bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Risk of Microbial Growth in Ventilation Ductwork Located in the Humid and Cold Conditions
Authors: Kravchenko Ilia , Pasanen Pertti , Lestinen Sami , Kilpeläinen Simo , Kosonen Risto
Published: June 2023

High humidity inside ductworks could be a potential risk for microbial growth and there is also a hypothesis that lower night-time ventilation increases the risk of growth. This study investigates the possibility of microbial growth in ventilation ductwork exposed to humid and cold conditions. Two different typical night-time ventilation strategies for public buildings were investigated: ventilation rate was either continuously the same (0.15 L/s, m2) or no airflow during the night-time. Experimental data were collected over a four-month period. In the experiment, microbial media was released inside the ductwork initially. During the test period, air temperature and relative humidity inside the ductwork were controlled between 11–14 °C and 70–90%. Wipe, swab and air samples were taken at the beginning, monthly and at the end of the test period. The study results showed the extinction of colonies by the end of the experiment regardless of the chosen night-time ventilation strategy. The colony count in the air was low throughout the study period. Therefore, the results indicate that the long-term growth on the walls of air ducts is unlikely and the risk of microbial transfer from the air ductworks to room space is low.
Effects of Jute Fiber on Fresh and Hardened Characteristics of Concrete with Environmental Assessment
Authors: Khan Muhammad Basit , Shafiq Nasir , Waqar Ahsan , Radu Dorin , Cismaș Ciprian , Imran Muhammad , Almujibah Hamad , Benjeddou Omrane
Published: June 2023

Concrete is a widely utilized construction material globally; however, it is characterized by a fundamental deficiency in its tensile strength when it is not reinforced. The incorporation of diverse novel materials into concrete is being pursued with the aim of mitigating its limitations while concurrently enhancing its reliability and sustainability. Furthermore, it is noteworthy that concrete embodies a significant quantity of carbon. The primary cause of this phenomenon can be attributed to the utilization of cement as the principal binding component in concrete. Recent advancements in research have indicated that jute fiber, commonly referred to as JF, exhibits considerable potential as a novel material for enhancing the mechanical robustness of concrete. Although there is a significant body of literature on the application of jute fiber in concrete, there has been a dearth of research on the capacity of jute fiber (JF) to improve the mechanical strength of concrete and mitigate its carbon emissions. This study aims to cover a gap in the existing literature by analyzing and enhancing the application of JF in relation to its mechanical properties and environmental impact. The study involved conducting experiments wherein JF was added at varying weight percentages, specifically at 0%, 0.10%, 0.25%, 0.50%, and 0.75%. The investigation encompassed a number of examinations of both the fresh and hardened states of concrete, in addition to assessments of its durability. The fresh concrete tests included the slump test, while the hardened concrete tests involved measuring compressive strength (CS), split tensile strength (STS), and flexural strength (FS). Additionally, the durability tests focused on water absorption (WA). The study involved the computation of embodied carbon (EC) ratios for various mix combinations. The findings suggest that incorporating JF into concrete results in a decrease in environmental impact relative to alternative fiber types, as demonstrated by a rise in eco-strength efficiency (ESE). Based on the findings of the conducted tests, an optimal proportion of 0.10% JF has been determined to be conducive to enhancing the CS, STS, and FS by 6.77%, 6.91%, and 9.63%, respectively. The aforementioned deduction can be inferred from the results of the examinations. Using data obtained from extensive experimentation, the RSM (Response Surface Methodology) was used to construct a model. The model was optimized, resulting in the establishment of definitive equations that can be used to evaluate the effects of incorporating JF into concrete. Potential benefits have been identified for the advancement of concrete in the future through the utilization of JF.
Development of Symbolic Expressions Ensemble for Breast Cancer Type Classification Using Genetic Programming Symbolic Classifier and Decision Tree Classifier
Authors: Anđelić Nikola , Baressi Šegota Sandi
Published: June 2023

Breast cancer is a type of cancer with several sub-types. It occurs when cells in breast tissue grow out of control. The accurate sub-type classification of a patient diagnosed with breast cancer is mandatory for the application of proper treatment. Breast cancer classification based on gene expression is challenging even for artificial intelligence (AI) due to the large number of gene expressions. The idea in this paper is to utilize the genetic programming symbolic classifier (GPSC) on the publicly available dataset to obtain a set of symbolic expressions (SEs) that can classify the breast cancer sub-type using gene expressions with high classification accuracy. The initial problem with the used dataset is a large number of input variables (54,676 gene expressions), a small number of dataset samples (151 samples), and six classes of breast cancer sub-types that are highly imbalanced. The large number of input variables is solved with principal component analysis (PCA), while the small number of samples and the large imbalance between class samples are solved with the application of different oversampling methods generating different dataset variations. On each oversampled dataset, the GPSC with random hyperparameter values search (RHVS) method is trained using 5-fold cross validation (5CV) to obtain a set of SEs. The best set of SEs is chosen based on mean values of accuracy (ACC), the area under the receiving operating characteristic curve (AUC), precision, recall, and F1-score values. In this case, the highest classification accuracy is equal to 0.992 across all evaluation metric methods. The best set of SEs is additionally combined with a decision tree classifier, which slightly improves ACC to 0.994.
Externally Applied Electromagnetic Fields and Hyperthermia Irreversibly Damage Cancer Cells
Authors: Obrador Elena , Jihad-Jebbar Ali , Salvador-Palmer Rosario , López-Blanch Rafael , Oriol-Caballo María , Moreno-Murciano María Paz , Navarro Enrique A. , Cibrian Rosa , Estrela José M.
Published: June 2023

