bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Radiosynthesis, Stability, Lipophilicity, and Cellular Uptake Evaluations of [131I]Iodine-α-Mangostin for Breast Cancer Diagnosis and Therapy
Authors: Nurhidayah Wiwit , Widyasari Eva Maria , Daruwati Isti , Mahendra Isa , Subroto Toto , Khairul Ikram Nur Kusaira , Muchtaridi Muchtaridi
Published: May 2023

The high rate of incidence and mortality caused by breast cancer encourage urgent research to immediately develop new diagnostic and therapeutic agents for breast cancer. Alpha mangostin (AM) is a natural compound reported to have anti-breast cancer properties. Its electron-donating groups structure allows it to be labeled with an iodine-131 radioisotope to develop a candidate of a diagnostic and therapeutic agent for breast cancer. This study aims to prepare the [131I]Iodine-α-mangostin ([131I]I-AM) and evaluate its stability, lipophilicity, and cellular uptake in breast cancer cell lines. The [131I]I-AM was prepared by direct radiosynthesis with Chloramine-T method in two conditions (A: AM dissolved in NaOH, B: AM dissolved in ethanol). Reaction time, pH, and mass of the oxidizing agent were optimized as crucial parameters that affected the radiosynthesis reaction. Further analysis was conducted using the radiosynthesis conditions with the highest radiochemical purity (RCP). Stability tests were carried out at three storage conditions, including −20, 2, and 25 °C. A cellular uptake study was performed in T47D (breast cancer cell line) and Vero cells (noncancerous cell line) at various incubation times. The results show that the RCP values of [131I]I-AM under conditions A and B were 90.63 ± 0.44 and 95.17 ± 0.80% (n = 3), respectively. In the stability test, [131I]I-AM has an RCP above 90% after three days of storage at −20 °C. A significant difference was obtained between [131I]I-AM uptake in T47D and Vero cells. Based on these results, [131I]I-AM has been prepared with high RCP, stable at −20 °C, and specifically uptaken by breast cancer cell lines. Biodistribution evaluations in animals are recommended as further research in developing [131I]I-AM as a diagnostic and therapeutic agent for breast cancer.
Low Magnesium Concentration Enforces Bone Calcium Deposition Irrespective of 1,25-Dihydroxyvitamin D3 Concentration
Authors: Rashid Usman , Becker Sandra K. , Sponder Gerhard , Trappe Susanne , Sandhu Mansur A. , Aschenbach Jörg R.
Published: May 2023

Efficient coordination between Mg2+ and vitamin D maintains adequate Ca2+ levels during lactation. This study explored the possible interaction between Mg2+ (0.3, 0.8, and 3 mM) and 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 (1,25D; 0.05 and 5 nM) during osteogenesis using bovine mesenchymal stem cells. After 21 days, differentiated osteocytes were subjected to OsteoImage analysis, alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity measurements, and immunocytochemistry of NT5E, ENG (endoglin), SP7 (osterix), SPP1 (osteopontin), and the BGLAP gene product osteocalcin. The mRNA expression of NT5E, THY1, ENG, SP7, BGLAP, CYP24A1, VDR, SLC41A1, SLC41A2, SLC41A3, TRPM6, TRPM7, and NIPA1 was also assessed. Reducing the Mg2+ concentration in the medium increased the accumulation of mineral hydroxyapatite and ALP activity. There was no change in the immunocytochemical localization of stem cell markers. Expression of CYP24A1 was higher in all groups receiving 5 nM 1,25D. There were tendencies for higher mRNA abundance of THY1, BGLAP, and NIPA1 in cells receiving 0.3 mM Mg2+ and 5 nM 1,25D. In conclusion, low levels of Mg2+ greatly enhanced the deposition of bone hydroxyapatite matrix. The effect of Mg2+ was not modulated by 1,25D, although the expression of certain genes (including BGLAP) tended to be increased by the combination of low Mg2+ and high 1,25D concentrations.
Omics Analysis Unveils the Pathway Involved in the Anthocyanin Biosynthesis in Tomato Seedling and Fruits
Authors: He Rui , Liu Kaizhe , Zhang Shuchang , Ju Jun , Hu Youzhi , Li Yamin , Liu Xiaojuan , Liu Houcheng
Published: May 2023

The purple tomato variety ‘Indigo Rose’ (InR) is favored due to its bright appearance, abundant anthocyanins and outstanding antioxidant capacity. SlHY5 is associated with anthocyanin biosynthesis in ‘Indigo Rose’ plants. However, residual anthocyanins still present in Slhy5 seedlings and fruit peel indicated there was an anthocyanin induction pathway that is independent of HY5 in plants. The molecular mechanism of anthocyanins formation in ‘Indigo Rose’ and Slhy5 mutants is unclear. In this study, we performed omics analysis to clarify the regulatory network underlying anthocyanin biosynthesis in seedling and fruit peel of ‘Indigo Rose’ and Slhy5 mutant. Results showed that the total amount of anthocyanins in both seedling and fruit of InR was significantly higher than those in the Slhy5 mutant, and most genes associated with anthocyanin biosynthesis exhibited higher expression levels in InR, suggesting that SlHY5 play pivotal roles in flavonoid biosynthesis both in tomato seedlings and fruit. Yeast two-hybrid (Y2H) results revealed that SlBBX24 physically interacts with SlAN2-like and SlAN2, while SlWRKY44 could interact with SlAN11 protein. Unexpectedly, both SlPIF1 and SlPIF3 were found to interact with SlBBX24, SlAN1 and SlJAF13 by yeast two-hybrid assay. Suppression of SlBBX24 by virus-induced gene silencing (VIGS) retarded the purple coloration of the fruit peel, indicating an important role of SlBBX24 in the regulation of anthocyanin accumulation. These results deepen the understanding of purple color formation in tomato seedlings and fruits in an HY5-dependent or independent manner via excavating the genes involved in anthocyanin biosynthesis based on omics analysis.
Intent Classification by the Use of Automatically Generated Knowledge Graphs
Authors: Arcan Mihael , Manjunath Sampritha , Robin Cécile , Verma Ghanshyam , Pillai Devishree , Sarkar Simon , Dutta Sourav , Assem Haytham , McCrae John P. , Buitelaar Paul
Published: May 2023

