bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Performance study on enlarged‐clarifier hybrid upflow anaerobic sludge blanket reactor for treating the slaughterhouse wastewater
Authors: Loganath Radhakrishnan , Mazumder Debabrata
Published: March 2020

The performance of an Enlarged‐Clarifier Hybrid Upflow Anaerobic Sludge Blanket (EC‐HUASB) reactor in treating slaughterhouse wastewater under the mesophilic temperature was studied. The reactor was started‐up with the well‐grown anaerobic digested sludge from a dairy farm, which was subsequently acclimated with real slaughterhouse wastewater. The Clarifier section of the HUASB was also enlarged to improve its performance for removal of Total Suspended Solids (TSS). The reactor performance was monitored in respect of pH, MLSS, MLVSS, COD, Volatile Fatty Acids (VFAs) and Alkalinity. The performance of EC‐HUASB reactor was studied under the organic loading rate (OLR) ranging between 3.03 and 38.19 kg COD/m3/day under the hydraulic retention time (HRT) of 24 and 6 h respectively. Maximum values of COD and TSS removal were recorded as 95.8 and 98% respectively under the OLR of 18.75 kg COD/m3/day at 10 h HRT, which also exhibited 61.5 L/day of methane production.
A revised classification of temperate lowland groundwater‐fed headwater streams based on their flora
Authors: Westwood Christian G. , England Judy , Johns Tim , Stubbington Rachel
Published: March 2020

Prolonged drought leads to the temporary simplification or loss of aquatic biological communities, as surface water is progressively reduced or dry phases are extended in intermittent streams. Using surveys of aquatic and semi‐aquatic plants, and recording non‐aquatic grasses and herbs, we classify the communities within 24 groundwater‐fed streams in south England. We examine changes over a 21‐year period following a 3‐year drought. Our classification reveals a simplification of communities driven by a decline in the abundance of obligate aquatic taxa and an increase in the abundance of semi‐aquatic taxa. We demonstrate plant community structure as a strong indicator of a site’s flow history, including intermittence, but interactions with channel morphology also influence communities and need further investigation. We recommend that future surveys encompass terrestrial, semi‐aquatic and aquatic plants, as well as habitat assessments, to improve the understanding of how instream communities change between flowing, ponded and dry phases in intermittent streams.
NESTED CIRCULAR ELLIPTICAL SHAPED MIXED LOOP RESONATOR BASED BANDPASS FILTER FOR MICROWAVE APPLICATIONS / PENAPIS JALUR BERASASKAN CAMPURAN GEGELUNG PENYALUN BERBENTUK SARANG BULAT UNTUK APLIKASI GELOMBANG MIKRO
Authors: Iqbal Farque Mohammad Rashed , Alam Md. Jubaer , Roslan Muhamad Roszaini , Islam Mohammad Tariqul
Published: March 2020

An elliptical thumb printed nested circular mixed loop resonator (MLR) is introduced in this article to design a multiple bandpass filter for microwave applications. The proposed structure is composed of a series of loop resonators on a Rogers RT-5880 dielectric substrate, where the overall system is developed into a 377Ω framework. Similar structure is designed on both sides of the substrate and an investigation is made on scattering parameters, relative permittivity, permeability, refractive index and current distributions. The 12 ´ 14 mm2 structure is designed and evaluated by a simulation software CST microwave studio and the metamaterial characteristics have been classified by Nicolson-Ross-Weir method at the filtering frequencies. The proposed filter shows resonances at 2.65 GHz, 5.85 GHz, 7.12 GHz, and 8.59 GHz, and the measured results are compared with the simulated ones. With a favorable design and double-negative characteristics, this design is suitable for multiple bandpass filter particularly for S, C, and X-band applications.
NEW 2,4,5-TRISUBSTITUTED-1,3-THIAZOLE DERIVATIVES: SYNTHESIS, IN VITRO ANTIMICROBIAL ACTIVITY AND IN SILICO STUDY
Authors: Abdullah Ripain Iswatun Hasanah , Susanti Deny , Muhamad Bunnori Noraslinda , Ngah Nurziana
Published: March 2020

A series of thiazole derivatives 1-4 were synthesized employing simple one-pot reaction pathway and characterized via Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR), Proton Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (1H NMR), Ultraviolet-Visible (UV-Vis) and Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS). The newly synthesized compounds were evaluated for their in vitro antimicrobial properties against several bacterial strains including Gram-positive and Gram-negative as well as fungus using broth microdilution method. The results revealed that all of the compounds exhibited good activity with a range of MIC values between 1.25-5.0 mg/mL. From the MIC and MBC results, compound 1 exhibited good activities with same MIC value of 1.25 mg/mL and MBC value of 5 mg/mL against B. cereus and S. flexneri. In order to support antimicrobial results, the molecular docking studies were carried out for inhibition of the GlcN-6-P synthase as the target. Out of four compounds underwent for molecular docking studies, 5-acetyl-4-methyl-2-(4-aminobiphenyl)-1,3-thiazole (1) shows the lowest minimum binding energy at -7.32 kcal/mol as compared to 2, 3 and 4 with -7.31, -7.20 and -6.76 kcal/mol, respectively which are in agreement with antimicrobial assay results. In conclusion, 2, 4, 5-trisubstituted- 1,3- thiazole derivatives could be considered as promising antimicrobial in drug discovery candidates.
COMPARISON OF GEOMETRICAL CHARACTERISTICS AGAINST ROTATING SHAFT VIBRATION
Authors: Jafri K. , Ramli Rizauddin , Azman Abdul Hadi
Published: March 2020

