bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Experimental Evaluation in Thermal Conductivity Enhancement and Heat Transfer Optimization of Eco-Friendly Al2O3–Pure Coconut Oil Based Nano Fluids
Authors: Sujith S. V. , Solanki Anand Kumar , Mulik Rahul S.
Published: August 2020

The present study reports an experimental evaluation of thermal conductivity of Al2O3/pure coconut oil nano fluids with solid volume fraction varying from 0.1% to 1.2% at a temperature ranging from 303 K to 413 K, respectively. Additionally, the thermophysical properties such as thermal diffusivity, density, and specific heat were also measured. The effect of solid volume fraction and temperature on thermophysical properties of nano fluids was examined. The results confirmed that the thermal conductivity of nano fluids was higher than that of the base fluid with an increase in the solid volume fraction and temperature. Apart from this, the efficiency of nano fluids for the heat transfer application has been evaluated for optimization based on different figures of merit. Further, the experimental thermal conductivity data were compared with different existing models and correlations as the thermal conductivity enhancement of the nano fluid is directly or indirectly a function of almost all thermophysical properties. Hence, a novel dimensionless correlation was developed for predicting the thermal conductivity of pure coconut oil/Al2O3 nano fluids in terms of almost all the thermophysical parameters calculated from the experimental data.
Study on the Performance of a Y-Shaped Liquid Cooling Heat Sink Based on Constructal Law for Electronic Chip Cooling
Authors: Lu Zhihao , Zhang Kai
Published: August 2020

The power of one rack in a data center can be greater than 3 kW, which is released within a relatively small area. However, most of the heat in a data center is released from the electronic chips. Thus, the energy consumption of the air-conditioning system in a data center will be significantly decreased if the heat released by the electronic chips can be reduced directly. Although liquid cooling heat sinks (LCHS) have been demonstrated as an effective way to resolve this problem, the application of LCHS is limited by the uneven cooling distribution on the surface of the electronic chips and the liquid leakage of the LCHS. The constructal law optimizes the design of the pipeline by introducing the freedom of deformation in the fluid geometry to obtain the optimal global performance. In this study, a novel Y-shaped liquid cooling heat sink (YLCHS) was proposed based on the constructal law, in which the cooling water enters the center of the heat sink through the inlet pipe and diffuses into the periphery through the internal Y-shaped microchannels. A numerical simulation was carried out to determine the cooling effect of the YLCHS. Compared to those of the conventional S-shaped liquid cooling heat sink (CSLCHS), the peak surface temperature and the average surface temperature of the electronic chip with YLCHS were decreased by 15.2 °C and 6.3 °C, respectively. Furthermore, the pressure loss of the electronic chip with YLCHS was also reduced by 63.0%.
Pristine, Reduced, and Alkylated Graphene Oxide as Additives to Paraffin Grease for Enhancement of Tribological Properties
Authors: Rawat Sooraj Singh , Harsha A. P. , Khatri O. P. , Wäsche Rolf
Published: August 2020

Pristine, reduced, and alkylated graphene oxides are applied as lubricating additives in paraffin grease. It has revealed that their crystalline structure governs the tribological properties of grease for steel tribo-pair. The microstructural analyses of grease samples showed that a loose fiber network of soap in the presence of graphene-based additive allows their facile release for efficient lubrication. The surface analyses based on the microscopic and elemental mapping show the development of a graphene-derived protective film on the worn scars, which protected the tribo-surfaces and subsided the wear. The reduced graphene oxide (rGO) with the interlamellar distance of 0.35 nm in the (002) plane provided minimum resistance to shear and exhibited maximum reduction in coefficient of friction (COF) for the paraffin grease. The presence of oxygen functionalities in the basal of pristine and alkylated graphene oxide (GO) compromised the interlamellar shearing under tribo-stress; consequently, higher COF than that of rGO.
Overview: State-of-the Art Commercial Membranes for Anion Exchange Membrane Water Electrolysis
Authors: Henkensmeier Dirk , Najibah Malikah , Harms Corinna , Žitka Jan , Hnát Jaromír , Bouzek Karel
Published: August 2020

One promising way to store and distribute large amounts of renewable energy is water electrolysis, coupled with transport of hydrogen in the gas grid and storage in tanks and caverns. The intermittent availability of renewal energy makes it difficult to integrate it with established alkaline water electrolysis technology. Proton exchange membrane (PEM) water electrolysis (PEMEC) is promising, but limited by the necessity to use expensive platinum and iridium catalysts. The expected solution is anion exchange membrane (AEM) water electrolysis, which combines the use of cheap and abundant catalyst materials with the advantages of PEM water electrolysis, namely, a low foot print, large operational capacity, and fast response to changing operating conditions. The key component for AEM water electrolysis is a cheap, stable, gas tight and highly hydroxide conductive polymeric AEM. Here, we present target values and technical requirements for AEMs, discuss the chemical structures involved and the related degradation pathways, give an overview over the most prominent and promising commercial AEMs (Fumatech Fumasep® FAA3, Tokuyama A201, Ionomr Aemion™, Dioxide materials Sustainion®, and membranes commercialized by Orion Polymer), and review their properties and performances of water electrolyzers using these membranes.
Using Concentrating Solar Power to Create a Geological Thermal Energy Reservoir for Seasonal Storage and Flexible Power Plant Operation
Authors: Sharan Prashant , Kitz Kevin , Wendt Daniel , McTigue Joshua , Zhu Guangdong
Published: August 2020