Intent classification is an essential task for goal-oriented dialogue systems for automatically identifying customers’ goals. Although intent classification performs well in general settings, domain-specific user goals can still present a challenge for this task. To address this challenge, we automatically generate knowledge graphs for targeted data sets to capture domain-specific knowledge and leverage embeddings trained on these knowledge graphs for the intent classification task. As existing knowledge graphs might not be suitable for a targeted domain of interest, our automatic generation of knowledge graphs can extract the semantic information of any domain, which can be incorporated within the classification process. We compare our results with state-of-the-art pre-trained sentence embeddings and our evaluation of three data sets shows improvement in the intent classification task in terms of precision.
Interaction of Redox-Active Copper(II) with Catecholamines: A Combined Spectroscopic and Theoretical Study
Authors: Šimunková Miriama , Barbieriková Zuzana , Mazúr Milan , Valko Marian , Alomar Suliman Y. , Alwasel Saleh H. , Malček Michal
Published: May 2023

In this work, attention is focused on the non-essential amino acid L-Tyrosine (TYR) hydroxylated to L-DOPA, which is the precursor to the neurotransmitters dopamine, noradrenaline (norepinephrine; NE) and adrenaline (epinephrine; EP) known as catecholamines and their interactions with redox-active Cu(II). Catecholamines have multiple functions in biological systems, including the regulation of the central nervous system, and free (unbound) redox metal ions are present in many diseases with disturbed metal homeostasis. The interaction between catecholamines and Cu(II) has been studied by means of Electron Paramagnetic Resonance spectroscopy (EPR), EPR spin trapping and UV-vis spectroscopy. The obtained spectroscopic results are supported by Density Functional Theory calculations. Only minor qualitative and quantitative changes in the UV-vis spectra of all the studied compounds have been observed following their interactions with Cu(II) ions. The low-temperature EPR spectra were more convincing and confirmed the interaction between Cu(II) ions and all the studied compounds, involving hydroxyl groups and amino nitrogens. The use of an ABTS assay revealed that the compounds under study possessed radical-scavenging activities against ABTS•+ in the order TYR < EP < DA < NE~L-DOPA. The neurotransmitters DA, NE and EP, following their interaction with Cu(II), exhibit the ability to (partially) reduce Cu(II) to Cu(I) species which was confirmed using the Cu(I) specific chelator neocuproine. EPR spin-trapping experiments revealed the suppressed formation of hydroxyl radicals (•OH) in a copper(II) catalyzed Fenton-like system in the presence of catecholamines. Only in the case of EP was autooxidation in a stock solution observed. Furthermore, the oxidation of EP is enhanced in the presence of Cu(II) ions. In conclusion, it has been confirmed that the oxidation of catecholamines in the presence of copper promotes the redox cycling process, resulting in the formation of ROS, which may, in turn, cause damage to neuronal systems.
Identification and Validation of Reference Genes for Expression Analysis Using RT-qPCR in Leptocybe invasa Fisher and La Salle (Hymenoptera: Eulophidae)
Authors: Liu Ya , Zhou Jing , Qiu Zhisong , Hu Ping , Chen Xiao , Yang Zhende
Published: May 2023

Leptocybe invasa (Hymenoptera: Eulophidae) is a globally intrusive pest. Despite extensive research into the physiological responses of this pest, our understanding of the molecular mechanisms still needs to be improved. We want to accurately investigate the expression of L. invasa’s target genes, so it is imperative to select fitting reference genes. In this study, eight housekeeping genes’ stability (RPS30, ACTR, 18S rRNA, ACT, RPL18, GAPDH, 28S rRNA, and TUB) was tested under five different experimental conditions, including male or female adults, somites (head, thorax, and abdomen), temperatures (0 °C, 25 °C, and 40 °C), diets (starvation, clear water, 10% honey water, Eucalyptus sap), and pesticides (acetone was used as a control, imidacloprid, monosultap). Gene stability was calculated using RefFinder, which integrates four algorithms (the ∆Ct method, geNorm, NormFinder, and BestKeeper). The findings implied that ACT and ACTR were the most accurate when comparing sexes. For analyzing different somites, 28S rRNA and RPL18 were ideal; the 28S rRNA and RRS30 were perfect for analyzing at different temperatures. The combination of ACT and GAPDH helped to analyze gene expression in different diets, and GAPDH and 28S rRNA were suitable for various pesticide conditions. Overall, this research offers a complete list of reference genes from L. invasa for precise analysis of target gene expression, which can improve the trustworthiness of RT-qPCR and lay the foundation for further investigations into the gene function of this pest.
Predicting the Current and Future Distributions of Frankliniella occidentalis (Pergande) Based on the MaxEnt Species Distribution Model
Authors: Wang Zhiling , Xu Danping , Liao Wenkai , Xu Yan , Zhuo Zhihang
Published: May 2023