Geometrical dimensioning and tolerance (GD&T) are an important element of the industry that uses high-speed rotation. Poor geometrical tolerance (GT) to components will cause the rotor to become unbalanced. Unbalanced rotor and shaft misalignment are the two major sources of vibration in the rotating system. This paper compares geometrical characteristics (GCs) to investigate the effects of vibrations generated by different GCs. Only four GC shafts were compared, straightness, parallelism, cylindricity, and concentricity, referring to the GD&T standard as ASME Y14.5-2009. These four GCs were selected owing to their direct involvement in the rotating system. Specimens are constructed with parameters of the same dimensions, length, and GT values only differ from GCs. Specimens were measured using a digital gage to find the GT value near 3000 micron at 3 mm. The magnitude of the shaft vibration during rotation was recorded using a VA-12 vibration analyzer with different rotational speeds: 510, 770, and 900 rpm. From the vibration data, the GCs’ effect on the rotation shaft will be determined. GCs are found to have significant effects on the rotation of the shaft that should be considered in the design, installation, and maintenance of rotating shafts. The impact and degree of damage to critical parts of the system can serve as a benchmark for further studies for the optimization of tolerance values and for the maintenance of component performance.
PERFORMANCE EVALUATION OF COIR PITH ASH BLENDED CEMENT CONCRETE EXPOSED TO ELEVATED TEMPERATURE
Authors: V Balagopal , Sambamurthy Viswanathan
Published: March 2020

The concrete characteristics exposed to elevated temperature are gaining importance in terms of structural stability and serviceability state assessment of the structure. This paper deals with the study on behavior of coir pith ash (CPA) blended concrete exposed to elevated temperatures. Concrete specimens were prepared by replacing cement with CPA by percentages ranging from 0% to 20%. The specimens were then subjected to thermal treatment by exposing to temperatures of 200 °C, 400 °C, 600 °C and 800 °C in an electric furnace for a duration of 1 hour after the attainment of peak temperature. After providing the exposure, the samples were cured by air cooling or water-cooling and were tested for visual observation, residual compressive strength and ultrasonic pulse velocity. It has been observed that thermal performance of CPA blended concrete was better than that of control mix sample. Also, out of the two different cooling regimes adopted, air cooling method showed better performance that water cooling.
SYNTHESIS AND CHARACTERIZATION OF LEAD-FREE PIEZOELECTRIC (K0.5Na0.5)NbO3 PRODUCED WITH IMPROVED CALCINATION TEMPERATURE
Authors: Ahmad Nor Amalina , Abdul Aziz Dzetty Soraya , Mat Daud Norni Hidayawati , Noor Rahim , Khan Amir Azam
Published: March 2020

Potassium sodium niobate (KNN) is one of the lead free piezoelectric material that catch the attention of researchers and also those in the industrial field because of its stable piezoelectric responses and environmental friendly composition. The recent development of KNN shows that many methods have been used to synthesize the KNN but the stoichiometric Ka0.5Na0.5NbO3 composition is extremely difficult to consolidate. One of the ways to overcome the problem is to precisely pre-calcine and use milling process for proper homogenization followed by natural sintering process. In this paper, attempt has been made to synthesize the KNN produced at 750 oC calcination temperature. The results of 1060oC sintering temperature for 2 hours show a good composition of KNN with orthorhombic crystal structure where the final sintered pellet can reach to a relative density up to 87.13 %.
Potential role of angiotensin‐(1–7) in the improvement of vascular insulin sensitivity after a bout of exercise
Authors: Gallardo‐Ortíz Itzell A. , Villalobos‐Molina Rafael , Echeverría‐Rodríguez Omar
Published: March 2020

NEW FINDINGS

What is the central question of this study?

What is the mechanism by which a bout of exercise increases subsequent insulin‐stimulated vasodilatation?

What is the main finding and its importance?

Angiotensin‐(1–7) through the Mas receptor participates in enhanced insulin‐induced vasorelaxation after a bout of exercise in healthy rats. This new potential role of angiotensin‐(1–7) could help in understanding how physical activity improves vascular insulin sensitivity in normal and insulin‐resistant states.

Exercise increases insulin‐stimulated vasodilatation, but the mechanisms involved are unclear. This study was performed to investigate the possible involvement of angiotensin‐(1–7) (Ang‐(1–7)), a vasoactive peptide of the renin–angiotensin system (RAS), in enhanced vascular insulin sensitivity after a bout of exercise. Male Wistar rats were subjected to swimming for 2.5 h. After exercise, carbachol‐ or insulin‐induced relaxation in aorta was assessed. Prior exercise improved insulin‐stimulated vasorelaxation; however, this insulin‐sensitizing effect was prevented by the selective Mas receptor (MasR; an Ang‐(1–7) receptor) antagonist A779. Carbachol‐mediated vascular relaxation was not modified by exercise. These results suggest that Ang‐(1–7) acting through MasR participates in the enhancement of vascular insulin sensitivity after an exercise session. This new potential role of Ang‐(1–7) could help in understanding how exercise improves vascular insulin sensitivity in normal and insulin‐resistant states.
Strength-Training Periodization: No Effect on Swimming Performance in Well-Trained Adolescent Swimmers
Authors: Schumann Moritz , Notbohm Hannah , Bäcker Simon , Klocke Jan , Fuhrmann Stefan , Clephas Christoph
Published: March 2020

