Comparison of shear bond strength of composite resin, compomer, and resin-modified glass-ionomer cements in primary teeth: An in-vitro study

OBJECTIVE

The contemporary esthetic restorative materials such as composite resin and glass-ionomer cements and their modifications have all been developed keeping in mind the requirements of permanent teeth. There have been plenty of studies that have focused on the characteristics of these materials in relation to permanent teeth with a relative dearth of such studies as regard to the primary teeth. The present study was undertaken to compare and evaluate the shear bond strength of composite resin, compomer, and resin-modified glass-ionomer cements in primary teeth.

METHODS

Thirty non-carious primary molars that were indicated for extraction because of physiological resorption or, for orthodontic reasons, were selected. The selected teeth were randomly allocated to three groups of 10 each for composite, compomer, and resin-modified glass-ionomer cements. The enamel from the occlusal surface of all teeth was removed to expose the superficial dentin and was wet polished with 400 grit sand paper. Composite, compomer, and resin-modified glass-ionomer stubs were bonded on to the occlusal surfaces using a plastic tube as a template. All samples were, then, subjected to thermocycling and evaluation of shear bond strength using the universal testing machine at a cross-head speed of 0.5 mm/min, whereas the results obtained were subjected to statistical analysis. Statistical analysis was performed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 17.0 (SPSS Inc., Chicago, IL, USA), whereas one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Tukey's multiple post-hoc procedures were used for statistical analysis. A P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

RESULTS

The mean shear bond strength values for Groups I, II, and III were found to be 11.7 ± 3.07 MPa, 7.74 ± 4.16 Mpa, and 4.43 ± 2.08 Mpa, respectively, whereas one-way ANOVA and Tukey's multiple post-hoc procedures indicated that there were remarkable differences among the three groups with the results being statistically significant (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Composite resin showed the highest shear bond strength in relation to primary dentin when compared to compomer and resin-modified glass-ionomer cements.

Comprehensive review of environmental factors influencing the performance of photovoltaic panels: Concern over emissions at various phases throughout the lifecycle

Recently, solar photovoltaic (PV) technology has shown tremendous growth among all renewable energy sectors. The attractiveness of a PV system depends deeply of the module and it is primarily determined by its performance. The quantity of electricity and power generated by a PV cell is contingent upon a number of parameters that can be intrinsic to the PV system itself, external or environmental. Thus, to improve the PV panel performance and lifetime, it is crucial to recognize the main parameters that directly influence the module during its operational lifetime. Among these parameters there are numerous factors that positively impact a PV system including the temperature of the solar panel, humidity, wind speed, amount of light, altitude and barometric pressure. On the other hand, the module can be exposed to simultaneous environmental stresses such as dust accumulation, shading and pollution factors. All these factors can gradually decrease the performance of the PV panel. This review not only provides the factors impacting PV panel's performance but also discusses the degradation and failure parameters that can usually affect the PV technology. The major points include: 1) Total quantity of energy extracted from a photovoltaic module is impacted on a daily, quarterly, seasonal, and yearly scale by the amount of dust formed on the surface of the module. 2) Climatic conditions as high temperatures and relative humidity affect the operation of solar cells by more than 70% and lead to a considerable decrease in solar cells efficiency. 3) The PV module current can be affected by soft shading while the voltage does not vary. In the case of hard shadowing, the performance of the photovoltaic module is determined by whether some or all of the cells of the module are shaded. 4) Compared to more traditional forms of energy production, PV systems offer a significant number of advantages to the environment. Nevertheless, these systems can procure greenhouse gas emissions, especially during the production stages. In conclusion, this study underlines the importance of considering multiple parameters while evaluating the performance of photovoltaic modules. Environmental factors can have a major impact on the performance of a PV system. It is critical to consider these factors, as well as intrinsic and other intermediate factors, to optimize the performance of solar energy systems. In addition, continuous monitoring and maintenance of PV systems is essential to ensure maximum efficiency and performance.

TRAF3IP2-IL-17 Axis Strengthens the Gingival Defense against Pathogens

Recent genome-wide association studies have suggested novel risk loci associated with periodontitis, which is initiated by dysbiosis in subgingival plaque and leads to destruction of teeth-supporting structures. One such genetic locus was the tumor necrosis factor receptor-associated factor 3 interacting protein 2 (TRAF3IP2), a gene encoding the gate-keeping interleukin (IL)-17 receptor adaptor. In this study, we first determined that carriers of the lead exonic variant rs13190932 within the TRAF3IP2 locus combined with a high plaque microbial burden was associated with more severe periodontitis than noncarriers. We then demonstrated that TRAF3IP2 is essential in the IL-17-mediated CCL2 and IL-8 chemokine production in primary gingival epithelial cells. Further analysis suggested that rs13190932 may serve a surrogate variant for a genuine loss-of-function variant rs33980500 within the same gene. Traf3ip2 null mice (Traf3ip2^-/-) were more susceptible than wild-type (WT) mice to the Porphyromonas gingivalis-induced periodontal alveolar bone loss. Such bone loss was associated with a delayed P. gingivalis clearance and an attenuated neutrophil recruitment in the gingiva of Traf3ip2^-/- mice. Transcriptomic data showed decreased expression of antimicrobial genes, including Lcn2, S100a8, and Defb1, in the Traf3ip2^-/- mouse gingiva in comparison to WT mice prior to or upon P. gingivalis oral challenge. Further 16S ribosomal RNA sequencing analysis identified a distinct microbial community in the Traf3ip2^-/- mouse oral plaque, which was featured by a reduced microbial diversity and an overabundance of Streptococcus genus bacteria. More P. gingivalis was observed in the Traf3ip2^-/- mouse gingiva than WT control animals in a ligature-promoted P. gingivalis invasion model. In agreement, neutrophil depletion resulted in more local gingival tissue invasion by P. gingivalis. Thus, we identified a homeostatic IL-17-TRAF3IP2-neutrophil axis underpinning host defense against a keystone periodontal pathogen.