Climate change has a highly significant impact on the distribution of species. As the greenhouse effect intensifies each year, the distribution of organisms responds to this challenge in diverse ways. Therefore, climatic environmental variables are a key entry point for capturing the current and future distribution trends of pests. Frankliniella occidentalis is an invasive pest attested worldwide. Its damage is mainly divided into two aspects, including mechanical damage caused by its feeding and egg laying and the spread of tomato spotted wilt virus (TSWV). TSWV is the most dominant transmitted virulent disease. Moreover, F. occidentalis is the major vector for the transmission of this virus, which poses a grave threat to the yield and survival of our crops. In this study, the distribution pattern of this pest was explored using 19 bioclimatic variables based on the Maxent model. The results indicated that in the future, high-suitability areas of F. occidentalis will be widely distributed in 19 provinces of China, with Hebei, Henan, Shandong, Tianjin and Yunnan being the most abundant. Among the 19 bioclimatic variables, the five variables of annual mean temperature (Bio 1), temperature seasonality (standard deviation × 100) (Bio 4), min temperature of the coldest month (Bio 6), mean temperature of the driest quarter (Bio 9) and precipitation of the coldest quarter (Bio 19) were selected as the key environmental variables affecting the distribution of F. occidentalis. In summary, temperature and precipitation are vital factors for the study of the species’ distribution, and this study aims to provide new perspectives for the control of this pest in China.
Experimental Study Results Processing Method for the Marine Diesel Engines Vibration Activity Caused by the Cylinder-Piston Group Operations
Authors: Afanaseva Olga , Bezyukov Oleg , Pervukhin Dmitry , Tukeev Dmitry
Published: May 2023

The article discusses the method and results of processing statistical data from an experimental study of vibrations in marine diesel engines caused by the operation of cylinder-piston groups. The results of the application of a ranking method for identifying factors that influence vibration in marine diesel engines are presented to determine the most significant ones. A series of experiments were conducted according to special plans to actively implement the random balance method. This helped to establish the correctness of selecting the most significant factors from a variety of factors that influence the process under study. The article presents a mathematical model that enables the calculation of current values and prediction of changes in the most significant indicators, with the clearance between the piston and the cylinder liner being the most important.
Correlation between Coronary Artery Disease with Other Arterial Systems: Similar, Albeit Separate, Underlying Pathophysiologic Mechanisms
Authors: Achim Alexandru , Péter Orsolya Ágnes , Cocoi Mihai , Serban Adela , Mot Stefan , Dadarlat-Pop Alexandra , Nemes Attila , Ruzsa Zoltan
Published: May 2023

Atherosclerosis is a multifactorial systemic disease that affects the entire arterial tree, although some areas are more prone to lipid deposits than others. Moreover, the histopathological composition of the plaques differs, and the clinical manifestations are also different, depending on the location and structure of the atherosclerotic plaque. Some arterial systems are correlated with each other more than in that they simply share a common atherosclerotic risk. The aim of this perspective review is to discuss this heterogeneity of atherosclerotic impairment in different arterial districts and to investigate the current evidence that resulted from studies of the topographical interrelations of atherosclerosis.
Early Treatment of Unilateral Condylar Hyperplasia in Adolescents: Preliminary Results
Authors: Olate Sergio , Ravelo Victor , Alister Juan Pablo , Netto Henrique Duque , Haidar Ziyad S. , Sacco Roberto
Published: May 2023

Facial asymmetry associated with unilateral condylar hyperplasia (UCH) is a rare disease. The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical conditions of progressive facial asymmetry in young subjects treated with high condylectomy. A retrospective study was performed including nine subjects diagnosed with UCH type 1B and progressive facial asymmetry around 12 years old with an upper canine progressing towards dental occlusion. After an analysis and a decision of treatment, orthodontics began one to two weeks prior to the condylectomy (with a mean vertical reduction of 4.83 ± 0.44 mm). Facial and dental asymmetry, dental occlusion, TMJ status and an open/closing mouth were analyzed before surgery and in the final stage of treatment, almost 3 years after surgery. Statistical analyses were performed using the Shapiro–Wilk test and a Student’s t-test considering a p value of <0.05. Comparing T1 (before surgery) and T2 (once orthodontic treatment was finalized), the operated condyle showed a similar height to that observed in stage 1 with a 0.12 mm difference in height (p = 0.8), whereas the non-operated condyle showed greater height increase with an average of 3.88 mm of vertical growth (p = 0.0001). This indicated that the non-operated condyle remained steady and that the operative condyle did not register significant growth. In terms of facial asymmetry in the preoperative stage, a chin deviation of 7.55 mm (±2.57 mm) was observed; in the final stage, there was a significant reduction in the chin deviation with an average of 1.55 mm (±1.26 mm) (p = 0.0001). Given the small number of patients in the sample, we can conclude that high condylectomy (approx. 5 mm), if performed early, especially in the mixed-dentition stage before full canine eruption, is beneficial for the early resolution of asymmetry and thus the avoidance of future orthognathic surgery. However, further follow-up until the end of facial growth is required.
Immunopathology of Extracellular Vesicles in Macrophage and Glioma Cross-Talk
Authors: Kopper Timothy , Yu Xiaoli , Graner Michael
Published: May 2023