Purpose: To assess the effects of periodized versus nonperiodized dry-land strength training (DLST) on indices of swimming performance in well-trained adolescent swimmers. Methods: Sixteen athletes (10 boys and 6 girls; age 14.9 [1.1] y) performed similar endurance training for 16 weeks (29.1 [7.5] km·wk−1). During weeks 1 to 7, all athletes additionally performed 2 or 3 times weekly whole-body DLST (3 × 6–10 repetitions at 75–85% 1-repetition maximum [1RM]). Thereafter, the DLST frequency was maintained, but athletes were stratified into periodized (experimental, n = 9) and nonperiodized (control, n = 7) DLST groups. The experimental group performed maximal (3 × 3–4 repetitions at 85–90% 1RM) and explosive DLST (throws and unloaded jumps), while in the control group, DLST was maintained. Results: Swimming time at 4 mmol·L−1 of blood lactate improved after 7 weeks in both the experimental (+2.6% [1.8%], P = .033) and the control groups (+3.2% [2.4%], P = .081) and plateaued thereafter. Ten-meter start improved in both the experimental (−3.6% [2.5%], P = .039) and the control groups (−5.1% [2.2%], P = .054) throughout the entire intervention. Both groups improved in maximal weight lifted in half-squat (experimental, +19.6% [14.9%], P = .021; control, +25.7% [18.4%], P = .054) and bench press (experimental, +14.1% [4.8%], P = .018; control, +19.3% [11.1%], P = .051). Countermovement-jump height increased only in the experimental group throughout the intervention (+19.4% [7.0%], P = .024). The associations for the pooled changes in half-squat performance and 4 mmol·L−1 of blood lactate were statistically significant (r = .560, P = .024). Conclusions: The findings do not support the superior effects of DLST periodization in adolescent swimmers. However, the association between improvements in lower-body strength and swimming performance still indicates the importance of muscle strength in this age group.
Bacterial and Eukaryotic Small-Subunit Amplicon Data Do Not Provide a Quantitative Picture of Microbial Communities, but They Are Reliable in the Context of Ecological Interpretations
Authors: Piwosz Kasia , Shabarova Tanja , Pernthaler Jakob , Posch Thomas , Šimek Karel , Porcal Petr , Salcher Michaela M.
Published: March 2020

High-throughput sequencing (HTS) of amplified fragments of rRNA genes provides unprecedented insight into the diversity of prokaryotic and eukaryotic microorganisms. Unfortunately, HTS data are prone to quantitative biases, which may lead to an erroneous picture of microbial community composition and thwart efforts to advance its understanding. These concerns motivated us to investigate how accurately HTS data characterize the variability of microbial communities, the relative abundances of specific phylotypes, and their relationships with environmental factors in comparison to an established microscopy-based method. We compared results obtained by HTS and catalyzed reporter deposition-fluorescence
in situ
hybridization (CARD-FISH) from three independent aquatic time series for both prokaryotic and eukaryotic microorganisms (almost 900 data points, the largest obtained with both methods so far). HTS and CARD-FISH data disagree with regard to relative abundances of bacterial and eukaryotic phylotypes but identify similar environmental drivers shaping bacterial and eukaryotic communities.
Activity of fructose-1,6-bisphosphatase fromCampylobacter jejuni
Authors: Ayna Adnan , Moody Peter C.E.
Published: March 2020

The glycolytic pathway of the enteric pathogen Campylobacter jejuni is incomplete; the absence of phosphofructokinase means that the suppression of futile cycling at this point in the glycolytic–gluconeogenic pathway might not be required, and therefore the mechanism for controlling pathway flux is likely to be quite different or absent. In this study, the characteristics of fructose-1,6-bisphosphatase (FBPase) of C. jejuni are described and the regulation of this enzyme is compared with the equivalent enzymes from organisms capable of glycolysis. The enzyme is insensitive to AMP inhibition, unlike other type I FBPases. Campylobacter jejuni FBPase also shows limited sensitivity to other glycolytic and gluconeogenic intermediates. The allosteric cooperative control of the enzyme’s activity found in type I FBPases appears to have been lost.
Otolith shape as a classification tool for Chinook salmon (Oncorhynchus tshawytscha) discrimination in native and introduced systems
Authors: Koeberle Alexander L. , Arismendi Ivan , Crittenden Whitney , Di Prinzio Cecilia , Gomez-Uchida Daniel , Noakes David L.G. , Richardson Shannon
Published: March 2020

Chinook salmon (Oncorhynchus tshawytscha) are widely distributed across the globe, with native stocks in the North Pacific Ocean and self-sustained populations in both the Northern and Southern hemispheres. In their native range, Chinook salmon face many conservation and management challenges, including depleted stocks, loss of genetic diversity, and hatchery influences, whereas naturalized range expansion poses a threat to novel ecosystems. Therefore, ways to improve stock discrimination would be a useful tool for fishery managers. Here, we evaluated otolith shape variation in Chinook salmon as a potential tool for stock discrimination using wavelet coefficients and Fourier harmonics in three case studies at multiple spatial scales. We adopted a simple Classification Tree model that used otolith shape variation to separate Chinook salmon groups. We found best performance of the model occurring between hemispheres, followed by Oregon basins, within-watershed Elk River, Oregon, and lastly among South American basins. Otolith shape analysis is a promising tool for stock discrimination if used in conjunction with other methods to better understand plasticity of anadromous species that use pan-environmental systems.
A remark on black holes of Chern–Simons gravities in 2n + 1 dimensions: n = 1,2,3
Authors: Tchrakian D. H.
Published: March 2020

