bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High Performance Solar Thermoelectric Generator Using Asymmetrical Variable Leg Geometries
Authors: Maduabuchi Chika , Ejenakevwe Kevwe , Ndukwe Agwu , Mgbemene Chigbo
Published: February 2021

This paper presents a computational study of the combined effects of variable geometry and asymmetry in the legs of thermocouples of thermoelectric modules used in solar thermoelectric generators (STEGs). Six different models were considered for the thermocouples in each module, namely: rectangular-rectangular legs, rectangular-trapezoidal legs, rectangular-X legs, trapezoidal-trapezoidal legs, trapezoidal-X legs, and X-X legs. Simulations of the six different modules under the same heat flux was carried out in ANSYS 2020 R2 software. Temperature and voltage distributions were obtained for each model and the results indicate significant variations due to the utilization of varying leg geometries. Results show that the X-X leg module generated the highest temperature gradient and electric voltage. In comparison, a temperature gradient and electric voltage of 297 K and 16 V, respectively were achieved with the X-X leg module as against 182 K and 8.4 V, respectively, achieved in a conventional rectangular leg module. This suggests a 63.2% and 90.5% increase in the temperature gradient and electric voltage of the conventional TE module. Therefore, this study demonstrates that X geometry gives the best performance for thermoelectric modules and STEGs.
Experimental analysis of a bubbling fluidized bed gasification plant fed by biomass: Design, implementation and validation of the control system
Authors: Vargas-Salgado Carlos , Montuori Lina , Alcázar-Ortega Manuel
Published: February 2021

Despite being a renewable source, biomass as fuel for power generation is still not completely exploited. In biomass gasification plants, control operations are crucial for the proper management of the plant. This paper describes the results of a regulation control applied to an experimental biomass bubbling fluidized bed (BFB) gasification plant. The aim of implementing the system is to improve the biomass gasification process, increasing the efficiency and ensuring the safety in the plant operation. The equivalence ratio (ER) is one of the main parameters in a gasification process. To improve the ER, the airflow input is controlled, measuring the air velocity through an anemometer. On the other hand, the biomass flow is controlled modifying the speed of the screw conveyor using an inverter for regulating the frequency of its electric motor. A PLC is used for programming the instructions to implement control functions and to store the data given by the measurement devices. Once implemented the control system, the biomass gasification plant could work either; manually o automatically, allowing to adjust ER, increasing efficiency of the process. Finally, some tests are done to validate the control system, using the acquired data to improve the process.
Use of hydrogen as a source of clean energy
Authors: Grecea Danut , Pupazan Gabriela , Darie Marius , Paraian Mihaela , Colda Cosmin
Published: February 2021

The increase in energy consumption is closely correlated with the continuous evolution of human society, which implies both the depletion of fossil fuels and the increase in pollution levels. One solution to these problems is to obtain electricity from renewable sources but also to use alternative fuels for car transportation. Within the paper, there are presented the necessary conditions for the design of hydrogen gas stations in accordance with the legal requirements in force regarding the protection to explosion.
Dilated odontoma: an unusual case report and literature review
Authors: Galvez P. , Garot E. , Bres A. , Crelier A. , Castain C. , Catros S. , Fenelon M.
Published: February 2021

Introduction: Dilated odontoma is the most severe form of a dens invaginatus, which is a rare dental malformation resulting from an invagination of the enamel organ into the dental papilla before calcification occurs. Observation: A healthy 7-years-old girl was referred to the oral surgery department to remove an impacted odontoma causing a delayed dental eruption of the right mandibular lateral incisor (tooth 42). The patient was painless and a lingual osseous swelling was observed. A computed tomography and a 3D segmentation revealed a shell-shaped mass in the position of the right mandibular lateral incisor, showing a complex anatomy. Surgical excision was carried out under general anesthesia. Histological analysis confirmed the diagnosis of DO. Discussion and conclusion: We performed a literature review investigating 16 cases of severe forms of dens invaginatus which required extraction. It highlighted the atypical aspect of our case and the importance of 3D imaging and segmentation in contributing to the accurate diagnosis and treatment of this dental malformation.
A profit jump inventory model for imperfect quality items with receiving reparative batch and order overlapping in dense fuzzy environment
Authors: De Sujit Kumar , Mahata Gour Chandra
Published: February 2021

This paper presents an economic order quantity (EOQ) inventory model for imperfect quality items with receiving a reparative batch and order overlapping in a dense fuzzy environment Here, the imperfect items are identified by screening and are divided into either scrap or reworkable items. The reworkable items are kept in store until the next items are received. Afterwards, the items are returned to the supplier to be reworked. Also, discount on the purchasing cost is employed as an offer of cooperation from a supplier to a buyer to compensate for all additional holding costs incurred to the buyer. The rework process is error free. An order overlapping scheme is employed so that the vendor is allowed to use the previous shipment to meet the demand by the inspection period. However, we assume the total monthly demand quantity as the dense fuzzy number because of learning effect. Moreover, first of all a profit maximization deterministic model is developed and solve by classical method. Fuzzifying the final optimized function via dense fuzzy demand quantity we have employed extended ranking index rule for its defuzzification. During the process of defuzzification we make an extensive study on the paradoxical unit square of the left and right deviations of dense fuzzy numbers. A comparative study is made after splitting the model into general fuzzy and dense fuzzy environment. Finally numerical and graphical illustrations and sensitivity analysis have been made for its global justifications.
Evaluation of the polyp-based resect and discard strategy: a retrospective study
Authors: Duong Antoine , Pohl Heiko , Djinbachian Roupen , Deshêtres Annie , Barkun Alan N. , Marques Paola N. , Bouin Mickael , Deslandres Eric , Aguilera-Fish Andres , Leduc Raymond , von Renteln Daniel
Published: February 2021

Background Standard colonoscopy practice requires removal and histological characterization of almost all detected small (< 10 mm) and diminutive (≤ 5 mm) colorectal polyps. This study aimed to test a simplified polyp-based resect and discard (PBRD) strategy that assigns surveillance intervals based only on size and number of small/diminutive polyps, without the need for pathology examination.