We propose a hybrid renewable energy system—a geothermal energy storage system (GeoTES) with solar—to provide low-cost dispatchable power at various timescales from daily, to weekly, to seasonally. GeoTES with solar uses a concentrating solar power collector field to produce hot water that is injected into a sedimentary basin to create a synthetic geothermal resource. The stored geothermal heat can then be dispatched when required by the electrical grid. GeoTES is particularly valuable for a grid with a high penetration of non-flexible renewable technologies such as photovoltaic and wind power. In this work, a sophisticated hybrid model is developed to assess the technical and economic potential of GeoTES by combining IPSEpro, which is a power-cycle simulation tool, and SAM, an economic analysis tool by National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL). The analysis shows with proper initial charging period that the heat loss in storage is almost negligible and is a suitable technology for long-term energy storage. Various power-cycle options are evaluated, and the most suitable power cycle is selected for further study. Annual calculations of the GeoTES system indicate that a levelized cost of storage (LCOS) of 12.4 ¢/kWhe can be achieved for seasonal storage of 4000 h; this value is much lower than the existing long-term storage. The LCOS of GeoTES is insensitive to the storage duration above 8 h, unlike battery and molten-salt thermal storage systems. This result demonstrates that GeoTES can be a competitive seasonal storage technology in the future electricity market. The levelized cost of electricity of the GeoTES system is also carefully analyzed and can vary between 10.0 and 16.4 ¢/kWhe, depending on solar-collector prices.
Whanaungatanga
Authors: Ross Lyana
Published: August 2020

Today I sit here on the Kapiti Coast, 60 kilometres north of Wellington, in Aotearoa New Zealand. I’m in my lounge, surrounded by my study materials, listening to a presentation via Zoom, eight weeks after our initial Covid-19 lockdown began and I think of what this time has meant to me and my peers.
Examining Institutional Entrepreneurship in the Passage of Youth Sport Concussion Legislation
Authors: Lu Landy Di , Heinze Kathryn L.
Published: August 2020

New sport policies often prompt organizations in the field to alter their structures and processes. Little is known, however, about the tactics of those leading institutional change around sport policy. To address this gap, the authors draw on the concept of institutional entrepreneurship—the activities of actors who leverage resources to create institutional change. Using a qualitative case study approach, the authors examine how two coalitions that served as institutional entrepreneurs in Washington and Oregon created and passed the first youth sport concussion legislation in the United States. The analysis of this study reveals that these coalitions (including victims’ families, sport organizations, advocacy groups, and concussion specialists) engaged in political, technical, and cultural activities through the use of specific tactics that allowed them to harness expertise and resources and generate support for the legislation. Furthermore, the findings of this study suggest a sequencing to these activities, captured in a model of institutional entrepreneurship around sport policy.
Sit-to-Stand Muscular Activity for Different Seat Backrest Inclination Levels and Execution Speeds
Authors: Tebbache Nadège , Hamaoui Alain
Published: August 2020

The sit-to-stand transfer can be separated into a postural phase (trunk flexion) and a focal phase (whole-body extension). The aim of this study was to analyze the as yet little known whole-body muscular activity characterizing each phase of this task and its variations with backrest inclination and execution speed. Fifteen muscles of the trunk and lower limbs of 10 participants were investigated using surface EMG. Results showed that backrest-induced modifications were mostly confined to the postural phase: reclining the backrest increased its duration and the activity level of the sternocleidomastoideus, the rectus and obliquus externus abdominis, and the semitendinosus. Speed-induced variations were also predominant during the postural phase, which was shortened with an increased activity of most muscles at maximal speed.
Seismological evidence for the earliest global subduction network at 2 Ga ago
Authors: Wan Bo , Yang Xusong , Tian Xiaobo , Yuan Huaiyu , Kirscher Uwe , Mitchell Ross N.
Published: August 2020

Seismic imaging of Earth’s crust shows signs that subduction became a global phenomenon about 2 billion years ago.
Estrogen receptor α controls metabolism in white and brown adipocytes by regulating
Polg1
and mitochondrial remodeling
Authors: Zhou Zhenqi , Moore Timothy M. , Drew Brian G. , Ribas Vicent , Wanagat Jonathan , Civelek Mete , Segawa Mayuko , Wolf Dane M. , Norheim Frode , Seldin Marcus M. , Strumwasser Alexander R. , Whitney Kate A. , Lester Ellen , Reddish Britany R. , Vergnes Laurent , Reue Karen , Rajbhandari Prashant , Tontonoz Peter , Lee Jason , Mahata Sushil K. , Hewitt Sylvia C. , Shirihai Orian , Gastonbury Craig , Small Kerrin S. , Laakso Markku , Jensen Jorgen , Lee Sindre , Drevon Christian A. , Korach Kenneth S. , Lusis Aldons J. , Hevener Andrea L.
Published: August 2020

ERα gene expression is heritable in humans and prevents obesity in mice by improving mitochondrial function via adipocyte
Polg1
expression.
Advances in Molecular Diagnosis of Tuberculosis
Authors: MacLean Emily , Kohli Mikashmi , Weber Stefan F. , Suresh Anita , Schumacher Samuel G. , Denkinger Claudia M. , Pai Madhukar
Published: August 2020

