bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ETV6::ABL1-Positive Myeloid Neoplasm: A Case of a Durable Response to Imatinib Mesylate without Additional or Previous Treatment
Authors: Bochicchio Maria Teresa , Marconi Giovanni , Baldazzi Carmen , Bandini Lorenza , Ruggieri Francesca , Lucchesi Alessandro , Agostinelli Claudio , Sabattini Elena , Orsatti Agnese , Ferrari Anna , Capirossi Giorgia , Servili Chiara , Ghelli Luserna di Rorà Andrea , Martinelli Giovanni , Simonetti Giorgia , Rosti Gianantonio
Published: December 2023

ETV6::ABL1 rearranged neoplasms are rare hematological diseases. To date, about 80 cases have been reported, including myeloid and lymphoid leukemias. The ETV6 gene codes for an ETS family transcription factor and several fusion partners have been described. When translocated, ETV6 causes the constitutive activation of the partner genes. Here, we report the case of a 54-year-old woman with a cryptic insertion of the 3′ region of ABL1 in the ETV6 gene. The patient was first diagnosed with idiopathic hypereosinophilic syndrome, according to the clinical history, conventional cytogenetics, standard molecular analyses and pathologist description. Next generation sequencing of diagnosis samples unexpectedly detected both ETV6::ABL1 type A and B fusion transcripts, which were then confirmed by FISH. The diagnosis was Myeloid/Lymphoid neoplasm with ETV6::ABL1 fusion, and the patient received imatinib mesylate treatment. In a follow-up after more than one year, the patient still maintained the molecular and complete hematological responses. This case highlights the importance of timely and proper diagnostics and prompt tyrosine kinase inhibitor treatment.
Molecular Basis of Müllerian Agenesis Causing Congenital Uterine Factor Infertility—A Systematic Review
Authors: Dube Rajani , Kar Subhranshu Sekhar , Jhancy Malay , George Biji Thomas
Published: December 2023

Infertility affects around 1 in 5 couples in the world. Congenital absence of the uterus results in absolute infertility in females. Müllerian agenesis is the nondevelopment of the uterus. Mayer–Rokitansky–Küster–Hauser (MRKH) syndrome is a condition of uterovaginal agenesis in the presence of normal ovaries and the 46 XX Karyotype. With advancements in reproductive techniques, women with MA having biological offspring is possible. The exact etiology of MA is unknown, although several genes and mechanisms affect the development of Müllerian ducts. Through this systematic review of the available literature, we searched for the genetic basis of MA. The aims included identification of the genes, chromosomal locations, changes responsible for MA, and fertility options, in order to offer proper management and counseling to these women with MA. A total of 85 studies were identified through searches. Most of the studies identified multiple genes at various locations, although the commonest involved chromosomes 1, 17, and 22. There is also conflicting evidence of the involvement of various candidate genes in the studies. The etiology of MA seems to be multifactorial and complex, involving multiple genes and mechanisms including various mutations and mosaicism.
Leptin-Mediated Induction of IL-6 Expression in Hofbauer Cells Contributes to Preeclampsia Pathogenesis
Authors: Ozmen Asli , Nwabuobi Chinedu , Tang Zhonghua , Guo Xiaofang , Larsen Kellie , Guller Seth , Blas Jacqueline , Moore Monica , Kayisli Umit A. , Lockwood Charles J. , Guzeloglu-Kayisli Ozlem
Published: December 2023

Leptin plays a crucial role in regulating energy homoeostasis, neuroendocrine function, metabolism, and immune and inflammatory responses. The adipose tissue is a main source of leptin, but during pregnancy, leptin is also secreted primarily by the placenta. Circulating leptin levels peak during the second trimester of human pregnancy and fall after labor. Several studies indicated a strong association between elevated placental leptin levels and preeclampsia (PE) pathogenesis and elevated serum interleukin-6 (IL-6) levels in PE patients. Therefore, we hypothesized that a local increase in placental leptin production induces IL-6 production in Hofbauer cells (HBCs) to contribute to PE-associated inflammation. We first investigated HBCs-specific IL-6 and leptin receptor (LEPR) expression and compared their immunoreactivity in PE vs. gestational age-matched control placentas. Subsequently, we examined the in vitro regulation of IL-6 as well as the phosphorylation levels of intracellular signaling proteins STAT3, STAT5, NF-κB, and ERK1/2 by increasing recombinant human leptin concentrations (10 to 1000 ng/mL) in primary cultured HBCs. Lastly, HBC cultures were incubated with leptin ± specific inhibitors of STAT3 or STAT5, or p65 NF-κB or ERK1/2 MAPK signaling cascades to determine relevant cascade(s) involved in leptin-mediated IL-6 regulation. Immunohistochemistry revealed ~three- and ~five-fold increases in IL-6 and LEPR expression, respectively, in HBCs from PE placentas. In vitro analysis indicated that leptin treatment in HBCs stimulate IL-6 in a concentration-dependent manner both at the transcriptional and secretory levels (p < 0.05). Moreover, leptin-treated HBC cultures displayed significantly increased phosphorylation levels of STAT5, p65 NF-κB, and ERK1/2 MAPK and pre-incubation of HBCs with a specific ERK1/2 MAPK inhibitor blocked leptin-induced IL-6 expression. Our in situ results show that HBCs contribute to the pathogenesis of PE by elevating IL-6 expression, and in vitro results indicate that induction of IL-6 expression in HBCs is primarily leptin-mediated. While HBCs display an anti-inflammatory phenotype in normal placentas, elevated levels of leptin may transform HBCs into a pro-inflammatory phenotype by activating ERK1/2 MAPK to augment IL-6 expression.
Enhancement of Immune Functions by Limosilactobacillus reuteri KBL346: In Vitro and In Vivo Studies
Authors: Park Chanseop , Ji Seon Yeong , Hwangbo Hyun , Shin Seung-yeon , Kim Min Yeong , Lee Kiuk , Kim Da Hye , Cho Bo-Ram , Lee Hyesook , Choi Yung Hyun , You Hyun Ju
Published: December 2023