Methods A post hoc analysis was performed on patients enrolled in a prospective study. The primary outcome was surveillance interval agreement of the PBRD strategy with pathology-based management according to 2020 US Multi-Society Task Force guidelines. Chart analysis also evaluated clinician adherence to pathology-based recommendations. One-sided testing was performed with a null-hypothesis of 90 % agreement with pathology-based surveillance intervals and a two-sided 96.7 % confidence interval (CI) using correction for multiple testing.

Results 452 patients were included in the study. Surveillance intervals assigned using the PBRD strategy were correct in 97.8 % (96.7 %CI 96.3–99.3 %) of patients compared with pathology-based management. The PBRD strategy reduced pathology examinations by 58.7 % while providing 87.8 % of patients with immediate surveillance interval recommendations on the day of colonoscopy, compared with 47.1 % when using pathology-based management. Chart analysis of surveillance interval assignments showed 63.3 % adherence to pathology-based guidelines.

Conclusion The PBRD strategy surpassed the 90 % agreement with the pathology-based standard for determining surveillance interval, reduced the need for pathology examinations, and increased the proportion of patients receiving immediate surveillance interval recommendations. The PBRD strategy does not require expertise in optical diagnosis and may replace histological characterization of small and diminutive colorectal polyps.
Base-Catalyzed Intramolecular Defluorination/O-Arylation Reaction for the Synthesis of 3-Fluoro-1,4-oxathiine 4,4-Dioxide
Authors: Qian Jinlong , Jiang Gaoxi , Kang Lei , Zhang Jinlong , Yang Huameng
Published: February 2021

A novel process involving base-catalyzed intramolecular defluorination/O-arylation of readily available α-fluoro-β-one-sulfones was realized and provided a series of 3-fluoro-1,4-oxathiine 4,4-dioxide derivatives in good to excellent yields. Unlike traditional defluorination reactions with stoichiometric base as the deacid reagent, this process is triggered by a catalytic amount of base (TMG: tetramethylguanidine) and molecular sieves serve as both an adsorbent to remove HF acid and an activator to assist C–F bond cleavage.
Primary Intracranial Malignant Melanoma Mimicking Meningioma—Report of Two Cases
Authors: Bhople Laxmikant , Kharosekar Hrushikesh U. , Naik Harish , Velho V.
Published: February 2021

Primary intracranial melanoma is uncommon and accounts for only approximately 1% of all cases of melanoma. This is interesting to neuro-oncologists and neurosurgeons because the clinical and radiological patterns of these tumors can mimic the presence of meningioma. Primary central nervous system melanomas have rarely been reported with less than 25 cases reported till date. We report two cases of the primary intracranial melanoma that even though very rare should be kept as a differential diagnosis when meningioma is suspected.
Tratamento da consolidação viciosa do rádio distal: Osteotomia corretiva mediante planejamento com prototipagem em impressão 3D
Authors: Belloti João Carlos , Alves Bernardo Vaz Peres , Archetti Nicola , Nakachima Luis Renato , Faloppa Flavio , Tamaoki Marcel Jun Sugawara
Published: February 2021

As fraturas da porção distal do rádio estão entre as mais comuns do esqueleto. A consolidação viciosa pode ocorrer em até um terço dessas fraturas e acarretar restrição de movimento e dor no punho, com consequente limitação ou incapacidade laboral. O tratamento desta condição implica em osteotomia corretiva das deformidades, o que necessita de um planejamento pré-operatório criterioso em virtude de sua complexidade tridimensional, notadamente naquelas em que há acometimento articular. Assim, recentemente, tem sido utilizada a prototipagem a partir da reconstrução 3D da tomografia computadorizada (TC), o que permite o planejamento com realização da osteotomia em modelo anatômico tridimensional, com o melhor entendimento da deformidade, aproximando-se da situação realística da cirurgia, o que torna o procedimento mais seguro, ágil e previsível. O objetivo do presente estudo é apresentar esta técnica e seu emprego em dois casos clínicos.
Insights into the Role of Granulocyte Colony-Stimulating Factor in Severe Alcoholic Hepatitis
Authors: Kedarisetty Chandan Kumar , Kumar Anupam , Sarin Shiv Kumar
Published: February 2021

