Coated Samples Research Articles

Abstract A057: Cancer-induced epigenomic changes in circulating immune cells enable breast, colorectal and lung cancer detection

Abstract Background: Epigenomic changes via the measurement of 5-hydroxymethylation cytosine (5hmC) in DNA have been shown to enable detection in a variety of cancers including pancreatic and ovarian cancer in plasma-derived cell-free DNA (cfDNA). Here, we investigated whether blood-based 5hmC profiling of genomic DNA (gDNA) derived from cells of the buffy coat (BC) possess signals that enable the detection of breast, colorectal and lung cancers. Method: Blood samples collected in Streck tubes from cancer patients or non-cancer controls were processed to obtain buffy coat and plasma samples. gDNA and cfDNA was isolated from buffy coat and plasma, respectively. gDNA or cfDNA was then subjected to 5hmC enrichment by click chemistry followed by preparation of sequencing libraries. Sequencing was performed to obtain genome-wide 5hmC profiles of buffy coat gDNA and cfDNA samples. Results: Differential hydroxymethylation analysis of BC gDNA revealed increased 5hmC over genes associated with myeloid lineage in breast, colorectal and lung cancers relative to non-cancer controls. Flow cytometry analysis confirmed increases in myeloid cells in cancer samples relative to non-cancer controls. 5hmC patterns in BC gDNA showed a larger number of cancer-associated changes compared to cfDNA, in particular this was found in early-stage disease. 5hmC features from BC gDNA or plasma-derived cfDNA were used to build prediction models that yielded cancer classification with overall sensitivity of 51.3% and 52.6% at 98% specificity, for BC or cfDNA, respectively. For early-stage cancer, the sensitivity at 98% specificity was 46.5% for the BC and 28.2% for cfDNA model. A final prediction model incorporating features from both tissue sources achieved superior classification (65.8% sensitivity) at 98% specificity, compared with using features from either tissue source alone, particularly for early-stage cancer which achieved 53.5% sensitivity of cancer detection. Conclusion: Our results demonstrate that cancer impacts the 5hmC profiles of buffy coat cells which can be leveraged for cancer detection using blood. Citation Format: Gulfem D Guler, Giuliana P Mognol, Yuhong Ning, Carolina Fraire, David Haan, Michael Kesling, Roger Malta, Melissa Peters, Anna Bergamaschi, Tierney Phillips, Shimul Chowdhury, Wayne Volkmuth, Samuel Levy. Cancer-induced epigenomic changes in circulating immune cells enable breast, colorectal and lung cancer detection [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Special Conference: Liquid Biopsy: From Discovery to Clinical Implementation; 2024 Nov 13-16; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Clin Cancer Res 2024;30(21_Suppl):Abstract nr A057.

Abstract A013: Quality control of the biobanked matched tissue: Blood samples for the development of diverse liquid based molecular assays

Abstract The availability of high-quality matched biological samples (tumor-blood) is the major limiting factor for research and development of novel, liquid biopsy-based assays in oncology. Frequently, ongoing specifically timed collections of blood samples are required. De-identified tissue blocks (formalin-fixed, paraffin embedded (FFPE) or flash frozen) matched with patient's blood samples collected in fixative-containing (Streck) of EDTA containing tubes, were collected at worldwide geographic locations and transferred to biobanking facility (Reference Medicine, Phoenix, AZ). Additional blood samples were collected at various times regarding the cancer surgery. Plasma and buffy coat samples were locally prepared and shipped to the biobank. A subset of blood samples without matched tissues from healthy donors were also collected. All samples were shipped under strict transport conditions. Quality control performed at the biobanking facility included pathology review and nucleic acids quality assessment. A total of over 3,000 cases were collected and provided to end-users working on various assays based on cfDNA (e.g. monitoring for minimal residual disease or multi-cancer early detection). Immuno-reactivity to various antigens in samples collected in Streck and EDTA tubes (from 50 patients) was assessed by peptide microarray binding assay. Feedback information on the quality of samples was shared in 900 cases. Approximately 4% of cases had failed internal pathology review, due to poor preservation, lack of adequate tissue composition, or low tumor volume and 11% failed internal nucleic acid quality assessment (DNA concetration and integrity). The blood collection tubes had no significant impact on serologic testing using peptide microarary assay. Customer feedback data showed that overall success rate exceeded 85%. Type of blood collection tubes (Streck vs EDTA) had no impact on serologic testing and studies looking at predicted neoantigens based on NGS data can be confirmed using peptide epitope arrays. Blood collected for NGS works without compromise on peptide arrays. Future validation of other collection tubes for blood or other types of fluids is needed to confirm their adequacy for specific assays. Citation Format: Zoran Gatalica, Phillip Stafford, Chris Diehnelt, Inga Rose. Quality control of the biobanked matched tissue: Blood samples for the development of diverse liquid based molecular assays [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Special Conference: Liquid Biopsy: From Discovery to Clinical Implementation; 2024 Nov 13-16; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Clin Cancer Res 2024;30(21_Suppl):Abstract nr A013.

