bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The ACSL4 Network Regulates Cell Death and Autophagy in Diseases
Authors: Chen Fangquan , Kang Rui , Liu Jiao , Tang Daolin
Published: June 2023

Lipid metabolism, cell death, and autophagy are interconnected processes in cells. Dysregulation of lipid metabolism can lead to cell death, such as via ferroptosis and apoptosis, while lipids also play a crucial role in the regulation of autophagosome formation. An increased autophagic response not only promotes cell survival but also causes cell death depending on the context, especially when selectively degrading antioxidant proteins or organelles that promote ferroptosis. ACSL4 is an enzyme that catalyzes the formation of long-chain acyl-CoA molecules, which are important intermediates in the biosynthesis of various types of lipids. ACSL4 is found in many tissues and is particularly abundant in the brain, liver, and adipose tissue. Dysregulation of ACSL4 is linked to a variety of diseases, including cancer, neurodegenerative disorders, cardiovascular disease, acute kidney injury, and metabolic disorders (such as obesity and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease). In this review, we introduce the structure, function, and regulation of ACSL4; discuss its role in apoptosis, ferroptosis, and autophagy; summarize its pathological function; and explore the potential implications of targeting ACSL4 in the treatment of various diseases.
Volatile Phases Derived from Serum, DC, or MLC Culture Supernatants to Deduce a VOC-Based Diagnostic Profiling Strategy for Leukemic Diseases
Authors: Baudrexler Tobias , Boeselt Tobias , Li Lin , Bohlscheid Sophia , Boas Ursel , Schmid Christoph , Rank Andreas , Schmohl Jörg , Koczulla Rembert , Schmetzer Helga Maria
Published: June 2023

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) reflect the metabolism in healthy and pathological conditions, and can be collected easily in a noninvasive manner. They are directly measured using electronical nose (eNose), and may qualify as a systemic tool to monitor biomarkers related to disease. Myeloid leukemic blasts can be transformed into leukemia-derived dendritic cells (DCleu) able to improve (anti-leukemic) immune responses. To profile immunological changes in healthy and acute myeloid leukemic (AML) patients’ ex vivo cell cultures, we correlated the cell biological data with the profiles of cell culture supernatant-derived VOCs. DC/DCleu from leukemic or healthy whole blood (WB) were generated without (Control) or with immunomodulatory Kit M (Granulocyte macrophage-colony-stimulating-factor (GM-CSF) + prostaglandin E1 (PGE1)) in dendritic cell cultures (DC culture). Kit-pretreated/not pretreated WB was used to stimulate T cell-enriched immunoreactive cells in mixed lymphocyte cultures (MLC culture). Leukemia-specific adaptive and innate immune cells were detected with a degranulation assay (Deg) and an intracellular cytokine assay (InCyt). Anti-leukemic cytotoxicity was explored with a cytotoxicity fluorolysis assay (CTX). VOCs collected from serum or DC- and MLC culture supernatants (with vs. without Kit M pretreatment and before vs. after culture) were measured using eNose. Compared to the Control (without treatment), Kit M-pretreated leukemic and healthy WB gave rise to higher frequencies of mature (leukemia-derived) DC subtypes of activated and (memory) T cells after MLC. Moreover, antigen (leukemia)-specific cells of several lines (innate and adaptive immunity cells) were induced, giving rise to blast-lysing cells. The eNose could significantly distinguish between healthy and leukemic patients’ serum, DC and MLC culture supernatant-derived volatile phases and could significantly separate several supernatant (with vs. without Kit M treatment, cultured vs. uncultured)-derived VOCs within subgroups (healthy DC or leukemic DC, or healthy MLC or leukemic MLC supernatants). Interestingly, the eNose could indicate a Kit M- and culture-associated effect. The eNose may be a prospective option for the deduction of a VOC-based profiling strategy using serum or cell culture supernatants and could be a useful diagnostic tool to recognize or qualify AML disease.
Graphene Oxide-Coated Patterned Silk Fibroin Films Promote Cell Adhesion and Induce Cardiomyogenic Differentiation of Human Mesenchymal Stem Cells
Authors: Wang Jie , Wu Yi , Wang Yecheng , Shuai Yajun , Xu Zongpu , Wan Quan , Chen Yuyin , Yang Mingying
Published: June 2023

Cardiac tissue engineering is a promising strategy for the treatment of myocardial damage. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are extensively used in tissue engineering. However, transformation of MSCs into cardiac myocytes is still a challenge. Furthermore, weak adhesion of MSCs to substrates often results in poor cell viability. Here, we designed a composite matrix based on silk fibroin (SF) and graphene oxide (GO) for improving the cell adhesion and directing the differentiation of MSCs into cardiac myocytes. Specifically, patterned SF films were first produced by soft lithographic. After being treated by air plasma, GO nanosheets could be successfully coated on the patterned SF films to construct the desired matrix (P-GSF). The resultant P-GSF films presented a nano-topographic surface characterized by linear grooves interlaced with GO ridges. The P-GSF films exhibited high protein absorption and suitable mechanical strength. Furthermore, the P-GSF films accelerated the early cell adhesion and directed the growth orientation of MSCs. RT-PCR results and immunofluorescence imaging demonstrated that the P-GSF films significantly improved the cardiomyogenic differentiation of MSCs. This work indicates that patterned SF films coated with GO are promising matrix in the field of myocardial repair tissue engineering.
Impact of Treatment on Systemic Immune-Inflammatory Index and Other Inflammatory Markers in Odontogenic Cervicofacial Phlegmon Cases: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Roi Ciprian Ioan , Roi Alexandra , Nicoară Adrian , Nica Diana , Rusu Laura Cristina , Soancă Andrada , Motofelea Alexandru Cătălin , Riviș Mircea
Published: June 2023