Alcohol use disorder is the predominant cause of chronic liver disease globally. The standard of care for the treatment of alcoholic hepatitis, corticosteroids, has been shown to provide a therapeutic response in ∼60% of carefully selected patients with a short-term survival benefit. The patients who do not respond to steroids, or are ineligible due to infections or very severe disease, have little options other than liver transplantation. There is, thus, a large unmet need for new therapeutic strategies for this large and sick group of patients. Granulocyte colony stimulating factor (G-CSF) has been shown to favorably modulate the intrahepatic immune milieu and stimulate the regenerative potential of the liver. Initial studies have shown encouraging results with G-CSF in patients with severe alcoholic hepatitis. It has also been found to help steroid nonresponsive patients. There is, however, a need for careful selection of patients, regular dose monitoring and close observation for adverse events of G-CSF. In this review, we analyze the basis of the potential benefits, clinical studies, cautions and challenges in the use of G-CSF in alcoholic hepatitis.
Estresse oxidativo e características ultrassonográficas do tendão anormal em jogadores de futebol de elite (um estudo piloto)
Authors: Abate Michele , Di Carlo Luigi , Cocco Giulio , Cocco Antonino , Sabatini Ernesto , Salini Vincenzo
Published: February 2021

Objetivo Dados experimentais ultrassonográficos sugerem que o estresse oxidativo desempenha um papel importante na patogênese das tendinopatias. No entanto, essa hipótese permanece especulativa em humanos, dado que faltam dados clínicos para comprová-la. Recentemente, uma nova metodologia permitiu quantificar o estresse oxidativo in vivo medindo a concentração de hidroperóxidos de compostos orgânicos, que tem sido utilizada como um marcador relacionado ao estresse oxidativo em várias condições patológicas e fisiológicas. Dada a confiabilidade desse teste e a falta de informação em sujeitos com tendinopatias, o objetivo do presente estudo foi avaliar o status de estresse oxidativo em jogadores profissionais de elite com e sem características ultrassonográficas de dano tendinoso.

Métodos Em 73 jogadores de elite foram avaliados parâmetros metabólicos e o estresse oxidativo foi medido por meio de um teste específico (expresso como unidades U-Carr). Por isso, foi realizada uma avaliação ultrassonográfica dos tendões de Aquiles e patelar.

Resultados Não foram observadas relações significativas entre parâmetros metabólicos e biomarcadores de estresse oxidativo. Os tendões de Aquiles e patelar mostraram um padrão ecográfico normal em 58 atletas, e anormalidades ultrassonográficas em 15. Os atletas com alterações, em comparação com aqueles com quadro normal, apresentaram níveis significativamente mais elevados de U-Carr (p = 0,000), índice de massa corporal (IMC) (p = 0,03) e eram mais velhos (p = 0,005). A diferença nos valores de U-Carr entre os sujeitos permaneceu significativa também após ajuste por idade e IMC.

Conclusão Os resultados deste estudo corroboram a hipótese de que as substâncias oxidativas, também aumentadas a nível sistêmico e não apenas a nível local, podem favorecer danos no tendão.

Nível de Evidência IV (estudo piloto).
Pearls and Pitfalls of Phrenic Nerve Transfer for Shoulder Reconstruction in Brachial Plexus Injury
Authors: Doi Kazuteru , Sem Sei Haw , Ghanghurde Bipin , Hattori Yasunori , Sakamoto Sotetsu
Published: February 2021

Objectives The purpose of this study was to report the functional outcomes of phrenic nerve transfer (PNT) to suprascapular nerve (SSN) for shoulder reconstruction in brachial plexus injury (BPI) patients with total and C5–8 palsies, and its pulmonary complications.

Methods Forty-four out of 127 BPI patients with total and C5–8 palsies who underwent PNT to SSN for shoulder reconstruction were evaluated for functional outcomes in comparison with other types of nerve transfers. Their pulmonary function was analyzed using vital capacity in the percentage of predicted value and Hugh-Jones (HJ) breathless classification. The predisposing factors to develop pulmonary complications in those patients were examined as well.

Results PNT to SSN provided a better shoulder range of motion significantly as compared with nerve transfer from C5 root and contralateral C7. The results between PNT and spinal accessory nerve transfer to SSN were comparable in all directions of shoulder motions. There were no significant respiratory symptoms in majority of the patients including six patients who were classified into grade 2 HJ breathlessness grading. Two predisposing factors for poorer pulmonary performance were identified, which were age and body mass index, with cut-off values of younger than 32 years old and less than 23, respectively.

Conclusions PNT to SSN can be a reliable reconstructive procedure in restoration of shoulder function in BPI patients with total or C5–8 palsy. The postoperative pulmonary complications can be prevented with vigilant patient selection.
Atypical Acute Retroviral Syndrome Presenting as a Facial Palsy
Authors: Olsen Boomer , Wooden Ekaphol
Published: February 2021

Acute retroviral syndrome (ARS) refers to signs and symptoms present during acute human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection. Historically, ARS has been characterized as a mononucleosis-like illness. However, ARS may present with typical (i.e., mononucleosis-like) or atypical signs and symptoms. Here, we review typical and atypical ARS and discuss a 30-year-old man who first presented with a facial palsy and returned 2 years later with oral hairy leukoplakia, at which time he was found to have HIV and acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). We suggest that facial palsies should pique clinical suspicion for HIV, especially in the context of recent or concurrent flu- or mononucleosis-like illness.
Radiologically Inserted Gastrostomy (RIG) at a Tertiary Center: Periprocedural Safety including Rationalization of Antibiotic Prophylaxis
Authors: Clements Warren , Shvarts Yasmin , Koukounaras Jim , Phan Tuan D. , Goh Gerard S. , Joseph Tim , Kuang Ronny , Murnane Lisa
Published: February 2021

Introduction Long-term percutaneous enteral nutrition forms an important part of treatment for patients with an inability to meet nutrient requirements orally. Radiologically inserted gastrostomy (RIG) is an alternative to the traditionally performed percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy technique. However, there is marked heterogeneity in the way that RIG is performed. In addition, the role for antibiotic prophylaxis during RIG insertion is not clearly established. This study aimed to assess the safety of RIG insertion using our technique including the role of antibiotics in RIG insertion.