Molecular tests for tuberculosis (TB) have the potential to help reach the three million people with TB who are undiagnosed or not reported each year and to improve the quality of care TB patients receive by providing accurate, quick results, including rapid drug-susceptibility testing. The World Health Organization (WHO) has recommended the use of molecular nucleic acid amplification tests (NAATs) tests for TB detection instead of smear microscopy, as they are able to detect TB more accurately, particularly in patients with paucibacillary disease and in people living with HIV.
Complete and Draft Genome Sequences of Amino Acid-Producing Corynebacterium glutamicum Strains ATCC 21799 and ATCC 31831 and Their Genomic Islands
Authors: Kawaguchi Hideo , Sazuka Takashi , Kondo Akihiko
Published: August 2020

We determined the complete and draft genome sequences of two strains of
Corynebacterium glutamicum
and revealed their genomic islands (GEIs). The two strains, ATCC 21799 and ATCC 31831, were found to have 3,079 and 3,109 coding sequences, respectively, with 13 GEIs each not present in the reference strain, ATCC 13032.
Draft Genome Sequence of
Streptomyces
sp. Strain ventii, Isolated from a Microbial Mat near Hydrothermal Vents within the Axial Seamount in the Pacific Ocean, and Resequencing of the Type Strains Streptomyces lonarensis NCL 716 and Streptomyces bohaiensis 11A07
Authors: Loughran Rachel M. , Mitchell Edward A. , Vining Oliver B. , Gallegos David A. , Deadmond Monica C. , Wasson Benjamin J. , Pfannmuller Kaysa M. , Paddock Brie E. , Koyack Marc J. , Oline David K. , Ushijima Blake , Saw Jimmy H. , McPhail Kerry L. , Videau Patrick
Published: August 2020

The draft genome of
Streptomyces
sp. strain ventii, an environmental isolate recovered from deep-sea hydrothermal vents in the Pacific Ocean, is presented along with the resequenced draft genomes of the type strains
Streptomyces bohaiensis
11A07 and
Streptomyces lonarensis
NCL 716.
Terabase Metagenome Sequencing of Grassland Soil Microbiomes
Authors: Nelson William C. , Anderson Lindsey N. , Wu Ruonan , McDermott Jason E. , Bell Sheryl L. , Jumpponen Ari , Fansler Sarah J. , Tyrrell Kimberly J. , Farris Yuliya , Hofmockel Kirsten S. , Jansson Janet K.
Published: August 2020

To enable an in-depth survey of the metabolic potential of complex soil microbiomes, we performed ultra-deep metagenome sequencing, collecting >1 Tb of sequence data from three grassland soils representing different precipitation regimes.
Forearc magmatic evolution during subduction initiation: Insights from an Early Cretaceous Tibetan ophiolite and comparison with the Izu-Bonin-Mariana forearc
Authors: Dai Jin-Gen , Wang Cheng-Shan , Stern Robert J. , Yang Kai , Shen Jie
Published: August 2020

Subduction initiation is a key process in the operation of plate tectonics. Our understanding of melting processes and magmatic evolution during subduction initiation has largely been developed from studies of the Izu-Bonin-Mariana forearc. Many suprasubduction zone ophiolites are analogous to the Izu-Bonin-Mariana forearc sequence. However, whether there are differences between Izu-Bonin-Mariana subduction initiation sequences and suprasubduction zone ophiolites remains unclear. Here, we report field geological, geochemical, and geochronological data from mafic and felsic rocks in the Xigaze ophiolite (southern Tibet) mantle and crustal section; the same types of published data from both this ophiolite and the Izu-Bonin-Mariana forearc are compiled for comparison. The ophiolite section is intruded by various late-stage dikes, including gabbroic pegmatite, diabase, basalt, and plagiogranite. The compositions of clinopyroxene and amphibole suggest that gabbroic pegmatite formed from hydrous high-SiO2 depleted melts, while whole-rock compositions of basaltic and diabase dikes show negative Nb and Ta anomalies, suggesting flux melting of depleted mantle. Along with the mafic rocks, plagiogranite has a roughly constant content of La and Yb with increasing SiO2 contents, implying hydrous melting of mafic amphibolite. Early-stage pillow basalts exhibit geochemical affinities with Izu-Bonin-Mariana forearc basalts, but they are slightly enriched. Synthesized with the regional geological setting and compared with Izu-Bonin-Mariana forearc magmatism, we propose that the transition from mid-ocean ridge basalt–like lavas to subduction-related mafic and felsic dikes records an Early Cretaceous subduction initiation event on the southern flank of the Lhasa terrane. However, the mantle sources and the magmatic evolution in the Xigaze ophiolite are more variable than those for the Izu-Bonin-Mariana forearc.
Pulmonary embolism: update on management and controversies
Authors: Duffett Lisa , Castellucci Lana A , Forgie Melissa A
Published: August 2020