Vulvar Perivascular Epithelioid Cell Tumor: A Case Report of a Rare Neoplasm in an Uncommon Site

Introduction/Objective

Perivascular epithelioid cell tumors (PEComas) are rare mesenchymal neoplasms that arise in a variety of soft tissue and visceral sites. In the female genital tract, PEComas arise in the uterine corpus and are rarely identified outside the uterus, with only a few cases reported in the vulva in the English literature.

Methods/Case Report

We report a case of a 75-year-old African American female, with a history of smoking and type II diabetes, who presented with a painless and mobile introital mass (2.5 cm). Incision and drainage were done, and a curettage sample was submitted for surgical pathology. Histologic features of the lesion revealed nests of epithelioid tumor cells with eosinophilic cytoplasm, round to oval nuclei and prominent nucleoli, in addition to thin-walled capillary vessels between nests of tumor cells. Immunohistochemical stains showed the tumor cells were positive for smooth muscle actin, MiTF, cathepsin-K, and focal MSA. Melan-A showed focal patchy staining. SMARCA4 and INI1 showed normal/retained nuclear staining. The tumor cells were negative for TFE3, vimentin, PAX8, p63, keratin, CK7, CK20, EMA, CK5, desmin, myoglobin, CD45, CD68, CD138, CD163, GATA3, chromogranin, synaptophysin, INSM1, S100 protein, HMB45, SOX10, inhibin, calretinin, CD31, and CD34. The tumor was morphologically and immunophenotypically consistent with PEComa. Complete excision of the lesion showed a 1.2 x 1.0 x 0.6 cm well circumscribed lesion, with no infiltrative borders and clear margins. The morphologic features of the tumor, including the relatively small size with absence of tumor necrosis, vascular invasion, and high mitotic activity favor a benign nature of this PEComa and suggest a low risk of recurrence. Therefore, no additional treatment was indicated.

Results (if a Case Study enter NA)

NA

Conclusion

PEComas are uncommon mesenchymal neoplasms that arise from distinctive perivascular epithelioid cells, typically arranged around blood vessels and usually express combined myomelanocytic immunophenotype. There are only a few reported cases of PEComas in the vulva. Malignant neoplasms tend to be ≥ 5cm and illustrate nuclear atypia, marked pleomorphism, conspicuous mitoses, vascular invasion and infiltrative margins. Based on the gross and microscopic features, the tumor in our case is likely to behave in a benign fashion; however, more studies are needed to further understand the behavior and the pathophysiology of vulvar PEComas.

Real-world application of tumor mutational burden-high (TMB-high) and microsatellite instability (MSI) confirms their utility as immunotherapy biomarkers

Introduction

Microsatellite instability (MSI) testing and tumor mutational burden (TMB) are genomic biomarkers used to identify patients who are likely to benefit from immune checkpoint inhibitors. Pembrolizumab was recently approved by the Food and Drug Administration for use in TMB-high (TMB-H) tumors, regardless of histology, based on KEYNOTE-158. The primary objective of this retrospective study was real-world applicability and use of immunotherapy in TMB/MSI-high patients to lend credence to and refine this biomarker.

Methods

Charts of patients with advanced solid tumors who had MSI/TMB status determined by next generation sequencing (NGS) (FoundationOne CDx) were reviewed. Demographics, diagnosis, treatment history, and overall response rate (ORR) were abstracted. Progression-free survival (PFS) was determined from Kaplan–Meier curves. PFS1 (chemotherapy PFS) and PFS2 (immunotherapy PFS) were determined for patients who received immunotherapy after progressing on chemotherapy. The median PFS2/PFS1 ratio was recorded.

Results

MSI-high or TMB-H [≥20 mutations per megabase (mut/MB)] was detected in 157 adults with a total of 27 distinct tumor histologies. Median turnaround time for NGS was 73 days. ORR for most recent chemotherapy was 34.4%. ORR for immunotherapy was 55.9%. Median PFS for patients who received chemotherapy versus immunotherapy was 6.75 months (95% confidence interval, 3.9-10.9 months) and 24.2 months (95% confidence interval, 9.6 months to not reached), respectively (P = 0.042). Median PFS2/PFS1 ratio was 4.7 in favor of immunotherapy.

Conclusion

This real-world study reinforces the use of TMB as a predictive biomarker. Barriers exist to the timely implementation of NGS-based biomarkers and more data are needed to raise awareness about the clinical utility of TMB. Clinicians should consider treating TMB-H patients with immunotherapy regardless of their histology.

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This retrospective study examined the real-world use of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) in TMB/MSI-high patients with a diverse set of cancer types.

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TMB is an emerging tumor-agnostic biomarker for response to treatment with ICIs that may expand personalized cancer care.

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ICIs remain underutilized as a first-line therapy for TMB/MSI-H patients without specific histologic approval for ICIs.

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The PFS2 to PFS1 ratio was 4.7, favoring immunotherapy over chemotherapy even as a second-line therapy.

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Our study reinforces the real-world evidence that TMB is a valid surrogate marker for MSI and can predict response to ICIs.

Evaluation of Waste Plastic Pyrolysis Oil Performance with Diethyl Ether Additive on Insulated Piston Diesel Engine

Considering the amount of waste plastics has risen significantly, energy may be extracted from it. Not only is it possible to dispose of waste plastics by converting them to fuel, but it is also possible to extract energy from them. Our research is motivated by the prospect of using waste plastics as a source of energy through waste plastic pyrolysis oil (WPPO). The innovation of this research is that it will assess the efficiency of plastic pyrolysis oil derived from Low-Density Polyethylene (LDPE) on a Thermal Barrier Coated (TBC) piston engine. The incremental ratio of WPPO to pure diesel with the addition of diethyl ether (DEE) was determined and its output and exhaust emission standards were evaluated using a direct injection single cylinder low heat rejection diesel engine. The results for the WPPO blends were promising as with TBCW20DEE10 demonstrating a 5 to 15% increase in carbon monoxide under different load conditions. TBCW20DEE10 confirmed a greater reduction of hydrocarbons varying from 5 to 12 %. At half load condition, TBCW20DEE10 emits approximately 3.5 % less unit of smoke.