Cervicofacial odontogenic infections can have an aggressive evolution with life-threatening complications. Management in many cases can be a challenge for clinicians, implying an extra focus on individual inflammatory parameters. The aim of this study is to evaluate the evolution of inflammatory markers for the included diagnosed odontogenic cervicofacial phlegmon cases at the moment of hospitalization and after receiving surgical and pharmaceutical treatment. Materials and methods: A total of 39 patients diagnosed with odontogenic cervicofacial phlegmons that were admitted to the Maxillofacial Surgery Department of the Emergency Hospital from Timisoara were included in the study. The main focus was the parameters represented by the systemic immune-inflammatory index (SII) based on neutrophil, platelet, and lymphocytes count; the neutrophil–lymphocyte ratio (NLR); C-reactive protein level (CRP); and white blood cell count (WBC) before and after the treatment as potential prognosis factors. Results: The results of the study after analyzing the included parameters revealed a significant difference between the calculated values of the SII, NLR, CRP, and WBC at admission and at time of discharge, being directly influenced by the treatment. Conclusions: SII, NLR, CRP, and WBC dynamic changes in severe cervicofacial odontogenic infections can be influenced by receiving accurate surgical and pharmacological treatment, with the potential to become future severity prognosis indexes.
Three-Dimensional Printing of Living Mycelium-Based Composites: Material Compositions, Workflows, and Ways to Mitigate Contamination
Authors: Mohseni Alale , Vieira Fabricio Rocha , Pecchia John A. , Gürsoy Benay
Published: June 2023

The construction industry makes a significant contribution to global CO2 emissions. Material extraction, processing, and demolition account for most of its environmental impact. As a response, there is an increasing interest in developing and implementing innovative biomaterials that support a circular economy, such as mycelium-based composites. The mycelium is the network of hyphae of fungi. Mycelium-based composites are renewable and biodegradable biomaterials obtained by ceasing mycelial growth on organic substrates, including agricultural waste. Cultivating mycelium-based composites within molds, however, is often wasteful, especially if molds are not reusable or recyclable. Shaping mycelium-based composites using 3D printing can minimize mold waste while allowing intricate forms to be fabricated. In this research, we explore the use of waste cardboard as a substrate for cultivating mycelium-based composites and the development of extrudable mixtures and workflows for 3D-printing mycelium-based components. In this paper, existing research on the use of mycelium-based material in recent 3D printing efforts was reviewed. This review is followed by the MycoPrint experiments that we conducted, and we focus on the main challenges that we faced (i.e., contamination) and the ways in which we addressed them. The results of this research demonstrate the feasibility of using waste cardboard as a substrate for cultivating mycelia and the potential for developing extrudable mixtures and workflows for 3D-printing mycelium-based components.
Europium Nanoparticle-Based Lateral Flow Strip Biosensors Combined with Recombinase Polymerase Amplification for Simultaneous Detection of Five Zoonotic Foodborne Pathogens
Authors: Jin Bei , Ma Biao , Mei Qing , Xu Shujuan , Deng Xin , Hong Yi , Li Jiali , Xu Hanyue , Zhang Mingzhou
Published: June 2023

The five recognized zoonotic foodborne pathogens, namely, Listeria monocytogenes, Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus suis, Salmonella enterica and Escherichia coli O157:H7, pose a major threat to global health and social–economic development. These pathogenic bacteria can cause human and animal diseases through foodborne transmission and environmental contamination. Rapid and sensitive detection for pathogens is particularly important for the effective prevention of zoonotic infections. In this study, rapid and visual europium nanoparticle (EuNP)-based lateral flow strip biosensors (LFSBs) combined with recombinase polymerase amplification (RPA) were developed for the simultaneous quantitative detection of five foodborne pathogenic bacteria. Multiple T lines were designed in a single test strip for increasing the detection throughput. After optimizing the key parameters, the single-tube amplified reaction was completed within 15 min at 37 °C. The fluorescent strip reader recorded the intensity signals from the lateral flow strip and converted the data into a T/C value for quantification measurement. The sensitivity of the quintuple RPA-EuNP-LFSBs reached a level of 101 CFU/mL. It also exhibited good specificity and there was no cross-reaction with 20 non-target pathogens. In artificial contamination experiments, the recovery rate of the quintuple RPA-EuNP-LFSBs was 90.6–101.6%, and the results were consistent with those of the culture method. In summary, the ultrasensitive bacterial LFSBs described in this study have the potential for widespread application in resource-poor areas. The study also provides insights in respect to multiple detection in the field.
The Relationship between Error Management, Safety Climate, and Job-Stress Perception in the Construction Industry: The Mediating Role of Psychological Capital
Authors: Maqsoom Ahsen , Ashraf Hassan , Alaloul Wesam , Salman Alaa , Ullah Fahim , Ghufran Maria , Musarat Muhammad
Published: June 2023

