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We have successfully fabricated a series of the SmCaBCuO bulk superconducting ceramics with different ratios of nanoscale Boron doping into mixture powder by the solid-state reaction method. Permanent magnets (PMs) with three different values in the same form were used for magnetic levitation force (MLF) measurements. During measurement of levitation forces between small PMs and bulk high Tc superconducting ceramic materials, significant hysteretic behavior was observed as a function of the distance between the magnet and the superconductor. We focused on the effect of doping and different permanent magnets on magnetic levitation force (MLF) measurements and magnetic stiffness calculations of materials, considering zero field-cooling (ZFC) and field-cooling (FC) conditions. It was seen that MLF decreased with the increase in boron dopant in the sample under ZFC conditions. We explained this result with weak bonds between grain boundaries, cracks and grain size reduction in the samples. Under FC conditions, with the increase of permanent magnet value and nano boron doping, the levitation force, which should be effective, left its place to the attractive force. Flux trapping centers formed by doping dominate the attractive force. The increase in doping caused a decrease in magnetic stiffness values. The increase in the permanent magnet caused an increase in the stiffness values of the material. This result agrees with the literature. The MLF and magnetic stiffness data got will be useful in the technological applications of maglev and carrier systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Phagocytosis, a vital defense mechanism, involves the recognition and elimination of foreign substances by cells. Phagocytes, such as neutrophils and macrophages, rapidly respond to invaders; macrophages are especially important in later stages of the immune response. They detect “find me” signals to locate apoptotic cells and migrate toward them. Apoptotic cells then send “eat me” signals that are recognized by phagocytes via specific receptors. “Find me” and “eat me” signals can be strategically harnessed to modulate antitumor immunity in support of cancer therapy. These signals, such as calreticulin and phosphatidylserine, mediate potent pro‐phagocytic effects, thereby promoting the engulfment of dying cells or their remnants by macrophages, neutrophils, and dendritic cells and inducing tumor cell death. This review summarizes the phagocytic “find me” and “eat me” signals, including their concepts, signaling mechanisms, involved ligands, and functions. Furthermore, we delineate the relationships between “find me” and “eat me” signaling molecules and tumors, especially the roles of these molecules in tumor initiation, progression, diagnosis, and patient prognosis. The interplay of these signals with tumor biology is elucidated, and specific approaches to modulate “find me” and “eat me” signals and enhance antitumor immunity are explored. Additionally, novel therapeutic strategies that combine “find me” and “eat me” signals to better bridge innate and adaptive immunity in the treatment of cancer patients are discussed.

Antigen-presenting cells (APCs) play an important role in virus infection control by bridging innate and adaptive immune responses. Macrophages and dendritic cells (DCs) possess various surface receptors to recognize/internalize antigens, and antibody binding can enhance pathogen-opsonizing uptake by these APCs via interaction of antibody fragment crystallizable (Fc) domains with Fc receptors, evoking profound pathogen control in certain settings. Here, we examined phagocytosis-enhancing potential of Fc domains directly oriented on a retroviral virion/virus-like particle (VLP) surface. We generated an expression vector coding a murine Fc fragment fused to the transmembrane region (TM) of a retroviral envelope protein, deriving expression of the Fc-TM fusion protein on the transfected cell surface and production of virions incorporating the chimeric Fc upon co-transfection. Incubation of Fc-displaying simian immunodeficiency virus (SIV) with murine J774 macrophages and bone marrow-derived DCs derived Fc receptor-dependent enhanced uptake, being visualized by imaging cytometry. Alternative preparation of a murine leukemia virus (MLV) backbone-based Fc-displaying VLP loading an influenza virus hemagglutinin (HA) antigen resulted in enhanced HA internalization by macrophages, stating antigen compatibility of the design. Results show that the Fc-TM fusion molecule can be displayed on certain viruses/VLPs and may be utilized as a molecular adjuvant to facilitate APC antigen uptake. • Antibody Fc can be surface-displayed on virions and virus-like particles (VLPs). • Fc-displaying viruses/VLPs undergo enhanced uptake by antigen-presenting cells. • Imaging cytometry depicts enhanced Fc-displayed virus internalization. • Loading antigen-compatible design can harness immunization regimens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Maize is an important agricultural crop ensuring food and nutritional security throughout the globe. It is highly sensitive to many of the biotic and abiotic stresses, and among them, drought is the most severe abiotic stress limiting maize production. Climate change tends to worsen this scenario by changing precipitation patterns and decreasing water availability. Hence, the present study was undertaken to identify drought‐tolerant inbred lines under well‐irrigated and managed stress conditions in the field toward developing drought‐resilient maize hybrids. The initial in vitro screening of 65 agronomically elite maize inbred lines was undertaken at 15%, 20%, and 25% polyethylene glycol (PEG) concentrations. Subsequently, the 15 inbreds selected for their promising performance under varying concentrations of PEG were evaluated in the pot (100%, 60%, and 