Lactobacilli have been widely used as probiotics because of their benefits for intestinal health and physiological functions. Among a variety of Lactobacillus genera, Limosilactobacillus reuteri has been studied for its ability to exert anti-inflammatory functions and its role in controlling metabolic disorders, as well as the production of the antimicrobial compound reuterin. However, the effects and mechanisms of L. reuteri on enhancing immune responses in the immunosuppressed states have been relatively understudied. In this study, we isolated an immunomodulatory strain, namely, L. reuteri KBL346 (KBL346), from a fecal sample of a 3-month-old infant in Korea. We evaluated the immunostimulatory activity and hematopoietic function of KBL346 in macrophages and cyclophosphamide (CPA)-induced immunosuppressed mice. KBL346 increased the phagocytic activity against Candida albicans MYA-4788 in macrophages, and as biomarkers for this, increased secretions of nitric oxide (NO) and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) were confirmed. Also, the secretions of innate cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6) were increased. In CPA-induced immunosuppressed mice, KBL346 at a dosage of 1010 CFU/kg protected against spleen injury and suppressed levels of immune-associated parameters, including NK cell activity, T and B lymphocyte proliferation, CD4+ and CD8+ T cell abundance, cytokines, and immunoglobulins in vivo. The effects were comparable or superior to those in the Korean red ginseng positive control group. Furthermore, the safety assessment of KBL346 as a probiotic was conducted by evaluating its antibiotic resistance, hemolytic activity, cytotoxicity, and metabolic characteristics. This study demonstrated the efficacy and safety of KBL346, which could potentially be used as a supplement to enhance the immune system.
Genetic Alterations of NF-κB and Its Regulators: A Rich Platform to Advance Colorectal Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment
Authors: Alipourgivi Faranak , Motolani Aishat , Qiu Alice Y. , Qiang Wenan , Yang Guang-Yu , Chen Shuibing , Lu Tao
Published: December 2023

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third leading cause of cancer mortality in the United States, with an estimated 52,000 deaths in 2023. Though significant progress has been made in both diagnosis and treatment of CRC in recent years, genetic heterogeneity of CRC—the culprit for possible CRC relapse and drug resistance, is still an insurmountable challenge. Thus, developing more effective therapeutics to overcome this challenge in new CRC treatment strategies is imperative. Genetic and epigenetic changes are well recognized to be responsible for the stepwise development of CRC malignancy. In this review, we focus on detailed genetic alteration information about the nuclear factor (NF)-κB signaling, including both NF-κB family members, and their regulators, such as protein arginine methyltransferase 5 (PRMT5), and outer dynein arm docking complex subunit 2 (ODAD2, also named armadillo repeat-containing 4, ARMC4), etc., in CRC patients. Moreover, we provide deep insight into different CRC research models, with a particular focus on patient-derived xenografts (PDX) and organoid models, and their potential applications in CRC research. Genetic alterations on NF-κB signaling components are estimated to be more than 50% of the overall genetic changes identified in CRC patients collected by cBioportal for Cancer Genomics; thus, emphasizing its paramount importance in CRC progression. Consequently, various genetic alterations on NF-κB signaling may hold great promise for novel therapeutic development in CRC. Future endeavors may focus on utilizing CRC models (e.g., PDX or organoids, or isogenic human embryonic stem cell (hESC)-derived colonic cells, or human pluripotent stem cells (hPSC)-derived colonic organoids, etc.) to further uncover the underpinning mechanism of these genetic alterations in NF-κB signaling in CRC progression. Moreover, establishing platforms for drug discovery in dishes, and developing Biobanks, etc., may further pave the way for the development of innovative personalized medicine to treat CRC in the future.
Importance of Sanitation for Stored-Product Pest Management
Authors: Bingham Georgina V. , Hagstrum David W.
Published: December 2023

Sanitation is essential for the cost-effective pest management of stored-product insects. The Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act of 1938 led to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) tightening regulatory standards, and many local surveys, courses and conferences were organized to prepare the industry for these new regulations. Sanitation removes insects and residual food, which may also provide shelter for insects, with heat treatments and insecticide applications. The number of insects removed by cleaning may be reduced as the number of available hiding places increases. Decreased sanitation negatively affects the efficacy of most other pest management practices, with means of 1.3- to 17-fold decreases in efficacy. The majority of studies quantifying the efficacy of sanitation have been performed on the farm storage of grain, but some studies have been conducted for grain elevators, food processing, and the marketing system. Results ranged from no effect of sanitation alone to very effective alone or with other methods. Sanitation can also reduce insect infestation prior to harvest. Some cost–benefit analyses have been conducted for sanitation.
What Accelerates the Choice of Mobile Banking for Digital Banks in Indonesia?
Authors: Sebayang Toto Edrinal , Hakim Dedi Budiman , Bakhtiar Toni , Indrawan Dikky
Published: December 2023