Effects of Copper Doping on Fluorohydroxyapatite Coating: Analysis of Microstructure, Biocompatibility, Corrosion Resistance, and Cell Adhesion Characteristics.

In this research, Cu-doped fluorohydroxyapatite (Cu-FHAp) coatings containing varying levels of Cu in electrolyte as a dopant were synthesized by the ultrasonic-assisted pulse-reverse electrodeposition method on AZ31 alloy to improve the biocompatibility and corrosion resistance of the alloy for biomedical applications. Microstructural analysis revealed that the inclusion of the Cu dopant results in the formation of a more uniform coating. Energy dispersive spectroscopy analysis highlights a notable incorporation of copper within the fluorohydroxyapatite structure. The increase in Cu content significantly affected surface roughness and elevated hydrophobicity, leading to a contact angle of up to 136°. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy analysis revealed that all samples containing copper exhibited favorable corrosion resistance, with the sample prepared using the electrolyte containing 0.036 g/L Cu(NO3)2 demonstrating the highest corrosion resistance. Cell adhesion evaluation yielded a satisfactory cell adhesion to the coated samples, indicating that the presence of the optimum value of Cu does not induce considerable cytotoxic effects.

Ultra-Pressurized Deposition of Hydrophobic Chitosan Surface Coating on Wood for Fungal Resistance.

Fungi (Neolentinus lepideus, Nl, and Trametes versicolor, Tv) impart wood rot, leading to economic and environmental issues. To overcome this issue, toxic chemicals are commonly employed for wood preservation, impacting the environment and human health. Surface coatings based on antimicrobial chitosan (CS) of high molar mass (145 × 105 Da) were tested as wood preservation agents using an innovative strategy involving ultra-pressurizing CS solutions to deposit organic coatings on wood samples. Before coating deposition, the antifungal activity of CS in diluted acetic acid (AcOOH) solutions was evaluated against the rot fungi models Neolentinus lepideus (Nl) and Trametes versicolor (Tv). CS effectively inhibited fungal growth, particularly in solutions with concentrations equal to or higher than 0.125 mg/mL. Wood samples (Eucalyptus sp. and Pinus sp.) were then coated with CS under ultra-pressurization at 70 bar. The polymeric coating deposition on wood was confirmed through X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images, and water contact angle measurements. Infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) spectra of the uncoated and coated samples suggested that CS does not penetrate the bulk of the wood samples due to its high molar mass but penetrates in the surface pores, leading to its impregnation in wood samples. Coated and uncoated wood samples were exposed to fungi (Tv and Nl) for 12 weeks. In vivo testing revealed that Tv and Nl fungi did not grow on wood samples coated with CS, whereas the fungi proliferated on uncoated samples. CS of high molar mass has film-forming properties, leading to a thin hydrophobic film on the wood surface (water contact angle of 118°). This effect is mainly attributed to the high molar mass of CS and the hydrogen bonding interactions established between CS chains and cellulose. This hydrophobic film prevents water interaction, resulting in a stable coating with insignificant leaching of CS after the stability test. The CS coating can offer a sustainable strategy to prevent wood degradation, overcoming the disadvantages of toxic chemicals often used as wood preservative agents.

Improving hot corrosion behaviour of Cr3C2-25NiCr coatings by reinforcing nano yttria stabilized zirconia at 850 °C

Yttria-Stabilized Zirconia (YSZ)-enhanced Cr3C2-25NiCr coatings were applied to T22 boiler tube steel using the High Velocity Oxy Fuel (HVOF) method. Conventional Ni-20Cr, 5 wt.% YSZ- Cr3C2-25NiCr, and 10 wt.% YSZ- Cr3C2-25NiCr composite coatings were prepared. High-temperature corrosion tests were conducted on both uncoated and coated samples in a Na2SO4-60%V2O5 environment at 850°C under fluctuating thermal conditions. These experiments were carried out in a silicon tube furnace at high temperatures, with each sample subjected to 50 cycles of exposure. Each cycle consisted of 1 hour in the corrosive environment followed by 20 minutes of cooling at room temperature. Corrosion products were analyzed using energy-dispersive x-ray analysis (EDS) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The addition of YSZ to the Cr3C2-25NiCr coatings significantly improved corrosion resistance, with the Ni-20Cr, 5 wt.% YSZ-Ni-20Cr, and 10 wt.% Cr3C2-25NiCr coatings reducing overall weight gain by 73.08%, 84.70%, and 89.96%, respectively, compared to uncoated T22 steel.