Glioblastomas (GBM) are a devastating disease with extremely poor clinical outcomes. Resident (microglia) and infiltrating macrophages are a substantial component of the tumor environment. In GBM and other cancers, tumor-derived extracellular vesicles (EVs) suppress macrophage inflammatory responses, impairing their ability to identify and phagocytose cancerous tissues. Furthermore, these macrophages then begin to produce EVs that support tumor growth and migration. This cross-talk between macrophages/microglia and gliomas is a significant contributor to GBM pathophysiology. Here, we review the mechanisms through which GBM-derived EVs impair macrophage function, how subsequent macrophage-derived EVs support tumor growth, and the current therapeutic approaches to target GBM/macrophage EV crosstalk.
Rate of Postoperative Urinary Retention after Anterior Compartment Prolapse Surgery: A Randomized Controlled Trial Comparing Early versus Conventional Transurethral Catheter Removal
Authors: Chansriniyom Nareenun , Saraluck Apisith , Kijmanawat Athasit , Wattanayingcharoenchai Rujira , Aimjirakul Komkrit , Manonai Bartlett Jittima , Chinthakanan Orawee
Published: May 2023

Background: Pelvic organ prolapse is a common condition of pelvic floor dysfunction in women, especially in adult vaginally parous and elderly women. Because of its anatomy, the anterior compartment has a significant effect on urinary symptoms. Anterior colporrhaphy and colpocleisis are major anterior compartment prolapse-related surgeries. As we know, postoperative urinary retention (POUR) is one of the most common complications following pelvic floor surgery. To prevent this complication, indwelling bladder catheterization is routinely applied. In contrast, to minimize risk of infection and the patient’s discomfort, the catheter should be removed as soon as possible. However, there is a lack of clarity regarding the optimal timing for catheter removal. Therefore, the aim of this trial is to compare the rate of POUR after anterior prolapse surgery between early transurethral catheter removal (24 h postoperatively) and our standard practice (on postoperative day 3). Methods: We conducted a randomized controlled trial among patients undergoing anterior compartment prolapse surgery between 2020 and 2021 at a university hospital. Women were randomized into two groups. After removal, if the second void residual urine volume exceeded 150 mL, POUR was diagnosed, and intermittent catheterization was performed. The primary outcome was the POUR rate. The secondary outcomes included urinary tract infection, asymptomatic bacteriuria, time to ambulation, time to spontaneous voiding, length of hospitalization, and patient satisfaction. Analysis was performed according to the intention to treat principle. The calculated sample size was 68 patients (34 patients in each group) for a 95% confidence interval, 80% power, 5% probability of type I error, and 10% data loss. Discussion: This study demonstrated that early catheter removal was comparable in POUR rate to conventional treatment with shorter hospitalization among patients undergoing anterior compartment prolapse surgery. Additionally, we observed no re-hospitalization owing to POUR. Therefore, early transurethral catheter removal is preferable following anterior compartment prolapse-related surgery.
Isokinetic Dynamometer Leg Extensor Peak Torque Measurement: A Time-Delayed Reliability and Score Selection Analysis Study
Authors: Thompson Brennan J. , Xu Jennifer
Published: May 2023

The reliability of isokinetic peak torque (PT) has been reported mostly using a short-term (<~10 day) inter-trial testing time frame. However, many studies and programs utilize a long-term (several weeks to months) inter-trial testing period. Additionally, the methods by which the PT value is selected and reported from a multiple rep testing scheme have not been well investigated for both reliability and PT absolute performance comparisons. The purpose of this study was to investigate the long-term reliability of isokinetic and isometric PT of the leg extensors with an emphasis on the differences among several PT score selection methods. Thirteen men and women (age = 19.5 years) underwent two testing trials separated by 28.8 (±1.8) days. Testing included maximal voluntary contractions of three sets of three reps for two isokinetic contraction conditions of 60 (Isok60) and 240 (Isok240) deg/s velocities, and three sets of one rep of isometric contractions for the leg extensors. The PT score was derived from seven different methods (see text for descriptions). Reliability as assessed from intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) varied widely across contraction conditions and PT score selection parameters. The Isok60 velocity overall had lower reliability (ICCs = 0.48–0.81) than Isok240 (0.77–0.87) across the conditions whereas the isometric PT variables showed moderate reliability (0.71–0.73). Overall the set 1 PT score selection parameters were generally lower (p ≤ 0.05) than those that involved sets two and three. Systematic error (p ≤ 0.05) was shown for 6 out of the 17 PT selection variables. On a subjective interpretation basis, when taking everything into account the best overall combination of time/trial efficiency, reliability, best/highest PT score parameter, and reduced risk of systematic bias appears to be the PT variable that uses the average of the highest two reps of the first two sets of three reps—i.e., averaging the highest two values of the six total reps from the first two sets.
A 0.15-to-0.5 V Body-Driven Dynamic Comparator with Rail-to-Rail ICMR
Authors: Della Sala Riccardo , Spinogatti Valerio , Bocciarelli Cristian , Centurelli Francesco , Trifiletti Alessandro
Published: May 2023

In this paper, a novel dynamic body-driven ultra-low voltage (ULV) comparator is presented. The proposed topology takes advantage of the back-gate configuration by driving the input transistors’ gates with a clocked positive feedback loop made of two AND gates. This allows for the removal of the clocked tail generator, which decreases the number of stacked transistors and improves performance at low VDD. Furthermore, the clocked feedback loop causes the comparator to behave as a full CMOS latch during the regeneration phase, which means no static power consumption occurs after the outputs have settled. Thanks to body driving, the proposed comparator also achieves rail-to-rail input common mode range (ICMR), which is a critical feature for circuits that operate at low and ultra-low voltage headrooms. The comparator was designed and optimized in a 130-nm technology from STMicroelectronics at VDD=0.3 V and is able to operate at up to 2 MHz with an input differential voltage of 1 mV. The simulations show that the comparator remains fully operational even when the supply voltage is scaled down to 0.15 V, in which case the circuit exhibits a maximum operating frequency of 80 kHz at Vid=1 mV.
Taxonomy and Phylogeny of Hyphomycetous Muriform Conidial Taxa from the Tibetan Plateau, China
Authors: Xu Rong-Ju , Zhu Ying-An , Liu Ning-Guo , Boonmee Saranyaphat , Zhou De-Qun , Zhao Qi
Published: May 2023