The recent COVID-19 pandemic has led to changes in business, technology, and social interactions, creating a new normal that has important implications for the role of technology, including mobile banking services that offer safer and more hygienic payment methods than cash. Innovations in mobile banking services have been considered to have the ability to provide unbanked customers with better access in growing markets such as Indonesia, which still has a huge unbanked population of 100 million people. This study evaluates the driving factors of mobile banking adoption by 1441 banking customers among major digital banks in Indonesia. Data collected between September 2022 and March 2023 were examined using PLS-SEM with Smart PLS 4.0.9.6. This study extends the Decomposed Theory of Planned Behavior (DTPB) framework by including Disease Risk, Trust, Firm Reputation, Perceived Risk, Performance Risk, Privacy Risk, Financial Risk, Psychological Risk, Time Risk, and Disease Risk. The findings show that Trust, Attitude, Perceived Behavior Control, Perceived Risk, Psychological Risk, and Disease Risk play a significant role in respondents’ intention to adopt mobile banking services. In contrast, Subjective Norm, Firm Reputation, Performance Risk, Privacy Risk, Financial Risk, and Time Risk had lower impacts. The findings suggest that users choose mobile banking over cash as a safety measure. As a result, banks must prioritize their mobile banking innovations tailored to personalized user experience to deepen engagement, with easy-to-use navigation that fits the lifestyles, values, and needs of banking customers.
The Effect of Congruency and Frequency of Exposures on the Learning of L2 Binomials
Authors: Altamimi Abdulaziz , Conklin Kathy
Published: December 2023

Although extensive research has been carried out on opaque formulaic language where the meaning is not the sum of the individual words (i.e., idioms and many collocations), it is still not clear how cross-language congruency and frequency of exposure influence the learning of transparent formulaic language in an L2. In the current study, self-paced reading along with offline word order recognition tasks were used to investigate the role of cross-language congruency and the frequency of exposure on the learning and processing of fully transparent binomials. In the self-paced reading, Arabic second language learners of English and native English speakers encountered three types of binomial phrases either two or five times in English texts: English-only binomials, Arabic-only binomials that were translated into English, and congruent binomials (acceptable in English and Arabic). A subsequent offline task revealed that both native and non-native speakers developed knowledge of the ‘correct’ order of binomials (i.e., fish and chips, not chips and fish) after only two exposures in the self-paced reading. Native speakers were more accurate on congruent and English-only items than Arabic-only items, while non-natives speakers exhibited no differences in accuracy across the binomial types. The offline task showed that native speakers responded faster to congruent and English-only items than Arabic-only, and non-native speakers responded faster to congruent items than English-only and Arabic-only. The frequency of exposure had no effect, with no difference in response times and accuracy between two and five exposures.
Deformation Mechanisms of Magnesium Alloys with Rare-Earth and Zinc Additions under Plane Strain Compression
Authors: Zeng Xun , Yi Sangbong
Published: December 2023

The introduction of rare-earth (RE) elements into magnesium (Mg) alloys can significantly improve their ductility, thereby extending the applications of Mg products. However, the impacts of their chemical composition, temperature and processing methods on the mechanical properties of Mg products are highly debatable. In this work, we systematically investigate the deformation behaviors of Mg–Nd and Mg–Zn–Nd alloys using electron backscattered diffraction (EBSD) characterization. The samples were deformed to different stress levels to study the microstructure and texture development during channel die compression. The results reveal that the room temperature formability of the Mg–Nd alloy can be enhanced with the addition of Zn. This is attributed to the higher activities of prismatic slip and tensile twinning in the Mg–Zn–Nd alloy as compared to the binary counterpart, facilitating strain accommodation. When the strain increases, the growing and merging of the same twin variant rapidly consumes the parent grain, which is responsible for the texture modification from the transverse to the basal direction. At elevated temperatures, the twinning is suppressed in both alloys due to the decreased critical resolved shear stress of the non-basal slip systems. Additionally, an obvious sigmoidal yielding phenomenon is observed due to the multiple activation of the different deformation modes. These findings offer valuable insights into the evolution of the microstructure and texture during plane strain compression, elucidating the connections between material chemical composition, processing and mechanical properties, which are important for the advancement of Mg alloy application.
High-Performance Electrochromic Devices Based on Size-Controlled 2D WO3 Nanosheets Prepared Using the Intercalation Method
Authors: Li Cheng-Ai , Ko Boemjin , Park Kwang-Hyun , Ahn Jae-Gyu , Park Taeyoung , Lee Dong-Ju , Song Sung-Ho
Published: December 2023

