this enzyme in medical diagnostics. The review will be of interest to pathologists, biologists, and biotechnologists investigating cellular senescence for purposes of regenerative medicine and oncology.
Positive Effect of Cognitive Training in Older Adults with Different APOE Genotypes and COVID-19 History: A 1-Year Follow-Up Cohort Study
Authors: Zorkina Yana , Syunyakov Timur , Abramova Olga , Andryushchenko Alisa , Andreuyk Denis , Abbazova Evgeniya , Goncharov Dmitry , Rakova Alisa , Andriushchenko Nika , Gryadunov Dmitry , Ikonnikova Anna , Fedoseeva Elena , Emelyanova Marina , Soloveva Kristina , Pavlov Konstantin , Karpenko Olga , Savilov Victor , Kurmishev Marat , Gurina Olga , Chekhonin Vladimir , Kostyuk Georgy , Morozova Anna
Published: September 2022

(1) Background: Older people suffer from cognitive decline; several risk factors contribute to greater cognitive decline. We used acquired (COVID-19 infection) and non-modifiable (presence of APOE rs429358 and rs7412 polymorphisms) factors to study the progression of subjective cognitive impairment while observing patients for one year. Cognitive training was used as a protective factor. (2) Methods: Two groups of subjects over the age of 65 participated in the study: group with subjective cognitive decline receiving cognitive training and individuals who did not complain of cognitive decline without receiving cognitive training (comparison group). On the first visit, the concentration of antibodies to COVID-19 and APOE genotype was measured. At the first and last point (1 year later) the Mini-Mental State Examination scale and the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale were performed. (3) Results: COVID-19 infection did not affect cognitive function. A significant role of cognitive training in improving cognitive functions was revealed. Older adults with APOE-ε4 genotype showed no positive effect of cognitive training. (4) Conclusions: Future research should focus on cognitive dysfunction after COVID-19 in long-term follow-up. Attention to the factors discussed in our article, but not limited to them, are useful for a personalized approach to maintaining the cognitive health of older adults.
Comparing Lean and Obese PCOS in Different PCOS Phenotypes: Evidence That the Body Weight Is More Important than the Rotterdam Phenotype in Influencing the Metabolic Status
Authors: Carmina Enrico , Lobo Rogerio A.
Published: September 2022

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) represents a heterogeneous disorder and, using Rotterdam diagnostic criteria, four main phenotypes (A, B, C, and D) have been distinguished. However, it remains unclear whether lean versus obesity status influences findings in the various phenotypes of women with PCOS. 274 women with PCOS were consecutively assessed. Among these women, there were 149 with phenotype A, 24 with phenotype B, 94 with phenotype C, and 7 with phenotype D. We found normal body weight to be very common (65%) in phenotype C patients, common (43%) in phenotype A and D patients, and less represented (but still 25%) in phenotype B patients. Obesity was common in phenotype B (54%) and phenotype A (33%) patients and uncommon in phenotype C (only 11%) and phenotype D (14%) patients. Obese and lean patients of each phenotype were compared. Compared to the phenotype C PCOS patients, both phenotype A and B patients had higher total testosterone circulating values and higher luteinizing hormone/follicle stimulating hormone (LH/FSH) ratio (p < 0.01) while anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH) levels were higher only in phenotype A PCOS patients. Instead, in the three obese PCOS phenotypes no differences in serum insulin, Homeostatic Model Assessment of Insulin Resistance (HOMA-IR) calculation, and lipid blood values were observed. Analysis of data of lean patients gave similar results. Compared to the phenotype C PCOS patients, both phenotype A and B patients had higher total testosterone circulating values and higher LH/FSH ratio (p < 0.01) while AMH levels were higher only in phenotype A PCOS patients. However, no differences were observed in the circulating insulin levels, HOMA-IR calculation, or blood lipids between the three groups of lean PCOS patients. We conclude that Rotterdam phenotypes express the differences between PCOS patients in terms of ovulatory pattern and androgen secretion but fail to differentiate between obese patients with altered metabolic patterns and lean patients with normal metabolic patterns. A new classification of PCOS patients is needed and it should consider the influence of body weight on the metabolic patterns of PCOS patients.
The Prognostic Value of Ultrasound Findings in Preoperatively Distinguishing between Uncomplicated and Complicated Types of Pediatric Acute Appendicitis Based on Correlation with Intraoperative and Histopathological Findings
Authors: Bekiaridou Konstantina , Kambouri Katerina , Giatromanolaki Alexandra , Foutzitzi Soultana , Kouroupi Maria , Chrysafis Ioannis , Deftereos Savas
Published: September 2022

Objective: This study compares the preoperative ultrasound findings of all children with a clinical picture of acute appendicitis on the basis of intraoperative and histopathological findings to assess the feasibility of this approach in preoperatively distinguishing between uncomplicated and complicated cases. Methods: This retrospective study includes 224 pediatric patients who underwent ultrasound prior to appendectomy at our institution between January 2016 and February 2022. Logistic regression analysis was used to investigate the association between sonographic and intraoperative histopathological findings. Results: Of the 224 participants, 61.1% were intraoperatively diagnosed with uncomplicated appendicitis (59.8% male). Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that patients with a higher appendiceal diameter, presence of appendicolith, and peritonitis were more likely to suffer from complicated appendicitis. Finally, the common anatomical position of the appendix and an appendiceal diameter greater than 6 mm had the highest sensitivity (94.6% and 94.5%, respectively) for predicting complicated appendicitis, with the most specific (99.3%) sonographic finding being the existence of an abscess. Conclusions: Preoperative abdominal ultrasound in children with a clinical diagnosis of acute appendicitis can distinguish between uncomplicated and complicated appendicitis in most cases of pediatric appendicitis. A higher appendiceal diameter, the presence of appendicolith, and peritonitis are parameters noted by ultrasound that strongly predict complicated appendicitis.