Easily Applicable Superhydrophobic Composite Coating with Improved Corrosion Resistance and Delayed Icing Properties

Mitigating the adverse effects of corrosion failure and low-temperature icing on aluminum (Al) alloy materials poses significant research challenges. The facile fabrication of bioinspired superhydrophobic materials offers a promising solution to the issues of corrosion and icing. In this study, we utilized laboratory-collected candle soot (CS), hydrophobic fumed SiO2, and epoxy resin (EP) to create a HF-SiO2@CS@EP superhydrophobic coating on Al alloy surfaces using a spray-coating technique. Various characterization techniques, including contact angle meter, high-speed camera, FE-SEM, EDS, FTIR, and XPS, were employed to investigate surface wettability, morphologies, and chemical compositions. Moreover, a 3.5 wt.% NaCl solution was used as a corrosive medium to evaluate the corrosion resistance of the uncoated and coated samples. The results show that the capacitive arc radius, charge transfer resistance, and low-frequency modulus of the coated Al alloy significantly increased, while the corrosion potential (Ecorr) shifted positively and the corrosion current (Icorr) decreased by two orders of magnitude, indicating improved corrosion resistance. Additionally, an investigation of ice formation on the coated Al alloy at −10 °C revealed that the freezing time was 4.75 times longer and the ice adhesion strength was one-fifth of the uncoated Al alloy substrate, demonstrating superior delayed icing and reduced ice adhesion strength performance.

B-184 Purifying High-Quality Genomic DNA From Frozen Blood Samples Stored up to 1.5 Years at -20°C

Abstract Background Maintaining DNA integrity in blood samples, from transport to storage to processing, is crucial to the success of downstream applications, especially regarding diagnostic applications. Additionally, due to the invasive nature of collecting blood samples, minimizing resampling to avoid excess patient pain and cost of collection and transportation are important to consider. Having the option to store and maintain portions of blood samples in the freezer enables future retesting without recollection. Since -20°C freezers generally are more affordable, require less energy, and have smaller footprints than -80°C freezers, demonstrating frozen blood stability at -20°C temperatures could decrease sampling burdens for labs with facility constraints. Methods Whole blood was collected into 9mL vacuum tubes (HemaSure-OMXP) from healthy donors. Aliquots of whole blood and buffy coat samples were stored at -20°C and thawed for genomic DNA extractions (QIAamp DNA Blood Mini Kit, Qiagen) at a range of different timepoints; frozen whole blood samples were processed at 0, 49, 141, and 148 days and frozen buffy coat samples were processed at 7, 27, 36, 185, 246, 373, 394, 584, and 604 days. Purified gDNA was quantified with Qubit (Broad Range dsDNA Assay, ThermoFisher) and qualified with Nanodrop One Microvolume UV-Vis Spectrophotometer (ThermoFisher) and TapeStation (Genomic DNA ScreenTape, Agilent Technologies). Results No significant decrease was observed for DNA yield and quality between fresh and frozen whole blood samples. Average DNA yields from 200 μL whole blood were 4.5 ± 2.2 μg and 5.3 ± 1.2 μg for fresh and frozen blood respectively. Average DNA integrity (DIN) was 6.9 ± 0.4 and 7.1 ± 0.3 for fresh and frozen blood respectively. Donor differences in blood samples can help explain the variance in DNA yields reported. No significant decrease was observed for DNA yield and quality in buffy coat samples frozen for longer at -20°C. In total, 84 whole blood and 25 buffy coat samples were processed in this study. Conclusions Although buffy coat samples tended to have higher yields than whole blood, due to the higher amount of white blood cells present, both sample types provided sufficient amounts of gDNA for downstream applications. Freezing blood samples for future testing can be effective at reducing the need for resampling without sacrificing the nucleic acid yield or quality of fresh samples. Additionally, as technological advancements are made for equipment and assays, frozen blood samples can be retested and compared to previous results for improved diagnostic decisions, done without requiring recollection from labs and patients.