Job stress (JS) is a significant issue in the construction industry of developing countries. This study aims to examine the impact of error-management climate (EMC), safety climate (SC), and psychological capital (PC) (as a mediator) on employee JS in the construction industry, and establish relationships between these constructs. A questionnaire survey was conducted to gather data from 144 respondents. The study’s hypothesized relationships were tested using partial-least-squares structural-equation modeling (PLS-SEM). The analysis indicated a positive association between EMC and PC. Conversely, EMC did not have a negative impact on JS. The study also established a constructive relationship between SC and PC, and a significant negative association between SC and JS. Regarding mediation, PC was found to partially mediate the effect of EMC on JS, accounting for 55% of the variance accounted for (VAF). The study’s innovative contribution lies in exploring the limited research on PC within the construction industry, and investigating the interactions among SC, EMC, PC, and JS.
Anodic Catalyst Support via Titanium Dioxide-Graphene Aerogel (TiO2-GA) for A Direct Methanol Fuel Cell: Response Surface Approach
Authors: Osman Siti Hasanah , Kamarudin Siti Kartom , Basri Sahriah , Karim Nabila A.
Published: June 2023

The direct methanol fuel cell (DMFC) has the potential for portable applications. However, it has some drawbacks that make commercialisation difficult owing to its poor kinetic oxidation efficiency and non-economic cost. To enhance the performance of direct methanol fuel cells, various aspects should be explored, and operational parameters must be tuned. This research was carried out using an experimental setup that generated the best results to evaluate the effectiveness of these variables on electrocatalysis performance in a fuel cell system. Titanium dioxide-graphene aerogel (TiO2-GA) has not yet been applied to the electrocatalysis area for fuel cell application. As a consequence, this research is an attempt to boost the effectiveness of direct methanol fuel cell electrocatalysts by incorporating bifunctional PtRu and TiO2-GA. The response surface methodology (RSM) was used to regulate the best combination of operational parameters, which include the temperature of composite TiO2-GA, the ratio of Pt to Ru (Pt:Ru), and the PtRu catalyst composition (wt%) as factors (input) and the current density (output) as a response for the optimisation investigation. The mass activity is determined using cyclic voltammetry (CV). The best-operating conditions were determined by RSM-based performance tests at a composition temperature of 202 °C, a Pt/Ru ratio of (1.1:1), and a catalyst composition of 22%. The best response is expected to be 564.87 mA/mgPtRu. The verification test is performed, and the average current density is found to be 568.15 mA/mgPtRu. It is observed that, after optimisation, the PtRu/TiO2-GA had a 7.1 times higher current density as compared to commercial PtRu. As a result, a titanium dioxide-graphene aerogel has potential as an anode electrocatalyst in direct methanol fuel cells.
HnRNP Pathologies in Frontotemporal Lobar Degeneration
Authors: Jiang Xinwa , Gatt Ariana , Lashley Tammaryn
Published: June 2023

Frontotemporal dementia (FTD) is the second most common form of young-onset (<65 years) dementia. Clinically, it primarily manifests as a disorder of behavioural, executive, and/or language functions. Pathologically, frontotemporal lobar degeneration (FTLD) is the predominant cause of FTD. FTLD is a proteinopathy, and the main pathological proteins identified so far are tau, TAR DNA-binding protein 43 (TDP-43), and fused in sarcoma (FUS). As TDP-43 and FUS are members of the heterogeneous ribonucleic acid protein (hnRNP) family, many studies in recent years have expanded the research on the relationship between other hnRNPs and FTLD pathology. Indeed, these studies provide evidence for an association between hnRNP abnormalities and FTLD. In particular, several studies have shown that multiple hnRNPs may exhibit nuclear depletion and cytoplasmic mislocalisation within neurons in FTLD cases. However, due to the diversity and complex association of hnRNPs, most studies are still at the stage of histological discovery of different hnRNP abnormalities in FTLD. We herein review the latest studies relating hnRNPs to FTLD. Together, these studies outline an important role of multiple hnRNPs in the pathogenesis of FTLD and suggest that future research into FTLD should include the whole spectrum of this protein family.
Investigation of the Quartz Distribution in Electro-Porcelain Materials
Authors: Senze Fanni , Höhn Sören , Matthey Björn , Schulte-Fischedick Jan , Herrmann Mathias
Published: June 2023

Analysis of the microstructure of electro-porcelain is important to better understand its influence on mechanical, electrical and aging behavior. The microstructures of two electro-porcelain materials with low and high quartz contents were analyzed with respect to the distribution of quartz. Using an adequate evaluation of EDS (energy dispersive spectroscopy) mapping data, a reproducible analysis of the size distribution and quantity of quartz was achieved. The method allows the analysis of large areas (12.5 mm2). Therefore, the probability of occurrence for a few large quartz grains could be determined. Independent of the overall amount of quartz in the materials, a wide distribution of the grain size was observed. The size of the large detected quartz grains in both materials was very similar. Around the large quartz particles, microcrack systems with lengths of several 100 µm were observed. They are linearly correlated with the equivalent circle diameter of the quartz grains. The evaluation of the cracks allowed us to determine the critical size below which no cracks around the quartz particles are formed. This size is approximately 10 µm.
Infrared and Terahertz Spectra of Sn-Doped Vanadium Dioxide Films
Authors: Grebenchukov Alexander , Boytsova Olga , Shakhmin Alexey , Tatarenko Artem , Makarevich Olga , Roslyakov Ilya , Kropotov Grigory , Khodzitsky Mikhail
Published: June 2023