During the investigation of lignicolous freshwater fungi in the Tibetan Plateau habitat, fifteen collections were isolated from submerged decaying wood. Fungal characteristics are commonly found as punctiform or powdery colonies with dark pigmented and muriform conidia. Multigene phylogenetic analyses of combined ITS, LSU, SSU and TEF DNA sequences showed that they belong to three families in Pleosporales. Among them, Paramonodictys dispersa, Pleopunctum megalosporum, Pl. multicellularum and Pl. rotundatum are established as new species. Paradictyoarthrinium hydei, Pleopunctum ellipsoideum and Pl. pseudoellipsoideum are reported as new records on the freshwater habitats in Tibetan Plateau, China. The morphological descriptions and illustrations of the new collections are provided.
Coccidioidal Pulmonary Cavitation: A New Age
Authors: Kooner Lovedip , Munoz Augustine , Garcia Austin , Kaur Akriti , Sharma Rupam , Bustamante Virginia , Narang Vishal , Thompson George R. , Kuran Rasha , Berjis Amir , Johnson Royce H. , Heidari Arash
Published: May 2023

Coccidioides species are thermally dimorphic fungi found in geographically defined areas of the Western Hemisphere. The primary portal of entry is respiratory, with symptomatic pneumonic diseases as the most common presentation. Subsequent pulmonary complications as well as extrapulmonary metastatic infection may occur, either of which may be the presenting disease manifestation. Cavitary lung disease may be found incidentally or when investigating symptoms such as cough or hemoptysis. This study aims to explore the spectrum of coccidioidal cavities and the evaluation and management in a cohort of patients seen at Kern Medical over the last 12 years.
Extracellular Vesicles from Candida haemulonii var. vulnera Modulate Macrophage Oxidative Burst
Authors: Oliveira Bianca T. M. , Dourado Thales M. H. , Santos Patrick W. S. , Bitencourt Tamires A. , Tirapelli Carlos R. , Colombo Arnaldo L. , Almeida Fausto
Published: May 2023

Members of the Candida haemulonii species complex are multidrug-resistant emergent yeast pathogens able to cause superficial and invasive infections in risk populations. Fungal extracellular vesicles (EVs) play a critical role in the pathogenicity and virulence of several species and may perform essential functions during infections, such as carrying virulence factors that behave in two-way communications with the host, affecting survival and fungal resistance. Our study aimed to describe EV production from Candida haemulonii var. vulnera and evaluate whether murine macrophage RAW 264.7 cells respond to their stimuli by generating an oxidative response after 24 h. For this purpose, reactive oxygen species detection assays demonstrated that high concentrations of yeast and EVs (1010 particles/mL) of Candida haemulonii did not change macrophage viability. However, the macrophages recognized these EVs and triggered an oxidative response through the classical NOX-2 pathway, increasing O2•− and H2O2 levels. However, this stress did not cause lipid peroxidation in the RAW 264.7 cells and neither lead to the activation of the COX-2–PGE2 pathway. Thus, our data suggest that low concentrations of C. haemulonii EVs are not recognized by the classical pathway of the oxidative burst generated by macrophages, which might be an advantage allowing the transport of virulence factors via EVs, not identified by the host immune system that could work as fine tube regulators during infections caused by C. haemulonii. In contrast, C. haemulonii var. vulnera and high EV concentrations activated microbicidal actions in macrophages. Therefore, we propose that EVs could participate in the virulence of the species and that these particles could be a source of antigens to be exploited as new therapeutic targets.
Fungal Drug Response and Antimicrobial Resistance
Authors: Osset-Trénor Paloma , Pascual-Ahuir Amparo , Proft Markus
Published: May 2023

Antifungal resistance is a growing concern as it poses a significant threat to public health. Fungal infections are a significant cause of morbidity and mortality, especially in immunocompromised individuals. The limited number of antifungal agents and the emergence of resistance have led to a critical need to understand the mechanisms of antifungal drug resistance. This review provides an overview of the importance of antifungal resistance, the classes of antifungal agents, and their mode of action. It highlights the molecular mechanisms of antifungal drug resistance, including alterations in drug modification, activation, and availability. In addition, the review discusses the response to drugs via the regulation of multidrug efflux systems and antifungal drug–target interactions. We emphasize the importance of understanding the molecular mechanisms of antifungal drug resistance to develop effective strategies to combat the emergence of resistance and highlight the need for continued research to identify new targets for antifungal drug development and explore alternative therapeutic options to overcome resistance. Overall, an understanding of antifungal drug resistance and its mechanisms will be indispensable for the field of antifungal drug development and clinical management of fungal infections.
Long-Term Evaluation of Pseudoexfoliation Syndrome Post-Cataract Extraction
Authors: Shouchane-Blum Karny , Zahavi Alon , Geffen Noa , Nahum Yoav , Livny Eitan , Rosenblatt Irit , Sella Ruti , Bahar Irit , Sternfeld Amir , Gaton Dan
Published: May 2023