A systematic prescription for constructing Chern–Simons gravities in all odd dimensions is given, and it is shown that Chern–Simons gravities in [Formula: see text] dimensions admit solutions described by the same lapse function which describes the BTZ black hole in the [Formula: see text] case. This has been carried out explicitly for [Formula: see text]. Moreover, it is seen that these solutions are unique.
Finding the interaction solutions to the dimensionally reduced equations based on computerized symbolic computation
Authors: Zhu Jiang-Tao , Lü Xing , Cheng Jian-Hua
Published: March 2020

With symbolic computation, we study two dimensionally reduced nonlinear equations, which are cast into bilinear forms firstly. The interaction solutions between lump and soliton are computed, respectively, for these two equations. Hereby, we assume the solution to the bilinear equation consisting of a sum of two squares functions and a cosh function. With limitation analysis and graphical illustrations, the interaction process is simulated based on the expressions of the interaction solutions. We find the lump interacts with the soliton, and moves from the one hump (e.g. the left or the right hump) of the soliton to the other one (the right or the left hump).
The vein-hosted copper deposits of the Allihies mining area, SW Ireland; a new structural and chronological evaluation
Authors: Lang Jürgen , Meere Patrick A. , Unitt Richard P. , Johnson Sean C. , Solferino Giulio , Torremans Koen , Selby David , Kyne Roisin
Published: March 2020

This paper presents new data for historical vein-hosted copper sulfide deposits in the Late Paleozoic Munster and South Munster basins of SW Ireland. Detailed mapping, 3D modelling, fluid inclusion microthermometry and geochronology from the Allihies area of the Beara Peninsula have led to a new interpretation of the timing and development of ore mineralization. Macro- and microstructural studies reveal that the ore-bearing, mainly east–west-striking quartz veins are directly related to early extensional, basinal normal faults. Molybdenite Re–Os dating of the main-stage Cu lode yields ages from 367.3 ± 5.5 to 366.4 ± 1.9 Ma. This early vein system experienced subsequent late Carboniferous Variscan deformation, including cleavage development, sinistral SW–NE strike-slip faulting, cataclastic deformation and recrystallization. The new timing of Cu mineralization in SW Ireland has major implications for its relationship to the base metal deposits of the Irish Midlands.

Supplementary material:
A video file showing a 3D model of the major lodes and the underground workings at Mountain Mine, and Excel spreadsheets showing fluid inclusion measurements and sample locations of the Allihies Copper Mining District are available at
https://doi.org/10.6084/m9.figshare.c.4875015
Syn-kinematic ferroan high-K I-type granites from Dschang in southwestern Cameroon: U–Pb age, geochemistry and implications for crustal growth in the late Pan-African orogeny
Authors: Kwékam Maurice , Dunkl István , Fozing Eric Martial , Hartmann Gerald , Njanko Théophile , Tcheumenak Kouémo Jules , Njonfang Emmanuel
Published: March 2020

The Dschang granites, SW Cameroon, are post-Panafrican granitoids, hosted in Paleoproterozoic orthogneiss in the Western domain of the Central African fold belt. They include coarse-grained K-feldspar biotite granite and fine-grained magnetite granite. Magnetite forms nodules surrounded by a quartzo-feldsparthic halo. Major and trace element data of both granites show high SiO
2
, Al
2
O
3
, total alkalis and Ba and low TiO
2
, MgO, P
2
O
5
and Nb contents, conferring a fractionated I-type high-K alkali-calcic and weakly peraluminous character. Both granites are enriched in light rare earth elements and large ion lithophile elements, depleted in high field strength elements, and show a rare earth element pattern with Eu/Eu* = 0.3 to 0.9. Primitive mantle-normalized spidergrams display negative Nb, Ta and Ti anomalies, typical of their derivation from subduction-related post-collisional melt. Laser inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry U–Pb data on zircons yielded crystallization ages of 578 +7/−11 Ma and 563+8/−3 Ma for the biotite and magnetite granites respectively. Inherited zircon (1991–1442 Ma), whole-rock Nd model ages in the range 2.1–1.9 Ga, highly negative
ε
Ndt
(−16 to −18) and initial
87
Sr/
86
Sr ratios in the range 0.7075–0.7114, support the remobilization of a Paleoproterozoic crust. The felsic magmas were probably produced by partial melting of Paleoproterozoic orthogneiss host rocks, under oxidizing conditions. Magnetite granite is also known from the Nkambé region. Such granites from both the Dschang and Nkambé regions suggest the presence of a Paleoproterozoic domain rich in iron mineralization. This domain potentially represents a Cu, Pb, Zn and Mo metallogenic province, heavily reworked during the Pan-African orogeny.
The Composite-File File System
Authors: Zhang Shuanglong , Roy Robert , Rumancik Leah , Wang An-I Andy
Published: March 2020

The design and implementation of traditional file systems typically use the one-to-one mapping of logical files to their physical metadata representations. File system optimizations generally follow this rigid mapping and miss opportunities for an entire class of optimizations.