Method Retrospective study over 5 years at a tertiary teaching hospital. Periprocedural or early complications within the first 2 weeks of the procedure were collected and correlated with the use of prophylactic antibiotics.

Results A total of 116 patients met the inclusion criteria. 18-French tube was used in 96.6%. Note that 58.6% of procedures were done with intravenous sedation. Prophylactic 1 g cefazolin was used in 70 patients with 1 case of infection. Procedures were performed without antibiotics in 46 patients with 3 infections, p = 0.20.

There were two major complications (1.7%) consisting of right gastric artery injury requiring embolization and gastric wall injury requiring laparotomy. There were 12 minor complications (10.3%) including 4 cases of infection, 3 of severe pain, 1 of minor bleeding, 2 of early dislodgement, and 2 of leak/bypass of gastric contents around the tube.

Conclusion The technique used for RIG insertion at our institution results in a low complication rate. In addition, this study shows no significant difference in early peristomal infection rate with the use of antibiotic prophylaxis.
Gallium nitride lights the way to breaking down toxic materials
Authors: Bandari Anashe
Published: February 2021

The photocatalytic activity of gallium nitride suggests it can help degrade toxic compounds in a variety of environments.
Holistic numerical calibration of the iMESA electrostatic analyzer
Authors: Enloe C. L. , Wilson G. R. , Maldonado C. A. , McHarg M. G.
Published: February 2021

A drifted Maxwellian velocity distribution is the most common model used to interpret the data from low-energy charged-particle instruments onboard spacecraft that are used to investigate the ambient plasma environment in the low Earth orbit (LEO). An original method is presented for determining the flow parameters (density, temperature, and flow energy) of such a distribution from the output of the integrated miniaturized electrostatic analyzer, which has been successfully flown on several LEO missions. Rather than attempting to deconvolve from the on-orbit data the analyzer’s response to an ideal, monoenergetic input, numerical simulation is used to predict and parameterize the response of the device to an input distribution that includes an isotropic, non-zero temperature, yielding a straightforward method for extracting the flow parameters from the spacecraft data. The method is computationally simple enough to be incorporated into a robust algorithm suitable for rapid batch processing or real-time analysis of data.
Simulation of the loss of passing fast ions induced by magnetic islands in EAST tokamak plasmas
Authors: Yu Limin , Xue Erbing , Zhang Debing , Zheng Shuyu , Zhang Xianmei , Huang Juan , Li Erzhong , Sheng Zheng-Mao , Fu Jing
Published: February 2021

The loss of beam ions due to magnetic islands is investigated in a tokamak. The perturbed guiding-center drifts of passing particles including the effect of the finite orbit width are demonstrated. The widths of the drift islands under resonant conditions are studied theoretically and numerically. The ORBIT code is used to simulate the action of the neoclassical tearing mode with a toroidal mode number n = 1 and poloidal mode number m = 2 on passing fast ions generated by neutral beam injection in the Experimental Advanced Superconducting Tokamak. Two loss channels for passing fast ions are identified as the resonant interaction and the stochastic interaction. The lost fast ions in the loss detector zone (LDZ) to simulate the fast-ion loss detector assemble around two regions in phase space, namely, (i) a pitch angle of θ = 28° both with and without the mode and (ii) θ = 59° when the mode amplitude is large enough, where θ=arccosv∥/v. The number of these lost ions in the LDZ evolves in the period of the mode. The fraction of the total lost ions evolves in the period of the n = 1 oscillation in the toroidal direction. The fraction of lost beam ions has a linear relationship with the mode amplitude in first 10 µs and a quadratic one thereafter. The corresponding characteristics of the lost beam ions in phase space are also discussed.
Efficient FPGA implementation of high-speed true random number generator
Authors: Lu Zhenguo , Yang Shenshen , Liu Jianqiang , Wang Xuyang , Li Yongmin
Published: February 2021

High-speed true random number generator is a building block in the modern information security system. We propose and demonstrate an efficient high-speed true random number generator based on multiple parallel self-timed rings (STRs). To improve the security, we evaluate the randomness of the entropy source by min-entropy and exploit the information-theoretically provable Toeplitz-hashing extractor. To minimize the consumption of hardware resources of a field programmable gate array at a predetermined high throughput and maximize the throughput with the limited hardware resources, we systematically derive and investigate the dependence of the data throughput and the total consumed resources of the random number generator on the system parameters. On this basis, we make a joint optimization for the degree of parallelism of the STRs and the extraction efficiency of the extractor. A 10-Gbps true random number generator is implemented efficiently, so that the output random bits can pass all the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) and Dieharder test suites.
Predicting the impact sensitivities of energetic materials through zone-center phonon up-pumping
Authors: Michalchuk Adam A. L. , Hemingway Jack , Morrison Carole A.
Published: February 2021

