bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Isolation and Characterization of scFv Antibody against Internal Ribosomal Entry Site of Enterovirus A71
Authors: Hlaing Su Thandar , Srimanote Potjanee , Tongtawe Pongsri , Khantisitthiporn Onruedee , Glab-ampai Kittirat , Chulanetra Monrat , Thanongsaksrikul Jeeraphong
Published: June 2023

Enterovirus A71 (EV-A71) is one of the causative agents of hand-foot-mouth disease, which can be associated with neurocomplications of the central nervous system. A limited understanding of the virus’s biology and pathogenesis has led to the unavailability of effective anti-viral treatments. The EV-A71 RNA genome carries type I internal ribosomal entry site (IRES) at 5′ UTR that plays an essential role in the viral genomic translation. However, the detailed mechanism of IRES-mediated translation has not been elucidated. In this study, sequence analysis revealed that the domains IV, V, and VI of EV-A71 IRES contained the structurally conserved regions. The selected region was transcribed in vitro and labeled with biotin to use as an antigen for selecting the single-chain variable fragment (scFv) antibody from the naïve phage display library. The so-obtained scFv, namely, scFv #16-3, binds specifically to EV-A71 IRES. The molecular docking showed that the interaction between scFv #16-3 and EV-A71 IRES was mediated by the preferences of amino acid residues, including serine, tyrosine, glycine, lysine, and arginine on the antigen-binding sites contacted the nucleotides on the IRES domains IV and V. The so-produced scFv has the potential to develop as a structural biology tool to study the biology of the EV-A71 RNA genome.
Human Umbilical Cord Blood Endothelial Progenitor Cell-Derived Extracellular Vesicles Control Important Endothelial Cell Functions
Authors: Ben Fraj Sawssen , Naserian Sina , Lorenzini Bileyle , Goulinet Sylvie , Mauduit Philippe , Uzan Georges , Haouas Houda
Published: June 2023

Circulating endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) play a pivotal role in the repair of diseases in which angiogenesis is required. Although they are a potentially valuable cell therapy tool, their clinical use remains limited due to suboptimal storage conditions and, especially, long-term immune rejection. EPC-derived extracellular vesicles (EPC-EVs) may be an alternative to EPCs given their key role in cell–cell communication and expression of the same parental markers. Here, we investigated the regenerative effects of umbilical cord blood (CB) EPC-EVs on CB-EPCs in vitro. After amplification, EPCs were cultured in a medium containing an EVs-depleted serum (EV-free medium). Then, EVs were isolated from the conditioned medium with tangential flow filtration (TFF). The regenerative effects of EVs on cells were investigated by analyzing cell migration, wound healing, and tube formation. We also analyzed their effects on endothelial cell inflammation and Nitric Oxide (NO) production. We showed that adding different doses of EPC-EVs on EPCs does not alter the basal expression of the endothelial cell markers nor change their proliferative potential and NO production level. Furthermore, we demonstrated that EPC-EVs, when used at a higher dose than the physiological dose, create a mild inflammatory condition that activates EPCs and boosts their regenerative features. Our results reveal for the first time that EPC-EVs, when used at a high dose, enhance EPC regenerative functions without altering their endothelial identity.
A Comparative XPS, UV PES, NEXAFS, and DFT Study of the Electronic Structure of the Salen Ligand in the H2(Salen) Molecule and the [Ni(Salen)] Complex
Authors: Korusenko Petr M. , Petrova Olga V. , Vereshchagin Anatoliy A. , Katin Konstantin P. , Levin Oleg V. , Nekipelov Sergey V. , Sivkov Danil V. , Sivkov Victor N. , Vinogradov Alexander S.
Published: June 2023

A comparative study of the electronic structure of the salen ligand in the H2(Salen) molecule and the [Ni(Salen)] complex was performed using the experimental methods of XPS, UV PES, and NEXAFS spectroscopy along with DFT calculations. Significant chemical shifts of +1.0 eV (carbon), +1.9 eV (nitrogen), and −0.4 eV (oxygen) were observed in the 1s PE spectra of the salen ligand atoms when passing from a molecule to a complex, unambiguously indicating a substantial redistribution of the valence electron density between these atoms. It is proposed that the electron density transfer to the O atoms in [Ni(Salen)] occurred not only from the Ni atom, but also from the N and C atoms. This process seemed to be realized through the delocalized conjugated π-system of the phenol C 2p electronic states of the ligand molecule. The DFT calculations (total and partial DOS) for the valence band H2(Salen) and [Ni(Salen)] described well the spectral shape of the UV PE spectra of both compounds and confirmed their experimental identification. An analysis of the N and O 1s NEXAFS spectra clearly indicated that the atomic structure of the ethylenediamine and phenol fragments was retained upon passing from the free salen ligand to the nickel complex.
No Evidence for Myocarditis or Other Organ Affection by Induction of an Immune Response against Critical SARS-CoV-2 Protein Epitopes in a Mouse Model Susceptible for Autoimmunity
Authors: Ignatz Rebecca Maria , Zirkenbach Vanessa Antje , Kaya Mansur , Stroikova Vera , Öttl Renate , Frey Norbert , Kaya Ziya
Published: June 2023

After Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) developed into a global pandemic, not only the infection itself but also several immune-mediated side effects led to additional consequences. Immune reactions such as epitope spreading and cross-reactivity may also play a role in the development of long-COVID, although the exact pathomechanisms have not yet been elucidated. Infection with SARS-CoV-2 can not only cause direct damage to the lungs but can also lead to secondary indirect organ damage (e.g., myocardial involvement), which is often associated with high mortality. To investigate whether an immune reaction against the viral peptides can lead to organ affection, a mouse strain known to be susceptible to the development of autoimmune diseases, such as experimental autoimmune myocarditis (EAM), was used. First, the mice were immunized with single or pooled peptide sequences of the virus’s spike (SP), membrane (MP), nucleocapsid (NP), and envelope protein (EP), then the heart and other organs such as the liver, kidney, lung, intestine, and muscle were examined for signs of inflammation or other damage. Our results showed no significant inflammation or signs of pathology in any of these organs as a result of the immunization with these different viral protein sequences. In summary, immunization with different SARS-CoV-2 spike-, membrane-, nucleocapsid-, and envelope-protein peptides does not significantly affect the heart or other organ systems adversely, even when using a highly susceptible mouse strain for experimental autoimmune diseases. This suggests that inducing an immune reaction against these peptides of the SARS-CoV-2 virus alone is not sufficient to cause inflammation and/or dysfunction of the myocardium or other studied organs.
The Role of IL-17 in the Pathogenesis of Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Ladjevac Nevena , Milovanovic Marija , Jevtovic Andra , Arsenijevic Dragana , Stojanovic Bojana , Dimitrijevic Stojanovic Milica , Stojanovic Bojan , Arsenijevic Nebojsa , Arsenijevic Aleksandar , Milovanovic Jelena
Published: June 2023

Elucidating the inflammatory mechanisms underlying formation and progression of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is crucial for discovering new targeted therapeutics. The proinflammatory cytokine IL-17 has proven roles in tumor formation, growth, and metastasis. The presence of IL-17 is demonstrated in both in vitro and in vivo models, and in OSCC patients, is mostly accompanied by enhanced proliferation and invasiveness of cancer cells. Here we review the known facts regarding the role of IL-17 in OSCC pathogenesis, namely the IL-17 mediated production of proinflammatory mediators that mobilize and activate myeloid cells with suppressive and proangiogenic activities and proliferative signals that directly induce proliferation of cancer cells and stem cells. The possibility of a potential IL-17 blockade in OSCC therapy is also discussed.
Control of Bacterial Phenotype and Chromosomal Gene Expression by Single Plasmids of Lactococcus lactis IL594
Authors: Kosiorek Katarzyna , Koryszewska-Bagińska Anna , Skoneczny Marek , Aleksandrzak-Piekarczyk Tamara
Published: June 2023

Plasmid-free Lactococcus lactis IL1403 is one of the best-characterized representatives of lactic acid bacteria (LAB), intensively used in broad microbiology worldwide. Its parent strain, L. lactis IL594, contains seven plasmids (pIL1–pIL7) with resolved DNA sequences and an indicated role for overall plasmid load in enhancing host-adaptive potential. To determine how individual plasmids manipulate the expression of phenotypes and chromosomal genes, we conducted global comparative phenotypic analyses combined with transcriptomic studies in plasmid-free L. lactis IL1403, multiplasmid L. lactis IL594, and its single-plasmid derivatives. The presence of pIL2, pIL4, and pIL5 led to the most pronounced phenotypic differences in the metabolism of several carbon sources, including some β-glycosides and organic acids. The pIL5 plasmid also contributed to increased tolerance to some antimicrobial compounds and heavy metal ions, especially those in the toxic cation group. Comparative transcriptomics showed significant variation in the expression levels of up to 189 chromosomal genes due to the presence of single plasmids and 435 unique chromosomal genes that were resultant of the activity of all plasmids, which may suggest that the observed phenotypic changes are not only the result of a direct action of their own genes but also originate from indirect actions through crosstalk between plasmids and the chromosome. The data obtained here indicate that plasmid maintenance leads to the development of important mechanisms of global gene regulation that provide changes in the central metabolic pathways and adaptive properties of L. lactis and suggest the possibility of a similar phenomenon among other groups of bacteria.
Thymoquinone Inhibition of Chemokines in TNF-α-Induced Inflammatory and Metastatic Effects in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Cells
Authors: Adinew Getinet M. , Messeha Samia , Taka Equar , Mochona Bereket , Redda Kinfe K. , Soliman Karam F. A.
Published: June 2023

The lack of identifiable molecular targets or biomarkers hinders the development of treatment options in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). However, natural products offer a promising alternative by targeting inflammatory chemokines in the tumor microenvironment (TME). Chemokines are crucial in promoting breast cancer growth and metastasis and correlate to the altered inflammatory process. In the present study, we evaluated the anti-inflammatory and antimetastatic effects of the natural product thymoquinone (TQ) on TNF-α-stimulated TNBC cells (MDA-MB-231 and MDA-MB-468) to study the cytotoxic, antiproliferative, anticolony, antimigratory, and antichemokine effects using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays, quantitative real-time reverse transcription–polymerase chain reactions, and Western blots were used in sequence to validate the microarray results further. Four downregulated inflammatory cytokines were identified, CCL2 and CCL20 in MDA-MB-468 cells and CCL3 and CCL4 in MDA-MB-231 cells. Furthermore, when TNF-α-stimulated MDA-MB-231 cells were compared with MDA-MB-468 cells, the two cells were sensitive to TQ’s antichemokine and antimetastatic effect in preventing cell migration. It was concluded from this investigation that genetically different cell lines may respond to TQ differently, as TQ targets CCL3 and CCL4 in MDA-MB-231 cells and CCL2 and CCL20 in MDA-MB-468 cells. Therefore, the results indicate that TQ may be recommended as a component of the therapeutic strategy for TNBC treatment. These outcomes stem from the compound’s capacity to suppress the chemokine. Even though these findings support the usage of TQ as part of a therapy strategy for TNBC associated with the identified chemokine dysregulations, additional in vivo studies are needed to confirm these in vitro results.
Microneedle-Integrated Sensors for Extraction of Skin Interstitial Fluid and Metabolic Analysis
Authors: Yang Jie , Luo Ruiyu , Yang Lei , Wang Xiaocheng , Huang Yong
Published: June 2023