The study aimed to examine the effect of cataract extraction on ophthalmologists’ ability to detect pseudoexfoliation (PXF) syndrome. A total of 31 patients admitted for elective cataract surgery were enrolled in this prospective comparative study. Prior to surgery, patients underwent slit-lamp examination and gonioscopy conducted by experienced glaucoma specialists. Subsequently, patients were re-examined by a different glaucoma specialist and comprehensive ophthalmologists. Pre-operatively, 12 patients were diagnosed with PXF on the basis of a Sampaolesi line (100%), anterior capsular deposits (83%), and pupillary ruff deposits (50%). The remaining 19 patients acted as controls. All patients were re-examined 10–46 months post-operatively. Of the 12 patients with PXF, 10 (83%) were correctly diagnosed post-operatively by glaucoma specialists and 8 (66%) by comprehensive ophthalmologists. There was no statistically significant difference in PXF diagnosis. However, detection of anterior capsular deposits (p = 0.02), Sampaolesi lines (p = 0.04), and pupillary ruff deposits (p = 0.01) were significantly lower post-operatively. Diagnosis of PXF is challenging in pseudophakic patients as the anterior capsule is removed during cataract extraction. Therefore, PXF diagnosis in pseudophakic patients relies mainly on the presence of deposits at other anatomical sites, and careful attention to these signs is required. Glaucoma specialists may be more likely than comprehensive ophthalmologists to detect PXF in pseudophakic patients.
The Efficiency of Weekly Option Prices around Earnings Announcements
Authors: Milian Jonathan A.
Published: May 2023

This study examines the efficiency of weekly option prices around firms’ earnings announcements. With most of the largest firms now having options that expire on a weekly basis, option traders can hedge or speculate on earnings news using options that expire very close to a firm’s earnings announcement date. For earnings announcements near an options expiration date, one can estimate a firm’s expected stock price move in response to its earnings news (i.e., its option implied earnings announcement move) as the price of its at-the-money straddle as a proportion of its stock price. This study tests whether differences between historical earnings announcement moves and option implied earnings announcement moves predict straddle returns. Through the analysis of portfolio returns and Fama–MacBeth regressions, this study finds that straddle returns are significantly higher (lower) when the historical earnings announcement move is high (low) relative to the option implied earnings announcement move. In contrast to prior research, this study does not find an association between straddle returns and historical volatility, historical earnings announcement volatility, implied volatility, or the difference between historical volatility and implied volatility. Overall, this study suggests that weekly straddle prices around earnings announcements are not optimally efficient.
Current Treatment Approaches for Thymic Epithelial Tumors
Authors: Tartarone Alfredo , Lerose Rosa , Lettini Alessandro Rocco , Tartarone Marina
Published: May 2023

Thymic epithelial tumors (TETs), including thymoma, thymic carcinoma and neuroendocrine tumors, are uncommon tumors that originate from the epithelial cells of the thymus. Nevertheless, despite their rarity, they represent the most common tumor type located in the anterior mediastinum. Therapeutic choices based on staging and histology may include surgery with or without neoadjuvant or adjuvant therapy represented by chemotherapy, radiotherapy or chemo-radiotherapy. For patients with advanced or metastatic TETs, platinum-based chemotherapy remains the standard first-line treatment; however, some new drugs and combinations are currently under evaluation. In any case, proper management of patients with TETs requires a multidisciplinary team approach to personalize care for each patient.
Effect of Al2O3 (x = 0, 1, 2, and 3 vol.%) in CrFeCuMnNi-x High-Entropy Alloy Matrix Composites on Their Microstructure and Mechanical and Wear Performance
Authors: Sivasankaran S. , Ammar Hany R. , Sherif El-Sayed M. , Alaboodi Abdulaziz S. , Mekky Abdel-baset H.
Published: May 2023

This work aims to study the influence of Al2O3 in CrFeCuMnNi high-entropy alloy matrix composites (HEMCs) on their microstructure, phase changes, and mechanical and wear performances. CrFeCuMnNi-Al2O3 HEMCs were synthesized via mechanical alloying (MA) followed by hot compaction (550 °C at 550 MPa), medium frequency sintering (1200 °C), and hot forging (1000 °C at 50 MPa). The XRD results demonstrate the formation of both FCC and BCC phases in the synthesized powders, which were transformed into major stable FCC and minor ordered B2-BCC phases, as confirmed by HRSEM. The microstructural variation of HRSEM-EBSD, in terms of the coloured grain map (inverse pole figures), grain size distribution, and misorientation angle, was analysed and reported. The grain size of the matrix decreased with the increase in Al2O3 particles owing to the higher structural refinement by MA and zener pinning of the incorporated Al2O3 particles. The hot-forged CrFeCuMnNi-3 vol.% Al2O3 sample exhibited an ultimate compressive strength of 1.058 GPa, which was 21% higher than that of the unreinforced HEA matrix. Both the mechanical and wear performance of the bulk samples increased with an increase in Al2O3 content due to solid solution formation, high configurational mixing entropy, structural refinement, and the effective dispersion of the incorporated Al2O3 particles. The wear rate and coefficient of friction values decreased with the increase in Al2O3 content, indicating an improvement in wear resistance owing to the lower domination of abrasive and adhesive mechanisms, as evidenced by the SEM worn surface morphology.
Feldspar-Modified Methacrylic Composite for Fabrication of Prosthetic Teeth
Authors: Raszewski Zbigniew , Kulbacka Julita , Pakuła Daria , Brząkalski Dariusz , Przekop Robert E.
Published: May 2023