The development of new energetic materials (EMs) is accompanied by significant hazards, prompting interest in their computational design. Before reliable in silico design strategies can be realized, however, approaches to understand and predict EM response to mechanical impact must be developed. We present here a fully ab initio model based on phonon up-pumping that successfully ranks the relative impact sensitivity of a series of organic EMs. The methodology depends only on the crystallographic unit cell and Brillouin zone center vibrational frequencies. We, therefore, expect this approach to become an integral tool in the large-scale screening of potential EMs.
Kinetic properties of bio-molecules by different noises in the two-dimensional free-energy model
Authors: Zheng Yue , Xu Junjun
Published: February 2021

Fluctuation characteristics of a migration rate constant can mainly dominate kinetic properties of bio-molecules, and these characteristics are usually submitted to surroundings and the configuration qualities of bio-molecules themselves. The two-dimensional (2D) free-energy landscape including the extension coordinate and conformational variable is needed to study the migration rate of bio-molecules in our work. We adopted the 2D generalized Langevin equation to reveal the key nature of the bio-molecules’ kinetic properties during the turnover processes by using fractional Gaussian noise (fGn) and white noise (WN). Specifically, the dependence of mean waiting time under external force on both intrinsic energy height and noise strength ratio has been extensively analyzed. Particular attention in this work is paid to distinguish the important discrepancies among the normal diffusion, sub-diffusion, and mixed kinetics. Our results suggest that the unsymmetrical kernel matrix formed by fGn and WN is a significant factor to reveal the key information of the bio-molecules in the complex system. Moreover, mixed kinetic behavior is also an important phenomenon, which cannot be neglected.
Role of symmetry mismatch, charge transfer and low dimensionality in the magnetic order of CaMnO3/SrTiO3 ultrathin heterostructures
Authors: Barral M. A. , Llois A. M. , Di Napoli S.
Published: February 2021

By means of ab initio calculations, we study the effect of charge transfer and symmetry mismatch on the magnetic and electronic properties of CaMnO3 ultrathin films, epitaxially grown on SrTiO3 (001). We find that the interplay of these degrees of freedom, together with the low dimensionality and the strain imposed by the substrate, changes the bulk occupancy of the Mn eg orbitals, which determines the magnetic configuration of the ultrathin CMO films. A transition from an insulating G-type to a metallic A-type antiferromagnetic configuration is stabilized.
A conserved long noncoding RNA, GAPLINC, modulates the immune response during endotoxic shock
Authors: Vollmers Apple Cortez , Covarrubias Sergio , Kuang Daisy , Shulkin Aaron , Iwuagwu Justin , Katzman Sol , Song Ran , Viswanathan Kasthuribai , Vollmers Christopher , Wakeland Edward , Carpenter Susan
Published: February 2021

Significance

Inflammation has largely been studied in the context of protein-coding genes. Recent studies have uncovered lncRNAs as important regulators of immunity. The functional characterization of these genes remains an active area of research. In this study, we identify GAPLINC as a functionally conserved lncRNA between human and mouse. GAPLINC depletion results in enhanced expression of immune response genes that are direct NF-κB targets. Astoundingly, we observe thatGaplincknockout mice show resistance to LPS-induced endotoxic shock and find that basal expression of inflammatory genes prevents clot formation to protect against multiorgan failure and death. These findings have implications in the treatment of sepsis, in which new therapies targeting lncRNAs can contribute valuable information in understanding inflammation and improving patient outcome.
Simultaneously targeting cancer-associated fibroblasts and angiogenic vessel as a treatment for TNBC
Authors: Sharma Malvika , Turaga Ravi Chakra , Yuan Yi , Satyanarayana Ganesh , Mishra Falguni , Bian Zhen , Liu Wei , Sun Li , Yang Jenny , Liu Zhi-Ren
Published: February 2021

Fibrotic tumor stroma plays an important role in facilitating triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) progression and chemotherapeutic resistance. We previously reported a rationally designed protein (ProAgio) that targets integrin αvβ3 at a novel site. ProAgio induces apoptosis via the integrin. Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) and angiogenic endothelial cells (aECs) in TNBC tumor express high levels of integrin αvβ3. ProAgio effectively induces apoptosis in CAFs and aECs. The depletion of CAFs by ProAgio reduces intratumoral collagen and decreases growth factors released from CAFs in the tumor, resulting in decreased cancer cell proliferation and apoptotic resistance. ProAgio also eliminates leaky tumor angiogenic vessels, which consequently reduces tumor hypoxia and improves drug delivery. The depletion of CAFs and reduction in hypoxia by ProAgio decreases lysyl oxidase (LOX) secretion, which may play a role in the reduction of metastasis. ProAgio stand-alone or in combination with a chemotherapeutic agent provides survival benefit in TNBC murine models, highlighting the therapeutic potential of ProAgio as a treatment strategy.
The basis of the semiclassical description of electron transport in solids
Authors: Bringuier E
Published: February 2021