We designed, implemented, and evaluated a composite-file file system, which allows many-to-one mappings of files to metadata. Through exploring different mapping strategies, our empirical evaluation shows up to a 27% performance improvement under web server and software development workloads, for both disks and SSDs. This result demonstrates that our approach of relaxing file-to-metadata mapping is promising.
How Secure Is Split Manufacturing in Preventing Hardware Trojan?
Authors: Yang Yajun , Chen Zhang , Liu Yuan , Ho Tsung-Yi , Jin Yier , Zhou Pingqiang
Published: March 2020

With the trend of outsourcing fabrication, split manufacturing is regarded as a promising way to both acquire the high-end nodes in untrusted external foundries and protect the design from potential attackers. However, in this article, we show that split manufacturing is not inherently secure, that a hardware Trojan attacker can still recover necessary information with a proximity-based or a simulated-annealing-based mapping approach together with a probability-based or net-based pruning method at the placement level. We further propose a defense approach by moving the insecure gates away from their easily attacked candidate locations. Results on benchmark circuits show the effectiveness of our proposed methods.
An epidemiology-inspired, large-scale analysis of mobile app accessibility
Authors: Ross Anne Spencer
Published: March 2020

My research explores large-scale analysis of mobile application accessibility, with a goal of expanding the types of accessibility barriers for which applications are tested and the ways in which results are presented. I am basing my research in a novel epidemiology-inspired framework that we developed for structuring the examination of mobile application accessibility. It frames accessibility as a product of diverse factors within the rich ecosystem in which applications are created, maintained, and used. The framework proposes large-scale analysis as a method for understanding the state of accessibility. My completed work applies this framework by conducting a large-scale analysis of an existing dataset of Android applications, assessing them for label-based accessibility barriers on image-based buttons. My future work will extend this research to analyze current applications at scale and expand the accessibility barriers that are tested for.
Swine Disease Models for Optimal Vascular Engineering
Authors: Sturek Michael , Alloosh Mouhamad , Sellke Frank W.
Published: March 2020

Swine disease models are essential for mimicry of human metabolic and vascular pathophysiology, thereby enabling high-fidelity translation to human medicine. The worldwide epidemic of obesity, metabolic disease, and diabetes has prompted the focus on these diseases in this review. We highlight the remarkable similarity between Ossabaw miniature swine and humans with metabolic syndrome and atherosclerosis. Although the evidence is strongest for swine models of coronary artery disease, findings are generally applicable to any vascular bed. We discuss the major strengths and weaknesses of swine models. The development of vascular imaging is an example of optimal vascular engineering in swine. Although challenges regarding infrastructure and training of engineers in the use of swine models exist, opportunities are ripe for gene editing, studies of molecular mechanisms, and use of swine in coronary artery imaging and testing of devices that can move quickly to human clinical studies.
Sociology and the Climate Crisis
Authors: Klinenberg Eric , Araos Malcolm , Koslov Liz
Published: March 2020

What would it mean for sociology to make climate change a core disciplinary concern? This article reviews research on a selection of trends brought on by the climate crisis: ( a) compounding and cumulative disasters, infrastructure breakdown, and adaptation; ( b) intensifying migration and shifting patterns of settlement; and ( c) transformations in consumption, labor, and energy. While climate change's far-reaching implications remain peripheral to the discipline at large, sociologists studying these trends increasingly understand the crisis as a central problem for the study of social life. We show how sociologists can shed light on core problems emerging from and contributing to the crisis, and also reveal the conditions that make necessary social and cultural transformations more likely. Throughout, we illuminate how sociology can help chart a path out of the climate crisis by identifying alternatives to the high-carbon, low-equity social structures that organize the modern world. Finally, we identify possibilities for scholars who do not see themselves as “environmental sociologists” to contribute meaningful research on the climate crisis, and we encourage them to do so while we can make a difference.
High-temperature oxidation behaviour of AlxFeCrCoNi and AlTiVCr compositionally complex alloys
Authors: Esmaily Mohsen , Qiu Yao , Bigdeli Sedigheh , Mahesh B Venkataraman , Allanore Antoine , Birbilis Nick
Published: March 2020

Compositionally complex alloys (CCAs), also termed as high entropy alloys (HEAs) or multi-principal element alloys (MPEAs), are being considered as a potential solution for many energy-related applications comprising extreme environments and temperatures. Herein, a review of the pertinent literature is performed in conjunction with original works characterising the oxidation behaviour of two “opposing” alloys; namely a lightweight (5.06 g/cm3) single-phase AlTiVCr CCA and a multiple-phase Al0.9FeCrCoNi CCA (6.9 g/cm3). The thermogravimetric results obtained during oxidation of the alloys at 700 and 900°C revealed that while AlTiVCr revealed linear oxidation, Al0.9FeCrCoNi tended to obey the desired parabolic rate law. However, post-exposure analysis by means of electron microscopy indicated that while the oxide scale formed on the AlTiVCr is adherent to the substrate, the scale developed on the Al0.9FeCrCoNi displays a notable spalling propensity. This study highlights the need for tailoring the protective properties of the oxide scale formed on the surface of the CCAs.
Correlation of Cleanliness among Different Bowel Segments during Colonoscopy: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Haibin Zhou , Xiaofeng Zhang , Jianfeng Yang
Published: March 2020