Effects of branched-chain amino acids on glucose uptake and lactose synthesis rates in bovine mammary epithelial cells and lactating mammary tissue slices

Even though supplementations of essential AA (EAA) are often related to increased lactose yields in dairy cows, underlying mechanisms connecting EAA availability to the mammary glands and lactose synthesis are poorly understood. The objective of this study was to examine the effects of branched-chain AA (BCAA) including Leu, Ile, and Val on (1) glucose transporter (GLUT1) abundance and glucose uptake, (2) the abundance of proteins regulating lactose synthesis pathway, and (3) fractional synthesis rates of lactose (FSR) using bovine mammary epithelial cells (BMEC) and mammary tissues slices (MTS). The BMEC (n = 4) were allocated randomly to regular Dulbecco's Modified Eagle Medium with Ham's F12 (DMEM/F12) media (+EAA) or +EAA deficient (by 90%) in all EAA (-EAA), all BCAA (-BCAA), only Leu (-Leu), only Ile (-Ile) or only Val (-Val). Western immunoblotting analyses, depletion of glucose in media, and a proteomic analysis were performed to determine the abundance of GLUT1 in the cell membrane, net glucose uptake, and the abundance of enzymes involved in lactose synthesis pathway in BMEC, respectively. The MTS (n = 6) were allocated randomly to DMEM/F12 media having all EAA and ¹³C-glucose at concentrations similar to plasma concentrations of cows (+EAA_p), and +EAA_p deprived of all BCAA (-BCAA_p) or only Leu (-Leu_p) for 3 h. The ¹³C enrichments of free glucose pool in MTS (E_Glu-free) and the enrichments of glucose incorporated into lactose in MTS and media [E_{Lactose-bound (T&M)}] were determined and used in calculating FSR. In BMEC, -BCAA increased the fraction of total GLUT1 translocated to the cell membrane and the fraction that was potentially glycosylated compared with +EAA. Among individual BCAA, only -Leu was associated with a 63% increase in GLUT1 translocated to the cell membrane and a 40% increase in glucose uptake of BMEC. The -BCAA tended to be related to a 75% increase in the abundance of hexokinase in BMEC. Deprivation of Leu tended to increase glucose uptake of MTS but did not affect E_Glu-free, E_{Lactose-bound (T&M)}, or FSR relative to +EAA_p. On the other hand, -BCAAp did not affect glucose uptake of MTS but was related to lower E_{Lactose-bound (T&M)}, or FSR relative to +EAA_p. Considering together, decreasing Leu supply to mammary tissues enhances GLUT1 and thus glucose uptake, which, however, does not affect lactose synthesis rates. Moreover, the deficiency of other BCAA, Ile, and Val alone or together with the deficiency of Leu seemed to decrease lactose synthesis rates without affecting glucose uptake. The data also emphasize the importance of addressing the effect of the supply of other nutrients to the mammary glands than the precursor supply in describing the synthesis of a milk component.

Histology Slide Quality Improvement Project Utilizing DMAIC principle of Six Sigma Quality Improvement Methodology

Introduction/Objective

DMAIC (an acronym for Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve and Control) refers to a data- driven improvement cycle used for improving, optimizing, and stabilizing business processes and designs. Our goal was to utilize DMAIC principle of six sigma quality to improve histology slide quality.

Methods/Case Report

We “defined” the problem as suboptimal quality in endometrial biopsy slides (defects). Utilizing the DMAIC principle and adhering to a strict timeline, the defects found during baseline slide quality review were “measured” by linking the defects to specific histology competencies, which were addressed systematically for process improvement (PI). After PI, a follow up review (“improve” and “control” phases) was carried out to identify measurable outcomes as a testament to quality.

Results (if a Case Study enter NA)

During the problem “measurement” phase, the defects found in the baseline review of 175 slides were linked to four specific histology competencies (fixation, embedding, cutting, and staining). Processing was excluded as it is completely automated and standardized. Our analysis showed that 83.3 % of defects were linked to embedding (“tissue too dispersed”). As embedding competency depends on the size and nature of the tissue (e.g. mucus and blood admixed with tissue), grossing competency was also addressed along with embedding at the respective workstations. Recommendations were offered to the grosser, embedder, and cutter to reduce variables during the “improvement” phase. Follow up review was done on 196 slides. The number of defective slides decreased and the defects that linked to “tissue too dispersed” had an overall improvement of 91.3%. Once the PI is proven to be effective, in service to histotechnology personnel biannually were also offered during “control” phase.

Conclusion

We have demonstrated successful methods for improving histology slide quality utilizing DMAIC principle of quality improvement by six sigma methodology DMAIC principle can be creatively adapted in laboratory practice management to enhance quality.

Case of renal cell carcinoma with immunotherapy effect mimicking xanthogranulomatous pyelonephritis

Introduction/Objective

The histologic features of renal cell carcinoma (RCC) after immunotherapy are not fully established. We report the pathologic findings of one case of clear cell RCC after treatment with pembrolizumab which is a humanized monoclonal anti-PD1 antibody.