This work reports the effect of tin (Sn) doping on the infrared (IR) and terahertz (THz) properties of vanadium dioxide (VO2) films. The films were grown by hydrothermal synthesis with a post-annealing process and then fully characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), Raman spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and temperature-controlled electrical resistivity as well as IR and THz spectroscopy techniques. Utilizing (NH4)2SnF6 as a Sn precursor allows the preparation of homogeneous Sn-doped VO2 films. Doping of VO2 films with Sn led to an increase in the thermal hysteresis width while conserving the high modulation depth in the mid-IR regime, which would be beneficial for the applications of VO2 films in IR memory devices. A further analysis shows that Sn doping of VO2 films significantly affects the temperature-dependent THz optical properties, in particular leading to the suppression of the temperature-driven THz transmission modulation. These results indicate Sn-doped VO2 films as a promising material for the development of switchable IR/THz dichroic components.
A Simple and Efficient Strategy for Preparation of Flexible Strain Sensors Based on Marangoni Effect
Authors: Bai Xuqiu , Xu Zhichun , Li Xianyi , Zhao Tiantian , Ge Xiang , Yuan Caideng
Published: June 2023

The Marangoni effect is a phenomenon of mass transfer between two fluids with different surface tensions, which has been used in many fields. In this paper, we prepared ultrathin conductive films with graphene (GN) and carbon nanotubes (CNTs) based on the Marangoni effect. The Marangoni self-assembled film exhibited excellent properties, showing a conductivity of 8.3 kΩ·sq−1, a transparency of 74% at 550 nm and a thickness of 28 nm when the mass ratio of CNTs and GN was 1:1. The conductive films were transferred to flexible substrates twice and fabricated face to face as strain sensors. The 3M4910-based strain sensors, which were prepared with a simple process and high material utilization rate, exhibited good sensitivity (GF = 5.7), a wide working range (193%) and satisfactory cyclic stability. The PDMS-based GN sensor showed high sensitivity (GF = 34), a wide working range (78%) and excellent stability (ε = 10%, > 8000 cycles). It has been proved that the sensors can be used to detect different joint movements of the human body and subtle movements, showing good application prospects in physiological signal detection.
Influence of a Non-Resonant Intense Laser and Structural Defect on the Electronic and Optical Properties of a GaAs Quantum Ring under Inversely Quadratic Potential
Authors: León-González José C. , Toscano-Negrette Rafael G. , Vinasco Juan A. , Morales Alvaro L. , Mora-Ramos Miguel E. , Duque Carlos A.
Published: June 2023

We investigated the impact of a non-resonant intense laser, structural defects, and magnetic fields on the electronic and optical properties of a simple GaAs quantum ring under the inverse quadratic Hellmann potential, using the effective mass and parabolic band approximations. We obtained the energies and wavefunctions by solving the 2D Schrodinger’s equation using the finite-element numerical technique to analyze this. We considered circular polarization to calculate the dipole matrix elements, which were influenced by the laser field and structural defects in the system. This enabled us to study the linear absorption coefficients. Our results demonstrated that the presence of a laser field and a structural defect disrupt the axial symmetry of the problem. When only the non-resonant laser was present, a pattern of excited states appeared in pairs, which oscillated with the magnetic field. However, the amplitude of the oscillation decreased as the magnetic field strength increased, and these oscillations disappeared when the structural defect was introduced. It was also noted that the intensity and position of the linear optical absorption peaks exhibited a non-monotonic behavior with the magnetic field in the absence of a structural defect. However, this behavior changed when the structural defect was present, depending on the type of polarization (right or left circular). Finally, a clear improvement in the absorption peaks with an increase in the laser parameter is reported.
The Expression of Fibrogenic Cytokines by Human Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells in Response to SARS-CoV-2 Spike Protein
Authors: Aeby Michael , Blanc Pauline , Fellay Isabelle , Oberson Anne , Filgueira Luis
Published: June 2023

SARS-CoV-2, a single stranded positive RNA-virus, emerged in 2019 and caused a global pandemic. Some infected patients develop severe complications, such as acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) and pulmonary fibrosis. The mechanisms leading to lung fibrosis in the context of COVID-19 are still unclear. However, there are correlations between this condition and certain inflammatory mediators that are elevated in the plasma of patients. This study addressed the question of whether SARS-CoV-2 spike protein was able to directly activate immune cells to produce inflammatory and fibrogenic cytokines, independent of viral infection. By stimulating peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) from healthy blood donors through different formulations of SARS-CoV-2 spike protein, the expression of fibrogenic and inflammatory cytokines was measured. The spike protein induced a significantly increased expression of IL-1β and IL-6 mRNA in PBMC. Both cytokines are important players in the COVID-19 cytokine storm, in ARDS and in the development of pulmonary fibrosis. Different receptors with an affinity to the spike protein may be involved. However, the exact mechanism on how the spike protein leads to a higher cytokine expression in PBMC needs further investigation.
Structural Disorder of CuO, ZnO, and CuO/ZnO Nanowires and Their Effect on Thermal Conductivity
Authors: Giraldo-Daza Helver Augusto , Agudelo-Giraldo José Darío , Londoño-Calderón César Leandro , Reyes-Pineda Henry
Published: June 2023