Pulmonary embolism is a common and potentially fatal cardiovascular disorder that must be promptly diagnosed and treated. The diagnosis, risk assessment, and management of pulmonary embolism have evolved with a better understanding of efficient use of diagnostic and therapeutic options. The use of either clinical probability adjusted or age adjusted D-dimer interpretation has led to a reduction in diagnostic imaging to exclude pulmonary embolism. Direct oral anticoagulation therapies are safe, effective, and convenient treatments for most patients with acute venous thromboembolism, with a lower risk of bleeding than vitamin K antagonists. These oral therapeutic options have opened up opportunities for safe outpatient management of pulmonary embolism in selected patients. Recent clinical trials exploring the use of systemic thrombolysis in intermediate to high risk pulmonary embolism suggest that this therapy should be reserved for patients with evidence of hemodynamic compromise. The role of low dose systemic or catheter directed thrombolysis in other patient subgroups is uncertain. After a diagnosis of pulmonary embolism, all patients should be assessed for risk of recurrent venous thromboembolism to guide duration of anticoagulation. Patients with a venous thromboembolism associated with a strong, transient, provoking risk factor can safely discontinue anticoagulation after three months of treatment. Patients with an ongoing strong risk factor, such as cancer, or unprovoked events are at increased risk of recurrent events and should be considered for extended treatment. The use of a risk prediction score can help to identify patients with unprovoked venous thromboembolism who can benefit from extended duration therapy. Despite major advances in the management of pulmonary embolism, up to half of patients report chronic functional limitations. Such patients should be screened for chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension, but only a small proportion will have this as the explanation of their symptoms. In the remaining patients, future studies are needed to understand the pathophysiology and explore interventions to improve quality of life.
Virucidal benefits of povidone-iodine use on the ocular surface: a review
Authors: Edington Magdalena , Ramaesh Kanna , Lockington David
Published: August 2020

Povidone-iodine (PVI) preparations are well known for their microbicidal effect. In ophthalmology, PVI is commonly used to sterilise the ocular surface prior to surgical procedures. It is also used uncommonly as treatment for adenoviral conjunctivitis, yet the virucidal benefits of PVI have not been clearly documented in existing clinical management guidelines for ocular surface conditions. The COVID-19 pandemic, caused by the novel severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) virus, has challenged traditional healthcare systems. The morbidity and mortality of this highly contagious disease have resulted in fatalities among healthcare workers, including ophthalmologists. The SARS-CoV-2 virus has been identified on conjunctival testing, a potential source of contagious infection which may be unrecognised in asymptomatic carriers. Concern has been raised that ocular procedures may be ‘aerosol-generating’ and the additional wearing of personal protective equipment has been recommended to protect operating theatre staff. This literature review demonstrates that PVI has a broad virucidal activity, including against coronaviruses. It is already used perioperatively as standard of ophthalmic care and has been shown clinically to be effective against adenoviruses on the ocular surface. The current surgical practice of application of 5%–10% PVI applied periocularly for 3 min seems to provide an adequate effective reduction in the patient’s ocular surface viral load. The virucidal benefits of routine PVI use should be included in ophthalmology guidelines regarding safe ocular surgery protocols.
Prospective study of 5-day challenge with penicillins in children
Authors: Petersen Birgitte Tusgaard , Gradman Josefine
Published: August 2020

Objectives

To examine if a 5-day challenge with penicillin improves the diagnostic sensitivity compared with a single full dose in children with mild skin reactions.

Design

Subjects referred with suspected allergy to penicillin were consecutively included. Irrespectively of the morphology of the index reaction and the result of specific IgE, all subjects underwent a two-step titrated drug provocation test (DPT) with the culprit drug followed by a 5-day challenge at home.

Participants

Children and adolescents aged 0–18 years referred to allergic workup for penicillin hypersensitivity at two paediatric Danish centres. Only subjects with non-severe skin reactions were included.

Results

A total of 305 subjects were included and 22 (7%) of the DPTs were positive. Three subjects reacted within 1 hour of the first full dose and nine reacted 1–8 hours after the first full dose. Additional 10 positive reactions were observed during the prolonged provocation. Seven subjects reacted after the second full dose and three reacted after 3–6 days. Only mild skin rashes were observed. Eighteen subjects had a specific IgE to a penicillin >0.1 kU/L. Only one of these had a positive DPT.

Conclusion

In children, a DPT with penicillins should include at least two full doses. In children with mild hypersensitivity reactions it may be safe to perform DPTs despite a low specific IgE.

Trial registration number

NCT04331522
Effectiveness of isometric exercise in the management of tendinopathy: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised trials
Authors: Clifford Christopher , Challoumas Dimitris , Paul Lorna , Syme Grant , Millar Neal L
Published: August 2020

Objective

To systematically review and critically appraise the literature on the effectiveness of isometric exercise in comparison with other treatment strategies or no treatment in tendinopathy.

Design

A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials.

Data sources

Electronic searches of Medline, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature, EMBASE and Cochrane were undertaken from inception to May 2020.

Methods

Overall quality of each study was determined based on a combined assessment of internal validity, external validity and precision. For each outcome measure, level of evidence was rated based on the system by van Tulderet al.