Methods/Case Report

46-year-old man completed three cycles of pembrolizumab for recurrent basal cell carcinoma. A 5.0 cm mass was incidentally found within left kidney during staging CT scan. He subsequently had left radical nephrectomy. Pathologic examination of nephrectomy specimen identified one 5.0 cm, well-circumscribed, solid mass in the upper pole, confined to the kidney with predominantly hemorrhagic, focally golden-yellow soft cut surface. The remaining parenchyma appears unremarkable. The pelvicalyceal system is not dilated. Sections of tumor show predominance of foamy histiocytes, lymphoplasmacytic infiltrate, and scattered cells having pale or eosinophilic cytoplasm, conspicuous nucleoli and low nuclear: cytoplasm ratio. Cholesterol clefts and hemosiderin deposits are noted. The immunostaining profile highlights areas suspicious for viable tumor cells by using pan-keratin, CK8/18, EMA, CA9 and CD10. Focal positivity in the same area is noted by the stains of PAX 8 and AMACR. However, with numerous histiocytes, it is difficult to determine if the tumor cells are positive for Vimentin. Moreover CD 117 is negative in the tumor cells.

Results (if a Case Study enter NA)

NA

Conclusion

Differential diagnosis includes renal cell carcinoma and xanthogranulomatous pyelonephritis. The overall findings support a clear cell RCC affected by the immunotherapy. With immunotherapy-based combinations becoming standard of care in advanced malignancies, it makes the pathological diagnosis more challenging and difficult, especially for incidental tumors.

Variations in Canal Morphology, Shapes, and Positions of Major Foramen in Maxillary and Mandibular Teeth

Context and Aim:

A plethora of studies have revealed that there is a lack of general consensus in the precise anatomic detailing of the canals and the major foramen in both the maxillary and mandibular teeth while emphasizing the significance of the same for a successful endodontic treatment. The aim of the present study was to determine the variations in canal morphology, shapes, and positions of major foramen in maxillary and mandibular teeth.

Materials and Methods:

In the present study, 420 extracted human maxillary and mandibular teeth with completely formed apices were included. The specimens were cleaned for surface debris including remnants of periodontal tissue and were stored in saline. Examination of the apices was performed with the help of stereomicroscope for their exact shapes and configurations and precise anatomic location. Comparison of different parameters within the group was done using Chi-square test while P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results:

The results of the present study indicated that apical foramen in mandibular teeth showed higher degree of deviation with a prevalence of 70.2% while flat shape of apical foramen was observed only in maxillary teeth. Furthermore, maximum deviation in maxillary teeth was recorded in the canines with a prevalence of 90% while, in mandibular teeth, maximum deviation was recorded with mandibular second premolars with a prevalence of 79.12%.

Conclusions:

The results of the present study revealed that deviation of apical foramen from the root apex was seen in 68.2% of the specimens. Furthermore, deviation was greater in the mandibular than the maxillary teeth.

Comparative Performance of New Surface Roughness Element and Pin fin in Converging Channel for Gas Turbine Application

Thermal performance of a novel surface roughness element, named as Double 45 Dimple (D45D), is compared with pin-fin element in a converging channel with rectangular cross section and presented. The Surface Roughness Element (SRE) is derived by combining protrusion & dimple in a particular fashion such that area available for transfer of heat increases. The objective of this study is to demonstrate the applicability of D45D element channel for trailing edge channel of a typical nozzle guide vane where typically pin-fin element is used. New cooling configuration of Nozzle Guide Vane (NGV) with D45D element is also proposed. All thermal and flow related results are derived using validated CFD approach with EARSM turbulence model for a typical value of Reynolds number. From this investigation, it is found that D45D element provides remarkable improvement in the averaged as well as heat transfer in local region for the corresponding surface which makes it a candidate for trailing edge channel cooling application.

Assessment of the viability of human periodontal ligament cells in black tea, lime juice, and passion fruit concentrate - A comparative in vitro study

Background

Tooth avulsion is considered as a severe form of dental trauma, causing damage to the periodontium. Hence, the preservation of healthy periodontal ligament (PDL) cells in the storage medium are pivotal for the success of replantation.

Aim and Objective

The aim of this study is to assess the viability of human PDL cells in black tea, lime juice, and passion fruit concentrate.

Methods

Human periodontal cells were cultured and stored in three experimental media - black tea, lime juice, and passion fruit concentrate and subjected to 3-(4, 5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2, 5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay for 1 h and the cell viability was determined. Mean and standard deviation were statistically analyzed using one-way analysis of variance to identify the significant groups.

Results

The human PDL cells showed 100% viability in lime juice and passion fruit concentrate, followed by 98% viability in black tea.

Conclusion

Black tea, lime juice, and passion fruit concentrate can be used effectively as storage media for maintaining PDL cells viability in avulsed teeth, with 100% viability exhibited by lime juice and passion fruit concentrate.

Thin niobium and iron–graphene oxide composite metal–organic framework electrodes for high performance supercapacitors

A new composite NbOF–GO and FeOF–GO electrode material was synthesized by the screw-capped pressure tube method for a supercapacitor with specific capacitance values of 599 and 459 F g⁻¹ at current densities of 0.5 and 0.2 A g⁻¹.

Poly(ethylene glycol)–poly(propylene glycol)–poly(ethylene glycol) and polyvinylidene fluoride blend doped with oxydianiline-based thiourea derivatives as a novel and modest gel electrolyte system for dye-sensitized solar cell applications

Unique symmetrical thiourea derivatives with an oxydianiline core were synthesized using cost-effective and simple methods. A new gel electrolyte system was prepared using these thiourea additives along with a highly conductive PEG–PPG–PEG block copolymer, PVDF, and an iodide/triiodide redox couple. The PEG units present in the electrolyte are well-known for their intense segmental motion of ions, which can degrade the recombination rate and favour the charge transfer. The thiourea additives interacted well with the redox couple to limit iodine sublimation and their adsorption induced a negative potential shift for TiO₂. The highest efficiency attained by utilizing such gel polymer electrolytes was 5.75%, especially with 1,1′-(oxybis(4,1-phenylene))bis(3-(6-methylpyridin-2-yl) thiourea) (OPPT), under an irradiation of 100 mW cm⁻². The electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, UV-vis absorption spectroscopy, differential scanning calorimetry, and FTIR spectroscopy data of such gel polymer electrolytes favoured the PCE order of the additives used in DSSCs. The improvement in the DSSC performance with symmetrical thioureas having electron-rich atoms was practically attributed to the reduction of back electron transfer, dye regeneration, and hole transport.