Aqueous electrophoretic deposition of yttrium-doped nanobioactive glass/collagen/chitosan orthopedic coatings on 316L SS

The current study used yttrium-doped nanobioactive glass (Y-nBG), based on 62 SiO2 – (33 – x) CaO – 5 P2O5 – x Y2O3 mole % system (x = 0 and 3 mol %), collagen, and chitosan composites for coating 316L stainless steel (316L SS) using aqueous electrophoretic deposition (EPD) technique. The corresponding coated samples are encoded as SS/Col-Chit, SS/BG-Y0/Col-Chit, and SS/BG-Y3/Col-Chit, respectively. Physicochemical characterization implied TGA, FTIR, SEM-EDX, contact angle, adhesion strength and in vitro bioactivity in SBF were performed. Following SBF immersion, FTIR and SEM-EDX investigations were also carried out. Furthermore, the coatings were loaded with gentamicin drug; the drug-release profile and mechanism were evaluated. The antibacterial efficacy of the composite coatings was also assessed. The results showed the formation of homogeneous coatings with good adhesion strength, 1.39 MPa, 0.55 MPa, and 0.81 MPa, and enhanced the wettability by decreasing the contact angle 36⁰, 22⁰ and 12⁰ for SS/Col-Chit, SS/BG-Y0/Col-Chit and SS/BG-Y3/Col-Chit coatings, respectively. In vitro bioactivity of coatings containing nBG revealed apatite formation after immersion in SBF. Furthermore, the antibiotic gentamicin showed a sustained release profile over time by diffusion mechanisms based on the Higuchi, Fickian, and Weibull models. As well, all coatings containing drugs have an antibacterial effect. Overall, these findings suggested that the prepared coatings have potential applications as orthopedic and dental implants.

Surface modification of surgical suture by chitosan-based biocompatible hybrid coatings: In-vitro anti-corrosion, antibacterial, and in-vivo wound healing studies

This work aims to develop chitosan-based biocompatible hybrid coatings on synthetic surgical sutured by direct current electrophoretic deposition (DC-EPD) method. The chitosan (CS), curcumin (CR), aloe-vera (AV), and 2-aminothiazolidin-4-one-5-ethanoic acid (AT) were used as suspensions of varying combinations and compositions (A–I). Each suspension has a further 05 samples (Aa–Ae–Ia–Ie) at selected DC-EPD set parameters (2–10 V, t; 240 s, D; 1 cm). Potentiodynamic polarization measurements (PDP) were carried out in the ringer solution. Among all samples, Ed (CS, 1.6 g/L; 8 V) and Hb (CS–CR–AT, 1.6 g/Leach; 4 V) have shown greatest corrosion inhibition efficiency (IEPDP: 99 %), least corrosion rates (CR; 0.001 mm/y and 0.017 mm/y, respectively), and least corrosion current density (Icorr.; 0.01 A cm−2). SEM and FTIR further confirmed these two best coatings stable and corrosion resistant before and after performing corrosion test, while the coating thickness by profilometry test was found to be greater (16.28 μm) for Hb. Mechanical stress and strain of bare and coated samples were found to have no significant difference. Antibacterial activity revealed greater resistance of Hb against S. aureus as compared to Ed. In-vivo incision wound model study further revealed better healing and less inflammation with coated sutures with comparatively enhanced wound healing effect of Hb coated suture.

Latex-Bridged Inverse Pickering Emulsion for Durable Superhydrophobic Coatings with Dual Antibacterial Activity.

There is agreement that every colloidal structure produces its own set of unique characteristics, properties, and applications. A colloidal phenomenon of latex-bridged water in a dimethyl carbonate (DMC) Pickering emulsion stabilized by R202 hydrophobic silica was investigated for its ability to act as a superhydrophobic coating (SHC) for cellulose substrates. First, various emulsion compositions were screened for their stability and droplet size. The final composition was then cross-examined by cryogenic scanning electron microscopy and optical and fluorescent microscopy to verify the colloidal structure. The drying pattern of the coating was investigated by using labeled samples under a fluorescent microscope and by scanning electron microscopy on a paper substrate. After the final ∼3 μm of dry coating was applied, it exhibited superhydrophobicity (advancing contact angle = 155°) and full functionality after 5 min at room temperature (RT). Coated samples maintained superhydrophobicity after 20 abrasion cycles and mechanical integrity after 50 s of water immersion. The SHC-coated paper demonstrated compatibility with a standard laser printer, and the coated paper demonstrated superhydrophobicity after printing. Finally, a propolis/DMC extract was produced and then analyzed by gas chromatography-mass spectroscopy (GC-MS) and infused into the SHC (PSHC). The newly formed PSHC demonstrated its ability to act effectively against E. coli biofilm and S. aureus planktonic cells and reduce their viability by over 90% and 99.99%, respectively.