At present, the applications and efficacy of non-ionizing radiations (NIR) in oncotherapy are limited. In terms of potential combinations, the use of biocompatible magnetic nanoparticles as heat mediators has been extensively investigated. Nevertheless, developing more efficient heat nanomediators that may exhibit high specific absorption rates is still an unsolved problem. Our aim was to investigate if externally applied magnetic fields and a heat-inducing NIR affect tumor cell viability. To this end, under in vitro conditions, different human cancer cells (A2058 melanoma, AsPC1 pancreas carcinoma, MDA-MB-231 breast carcinoma) were treated with the combination of electromagnetic fields (EMFs, using solenoids) and hyperthermia (HT, using a thermostated bath). The effect of NIR was also studied in combination with standard chemotherapy and targeted therapy. An experimental device combining EMFs and high-intensity focused ultrasounds (HIFU)-induced HT was tested in vivo. EMFs (25 µT, 4 h) or HT (52 °C, 40 min) showed a limited effect on cancer cell viability in vitro. However, their combination decreased viability to approximately 16%, 50%, and 21% of control values in A2058, AsPC1, and MDA-MB-231 cells, respectively. Increased lysosomal permeability, release of cathepsins into the cytosol, and mitochondria-dependent activation of cell death are the underlying mechanisms. Cancer cells could be completely eliminated by combining EMFs, HT, and standard chemotherapy or EMFs, HT, and anti-Hsp70-targeted therapy. As a proof of concept, in vivo experiments performed in AsPC1 xenografts showed that a combination of EMFs, HIFU-induced HT, standard chemotherapy, and a lysosomal permeabilizer induces a complete cancer regression.
A Review of Herbal Resources Inducing Anti-Liver Metastasis Effects in Gastrointestinal Tumors via Modulation of Tumor Microenvironments in Animal Models
Authors: Kim Sul-Ki , Lee Nam-Hun , Son Chang-Gue
Published: June 2023

Liver metastases remain a major obstacle for the management of all types of tumors arising from digestive organs, and the tumor microenvironment has been regarded as an important factor in metastasis. To discover herbal candidates inhibiting the liver metastasis of tumors originating from the digestive system via the modulation of the tumor microenvironment and liver environment, we searched three representative public databases and conducted a systematic review. A total of 21 studies that employed experimental models for pancreatic (9), colon (8), and stomach cancers (4) were selected. The herbal agents included single-herb extracts (5), single compounds (12), and multiherbal decoctions (4). Curcuma longa Linn was most frequently studied for its anti-colon–liver metastatic effects, and its possible mechanisms involved the modulation of tumor microenvironment components such as vascular endothelial cells and immunity in both tumor tissues and circulating cells. The list of herbal agents and their mechanisms produced in this study is helpful for the development of anti-liver metastasis drugs in the future.
Overview of the Genetic Causes of Hereditary Breast and Ovarian Cancer Syndrome in a Large French Patient Cohort
Authors: Bouras Ahmed , Guidara Souhir , Leone Mélanie , Buisson Adrien , Martin-Denavit Tanguy , Dussart Sophie , Lasset Christine , Giraud Sophie , Bonnet-Dupeyron Marie-Noëlle , Kherraf Zine-Eddine , Sanlaville Damien , Fert-Ferrer Sandra , Lebrun Marine , Bonadona Valerie , Calender Alain , Boutry-Kryza Nadia
Published: June 2023

The use of multigene panel testing for patients with a predisposition to Hereditary Breast and Ovarian Cancer syndrome (HBOC) is increasing as the identification of mutations is useful for diagnosis and disease management. Here, we conducted a retrospective analysis of BRCA1/2 and non-BRCA gene sequencing in 4630 French HBOC suspected patients. Patients were investigated using a germline cancer panel including the 13 genes defined by The French Genetic and Cancer Group (GGC)—Unicancer. In the patients analyzed, 528 pathogenic and likely pathogenic variants (P/LP) were identified, including BRCA1 (n = 203, 38%), BRCA2 (n = 198, 37%), PALB2 (n = 46, 9%), RAD51C (n = 36, 7%), TP53 (n = 16, 3%), and RAD51D (n = 13, 2%). In addition, 35 novel (P/LP) variants, according to our knowledge, were identified, and double mutations in two distinct genes were found in five patients. Interestingly, retesting a subset of BRCA1/2-negative individuals with an expanded panel produced clinically relevant results in 5% of cases. Additionally, combining in silico (splicing impact prediction tools) and in vitro analyses (RT-PCR and Sanger sequencing) highlighted the deleterious impact of four candidate variants on splicing and translation. Our results present an overview of pathogenic variations of HBOC genes in the southeast of France, emphasizing the clinical relevance of cDNA analysis and the importance of retesting BRCA-negative individuals with an expanded panel.
Evaluation of Efficacy of ALK Inhibitors According to Body Mass Index in ALK Rearranged NSCLC Patients—A Retrospective Observational Study
Authors: Siringo Marco , Gentile Gabriella , Caponnetto Salvatore , Sperduti Isabella , Santini Daniele , Cortesi Enrico , Gelibter Alain Jonathan
Published: June 2023