It is difficult to obtain ultrathin two-dimensional (2D) tungsten trioxide (WO3) nanosheets through direct exfoliation from bulk WO3 in solution due to the strong bonding between interlayers. Herein, WO3 nanosheets with controllable sizes were synthesized via K+ intercalation and the exfoliation of WO3 powder using sonication and temperature. Because of the intercalation and expansion in the interlayer distance, the intercalated WO3 could be successfully exfoliated to produce a large quantity of individual 2D WO3 nanosheets in N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone under sonication. The exfoliated ultrathin WO3 nanosheets exhibited better electrochromic performance in an electrochromic device than WO3 powder and exfoliated WO3 without intercalation. In particular, the prepared small WO3 nanosheets exhibited excellent electrochromic properties with a large optical modulation of 41.78% at 700 nm and fast switching behavior times of 9.2 s for bleaching and 10.5 s for coloring. Furthermore, after 1000 cycles, the small WO3 nanosheets still maintained 86% of their initial performance.
Synthesis of Multicolor Carbon Dots Catalyzed by Inorganic Salts with Tunable Nonlinear Optical Properties
Authors: Niu Xiaoqing , Hou Ruipeng , Zhang Luo , Gao Hongli , Hu Junzhou
Published: December 2023

The nonlinear optical properties of carbon dots have been in the spotlight in recent years. In light of the complexity and diversity of factors affecting the nonlinear optical properties of carbon dots, how to reveal the origin and physical mechanism of the nonlinear optical properties of carbon dots accurately has become a problem. In this work, a template-free method was designed to prepare carbon dots via solid-phase reaction with phloroglucinol as a single carbon source and sodium bisulfate as the catalyst. This method is simple, green, safe, and easy to be prepared on a large scale. Three carbon dots with different luminous colors were obtained by simply adjusting the reaction temperature. The rise of reaction temperature affects the surface functional groups, and then hinders the luminescence of surface states, leading to the change of luminescence properties. The nonlinear optical properties of carbon dots were analyzed by the Z-scan technique. Surprisingly, all carbon dots have nonlinear optical responses, but there are differences in performance. Results prove the increase in sp2 domains may contribute to the significant improvement of the nonlinear optical properties of carbon dots, indicating a direction to improve the nonlinear optical properties of carbon dots.
Study on the Combined Effect of Municipal Solid Waste Incineration Bottom Ash and Waste Shingle in Hot Mix Asphalt
Authors: Park Kyungwon , Golestani Behnam , Nam Boo Hyun , Hou Juan , Eun Jongwan
Published: December 2023

This study investigated the positive effect of the combined use of recycled asphalt shingles (RASs) and municipal solid waste incineration (MSWI) bottom ash (B.A.) in asphalt concrete, which contributes to enhanced sustainability in pavement engineering. In addition, unlike traditional approaches that employ individual recycling material in hot mix asphalt (HMA), the combined use of the two waste materials maximizes the mechanical performance of the asphalt mixture. The addition of RAS (with 30–40% aged binder) as an additive generally enhances the strength/stiffness of the asphalt mixture. The high porosity/absorption of MSWI BA results in an additional amount of liquid asphalt binder in the mixture. As an admixture, RAS could supply the additional asphalt binder in the mixture when MSWI BA is used as an aggregate replacement. This research was conducted in two phases: (1) to examine the effect of MSWI BA alone and its optimal asphalt content (OAC), and (2) to assess the combined effect of B.A. and RAS in HMA. Multiple laboratory testing methods were employed for the mechanical performance investigation, including the Marshall stability test, rutting test, and indirect tensile test. The testing results show that the 20% B.A. replacement exhibits the best performance and that it requires an additional asphalt binder of 1.1%. For the combined use of MSWI BA and RAS, 5% RAS shows the best mechanical performance. All mixtures that contain the B.A. and RAS show greater strength than the control specimen (regular HMA).
Optimization of the Shape of Hooked-End Steel Fiber Based on Pulling Out and Reinforcing Cementitious Composites
Authors: Wang Xiaowei , Xu Bo , Luan Kuiliang , Mu Ru , Chen Jiao
Published: December 2023

Efficient steel fiber—reinforced cementitious composites (SFRCC) should improve not only the ultimate tensile strength but also the residual tensile strength (post-cracking tensile strength) of the SFRCC matrix. The degradation of the post-cracking tensile strength of SFRCC depends on the pullout properties of the steel fibers from the cementitious matrix. When the straight steel fiber was pulled out from the matrix, the pullout resistance was affected by the actions of bonding and friction. After debonding, the load was transferred only by friction, and the pullout resistance decreased rapidly, resulting in a weak reinforcing effect. In addition, changing the fiber shape can effectively slow down the decreasing rate of the pullout resistance of the steel fibers, thus improving their reinforcing effects. In this study, the shape of the steel fibers was optimized to slow down the decrease in the pullout resistance of the steel fibers from the cementitious matrix, thus achieving better tensile properties of SFRCC. First, a calculation model for the steel fiber pullout resistance was established. On this basis, a method to optimize the shape of the steel fibers was proposed. Finally, the pulling out behavior of steel fibers with different end hook shapes was tested, and the influence of the steel fiber shape on the decreasing rate of the residual pullout resistance was analyzed. The results showed that the optimized hooked-end steel fibers had better pullout resistance than ordinary hooked end steel fibers of the same diameter, tensile strength, and matrix.
Research on the Type Synthesis of a Regular Hexagonal Prism Rubik’s Cube Mechanism
Authors: Fan Dabao , Zeng Daxing , Tan Weijian , Lu Wenjuan , Liu Haitao , Hou Yulei
Published: December 2023