Results

Ten studies were identified and included in the review, including participants with patellar (n=4), rotator cuff (n=2), lateral elbow (n=2), Achilles (n=1) and gluteal (n=1) tendinopathies. Three were of good and seven were of poor overall quality. Based on limited evidence (level 3), isometric exercise was not superior to isotonic exercise for chronic tendinopathy either immediately following treatment or in the short term (≤12 weeks) for any of the investigated outcome measures. Additionally, for acute rotator cuff tendinopathy, isometric exercise appears to be no more effective than ice therapy in the short term (limited evidence; level 3).

Isometric exercise does not appear to be superior to isotonic exercise in the management of chronic tendinopathy. The response to isometric exercise is variable both within and across tendinopathy populations. Isometric exercise can be used as part of a progressive loading programme as it may be beneficial for selected individuals.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42019147179.
Canadian Doctors for Protection from Guns: how physicians contributed to policy change
Authors: Ng-Kamstra Joshua S , Lajoie Jason
Published: August 2020

Physicians played a key role in advancing Canada"s recent assault weapons ban. Indeed, after announcing the ban in May 2020, the Trudeau government thanked Dr. Najma Ahmed and the group Canadian Doctors for Protection from Guns (CDPG) for their support of responsible gun control measures. In this piece, we explore the context in which CDPG was formed, the strategies used by the group in building nationwide support for gun control measures, and the public health framing of their messaging that proved critical in engendering political change. The work of CDPG holds valuable lessons for physicians seeking to engage in political advocacy by bearing witness to the harms experienced by their patients.
Observational study of the association between diverse licensed premises types and alcohol-related violence in an inner-London borough
Authors: Boshari Talia , Sharpe Carolyn A , Poots Alan J , Watt Hillary , Rahman Saifur , Pinder Richard J
Published: August 2020

Background

An ecological correlation has been observed between licensed premises and alcohol-related violence (ARV). In the UK to date, no evidence directly connects alcohol-related harm to a single premises type. Recent policies have called for a diversified alcohol offer, yet quantitative evidence in support remains sparse. This study aims to inform policy by determining whether diversification of the alcohol economy is desirable and to inform the licensing process and submission of public health evidence.

Methods

Using 11 years of local licensing data from the London Borough of Southwark, alcohol availability over time was approximated by the number of extant alcohol licences, categorised by outlet type: drinking establishments, eateries, takeaways, off-sales and ‘other’. Harm was quantified drawing on law enforcement intelligence that recorded ARV. A linked data set was analysed using negative binomial regression, contrasting cumulative impact zones (CIZ)—a common alcohol control policy—with non-CIZ geographies.

Results

Each licensed drinking establishment was associated with a 1.6% (95% CI 0.7% to 2.6%; p=0.001) increase in ARV, respectively. ‘Other’ outlets had a protective effect and were associated with a 1.8% (95% CI 1.0% to 2.5%; p<0.001) decrease in ARV.

Conclusion

This study provides direct evidence for an association between alcohol-related harm and licensed premises. The varying associations between outlet type and ARV provide local public health stakeholders with an evidence base upon which to advocate for licensing policies that diversify alcohol availability.
PD-1 does not mark tumor-infiltrating CD8+ T cell dysfunction in human gastric cancer
Authors: Shen Yang , Teng Yongsheng , Lv Yipin , Zhao Yongliang , Qiu Yuan , Chen Weisan , Wang Lina , Wang Ying , Mao Fangyuan , Cheng Ping , Ma Daiyuan , Zhuang Yuan , Zou Quanming , Peng Liusheng
Published: August 2020

Background

Overexpression of programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1) is linked to CD8+ T cell dysfunction and contributes to tumor immune escape. However, the prevalence and functional regulations of PD-1 expression on CD8+ T cells in human gastric cancer (GC) remain largely unknown.

Methods

Flow cytometry was performed to analyze the level, phenotype, functional and clinical relevance of PD-1+CD8+ T cells in GC patients. Peripheral blood CD8+ T cells were purified and subsequently exposed to culture supernatants from digested primary GC tumor tissues (TSN) in vitro for PD-1 expression and functional assays. Tumor responses to adoptively transferred TSN-stimulated CD8+ T cells or to the TSN-stimulated CD8+ T cell transfer combined with an anti-PD-1 antibody injection were measured in an in vivo xenograft mouse model.

Results

GC patients’ tumors showed a significantly increased PD-1+CD8+ T cell infiltration. However, these GC-infiltrating PD-1+CD8+ T cells showed equivalent function to their PD-1−CD8+ counterparts and they did not predict tumor progression. High level of transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) in tumors was positively correlated with PD-1+CD8+ T cell infiltration, and in vitro GC-derived TGF-β1 induced PD-1 expression on CD8+ T cells via Smad3 signaling, whereas Smad2 signaling was involved in GC-derived TGF-β1-mediated CD8+ T cell dysfunction. Furthermore, GC-derived TGF-β1-mediated CD8+ T cell dysfunction contributed to tumor growth in vivo that could not be attenuated by PD-1 blockade.