No evidence exists as to whether body mass index (BMI) impairs clinical outcomes from ALK inhibitors (ALKi) in patients with ALK-rearranged non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Retrospective data of patients affected by metastatic ALK-rearranged NSCLC treated with ALKi were collected. We divided patients into “low- BMI” (≤25 kg/m2) and “high- BMI” (>25 kg/m2) categories and correlated them with overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS). We included 40 patients treated with ALKi. We observed a 3-year OS of 81.5% in high-BMI vs. 49.6% in low-BMI categories (p = 0.049); the 3-year first-line PFS was superior in high-BMI vs. low-BMI patients (47% vs. 19%, p = 0.019). As expected, patients treated with Alectinib had a 55.6% 3-year PFS vs. 7.1% for others treated with ALKi (p = 0.025). High-BMI was associated with a 100% 3-year PFS rate vs. 25.4% in low-BMI Alectinib patients (p = 0.03). BMI was independently correlated with first-line PFS and OS at multivariate analysis with PS (HR 0.39, CI 95% 0.16–0.96, p = 0.042; HR 0.18, CI 95% 0.05–0.61, p = 0.006). High-BMI was associated with higher efficacy in ALK-rearranged patients. These results are particularly exciting for Alectinib and could be correlated to mechanisms that should be investigated in subsequent prospective studies.
Application of Ba0.5Sr0.5FeO3−δ-NdMnO3−δ Composite Cathode in Proton-Conducting Solid Oxide Fuel Cells
Authors: Sun Cuicui , Shen Yu , Wang Fang , Duan Qian , Jin Fangjun
Published: June 2023

Ba0.5Sr0.5FeO3−δ (BSF) nanofibers are prepared via electrospinning and sintering at a temperature of 800 °C for 2 h to produce a pure cubic perovskite phase, with the aim of finding a high-performance cathode material suitable for proton-conducting solid oxide fuel cells (PCFCs) operating at medium temperatures. The results of SEM analysis showed that the BSF nanofibers are alternately stacked, presenting fluffy and uniform high porosity, which is favorable to the cathode polarization reaction of PCFCs. To balance the excessive coefficient of thermal expansion of the BSF cathode, it is combined with a negative thermal expansion (NTE) material NdMnO3−δ (NM). At 700 °C, the peak power density (PPD) of the BSF–NM cathode cell is 1170 mW cm−2, and the open-circuit voltage (OCV) of the single cell is 1.04 V. The corresponding polarization impedance (Rp) of the BSF–NM is 0.037 Ω cm2. This result is significantly better than the previously reported powder cathode BSF, indicating that the performance of PCFC can be further optimized by transforming the BSF cathode into a nanofiber state and compounding it with the NTE material NM.
Pesticides in Foods: Towards Bioremediation Biocatalysts?
Authors: Perpetuini Giorgia , Nzobouh Fossi Pilar Anais , Kwak Seyi , Namessi Oscar , Petchkongkaew Awanwee , Tofalo Rosanna , Waché Yves
Published: June 2023

The presence of hazardous chemical compounds in foods is a growing concern in almost every country. Although some toxins come from microbial contamination, a major part comes from residues of pesticides used for plant health and food preservation. Despite plans to decrease their use, the concentration of hazardous residues encountered in food is growing. The societal solution to this issue is to find alternatives to chemicals and replace the most hazardous by biodegradable, fewer toxic compounds. However, as this greener transition takes some time, any transitory solution to decrease the risks of contamination is welcome. Among them, the stimulation of microbial pesticide degradation in food in a similar way to bioremediation in the environment would be very positive. In this review, we present the problem of food contamination, focusing on organophosphates and organochlorines, and the various possibilities of microbial decontamination. We discuss the possible use of microbial biocatalysts as a biopreservation tool. We conclude that, although this process is very promising, it lacks research taking into account the various degradation products and the elaboration of screening procedures able to choose some rare, efficient biopreservation strains.
“Pharaoh’s Snakes” Reaction-Derived Carbon with Favorable Structure and Composition as Metal-Free Oxygen Reduction Reaction Electrocatalyst
Authors: Li Yuan , Wang Xinyao , Wang Hong , Tan Xiaoyao , Liu Dan , Gui Jianzhou , Gao Jian , Yin Zhen , Ma Na , Wang Yun
Published: June 2023

Metal-air batteries rely on the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) for their operation. However, the ORR is kinetically slow, necessitating the use of Pt-based catalysts, which is hindered by their high cost and limited availability. Consequently, considerable efforts have been dedicated to developing metal-free catalysts for the ORR. Among these, heteroatom-doped carbons have emerged as promising candidates by manipulating their composition and microstructure. Inspired by the ancient “Pharaoh’s snakes” reaction, this study utilized sugar, melamine, and a polymerizable ionic liquid as precursors to prepare heteroatom-doped carbons with the desired composition and structure. The resulting carbon catalyst exhibited an onset potential and half-wave potential in a 0.1 M KOH electrolyte that was comparable to those of a commercial Pt/C 20 wt.% catalyst, with values of 0.97 and 0.83 VRHE, respectively. Furthermore, the catalyst demonstrated excellent stability, retaining 93% of its initial current after a 10,800-s test. To evaluate its practical application, the synthesized carbon was employed as the cathode catalyst in a Zn-air battery, which achieved a maximum power density of 90 mW cm−2. This study, therefore, presents a simple yet effective method for producing metal-free heteroatom-doped carbon ORR catalysts used in various energy conversion and storage devices.
Toward an Early Diagnosis for Alzheimer’s Disease Based on the Perinuclear Localization of the ATM Protein
Authors: Berthel Elise , Pujo-Menjouet Laurent , Le Reun Eymeric , Sonzogni Laurène , Al-Choboq Joëlle , Chekroun Abdennasser , Granzotto Adeline , Devic Clément , Ferlazzo Mélanie L. , Pereira Sandrine , Bourguignon Michel , Foray Nicolas
Published: June 2023