The theoretical account of electron transport in crystalline solids is often taught to graduate students through a semiclassical equation, which is a classical kinetic equation amended with elements of quantum physics in a non-systematic way. This blending of classical and quantal elements accounts for many experimental features of electron transport, save for a few ones observed over short distances. For students acquainted with solid-state quantum mechanics, it is preferable to derive the semiclassical equation from quantum dynamics so as to pinpoint the shortcomings and approximations underlying the semiclassical picture of transport. This paper explores the pathway leading from quantum dynamics to semiclassical kinetics within a simplified model not exceeding the proficiencies of a graduate student in physics or electronic engineering. In this model an electron moves in a crystal under the joint influences of the periodic crystal potential, an external electrostatic field and a set of lattice imperfections haphazardly distributed in the crystal volume. The first influence is treated exactly by means of standard energy-band theory and the other two are handled perturbatively. Following a procedure already tested in free-space issues, we replace Schrödinger’s wave function in position space with a Wigner function defined in the phase (position–pseudomomentum) space of semiclassical kinetics. The dynamical equation on the Wigner function is worked out and approximated so as to retrieve the semiclassical equation. The errors incurred in making use of the latter are assessed quantitatively. It is explained how a time-irreversible evolution equation—governing a phase-space occupancy—arises from reversible Schrödinger dynamics—governing a complex-valued probability amplitude. Besides clarifying the foundation of the semiclassical picture of electron transport and providing an explicit quantum-coherence correction to that picture, this paper may help students in general physics to better grasp, in a concrete issue, the interplay between classical and quantum concepts.
Weak itinerant ferromagnetism and non-Fermi liquid behavior in Ni-TM (TM = Cr, Nb) alloys near critical concentration
Authors: Vishvakarma Sonu , Srinivas V
Published: February 2021

We report a comprehensive study on the magnetic, electrical and thermal properties of Ni100−x

TM

x
(TM = V, Cr, Nb,) alloys around their critical concentration. Analysis of field and temperature dependence magnetization data suggests a weak itinerant ferromagnetic behavior in x = 8 and 10 compositions and the ferromagnetic ordering suppresses in the concentration range 10 < x < 12. Further, the temperature dependence of specific heat shows an unusual low temperature variation with an enhanced Sommerfeld coefficient, γ, with a signature of non-Fermi-liquid (NFL) behavior close to critical concentration. Further, the enhancement in Kadowaki–Woods ratio suggests it to be a strongly correlated electron system near critical concentration. Present analysis of experimental data consistently revealed that the NFL behavior is caused by spin fluctuations near critical concentration. The temperature dependencies of the electrical resistivity, the magnetization and linear term of the electronic specific heat appear to follow the theoretical predictions of a quantum phase transition and it is tempting to suggest that the presently studies Ni-rich alloys can be candidates for the observation of Griffith phase.
Fabrication of antireflective silver-capped tin oxide nano-obelisk arrays as high sensitive SERS substrate
Authors: Paloly Abdul Rasheed , Bushiri M Junaid
Published: February 2021

Hybrid noble metal-semiconductor oxide nanostructures often provide unique and synergetic functionalities that are highly desirable in various practical applications. However, the fabrication of such systems with desired functionalities using cost-effective techniques is still a great challenge. In this work, we report a facile route for the preparation of novel Ag/SnO2 nano-obelisk arrayed thin films on silicon substrates by spray pyrolysis and thermal evaporation techniques. The prepared samples exhibited broadband antireflectance in both UV and visible regions attributed to the refractive index gradient and scattering provided by the nano-obelisk arrays. The localised surface plasmon resonance of silver nanocaps further enhanced the light absorption contributing to the antireflective property of the hybrid system. Ag/SnO2 nano-obelisk arrayed thin film exhibited excellent SERS performance with an enhancement factor of 1.13 × 108 with a limit of detection value of 10−12 M for the trace detection of R6G dye. In addition, Ag/SnO2 nano-obelisk arrayed thin film based SERS substrate exhibited good homogeneity across the measured spots and outstanding stability which are essential for quantitative field analysis. The results indicate that the Ag/SnO2 nano-obelisk arrayed thin films are efficient SERS substrates with the merits of having the ease of production, high sensitivity and stability for various practical sensing applications.
Dual covalent functionalization of single-walled carbon nanotubes for effective targeted cancer therapy
Authors: Assali Mohyeddin , Kittana Naim , Dayyeh Safa’ , Khiar Noureddine
Published: February 2021

Chemotherapy is a mainstay strategy in the management of cancer. Regrettably, current chemotherapeutic agents are cytotoxic not only to cancer cells but also to healthy cells, resulting in dose-limiting serious side effects. Therefore, many researchers are eager to develop new drug delivery systems that may help to decrease the side effects and the target delivery of chemotherapy to cancer cells. One of the epochal drug delivery systems in this field is based on carbon nanotubes technology. The aim of this work is the dual covalent functionalization of single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) with doxorubicin (DOX) connected with acid-labile linkage and mannose (Man) as a targeting agent. The characterization of the developed nano-drug by transmission electron microscopy showed good dispersibility of the functionalized SWCNTs with diameters (6–10) nm. Moreover, the percentage of functionalization was determined by thermogravimetric analysis showing 25% of functionalization in the case of SWNCTs-NHN-DOX (7) and 51% for SWCNTs-Man-NHN-DOX (11). The in vitro release profile of Dox from SWNCTs-NHN-DOX (7) showed 45% of the loaded drug was released over 18 h at pH 7.4 and almost complete release at pH 6.4 at 37 °C. However, the in vitro release profile of Dox from SWCNTs-Man-NHN-DOX (11) showed 75% of the loaded drug was released over 5 h at pH 6.4 at 37 °C. The cytotoxic effect of the compounds was studied on liver cancer cells (HepG2) at different concentrations and different pH conditions and was compared with DOX alone. The cytotoxicity of compounds SWCNTs-NHN-DOX (7) and SWCNTs-Man-NHN-DOX (11) was enhanced at pH 6.5, where the cell viability in both test compounds was significantly reduced by almost 50% compared to the cell viability at pH 7.4 for the same test compound Moreover, the pre-incubation of cells with different concentrations of mannose reduced the cytotoxicity of compound (11) by more than 50%, suggesting that the entry of this complex could be at least in part facilitated by mannose receptors, which imparts this complex a kind of selectivity for cancer cells that overexpress this type of receptors.
Multi-modal commutative dynamics in semi-crystalline polymers undergoing multiple shape memory behavior
Authors: Wang Xiaodong , Lu Haibao , Gorbacheva Galina , Hossain Mokarram , Fu Yong Qing
Published: February 2021