In this work, the structural defects and the thermal conductivity of CuO, ZnO, and CuO/ZnO nanowires have been studied, using molecular dynamics simulation with COMB3 potential. The initial parameters and atoms positions were taken from reports of bulk materials with tenorite and wurtzite structures, respectively. Nanowires were grown along the c-axis, as observed experimentally. The results confirm the defects apparition in the systems after simulation with a formation of grains to reduce the energy of the nanowires. In the CuO nanowires case, the lack of periodicity in the basal plane causes a contraction effect over the network parameter b of the monoclinic structure with a Cu-O distance reduction. [A constriction effect on inclined planes, as a product of surface charges, deforms the nanowire, generating undulations. In ZnO nanowires, a decrease in the Zn-Zn distance produced a contraction in the nanowire length. A constriction effect was evident on the surface charges. It presented a bond reduction effect, which was larger at the ends of the nanowire. In CuO/ZnO nanowires, the structural defects come from the distortions of the crystalline lattice of the ZnO rather than CuO. The thermal conductivity of the nanowires was calculated at temperatures between 200 K and 600 K using the Green–Kubo equation. Results showed similar values to those reported experimentally, and the characteristic maximum with similar trends to those observed in semiconductors. Our results suggest that structural defects appear in nanowires grown on the free substrate, and are not related to the lattice mismatch.
Novel Porous Organic Polymer for High-Performance Pb(II) Adsorption from Water: Synthesis, Characterization, Kinetic, and Isotherm Studies
Authors: Melhi Saad , Alosaimi Eid H. , El-Gammal Belal , Alshahrani Wafa A. , El-Aryan Yasser F. , Al-Shamiri Hamdan A. , Elhouichet Habib
Published: June 2023

The aim of the current study was to develop a novel triphenylaniline-based porous organic polymer (TPABPOP-1) by the Friedel–Crafts reaction for the efficient elimination of Pb(II) from an aqueous environment. XPS, FTIR, SEM, TGA, and 13C CP/MAS NMR analyses were applied to characterize the synthesized TPABPOP-1 polymer. The BET surface area of the TPABPOP-1 polymer was found to be 1290 m2/g. FTIR and XPS techniques proved the uptake of Pb(II) was successfully adsorbed onto TPABPOP-1. Using batch methods, Pb(II) ion adsorption on the TPABPOP-1 was studied at different equilibrium times, pH values, initial Pb(II) concentration, adsorption mass, and temperature. The outcomes exhibited that the optimum parameters were t: 180 min, m: 0.02 g, pH: 5, T: 308 K, and [Pb(II)]: 200 mg/L. Nonlinear isotherms and kinetics models were investigated. The Langmuir isotherm model suggested that the uptake of Pb(II) was favorable on the homogeneous surface of TPABPOP-1. Adsorption kinetics showed that the PFO model was followed. Pb(II) removal mechanisms of TPABPOP-1 may include surface adsorption and electrostatic attraction. The uptake capacity for Pb(II) was identified to be 472.20 mg/g. Thermodynamic factors exhibited that the uptake of Pb(II) was endothermic and spontaneous in standard conditions. Finally, this study provides effective triphenylaniline-based porous organic polymers (TPABPOP-1) as a promising adsorbent with high uptake capacity.
Dataset of Program Source Codes Solving Unique Programming Exercises Generated by Digital Teaching Assistant
Authors: Demidova Liliya A. , Andrianova Elena G. , Sovietov Peter N. , Gorchakov Artyom V.
Published: June 2023

This paper presents a dataset containing automatically collected source codes solving unique programming exercises of different types. The programming exercises were automatically generated by the Digital Teaching Assistant (DTA) system that automates a massive Python programming course at MIREA—Russian Technological University (RTU MIREA). Source codes of the small programs grouped by the type of the solved task can be used for benchmarking source code classification and clustering algorithms. Moreover, the data can be used for training intelligent program synthesizers or benchmarking mutation testing frameworks, and more applications are yet to be discovered. We describe the architecture of the DTA system, aiming to provide detailed insight regarding how and why the dataset was collected. In addition, we describe the algorithms responsible for source code analysis in the DTA system. These algorithms use vector representations of programs based on Markov chains, compute pairwise Jensen–Shannon divergences of programs, and apply hierarchical clustering algorithms in order to automatically discover high-level concepts used by students while solving unique tasks. The proposed approach can be incorporated into massive programming courses when there is a need to identify approaches implemented by students.
Differences in Tumour Aggressiveness Based on Molecular Subtype and Race Measured by [18F]FDG PET Metabolic Metrics in Patients with Invasive Carcinoma of the Breast
Authors: Abubakar Sofiullah , More Stuart , Tag Naima , Olabinjo Afusat , Isah Ahmed , Lawal Ismaheel
Published: June 2023

Breast cancer in women of African descent tends to be more aggressive with poorer prognosis. This is irrespective of the molecular subtype. [18F]FDG PET/CT metrics correlate with breast cancer aggressiveness based on molecular subtype. This study investigated the differences in [18F]FDG PET/CT metrics of locally advanced invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC) among different racial groups and molecular subtypes. Qualitative and semiquantitative readings of [18F]FDG PET/CT acquired in women with locally advanced IDC were performed. Biodata including self-identified racial grouping and histopathological data of the primary breast cancer were retrieved. Statistical analysis for differences in SUVmax, MTV and TLG of the primary tumour and the presence of regional and distant metastases was conducted based on molecular subtype and race. The primary tumour SUVmax, MTV, TLG and the prevalence of distant metastases were significantly higher in Black patients compared with other races (p < 0.05). The primary tumour SUVmax and presence of distant metastases in the luminal subtype and the primary tumour SUVmax and TLG in the basal subtype were significantly higher in Black patients compared with other races (p < 0.05). The significantly higher PET parameters in Black patients with IDC in general and in those with luminal and basal carcinoma subtypes suggest a more aggressive disease phenotype in this race.
Peritumoural Strain Elastography of Newly Diagnosed Breast Tumours: Does Maximum Peritumoural Halo Depth Correlate with Tumour Differentiation and Grade?
Authors: Gruber Leonhard , Deeg Johannes , Egle Daniel , Soleiman Afschin , Ladenhauf Valentin , Luger Anna , Amort Birgit , Daniaux Martin
Published: June 2023