Conclusions

Our data highlight that GC-derived TGF-β1 promotes PD-1 independent CD8+ T cell dysfunction. Therefore, restoring CD8+ T cell function by a combinational PD-1 and TGF-β1 blockade might benefit future GC immunotherapy.
Macrophage-derived exosomes attenuate fibrosis in airway epithelial cells through delivery of antifibrotic miR-142-3p
Authors: Guiot Julien , Cambier Maureen , Boeckx Amandine , Henket Monique , Nivelles Olivier , Gester Fanny , Louis Edouard , Malaise Michel , Dequiedt Franck , Louis Renaud , Struman Ingrid , Njock Makon-Sébastien
Published: August 2020

Introduction

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a progressive fibrosing interstitial lung disease of unknown aetiology and cure. Recent studies have reported a dysregulation of exosomal microRNAs (miRs) in the IPF context. However, the impact of IPF-related exosomal miRs on the progression of pulmonary fibrosis is unknown.

Methods

Two independent cohorts were enrolled at the ambulatory care polyclinic of Liège University. Exosomes from sputum were obtained from 19 patients with IPF and 23 healthy subjects (HSs) (cohort 1), and the ones from plasma derived from 14 patients with IPF and 14 HSs (cohort 2). Exosomal miR expression was performed by quantitative reverse transcription–PCR. The functional role of exosomal miRs was assessed in vitro by transfecting miR mimics in human alveolar epithelial cells and lung fibroblasts.

Results

Exosomal miR analysis showed that miR-142-3p was significantly upregulated in sputum and plasma of patients with IPF (8.06-fold, p<0.0001; 1.64 fold, p=0.008, respectively). Correlation analysis revealed a positive association between exosomal miR-142-3p and the percentage of macrophages from sputum of patients with IPF (r=0.576, p=0.012), suggesting macrophage origin of exosomal miR-142-3p upregulation. The overexpression of miR-142-3p in alveolar epithelial cells and lung fibroblasts was able to reduce the expression of transforming growth factor β receptor 1 (TGFβ-R1) and profibrotic genes. Furthermore, exosomes isolated from macrophages present antifibrotic properties due in part to the repression of TGFβ-R1 by miR-142-3p transfer in target cells.

Discussion

Our results suggest that macrophage-derived exosomes may fight against pulmonary fibrosis progression via the delivery of antifibrotic miR-142–3 p to alveolar epithelial cells and lung fibroblasts.
Structural transformation and electronic properties of 2-Methyl-2H-naphtho[1,8-de]triazine under hydrostatic compression
Authors: Chen Limin , Zhang Yanbin , Zhang Kun , Huang Xin , Li Jun , Xie Qiyun
Published: August 2020

In this work, the structural, electronic and absorption properties of 2-methyl-2H-naphtho-[1,8-de]triazine in the pressure ranges of 0–250[Formula: see text]GPa are studied in detail (hereinafter referred to as 2-methyl crystal). Density functional theory (DFT) is used to calculate the lattice constants, bond lengths and bond angles of 2-methyl under different pressures. The results show that the crystals undergo complex transformations under compression, and the major structural transformations occur at pressures of 90[Formula: see text]GPa and 210[Formula: see text]GPa with repeated formations and disconnections. In addition, the [Formula: see text]- and [Formula: see text]-directions of the 2-methyl are stiffer than the [Formula: see text]-direction, which indicates that the compressibility of the crystal is anisotropic. From the specific analysis of the bandgaps of 2-methyl, we can know that the crystal is converted from semiconductor to metal at 90[Formula: see text]GPa. The absorption spectrum of the crystal also indicates that 2-methyl has a relatively high optical activity with the increasing pressure.
Controllability of Boolean networks with intermittent disturbances
Authors: You Tao , Zhang Hailun , Yang Mingyu , Wang Xiao , Guo Yangming
Published: August 2020

In biological systems, gene expression is an important subject. In order to clarify the specific process of gene expression, mathematical tools are needed to simulate the process. The Boolean network (BN) is a good mathematical tool. In this paper, we study a Boolean network with intermittent perturbations. This is of great significance for studying genetic mutations in bioengineering. The expression of genes in the internal system of a living being is a very complicated process, and it is clear that the process is trans-ageal for humans. Through the intermittent control and pulse control of the BN, we can obtain the trajectory of gene expression better and faster, which will provide a very important theoretical basis for our next research.
Transfer phenomenon of charge carriers in crystals of Ca(Al0.1Ga0.9)2S4:Eu2+
Authors: Hadjieva G. S. , Taghiyev K. O. , Asadov E. G. , Kazimova F. A. , Ibragimova T. Sh. , Taghiyev O. B.
Published: August 2020

Research study of volt-amperage properties (VAP) of [Formula: see text] crystals determined the mechanism of current flow though the studied samples and this mechanism is based on barrier Schottky emission and emission of Franklin–Paul. The dielectric constant of the material, height of the potential barrier on metal–semiconductor border, concentration of the traps and the effective mass of electrons are calculated.
Fuzzy Logic-Based Handover Requirement Analysis and Access Network Selection for Device-to-Device Communication
Authors: Subramani Meenakshi , Kumaravelu Vinoth Babu , Murugadass Arthi
Published: August 2020