The Rubik’s Cube mechanism (RCM) is a kind of reconfigurable mechanism with multiple characteristics such as multiple configurations, variable topology, strong coupling, and reconfigurability. Crossover research on the RCM with mathematics, chemistry, cryptography, and other disciplines has led to important breakthroughs and progress. It is obvious that the invention and creation of a new RCM can provide important ideological inspiration and theoretical guidance for the accelerated iterative updating of Rubik’s Cube products and the expansion of their applications. This paper investigates the type synthesis method for a regular hexagonal prism (RHP) RCM (RHPRCM). Through analysis of the reconfigurable movement process of the RCM, two mechanism factors are abstracted, a type synthesis process for the RHPRCM is proposed, a symmetry layout method for the RCM’s revolute axis based on the RHP space polyhedron is proposed, and an analysis method for the intersection of the revolute pair contact surfaces (RPCSs) based on the adjacency matrix is proposed. Taking a revolute axis passing through the center of an RHP and having only one RPCS for each revolute axis as an example, an RHPRCM with different topological structures is synthesized. The relevant research in this paper can provide methodological guidance for the synthesis of other spatial RCMs.
Improving Model-Free Control Algorithms Based on Data-Driven and Model-Driven Approaches: A Research Study
Authors: Guo Ziwei , Yang Huogen
Published: December 2023

Given the challenges associated with accurately modeling complex nonlinear systems with time delays in industrial processes, this paper introduces an advanced model-free control algorithm that combines data-driven and model-driven approaches. Initially, an enhanced algorithm for multi-innovation model-free control, incorporating error feedback, is presented based on the error feedback principle. Subsequently, a novel control strategy is introduced by delving into PID neural network (NN) recognition and control theory, merging PID NN control with multi-innovation feedback control. Through meticulous mathematical derivation, the proposed strategy is proven to ensure system stability. Compared with traditional NN PID controllers, the convergence rate of the proposed scheme is 50 s faster and the steady-state errors are limited to ±1.
Optimal Tilt-Wing eVTOL Takeoff Trajectory Prediction Using Regression Generative Adversarial Networks
Authors: Yeh Shuan-Tai , Du Xiaosong
Published: December 2023

Electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft have attracted tremendous attention nowadays due to their flexible maneuverability, precise control, cost efficiency, and low noise. The optimal takeoff trajectory design is a key component of cost-effective and passenger-friendly eVTOL systems. However, conventional design optimization is typically computationally prohibitive due to the adoption of high-fidelity simulation models in an iterative manner. Machine learning (ML) allows rapid decision making; however, new ML surrogate modeling architectures and strategies are still desired to address large-scale problems. Therefore, we showcase a novel regression generative adversarial network (regGAN) surrogate for fast interactive optimal takeoff trajectory predictions of eVTOL aircraft. The regGAN leverages generative adversarial network architectures for regression tasks with a combined loss function of a mean squared error (MSE) loss and an adversarial binary cross-entropy (BC) loss. Moreover, we introduce a surrogate-based inverse mapping concept into eVTOL optimal trajectory designs for the first time. In particular, an inverse-mapping surrogate takes design requirements (including design constraints and flight condition parameters) as input and directly predicts optimal trajectory designs, with no need to run design optimizations once trained. We demonstrated the regGAN on optimal takeoff trajectory designs for the Airbus A3 Vahana. The results revealed that regGAN outperformed reference surrogate strategies, including multi-output Gaussian processes and conditional generative adversarial network surrogates, by matching simulation-based ground truth with 99.6% relative testing accuracy using 1000 training samples. A parametric study showed that a regGAN surrogate with an MSE weight of one and a BC weight of 0.01 consistently achieved over 99.5% accuracy (denoting negligible predictive errors) using 400 training samples, while other regGAN models require at least 800 samples.
Multipoint Lock-in Detection for Diamond Nitrogen-Vacancy Magnetometry Using DDS-Based Frequency-Shift Keying
Authors: Hu Qidi , Cheng Luheng , Liu Yushan , Zhu Xinyi , Tian Yu , Xu Nanyang
Published: December 2023

In recent years, the nitrogen-vacancy (NV) center in diamonds has been demonstrated to be a high-performance multiphysics sensor, where a lock-in amplifier (LIA) is often adopted to monitor photoluminescence changes around the resonance. It is rather complex when multiple resonant points are utilized to realize a vector or temperature-magnetic joint sensing. In this article, we present a novel scheme to realize multipoint lock-in detection with only a single-channel device. This method is based on a direct digital synthesizer (DDS) and frequency-shift keying (FSK) technique, which is capable of freely hopping frequencies with a maximum of 1.4 GHz bandwidth and encoding an unlimited number of resonant points during the sensing process. We demonstrate this method in experiments and show it would be generally useful in quantum multi-frequency excitation applications, especially in the portable and highly mobile cases.
Recent Advances in Assessing the Clinical Implications of Epstein-Barr Virus Infection and Their Application to the Diagnosis and Treatment of Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma
Authors: Yoshizaki Tomokazu , Kondo Satoru , Dochi Hirotomo , Kobayashi Eiji , Mizokami Harue , Komura Shigetaka , Endo Kazuhira
Published: December 2023