Skin interstitial fluid (ISF) has emerged as a fungible biofluid sample for blood serum and plasma for disease diagnosis and therapy. The sampling of skin ISF is highly desirable considering its easy accessibility, no damage to blood vessels, and reduced risk of infection. Particularly, skin ISF can be sampled using microneedle (MN)-based platforms in the skin tissues, which exhibit multiple advantages including minimal invasion of the skin tissues, less pain, ease of carrying, capacity for continuous monitoring, etc. In this review, we focus on the current development of microneedle-integrated transdermal sensors for collecting ISF and detecting specific disease biomarkers. Firstly, we discussed and classified microneedles according to their structural design, including solid MNs, hollow MNs, porous MNs, and coated MNs. Subsequently, we elaborate on the construction of MN-integrated sensors for metabolic analysis with highlights on the electrochemical, fluorescent, chemical chromogenic, immunodiagnostic, and molecular diagnostic MN-integrated sensors. Finally, we discuss the current challenges and future direction for developing MN-based platforms for ISF extraction and sensing applications.
A Surprising Diversity of Xyloglucan Endotransglucosylase/Hydrolase in Wheat: New in Sight to the Roles in Drought Tolerance
Authors: Han Junjie , Liu Yichen , Shen Yiting , Li Weihua
Published: June 2023

Drought has become a major limiting factor for wheat productivity, and its negative impact on crop growth is anticipated to increase with climate deterioration in arid areas. Xyloglucan endoglycosylases/hydrolases (XTHs) are involved in constructing and remodeling cell wall structures and play an essential role in regulating cell wall extensibility and stress responses. However, there are no systematic studies on the wheat XTH gene family. In this study, 71 wheat XTH genes (TaXTHs) were characterized and classified into three subgroups through phylogenetic analysis. Genomic replication promoted the expansion of TaXTHs. We found a catalytically active motif and a potential N-linked glycosylation domain in all TaXTHs. Further expression analysis revealed that many TaXTHs in the roots and shoots were significantly associated with drought stress. The wheat TaXTH12.5a gene was transferred into Arabidopsis to verify a possible role of TaXTHs in stress response. The transgenic plants possessed higher seed germination rates and longer roots and exhibited improved tolerance to drought. In conclusion, bioinformatics and gene expression pattern analysis indicated that the TaXTH genes played a role in regulating drought response in wheat. The expression of TaXTH12.5a enhanced drought tolerance in Arabidopsis and supported the XTH genes’ role in regulating drought stress response in plants.
Bone Growth Induction in Mucopolysaccharidosis IVA Mouse
Authors: Rintz Estera , Herreño-Pachón Angélica María , Celik Betul , Nidhi Fnu , Khan Shaukat , Benincore-Flórez Eliana , Tomatsu Shunji
Published: June 2023

Mucopolysaccharidosis IVA (MPS IVA; Morquio A syndrome) is caused by a deficiency of the N-acetylgalactosamine-6-sulfate-sulfatase (GALNS) enzyme, leading to the accumulation of glycosaminoglycans (GAG), keratan sulfate (KS) and chondroitin-6-sulfate (C6S), mainly in cartilage and bone. This lysosomal storage disorder (LSD) is characterized by severe systemic skeletal dysplasia. To this date, none of the treatment options for the MPS IVA patients correct bone pathology. Enzyme replacement therapy with elosulfase alpha provides a limited impact on bone growth and skeletal lesions in MPS IVA patients. To improve bone pathology, we propose a novel gene therapy with a small peptide as a growth-promoting agent for MPS IVA. A small molecule in this peptide family has been found to exert biological actions over the cardiovascular system. This work shows that an AAV vector expressing a C-type natriuretic (CNP) peptide induces bone growth in the MPS IVA mouse model. Histopathological analysis showed the induction of chondrocyte proliferation. CNP peptide also changed the pattern of GAG levels in bone and liver. These results suggest the potential for CNP peptide to be used as a treatment in MPS IVA patients.
Exposure to Benzo[a]pyrene Decreases Noradrenergic and Serotonergic Axons in Hippocampus of Mouse Brain
Authors: Abd El Naby Walaa , Zong Cai , Fergany Alzahraa , Ekuban Frederick , Ahmed Saleh , Reda Yousra , Sato Harue , Ichihara Sahoko , Kubota Natsuko , Yanagita Shinya , Ichihara Gaku
Published: June 2023