To evaluate the diagnostic utility of the maximum ultrasound strain elastography (SE) halo depth in newly diagnosed and histologically confirmed breast lesions, a retrospective study approval was granted by the local Ethical Review Board. Overall, the maximum strain elastography peritumoural halos (SEPHmax)—the maximum distance between the SE stiffening area and the B-mode lesion size—in 428 cases with newly diagnosed breast lesions were retrospectively analysed alongside patient age, affected quadrant, tumour echogenicity, size, acoustic shadowing, and vascularity. Statistical analysis included an ordinary one-way ANOVA to compare the SEPHmax between BI-RADS 2, 3, and 5 groups and between tumour grades 1, 2, and 3. A binary regression analysis was used to determine the correlation between tumour malignancy and the above-mentioned demographic and imaging factors. SEPHmax was significantly higher in BI-RADS 5 tumours (5.5 ± 3.9 mm) compared to BI-RADS 3 (0.9 ± 1.7 mm, p < 0.0001) and 2 (0.6 ± 1.4 mm, p < 0.0001). The receiver operating characteristic area under the curve was 0.933 for the detection of BI-RADS 5 lesions. Furthermore, tumour grades 2 (5.6 ± 3.6 mm, p = 0.001) and 3 (6.8 ± 4.2 mm, p < 0.0001) exhibited significantly higher SEPHmax than grade 1 tumours (4.0 ± 3.9 mm). Similarly, St. Gallen Ki67-stratified low-risk (p = 0.005) and intermediate-risk (p = 0.013) tumours showed smaller SEPHmax than high-risk tumours. Multivariate analysis revealed a significant correlation between malignant differentiation and SEPHmax (standardized regression coefficient 3.17 [95% confidence interval (CI) 2.42–3.92], p < 0.0001), low tumour echogenicity (1.68 [95% CI 0.41–3.00], p = 0.03), and higher patient age (0.89 [95% CI 0.52–1.26], p < 0.0001). High SEPHmax is a strong predictor for tumour malignancy and a higher tumour grade and can be used to improve tumour characterisation before histopathological evaluation. It may also enable radiologists to identify lesions warranting observation rather than immediate biopsy.
Comparison of Tooth Color and Enamel and Dentinal Thickness between Orthodontically Treated and Untreated Individuals
Authors: Hakami Zaki , Marghalani Hussain YA , Hedad Ismaeel , Khawaji Mazen , Abutaleb Ghadah , Hakami Amjad , Almoammar Salem , Alshehri Abdulrahman
Published: June 2023

This study compared tooth color and enamel and dentinal thickness between orthodontically treated and untreated individuals. (1) Methods: A matched case–control study was conducted. The sample included 26 patients who had received orthodontic treatment and 31 matched controls. The color assessment was performed subjectively using the VITA 3D-Master (VM) shade guide and objectively using the VITA Easyshade (VE) spectrophotometer. Differences in L*, a*, and b* (lightness, red/green, and blue/yellow) were calculated. The color change was evaluated using ΔE*ab and the whiteness index (WID). Tooth structure thickness (labiolingual, labial enamel, and labial dentin) was evaluated using cone-beam computerized tomography. The correlations between overall tooth color and tooth structure thickness were evaluated. (2) Results: A total of 228 teeth were evaluated. Color assessment using VM showed significant differences between orthodontically treated and untreated teeth (p < 0.001), while VE revealed no significant differences. Both groups showed no difference in tooth enamel and dentinal thickness. Significant differences in tooth color (p < 0.05) were observed between genders. Both VM and VE showed weak to moderate correlations with tooth color and enamel and dentinal thickness (p < 0.05). (3) Conclusions: Orthodontic treatment may demonstrate visually perceptible but acceptable and clinically undetectable tooth color alteration.
Worldwide Prevalence of Epstein–Barr Virus in Patients with Burkitt Lymphoma: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Al-Khreisat Mutaz Jamal , Ismail Nor Hayati , Tabnjh Abedelmalek , Hussain Faezahtul Arbaeyah , Mohamed Yusoff Abdul Aziz , Johan Muhammad Farid , Islam Md Asiful
Published: June 2023

Burkitt lymphoma (BL) is a form of B-cell malignancy that progresses aggressively and is most often seen in children. While Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) is a double-stranded DNA virus that has been linked to a variety of cancers, it can transform B lymphocytes into immortalized cells, as shown in BL. Therefore, the estimated prevalence of EBV in a population may assist in the prediction of whether this population has a high risk of increased BL cases. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to estimate the prevalence of Epstein–Barr virus in patients with Burkitt lymphoma. Using the appropriate keywords, four electronic databases were searched. The quality of the included studies was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute’s critical appraisal tool. The results were reported as percentages with a 95% confidence interval using a random-effects model (CI). PROSPERO was used to register the protocol (CRD42022372293), and 135 studies were included. The prevalence of Epstein–Barr virus in patients with Burkitt lymphoma was 57.5% (95% CI: 51.5 to 63.4, n = 4837). The sensitivity analyses demonstrated consistent results, and 65.2% of studies were of high quality. Egger’s test revealed that there was a significant publication bias. EBV was found in a significantly high proportion of BL patients (more than 50% of BL patients). This study recommends EBV testing as an alternative for predictions and the assessment of the clinical disease status of BL.
Acute Appendicitis Following COVID-19 Infection in Pediatric Patients: A Single Center’s Study in Greece
Authors: Kaselas Christos , Florou Maria , Tsopozidi Maria , Spyridakis Ioannis
Published: June 2023