Reports about the oncogenic mechanisms underlying nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) have been accumulating since the discovery of Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) in NPC cells. EBV is the primary causative agent of NPC. EBV–host and tumor–immune system interactions underlie the unique representative pathology of NPC, which is an undifferentiated cancer cell with extensive lymphocyte infiltration. Recent advances in the understanding of immune evasion and checkpoints have changed the treatment of NPC in clinical settings. The main EBV genes involved in NPC are LMP1, which is the primary EBV oncogene, and BZLF1, which induces the lytic phase of EBV. These two multifunctional genes affect host cell behavior, including the tumor–immune microenvironment and EBV behavior. Latent infections, elevated concentrations of the anti-EBV antibody and plasma EBV DNA have been used as biomarkers of EBV-associated NPC. The massive infiltration of lymphocytes in the stroma suggests the immunogenic characteristics of NPC as a virus-infected tumor and, at the same time, also indicates the presence of a sophisticated immunosuppressive system within NPC tumors. In fact, immune checkpoint inhibitors have shown promise in improving the prognosis of NPC patients with recurrent and metastatic disease. However, patients with advanced NPC still require invasive treatments. Therefore, there is a pressing need to develop an effective screening system for early-stage detection of NPC in patients. Various modalities, such as nasopharyngeal cytology, cell-free DNA methylation, and deep learning-assisted nasopharyngeal endoscopy for screening and diagnosis, have been introduced. Each modality has its advantages and disadvantages. A reciprocal combination of these modalities will improve screening and early diagnosis of NPC.
Intersociety Position Statement on the Prevention of Ophthalmia Neonatorum in Italy
Authors: Tzialla Chryssoula , Auriti Cinzia , Aversa Salvatore , Merazzi Daniele , Martinelli Stefano , Araimo Gabriella , Massenzi Luca , Cavallaro Giacomo , Gagliardi Luigi , Giuffrè Mario , Mosca Fabio , Cetin Irene , Trojano Vito , Valensise Herbert , Colacurci Nicola , Orfeo Luigi , Mondì Vito ,   on behalf of their respective Scientific Societies
Published: December 2023

There is currently no worldwide agreement on the real need to administer conjunctival antibiotics to neonates at birth to prevent neonatal conjunctivitis (usually defined as ophthalmia neonatorum) by Chlamydia trachomatis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae. Therefore, there is wide variability in antibiotic administration, conditioned mainly by the social and health context. In Italy, a law enacted in 1940 required doctors and midwives to administer ophthalmic prophylaxis with 2% silver nitrate to all newborns at birth. This law was repealed in 1975 and since then there has been no clear guidance on the use of ophthalmia neonatorum prophylaxis at birth. Since neonatal conjunctivitis caused by C. trachomatis and N. gonorrhoeae is not reported, we carried out a nationwide survey of 1,041,384 neonates across all Italian birth centers to evaluate the incidence of ophthalmia neonatorum and the current practice of prophylaxis. After analyzing the results, we formulated an intersociety position statement on the prevention of ophthalmia neonatorum to update and standardize this prevention strategy in Italy.
Editorial for Special Issue “Envisioning the Future of Mining”
Authors: Menéndez-Aguado Juan M. , Restrepo Baena Oscar Jaime , Smith Jessica M.
Published: December 2023

According to the International Energy Agency, clean energy transitions significantly increase strategic minerals demand [...]
Finite Element In-Depth Verification: Base Displacements of a Spherical Dome Loaded by Edge Forces and Moments
Authors: Terzi Vasiliki G. , Makarios Triantafyllos K.
Published: December 2023

Nowadays, engineers possess a wealth of numerical packages in order to design civil engineering structures. The finite element method offers a variety of sophisticated element types, nonlinear materials, and solution algorithms, which enable engineers to confront complicated design problems. However, one of the difficult tasks is the verification of the produced numerical results. The present paper deals with the in-depth verification of a basic problem, referring to the axisymmetric loading by edge forces/moments of a spherical dome, truncated at various roll-down angles, φo. Two formulations of analytical solutions are derived by the bibliography; their results are compared with those produced by the implementation of the finite element method. Modelling details, such as the finite element type, orientation of joints, application of loading, boundary conditions, and results’ interpretation, are presented thoroughly. Four different ratios of the radius of curvature, r and shell’s thickness, and t are examined in order to investigate the compatibility between the implementation of the finite element method to the “first-order” shell theory. The discussion refers to the differences not only between the numerical and analytical results, but also between the two analytical approaches. Furthermore, it emphasizes the necessity of contacting even linear elastic preliminary verification numerical tests as a basis for the construction of more elaborated and sophisticated models.
Optimization Conditions of Malachite Green Adsorption onto Almond Shell Carbon Waste Using Process Design
Authors: Chouli Faiza , Ezzat Abdelrahman Osama , Sabantina Lilia , Benyoucef Abdelghani , Zehhaf Abdelhafid
Published: December 2023