This study was aimed at investigating poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA), modified with a silanized feldspar filler at 10 wt.% and 30 wt.%, as a dental material system for the production of prosthetic teeth. Samples of this composite were subjected to a compressive strength test, three-layer methacrylic teeth were fabricated with the said materials, and their connection to a denture plate was examined. The biocompatibility of the materials was assessed via cytotoxicity tests on human gingival fibroblasts (HGFs) and Chinese hamster ovarian cells (CHO-K1). The addition of feldspar significantly improved the material’s compressive strength, with neat PMMA reaching 107 MPa, and the addition of 30% feldspar raising it up to 159 MPa. As observed, composite teeth (cervical part made of neat PMMA, dentin with 10 wt.%, and enamel with 30 wt.% of feldspar) had good adhesion to the denture plate. Neither of the tested materials revealed any cytotoxic effects. In the case of hamster fibroblasts, increased cell viability was observed, with only morphological changes being noticed. Samples containing 10% or 30% of inorganic filler were determined to be safe for treated cells. The use of silanized feldspar to fabricate composite teeth increased their hardness, which is of significant clinical importance for the duration of use of non-retained dentures.
Research of the Ball Burnishing Impact over Cold-Rolled Sheets of AISI 304 Steel Fatigue Life Considering Their Anisotropy
Authors: Slavov Stoyan , Dimitrov Diyan , Konsulova-Bakalova Mariya , Van Lyubomir Si Bao
Published: May 2023

The present work focusses on the research of the plastic deformation accumulated effect obtained after two different plastic deformation treatments, over the fatigue life of AISI 304 austenitic stainless steel. The research is focused on ball burnishing as a finishing process to form specific, so-called “regular micro-reliefs” (RMRs) on a pre-rolled stainless-steel sheet. RMRs are formed using a CNC (Computerized Numerically Controlled) milling machine and toolpaths with the shortest unfolded length, generated by an improved algorithm, based on the Euclidean Distance calculation. The effect of the predominant tool trajectory direction during the ball burnishing process (which can be coinciding or transverse with the rolling direction), the magnitude of applied deforming force, and feed-rate is subjected to evaluation using Bayesian rule analyses of experimentally obtained results for the fatigue life of AISI 304 steel. The obtained results give us reason to conclude that the fatigue life of researched steel is increased when directions of pre-rolled plastic deformation and the tool movement during ball burnishing are coincident. It also been found that the magnitude of deforming force has a stronger impact over the fatigue life, than the feed-rate of the ball tool.
An Anthracene-Based Bis-Stilbene Derivative as Luminescent Materials for Organic Light Emitting Diodes
Authors: Wang Hui , Wu Houlin , Bian Guangling , Song Ling
Published: May 2023

In this work, a new luminescent material of a small-molecule stilbene derivative (BABCz) containing anthracene was designed and synthesized by three simple reactions. The material was characterized by 1H-NMR, FTMS, and X-ray and tested using TGA, DSC, UV/Vis, fluorescence spectroscopy, and atomic force microscopy. The results demonstrate that BABCz has luminescence properties with good thermal stability and can be doped with 4,4′-bis(N-carbazolyl)-1,1′-biphenyl (CBP) to prepare highly uniform films, which allows the fabrication of OLED devices with ITO/Cs2CO3:BABCz/CBP:BABCz/MoO3/Al configuration. This simplest device in the sandwich structure emits green light at 6.6–12 V and has a brightness of 2300 cd/m2, indicating the potential of this material in OLED manufacturing.
The Influence of a Novel, Crenelated Design of CAD-CAM Ceramic Veneers on the Debonding Strength
Authors: Măroiu Alexandra-Cristina , Jivănescu Anca , Șerban Dan-Andrei , Negru Radu-Marcel , Duma Virgil-Florin , Sinescu Cosmin , Romînu Mihai
Published: May 2023

(1) Background: Aesthetic dentistry has become one of the most dynamic fields in modern dental medicine. Ceramic veneers represent the most appropriate prosthetic restorations for smile enhancement, due to their minimal invasiveness and highly natural appearance. For long-term clinical success, accurate design of both tooth preparation and ceramic veneers is of paramount importance. The aims of this in vitro study were to assess the stress in anterior teeth restored with Computer-Aided Design (CAD) and Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAM) ceramic veneers and compare the resistance to detachment and the fracture of ceramic veneers prepared using two different designs. (2) Methods: Sixteen lithium disilicate ceramic veneers were designed and milled using the CAD-CAM technology and divided into two groups according to the preparations (n = 8): Group 1, conventional (CO), with linear marginal contour and Group 2, crenelated (CR), the latter with our novel (patented) sinusoidal marginal design. All samples were bonded to anterior natural teeth. The mechanical resistance to detachment and fracture was investigated by applying bending forces on the incisal margin of the veneers in order to determine which type of preparation leads to better adhesion. An analytic method was employed, as well, and the results of the two approaches were compared. (3) Results: The mean values of the maximum force recorded at the veneer detachment were 78.82 ± 16.55 N for the CO group and 90.20 ± 29.81 N for the CR group. The relative increase, equal to 14.43%, demonstrated that the novel CR tooth preparation provided higher adhesive joints. In order to determine the stress distribution within the adhesive layer, a finite element analysis (FEA) was performed. The statistical t-test showed that the mean value of the maximum normal stresses is higher for the CR-type preparations. (4) Conclusions: The patented CR veneers represent a practical solution to augment the adhesion and mechanical properties of ceramic veneers. The obtained results demonstrated that CR adhesive joints triggered higher mechanical and adhesive forces, which subsequently led to a higher resistance to detachment and fracture.
Composition and Structure of NiCoFeCr and NiCoFeCrMn High-Entropy Alloys Irradiated by Helium Ions
Authors: Amanzhulov Bauyrzhan , Ivanov Igor , Uglov Vladimir , Zlotski Sergey , Ryskulov Azamat , Kurakhmedov Alisher , Koloberdin Mikhail , Zdorovets Maxim
Published: May 2023