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the most common neurodegenerative dementia, for which the molecular origins, genetic predisposition and therapeutic approach are still debated. In the 1980s, cells from AD patients were reported to be sensitive to ionizing radiation. In order to examine the molecular basis of this radiosensitivity, the ATM-dependent DNA double-strand breaks (DSB) signaling and repair were investigated by applying an approach based on the radiation-induced ataxia telangiectasia-mutated (ATM) protein nucleoshuttling (RIANS) model. Early after irradiation, all ten AD fibroblast cell lines tested showed impaired DSB recognition and delayed RIANS. AD fibroblasts specifically showed spontaneous perinuclear localization of phosphorylated ATM (pATM) forms. To our knowledge, such observation has never been reported before, and by considering the role of the ATM kinase in the stress response, it may introduce a novel interpretation of accelerated aging. Our data and a mathematical approach through a brand-new model suggest that, in response to a progressive and cumulative stress, cytoplasmic ATM monomers phosphorylate the APOE protein (pAPOE) close to the nuclear membrane and aggregate around the nucleus, preventing their entry in the nucleus and thus the recognition and repair of spontaneous DSB, which contributes to the aging process. Our findings suggest that pATM and/or pAPOE may serve as biomarkers for an early reliable diagnosis of AD on any fibroblast sample.
Inhibition of Monoacylglycerol Lipase Decreases Angiogenic Features of Endothelial Cells via Release of Tissue Inhibitor of Metalloproteinase-1 from Lung Cancer Cells
Authors: Wittig Felix , Henkel Lino , Prüser Jan Lukas , Merkord Jutta , Ramer Robert , Hinz Burkhard
Published: June 2023

Despite the well-described anticarcinogenic effects of endocannabinoids, the influence of the endocannabinoid system on tumor angiogenesis is still debated. In the present study, conditioned medium (CM) from A549 and H358 lung cancer cells treated with ascending concentrations of the monoacylglycerol lipase (MAGL) inhibitor JZL184 and 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG), a prominent MAGL substrate, caused a concentration-dependent reduction in human umbilical vein endothelial cell (HUVEC) migration and tube formation compared with CM from vehicle-treated cancer cells. Comparative experiments with MAGL inhibitors JW651 and MJN110 showed the same results. On the other hand, the angiogenic properties of HUVECs were not significantly altered by direct stimulation with JZL184 or 2-AG or by exposure to CM of JZL184- or 2-AG-treated non-cancerous bronchial epithelial cells (BEAS-2B). Inhibition of HUVEC migration and tube formation by CM of JZL184- and 2-AG-treated A549 cells was abolished in the presence of the CB1 antagonist AM-251. Increased release of tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-1 (TIMP-1) from JZL184- or 2-AG-stimulated A549 or H358 cells was shown to exert an antiangiogenic effect on HUVECs, as confirmed by siRNA experiments. In addition, JZL184 caused a dose-dependent regression of A549 tumor xenografts in athymic nude mice, which was associated with a decreased number of CD31-positive cells and upregulation of TIMP-1-positive cells in xenograft tissue. In conclusion, our data suggest that elevation of 2-AG by MAGL inhibition leads to increased release of TIMP-1 from lung cancer cells, which mediates an antiangiogenic effect on endothelial cells.
Elevated Copeptin Levels Are Associated with Heart Failure Severity and Adverse Outcomes in Children with Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Karki Karan B. , Towbin Jeffrey A. , Shah Samir H. , Philip Ranjit R. , West Alina N. , Tadphale Sachin D. , Saini Arun
Published: June 2023

In children with cardiomyopathy, the severity of heart failure (HF) varies. However, copeptin, which is a biomarker of neurohormonal adaptation in heart failure, has not been studied in these patients. In this study, we evaluated the correlation of copeptin level with functional HF grading, B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP), and echocardiography variables in children with cardiomyopathy. Furthermore, we determined if copeptin levels are associated with adverse outcomes, including cardiac arrest, mechanical circulatory support, heart transplant, or death. In forty-two children with cardiomyopathy with a median (IQR) age of 13.1 years (2.5–17.2) and a median follow-up of 2.5 years (2.2–2.7), seven (16.7%) children had at least one adverse outcome. Copeptin levels were highest in the patients with adverse outcomes, followed by the patients without adverse outcomes, and then the healthy children. The copeptin levels in patients showed a strong correlation with their functional HF grading, BNP level, and left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF). Patients with copeptin levels higher than the median value of 25 pg/mL had a higher likelihood of experiencing adverse outcomes, as revealed by Kaplan–Meier survival analysis (p = 0.024). Copeptin level was an excellent predictor of outcomes, with an area under the curve of 0.861 (95% CI, 0.634–1.089), a sensitivity of 86%, and a specificity of 60% for copeptin level of 25 pg/mL. This predictive value was superior in patients with dilated and restrictive cardiomyopathies (0.97 (CI 0.927–1.036), p < 0.0001, n = 21) than in those with hypertrophic and LV non-compaction cardiomyopathies (0.60 (CI 0.04–1.16), p = 0.7, n = 21).
Sleeping and Dietary Factors Associated with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome in Taiwanese Preschoolers
Authors: Huang Su-Fen , Duan Hui-Ying
Published: June 2023