Semi-crystalline polymers offer great opportunities for design and tuning of multi-shape memory effect (multi-SME) through their programmable melting transitions. However, coexistence of amorphous and crystalline components as well as their multiple interfaces results in complex cooperative dynamics. In this study, we propose a one-dimensional multi-modal dynamic model to describe the commutative and cooperative dynamics in semi-crystalline shape memory polymers undergoing multi-SME. A three-phase model and Takayanagi principle are firstly applied to study the cooperative dynamics of amorphous/crystalline components and their interfaces. Phase transition theory and modified Avrami theory are used to model the cooperative dynamics of glass and melting transitions, respectively. Commutative dynamics and glass/melting transitions are further investigated to achieve on-demand multi-SME and shape recovery behaviors. Finally, effectiveness of the newly established model was demonstrated to predict triple-SMEs and quadruple-SMEs in semi-crystalline polymers reported in literature, and the theoretically obtained results show good agreements with the experimental ones.
Stable and functional solutions of the Klein-Fock-Gordon equation with nonlinear physical phenomena
Authors: Alam Md Nur , Bonyah Ebenezer , Fayz-Al-Asad Md , Osman M S , Abualnaja Kholod M
Published: February 2021

The present article uses a modified

G
′

G

-expansion method and the generalized Kudryashov method on Klein-Fock-Gordon (KFG) equation and receives some stable and functional solutions. The obtained results are checked by putting backwards into the physical model and are very beneficial over various existing processes. The diverse variety of stable and functional outcomes such as kink-type shape, bright and dark lump shape, bright and dark singular kinky shape, periodic bright and dark lump shape, multiple bright and dark lump shape, the lump with rough wave shape, the rough wave shape and the kinky shape are taken. The above procedure could also be employed to get stable and functional solutions for other integral and fractional nonlinear models in physics, mathematics, and engineering.
Enhancing Direct Exoplanet Spectroscopy with Apodizing and Beam Shaping Optics
Authors: Calvin Benjamin , Jovanovic Nemanja , Ruane Garreth , Pezzato Jacklyn , Colborn Jennah , Echeverri Daniel , Schofield Tobias , Porter Michael , Wallace J. Kent , Delorme Jacques-Robert , Mawet Dimitri
Published: February 2021

Direct exoplanet spectroscopy aims to measure the spectrum of an exoplanet while simultaneously minimizing the light collected from its host star. Isolating the planet light from the starlight improves the signal-to-noise ratio (S/N) per spectral channel when noise due to the star dominates, which may enable new studies of the exoplanet atmosphere with unprecedented detail at high spectral resolution (>30,000). However, the optimal instrument design depends on the flux level from the planet and star compared to the noise due to other sources, such as detector noise and thermal background. Here we present the design, fabrication, and laboratory demonstration of specially-designed optics to improve the S/N in two potential regimes in direct exoplanet spectroscopy with adaptive optics instruments. The first is a pair of beam-shaping lenses that increase the planet signal by improving the coupling efficiency into a single-mode fiber at the known position of the planet. The second is a grayscale apodizer that reduces the diffracted starlight for planets at small angular separations from their host star. The former especially increases S/N when dominated by detector noise or thermal background, while the latter helps reduce stellar noise. We show good agreement between the theoretical and experimental point spread functions in each case and predict the exposure time reduction (∼33%) that each set of optics provides in simulated observations of 51 Eridani b using the Keck Planet Imager and Characterizer instrument at W. M. Keck Observatory.
Programmable quantum processor implemented with superconducting circuit
Authors: Jiang Nian-Quan , Liang Xi , Wang Ming-Feng
Published: February 2021

A quantum processor might execute certain computational tasks exponentially faster than a classical processor. Here, using superconducting quantum circuits we design a powerful universal quantum processor with the structure of symmetric all-to-all capacitive connection. We present the Hamiltonian and use it to demonstrate a full set of qubit operations needed in the programmable universal quantum computations. With the device the unwanted crosstalk and ZZ-type couplings between qubits can be effectively suppressed by tuning gate voltages, and the design allows efficient and high-quality couplings of qubits. Within available technology, the scheme may enable a practical programmable universal quantum computer.
High yield polar direct drive fusion neutron sources at the National Ignition Facility
Authors: Yeamans C.B. , Kemp G.E. , Walters Z.B. , Whitley H.D. , McKenty P.W. , Garcia E.M. , Yang Y. , Craxton R.S. , Blue B.E.
Published: February 2021