High-entropy alloys (HEAs) have prospects for use as nuclear structural materials. Helium irradiation can form bubbles deteriorating the structure of structural materials. The structure and composition of NiCoFeCr and NiCoFeCrMn HEAs formed by arc melting and irradiated with low-energy 40 keV He2+ ions and a fluence of 2 × 1017 cm−2 have been studied. Helium irradiation of two HEAs does not change the elemental and phase composition, and does not erode the surface. Irradiation of NiCoFeCr and NiCoFeCrMn with a fluence of 5 × 1016 cm−2 forms compressive stresses (−90 … −160 MPa) and the stresses grow over −650 MPa as fluence increases to 2 × 1017 cm−2. Compressive microstresses grow up to 2.7 GPa at a fluence of 5 × 1016 cm−2, and up to 6.8 GPa at 2 × 1017 cm−2. The dislocation density rises by a factor of 5–12 for a fluence of 5 × 1016 cm−2, and by 30–60 for a fluence of 2 × 1017 cm−2. Stresses and dislocation density in the HEAs change the most in the region of the maximal damage dose. NiCoFeCrMn has higher macro- and microstresses, dislocation density, and a larger increase in their values, with an increasing helium ion fluence compared to NiCoFeCr. NiCoFeCrMn a showed higher radiation resistance compared to NiCoFeCr.
Investigation on the Influence of Fiber Bundle Undulating Architecture on Tensile Behavior of Filament Wound Composite Laminates
Authors: Liu Hao , Hu Haixiao , Cao Dongfeng , Ji Yundong , Wang Xiangjiang , Chen Hongda , Li Shuxin
Published: May 2023

In filament wound composites, fiber bundles cross each other and form an undulating architecture, which may significantly affect the mechanical behavior of composites. In this study, the tensile mechanical behavior of filament wound laminates was studied experimentally and numerically, and the influences of the bundle thickness and winding angle on the mechanical behavior of the filament wound plates were also explored. In the experiments, tensile tests were carried out on filament wound plates and laminated plates. It was found that, compared to laminated plates, filament wound plates had lower stiffness, greater failure displacement, similar failure loads, and more obvious strain concentration areas. In numerical analysis, mesoscale finite element models, which take into account the fiber bundles’ undulating morphology, were created. The numerical predictions correlated well with the experimental ones. Further numerical studies have shown that the stiffness reduction coefficient of filament wound plates with a winding angle of ±55° decreased from 0.78 to 0.74 as the bundle thickness increased from 0.4 mm to 0.8 mm. The stiffness reduction coefficients of filament wound plates with wound angles of ±15°, ±25°, and ±45° were 0.86, 0.83, and 0.8, respectively.
Advances in Two-Dimensional Magnetic Semiconductors via Substitutional Doping of Transition Metal Dichalcogenides
Authors: Fang Mengqi , Yang Eui-Hyeok
Published: May 2023

Transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs) are two-dimensional (2D) materials with remarkable electrical, optical, and chemical properties. One promising strategy to tailor the properties of TMDs is to create alloys through a dopant-induced modification. Dopants can introduce additional states within the bandgap of TMDs, leading to changes in their optical, electronic, and magnetic properties. This paper overviews chemical vapor deposition (CVD) methods to introduce dopants into TMD monolayers, and discusses the advantages, limitations, and their impacts on the structural, electrical, optical, and magnetic properties of substitutionally doped TMDs. The dopants in TMDs modify the density and type of carriers in the material, thereby influencing the optical properties of the materials. The magnetic moment and circular dichroism in magnetic TMDs are also strongly affected by doping, which enhances the magnetic signal in the material. Finally, we highlight the different doping-induced magnetic properties of TMDs, including superexchange-induced ferromagnetism and valley Zeeman shift. Overall, this review paper provides a comprehensive summary of magnetic TMDs synthesized via CVD, which can guide future research on doped TMDs for various applications, such as spintronics, optoelectronics, and magnetic memory devices.
Transformation Pathways of Ferromagnetic Mn-Al-Ga-Ni
Authors: Palmer Shane , Martin John , Lindquist Paul , Müllner Peter
Published: May 2023

This study investigates the impact of alloying Mn-Al-Ga with 3 at.-% Ni and the stability and formation mechanisms of the τ phase and the resulting magnetic properties. The stabilizing effect of Ga on the τ phase was verified, and the ternary alloy’s magnetization was measured up to M2T=482kA/m−1. The phase transformation from γ2 to τ in ternary Mn-Al-Ga was demonstrated microscopically. The solubility limit of Ni into the τ phase was exceeded at 3 at.-% and a primitive cubic κ phase formed. The Ni addition stabilized the τ phase. The highest magnetization at 2 T for the Mn52Al39.4Ga5.6Ni3 alloy was M2T=416kA/m−1
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A new transformation pathway was demonstrated by first annealing the Mn-Al-Ga-Ni alloy at 800 °C for 24 h, which forms a nearly single κ phase, which is followed by a second anneal at 500 °C for 24 h at which the phase τ formed with some remaining κ phase. This is a new transformation mechanism since it involves a phase reaction from κ to τ. The energy product of the Mn-Al-Ga-Ni alloy exceeded that of the ternary Mn-Al-Ga alloy by a factor of 4.5. The κ-phase particles in the Mn-Al-Ga-Ni alloy hinder magnetic domain boundary motion, thus providing a method for magnetic hardening and increasing the energy product.