The purpose of this research was to investigate the sleeping and dietary factors associated with the prevalence of chronic fatigue syndrome among Taiwanese preschoolers. Five-year-old preschoolers were randomly selected using a stratified multistage random cluster sampling method. The parents of the preschoolers completed a questionnaire containing items related to symptoms of fatigue and sleeping and dietary habits among the preschoolers. A total of 1536 valid questionnaires were returned. After obtaining the data, the researchers analyzed them using descriptive statistics and a chi-square test. The following results were obtained: (1) chronic fatigue syndrome was typically indicated by yawning during the day, feeling tired, and appearing sleepy; (2) the preschoolers with high sleep quality, adequate sleeping time, and a regular sleep schedule exhibited a lower degree of fatigue; (3) half of the preschoolers who ate three nutritionally balanced meals a day at a regular time exhibited a lower degree of fatigue. Among the three dimensions studied, fatigue was most strongly associated with the “sleepy and inactive/blunted responses/lacking in energy” dimension, followed by the “difficulty concentrating” dimension, and, finally, the “localized pain” dimension. In this study, the association between sleeping habits and symptoms of fatigue in preschool children was verified. The associations of dietary factors with symptoms of fatigue were not confirmed. It is suggested that parents establish a good sleep schedule for preschool children based on the study findings.
A Novel Variant in the TP53 Gene Causing Li–Fraumeni Syndrome
Authors: Papadimitriou Dimitrios T. , Stratakis Constantine A. , Kattamis Antonis , Glentis Stavros , Dimitrakakis Constantine , Spyridis George P. , Christopoulos Panagiotis , Mastorakos George , Vlahos Nikolaos F. , Iacovidou Nicoletta
Published: June 2023

Li–Fraumeni syndrome (LFS) is an autosomal dominant hereditary cancer syndrome associated with germline pathogenic variants in the tumor protein p53 (TP53) gene and elevated risk of a broad range of early-onset malignancies. Patients with LFS are at risk of a second and third primary tumor. A 15-month-old girl consulted for clitoromegaly and pubic hair. Adrenal ultrasound detected a large left adrenal tumor. Left total adrenalectomy confirmed adrenocortical carcinoma. Family history revealed multiple highly malignant neoplasms at an early age across five generations, and a genetic dominant trait seemed probable. Whole-genome sequencing was performed. Multiple members of the family were found positive for a novel likely pathogenic variant (c. 892delGinsTTT, p. Glu298PhefsX48, NM_000546.6) in the TP53 gene, causing the loss of normal protein function through non-sense-mediated mRNA decay. According to the PSV1 supporting criteria and the Auto PVS1 online tool this frameshift variant: hg19/17-7577045-TC-TAAA:NM_000546.6 has a very strong, definitive clinical validity for LFS with autosomal dominant inheritance. Proper guidance resulted in timely diagnosis of a second tumor (primary osteosarcoma) in the index case and in the early detection of breast and cervical cancer in her young mother. Patients with cancer predisposition syndromes like LFS require close multidisciplinary cancer surveillance and appropriate referral to expert centers.
Selected Technical Aspects of Molecular Allergy Diagnostics
Authors: Lis Kinga , Bartuzi Zbigniew
Published: June 2023

Diagnosis of allergic diseases is a complex, multi-stage process. It often requires the use of various diagnostic tools. The in vitro diagnostics (IVD), which includes various laboratory tests, is one of the stages of this process. Standard laboratory tests include the measurement of the serum concentration of specific immunoglobulin E (sIgE) for selected allergens, full allergen extracts and/or single allergen components (molecules). The measurement of IgE sIgE to the allergen components is called molecular allergy diagnosis. During the standard laboratory diagnostic process, various models of immunochemical tests are used, which enable the measurement of sIgE for single allergens (one-parameter tests, singleplex) or IgE specific for many different allergens (multi-parameter tests, multiplex) in one test. Currently, there are many different test kits available, validated for IVD, which differ in the method type and allergen profile. The aim of the manuscript is to present various technical aspects related to modern allergy diagnostics, especially in the area of molecular allergy diagnostics.
The Microstructure, Hardness, Phase Transformation and Mechanical Properties of a NiTi Coating Applied to Graphite Substrate via a Plasma Spraying Process
Authors: Samal Sneha , Zeman Jakub , Kopeček Jaromír , Šittner Petr
Published: June 2023

In this study, Ni50Ti50 powder was coated on the surface of graphite substrate (C) via a plasma spraying process using a radio frequency inductively coupled plasma reactor. The coating was carried out using 12- and 9-kW power under Ar atmosphere. The cross-section of coating layers and the surface were examined with Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM), Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectrum (EDX), and X-ray Diffractometer (XRD) analyses and microhardness test. The thickness and quality of the coating increased with the input power. Many pores were detected in the cross-sectional surface areas. Higher input power caused a better coating layer of NiTi alloy. The hardness of the coating layer decreases with higher input power.
Lignin and Starch Derivatives with Selenium Nanoparticles for the Efficient Reduction of Dyes and as Polymer Fillers
Authors: Modrzejewska-Sikorska Anna , Robakowska Mariola , Konował Emilia , Gojzewski Hubert , Gierz Łukasz , Wieczorek Bartosz , Warguła Łukasz , Łykowski Wiktor
Published: June 2023

Selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) were synthesized and stabilized by biopolymers, namely, sodium lignosulfonate (LS) and starch sodium octenyl succinate (OSA). The obtained selenium nanoparticles were studied for their catalytic activity in the reduction of a dye (C.I. Basic Blue 9, methylene blue) by sodium borohydride. The SeNPs-OSA and SeNPs-LS nanoparticles were also dispersed in a photosensitive matrix and studied as polymer composites. The research confirmed the catalytic abilities of the prepared SeNPs in the reduction of the organic dye. Mechanical tests on the polymers and their composites showed an improvement in the composites’ strength in all tested cases. An increase in hardness and Young’s modulus values of the filled materials compared to the pure matrix was found as well.
First-Principles Investigation of the Diffusion of TM and the Nucleation and Growth of L12 Al3TM Particles in Al Alloys
Authors: Hu Te , Ruan Zixiong , Fan Touwen , Wang Kai , He Kuanfang , Wu Yuanzhi
Published: June 2023