Objective. To analyze the correlation of intestinal cleanliness in each segment of the Boston Intestinal Preparation Scale. Methods. From February 2017 to October 2019, the data of patients who underwent colonoscopy in the Department of Gastroenterology, Hangzhou First People’s Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, were collected. Statistical analysis was performed according to the Boston Intestinal Preparation Scale score, and the correlation of intestinal cleanliness in each region was obtained. Results. A total of 1739 patients were included. The overall score of BBPS was 6.77±1.88. The scores of each region were 2.04±0.84 (right lateral colon), 2.25±0.68 (transverse colon), and 2.48±0.64 (left colon). The difference between the regions was statistically significant (P<0.05). The bowel cleanliness showed a gradual deterioration trend, and there was a positive correlation between colon cleanliness in each region. The accuracy of the transverse colon in predicting the right colon (AUC=0.809) is higher than that of the left colon (AUC=0.735), and the accuracy of predicting the cleanliness of the right colon intestinal tract by the cleanliness of the left colon intestinal tract is relatively low. Conclusion. Intestinal cleanliness gradually deteriorates from the direction of the insert. It is not reliable to predict the right side of poor cleanliness by using the left colon intestinal cleanliness (BBPS 0-1 score). It should continue to further endoscopy. When the cleanliness of the transverse colon is poor, then stopping further endoscopy is considered.
Clinical Significance of Septal Malalignment for Transcatheter Closure of Atrial Septal Defect
Authors: Takaya Yoichi , Akagi Teiji , Nakagawa Koji , Nakayama Rie , Miki Takashi , Watanabe Nobuhisa , Toh Norihisa , Ito Hiroshi
Published: March 2020

Background. Septal malalignment is related to erosion and device embolization in transcatheter closure of atrial septal defect (ASD), but limited information is available. Objectives. This study aimed to assess clinical significance of septal malalignment and to determine appropriate evaluation of ASD diameter, including the selection of device size. Methods. Four hundred and seventeen patients with ASD who underwent transcatheter closure were enrolled. Septal malalignment was defined as separation between the septum primum and the septum secundum on transesophageal echocardiography. Results. One hundred and eighty-four patients had septal malalignment. The frequency of septal malalignment increased with age reaching around 50% in adult patients. Septal malalignment was related to aortic rim deficiency. The distance of separation between the septum primum and the septum secundum was 5 ± 2 mm (range, 1–11 mm). In patients with septal malalignment, the ASD diameter measured at the septum primum was 19 ± 6 mm, while the ASD diameter measured at the septum secundum was 16 ± 6 mm. There was a difference of 4 ± 2 mm (range, 0–8 mm) between the ASD diameter measured at the septum primum and that measured at the septum secundum. For transcatheter closure, the Amplatzer Septal Occluder device size 2-3 mm larger and the Occlutech Figulla Flex II device size 4–7 mm larger than the ASD diameter measured at the septum primum were frequently used. During the study period, erosion or device embolization did not occur in all of the patients. Conclusions. Septal malalignment is highly prevalent in adult patients with aortic rim deficiency. The measurement of ASD diameter at the septum primum can be valuable for the selection of device size in patients with septal malalignment.
Numerical Simulation on the Basic Rules of Multihole Linear Codirectional Hydraulic Fracturing
Authors: Lu Weiyong , Wang Yonglong , Zhang Xin
Published: March 2020

Directional rupture is one of the most important and common problems in rock breaking engineering. The purpose of directional rock breaking can be effectively realized by using multihole linear codirectional hydraulic fracturing. In this paper, realistic failure process analysis (RFPA) software is used to verify the experimental results of multihole linear codirectional hydraulic fracturing and investigate its basic law. The following results are demonstrated: (1) RFPA software can be very helpful to study the basic law of multihole linear codirectional hydraulic fracturing; (2) the process of multihole linear codirectional hydraulic fracturing can be divided into four stages: water injection boost, fracture initiation, stable fracture propagation, and fracture connection; and (3) multihole linear codirectional hydraulic fractures propagate along the direction of borehole distribution. Multihole codirectional hydraulic fracturing is influenced by the angle between the direction of the hole distribution and maximum principal stress, the difference of the principal stress, and the spacing of the boreholes. The smaller the angle, the difference value of the principal stress, and the hole spacing, the better the multihole codirectional hydraulic fracturing effect.
Risk SNP-Mediated Enhancer–Promoter Interaction Drives Colorectal Cancer through Both FADS2 and AP002754.2
Authors: Tian Jianbo , Lou Jiao , Cai Yimin , Rao Meilin , Lu Zequn , Zhu Ying , Zou Danyi , Peng Xiating , Wang Haoxue , Zhang Ming , Niu Siyuan , Li Yue , Zhong Rong , Chang Jiang , Miao Xiaoping
Published: March 2020

Although genome-wide association studies (GWAS) have identified more than 100 colorectal cancer risk loci, most of the biological mechanisms associated with these loci remain unclear. Here we first performed a comprehensive expression quantitative trait loci analysis in colorectal cancer tissues adjusted for multiple confounders to test the determinants of germline variants in established GWAS susceptibility loci on mRNA and long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) expression. Combining integrative functional genomic/epigenomic analyses and a large-scale population study consisting of 6,024 cases and 10,022 controls, we then prioritized rs174575 with a C>G change as a potential causal candidate for colorectal cancer at 11q12.2, as its G allele was associated with an increased risk of colorectal cancer (OR = 1.26; 95% confidence interval = 1.17–1.36; P = 2.57 × 10–9). rs174575 acted as an allele-specific enhancer to distally facilitate expression of both FADS2 and lncRNA AP002754.2 via long-range enhancer–promoter interaction loops, which were mediated by E2F1. AP002754.2 further activated a transcriptional activator that upregulated FADS2 expression. FADS2, in turn, was overexpressed in colorectal cancer tumor tissues and functioned as a potential oncogene that facilitated colorectal cancer cell proliferation and xenograft growth in vitro and in vivo by increasing the metabolism of PGE2, an oncogenic molecule involved in colorectal cancer tumorigenesis. Our findings represent a novel mechanism by which a noncoding variant can facilitate long-range genome interactions to modulate the expression of multiple genes including not only mRNA, but also lncRNA, which provides new insights into the understanding of colorectal cancer etiology.