STRUCTURE FORMATION OF Ni−P ALLOY ELECTROCOATINGS WITH INCREASED CORROSION RESISTANCE

Purpose of research. The main factors that reduce the protective properties of electrocrystallized coatings are the formation of volumetric defects − pores, as well as the occurrence of microgalvanic couples at grain boundaries, that is, on surface defects of the crystalline structure. Creating a non-porous structure in electrocoatings, eliminating the formation of surface defects in metal/alloy layers, as well as the possibility of replacing chromium coatings, which are obtained from toxic electrolytes, are urgent tasks. Materials and methodology. In the work, it was proposed to use electrocoatings with Ni−P alloy as protective layers on products that increase corrosion resistance. An X-ray determination of the phase composition of Ni−P electrochemical deposits was carried out. The surface morphology and corrosion resistance of coatings were studied. Results. Samples of electrochemical coatings of pure nickel and nickel-phosphorus alloy were studied. It has been established that during the formation of nickel coatings with the addition of phosphorus ions, the surface morphology has practically no pores, amorphization of deposits occurs, due to which the protective properties, namely, corrosion resistance, are improved. Scientific novelty. Factors have been identified that influence the increase in corrosion resistance of coatings − the absence of a porous structure and the formation of an amorphous state. Conclusions. The influence on the structure and properties of electrochemical coatings of a nickel-phosphorus alloy has been studied. It has been established that the addition of phosphorus ions to the nickel plating electrolyte leads to the formation of an amorphous structure in the coatings, and layers of the Ni−P alloy appear practically without the presence of pores. It has been established that the effect of increasing the corrosion resistance of the electrochemical coating with a nickel-phosphorus alloy (by 30 %) is due to the formation of an amorphous structure of the solidifying metal liquid while preventing the crystallization process during electrochemical deposition.

Osteoblast and osteoclast activity on collagen-based 3D printed scaffolds enriched with strontium-doped bioactive glasses and hydroxyapatite nanorods for bone tissue engineering

Bone tissue engineering (BTE) aims to promote bone regeneration by means of the synergistic effect of biomaterials, cells, and other factors, as potential alternative to conventional treatments for bone fractures. To this aim, a composite material was developed, based on collagen type I, strontium-enriched mesoporous bioactive glasses, and hydroxyapatite nanorods as bioactive and biomimetic components. Nanostructured scaffolds were 3D printed and subsequently chemically crosslinked with genipin to improve mechanical properties and stability. The developed nanostructured system was maintained in culture until 3 weeks with a co-culture of human bone cells to provide anex vivomodel of bone microenvironment and examine the cellular crosstalk and signaling pathways through paracrine cell activities. Human osteoblasts (OBs), derived from trabecular bone, and human osteoclast precursors (OCs), isolated from buffy coat samples were involved, with OBs seeded on the scaffold and OC precursors seeded in a transwell device. When compared to the material without inorganic components, the bioactive and biomimetic scaffold positively influenced cell proliferation and cell metabolic activity, boosting alkaline phosphatase activity of OBs, and reducing OC differentiation. Thus, the bioactive and biomimetic system promoted an enhanced cellular response, highlighting its potential application in BTE.

Investigation of Corrosion Behavior of Cenosphere reinforced Iron Based Composite Coatings

In the present study cenopshere was reinforced with FeCrNiC (Metco 42C) as matrix material and prepared four different feedstock powders such as FeCrNiC+0%Cenosphere, FeCrNiC+5%Cenosphere, FeCrNiC+10%Cenosphere and FeCrNiC+15%Cenosphere were coated by plasma spray technique on T22 substrate. Evaluation of the substrate and coatings potential under salt spray test was performed. Dense fog of 5% NaCl salt water was used to create a corrosive atmosphere within the chamber. The salt water's pH was kept constant at 6.5-7. The materials that underwent corrosion were examined using X-ray diffraction (XRD), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The FeCrNiC+15%Cenosphere and FeCrNiC+10%Cenosphere coatings exhibited reduced weight loss during a 168-hour corrosion test compared to the FeCrNiC+5%Cenosphere, FeCrNiC coatings, and substrate. The excellent chemical stability and corrosion resistance of Cr23C6, SiO2, NiO, and Cr2O particles contribute to gradually avoid the formation of red rust on Fe-based coated samples with exposure approaches to 52 and 130 hours.