40% of field capacity [FC]) and managed field experiments (moisture stress). Various physiological, biochemical, and yield attributing traits were measured among the inbreds to assess their drought tolerance potential. The analysis of variance in the pot and field experiments indicated significant genotypic differences among the inbreds and genotype × treatment interaction for different traits considered. In the pot experiment, the phenotypic correlation analysis showed a significant positive association of shoot fresh weight with plant height (r =.71), number of leaves (r =.58), relative water content (r =.60), root fresh weight (r =.58), shoot dry weight (r =.60), and SPAD meter readings under (r =.71) moisture stress condition. In the field experiment, the grain yield had a significant positive association with plant height, relative water content, SPAD before stress, ear length, ear girth, kernel rows per ear, kernels per row, and per day productivity under stress. Proline accumulation in inbreds during stress was found to be higher compared to nonstress conditions. The inbred lines CML 505, CML 444, CML 451, CML 504, QM 11408, and MAI 214 were promising for most of the drought tolerance imparting traits. These six inbreds along with four inbreds having low DRI (SKV 50, MAI E2‐163, MAI 16, and MAI E2‐241) were crossed in half diallel manner, and crosses involving low × high or high × low DRI inbreds showed higher grain yield. The current study also revealed the need of combining various physiological and yield attributing traits in drought breeding programmes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The S239D/I332E mutation in both chain A and chain B of Fc is widely employed to enhance the binding affinity of Fc to its receptor (FcγRIIIa). Despite its popularity in Fc mutation, the kinetic effect of this mutation has not been explored theoretically. This study delves into the impact of S239D and I332E mutations on the association rate between Fc and its receptor by employing computational modeling and transition complex theory. It was revealed that the double mutant exerts the most significant effect, followed by the S239D single mutant and then the I332E single mutant, as evidenced by their association rate constants. We also assessed the mutation effect on the dissociation rate constant indirectly by utilizing experimentally determined binding affinities and the estimated association rate constants. The mutation influence on dissociation outweighs its impact on association, although with varying degrees among the mutants. In particular, the double mutant demonstrated the highest impact on dissociation, while the effects were relatively weak for the two single mutants. These mutation effects on the kinetics of the Fc–Fc receptor interaction correlate with specific molecular interactions at the binding interfaces of the mutant complexes, providing valuable insights for the design of Fc–Fc receptor binding and contributing to our understanding of these crucial interactions in immunology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: This study introduces an innovative strategy for a cytotoxic T-lymphocyte (CTL) epitope-based multi-epitope vaccine to enhance cellular immunity against porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV), aiming to surpass the limitations of existing vaccines. It pioneers the use of conserved CTL epitopes from PRRSV in vaccine development, eliciting a robust cellular immune response in a mouse model that makes it a potential vaccine candidate for the future. The continuously evolving PRRSV has been plaguing pig farms worldwide for over 30 years, with conventional vaccines suffering from insufficient protection and biosecurity risks. To address these challenges, we identified 10 PRRSV-specific CTL epitopes through enzyme-linked immunospot assay (ELISPOT) and constructed a multi-epitope peptide (PTE) by linking them in tandem. This PTE was then fused with a modified porcine Fc molecule to create the recombinant protein pFc-PTE. Our findings indicate that pFc-PTE effectively stimulates PRRSV-infected specific splenic lymphocytes to secrete high levels of interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) and is predicted to be non-toxic and non-allergenic. Compared to PTE alone, pFc-PTE not only induced a comparable cellular immune response in mice but also extended the duration of the immune response to at least 10 weeks post-immunization. Additionally, pFc-PTE predominantly induced a Th1 immune response, suggesting its potential advantage in enhancing cellular immunity. Consequently, pFc-PTE holds promise as a novel, safe, and potent candidate vaccine for PRRSV and may also provide new perspectives for vaccine design against other viral diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies coordinate immune effector responses by interacting with effector cells via fragment crystallizable γ (Fcγ) receptors. The IgG Fc domain directs effector responses through subclass and glycosylation variation. Although each Fc variant has been extensively characterized in isolation, during immune responses, IgG is almost always produced in Fc mixtures. How this influences effector responses has not been examined. Here, we measure Fcγ receptor binding to mixed Fc immune complexes. Binding of these mixtures falls along a continuum between pure cases and quantitatively matches a mechanistic model, except for several low-affinity interactions mostly involving IgG2. We find that the binding model provides refined estimates of their affinities. Finally, we demonstrate that the model predicts effector cell-elicited platelet depletion in humanized mice. Contrary to previous views, IgG2 exhibits appreciable binding through avidity, though it is insufficient to induce effector responses. Overall, this work demonstrates a quantitative framework for modeling mixed IgG Fc-effector cell regulation.