Significance:

This study provides an oncogenic regulatory circuit among several oncogenes including E2F1, FADS2, and AP002754.2 underlying the association of rs174575 with colorectal cancer risk, which is driven by long-range enhancer–promoter interaction loops.
Melanoma-Secreted Lysosomes Trigger Monocyte-Derived Dendritic Cell Apoptosis and Limit Cancer Immunotherapy
Authors: Santana-Magal Nadine , Farhat-Younis Leen , Gutwillig Amit , Gleiberman Annette , Rasoulouniriana Diana , Tal Lior , Netanely Dvir , Shamir Ron , Blau Rachel , Feinmesser Meora , Zlotnik Oran , Gutman Haim , Linde Ian L. , Reticker-Flynn Nathan E. , Rider Peleg , Carmi Yaron
Published: March 2020

The recent success of checkpoint blockade therapies has established immunotherapy as one of the most promising treatments for melanoma. Nonetheless, a complete curative response following immunotherapy is observed only in a fraction of patients. To identify what factors limit the efficacy of immunotherapies, we established mouse models that cease to respond to immunotherapies once their tumors exceed a certain stage. Analysis of the immune systems of the organisms revealed that the numbers of tumor-infiltrating dendritic cells (TIDC) drastically decreased with time. Further, in contrast to the current paradigm, once melanoma was established, TIDC did not migrate into sentinel lymph nodes. Instead, they underwent local cell death due to excessive phagocytosis of lysosomes. Importantly, TIDC were required to license the cytotoxic activity of tumor CD8+ T cells, and in their absence, T cells did not lyse melanoma cells. Our results offer a paradigm shift regarding the role of TIDC and a framework to increase the efficacy of immunotherapies.

Significance:

This work redefines the role of monocyte-derived dendritic cells in melanoma and provides a novel strategy to increase the efficacy of T-cell–based immunotherapies in nonresponding individuals.
ATM Loss Confers Greater Sensitivity to ATR Inhibition Than PARP Inhibition in Prostate Cancer
Authors: Rafiei Shahrzad , Fitzpatrick Kenyon , Liu David , Cai Mu-Yan , Elmarakeby Haitham A. , Park Jihye , Ricker Cora , Kochupurakkal Bose S. , Choudhury Atish D. , Hahn William C. , Balk Steven P. , Hwang Justin H. , Van Allen Eliezer M. , Mouw Kent W.
Published: March 2020

Alterations in DNA damage response (DDR) genes are common in advanced prostate tumors and are associated with unique genomic and clinical features. ATM is a DDR kinase that has a central role in coordinating DNA repair and cell-cycle response following DNA damage, and ATM alterations are present in approximately 5% of advanced prostate tumors. Recently, inhibitors of PARP have demonstrated activity in advanced prostate tumors harboring DDR gene alterations, particularly in tumors with BRCA1/2 alterations. However, the role of alterations in DDR genes beyond BRCA1/2 in mediating PARP inhibitor sensitivity is poorly understood. To define the role of ATM loss in prostate tumor DDR function and sensitivity to DDR-directed agents, we created a series of ATM-deficient preclinical prostate cancer models and tested the impact of ATM loss on DNA repair function and therapeutic sensitivities. ATM loss altered DDR signaling, but did not directly impact homologous recombination function. Furthermore, ATM loss did not significantly impact sensitivity to PARP inhibition but robustly sensitized to inhibitors of the related DDR kinase ATR. These results have important implications for planned and ongoing prostate cancer clinical trials and suggest that patients with tumor ATM alterations may be more likely to benefit from ATR inhibitor than PARP inhibitor therapy.

Significance:

ATM loss occurs in a subset of prostate tumors. This study shows that deleting ATM in prostate cancer models does not significantly increase sensitivity to PARP inhibition but does sensitize to ATR inhibition.

See related commentary by Setton and Powell, p. 2085
Prediagnostic Circulating Levels of Sex Steroid Hormones and SHBG in Relation to Risk of Ductal Carcinoma In Situ of the Breast among UK Women
Authors: Arthur Rhonda S. , Xue Xiaonan , Rohan Thomas E.
Published: March 2020

Background:

Sex steroid hormones and sex hormone–binding globulin (SHBG) have been implicated in the etiology of invasive breast cancer, but their associations with risk of the precursor lesion, ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) of the breast, remain unclear.

Methods:

We used Cox proportional hazards regression models to estimate the associations of serum levels of estradiol (premenopausal women only), testosterone, and/or SHBG with DCIS risk among 182,935 women. After a median follow-up of 7.1 years, 186 and 531 DCIS cases were ascertained in premenopausal and postmenopausal women, respectively.

Results:

Total and free estradiol were positively associated with risk of DCIS among premenopausal women. The HRs for the highest versus the lowest tertiles were 1.54 (1.06–2.23) and 1.72 [95% confidence interval (CI), 1.15–2.57], respectively. Among postmenopausal women, elevated levels of free testosterone (FT), and to a lesser extent, total testosterone, were positively associated with DCIS risk. The HRs for the highest versus the lowest quartiles were 1.42 (95% CI, 1.09–1.85) and 1.16 (95% CI, 0.91–1.48), respectively. Serum SHBG levels were inversely associated with risk of DCIS among postmenopausal women (HRq4 vs. q1: 0.75; 95% CI, 0.56–0.99).