Comprehensive study of plasma polymerization parameters on thiol-coated LDPE films for effective fibronectin adsorption targeting biomedical applications

In the realm of biomedical applications, biocompatible materials with optimized surface properties are crucial for facilitating cellular interactions. To attain the perfect balance of these properties, surface modification of non-toxic and stable bulk materials is often required. Within this context, this research aimed to improve the physiochemical and cell-responsive properties of a low-density polyethylene film. This was achieved by depositing thiol-rich coatings using a dielectric barrier discharge plasma reactor operating at medium pressures, with 1-propanethiol serving as polymerization precursor. The study systematically investigated the impact of key plasma polymerization parameters, including DBD chamber pressure, treatment time, and the combination of precursor flow rate and discharge power represented by the Yasuda parameter, to identify optimal plasma processing conditions for the formation of thiol-rich coatings. To characterize the coating thickness, hydrophilicity and surface chemical composition, atomic force microscopy, water contact angle measurements, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy were employed. The findings indicated that reducing the chamber pressure to 10 kPa led to more hydrophilic and thicker deposits possessing a higher sulphur content. Deposition time (5 to 15 min) also significantly impacted coating thickness and surface chemistry, where long times increased thickness, but also led to a reduced sulphur and increased oxygen content because of more pronounced etching. The optimal deposition time was therefore set at 10 min resulting in the deposition of dense coatings possessing a high number of sulphur-containing functionalities. The Yasuda parameter (W/FM) analysis demonstrated optimal thiol incorporation in combination with high coating stability at an intermediate W/FM value of 72 MJ/kg. Following the determination of the optimal plasma polymerization parameters, the effectiveness of thiol plasma polymerization and subsequent fibronectin immobilization for enhancing cell adhesion and proliferation was investigated. The thiol-coated substrates were found to exhibit superior protein immobilization, because of the high affinity for protein binding of the available thiol groups. To assess cellular responses, Schwann cells were cultured on uncoated and coated samples before and after fibronectin immobilization. The results revealed a superior cellular response of the thiol-coated samples after fibronectin immobilization, showing the highest cell viability and significantly enhanced cell adhesion and proliferation. Collectively, these results underscore the synergistic effect of thiol plasma polymerization and fibronectin immobilization in promoting the cellular response of LDPE substrates, thus highlighting their potential as a surface modification strategy of biomaterials.

Development of a biomarker prediction model for post-trauma multiple organ failure/dysfunction syndrome based on the blood transcriptome

BackgroundMultiple organ failure/dysfunction syndrome (MOF/MODS) is a major cause of mortality and morbidity among severe trauma patients. Current clinical practices entail monitoring physiological measurements and applying clinical score systems to diagnose its onset. Instead, we aimed to develop an early prediction model for MOF outcome evaluated soon after traumatic injury by performing machine learning analysis of genome-wide transcriptome data from blood samples drawn within 24 h of traumatic injury. We then compared its performance to baseline injury severity scores and detection of infections.MethodsBuffy coat transcriptome and linked clinical datasets from blunt trauma patients from the Inflammation and the Host Response to Injury Study (“Glue Grant”) multi-center cohort were used. According to the inclusion/exclusion criteria, 141 adult (age ≥ 16 years old) blunt trauma patients (excluding penetrating) with early buffy coat (≤ 24 h since trauma injury) samples were analyzed, with 58 MOF-cases and 83 non-cases. We applied the Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator (LASSO) and eXtreme Gradient Boosting (XGBoost) algorithms to select features and develop models for MOF early outcome prediction.ResultsThe LASSO model included 18 transcripts (AUROC [95% CI]: 0.938 [0.890–0.987] (training) and 0.833 [0.699–0.967] (test)), and the XGBoost model included 41 transcripts (0.999 [0.997–1.000] (training) and 0.907 [0.816–0.998] (test)). There were 16 overlapping transcripts comparing the two panels (0.935 [0.884–0.985] (training) and 0.836 [0.703–0.968] (test)). The biomarker models notably outperformed models based on injury severity scores and sex, which we found to be significantly associated with MOF (APACHEII + sex—0.649 [0.537–0.762] (training) and 0.493 [0.301–0.685] (test); ISS + sex—0.630 [0.516–0.744] (training) and 0.482 [0.293–0.670] (test); NISS + sex—0.651 [0.540–0.763] (training) and 0.525 [0.335–0.714] (test)).ConclusionsThe accurate assessment of MOF from blood samples immediately after trauma is expected to aid in improving clinical decision-making and may contribute to reduced morbidity, mortality and healthcare costs. Moreover, understanding the molecular mechanisms involving the transcripts identified as important for MOF prediction may eventually aid in developing novel interventions.