The key parameters of growth and nucleation of Al3TM particles (TM = Sc-Zn, Y-Cd and Hf-Hg) have been calculated using the combination of the first principles calculations with the quasi-harmonic approximation (QHA). Herein, the diffusion rate Ds of TM elements in Al is calculated using the diffusion activation energy Q, and the results show that the Ds of all impurity atoms increases logarithmically with the increase in temperature. With the increase in atomic number of TM, the Ds of 3–5d TM elements decreases linearly from Sc, Y and Hf to Mn, Ru and Ir, and then increases to Zn, Ag and Au, respectively. The interface energy γα/β, strain energy ΔEcs, chemical formation energy variation ΔGV and surface energy Esurave were further computed from the based interface and slab models, respectively. It was found that, with the increase in the atomic number of TM, the interface energies γα/β of Al/Al3TM (TM = (Sc-Zn, Y-Cd)) decreased from Sc and Y to Mn and Tc and then increased to Zn and Cd, respectively (except for the (001) plane of Al/Al3(Fe-Co), the (111) plane of Al/Al3Pd and the (110) and (111) planes of Al/Al3Cd). The strain energies ΔEcs of Al/Al3TM (TM = (Sc-Zn)) increased at first, and then decreased for all cycles. The chemical formation energy ΔGV of all Al3TM changed slightly in the temperature range of 0~1000 K, except that the ΔGV of Al3Sc, Al3Cu, Al3(Y-Zr), Al3Cd, Al3Hf and Al3Hg increased nonlinearly. With the increase in atomic number at both 300 and 600 K, the ΔGV of 3–5d TM elements increased from Sc, Y and Hf to Mn, Tc and Re at first, and then decreased to Co, Rh and Ir, respectively, and slightly changes at the end. With the increase in atomic number of TM, the variation trends of the surface energies of Al3TM intermetallic compounds present similar changes for all cycles, and the (111) surface always has the lowest values.
Synergistic Effect of WS2 and Micro-Textures to Inhibit Graphitization and Delamination of Micro-Nano Diamond-Coated Tools
Authors: Zhang Zhao , Qin Xudong , Ma Silu , Liu Yang , Wang Liping , Zhao Xinyang
Published: June 2023

Diamond-coated tools often fail due to coating graphitization and delamination caused by poor coating adhesion, large contact stress, and thermochemical reactions. To address these issues, this research utilized a combination of micro-nano double-layer diamond coating, WS2 coating, and micro-textures. The WS2 coating inhibits the graphitization of the diamond coating through a transfer film mechanism, while the micro-textures and nanocrystalline diamond coating store WS2, resulting in a prolonged lubrication life. Additionally, the influence of micro-texture on coating-substrate residual stress and coating-substrate mechanical interlocking was discussed, and it was proved that proper micro-textures effectively improve the coating adhesion. Under the same cutting flux conditions, taking coating peeling as the judging standard, the cutting distance of textured WS2/Micro-Nano diamond coating tool is more than three times that of ordinary, diamond-coated tools, which greatly improves the service life of the tool.
The Community Structure of eDNA in the Los Angeles River Reveals an Altered Nitrogen Cycle at Impervious Sites
Authors: Senn Savanah , Bhattacharyya Sharmodeep , Presley Gerald , Taylor Anne E. , Stanis Rayne , Pangell Kelly , Melendez Daila , Ford Jillian
Published: June 2023

In this study, we sought to investigate the impact of urbanization, the presence of concrete river bottoms, and nutrient pollution on microbial communities along the L.A. River. Six molecular markers were evaluated for the identification of bacteria, plants, fungi, fish, and invertebrates in 90 samples. PCA (principal components analysis) was used along with PAM (partitioning around medoids) clustering to reveal community structure, and an NB (negative binomial) model in DESeq2 was used for differential abundance analysis. PCA and factor analysis exposed the main axes of variation but were sensitive to outliers. The differential abundance of Proteobacteria was associated with soft-bottom sites, and there was an apparent balance in the abundance of bacteria responsible for nitrogen cycling. Nitrogen cycling was explained via ammonia-oxidizing archaea; the complete ammonia oxidizers, Nitrospira sp.; nitrate-reducing bacteria, Marmoricola sp.; and nitrogen-fixing bacteria Devosia sp., which were differentially abundant at soft-bottom sites (p adj < 0.002). In contrast, the differential abundance of several cyanobacteria and other anoxygenic phototrophs was associated with the impervious sites, which suggested the accumulation of excess nitrogen. The soft-bottom sites tended to be represented by a differential abundance of aerobes, whereas the concrete-associated species tended to be alkaliphilic, saliniphilic, calciphilic, sulfate dependent, and anaerobic. In the Glendale Narrows, downstream from multiple water reclamation plants, there was a differential abundance of cyanobacteria and algae; however, indicator species for low nutrient environments and ammonia-abundance were also present. There was a differential abundance of ascomycetes associated with Arroyo Seco and a differential abundance of Scenedesmaceae green algae and cyanobacteria in Maywood, as seen in the analysis that compared suburban with urban river communities. The proportion of Ascomycota to Basidiomycota within the L.A. River differed from the expected proportion based on published worldwide freshwater and river 18S data; the shift in community structure was most likely associated with the extremes of urbanization. This study indicates that extreme urbanization can result in the overrepresentation of cyanobacterial species that could cause reductions in water quality and safety.
Orthodontic and Facial Characteristics of Craniofacial Syndromic Children with Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Authors: Alsaeed Suliman , Huynh Nelly , Wensley David , Lee Kevin , Hamoda Mona M. , Ayers Evan , Sutherland Kate , Almeida Fernanda R.
Published: June 2023