Epidemiological studies showed the association between air pollution and dementia. A soluble fraction of particulate matters including polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) is suspected to be involved with the adverse effects of air pollution on the central nervous system of humans. It is also reported that exposure to benzopyrene (B[a]P), which is one of the PAHs, caused deterioration of neurobehavioral performance in workers. The present study investigated the effect of B[a]P on noradrenergic and serotonergic axons in mouse brains. In total, 48 wild-type male mice (10 weeks of age) were allocated into 4 groups and exposed to B[a]P at 0, 2.88, 8.67 or 26.00 µg/mice, which is approximately equivalent to 0.12, 0.37 and 1.12 mg/kg bw, respectively, by pharyngeal aspiration once/week for 4 weeks. The density of noradrenergic and serotonergic axons was evaluated by immunohistochemistry in the hippocampal CA1 and CA3 areas. Exposure to B[a]P at 2.88 µg/mice or more decreased the density of noradrenergic or serotonergic axons in the CA1 area and the density of noradrenergic axons in the CA3 area in the hippocampus of mice. Furthermore, exposure to B[a]P dose-dependently upregulated Tnfα at 8.67 µg/mice or more, as well as upregulating Il-1β at 26 µg/mice, Il-18 at 2.88 and 26 µg/mice and Nlrp3 at 2.88 µg/mice. The results demonstrate that exposure to B[a]P induces degeneration of noradrenergic or serotonergic axons and suggest the involvement of proinflammatory or inflammation-related genes with B[a]P-induced neurodegeneration.
Undergraduate Interprofessional Education in the European Higher Education Area: A Systematic Review
Authors: Colonnello Valentina , Kinoshita Yukako , Yoshida Nao , Bustos Villalobos Itzel
Published: June 2023

Background: As a contribution to developing interprofessional education (IPE) synergy between medical education systems in the European Higher Education Area (EHEA), this review aims to describe the IPE experiences for undergraduate medical students implemented in EHEA member countries. Methods: This systematic review followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. The search was conducted on SCOUPS and MEDLINE databases. Inclusion criteria were peer-reviewed English language articles about undergraduate medical students, interprofessional education, and EHEA countries, published January 2000–September 2022. Results: The 32 included studies were from 14 of the 49 EHEA countries. In most of the studies, the theoretical background leading the intervention was not reported (n = 25), and in several studies (n = 16) the students were from two professions only. The reported outcomes were related to self-assessment knowledge about IPE and satisfaction about the program. In 24 studies, the assessment was based on the study’s ad hoc measures only. Limitations ranged from selection bias to lack of objective measures. Conclusion: Future directions should envision developing IPE among EHEA countries, including agreement and consistency across EHEA countries in reporting theories, educational methods, and standardized IPE evaluation measures.
Synthesis, Structure and Bonding of the Tungstaboranes [Cp*W(CO)2B3H8] and [(Cp*W)3(CO)2B4H7]
Authors: Mohapatra Stutee , Gayen Sourav , Shyamal Sampad , Halet Jean-François , Ghosh Sundargopal
Published: June 2023

The structure and bonding of two novel tungstaboranes which were synthesized using diverse synthetic methods are described. (i) The room-temperature photolysis of [Cp*W(CO)3Me] with [BH3·SMe2] led to the isolation of the hydrogen-rich tungstaborane [Cp*W(CO)2B3H8] (1). Its geometry consists of an arachno butterfly core similar to tetraborane(10) and obeys the Wade-Mingos electron counting rules (n vertices, n + 3 skeletal electron pairs (seps)). (ii) Further, the tungstaborane [(Cp*W)3(μ-H)2(μ3-H)(μ-CO)2B4H4] (4) was isolated by thermolysis reaction of a tungsten intermediate, obtained by low temperature reaction of [Cp*WCl4] and [LiBH4·THF] with [Cr(CO)5·THF]. Compound 4 which seems to have formed by replacement of a BH unit in [(Cp*W)2B5H9] by the isoelectronic fragment {Cp*W(CO)2}, adopts an oblato-nido hexagonal-bipyramidal core (n vertices, n–1 seps). Both compounds were characterized using multinuclear NMR, IR spectroscopy, mass spectrometry as well as single crystal X-ray diffraction analysis. In addition, density functional theory (DFT) calculations were performed in order to elucidate their bonding and electronic structures.
The Influence of Ag+/Ti4+ Ratio on Structural, Optical and Photocatalytic Properties of MWCNT–TiO2–Ag Nanocomposites
Authors: Suciu Ramona-Crina , Zagrai Mioara , Popa Adriana , Toloman Dana , Berghian-Grosan Camelia , Tudoran Cristian , Stefan Maria
Published: June 2023

In this paper, we propose a simple procedure to obtain multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) decorated with TiO2–Ag nanoparticles (MWCNT–TiO2–Ag). The MWCNTs were decorated with TiO2–Ag via combined functionalization with –OH and –COOH groups and a polymer-wrapping technique using poly(allylamine)hydrochloride (PAH). TiO2-modified Ag nanoparticles were synthesized via the Pechini method using a mixture of acetylacetonate-modified titanium (IV) isopropoxide with silver nitrate (with Ag+/Ti4+ atomic ratios of 0.5%, 1.0%, 1.5%, 2.0%, and 2.5%) and L(+)-ascorbic acid as reducing agents. XRD analysis revealed the formation of nanocomposites containing CNT, anatase TiO2, and Ag. The presence of nanoparticles on the MWCNT surfaces was determined using TEM. The morphology of the TiO2–Ag nanoparticles on the MWCNT surfaces was also determined using TEM. UV–Vis investigations revealed that an increase in the ratio between Ag+ and Ti4+ decreased the band gap energy of the samples. The characteristic vibrations of the TiO2, Ag, and C atoms of the graphite were identified using Raman spectroscopy. The photocatalytic activity of the MWCNT–TiO2–Ag nanocomposite was assessed by examining the degradation of Allura Red (E129) aqueous solution under UV irradiation. The dye photodegradation process followed a pseudo-first-order kinetic with respect to the Langmuir–Hinshelwood reaction mechanism. The spin-trapping technique evidenced that •O2− was the main species generated responsible for the Allura Red degradation.
Towards a Sustainable Management of the Spotted-Wing Drosophila: Disclosing the Effects of Two Spider Venom Peptides on Drosophila suzukii
Authors: Regalado Laura , Sario Sara , Mendes Rafael J. , Valle Javier , Harvey Peta J. , Teixeira Cátia , Gomes Paula , Andreu David , Santos Conceição
Published: June 2023