A unique gel polymer electrolyte was prepared using PVDF and PEG–PPG–PEG block copolymer with I⁻/I₃⁻ for DSSC application. This is a cost-effective method used for the synthesis of thiourea additives. The GPE with OPPT thiourea additive achieved a good efficiency of 5.7%.

ANTI-DIABETIC EFFECT OF ETHANOL EXTRACT OF Costus spicatus JACQ. IN RHIZOME EXTRACT IN STREPTOZOTOCIN-INDUCED DIABETIC RATS –HISTOLOGICAL STUDY

Objective: The rats were randomly divided into 5 groups and each group consisted of 6 rats and the duration of treatment was 45 days. Body weight, fasting plasma glucose levels, SGOT, SGPT and ALP levels were measured. Methods: Albino Wistar male rats; 10- weeks old with a bodyweight ranged between 180-250 g were used. Anti-diabetic effect of plant Costus spicatus. In rhizome extract of ethanol extract. Result: The present study clearly indicates in the form of administration of C. spicatus rhizome extract towards glucose fed mice normalizes blood glucose level. Recent studies have revealed induced diabetic rats caused anti-diabetic effects. Histopathological studies of Pancreasin diabetic and treated groups are determined to show the protective action of the ECS. The administration of STZ resulted in a significant increase in plasma glucose level, SGOT, SGPT and ALP along with a reduction in body weight. Conclusion: All these effects were observed on 45th day. ECS and Glibenclamide of STZ induced diabetic animals restored the normal plasma glucose levels and SGOT, SGPT and ALP levels without damaging the pancreas. Keywords:Anti-hypolipidemic, diabetes mellitus, peripheral insulin resistance, pancreatic, STZ.

Compressive three-dimensional super-resolution microscopy with speckle-saturated fluorescence excitation

Nonlinear structured illumination microscopy (nSIM) is an effective approach for super-resolution wide-field fluorescence microscopy with a theoretically unlimited resolution. In nSIM, carefully designed, highly-contrasted illumination patterns are combined with the saturation of an optical transition to enable sub-diffraction imaging. While the technique proved useful for two-dimensional imaging, extending it to three-dimensions is challenging due to the fading of organic fluorophores under intense cycling conditions. Here, we present a compressed sensing approach that allows 3D sub-diffraction nSIM of cultured cells by saturating fluorescence excitation. Exploiting the natural orthogonality of speckles at different axial planes, 3D probing of the sample is achieved by a single two-dimensional scan. Fluorescence contrast under saturated excitation is ensured by the inherent high density of intensity minima associated with optical vortices in polarized speckle patterns. Compressed speckle microscopy is thus a simple approach that enables 3D super-resolved nSIM imaging with potentially considerably reduced acquisition time and photobleaching.

Abstract P6-20-05: Therapeutic targeting of BRCA1 and TP53 mutant breast cancer through mutant p53 reactivation

Triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) is an aggressive subset for which novel therapeutic approaches are needed. A significant proportion of TNBC patients harbor either germline or somatic mutations in BRCA1, or epigenetic silencing of BRCA1, which renders them deficient in DNA repair. Virtually all BRCA1 deficient breast cancers harbor mutations in TP53 suggesting that inactivation of p53 is a requirement for tumor progression in the setting of BRCA1 deficiency. Due to this dependency, we hypothesized that restoring wild type p53 function in BRCA1 deficient breast cancer would be therapeutic. The majority of TP53 mutations are missense, which generate a defective protein that potentially can be targeted with small molecules. Zinc Metallochaperones (ZMCs) are a new class of anti-cancer drugs that reactivate a class of zinc deficient mutant TP53 alleles by restoring zinc binding. Using ZMC1 in human breast cancer cell lines expressing the zinc deficient p53R175H, we demonstrate that loss of BRCA1 sensitizes cells to mutant p53 reactivation. Using genetically engineered murine mammary tumor models with Brca1 deficiency, we demonstrate that ZMC1 significantly improves survival in mice bearing tumors harboring the zinc deficient Trp53R172H allele but not the Trp53 null allele. We synthesized a novel formulation of ZMC1 (Zn-1), in which the drug is made in complex with zinc to improve zinc delivery, and demonstrate that Zn-1 has increased efficacy over ZMC1. Furthermore, we show that ZMC1 plus olaparib is a highly effective combination for tumors expressing the p53R172H mutant. In conclusion, we have validated preclinically a novel therapeutic approach for BRCA1 deficient breast cancer through reactivation of mutant p53.

Citation Format: Na B, Yu X, Wither T, Gilleran J, Yao M, Foo TK, Chen C, Moore D, Xia B, Lin Y, Kimball D, Ganesan S, Carpizo D. Therapeutic targeting of BRCA1 and TP53 mutant breast cancer through mutant p53 reactivation [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 2018 San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium; 2018 Dec 4-8; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2019;79(4 Suppl):Abstract nr P6-20-05.

Abstract P1-15-14: Neoadjuvant liposomal doxorubicin and carboplatin is effective and tolerable for the treatment of triple negative breast cancer

Background: The use of neoadjuvant platinum with taxane for triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) has gained increased attention for improving rates of pathologic complete response (pCR). Our prior trial combining carboplatin (CAR) with liposomal doxorubicin (DOX) for metastatic TNBC showed good response rates with minimal side effects while allowing for greater platinum dosing compared to a taxane combination. We hypothesized that the doublet of DOX+CAR is effective and tolerable in the neoadjuvant setting for TNBC and that tumor genomics may aid in determining those patients most likely to benefit.