Introduction: Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a disorder in which ventilation becomes disrupted due to a complete or partial upper airway obstruction Altered craniofacial morphology is one of the most important anatomical factors associated with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Studies have assessed craniofacial features in the non-syndromic pediatric population. The aim of this study was to analyze the orthodontic and facial characteristic of craniofacial syndromic children referred for polysomnography (PSG) and to assess the correlation with the apnea–hypopnea index (AHI). Methods: In the current cross-sectional study, consecutive syndromic patients referred for PSG were invited to participate. A systematic clinical examination including extra- and intra-oral orthodontic examination was performed by calibrated orthodontists. Standardized frontal and profile photographs with reference points were taken and analyzed using ImageJ® software to study the craniofacial morphology. PSG data were analyzed for correlation with craniofacial features. STROBE guidelines were strictly adopted during the research presentation. Results: The sample included 52 syndromic patients (50% females, mean age 9.38 ± 3.36 years) diagnosed with 17 different syndromes, of which 24 patients had craniofacial photography analysis carried out. Most of the sample (40%) had severe OSA, while only 5.8% had no OSA. Down’s syndrome (DS) was the most common syndrome (40%) followed by Goldenhar syndrome (5%), Pierre Robin Sequence (5%), and other syndromes. The severity of AHI was significantly correlated with decreased midfacial height. increased thyromental angle and cervicomental angle, decreased mandibular angle, and decreased upper facial height. All patients with DS were diagnosed with OSA (57% severe OSA), and their ODI was significantly correlated with increased intercanthal distance. Obesity was not correlated to the severity of AHI for syndromic patients. Conclusions: Decreased midfacial height and obtuse thyromental angle were correlated with increased AHI for syndromic patients. Increased intercanthal distance of DS patients could be a major predictor of OSA severity. Obesity does not seem to play a major role in the severity of OSA for syndromic patients. Further studies with larger samples are necessary to confirm these findings.
Access Cavity Preparation and Localization of Root Canals Using Guides in 3D-Printed Teeth with Calcified Root Canals: An In Vitro CBCT Study
Authors: Kamburoğlu Kıvanç , Sönmez Gül , Koç Cemre , Yılmaz Funda , Tunç Osman , Isayev Abulfaz
Published: June 2023

Pulp canal obliteration (PCO) is a significant complication in endodontics that can occur due to various factors. Cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) is a useful diagnostic tool for identifying root canal anatomy and variations, and guided endodontics is emerging as an alternative treatment solution for teeth with partially or entirely obliterated pulpal canals. However, the accuracy of CBCT-guided 3D-printed guides on different materials and layer thicknesses is not well understood. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the accuracy of guides prepared using CBCT images on 3D-printed teeth with stereolithography (SLA) using three different materials and two different layer thicknesses. This study found that 3D-printed guides were accurate and reliable for accessing 3D-manufactured obliterated teeth and reaching the apical area. No significant differences in distance or angle measurements were found when different guide materials were used, suggesting that materials can be selected based on availability and cost. These findings contribute to the knowledge base regarding the effectiveness of 3D printing technology in guided endodontics and can help to identify the most suitable materials and techniques for this application.
The Contribution of Sleep Texture in the Characterization of Sleep Apnea
Authors: Mutti Carlotta , Pollara Irene , Abramo Anna , Soglia Margherita , Rapina Clara , Mastrillo Carmela , Alessandrini Francesca , Rosenzweig Ivana , Rausa Francesco , Pizzarotti Silvia , Salvatelli Marcello luigi , Balella Giulia , Parrino Liborio
Published: June 2023

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is multi-faceted world-wide-distributed disorder exerting deep effects on the sleeping brain. In the latest years, strong efforts have been dedicated to finding novel measures assessing the real impact and severity of the pathology, traditionally trivialized by the simplistic apnea/hypopnea index. Due to the unavoidable connection between OSA and sleep, we reviewed the key aspects linking the breathing disorder with sleep pathophysiology, focusing on the role of cyclic alternating pattern (CAP). Sleep structure, reflecting the degree of apnea-induced sleep instability, may provide topical information to stratify OSA severity and foresee some of its dangerous consequences such as excessive daytime sleepiness and cognitive deterioration. Machine learning approaches may reinforce our understanding of this complex multi-level pathology, supporting patients’ phenotypization and easing in a more tailored approach for sleep apnea.
Association between the Immunophenotype of Peripheral Blood from mCRPC Patients and the Outcomes of Radium-223 Treatment
Authors: Cantó Elisabet , Anguera Georgia , Jiménez Natalia , Mellado Begoña , Ramírez Ona , Mariscal Anais , Maroto Pablo , Vidal Silvia
Published: June 2023