Natural killer (NK) cells likely play an important role in immunity to malaria, but the effect of repeated malaria on NK cell responses remains unclear. Here, we comprehensively profiled the NK cell response in a cohort of 264 Ugandan children. Repeated malaria exposure was associated with expansion of an atypical, CD56neg population of NK cells that differed transcriptionally, epigenetically, and phenotypically from CD56dim NK cells, including decreased expression of PLZF and the Fc receptor γ-chain, increased histone methylation, and increased protein expression of LAG-3, KIR, and LILRB1. CD56neg NK cells were highly functional and displayed greater antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity than CD56dim NK cells. Higher frequencies of CD56neg NK cells were associated with protection against symptomatic malaria and high parasite densities. After marked reductions in malaria transmission, frequencies of these cells rapidly declined, suggesting that continuous exposure to Plasmodium falciparum is required to maintain this modified, adaptive-like NK cell subset.

Fetal sex affects fetal and maternal health outcomes in pregnancy, but this connection remains poorly understood. As the placenta is the route of fetomaternal communication and derives from the fetal genome, placental gene expression sex differences may explain these outcomes. We utilized next generation sequencing to study the normal human placenta in both sexes in first and third trimester to generate a normative transcriptome based on sex and gestation. We analyzed 124 first trimester (T1, 59 female and 65 male) and 43 third trimester (T3, 18 female and 25 male) samples for sex differences within each trimester and sex-specific gestational differences. Placenta shows more significant sexual dimorphism in T1, with 94 T1 and 26 T3 differentially expressed genes (DEGs). The sex chromosomes contributed 60.6% of DEGs in T1 and 80.8% of DEGs in T3, excluding X/Y pseudoautosomal regions. There were 6 DEGs from the pseudoautosomal regions, only significant in T1 and all upregulated in males. The distribution of DEGs on the X chromosome suggests genes on Xp (the short arm) may be particularly important in placental sex differences. Dosage compensation analysis of X/Y homolog genes shows expression is primarily contributed by the X chromosome. In sex-specific analyses of first versus third trimester, there were 2815 DEGs common to both sexes upregulated in T1, and 3263 common DEGs upregulated in T3. There were 7 female-exclusive DEGs upregulated in T1, 15 female-exclusive DEGs upregulated in T3, 10 male-exclusive DEGs upregulated in T1, and 20 male-exclusive DEGs upregulated in T3. This is the largest cohort of placentas across gestation from healthy pregnancies defining the normative sex dimorphic gene expression and sex common, sex specific and sex exclusive gene expression across gestation. The first trimester has the most sexually dimorphic transcripts, and the majority were upregulated in females compared to males in both trimesters. The short arm of the X chromosome and the pseudoautosomal region is particularly critical in defining sex differences in the first trimester placenta. As pregnancy is a dynamic state, sex specific DEGs across gestation may contribute to sex dimorphic changes in overall outcomes. • Fetal and maternal health outcomes due to the placenta are sexually dimorphic, therefore sequencing was performed. • Sex differences were more prevalent in first trimester, and derived mostly from sex chromosomes. • Genes common to both sexes were identified, as well as genes exclusive to each sex. • This is the largest normative placenta transcriptome atlas stratified by sex across gestation. • Genes identified may account for changes during placentation or overall outcomes based on sex. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The urgent imperative to mitigate carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions from power generation poses a pressing challenge for contemporary society. In response, there is a critical need to intensify efforts to improve the efficiency of clean energy sources and expand their use, including wind energy. Within this field, it is necessary to address the variability inherent to the wind resource with the application of prediction methodologies that allow production to be managed. At the same time, to extend its use, this clean energy should be made accessible to everyone, including on a small scale, boosting devices that are affordable for individuals, such as Raspberry and other low-cost hardware platforms. This study is designed to evaluate the effectiveness of various machine learning (ML) algorithms, with special emphasis on deep learning models, in accurately forecasting the power output of wind turbines. Specifically, this research deals with convolutional neural networks (CNN), fully connected networks (FC), gated recurrent unit cells (GRU), and transformer-based models. However, the main objective of this work is to analyze the feasibility of deploying these architectures on various computing platforms, comparing their performance both on conventional computing systems and on other lower-cost alternatives, such as Raspberry Pi 3, in order to make them more accessible for the management of this energy generation. Through training and a rigorous benchmarking process, considering accuracy, real-time performance, and energy consumption, this study identifies the optimal technique to accurately model such real-time series data related to wind energy production, and evaluates the hardware implementation of the studied models. Importantly, our findings demonstrate that effective wind power forecasting can be achieved on low-cost hardware platforms, highlighting the potential for widespread adoption and the personal management of wind power generation, thus representing a fundamental step towards the democratization of clean energy technologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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This paper presents the development of an airport bipolar DC microgrid and its interconnected operations with the utility grid, electric vehicle (EV), and more electric aircraft (MEA). The microgrid DC-bus voltage is established by the main sources, photovoltaic (PV) and fuel cell (FC), via unidirectional three-level (3L) boost converters. The proposed one-cycle control (OCC)-based current control scheme and quantitative and robust voltage control scheme are proposed to yield satisfactory responses. Moreover, the PV maximum power point tracking (MPPT) with FC energy-supporting approach is developed to have improved renewable energy extraction characteristics. The equipped hybrid energy storage system (HESS) consists of an energy-type battery and a power-type flywheel; each device is interfaced to the common DC bus via its own 3L bidirectional interface converter. The energy-coordinated operation is achieved by the proposed droop control. A dump load leg is added to avoid overvoltage due to an energy surplus. The grid-connected energy complementary operation is conducted using a neutral point clamped (NPC) 3L three-phase inverter. In addition to the energy support from grid-to-microgrid (G2M), the reverse mcrogrid-to-grid (M2G) operation is also conductible. Moreover, microgrid-to-vehicle (M2V) and vehicle-to-microgrid (V2M) bidirectional operations can also be applicable. The droop control is also applied to perform these interconnected operations. For the grounded aircraft, bidirectional microgrid-to-aircraft (M2A)/aircraft-to-microgrid (A2M) operations can be performed. The aircraft ground power unit (GPU) function can be preserved by the developed microgrid. The MEA on-board facilities can be powered by the microgrid, including the 115 V/400 Hz AC bus, the 270 V DC bus, the switched-reluctance motor (SRM) drive, etc. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The research in energy storage and conversion is playing a critical role in energy policy as the innovation and technological progress are essential for achieving the energy transition and climate neutrality goals. Hydrogen Fuel Cell technology is considered a strategic element in the pursuit of sustainable and clean energy solutions. This technology is increasingly gaining attention in recent years as a potential substitute to conventional non‐renewable energy sources. Fuel cell technology can be employed for domestic/commercial use along with powering the transportation sector which currently employs the use of conventional battery systems. However, these systems pose severe limitations with respect to longer charging times and limited distance range. This review article aims at providing a comprehensive methodical overview of hydrogen‐based fuel cell technology along with key concepts, present day scenarios, including overview of the market and industry trends, government policies and initiatives, along with major stakeholders involved in scaling up the technology for mass consumption. The outlook of fuel cells, including their capability to revolutionise the energy sector is discussed. The technological advancements and breakthroughs on the horizon along with the challenges and safety concerns related to the widespread acceptance of fuel cells are analysed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In addition to their undeniable importance for industry, natural plant products are widely used in the production of functional food, which, in addition to satisfying nutritional properties, also exhibits certain pharmacological and physiological effects on human health. Chokeberry fruit and products are considered to be excellent sources of polyphenolic compounds. A large part of polyphenolic compounds from aronia berries is found in the juice, but the flesh of the berry that remains behind in the juice production process is also rich in these bioactive compounds. The aim of the conducted research was to examine the antioxidant potential of the chokeberry juices from Bosnia and Herzegovina. The antioxidant potential of chokeberry juices in this study was tested by the ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) and total phenol content (FC). Tests were carried out in other juices for the same parameters in order to compare the obtained values. The research results show that the values of FRAP and total phenols in chokeberry juices vary (20-63 mmol Fe II/L; 850-4930 mg GAE/L), but are significantly higher than in other analyzed juices (7-25 mmol Fe II/L; 220-1265 mg GAE/L). By comparing the content of total phenols and FRAP values in pasteurized and unpasteurized chokeberry juice samples, it can be concluded that they are higher in the sample prepared by the pasteurization process. Statistical parameters show that the linear correlation between the total phenols and the FRAP values of chokeberry juices (r=0,964; p =0,001) and other analysed juices (r=0,960; p =0,001) is statistically significant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Natural killer (NK) cells can detect antibody-coated cells through recognition by the CD16 Fc receptor. The importance of CD16 in human NK cell biology has long been appreciated, but how CD16 functions in mouse NK cells remains poorly understood. Here, we report drastic differences between human and mouse CD16 functions in NK cells. We demonstrate that one of the adaptor molecules that CD16 associates with and signals through, CD3ζ, plays a critical role in these functional differences. Using a systematic approach, we demonstrate that residues in the transmembrane domain of the mouse CD3ζ molecule prevent efficient complex formation with mouse CD16, thereby dampening receptor function. Mutating these residues in mouse CD3ζ to those encoded by human CD3ζ resulted in rescue of CD16 receptor function. We reveal that the mouse CD3ζ transmembrane domain adopts a tightly packed confirmation, preventing association with CD16, whereas human CD3ζ adopts a versatile configuration that accommodates receptor assembly.