Methods: A phase II single arm trial was conducted for patients (pts) diagnosed with stage II-III TNBC. Patients received 4 cycles of neoadjuvant carboplatin (AUC 5) and liposomal doxorubicin (30mg/m2) administered every 28 days, then underwent definitive breast surgery followed by 12 weeks of adjuvant paclitaxel 80 mg/m2 administered weekly. Primary and secondary clinical endpoints were rate of pCR and two year recurrence free survival (RFS) and overall survival (OS), respectively. Cardiac safety of the combination was assessed. Fresh residual tumor samples were obtained at time of surgery for generation of patient derived xenografts (PDX). Tumor genomic profiling was done to determine the mutational spectrum, association of this spectrum in primary tumors with achieving pCR, and identifying alternative treatment strategies for PDX evaluation for patients with resistant disease.

Results: From 2/2015 to 5/2018, 36 pts were enrolled and 32 completed treatment; 4 pts await definitive surgery; 12 (33%) are two years from diagnosis. Median age of the cohort was 53 years. There was high participation by under-represented groups: 23% African American, 20% Asian, 14% Hispanic. Most histologies were invasive ductal but included apocrine, pleomorphic lobular, and metaplastic subtypes. Of the 32 pts who completed surgery, 34% (11) achieved pCR and 64% (23) had clinical response on serial physical exam. At 2 years, there were 2 distant and 1 local recurrence. The most common toxicities during DOX+CAR were grade 1 nausea in 19 pts (53%), grade 3/4 neutropenia occurred in 10 pts (28%); these pts received GCSF support with subsequent cycles; febrile neutropenia occurred in 1 pt (3%) in this group. Grade 3 thrombocytopenia (2 pts), pruritis (1 pt), and mucositis (1 pt) were observed. Only 6 pts (17%) had grade 1 alopecia. There were no delays in treatment due to cardiotoxicity or complications from surgical healing. TP53 (93%), PI3K/PTEN (26.6%), and NOTCH (20%) were the most commonly altered pathways. Structural variants, such as amplifications, rearrangements, and frameshifts were the most frequent alterations detected. Of the 25 pts who had residual disease, PDX was attempted from 14 pts, and 10 (71%) PDX were established, including those for all 3 patients experiencing recurrence.

Conclusion: Neoadjuvant DOX+CAR demonstrated good efficacy and tolerability. Post-chemotherapy PDX is feasible and may help identify targeted approaches for patients with resistant disease. These results warrant further evaluation of this combination for early stage TNBC.

Citation Format: Chan N, Riedlinger GM, Lu S-e, Pham KT, Kirstein LJ, Eladoumikdachi FG, George MA, Potdevin LB, Kowzun MJ, Desai SA, Tang DM, Omene CO, Wong ST, Rodriguez-Rust L, Kumar S, Kearney TJ, Liu C, Ganesan S, Toppmeyer DL, Hirshfield KM. Neoadjuvant liposomal doxorubicin and carboplatin is effective and tolerable for the treatment of triple negative breast cancer [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 2018 San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium; 2018 Dec 4-8; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2019;79(4 Suppl):Abstract nr P1-15-14.

Phytochemical screening and GC–MS analysis of bioactive compounds present in ethanolic leaves extract of Silybum marianum (L)

Objective: To investigate the phytochemicals and GC-MS analysis of ethanol extracts of Silybum marianum. Methods: The air-dried leaves were powdered and subjected to selective sequential extraction using solvents of increasing polarity through percolation, ethanol to obtain an ethanolic extract. Then, each of the extracts was further subjected to gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Results: Qualitative determination of the different biologically active compounds from crude extracts of Silybum marianum using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry revealed different types of high and low molecular weight chemical entities with varying amounts present in each of the extracts. These chemical compounds are considered biologically and pharmacologically important. Conclusions: The study established the chemical composition and anticancer activity of the plant. Keywords: Silybum marianum, Phytochemicals screening, GC–MS analysis, Bioactive compounds.

Generation scheduling with large-scale integration of renewable energy sources using grey wolf optimization

Purpose

Generation scheduling (GS) is the most prominent and hard-hitting problem in the electrical power industry especially in an integrated power system. Countless techniques have been used so far to solve this GS problem for proper functioning of the units in the power system to dispatch the load economically to consumers at once. Therefore, this work aims to study for the best possible function of integrated power plants to obtain the most favourable solution to the GS problem.

Design/methodology/approach

An appropriate method works in a proper way and assures to give the best solution to the GS problem. The finest function of incorporated power plants should be mathematically devised as a problem and via that the aim of the GS problem to minimize the total fuel cost subject to different constraints will be achieved. In this research work, the latest meta-heuristic and swarm intelligence-based technique called grey wolf optimization (GWO) technique is used as an optimization tool that will work along with the formulated problem for correct scheduling of generating units and thus achieve the objective function.

Findings

The recommended GWO technique provides the best feasible solution which is optimal in its performance for different test cases in the GS problem of integrated power plant. It is further found that the obtained solutions using GWO method are better than the former reports of other traditional methods in terms of solution excellence. The GWO method is found to be unique in its performance and having superior computational efficiency.

Practical implications

Decision making is significant for effective operation of integrated power plants in an electrical power system. The recommended tactic implements a modern meta-heuristic procedure that is applied to diverse test systems. The method that is proposed is efficient in providing the best solutions of solving GS problems. The suggested method surpasses the early techniques by offering the most excellent feasible solutions. Thus, it is obvious that the proposed method may be the appropriate substitute to attain the optimal operation of GS problem.