The spotted-wing drosophila (Drosophila suzukii) is a polyphagous pest that causes severe damage and economic losses to soft-skinned fruit production. Current control methods are dominated by inefficient cultural practices and broad-spectrum insecticides that, in addition to having toxic effects on non-target organisms, are becoming less effective due to acquired resistance. The increasing awareness of the real impact of insecticides on health and the environment has promoted the exploration of new insecticidal compounds, addressing novel molecular targets. This study explores the efficacy of two orally delivered spider venom peptides (SVPs), J-atracotoxin-Hv1c (Hv1c) and µ-theraphotoxin-Hhn2b (TRTX), to manage D. suzukii, through survival assays and the evaluation of gene expression associated with detoxification pathways. Treatment with TRTX at 111.5 µM for 48 h enhanced fly longevity compared with the control group. Gene expression analysis suggests that detoxification and stress-related mechanisms, such as expression of P450 proteins and apoptotic stimuli signaling, are triggered in D. suzukii flies in response to these treatments. Our results highlight the potential interest of SVPs to control this pest, shedding light on how to ultimately develop improved target-specific formulations.
Clinical Utility of 18Fluorodeoxyglucose Positron Emission Tomography/Computed Tomography (18F-FDG PET/CT) in Multivisceral Transplant Patients
Authors: Ong Shao Jin , Sharkey Lisa M. , Low Kai En , Cheow Heok K. , Butler Andrew J. , Buscombe John R.
Published: June 2023

Multivisceral transplant (MVTx) refers to a composite graft from a cadaveric donor, which often includes the liver, the pancreaticoduodenal complex, and small intestine transplanted en bloc. It remains rare and is performed in specialist centres. Post-transplant complications are reported at a higher rate in multivisceral transplants because of the high levels of immunosuppression used to prevent rejection of the highly immunogenic intestine. In this study, we analyzed the clinical utility of 28 18F-FDG PET/CT scans in 20 multivisceral transplant recipients in whom previous non-functional imaging was deemed clinically inconclusive. The results were compared with histopathological and clinical follow-up data. In our study, the accuracy of 18F-FDG PET/CT was determined as 66.7%, where a final diagnosis was confirmed clinically or via pathology. Of the 28 scans, 24 scans (85.7%) directly affected patient management, of which 9 were related to starting of new treatments and 6 resulted in an ongoing treatment or planned surgery being stopped. This study demonstrates that 18F-FDG PET/CT is a promising technique in identifying life-threatening pathologies in this complex group of patients. It would appear that 18F-FDG PET/CT has a good level of accuracy, including for those MVTx patients suffering from infection, post-transplant lymphoproliferative disease, and malignancy.
Analytical Validation and Clinical Utilization of the Oncomine Comprehensive Assay Plus Panel for Comprehensive Genomic Profiling in Solid Tumors
Authors: Dumur Catherine I. , Krishnan Ramakrishnan , Almenara Jorge A. , Brown Kathleen E. , Dugan Kailyn R. , Farni Christiana , Ibrahim Fatima Z. , Sanchez Naomi A. , Rathore Sumra , Pradhan Dinesh , Hughes Jonathan H.
Published: June 2023

The detection of driver oncogenic variants and the recent identification of tumor-agnostic genomic biomarkers has driven the use of comprehensive genomic profiling (CGP) for disease diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment selection. The Oncomine™ Comprehensive Assay Plus (OCA+) panel uses DNA and RNA to detect single nucleotide variants (SNVs), small insertions/deletions (Indels), and structural variants (SVs) across 501 genes. Moreover, microsatellite instability (MSI), tumor mutational burden (TMB), and homologous recombination deficiency (HRD) status are assessed in a single workflow. Herein, we present the analytical validation and clinical utilization of OCA+. By using commercial reference materials, we found good analytical sensitivity, specificity, and precision for all biomarkers analyzed. The limit of detection (LoD) was validated for SNVs and Indels at 4%, except for Indels located in homopolymeric regions, where the LoD was 10%. An additional set of 81 tumor samples, including cytology smears, were sequenced to assess the clinical utility of the OCA+ across different tumor types. Among the clinical cohort, OCA+ demonstrated 100% accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity for all biomarkers analyzed, except for MSI assessment of endometrial cancer cases, where 83% accuracy and 67% sensitivity were achieved, compared to PCR and IHC. The validation of accuracy and robustness of this assay supports the OCA+’s utility for solid tumor CGP.
Positive and Negative Performance Analysis of the Bi-Directional Full-Flow Pump with an “S” Shaped Airfoil
Authors: Jiao Haifeng , Wang Mengcheng , Liu Haiyu , Chen Songshan
Published: June 2023