Abstract Background Radiolabeled-antibodies usually display non-specific liver accumulation that may impair image analysis and antibody biodistribution. Here, we investigated whether Fc silencing influenced antibody biodistribution. We compared recombinant 89Zr-labeled antibodies (human IgG1 against different targets) with wild-type Fc and with mutated Fc (LALAPG triple mutation to prevent binding to Fc gamma receptors; FcγR). After antibody injection in mice harboring xenografts of different tumor cell lines or of immortalized human myoblasts, we analyzed antibody biodistribution by PET-CT and conventional biodistribution analysis. Results Accumulation in liver was strongly reduced and tumor-specific targeting was increased for the antibodies with mutated Fc compared with wild-type Fc. Conclusion Antibodies with reduced binding to FcγR display lower liver accumulation and better tumor-to-liver ratios. These findings need to be taken into account to improve antibody-based theragnostic approaches.

The low abundance of envelope spikes and the inability of IgG to aggregate virions render HIV-1 an inadequate target for antibody-mediated clearance by phagocytes. In an attempt to improve the ability of antibody to mediate the internalization of HIV-1 virions, we generated multimers of the broadly neutralizing HIV-1-specific monoclonal antibody (MAb) VRC01 using site-directed mutagenesis of the Fc segment. We then measured virion internalization using primary human monocytes and neutrophils. We found that, in the absence of complement, immune complexes consisting of HIV-1 virions and VRC01 multimers were slightly more efficiently internalized than were complexes formed with monomeric VRC01. The presence of complement, however, greatly augmented internalization of immune complexes formed with the multimeric MAb but had little impact on monomeric MAb-mediated internalization. Multimerization and the presence of complement overcome the limited ability of monomeric antibody to mediate internalization of HIV-1 virions and may thus provide a therapeutic approach to clearing virus. IMPORTANCE Antibody-mediated internalization of HIV-1 by phagocytes, a potential mechanism for clearing virus, is very inefficient. In an effort to improve viral clearance, we produced a multimeric form of the broadly neutralizing monoclonal antibody VRC01. We found that VRC01 antibody multimers (primarily hexamers) were only slightly more efficient in mediating HIV-1 internalization than was monomeric VRC01. However, the addition of complement resulted in substantially greater internalization of multimer-opsonized virus. In contrast, complement had little if any impact on internalization of monomer-opsonized virus. Therefore, antibody multimerization in combination with complement may overcome the limited ability of monomeric antibody to mediate internalization of HIV-1 virions. Our findings may provide a therapeutic approach to clearing virus.

The continuously evolving PRRSV has been plaguing pig farms worldwide for over 30 years, with conventional vaccines suffering from insufficient protection and biosecurity risks. To address these challenges, we identified 10 PRRSV-specific CTL epitopes through enzyme-linked immunospot assay (ELISPOT) and constructed a multi-epitope peptide (PTE) by linking them in tandem. This PTE was then fused with a modified porcine Fc molecule to create the recombinant protein pFc-PTE. Our findings indicate that pFc-PTE effectively stimulates PRRSV-infected specific splenic lymphocytes to secrete high levels of interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) and is predicted to be non-toxic and non-allergenic. Compared to PTE alone, pFc-PTE not only induced a comparable cellular immune response in mice but also extended the duration of the immune response to at least 10 weeks post-immunization. Additionally, pFc-PTE predominantly induced a Th1 immune response, suggesting its potential advantage in enhancing cellular immunity. Consequently, pFc-PTE holds promise as a novel, safe, and potent candidate vaccine for PRRSV and may also provide new perspectives for vaccine design against other viral diseases.

Systems serology provides a broad view of humoral immunity by profiling both the antigen-binding and Fc properties of antibodies. These studies contain structured biophysical profiling across disease-relevant antigen targets, alongside additional measurements made for single antigens or in an antigen-generic manner. Identifying patterns in these measurements helps guide vaccine and therapeutic antibody development, improve our understanding of diseases, and discover conserved regulatory mechanisms. Here, we report that coupled matrix-tensor factorization (CMTF) can reduce these data into consistent patterns by recognizing the intrinsic structure of these data. We use measurements from two previous studies of HIV- and SARS-CoV-2-infected subjects as examples. CMTF outperforms standard methods like principal components analysis in the extent of data reduction while maintaining equivalent prediction of immune functional responses and disease status. Under CMTF, model interpretation improves through effective data reduction, separation of the Fc and antigen-binding effects, and recognition of consistent patterns across individual measurements. Data reduction also helps make prediction models more replicable. Therefore, we propose that CMTF is an effective general strategy for data exploration in systems serology.

Most individuals infected with or vaccinated against COVID-19 develop antigenic neutralizing immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies against the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein. Although neutralizing antibodies are biomarkers of the adaptive immune response, their mere presence is insufficient to explain the protection afforded against the disease or its pathology. IgG exhibits other secondary effector functions that activate innate immune components, including complement, natural killer cells, and macrophages. The affinity for effector cells depends on the isotypes and glycosylation of IgG antibodies. The anti-spike IgG titer should be sufficient to provide significant Fc-mediated effects in severe COVID-19, mRNA, and protein subunit vaccinations. In combination with aberrant effector cells, pro-inflammatory afucosylated IgG1 and IgG3 may be detrimental in severe COVID-19. The antibody response of mRNA vaccines leads to higher fucosylation and a less inflammatory IgG profile, with a long-term shift to IgG4, which is correlated with protection from disease.