(1) Background: Prostate cancer is the second most common cancer in men, with androgen suppression as the standard treatment. Despite initially responding to castration, most metastatic prostate cancer patients eventually experience progression. In these cases, Radium-223 is the chosen treatment. We hypothesized that the immunophenotype of circulating leukocytes conditions the response to Radium-223 treatment. (2) Material and Methods: In this prospective study, we collected peripheral blood from twelve mCRPC patients and nine healthy donors before (baseline) and during treatment with Radium-223. Immunophenotyping and the percentages of leukocyte–platelet complexes were determined by flow cytometry. The increments or decrements of leukocyte subsets between the baseline and the second Radium-223 injection were also calculated. (3) Results: At baseline, the mCRPC patients had a lower percentages of CD4+ T cells and B cells and higher percentages of NK and neutrophils than the HDs. In addition, they had more OX40+ CD4+ T cells, PD-L1+ CD8low cells, PD-L1+ B cells, PD-L1+ NK cells, and monocyte–platelet complexes than the HDs. Moreover, patients with slow and fast progression had different percentages of PD-L1+ CD8+ T cells. In particular, slow progression patients underwent an increment of PD-L1+ CD8+ T cells after two cycles of Radium-223. (4) Conclusions: The characterization of circulating immune cells before initiating Radium-223 treatment could become a non-invasive indicator of the response.
A Systematic Review of the Relationship between Chest CT Severity Score and Laboratory Findings and Clinical Parameters in COVID-19 Pneumonia
Authors: Majrashi Naif A. , Alhulaibi Rakan A. , Nammazi Ibrahim H. , Alqasi Mohammed H. , Alyami Ali S. , Ageeli Wael A. , Abuhadi Nouf H. , Kharizy Ali A. , Khormi Abdu M. , Ghazwani Mohammed G. , Alqasmi Ali A. , Refaee Turkey A.
Published: June 2023

The COVID-19 virus has infected millions of people and became a global pandemic in 2020. The efficacy of laboratory and clinical parameters in the diagnosis and monitoring of COVID-19 has been established. The CT scan has been identified as a crucial tool in the prognostication of COVID-19 pneumonia. Moreover, it has been proposed that the CT severity score can be utilized for the diagnosis and prognostication of COVID-19 disease severity and exhibits a correlation with laboratory findings such as inflammatory markers, blood glucose levels, and clinical parameters such as endotracheal intubation, oxygen saturation, mortality, and hospital admissions. Nevertheless, the correlation between the CT severity score and clinical or laboratory parameters has not been firmly established. The objective of this study is to provide a comprehensive review of the aforementioned association. This review used a systematic approach to collate and assess the existing literature that investigates the correlation between CT severity score and laboratory and clinical parameters. The search was conducted using Embase Ovid, MEDLINE Ovid, and PubMed databases, covering the period from inception to 20 May 2023. This review identified 20 studies involving more than 8000 participants of varying designs. The findings showed that the CT severity score is positively associated with laboratory and clinical parameters in COVID-19 patients. The findings indicate that the CT severity score exhibits a satisfactory level of prognostic accuracy in predicting mortality among patients with COVID-19.
aMMP-8 Point-of-Care Test (POCT) Identifies Reliably Periodontitis in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes as well as Monitors Treatment Response
Authors: Heikkinen Anna Maria , Sokka Taru Tuulia , Torppa-Saarinen Eeva , Pimiä Elina , Jokinen Minna , Maijala Minna , Rantala Iina , Tervahartiala Taina , Sorsa Timo , Kauppila Timo
Published: June 2023

Background: The link between diabetes and periodontitis is bi-directional: high glucose levels increase the risk of periodontitis and elevated oral fluid aMMP-8 as well as diabetic development while untreated periodontitis worsens glycaemic control. Methods: Type-2 patients (N = 161) underwent an aMMP-8 Point-of-Care Test (POCT) at diabetes clinics. If the test was positive, the patient was sent to an oral health care clinic and oral health examination, health-promoting as well as necessary treatment procedures were carried out. Only 41 patients underwent full clinical evaluations. At the end of the treatment, an aMMP-8 POCT (B) was performed and if the test was positive, the treatment was continued and a new test (C) was performed, aiming for test negativity. The glycated haemoglobin (GHbA1c) test was performed approximately 6 months from the original appointment. Results: GHbA1c concentrations did not decrease during the follow-up. The concentrations of aMMP-8 assessed by POCT, and clinical parameters decreased. Changes in GHbA1c and aMMP-8 levels assessed by POCT during the treatment correlated positively with each other (p < 0.01). Conclusion: aMMP-8 POCT proved its reliability, and that its use is beneficial in the diabetes clinic, it enables identifying patients with periodontal findings reliably and guides them directly to an oral health clinic.
Feasibility of Diffusion Tensor Imaging for Decreasing Biopsy Rates in Breast Imaging: Interim Analysis of a Prospective Study
Authors: Ecanow Jacob S. , Ecanow David B. , Hack Bradley , Leloudas Nondas , Prasad Pottumarthi V.
Published: June 2023

Because of the limited specificity of diagnostic imaging, many breast lesions referred for biopsy turn out to be benign. The objective of this study was to evaluate whether diffusion tensor MRI (DTI) parametric maps can be used to safely avoid biopsy of breast lesions. Individuals referred for breast biopsy based on mammogram (MG), ultrasound (US), and/or contrast enhanced (CE)-MRI were recruited. Scans consisting of T2-weighted and DTI sequences were performed. Multiple DTI-derived parametric color maps were evaluated semi-quantitatively to characterize lesions as “definitely benign,” “not definitely benign,” or “suspicious.” All patients subsequently underwent biopsy. In this moderately-sized prospective study, 21 out of 47 pathologically proven benign lesions were characterized by both readers as “definitely benign,” which would have precluded the need for biopsy. Biopsy was recommended for 11 out of 13 cancers that were characterized as “suspicious.” In the remaining two cancers and 26 of 47 benign lesions, the scans were characterized as “not definitely benign” and hence required biopsy. The main causes for “not definitely benign” scans were small lesion sizes and noise. The results suggest that in appropriately selected patients, DTI may be used to safely reduce the number of unnecessary breast biopsies.