Impact of Antioxidant-Enriched Edible Gel Coatings and Bio-Based Packaging on Cherry Tomato Preservation.

This research investigates the effects of using edible gel coatings and bio-based packaging materials on extending the shelf life of cherry tomatoes. Two edible gel coatings (guar gum and guar gum +5% of a lemon (Citrus limon (L.) Osbeck pomace extract obtained in the research laboratory) were applied on cherry tomatoes, then they were packaged in bio-based materials (cellulose tray + PLA lid). Guar gum, glycerol, sorbitol, extra virgin olive oil, and tween 20 were used in coating formulation. Uncoated tomatoes packed in bio-based materials and conventional plastic (PET trays + lid) were tested as a control. Samples were stored for 45 days at 20 °C and their quality parameters were evaluated. Coated tomatoes maintained firmness and weight, and the enriched coated samples showed a significant increase in phenol content, derived from the antioxidant extract. Samples packed in PET showed a sensory unacceptability (<4.5) after 45 days correlated with a greater decline in firmness (from 10.51 to 5.96 N) and weight loss (from 7.06 to 11.02%). Therefore, edible gel coating and bio-based packaging proved to be effective in maintaining the overall quality of cherry tomatoes for 45 days, offering a promising approach to reduce plastic polymer use and food waste.

Single nucleotide polymorphism profiles of canine T-cell and null-cell lymphomas.

The histopathological classification of T-cell lymphoma (TCL) in humans has distinctive mutational genotyping that suggests different lymphomagenesis. A similar concept is assumed to be observed in dogs with different TCL phenotypes. This study aimed to identify the previously reported single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in both human beings and dogs in canine TCLs and null-cell lymphomas (NCLs) and to design compatible oligonucleotides from each variant based on the multiplex polymerase chain reaction. Genomic DNA was extracted from 68 tumor specimens (62 TCLs and 6 NCLs) and 5 buffy coat samples from dogs with TCL. Four TCL subtypes and NCL were analyzed in 44 SNPs from 21 genes using the MassARRAY. The greatest incidences of SNPs observed in all TCL subtypes and NCL ware SATB1 c.1259A > C, KIT c.1275A > G, SEL1L c.2040 + 200C > G, and TP53 c.1024C > T, respectively. Some SNP locations were statistically significant associated with NCL, including MYC p.S75F (p = 0.0003), TP53 p.I149N (p = 0.030), PDCD1 p.F37LX (p = 0.012), and POT1 p.R583* (p = 0.012). Each TCL histological subtype and NCL are likely to contain distinctive mutational genetic profiles, which might play a role in lymphoma gene-risk factors and might be useful for selecting therapeutic target drugs for each canine patient.

Surface characteristics and machining rate of SS 316L coating developed using hydroxyapatite-mixed EDM process

Hydroxyapatite (HA) or bioceramic-based coatings on stainless steel (SS) 316L significantly enhance the biofunctionality of the base material's surface. However, HA's low thermal conductivity and brittleness limit its effectiveness as a coating material. This study investigates HA coating on SS 316L using electric discharge machining (EDM) with varying discharge energies and powder concentrations. Surface morphology, elemental composition, and phase analysis of untreated and coated samples were characterised using field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), energy dispersive X-ray (EDX), and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The results demonstrate that the HA-assisted EDM process creates a coating comprising biocompatible oxides, phosphates, carbides, and intermetallic compounds. The coating exhibits a thin resolidified layer of 10.74 μm, characterised by redeposited spherical debris, shallow cavities, and a surface texture of 2.688 μm. The layer's hydrophilic nature is confirmed by a minimum contact angle of 47.68°. Taguchi analysis indicates that the machining rate is optimised at an HA powder concentration of 16 g/l, with peak current and HA powder concentration being the most influential parameters affecting resolidified layer thickness, surface texture, and wetting angle. The research intends to motivate SS 316L medical device manufacturers to implement the HA-assisted EDM process for bioimplant's dual machining and coating.