Purpose: This study investigated the potential association between the previous severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) positive infection, as well as vaccination, and the presentation of acute appendicitis in pediatric patients. It has been three years since the World Health Organization (WHO) declared the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, and city lockdowns and self-protective measures have been applied worldwide. In an effort to contribute to the research on the probable long-term complications of the COVID-19 infection as well as the vaccination against SARS-CoV-2, the current study was designed and investigated patients’ health records in the post-quarantine era. Methods: A retrospective analysis of patients admitted and treated surgically for acute appendicitis from January 2022 to June 2022 was conducted. Demographic and personal data, as well as the COVID-19 infection history of each child, were recorded. The patients who were negative for a previous COVID-19 infection were excluded. For the rest of the sample, the time-to-onset of acute appendicitis, the severity of appendicitis (complicated or uncomplicated), and the vaccination status of the patients were examined. Regarding the time-to-onset of appendicitis, we divided the patients into three groups: group A with a time-to-onset < 3 months, group B with a time-to-onset of 3–6 months, and group C with a time-to-onset of >6 months. Statistical analysis followed and was considered significant if p < 0.05. Results: Sixty-six children with a mean age of 10.5 years (range 1–15 years) were admitted for acute appendicitis during the determined period. After excluding 30 children that were negative for previous COVID-19 infection, we divided the patients into three groups: group A-23 children, group B-7 children, and group C-6 children. A statistically significant incidence of acute appendicitis diagnosis in <3 months after laboratory-confirmed COVID-19 infection (p < 0.01) was found. The incidence of complicated appendicitis was greater in patients with a positive SARS-CoV-2 history, with an estimated odds ratio of 1.8 (p > 0.05). The majority of the children (92%) had not received a COVID-19 vaccination. For the vaccinated children, the relative risk for complicated appendicitis was equal to 1.5 (p > 0.05). Conclusions: The results of our study demonstrate a potential positive relationship between COVID-19 infection and subsequent acute appendicitis in pediatric patients. There are also some speculations on the presentation of complicated cases of appendicitis following COVID-19 infection or vaccination, but these need to be further proven. Further data are required to better understand this potential complication of COVID-19 infection as well as the role of vaccines in the current post-vaccine era.
Molecular Testing in Ovarian Tumours: Challenges from the Pathologist’s Perspective
Authors: Dinneen Kate , Arora Rupali
Published: June 2023

The use of molecular testing to direct diagnosis and treatment options in ovarian tumours has rapidly expanded in recent years, in particular with regard to the recommendation for routine homologous recombination deficiency (HRD) testing in all patients with high-grade ovarian epithelial tumours. The implications of this increased level of testing upon the pathologist is significant in terms of increased workload, the provision of adequate tumour samples for molecular testing, and the interpretation of complex molecular pathology reports. In order to optimise the quality of reports generated, it is important to establish clear pathways of communication on both a local and national level between clinicians, pathology lab staff, and medical scientists. On a national level, in the United Kingdom, Genomic Laboratory Hubs (GLHs) have been established to provide a uniform high-quality molecular diagnostics service to all patients with ovarian tumours within the National Health services in the country. On a local level, there are a number of small steps that can be taken to improve the quality of tissues available for testing and to streamline the processes involved in generating requests for molecular testing. This article discusses these factors from the perspective of the clinical histopathologist.
Simple and Accurate Model for the Propagation Delay in MCML Gates
Authors: Giustolisi Gianluca , Scotti Giuseppe , Palumbo Gaetano
Published: June 2023

In this article, we develop a simple and accurate model for evaluating the propagation delay in MOS Current-Mode Logic (MCML) gates. The model describes the behavior of MCML gates in a linear fashion despite the circuits themselves being non-linear. Indeed, we demonstrate that a linear model can be used, provided that, for each small-signal parameter, its average value calculated between the two different switching logic states is used. The proposed model is validated through simulations of MCML universal gates designed using modern nanometer processes. The model forecasts simulated values with an error lower than 4% and 20% in 65-nm standard CMOS and 28-nm Fully-Depleted Silicon-On-Insulator (FD-SOI), respectively.
The Energy-Saving Effect of E-Commerce Development—A Quasi-Natural Experiment in China
Authors: Liu Mengyao , Hou Yan , Jiang Hongli
Published: June 2023