The chance of getting colorectal cancer (CRC) is higher in people with chronic ulcerative colitis (UC). The impact of parasitic infections on UC is underappreciated. The purpose of this study was to look into the effect of intestinal protozoal infections on the dysplastic changes generated by UC. The research included 152 adult patients with histologically confirmed UC and 152 healthy controls. Fecal samples were examined for the presence of parasites and fecal calprotectin (FC). The enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay measured serum anti-p53 antibodies (p53Abs) and metallothioneins (MTs). The advanced oxidation protein products (AOPPs) and reduced glutathione (GSH) levels were measured by a spectrophotometric method in all subjects. Serum C-reactive protein (CRP) and IL-6 were also measured. In addition, histopathological and immunohistochemical investigations of intestinal tissue were done. Our results exhibited significant increases in FC and CRP, IL-6, AOPPs, MTs, and p53Abs in ulcerative colitis patients with parasitic infections compared to those without parasites. In contrast, GSH levels showed a significant decrease in the same group compared with other groups. Histopathological and immunohistochemical assessments of intestinal tissue signified severe inflammation and strong expression of PD-L1 in patients with parasitic infections compared to others without parasitic infections. Our research indicated a greater frequency of intestinal protozoa in UC patients with elevated inflammatory and dysplastic biomarker levels. This suggests that these parasites may be involved in the etiology of chronic UC and the associated carcinogenetic process. This is the first report of a link between parasitic infections and dysplastic alterations in UC patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Tuberculosis (TB) remains a substantial cause of morbidity and mortality among people living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) worldwide. However, the immunological mechanisms associated with the enhanced susceptibility among HIV‐positive individuals remain largely unknown. Methods: Here, we used a simian immunodeficiency virus (SIV)/TB‐coinfection Mauritian cynomolgus macaque (MCM) model to examine humoral responses from the plasma of SIV‐negative (n = 8) and SIV‐positive (n = 7) MCM 8‐week postinfection with Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb). Results: Antibody responses to Mtb were impaired during SIV coinfection. Elevated inflammatory bulk IgG antibody glycosylation patterns were observed in coinfected macaques early at 8‐week post‐Mtb infection, including increased agalactosylation (G0) and reduced di‐galactosylation (G2), which correlated with endpoint Mtb bacterial burden and gross pathology scores, as well as the time‐to‐necropsy. Conclusion: These studies suggest that humoral immunity may contribute to control of TB disease and support growing literature that highlights antibody Fc glycosylation as a biomarker of TB disease progression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Radiolabeled-antibodies usually display non-specific liver accumulation that may impair image analysis and antibody biodistribution. Here, we investigated whether Fc silencing influenced antibody biodistribution. We compared recombinant 89Zr-labeled antibodies (human IgG1 against different targets) with wild-type Fc and with mutated Fc (LALAPG triple mutation to prevent binding to Fc gamma receptors; FcγR). After antibody injection in mice harboring xenografts of different tumor cell lines or of immortalized human myoblasts, we analyzed antibody biodistribution by PET-CT and conventional biodistribution analysis. Results: Accumulation in liver was strongly reduced and tumor-specific targeting was increased for the antibodies with mutated Fc compared with wild-type Fc. Conclusion: Antibodies with reduced binding to FcγR display lower liver accumulation and better tumor-to-liver ratios. These findings need to be taken into account to improve antibody-based theragnostic approaches. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BackgroundGlioblastoma (GBM; World Health Organization grade IV) assumes a variable appearance on MRI owing to heterogeneous proliferation and infiltration of its cells. As a result, the neurovascular units responsible for functional connectivity (FC) may exist within gross tumor boundaries, albeit with altered magnitude. Therefore, we hypothesize that the strength of FC within GBMs is predictive of overall survival.MethodsWe used predefined FC regions of interest (ROIs) in de novo GBM patients to characterize the presence of within-tumor FC observable via resting-state functional MRI and its relationship to survival outcomes.ResultsFifty-seven GBM patients (mean age, 57.8 ± 13.9 y) were analyzed. Functionally connected voxels, not identifiable on conventional structural images, can be routinely found within the tumor mass and was not significantly correlated to tumor size. In patients with known survival times (n = 31), higher intranetwork FC strength within GBM tumors was associated with better overall survival even after accounting for clinical and demographic covariates.ConclusionsThese findings suggest the possibility that functionally intact regions may persist within GBMs and that the extent to which FC is maintained may carry prognostic value and inform treatment planning.