Leishmania Infection among HIV-Infected Patients in a Southern Province of Thailand: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Leishmaniasis, a neglected tropical disease, imposes a notable health burden, especially on immunocompromised individuals such as HIV patients. Recognizing its prevalence and risk factors in specific populations is vital for effective prevention. This study in Satun Province, southern Thailand, aimed to ascertain leishmaniasis prevalence and identify associated risks among HIV-infected patients. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 650 HIV-infected individuals at a tertiary care hospital. Data on demographic characteristics, clinical parameters, and potential risk factors were collected. Individual plasma, buffy coat, and saliva samples were collected. Leishmania infection was determined using the direct agglutination test and nested polymerase chain reaction (nPCR) of nPCR-buffy coat and nPCR-saliva. The association between risk factors and Leishmania infection was assessed with logistic regression analysis. The prevalence of Leishmania infection was 8.61% (56/650). Species was identified among 20 HIV-infected patients as follows: Leishmania orientalis (N = 14), Leishmania martiniquensis (N = 4), and Leishmania donovani complex (N = 2). The factors associated with Leishmania infection included age (adjusted odds ratio [OR] = 1.03), intravenous drug use (adjusted OR = 2.39), CD4 cell count <500 cells/mm3 (adjusted OR = 2.40), and a viral load ≥50 copies/mL (adjusted OR = 5.16). The prevalence of Leishmania infection among HIV-infected patients in Satun Province was considerable. These findings underscore the need for integrated care and targeted interventions to address this infection and improve public health outcomes. Further research and collaborative efforts are warranted to develop effective prevention and control strategies for Leishmania infection in the HIV-infected Thai population.

Association between CH mutation in TET2and solid cancer in elderly Asian women.

10585 Background: Clonal hematopoiesis (CH), defined by the expansion of mutated hematopoietic cells due to somatic mutations acquired during aging, is associated with increased age and inflammatory conditions. CH serves as a predictor for the risks of cancer and cardiovascular events, highlighting the importance of early detection of genetic alterations for proactive intervention. As Asian societies are experiencing rapid aging alongside genetic and environmental variations distinct from Western cohorts, we aimed to evaluate the predictive significance of CH in solid cancer in an Asian cohort. Methods: We conducted a nested case-control study within Singapore Longitudinal Ageing Study 1 (SLAS1; NCT03405675). Chinese females (aged 55.0-83.9), comprising 31 patients with solid cancers (breast, lung, colon) who developed cancer during the follow-up, and 29 controls, were randomly selected from the SLAS1. SLAS1 is a community-based longitudinal aging cohort study. Subjects aged 55 years or older, capable of self-ambulation, were recruited between 2003 and 2005 (n=2804) and were followed up in 2005-2007, 2008-2009, and 2018-2020. We linked SLAS1 with records from the Singapore National Death Registry to identify subjects with cancers as cause of death during this period (median follow-up period 17 years). Buffy coat samples taken at baseline were sequenced using the 42-gene target HemeMark panel (Lucence, Singapore) with a reported 0.1% limit of detection. Chi-square test and t-test were performed to compare the frequency of CH variants and the mean number of mutations per person in the case and control group. We evaluated multiple variant allele frequency (VAF) thresholds on an exploratory basis (0.1% to 2%). The relationship between CH mutations and the likelihood of developing cancer was investigated through a logistic regression model, considering CH mutation defined at various cutoff points. Results: CH was found in 29.0% (9/31) of cases and 37.9% (11/29) of controls, with common mutated genes being TET2 (8/31, 25.8%), ASXL1 (4/31, 12.9%), and DNMT3A (2/31, 6.5%) in case group (VAF threshold=0.5%). Multi-gene CH did not predict cancer at any threshold (with the lowest P value of 0.5858 corresponding to VAF 0.5), Genes correlating with increased cancer risk included TET2 with adjusting for age, which was notably significant at thresholds of 0.3% and above (VAF 0.3%, adjusted OR=2.25, 95% CI: 1.14-4.47, p=0.0201; 0.5%, adjusted OR=4.12, 95% CI: 2.00-8.88, p=0.0002). Conclusions: CH determined through multi-genes was not associated with solid cancers, but TET2 mutations at 0.3-0.5% VAF thresholds were more prevalent in cancer cases, as compared to the current 2% threshold used for calling CHIP. The finding in this nested case-control study, conducted within a cohort with a 17-year follow-up, implies a potential association between TET2 mutation and solid cancer. Further study is warranted on a larger cohort.