In order to address the exponential growth of data traffic, the concept of device-to-device (D2D) communication has been introduced in fifth generation (5G). The seamless handover to the finest available access network is very essential in furnishing high quality of experience (QoE) to the devices involved in D2D communication. An intelligent, fast and reliable vertical handover (VHO) decision scheme is required for D2D to achieve seamless mobility and uninterrupted service. To address these issues, a two-stage fuzzy logic-based VHO scheme is proposed in this work. Here, fuzzy logic-based handover requirement analysis (HRA) is carried out in stage 1 based on received signal strength (RSS), data rate (DR) and latency (LA). This stage minimizes the unnecessary handovers. In stage 2, fuzzy-analytic hierarchy process (Fuzzy-AHP), fuzzy-technique for order preference by similarity to ideal solutions (Fuzzy-TOPSIS) are used in ranking and selecting the target access network. Through simulations, it has been proved that the proposed scheme offers improved performance than the classical and fuzzy-based multi-attribute decision-making (MADM) schemes. The proposed scheme offers 3.45[Formula: see text], 7.33[Formula: see text], 13.51[Formula: see text], 40[Formula: see text] minimum improvement in data rate, handover decision delay, handover blocking probability and number of handovers executed over the classical MADM schemes considered.
Low Power Structure Digital Up Converter Design for Software Radio System
Authors: Feng Zhongxiu , Yao Yafeng , Gao Di
Published: August 2020

The numerically controlled oscillator is often supposed to operate after interpolation in a conventional digital up converter, but such a converter works at quite high frequencies and consumes more power. In this paper, a type of low power structure digital up converter is proposed which carries out mixing and interpolating gradually, where the numerically controlled oscillator and the interpolation filter can both work at a lower frequency. Low power structure can move signal to any position within the whole Nyquist Band. Furthermore, the interpolation filter adopts a half-band filter with the structure of two parallel branches, which combines the functions of stuffing zero, filtering and modulation, and makes programmable modulation by exchanging input paths. A simulation is carried out on the Xilinx KC705 development kit, which indicates that its maximum work frequency of the low power structure reaches 392[Formula: see text]MHz while its power consumption reduces by 33.3% compared to the conventional structure.
Beyond Einstein’s General Relativity: Hybrid metric-Palatini gravity and curvature-matter couplings
Authors: Harko Tiberiu , Lobo Francisco S. N.
Published: August 2020

Einstein’s General Relativity (GR) is possibly one of the greatest intellectual achievements ever conceived by the human mind. In fact, over the last century, GR has proven to be an extremely successful theory, with a well established experimental footing, at least for weak gravitational fields. Its predictions range from the existence of black holes and gravitational radiation (now confirmed) to the cosmological models. Indeed, a central theme in modern Cosmology is the perplexing fact that the Universe is undergoing an accelerating expansion, which represents a new imbalance in the governing gravitational equations. The cause of the late-time cosmic acceleration remains an open and tantalizing question, and has forced theorists and experimentalists to question whether GR is the correct relativistic theory of gravitation. This has spurred much research in modified theories of gravity, where extensions of the Hilbert–Einstein action describe the gravitational field, in particular, [Formula: see text] gravity, where [Formula: see text] is the curvature scalar. In this review, we perform a detailed theoretical and phenomenological analysis of specific modified theories of gravity and investigate their astrophysical and cosmological applications. We present essentially two largely explored extensions of [Formula: see text] gravity, namely: (i) the hybrid metric-Palatini theory; (ii) and modified gravity with curvature-matter couplings. Relative to the former, it has been established that both metric and Palatini versions of [Formula: see text] gravity possess interesting features but also manifest severe drawbacks. A hybrid combination, containing elements from both of these formalisms, turns out to be very successful in accounting for the observed phenomenology and avoids some drawbacks of the original approaches. Relative to the curvature-matter coupling theories, these offer interesting extensions of [Formula: see text] gravity, where the explicit nonminimal couplings between an arbitrary function of the scalar curvature [Formula: see text] and the Lagrangian density of matter, induces a nonvanishing covariant derivative of the energy-momentum tensor, which implies nongeodesic motion and consequently leads to the appearance of an extra force. We extensively explore both theories in a plethora of applications, namely, the weak-field limit, galactic and extragalactic dynamics, cosmology, stellar-type compact objects, irreversible matter creation processes and the quantum cosmology of a specific curvature-matter coupling theory.
Magnetized cosmological model with variable deceleration parameter
Authors: Tarai Sankarsan , Esmaeili Fakhereh Md. , Mishra B. , Tripathy S. K.
Published: August 2020

In this paper, we have derived the field equations in an extended theory of gravity in an anisotropic spacetime background and in the presence of magnetic field. The physical and geometrical parameters of the models are determined with respect to the Hubble parameter using some algebraic approaches. A time varying scale factor has been introduced to analyze the behavior of the model. From some diagnostic approach, we found that the model behaves as [Formula: see text] model at late time of cosmic evolution.
Whin Sill contact metamorphism in the Cow Green reservoir boreholes, Northern England: evidence for an Upper Teesdale source for the Whin Sill magma
Authors: Robinson Douglas
Published: August 2020

Contact metamorphism of Carboniferous rocks by the Whin Sill in Upper Teesdale is documented utilizing boreholes drilled in the 1960s ground investigation for the Cow Green reservoir. Hedenbergite, prehnite and datolite are recorded for the first time, and the first analyses for seven contact minerals are presented. Pure limestones are recrystallized into saccharoidal marbles with average calcite grain sizes increasing from <0.1 mm at >20 m from the contact, up to 0.5 mm within 5 m from the contact. Grossular is the most abundant mineral, and along with epidote is recorded over 20 m from the sill contact; all other minerals are restricted to <
c
. 10 m from the contact. This substantial contact metamorphism around Cow Green is unique in comparison with other boreholes across the Alston Block that have penetrated even thicker leaves of the sill, and for which no contact metamorphic mineral development has been reported. The currently favoured model has the magma sourced from dykes on the southern and northern borders of the Alston Block, but the evidence in support is circumstantial. The contrast in the metamorphic development is definitive evidence that the heat flow linked to the Whin Sill intrusion in the Upper Teesdale area lasted much longer than other areas across the Block, giving strong support to the magma being sourced in this area, rather than from the dykes.