In this study, model tests and numerical simulations are conducted to study the bi-directional full-flow pump (BFFP). Firstly, the head, efficiency and shaft power of the BFFP are significantly higher in the positive operating condition than in the negative operating condition. When the unit operates in the positive direction, the clearance reflux flow rate, the flow uniformity and velocity-weighted average angle of the impeller inlet, and the intensity of pressure pulsation are significantly greater than those during the negative operation. When the pump unit is operating at low flow rates, the clearance reflux produces a significant disturbance to the impeller inlet main flow. Two vortices appear in the near-wall area of the clearance outlet (i.e., impeller inlet), and the range of vortices is larger in the positive operation than in the negative operation. Secondly, at low-flow and design-flow conditions, the total entropy production of the pump unit in the positive direction is greater than that in the negative direction. When at small- and design-flow rates, the amplitude of pressure pulsation in the positive direction is smaller than that in the negative direction. This study will contribute to the research and development of a full-flow pump.
The Effect of Relative Advantage, Top Management Support and IT Infrastructure on E-Filing Adoption
Authors: AbuAkel Samer Aqel , Ibrahim Marhaiza
Published: June 2023

Electronic filing (e-filing) adoption for tax income purposes is limited in developing countries as the practices of financial accounting and reporting, as well as digitalization in accounting systems, are more prevalent in developed countries. This paper investigates the determinants of e-filing usage in the context of emerging economies such as Jordan. Building on the Technology–Organization–Environment framework (TOE), the study proposes that the effects of relative advantage, top management support, and IT infrastructure as new variables on e-filing adoption and trust in the e-filing systems are positive. The study also proposes that trust in the e-filing system affects e-filing adoption and mediates the influence of relative advantage, top management support, and IT infrastructure on e-filing adoption. Data were collected from 315 respondents and analyzed via Smart PLS. Relative advantage and top management were found to affect the adoption of and trust in e-filing. In addition, trust in the e-filing system affects e-filing adoption and mediates the impact of relative advantage and top management support for e-filing. Therefore, decision-makers should develop a mechanism to increase trust and the benefits of using e-filing for income tax purposes.
Developing a Multidimensional Financial Inclusion Index: A Comparison Based on Income Groups
Authors: Gharbi Inès , Kammoun Aïda
Published: June 2023

The aim of our paper is to construct a multidimensional financial inclusion (FI) index to measure the level of FI in 91 countries across different income groups. In order to address our research problem, we use the principal component analysis method. This approach addresses the criticism of the arbitrary selection of weights and reflects the degree of financial inclusion in depth. The data are drawn from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) Financial Access Survey (FAS), the World Development Indicators (World Bank) and the Global Findex Database during the period of 2004–2020. This paper is the first to consider so many indicators of financial inclusion (13 indicators), belonging to three different dimensions of FI, in order to take into account the maximum number of aspects related to this concept. In addition, unlike previous work, this paper considers both developing and developed countries, which makes it possible to identify differences between them. The proposed index has some advantages. First, it is robust, comparable across countries and has good predictive power in tracking household microeconomic indicators (accounts and savings). It is also well correlated with macroeconomic variables such as literacy rate, poverty, GINI index, real interest rate and employers. Second, our results clearly show that, as a country’s income level grows higher, its level of financial inclusion also grows higher.
Drought Stress Responses of Some Prairie Landscape C4 Grass Species for Xeric Urban Applications
Authors: Kazemi Fatemeh , Jozay Mansoure , Salahshoor Farzaneh , van Etten Eddie , Rezaie Sahar
Published: June 2023

Creating xeric landscapes in lawns and prairies is a significant challenge and practical need in arid urban environments. This study examined the drought resistance of some C4 grass species for constructing urban lawns and prairies. A factorial experiment based on randomized complete block designs with four replications was conducted. Experimental treatments were two irrigation levels (100% and 50% Field Capacity (FC)) and five warm-season grass species (Andropogon gerardii Vitman, Sorghastrum nutans (L.) Nash, Panicum virgatum L., Schizachyrium scoparium (Michx.) Nash, and Bouteloua curtipendula (Michx.) Torr.). The effects of drought on physiological, morphological, and qualitative characteristics of the grass species were analyzed. Drought conditions induced a decrease in all the measured traits. However, fewer physiological, morphological, and qualitative characteristics were affected by drought stress on Andropogon gerardii, Schizachyrium scoparium, and Bouteloua curtipendula, compared to the other two species. Overall, warm-season grasses of Andropogon gerardii, Schizachyrium scoparium, and Bouteloua curtipendula, had greater adaptability to drought stress, making them promising C4 grass species for prairie or lawn landscaping in arid urban environments. Landscape professionals and decision-makers should consider using Andropogon gerardii, Schizachyrium scoparium, and Bouteloua curtipendula, as these were the most resilient grass species for drought-tolerant prairie landscaping schemes. Sorghastrum nutans and Panicum virgatum may be used as a second priority if a more diverse variety of grasses is required for drought-resilient prairie or lawn landscaping in arid cities.
2-(5,6-Diphenyl-1,2,4-Triazin-3-yl)pyridinium Dichloroiodate (I)
Authors: Aragoni M. Carla , Lippolis Vito , Mancini Annalisa , Pintus Anna , Podda Enrico , Orton James B. , Coles Simon J. , Arca Massimiliano
Published: June 2023

2-(5,6-diphenyl-1,2,4-triazin-3-yl)pyridinium dichloroiodate (I) (1) was synthesized by reacting 3-(2-pyridyl)-5,6-diphenyl-1,2,4-triazine with ICl in dichloromethane solution. The structural characterization of 1 by SC-XRD analysis was accompanied by elemental analysis, FT-IR, and FT-Raman spectroscopy measurements.
Molecular Dynamics Study on the Mechanism of Gallium Nitride Radiation Damage by Alpha Particles
Authors: Liu Yang , Xiong Zhenpeng , Ouyang Xiaoping
Published: June 2023