This study provides a viable path to save energy by means of e-commerce development. Taking the national e-commerce demonstration cities (NEDC) pilots policy implemented in China as a quasi-natural experiment, based on the city panel data from 2006 to 2019, this study applies the multi-period difference-in-difference (DID) method to evaluate the effect of NEDC on energy saving in pilot cities. The empirical results suggest that the NEDC policy obviously contributes to energy conservation. The treated cities reduced energy consumption by 14.2% as a result of the implementation of NEDC, relative to the untreated cities. The conclusions remain valid after conducting robustness tests such as placebo test, instrumental variables regression, propensity score matching-difference-in-difference (PSM-DID), and synthetic difference-in-difference (SDID). The NEDC achieves energy-saving effects through technological innovation, industrial restructuring, and economic agglomeration. Furthermore, the heterogeneity analysis indicates that, in cities with high levels of human capital, well-developed information infrastructure, non-resource-based cities, and favorable business environments, the impact of NEDC on energy saving is more significant. Analysis of spatial effects shows that the implementation of NEDC has negative externalities, increasing energy consumption in the surrounding area. In the context of the digital economy, this paper presents new insights on the relationship between e-commerce and energy consumption and provides policy direction for countries looking for energy-saving solutions.
Effect of the Mixed Inoculation of Lactic Acid Bacteria and Non-Saccharomyces on the Quality and Flavor Enhancement of Fermented Mango Juice
Authors: Zhong Qiuping , Chen Ruixin , Zhang Ming , Chen Wenxue , Chen Haiming , Chen Weijun
Published: June 2023

Mango juice (MJ) was co-inoculated with Lactobacillus plantarum + Rhodotorula glutinis or Metschnikowia pulcherrima (LP + RG or LP + MP, respectively) and Lactobacillus casei + Rhodotorula glutinis or Metschnikowia pulcherrima (LC + RG or LC + MP, respectively) to evaluate their effect on the physicochemical characteristics, antioxidant capacity, and aroma compounds of MJ after 72 h of fermentation at 28 °C. Results indicated that among the fermented MJ, that which was fermented with LC + RG yielded the highest content of total acid (15.05 g/L). The pH values of MJ fermented with LC + MP, LC + RG, LP + RG, and LP + MP were 3.36, 3.33, 3.26, and 3.19, respectively, and were lower than that of CK (4.79). The juice fermented with LP + MP culture had the lowest sugar content (73.52 g/L), and those fermented with LP + RG and LP + MP had higher total phenol contents and stronger DPPH radical scavenging activity, ABTS radical scavenging activity, iron-reducing antioxidant capacity, and copper reducing antioxidant capacity than the others. Carotenoids in MJ had varying degrees of degradation after mixed fermentation by using all four combinations. Volatile compounds revealed that the co-fermentation of LP + RG produced increased norisoprenoid aroma compounds. The mixed co-inoculation method is a strategy to contemplate for MJ fermentation, but the modalities of inoculation need further investigation. Success depends on the suitable combination of non-Saccharomyces and lactic acid bacteria and consideration of strain variation.
Compressible and Viscous Effects in Transonic Planar Flow around a Circular Cylinder—A Numerical Analysis Based on a Commercially Available CFD Tool
Authors: Hoffmann Jana , Weiss Daniel A.
Published: June 2023

Transonic planar flows around a circular cylinder are investigated numerically for laminar and turbulent flow conditions with Reynolds numbers of 50≤ReD≤300 and 8890≤ReD≤ 80,000 and free stream Mach numbers in the range of 0.2≤Ma∞≤2. A commercially available CFD tool is used and validated for this purpose. The results show that the flow phenomena occurring can be grouped into eight regimes. Compared to the incompressible flow regimes, several new phenomena can be found. In contrast, at higher Ma∞ of 0.6≤Ma∞≤0.8 vortices in the wake of the cylinder are suppressed for ReD=50. In some cases, Ma∞=0.8 and ReD≥300, λ-shocks are formed in the near cylinder wake. For supersonic Ma∞, two different phenomena are observed. Beside the well-known oblique and detached shocks, for 50≤ReD≤300 a wake with instabilities is formed downstream of the cylinder. Furthermore, the temporal mean drag coefficient C¯D, the Strouhal number Str, as well as the critical Mach number Macrit are calculated from the simulation results and are interpreted.
Effects of Co-Modification by Extrusion and Enzymatic Hydrolysis on Physicochemical Properties of Black Wheat Bran and Its Prebiotic Potential
Authors: Kong Chunli , Duan Caiping , Zhang Shunzhi , Liu Rui , Sun Yuanlin , Zhou Sumei
Published: June 2023

Black wheat bran (BWB) is an important source of dietary fiber (DF) and phenolic compounds and has stronger nutritional advantages than ordinary WB. However, the low content of soluble dietary fiber (SDF) negatively influences its physicochemical properties and nutritive functions. To obtain a higher content of SDF in BWB, we evaluated the impact of co-modification by extrusion and enzymes (cellulase, xylanase, high-temperature α-amylase, and acid protease) on water extractable arabinoxylan (WEAX) in BWB. An optimized co-modification method was obtained through single-factor and orthogonal experiments. The prebiotic potential of co-modified BWB was also evaluated using pooled fecal microbiota from young, healthy volunteers. The commonly investigated inulin served as a positive control. After co-modification, WEAX content was dramatically increased from 0.31 g/100 g to 3.03 g/100 g (p < 0.05). The water holding capacity, oil holding capacity, and cholesterol adsorption capacity (pH = 2.0 and pH = 7.0) of BWB were increased by 100%, 71%, 131%, and 133%, respectively (p < 0.05). Scanning electron microscopy demonstrated a looser and more porous microstructure for co-modified BWB granules. Through in vitro anerobic fermentation, co-modified BWB achieved a higher content of Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus than inulin fermentation. In addition, co-modified BWB induced the highest butyric acid production, indicating high potential as prebiotics. The results may contribute to improving technologies for developing high-fiber-content cereal products.