Supplementary material:
X-ray fluorescence whole rock Sr (ppm) analyses of limestone beds in boreholes 17, 18, 21, 22, 35, 39, 40 and 41 in
Table S1
, and Electron MicroProbe Analysis of garnet, feldspar, epidote, idocrase, prehnite, pyroxene and chlorite in
Table S2
are available at:
https://doi.org/10.6084/m9.figshare.c.5077640
Multiproxy strategy for determining palaeoclimate parameters in the Ruby Ranch Member of the Cedar Mountain Formation
Authors: Suarez M. B. , Knight J. A. , Godet A. , Ludvigson G. A. , Snell K. E. , Murphy L. , Kirkland J. I.
Published: August 2020

A multiproxy approach for evaluating palaeoclimate parameters in deep-time can result in improvements to inter-related factors affecting palaeohydrology. Here we utilize diverse geochemical tools to improve palaeoclimate estimates for the Cedar Mountain Formation (CMF). Prior research utilized stable carbon and oxygen isotopes to develop chemostratigraphic correlations to the late Aptian–early Albian, hypothesized aridity during a positive carbon isotope excursion (CIE) and estimated
p
CO
2
through this event. This study refines estimates using petrographical analyses, bulk geochemical proxies for mean annual precipitation (MAP) and clumped isotope palaeothermometry. MAP rates range from 736 to 1042 mm a
−1
with a slight decrease during the hypothesized aridity event. We interpret warm-biased temperatures (with an average of 32.9°C) that do not vary significantly through the study section. Carbonate nodules are likely to have precipitated in highly evaporative conditions as indicated by the presence of dolomite. Utilizing a simple Rayleigh fractionation model and two estimates of
δ
18
O of water, we suggest that evaporation of 2–57% is necessary to result in an enriched end member
δ
18
O
w
. These data suggest that an increase in aridity is a result of lower MAP rates and greater evaporation during seasonal extremes. Lastly, revised
p
CO
2
calculations suggest overestimates but indicate a shift towards greater concentrations during the positive CIE.
Photoemission Spectroscopy Study on Hydrogen Termination Effect on SiO2/Si Structure Fabricated Using H+-Implanted Si Substrate
Authors: Suzuki Akihiro , Takahashi Kazutoshi , Okuyama Ryosuke , Kadono Takeshi , Kobayashi Koji , Hirose Ryo , Onaka-Masada Ayumi , Koga Yoshihiro , Kurita Kazunari
Published: August 2020

Using proton (H+)-implanted silicon (Si) substrates, we clarified the effect of dangling bond termination by hydrogen on the interfacial strain in the silicon dioxide (SiO2)/Si system. The variations of the SiO2/Si interface structure caused by H+ implantation into a SiO2/Si sample and by hydrogen out-diffusion heat treatment were analyzed by high-resolution synchrotron radiation photoemission spectroscopy. We found that H+ implantation into the SiO2/Si sample [intentional generation of the interfacial dangling bonds] can increase the intensity of the strained-Si peaks in the Si 2p photoemission spectrum. In addition, our study revealed that the strained Si atom amount and dangling bond density are reduced by hydrogen out-diffusion heat treatment. These findings suggest that the increase/decrease in the dangling bond density by H atoms results in the increase/decrease in local strain field around a dangling bond, thereby changing the length of the Si–Si bonds beneath the SiO2/Si interface. Out-diffused hydrogen seems to play roles to not only reduce the dangling bond density but also relax the local strain at the SiO2/Si interface. The hydrogen termination effect is expected to have an advantage in structural stability in the SiO2/Si system as compared with the pure thermal termination effect.
Based on M-Copula Reliability Analysis of Random Load Correlation
Authors: Bin Huang , Mingdong Yan , Xiaogang Liu , Mao Xiao
Published: August 2020

Load is one of the main causes of structural failure, and the correlation among loads would affect the evaluation results of structural performance. The purpose of this paper is to analyze the influence of the correlation among multiple loads on the structural reliability. In this paper, the nonparametric kernel density estimation (NKDE) method is used to estimate the probability density function (PDF) of related loads. In addition, the mixed copula (M-Copula) model is proposed, which combines Gumbel copula, Frank copula, Clayton copula, and weight coefficient, and the model parameters are fitted by MATLAB software to get the correlation of related loads. The reliability based on the related load combination is calculated according to the constructed model. After analyzing three numerical cases, the results show that the probability characteristics of NKDE estimation are very close to the actual conditions, and the reliability calculated by the M-Copula model is larger than those calculated by JCSS, Turkstra, and Gong methods. Using the M-Copula model for load correlation would avoid underestimating the reliability of the structure, which is conducive to structural economic development.