Social implications

Renewable energy sources are discontinuous and infrequent in nature, and it is tough to predict them in general. Further, integrating renewable energy source-based plants with the conventional plant is extremely difficult to operate and maintain. Operation of integrated power system is full of challenges and complications. To handle those complications and challenges, the GWO algorithm is suggested for solving the GS problem and thus obtain the optimal solution in integrated power systems by considering the reserve requirement, load balance, equality and inequality constraints.

Originality/value

The proposed system should be further tested on diverse test systems to evaluate its performance in solving a GS problem and the results should be compared. Computation results reveal that the proposed GWO method is efficient in attaining best solution in GS problem. Further, its performance is effectively established by comparing the result obtained by GWO with other traditional methods.

^{7}Be(n,p)^{7}Li Reaction and the Cosmological Lithium Problem: Measurement of the Cross Section in a Wide Energy Range at n_TOF at CERN

We report on the measurement of the ^{7}Be(n,p)^{7}Li cross section from thermal to approximately 325 keV neutron energy, performed in the high-flux experimental area (EAR2) of the n_TOF facility at CERN. This reaction plays a key role in the lithium yield of the big bang nucleosynthesis (BBN) for standard cosmology. The only two previous time-of-flight measurements performed on this reaction did not cover the energy window of interest for BBN, and they showed a large discrepancy between each other. The measurement was performed with a Si telescope and a high-purity sample produced by implantation of a ^{7}Be ion beam at the ISOLDE facility at CERN. While a significantly higher cross section is found at low energy, relative to current evaluations, in the region of BBN interest, the present results are consistent with the values inferred from the time-reversal ^{7}Li(p,n)^{7}Be reaction, thus yielding only a relatively minor improvement on the so-called cosmological lithium problem. The relevance of these results on the near-threshold neutron production in the p+^{7}Li reaction is also discussed.

Looking beyond drivers and passengers in cancer genome sequencing data

Cancer arises as a result of acquired changes in the DNA sequence of the genome of somatic cells. A subset of the genetic changes, dubbed driver mutations, propels tumor growth, and the remaining changes are passengers, apparently inconsequential for neoplastic transformation. Massive genome sequencing of thousands of tumors from all major cancer types has enabled cataloging of the so-called driver and passenger mutations, and facilitated molecular classification of cancer, guiding precision medicine approach for the patients. Nonetheless, innovative analyses of cancer genomics data has led to novel, sometimes serendipitous findings that have aided to our understanding of other aspects of the biology of the disease and opened up new frontiers. For instance, emerging findings show that mutational patterns in cancer genomes can help detect signatures of known and novel DNA damage and repair processes, provide a likely chronological account of genomic changes in cancer genomes, and allow revisiting the models of cancer evolution. These findings have stimulated original approaches to identify disease etiology, stratify patients, target the disease, and monitor patient responses, complementing driver-mutation centric approaches. In this review, we discuss these emerging approaches and unexpected breakthroughs, and their implications for basic cancer research and clinical practices.

Abstract P4-09-11: Computer extracted features of tumor grade from H&E images predict oncotype DX risk categories for early stage ER+ breast cancer

Introduction: The ODx test is a 21 gene assay that is currently employed for separating Estrogen Receptor positive (ER+) breast cancer patients into low (L) and high (H) risk of recurrence categories, helping clinicians decide if adjuvant chemotherapy is appropriate. In this study, we sought to explore whether computer extracted features pertaining to tumor grade (nuclear pleomorphism, tubule count, mitotic index) in conjunction with a machine learning classifier were predictive of the corresponding ODx risk category for ER+ breast cancer patients.

Design: First, 2000x2000 pixel sub-regions of digitized H&E slides at 40x are processed to both identify and segment epithelial and stromal nuclei using a combination of watershed and deep learning (DL). 247 nuclear features consisting of architecture, shape, and texture features were extracted from these segmentations. Subsequently, the mitotic and tubule related features were extracted at each nuclei candidate using DL detectors. The input to this process was a binary mask computed by thresholding a blue ratio transformed image using Otsu's method. The identified regions were analyzed using DL to determine if a nucleus is a part of a tubule, and/or if it is mitotic. Finally, all of these features were combined, evaluated using Ranksum feature ranking, and then used to generate predictive models using four different supervised machine learning classifiers - random forest, support vector machine, linear discriminant analysis, and a neural network – via a 3-fold cross validation scheme. The classifiers were evaluated by their ability to distinguish between the four different classification tasks presented above using the area (AUC) under the Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curve: 1) L ODx and L mBR grade vs. H ODx and H mBR grade (L-L vs. H-H), 2) L ODx vs. H ODx, 3) L ODx vs. Intermediate (T) and H ODx, 4) L and T ODx vs. H ODx.

Results: The highest performing features were consistently mitosis, epithelial architectural, and tubule features. Classification accuracy ranged from 0.61 (L vs. T and H) to 0.97 (L-L vs. H-H) (Table 1). These features were able to provide the highest level of classification utility for the most distinct cases (L-L vs. H-H) and had less classification accuracy with classification problems involving more difficult T cases.

  Number top 10 Features in each categoryNumber top 10 Features in each categoryNumber top 10 Features in each categoryExperimentMax AUCMitosisTubuleEpithelial ArchitectureL-L vs. H-H (N=36)0.97315L vs. H (N=72)0.77505L vs. T and H (N=125)0.61208L and T vs. H (N=125)0.75505Table 1: Maximum AUC, and best features used to obtain those results.

Conclusion: Computer derived features pertaining to nuclear architecture and mitotic index were predictive of ODx risk categories. Additional independent validation of these findings is needed in a separate test set.