Polar direct drive neutron source experiments were performed at the National Ignition Facility showing substantial improvement in total neutron yield and efficiency of conversion of laser energy to fusion output. Plastic capsules 3–4 mm in diameter were filled with 1.5 mg/cc of deuterium–tritium (DT) fuel and imploded with laser beam pointing and defocus designed to compensate for polar asymmetry introduced by the facility beam entrance angles. Radiation-hydrodynamics simulations were employed to optimize the multi-dimensional laser and target parameter space, within facility and target fabrication constraints. Ensembles of 1D simulations tuned to match the outputs of early shots in the series were used to design subsequent shots in the series. This allowed the later shots to be designed based on empirically motivated sensitivities to laser and target input parameters, while eliminating the need to explicitly model phenomena such as hydrodynamic instabilities and nonlinear laser–plasma interactions. One experiment with a 3.0 mm diameter CH capsule produced 13.6 kJ (4.81 × 1015 DT neutrons) from a laser input below the NIF optics damage threshold at 585 kJ, 328 TW. Two experiments with 4.0 mm capsules produced 31.3 and 33.6 kJ of fusion output (1.11 × 1016 and 1.19 × 1016 DT neutrons) with 1.10 MJ, 390 TW and 1.26 MJ, 425 TW of laser input, respectively.
Sum rules for the supersymmetric eight-vertex model
Authors: Brasseur Sandrine , Hagendorf Christian
Published: February 2021

The eight-vertex model on the square lattice with vertex weights a, b, c, d obeying the relation (a
2 + ab)(b
2 + ab) = (c
2 + ab)(d
2 + ab) is considered. Its transfer matrix with L = 2n + 1, n ⩾ 0, vertical lines and periodic boundary conditions along the horizontal direction has the doubly-degenerate eigenvalue Θ
n
= (a + b)2n+1. A basis of the corresponding eigenspace is investigated. Several scalar products involving the basis vectors are computed in terms of a family of polynomials introduced by Rosengren and Zinn-Justin. These scalar products are used to find explicit expressions for particular entries of the vectors. The proofs of these results are based on the generalisation of the eigenvalue problem for Θ
n
to the inhomogeneous eight-vertex model.
Assessment of Geomagnetically Induced Currents in Low Latitude Regions with respect to Severe Geomagnetic Storm over Solar Cycle 24
Authors: Iffah Abd Latiff Zatul , Huzaimy Jusoh Mohamad , Burhanudin Kharismi
Published: February 2021

Space Weather Perturbation – driven Geomagnetically Induced Currents (GIC) can cause the adverse impact to series of ground technological instruments. Power networks are the most affected technological facilities that experience malfunctions due to GIC phenomenon. High latitude regions experience more power network operation flaws due to this natural threat compared to mid latitude and low latitude regions. However different event of solar activities exhibit different space weather perturbations impacts regionally. Therefore, in this study, a thorough analysis of GIC activities during 6 severe geomagnetic storms in low latitude regions over solar cycle 24 based on Time Derivative of Horizontal Component of Geomagnetic Field (dH/dt) analysis are conducted. The results revealed that there is non-uniform latitudinal distribution of averaged dH/dt value in low latitude region and high GIC occurrences are observed during dayside. The correlation analysis between Solar Wind Parameters and GIC activities depicted that solar wind dynamic pressure (Psw) and Solar wind input energy (ε) act as Solar wind driver for the occurrences of GIC in low latitude region.
Behaviour of Geomagnetic storm, horizontal geomagnetic field and solar wind parameters during solar flare and CMEs event.
Authors: Syed Zafar S N A , Hazmin S N , Jusoh M H , Dagang A N , Adzni M A M , Umar R
Published: February 2021

Space weather is driven by solar activities by pulling out the variety of phenomenon such as solar flare and coronal mass ejection (CMEs). It been discovered the CMEs and solar flares have causes disturbance at near-Earth space. This paper is to examined the behaviour of geomagnetic storm, horizontal geomagnetic field and several solar wind parameters during solar flare and CMEs event at minimum of solar cycle of 24. Observational result found that association of strongest solar flare and CMEs have declined the geomagnetic storm until -150nt at 8th September 2017. Following to this, the H component reading also slightly decreased at three magnetometer location respectively. Solar flare and CMEs released the energetic particles that could disturbed the radio communications at the Earth and electronic equipment. Therefore, it was required to study and understanding the solar flare and CMEs event.
Defining different type of CEJ currents based on ground-based geomagnetic data record at Langkawi station, Malaysia
Authors: Rosli N I M , Hamid N S A , Abdullah M , Yoshikawa A
Published: February 2021

A negative decrement in geomagnetic data in equatorial region is not necessarily cause by the well-known counter electrojet, CEJ but it is also can be affected by solar activity such as a solar flare. Relying on this matter, we did a comparison between CEJ and unusual solar flare effect called as SFE* on geomagnetic data before introducing several types of CEJ that can be extracted from EUEL index. This study used ground data from MAGDAS network located in Langkawi (LKW) with 1-minutes resolution during solar cycle 24 and applied EUEL index. From the results, it is crucial to ensure the minimum duration of EUEL depletion is within an hour because less than an hour depletion could be possibly cause by solar activity. Four interval of time that has been introduced in our study composed of several types of CEJ which are morning CEJ, afternoon CEJ and evening CEJ, with additional the controversial CEJ occurrence which is night CEJ. We also successfully demonstrated a rare CEJ occurrence that associated with solar flare effect using EUEL index.