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a chronic neurodegenerative disease with limited therapeutic options. Recombinant Fc multimers (rFc), designed to mirror many of the anti-inflammatory activities of Intravenous Immunoglobulin (IVIG), have been shown to effectively treat numerous immune-mediated diseases in rodent s . In this study we used the experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) murine model of MS to test the efficacy of a rFc, M019, that consists of multimers of the Fc portion of IgG2, in inhibiting disease severity. We show that M019 effectively reduced clinical symptoms when given either pre- or post-symptom onset compared to vehicle treated EAE induced mice. M019 was effective in reducing symptoms in both SJL model of relapsing remitting MS as well as the B6 model of chronic disease. M019 binds to FcgR bearing-monocytes both in vivo and in vitro and prevented immune cell infiltration into the CNS of treated mice. The lack of T cell infiltration into the spinal cord was not due to a decrease in T cell priming; there was an equivalent frequency of Th17 cells in the spleens of M019 and vehicle treated EAE induced mice. Surprisingly, there was an increase in chemokines in the sera but not in the CNS of M019 treated mice compared to vehicle treated animals. We postulate that M019 interacts with a FcgR rich monocyte intermediary to prevent T cell migration into the CNS and demyelination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Influenza B virus (IBV) contributes to substantial influenza-mediated morbidity and mortality, particularly among children. Similar to influenza A viruses (IAV), the hemagglutinin (HA) and neuraminidase (NA) of IBV undergo antigenic drift, necessitating regular reformulation of seasonal influenza vaccines. NA inhibitors, such as oseltamivir, have reduced activity and clinical efficacy against IBV, while M2 channel inhibitors are only effective against IAV, highlighting the need for improved vaccine and therapeutics for the treatment of seasonal IBV infections. We have previously described a potent human monoclonal antibody (hMAb), 1092D4, that is specific for IBV NA and neutralizes a broad range of IBVs. The anti-viral activity of MAbs can include direct mechanisms such as through neutralization and/or Fc-mediated effector functions that are dependent on accessory cells expressing Fc receptors and that could be impacted by potential host-dependent variability. To discern if the in vivo efficacy of 1092D4 was dependent on Fc-effector function, 1092D4 hMAb with reduced ability to bind to Fc receptors (1092D4–LALAPG) was generated and tested. 1092D4–LALAPG had comparable in vitro binding, neutralization, and inhibition of NA activity to 1092D4. 1092D4–LALAPG was effective at protecting against a lethal challenge of IBV in mice. These results suggest that hMAb 1092D4 in vivo activity is minimally dependent on Fc-effector functions, a characteristic that may extend to other hMAbs that have potent NA inhibition activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article presents a cost-effective and reliable solution for meeting the energy demands of remote areas through the integration of multiple renewable energy sources. The proposed system aims to reduce dependence on fossil fuels and promote sustainable development by utilizing accessible energy resources in a self-contained microgrid. Using the Hybrid Optimization Model for Electric Renewable (HOMER) software, the study examined the optimal combination of energy sources and storage technologies for an integrated hybrid renewable energy system (IHRES) in the Patiala location of Punjab. The total life cycle cost (TLCC) is the main objective of this manuscript. The HOMER result is taken as a reference, and the results are compared with the optimization hybrid algorithm (PSORSA). From this, it is clear that the proposed algorithm has less TLCC as compared to others. Two combinations of energy sources and storage technologies were considered, namely solar photovoltaic (PV)/battery and solar PV/fuel cell (FC). The results showed that the solar PV/FC combination is more cost-effective, reliable, and efficient than the solar PV/battery combination. Additionally, the IHRES strategy was found to be more economically viable than the single energy source system, with lower total life cycle costs and greater reliability and efficiency. Overall, the proposed IHRES model offers a promising solution for meeting energy demands in remote areas while reducing dependence on fossil fuels and promoting sustainable development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Protein aggregation is a major challenge in the development of therapeutic monoclonal antibodies (mAbs). Several stressors can cause protein aggregation, including temperature shifts, mechanical forces, freezing-thawing cycles, oxidants, reductants, and extreme pH. When antibodies are exposed to low pH conditions, aggregation increases dramatically. However, low pH treatment is widely used in protein A affinity chromatography and low pH viral inactivation procedures. In the development of an IgG4 subclass antibody, mAb1-IgG4 showed a strong tendency to aggregate when temporarily exposed to low pH conditions. Our findings showed that the aggregation of mAb1-IgG4 under low pH conditions is determined by the stability of the Fc. The CH2 domain is the least stable domain in mAb1-IgG4. The L309E, Q311D, and Q311E mutations in the CH2 domain significantly reduced the aggregation propensity, which could be attributed to a reduction in the hydrophobicity of the CH2 domain. Protein stabilizers, such as sucrose and mannose, could also attenuate low pH-induced mAb1-IgG4 aggregation by shielding hydrophobic areas and increasing protein stability. Our findings provide valuable strategies for managing the aggregation of protein therapeutics with a human IgG4 backbone.

This paper presents the development of an airport bipolar DC microgrid and its interconnected operations with the utility grid, electric vehicle (EV), and more electric aircraft (MEA). The microgrid DC-bus voltage is established by the main sources, photovoltaic (PV) and fuel cell (FC), via unidirectional three-level (3L) boost converters. The proposed one-cycle control (OCC)-based current control scheme and quantitative and robust voltage control scheme are proposed to yield satisfactory responses. Moreover, the PV maximum power point tracking (MPPT) with FC energy-supporting approach is developed to have improved renewable energy extraction characteristics. The equipped hybrid energy storage system (HESS) consists of an energy-type battery and a power-type flywheel; each device is interfaced to the common DC bus via its own 3L bidirectional interface converter. The energy-coordinated operation is achieved by the proposed droop control. A dump load leg is added to avoid overvoltage due to an energy surplus. The grid-connected energy complementary operation is conducted using a neutral point clamped (NPC) 3L three-phase inverter. In addition to the energy support from grid-to-microgrid (G2M), the reverse mcrogrid-to-grid (M2G) operation is also conductible. Moreover, microgrid-to-vehicle (M2V) and vehicle-to-microgrid (V2M) bidirectional operations can also be applicable. The droop control is also applied to perform these interconnected operations. For the grounded aircraft, bidirectional microgrid-to-aircraft (M2A)/aircraft-to-microgrid (A2M) operations can be performed. The aircraft ground power unit (GPU) function can be preserved by the developed microgrid. The MEA on-board facilities can be powered by the microgrid, including the 115 V/400 Hz AC bus, the 270 V DC bus, the switched-reluctance motor (SRM) drive, etc.

This paper presents a stand-alone hybrid energy system that utilizes Wind, Solar, Fuel Cell (FC), Superconducting magnetic energy storage (SMES) and Electrolyzer. A novel control methodology has been created to guarantee that the dc-link voltage stays at its designated value by regulating the converters linked to the FC and electrolyzer. The dc-link reference voltage signal is generated by a constant voltage algorithm of a maximum power point tracker (MPPT) for the photovoltaic system (PVS). Consequently, the converters linked to the FC and electrolyzers not only control the dc voltage but also function as an MPPT, removing the necessity for an extra MPPT circuit for the PVS. By properly controlling the dynamics of the FC and electrolyzer, the SMES can charge/discharge instantaneously while the FC/electrolyzer can feed/consume power in a steady state. The proposed control methodology of the dc voltage is simple and requires only a few measurements. Furthermore, a PWM inverter controller was created to uphold voltages at their designated reference level. Extensive simulation results carried out using Simulink on MATLAB platform have demonstrated that the controllers function effectively in both transient and steady state situations.

The pharmacokinetic properties of antibodies are largely dictated by the pH-dependent binding of the IgG fragment crystallizable (Fc) domain to the human neonatal Fc receptor (hFcRn). Engineered Fc domains that confer a longer circulation half-life by virtue of more favorable pH-dependent binding to hFcRn are of great therapeutic interest. Here we developed a pH Toggle switch Fc variant containing the L309D/Q311H/N434S (DHS) substitutions, which exhibits markedly improved pharmacokinetics relative to both native IgG1 and widely used half-life extension variants, both in conventional hFcRn transgenic mice and in new knock-in mouse strains. engineered specifically to recapitulate all the key processes relevant to human antibody persistence in circulation, namely: (i) physiological expression of hFcRn, (ii) the impact of hFcγRs on antibody clearance and (iii) the role of competing endogenous IgG. DHS-IgG retains intact effector functions, which are important for the clearance of target pathogenic cells and also has favorable developability.