Almond shell-based biocarbon is a cheap adsorbent for the removal of malachite green, which has been investigated in this work. FT-IR, DRX, and BET were used to characterize almond shell-based biocarbon. The nitrogen adsorption-desorption isotherms analysis results showed a surface area of 120.21 m2/g and a type H4 adsorption isotherm. The parameters of initial dye concentration (5–600 mg.L−1), adsorbent mass (0.1–0.6 mg), and temperature (298–373 K) of adsorption were investigated. The experiments showed that the almond shell could be used in a wide concentration and temperature range. The adsorption study was fitted to the Langmuir isotherm and the pseudo-second-order kinetic model. The results of the FT-IR analysis demonstrated strong agreement with the pseudo-second-order chemisorption process description. The maximum adsorption capacity was calculated from the Langmuir isotherm and evaluated to be 166.66 mg.g−1. The positive ∆H (12.19 J.mol−1) indicates that the adsorption process is endothermic. Almond shell was found to be a stable adsorbent. Three different statistical design sets of experiments were taken out to determine the best conditions for the batch adsorption process. The optimal conditions for MG uptake were found to be adsorbent mass (m = 0.1 g), initial dye concentration (C0 = 600 mg.L−1), and temperature (T = 25 °C). The analysis using the D-optimal design showed that the model obtained was important and significant, with an R2 of 0.998.
Influence of Equatorial Co-Ligands on the Reactivity of LFeIIIOIPh
Authors: Lakk-Bogáth Dóra , Pintarics Dénes , Török Patrik , Kaizer József
Published: December 2023

Previous biomimetic studies clearly proved that equatorial ligands significantly influence the redox potential and thus the stability/reactivity of biologically important oxoiron intermediates; however, no such studies were performed on FeIIIOIPh species. In this study, the influence of substituted pyridine co-ligands on the reactivity of iron(III)-iodosylbenzene adduct has been investigated in sulfoxidation and epoxidation reactions. Selective oxidation of thioanisole, cis-cyclooctene, and cis- and trans-stilbene in the presence of a catalytic amount of [FeII(PBI)3](OTf)2 with PhI(OAc)2 provide products in good to excellent yields through an FeIIIOIPh intermediate depending on the co-ligand (4R-Py) used. Several mechanistic studies were performed to gain more insight into the mechanism of oxygen atom transfer (OAT) reactions to support the reactive intermediate and investigate the effect of the equatorial co-ligands. Based on competitive experiments, including a linear free-energy relationship between the relative reaction rates (logkrel) and the σp (4R-Py) parameters, strong evidence has been observed for the electrophilic character of the reactive species. The presence of the [(PBI)2(4R-Py)FeIIIOIPh]3+ intermediates and the effect of the co-ligands was also supported by UV-visible measurements, including the color change from red to green and the hypsochromic shifts in the presence of co-ligands. This is another indication that the title iron(III)-iodosylbenzene adduct is able to oxygenate sulfides and alkenes before it is transformed into the oxoiron form by cleavage of the O−I bond.
The Anticancer Effects of Marine Carotenoid Fucoxanthin through Phosphatidylinositol 3-Kinase (PI3K)-AKT Signaling on Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Cells
Authors: Ahmed Shade’ A. , Mendonca Patricia , Messeha Samia S. , Oriaku Ebenezer T. , Soliman Karam F. A.
Published: December 2023

Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is an aggressive subtype of breast cancer that lacks specific targets such as estrogen, progesterone, and HER2 receptors. TNBC affects one in eight women in the United States, making up 15–20% of breast cancer cases. Patients with TNBC can develop resistance to chemotherapy over time, leading to treatment failure. Therefore, finding other options like natural products is necessary for treatment. The advantages of using natural products sourced from plants as anticancer agents are that they are less toxic, more affordable, and have fewer side effects. These products can modulate several cellular processes of the tumor microenvironment, such as proliferation, migration, angiogenesis, cell cycle arrest, and apoptosis. The phosphatidyl inositol 3-kinase (PI3K)-AKT signaling pathway is an important pathway that contributes to the survival and growth of the tumor microenvironment and is associated with these cellular processes. This current study examined the anticancer effects of fucoxanthin, a marine carotenoid isolated from brown seaweed, in the MDA-MB-231 and MDA-MB-468 TNBC cell lines. The methods used in this study include a cytotoxic assay, PI3K-AKT signaling pathway PCR arrays, and Wes analysis. Fucoxanthin (6.25 µM) + TNF-α (50 ng/mL) and TNF-α (50 ng/mL) showed no significant effect on cell viability compared to the control in both MDA-MB-231 and MDA-MB-468 cells after a 24 h treatment period. PI3K-AKT signaling pathway PCR array studies showed that in TNF-α-stimulated (50 ng/mL) MDA-MB-231 and MDA-MB-468 cells, fucoxanthin (6.25 µM) modulated the mRNA expression of 12 genes, including FOXO1, RASA1, HRAS, MAPK3, PDK2, IRS1, EIF4EBP1, EIF4B, PTK2, TIRAP, RHOA, and ELK1. Additionally, fucoxanthin significantly downregulated the protein expression of IRS1, EIF4B, and ELK1 in MDA-MB-231 cells, and no change in the protein expression of EIF4B and ELK1 was shown in MDA-MB-468 cells. Fucoxanthin upregulated the protein expression of RHOA in both cell lines. The modulation of the expression of genes and proteins of the PI3K-AKT signaling pathway may elucidate fucoxanthin’s effects in cell cycle progression, apoptotic processes, migration, and proliferation, which shows that PI3K-AKT may be the possible molecular mechanism for fucoxanthin’s effects. In conclusion, the results obtained in this study elucidate fucoxanthin’s molecular mechanisms and indicate that fucoxanthin may be considered a promising candidate for breast cancer-targeted therapy.
Effects of Silybum marianum L. Seed Extracts on Multi Drug Resistant (MDR) Bacteria
Authors: El-Sapagh Shimaa , Allam Nanis G. , El-Sayed Mohamed Nour El-Dein , El-Hefnawy Asmaa Ahmed , Korbecka-Glinka Grażyna , Shala Awad Y.
Published: December 2023