In special applications in nuclear reactors and deep space environments, gallium nitride detectors are subject to irradiation by α-particles. Therefore, this work aims to explore the mechanism of the property change of GaN material, which is closely related to the application of semiconductor materials in detectors. This study applied molecular dynamics methods to the displacement damage of GaN under α-particle irradiation. A single α-particle-induced cascade collision at two incident energies (0.1 and 0.5 MeV) and multiple α-particle injections (by five and ten incident α-particles with injection doses of 2 × 1012 and 4 × 1012 ions/cm2, respectively) at room temperature (300 K) were simulated by LAMMPS code. The results show that the recombination efficiency of the material is about 32% under 0.1 MeV, and most of the defect clusters are located within 125 Å, while the recombination efficiency of 0.5 MeV is about 26%, and most of the defect clusters are outside 125 Å. However, under multiple α-particle injections, the material structure changes, the amorphous regions become larger and more numerous, the proportion of amorphous area is about 27.3% to 31.9%, while the material’s self-repair ability is mostly exhausted.
The Effect of Boron (B) and Copper (Cu) on the Microstructure and Graphite Morphology of Spheroidal Graphite Cast Iron
Authors: Ha Jin-Su , Hong Ji-Woo , Kim Ji-Wook , Han Soo-Bin , Choi Chang-Young , Song Hye-Jin , Jang Jin-Seok , Kim Dong-Yul , Ko Dae-Cheol , Yi Seong-Hoon , Cho Yong-Jae
Published: June 2023

This study examines the impacts of copper and boron in parts per million (ppm) on the microstructure and mechanical properties of spheroidal graphite cast iron (SCI). Boron’s inclusion increases the ferrite content whereas copper augments the stability of pearlite. The interaction between the two significantly influences the ferrite content. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) analysis indicates that boron alters the enthalpy change of the α + Fe3C → γ conversion and the α → γ conversion. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) analysis confirms the locations of copper and boron. Mechanical property assessments using a universal testing machine show that the inclusion of boron and copper decreases the tensile strength and yield strength of SCI, but simultaneously enhances elongation. Additionally, in SCI production, the utilization of copper-bearing scrap and trace amounts of boron-containing scrap metal, especially in the casting of ferritic nodular cast iron, offers potential for resource recycling. This highlights the importance of resource conservation and recycling in advancing sustainable manufacturing practices. These findings provide critical insights into the effects of boron and copper on SCI’s behavior, contributing to the design and development of high-performance SCI materials.
Solidification Behavior of Fe-6.5Si Alloy Powder for AM-SLM Processing, as Assessed by Differential Scanning Calorimetry
Authors: Steiner Petrovič Darja , Donik Črtomir , Paulin Irena , Godec Matjaž , Vončina Maja , Petrun Martin
Published: June 2023

Lab-scale investigations on the processing of small powder volumes are of special importance for applications in additive manufacturing (AM) techniques. Due to the technological importance of high-silicon electrical steel, and the increasing need for optimal near-net-shape AM processing, the aim of this study was to investigate the thermal behavior of a high-alloy Fe-Si powder for AM. An Fe-6.5wt%Si spherical powder was characterized using chemical, metallographic, and thermal analyses. Before thermal processing, the surface oxidation of the as-received powder particles was observed by metallography and confirmed by microanalysis (FE-SEM/EDS). The melting, as well as the solidification behavior of the powder, was evaluated using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). Due to the remelting of the powder, a significant loss of silicon occurred. The morphology and microstructure analyses of the solidified Fe-6.5wt%Si revealed the formation of needle-shaped eutectics in a ferrite matrix. The presence of a high-temperature phase of silica was confirmed by the Scheil–Gulliver solidification model for the ternary model Fe-6.5wt%Si-1.0wt%O alloy. In contrast, for the binary model Fe-6.5wt%Si alloy, thermodynamic calculations predict the solidification exclusively with the precipitation of b.c.c. ferrite. The presence of high-temperature eutectics of silica in the microstructure is a significant weakness for the efficiency of the magnetization processes of soft magnetic materials from the Fe-Si alloy system.
Changes in the Phase Composition of Calcium Aluminoferrites Based on the Synthesis Condition and Al2O3/Fe2O3 Molar Ratio
Authors: Pyzalski Michał , Brylewski Tomasz , Sujak Agnieszka , Durczak Karol
Published: June 2023

The presented work concerns the study of the changes in the phase composition of calcium aluminoferrites which depend on the synthesis conditions and the selection of the Al2O3/Fe2O3 molar ratio (A/F). The A/F molar ratio extends beyond the limiting composition of C6A2F (6CaO·2Al2O3·Fe2O) towards phases richer in Al2O3. An increase in the A/F ratio above unity favours the formation of other crystalline phases such as C12A7 and C3A, in addition to calcium aluminoferrite. Slow cooling of melts characterised by an A/F ratio below 0.58, results in the formation of a single calcium aluminoferrite phase. Above this ratio, the presence of varying contents of C12A7 and C3A phases was found. The process of rapid cooling of the melts with an A/F molar ratio approaching the value of four favours the formation of a single phase with variable chemical composition. Generally, an increase in the A/F ratio above the value of four generates the formation of a calcium aluminoferrite amorphous phase. The rapidly cooled samples with compositions of C22.19A10.94F and C14.61A6.29F were fully amorphous. Additionally, this study shows that as the A/F molar ratio of the melts decreases, the elemental cell volume of the calcium aluminoferrites decreases.
The Wrinkles Characterization in GFRP Composites by Infrared Active Thermography
Authors: Stawiarski Adam , Chwał Małgorzata , Barski Marek , Augustyn Marcin
Published: June 2023