OBJECTIVE:To investigate safety and explore efficacy of efgartigimod (ARGX-113), an anti-neonatal Fc receptor immunoglobulin G1 Fc fragment, in patients with generalized myasthenia gravis (gMG) with a history of anti-acetylcholine receptor (AChR) autoantibodies, who were on stable standard-of-care myasthenia gravis (MG) treatment. METHODS:A phase 2, exploratory, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, 15-center study is described. Eligible patients were randomly assigned (1:1) to receive 4 doses over a 3-week period of either 10 mg/kg IV efgartigimod or matched placebo combined with their standard-of-care therapy. Primary endpoints were safety and tolerability. Secondary endpoints included efficacy (change from baseline to week 11 of Myasthenia Gravis Activities of Daily Living, Quantitative Myasthenia Gravis, and Myasthenia Gravis Composite disease severity scores, and of the revised 15-item Myasthenia Gravis Quality of Life scale), pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, and immunogenicity. RESULTS:Of the 35 screened patients, 24 were enrolled and randomized: 12 received efgartigimod and 12 placebo. Efgartigimod was well-tolerated in all patients, with no serious or severe adverse events reported, no relevant changes in vital signs or ECG findings observed, and no difference in adverse events between efgartigimod and placebo treatment. All patients treated with efgartigimod showed a rapid decrease in total immunoglobulin G (IgG) and anti-AChR autoantibody levels, and assessment using all 4 efficacy scales consistently demonstrated that 75% showed a rapid and long-lasting disease improvement. CONCLUSIONS:Efgartigimod was safe and well-tolerated. The correlation between reduction of levels of pathogenic IgG autoantibodies and disease improvement suggests that reducing pathogenic autoantibodies with efgartigimod may offer an innovative approach to treat MG. CLASSIFICATION OF EVIDENCE:This study provides Class I evidence that efgartigimod is safe and well-tolerated in patients with gMG.

To enhance the accuracy of object recognition, various combination of recognition algorithms are used in recent literature. In this paper coherence of Discrete Wavelet Transform (DWT) is combined with four different algorithms: error vector of principal component analysis (PCA), eigen vector of PCA, eigen vector of Linear Discriminant Analysis (LDA) and Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) then combination of four results are done using entropy of detection probability and Fuzzy system. From this research the accuracy of recognition is found dependent on image and diversity of database. The combined method of the paper provides recognition rate of 89.56% for the worst case and 93.34% for the best case both can be said better in comparison with the previous works where individual method has been implemented on a specific set of images.

Abstract Objectives Tuberculosis (TB) remains a substantial cause of morbidity and mortality among people living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) worldwide. However, the immunological mechanisms associated with the enhanced susceptibility among HIV‐positive individuals remain largely unknown. Methods Here, we used a simian immunodeficiency virus (SIV)/TB‐coinfection Mauritian cynomolgus macaque (MCM) model to examine humoral responses from the plasma of SIV‐negative (n = 8) and SIV‐positive (n = 7) MCM 8‐week postinfection with Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb). Results Antibody responses to Mtb were impaired during SIV coinfection. Elevated inflammatory bulk IgG antibody glycosylation patterns were observed in coinfected macaques early at 8‐week post‐Mtb infection, including increased agalactosylation (G0) and reduced di‐galactosylation (G2), which correlated with endpoint Mtb bacterial burden and gross pathology scores, as well as the time‐to‐necropsy. Conclusion These studies suggest that humoral immunity may contribute to control of TB disease and support growing literature that highlights antibody Fc glycosylation as a biomarker of TB disease progression.

HIV-specific broadly neutralizing antibodies (bNAbs) confer protection after passive immunization, but the immunological mechanisms that drive their development are poorly understood. Structural features of bNAbs indicate that they originate from extensive germinal center (GC) selection, which relies on persistent GC activity. However, why a fraction of infected individuals are able to successfully drive more effective affinity maturation is unclear. Delivery of antigens in the form of antibody-immune complexes (ICs), which bind to complement receptors (CRs) or Fc receptors (FcRs) on follicular dendritic cells, represents an effective mechanism for antigen delivery to the GC. We sought to define whether IC-FcR or CR interactions differ among individuals who develop bNAb responses to HIV. Enhanced Fc effector functions and FcR/CR interactions, via altered Fc glycosylation profiles, were observed among individuals with neutralizing antibody responses to HIV compared with those without neutralizing antibody activity. Moreover, both polyclonal neutralizer ICs and monoclonal IC mimics of neutralizer antibodies induced higher antibody titers, higher-avidity antibodies, and expanded GC B cell reactions after immunization of mice via accelerated antigen deposition within B cell follicles in a complement-dependent manner. Thus, these data point to a direct role for altered Fc profile/complement interactions in shaping the maturation of the humoral immune response, providing insights into how GC activity may be enhanced to drive affinity maturation in next-generation vaccine approaches.

Macrophages protect the body from damage and disease by targeting antibody-opsonized cells for phagocytosis. Though antibodies can be raised against antigens with diverse structures, shapes, and sizes, it is unclear why some are more effective at triggering immune responses than others. Here, we define an antigen height threshold that regulates phagocytosis of both engineered and cancer-specific antigens by macrophages. Using a reconstituted model of antibody-opsonized target cells, we find that phagocytosis is dramatically impaired for antigens that position antibodies >10 nm from the target surface. Decreasing antigen height drives segregation of antibody-bound Fc receptors from the inhibitory phosphatase CD45 in an integrin-independent manner, triggering Fc receptor phosphorylation and promoting phagocytosis. Our work shows that close contact between macrophage and target is a requirement for efficient phagocytosis, suggesting that therapeutic antibodies should target short antigens in order to trigger Fc receptor activation through size-dependent physical segregation.

Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most aggressive and lethal form of brain tumor. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) released by tumor cells play a critical role in cellular communication in the tumor microenvironment promoting tumor progression and invasion. We hypothesized that GBM EVs possess unique characteristics which exert effects on endogenous CNS cells including neurons, producing dose-dependent neuronal cytotoxicity. We purified EVs from the plasma of 20 GBM patients, 20 meningioma patients, and 21 healthy controls, and characterized EV phenotypes by electron microscopy, nanoparticle tracking analysis, protein concentration, and proteomics. We evaluated GBM EV functions by determining their cytotoxicity in primary neurons and the neuroblastoma cell line SH-SY5Y. In addition, we determined levels of IgG antibodies in the plasma in GBM (n = 82), MMA (n = 83), and controls (non-tumor CNS disorders and healthy donors, n = 50) with capture ELISA. We discovered that GBM plasma EVs are smaller in size and had no relationship between size and concentration. Importantly, GBM EVs purified from both plasma and tumor cell lines produced IgG-mediated, complement-dependent apoptosis and necrosis in primary human neurons, mouse brain slices, and neuroblastoma cells. The unique phenotype of GBM EVs may contribute to its neuronal cytotoxicity, providing insight into its role in tumor pathogenesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mulberry (Morus species) leaves are the sole source of food for the silkworm (Bombyx mori L.) hence, high-quality foliage is the key to the productivity of the silk industry. Rapid water loss from the harvested leaves is one of the major reasons for quality loss affecting silkworm feeding behaviour. Previous research in our laboratory indicated that epicuticular wax is essential in maintaining leaf moisture in harvested leaves of mulberry. In the present study, an agronomic approach was designed and tested to increase the cuticular resistance and enhance moisture retention capacity in the harvested leaves in two genotypes of mulberry, Dudia white (DW) and Matigara white (MW). Controlled irrigation and mild drought stress increased leaf epicuticular wax and drought-stressed plants had a significantly higher wax load (465.31 and 556.29 μg dm-2 in Dudia white and Matigara white, respectively) at 40 per cent soil field capacity (FC) when compared to the plants grown at 100 per cent FC. The harvested leaves showed higher moisture retention capacity (MRC) of 92 and 84.74 per cent at 40 per cent FC compared to 62.55 and 57.10 per cent at 100 per cent FC in Dudia white and Matigara white, respectively. Leaves from water-limited plants had significantly lower water loss of 3.4 and 5.9 per cent under 40 per cent FC compared to control plants (6.6 and 9.1%). The technique used in this study increased MRC and helped in preserving leaf quality. The approach developed is cost-effective and can be easily adopted in farmer’s fields. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to analyze the influence of dredger fill initial mud (original mud) on the anti-liquefaction strength cyclic resistance ratio (CRR) value of different strata after dredger fill under earthquake. According to the theories of soil mechanics, fluid mechanics and particle sorting. The expression of the variation law of dredger fill liquefaction index CRR value in different strata under the influence of dredger fill initial mud FC value was derived. Firstly, based on the threshold FCth of dredger fill particle contact state, the influence of fine particle content FC on soil CRR value was classified and discussed, and combined with the theory of particle natural separation, the expression of the change law of dredger fills initial mud FC value affecting dredger fill liquefaction index CRR value was established. Finally, according to the field investigation data, the reliability of the theoretical model was analyzed. The results show that the calculation model of CRR value of initial slurry-sediment stratification can well describe the law of the influence of initial slurry of hydraulic filling on the CRR value of deposited strata. When FC≥FCth, silt takes part in the construction of the soil skeleton, and its CRR value shows a non-monotonic change law, and the properties of the soil also show the trend of the sand to silt. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to compare the pharmacokinetics, safety, and immunogenicity of the prefilled syringe (PFS) with lyophilized (LYO) recombinant human tumor necrosis factor‐α receptor II:lgG Fc fusion protein (rhTNFR:Fc) in healthy Chinese male subjects. A single‐center, randomized, open‐label, 2‐period, crossover study was performed in healthy Chinese male subjects. Subjects were randomly assigned into 2 sequences and received a subcutaneous injection of 25 mg rhTNFR:Fc PFS or rhTNFR:Fc LYO (Anbainuo), with a 35‐day washout between the 2 periods. Blood samples were collected at specified time intervals, and then serum concentrations of rhTNFR:Fc were analyzed by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. The maximum serum concentration, area under the concentration‐time curve (AUC) from time 0 to the last quantifiable concentration, and AUC from time 0 to infinity were all calculated and evaluated. Meanwhile, safety and immunogenicity were also assessed. A total of 82 subjects completed the study, and six subjects withdrew for various reasons. The 90%CIs for geometric mean ratios of maximum serum concentration, AUC from time 0 to the last quantifiable concentration, and AUC from time 0 to infinity were all within the equivalence range of 80% to 125%. Safety was comparable between the 2 formulations with low immunogenicity. rhTNFR:Fc PFS exhibited similar pharmacokinetic and safety profiles of rhTNFR:Fc LYO (Anbainuo) in healthy Chinese male subjects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A hybrid control scheme for power system reliability of hybrid renewable energy sources (HRES) such as solar photovoltaic-wind energy and hybrid fuel cell is presented in this paper. The proposed hybrid control scheme is joint execution of Tunicate Swarm algorithm (TSA). Here, the TSA is used to diminish the cost function and exploit the power system reliability. The major purpose of this work is to diminish the cost in numerous conditions, as wind power, photovoltaic and fuel cell. Here, the TSA technique is trained on inputs such as earlier instantaneous energy of the available sources. The TSA control system creates the gain parameters deliver the optimal control signal and achieve the RES power. Then, the proposed scheme is performed on MATLAB/Simulink platform. The behavior of proposed scheme is related with existing schemes as MA-RBFNN. The efficiency of the DE, NSGA-II, NSGA-III, MA-RBFNN and proposed technique is 82.136%, 77.26588%, 80.7532%, 97.52470% and 97.83099%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herbal markets are the meeting point of the local people and allow quick information exchange about medicinal plants. In this study, it is aimed both to investigate the traditional uses of medicinal plants traded in Gaziantep herbal markets and to make a detailed evaluation of the selected herbal markets. Data about herbal markets and medicinal plants were collected through semi-structured and open-ended questionnaires from herbalists and customers. Ethnobotanical data were analysed using indices such as; Frequency of Citation (FC), Cultural Importance Index (CI), Relative Frequency of Citation (RFC), and species Use Value (UV). Totally, 58 species (belonging 30 families) out of which 10 imported were surveyed from 14 selected herbal markets to be used as traditional medicines. Mentha x piperita (147), Thymus sp. (141), and Tilia platyphyllos (132) were determined to have the highest FC values. According to the results of the study, the density of customers in herbal markets, the variety and quality of products sold, and the number of herbal markets has increased in recent years. It has been determined that the average operating age of the herbal market is 34.7 years, the average number of employees is 2.6, and the average annual turnover of the markets is 166,772,888TL (US$42,762,279, currency in 2017). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]