Conclusions:

This study suggests that elevated levels of estradiol are associated with increased risk of DCIS among premenopausal women, and that among postmenopausal women, elevated levels of testosterone, and particularly those of FT, are associated with increased DCIS risk, while elevated levels of SHBG are associated with reduced risk.

Impact:

These findings may be helpful in developing prevention strategies aimed at reducing breast cancer risk among premenopausal and postmenopausal women.
Periostin and Epithelial–Mesenchymal Transition Score as Novel Prognostic Markers for Leiomyosarcoma, Myxofibrosarcoma, and Undifferentiated Pleomorphic Sarcoma
Authors: Piano Maria Assunta , Brunello Antonella , Cappellesso Rocco , Del Bianco Paola , Mattiolo Adriana , Fritegotto Chiara , Montini Barbara , Zamuner Carolina , Del Fiore Paolo , Rastrelli Marco , Sommariva Antonio , De Salvo Gian Luca , Montesco Maria Cristina , Rossi Carlo Riccardo , Zagonel Vittorina , Calabrò Maria Luisa
Published: March 2020

Purpose:

Interpatient clinical variability in soft-tissue sarcomas (STS) highlights the need for novel prognostic markers supporting patient risk stratification. As sarcomas might exhibit a more mesenchymal or a more epithelial state, we focused on epithelial–mesenchymal and mesenchymal–epithelial transitions (EMT/MET) for prognostic clues, and selected three histotypes with variable aggressiveness.

Experimental Design:

The expression of EMT/MET-related factors was measured by qRT-PCR in 55 tumor samples from patients with leiomyosarcoma, myxofibrosarcoma, or undifferentiated pleomorphic sarcoma. The identified marker was further evaluated by IHC in 31 leiomyosarcomas and by measuring its circulating levels in 67 patients. The prognostic value of a sarcoma-tailored EMT score was analyzed. Epirubicin chemosensitivity and migration were studied in primary STS cultures. Associations with overall survival (OS) were assessed using Kaplan–Meier and Cox regression methods.

Results:

High expression of periostin, a mesenchymal matricellular protein, in sarcoma tissues (P = 0.0024), its high stromal accumulation in leiomyosarcomas (P = 0.0075), and increased circulation (>20 ng/mL, P = 0.0008) were associated with reduced OS. High periostin expression [HR 2.9; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.3–6.9; P = 0.0134] and circulation (HR 2.6; 95% CI, 1.3–5.1; P = 0.0086), and a mesenchymal EMT score (mesenchymal vs. transitioning; HR, 5.2; 95% CI, 2.1–13.0, P = 0.0005) were associated with increased risk in multivariable models. An intrinsic or induced mesenchymal state enhanced chemoresistance and migration in sarcoma cell lines.

Conclusions:

Although limited to a pilot study, these findings suggest that periostin might contribute prognostic information in the three studied STS histotypes. Moreover, a transitioning EMT score measured in the tumor might predict a less active and a more chemosensitive disease.
Patient-Reported Outcomes from the Phase III Randomized IMmotion151 Trial: Atezolizumab + Bevacizumab versus Sunitinib in Treatment-Naïve Metastatic Renal Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Atkins Michael B. , Rini Brian I. , Motzer Robert J. , Powles Thomas , McDermott David F. , Suarez Cristina , Bracarda Sergio , Stadler Walter M. , Donskov Frede , Gurney Howard , Oudard Stephane , Uemura Motohide , Lam Elaine T. , Grüllich Carsten , Quach Caroleen , Carroll Susheela , Ding Beiying , Zhu Qian (Cindy) , Piault-Louis Elisabeth , Schiff Christina , Escudier Bernard
Published: March 2020

Purpose:

Patient-reported outcomes (PRO) were evaluated in the phase III IMmotion151 trial (NCT02420821) to inform overall treatment/disease burden of atezolizumab plus bevacizumab versus sunitinib in patients with previously untreated metastatic renal cell carcinoma (mRCC).

Patients and Methods:

Patients were randomized 1:1 to receive atezolizumab 1,200 mg intravenous (i.v.) infusions every 3 weeks (q3w) plus bevacizumab 15 mg/kg i.v. q3w or sunitinib 50 mg per day orally 4 weeks on/2 weeks off. Patients completed the MD Anderson Symptom Inventory (MDASI), National Comprehensive Cancer Network Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-Kidney Symptom Index (FKSI-19), and Brief Fatigue Inventory (BFI) at baseline, q3w during treatment, at end of treatment, and during survival follow-up. Longitudinal and time to deterioration (TTD) analyses for core and RCC symptoms and their interference with daily life, treatment side-effect bother, and health-related quality of life (HRQOL) were evaluated.

Results:

The intent-to-treat population included 454 and 461 patients in the atezolizumab plus bevacizumab and sunitinib arms, respectively. Completion rates for each instrument were 83% to 86% at baseline and ≥ 70% through week 54. Milder symptoms, less symptom interference and treatment side-effect bother, and better HRQOL at most visits were reported with atezolizumab plus bevacizumab versus sunitinib. The TTD HR (95% CI) favored atezolizumab plus bevacizumab for core (HR, 0.50; 0.40–0.62) and RCC symptoms (HR, 0.45; 0.37–0.55), symptom interference (HR, 0.56; 0.46–0.68), and HRQOL (HR, 0.68; 0.58–0.81).

Conclusions:

PROs in IMmotion151 suggest lower overall treatment burden with atezolizumab plus bevacizumab compared with sunitinib in patients with treatment-naïve mRCC and provide further evidence for clinical benefit of this regimen.