Wound infections became a great challenge, especially after the emergence of bacterial resistance to commonly used antibiotics. Medicinal plants can be the source of alternative antibacterial agents effective against multi drug resistant (MDR) bacteria. This research aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of different Silybum marianum seed extracts in fighting MDR bacteria that infect wounds. First, thirty purified bacterial cultures obtained from superficial, infected wounds were subjected to antibiotic sensitivity tests. The selected MDR isolates were then used to test the antimicrobial effects of different S. marianum seed extracts. The most potent extract was evaluated for its impact on the ultrastructure of the cells of sensitive bacterial isolates using transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The bioactive ingredients of this extract were analyzed by means of gas chromatography–mass spectroscopy (GC–MS). Then, in-silico absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion, and toxicity (ADMET) properties were predicted for the main components. The results indicated that four out of 30 bacterial isolates were considered MDR bacteria. Primary morphological features of colonies, secondary (automatic) identification using the Biomerieux Vitek 2 System, and 16S rRNA sequencing of the four isolates confirmed that they represent Staphylococcus aureus, Stenotrophomonas maltophilia, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Escherichia coli. Among different extracts of S. marianum seeds, ethanol extract showed the strongest inhibitory effect on both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, with minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values between 9.375 and 1.172 mg/mL. However, at concentrations four times higher, this extract was unable to kill bacterial cells, indicating that it had a bacteriostatic effect on the tested MDR strains. TEM revealed denaturation and distorted cell ultrastructure in S. aureus and S. maltophilia after exposure to ethanol extract. In addition, GC–MS analysis of the ethanol extract identified nine compounds known to have important biological activities, and ADMET analysis showed good drug-likeness for two of these compounds. Consequently, S. marianum seeds could be a good source of alternative bacteriostatic agents effective against MDR bacterial strains that cause wound infections.
Antiallergic Activity of 3-O-Dodecyl-l-ascorbic Acid
Authors: Koga Takeru , Kawahara Naoaki , Aburada Mei , Ono Asako , Mae Shiori , Yoshida Aina , Iwaoka Yuji , Ito Hideyuki , Tai Akihiro
Published: December 2023

2-O-Alkyl-l-ascorbic acids and 3-O-alkyl-l-ascorbic acids were synthesized, and their degranulation inhibitory activities were evaluated. Among ascorbic acid derivatives with butyl, octyl, dodecyl, hexadecyl, and octadecyl groups introduced at the C-2 or C-3 positions, an AA derivative with a dodecyl group introduced at the C-3 position, 3-O-dodecyl-l-ascorbic acid (compound 8), showed the strongest inhibitory activity against antigen-stimulated degranulation. Compound 8 also inhibited calcium ionophore-stimulated degranulation. Compound 11, in which the hydroxyl group at the C-6 position of compound 8 was substituted with an amino group, and compound 12, in which the dodecyloxy group at the C-3 position of compound 8 was exchanged with a dodecylamino group, were synthesized, and these derivatives showed weaker inhibitory activity against antigen-stimulated degranulation than that of compound 8. In addition, orally administered compound 8 inhibited passive cutaneous anaphylaxis reactions in mice with a potency equal to that of oxatomide, an antiallergic agent. These results suggest that compound 8 may be a candidate for antiallergic treatment.
B Vitamins, Glucoronolactone and the Immune System: Bioavailability, Doses and Efficiency
Authors: Munteanu Camelia , Schwartz Betty
Published: December 2023

The present review deals with two main ingredients of energy/power drinks: B vitamins and glucuronolactone and their possible effect on the immune system. There is a strong relationship between the recommended daily dose of selected B vitamins and a functional immune system. Regarding specific B vitamins: (1) Riboflavin is necessary for the optimization of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the fight against bacterial infections caused by Staphylococcus aureus and Listeria monocytogenes. (2) Niacin administered within normal doses to obese rats can change the phenotype of skeletal fibers, and thereby affect muscle metabolism. This metabolic phenotype induced by niacin treatment is also confirmed by stimulation of the expression of genes involved in the metabolism of free fatty acids (FFAs) and oxidative phosphorylation at this level. (3) Vitamin B5 effects depend primarily on the dose, thus large doses can cause diarrhea or functional disorders of the digestive tract whereas normal levels are effective in wound healing, liver detoxification, and joint health support. (4) High vitamin B6 concentrations (>2000 mg per day) have been shown to exert a significant negative impact on the dorsal root ganglia. Whereas, at doses of approximately 70 ng/mL, sensory symptoms were reported in 80% of cases. (5) Chronic increases in vitamin B12 have been associated with the increased incidence of solid cancers. Additionally, glucuronolactone, whose effects are not well known, represents a controversial compound. (6) Supplementing with D-glucarates, such as glucuronolactone, may help the body’s natural defense system function better to inhibit different tumor promoters and carcinogens and their consequences. Cumulatively, the present review aims to evaluate the relationship between the selected B vitamins group, glucuronolactone, and the immune system and their associations to bioavailability, doses, and efficiency.