Citation Format: Whitney JR, Romeo-Bucheli D, Janowczyk A, Ganesan S, Feldman M, Gilmore H, Madabhushi A. Computer extracted features of tumor grade from H&E images predict oncotype DX risk categories for early stage ER+ breast cancer [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 2017 San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium; 2017 Dec 5-9; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2018;78(4 Suppl):Abstract nr P4-09-11.

Short-term heat stress causes altered intracellular signaling in oxidative skeletal muscle

Heat stress (HS) causes morbidities and mortalities, in part by inducing organ-specific injury and dysfunction. Further, HS markedly reduces farm animal productivity, and this is especially true for lean tissue accretion. The purpose of this investigation was to determine the extent to which short-term HS caused muscle dysfunction in skeletal muscle. We have previously found increased free radical injury in skeletal muscle following 24 h of HS. Thus, we hypothesized that HS would lead to apoptosis, autophagy, and decreased mitochondrial content in skeletal muscle. To test this hypothesis, crossbred gilts were divided into 3 groups ( = 8/group): thermal neutral (TN: 21°C), HS (37°C), and pair-fed thermal neutral (PFTN: feed intake matched with heat-stressed animals). Following 12 h of treatment, animals were euthanized and red (STR) and white (STW) portions of the semitendinosus were recovered. Heat stress did not alter intracellular signaling in STW. In STR, the oxidative stress marker malondialdehyde protein and concentration were increased in HS ( = 0.007) compared to TN and PFTN, which was matched by an inadequate antioxidant response, including an increase in superoxide dismutase (SOD) I ( = 0.03) and II relative protein abundance ( = 0.008) and total SOD activity ( = 0.02) but a reduction ( = 0.006) in catalase activity in HS compared to TN. Further, B-cell lymphoma 2-associated X protein ( = 0.02) and apoptotic protease activating factor 1 ( = 0.01) proteins were increased by HS compared to TN and PFTN. However, caspase 3 activity was similar between groups, indicating a lack of apoptotic execution. Despite increased initiation, autophagy appeared to be inhibited by HS as the microtubule-associated protein A/B light chain 3 II/I ratio and mitofusin-2 proteins were decreased ( < 0.03) and sequestosome 1(p62) protein abundance was increased ( = 0.001) in HS compared to TN and PFTN. Markers of mitochondrial content cytochrome c, cytochrome c oxidase IV, voltage-dependent anion channel, pyruvate dehydrogenase, and prohibitins 1 were increased ( < 0.05) in HS compared to TN, whereas mitochondrial biogenesis and mitophagy markers were similar between groups. These data demonstrate that HS caused aberrant intracellular signaling, which may contribute to HS-mediated muscle dysfunction.

Hybrid capture-based genomic profiling of circulating tumor DNA from patients with estrogen receptor-positive metastatic breast cancer

BACKGROUND

Genomic changes that occur in breast cancer during the course of disease have been informed by sequencing of primary and metastatic tumor tissue. For patients with relapsed and metastatic disease, evolution of the breast cancer genome highlights the importance of using a recent sample for genomic profiling to guide clinical decision-making. Obtaining a metastatic tissue biopsy can be challenging, and analysis of circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) from blood may provide a minimally invasive alternative.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Hybrid capture-based genomic profiling was carried out on ctDNA from 254 female patients with estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer. Peripheral blood samples were submitted by clinicians in the course of routine clinical care between May 2016 and March 2017. Sequencing of 62 genes was carried out to a median unique coverage depth of 7503×. Genomic alterations (GAs) in ctDNA were evaluated and compared with matched tissue samples and genomic datasets of tissue from breast cancer.

RESULTS

At least 1 GA was reported in 78% of samples. Frequently altered genes were TP53 (38%), ESR1 (31%) and PIK3CA (31%). Temporally matched ctDNA and tissue samples were available for 14 patients; 89% of mutations detected in tissue were also detected in ctDNA. Diverse ESR1 GAs including mutation, rearrangement and amplification, were observed. Multiple concurrent ESR1 GAs were observed in 40% of ESR1-altered cases, suggesting polyclonal origin; ESR1 compound mutations were also observed in two cases. ESR1-altered cases harbored co-occurring GAs in PIK3CA (35%), FGFR1 (16%), ERBB2 (8%), BRCA1/2 (5%), and AKT1 (4%).

CONCLUSIONS

GAs relevant to relapsed/metastatic breast cancer management were identified, including diverse ESR1 GAs. Genomic profiling of ctDNA demonstrated sensitive detection of mutations found in tissue. Detection of amplifications was associated with ctDNA fraction. Genomic profiling of ctDNA may provide a complementary and possibly alternative approach to tissue-based genomic testing for patients with estrogen receptor-positive metastatic breast cancer.

The Abl-1 Kinase is Dispensable for NK Cell Inhibitory Signalling and is not Involved in Murine NK Cell Education

Natural killer (NK) cell responsiveness in the mouse is determined in an education process guided by inhibitory Ly49 and NKG2A receptors binding to MHC class I molecules. It has been proposed that inhibitory signalling in human NK cells involves Abl-1 (c-Abl)-mediated phosphorylation of Crk, lowering NK cell function via disruption of a signalling complex including C3G and c-Cbl, suggesting that NK cell education might involve c-Abl. Mice deficient in c-Abl expression specifically in murine NK cells displayed normal inhibitory and activating receptor repertoires. Furthermore, c-Abl-deficient NK cells fluxed Ca²⁺ normally after triggering of ITAM receptors, killed YAC-1 tumour cells efficiently and showed normal, or even slightly elevated, capacity to produce IFN-γ after activating receptor stimulation. Consistent with these results, c-Abl deficiency in NK cells did not affect NK cell inhibition via the receptors Ly49G2, Ly49A and NKG2A. We conclude that signalling downstream of murine inhibitory receptors does not involve c-Abl and that c-Abl plays no major role in NK cell education in the mouse.