An experimental study has been carried out to assess the effectiveness of infrared thermography in wrinkle detection in composite GFRP (Glass Fiber Reinforced Plastic) structures by infrared active thermography. Wrinkles in composite GFRP plates with different weave patterns (twill and satin) have been manufactured with the use of the vacuum bagging method. The different localization of defects in laminates has been taken into account. Transmission and reflection measurement techniques of active thermography have been verified and compared. The section of a turbine blade with a vertical axis of rotation containing post-manufacturing wrinkles has been prepared to verify active thermography measurement techniques in the real structure. In the turbine blade section, the influence of a gelcoat surface on the effectiveness of thermography damage detection has also been taken into account. Straightforward thermal parameters applied in structural health monitoring systems allow an effective damage detection method to be built. The transmission IRT setup allows not only for damage detection and localization in composite structures but also for accurate damage identification. The reflection IRT setup is convenient for damage detection systems coupled with nondestructive testing software. In considered cases, the type of fabric weave has negligible influence on the quality of damage detection results.
Corrosion Risk to Metal-Based Artefacts in a Scientific and Technical Museum: An Assessment of Environmental and Exhibition Conditions
Authors: Molina María Teresa , Cano Emilio , Llorente Irene , Ramírez-Barat Blanca
Published: June 2023

Materials such as wood, textiles, or plastics that are part of the exhibition system in museums are known to emit pollutants such as organic acids. Scientific and technical objects that include these materials in their composition can themselves be a potential source of emissions, which, together with inappropriate humidity and temperature conditions, can lead to corrosion of the metallic parts. In this work, we have studied the corrosivity of different locations in two venues of the Spanish National Museum of Science and Technology (MUNCYT). Coupons of the most representative metals from the collection were placed in different showcases and rooms for 9 months. The corrosion of the coupons has been evaluated in terms of the rate of mass gain, colour changes and characterisation of the corrosion products. The results were correlated to the relative humidity and concentration of gaseous pollutants to determine which metals are most susceptible to corrosion. The results show that metal artefacts exposed in showcases have a higher risk of corrosion than those exposed directly in the room, and that some pollutants are emitted by the artefacts. The corrosivity of the museum environment is low for copper, brass, and aluminium in most locations; however, some placements present a higher aggressivity for steel and lead, due to the high humidity and the presence of organic acids.
Transmission-Reflection-Integrated Multifunctional Passive Metasurface for Entire-Space Electromagnetic Wave Manipulation
Authors: Zhang Shunlan , Cao Weiping , Wu Tiesheng , Wang Jiao , Li Heng , Duan Yanliang , Rong Haoyu , Zhang Yulong
Published: June 2023

In recent years, many intriguing electromagnetic (EM) phenomena have come into being utilizing metasurfaces (MSs). However, most of them operate in either transmission or reflection mode, leaving the other half of the EM space completely unmodulated. Here, a kind of transmission-reflection-integrated multifunctional passive MS is proposed for entire-space electromagnetic wave manipulation, which can transmit the x-polarized EM wave and reflect the y-polarized EM wave from the upper and lower space, respectively. By introducing an H-shaped chiral grating-like micro-structure and open square patches into the unit, the MS acts not only as an efficient converter of linear-to-left-hand circular (LP-to-LHCP), linear-to-orthogonal (LP-to-XP), and linear-to-right-hand circular (LP-to-RHCP) polarization within the frequency bands of 3.05–3.25, 3.45–3.8, and 6.45–6.85 GHz, respectively, under the x-polarized EM wave, but also as an artificial magnetic conductor (AMC) within the frequency band of 12.6–13.5 GHz under the y-polarized EM wave. Additionally, the LP-to-XP polarization conversion ratio (PCR) is up to −0.52 dB at 3.8 GHz. To discuss the multiple functions of the elements to manipulate EM waves, the MS operating in transmission and reflection modes is designed and simulated. Furthermore, the proposed multifunctional passive MS is fabricated and experimentally measured. Both measured and simulated results confirm the prominent properties of the proposed MS, which validates the design’s viability. This design offers an efficient way to achieve multifunctional meta-devices, which may have latent applications in modern integrated systems.
The Displacements Study of Birch Veneer Layers from Composition of Plywood during Water Jet Cutting Using the Finite Element Method (FEA)
Authors: Dumitrascu Dorin-Ion , Rusu Alexandru-Nicolae , Dumitrascu Adela-Eliza
Published: June 2023

This paper presents a study of the deformations of the birch veneer layer of plywood composed of veneer sheets, each with a thickness of 1.4 mm. Displacements in the longitudinal and transverse directions were analyzed in each layer of veneer from the composition of the board. Cutting pressure was applied to the surface equal to the diameter of the water jet, located in the center of the laminated wood board. Finite element analysis (FEA) does not study the breaking of the material or its elastic deformation, but only what happens from a static point of view when maximum pressure acts on the board, which causes detachment of the veneer particles. The results of the finite element analysis indicate maximum values of 0.0012 mm in the longitudinal direction of the board located in the proximity of the application of the maximum force of the water jet. Additionally, in order to analyze the recorded differences between both longitudinal and transversal displacements, estimation of statistical parameters with 95% confidence intervals (CI) was applied. The comparative results indicate that the differences are not significant for the displacements under study.